Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 25-08-2023

$170B required for housing advancements

- President Ali announces; says funds will be invested to address development needs, growing demand - $400 billion will be needed to enhance highways, road networks to match increase in housing

Guyana records significant performances for CSEC, CAPE ‘Reparative justice must go beyond apologies’

- President Ali declares; says Gladstone descendants must outline plan of action

Berbice communities to be revitalised with re-opening of Rose Hall Estate

Granger’s extension of exploration licences had consequences

- Dr. Jagdeo reveals

The Government of Guyana has made significant investments over the past three years to improve access to education across the country

By Naomi Parris

THERE are currently 57,000 applications for house lots across the country and in order for the Government of Guyana to meet the demands for housing, a massive $170 billion will be needed.

This was according to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, at the opening ceremony for the 2023 International Building Expo at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Thursday.

The Head of State told the gathering of both patrons and participants that the government will make the necessary investments.

“They have 57,000 active applications in the system that must be processed now, and I want the population to have an appreciation for this,” Ali said, adding: “In Regions Three, Four and Six, because of the volume of applications, they are now processing applications up to 2019 as I speak to you. In the other regions, applications are more or less processed in real-time.”

Over the next three years,

- President Ali announces; says funds will be invested to address development needs, growing demand

-

$170B required for housing advancements

to enhance highways, road networks to match increase in housing

the government intends to embark on an aggressive plan to dent this backlog, opening new lands and constructing more homes.

“Our plan in the next three years is to develop 14,000 new house lots in Region Three; 1,000 new homes and 1,000 new lots in Region 10; 1,000 new lots in Region Seven; 4,000 new lots in Region Six; 1,000 lots in Region Five; 20,000 in Region Four; 250 in Region One; and 1,000 each in Regions Two and Nine…. we are committing ourselves to building 500 homes in the hinterland,” the President said.

This, according to Dr. Ali, will see the government being able to develop 43,000 house lots which will be able to address the 57,000 pending applicants.

To complement this rapid development, another $400 billion will be needed to enhance highways and road networks to match the massive housing increase.

“We will have to develop 200 kilometres of new four lane highway, 200 kilometers of new four-lane highway and that is in the medium

term…that is about $400 billion in this one project alone,” Dr. Ali said, adding: “I wanted us to have a full and comprehensive understanding of the scale and the magnitude of work required to advance the housing programme to ensure that applicants are satisfied.”

The President said that the housing demand in Guyana has increased significantly, as the government is also providing shelter for migrants.

“We’ve already set aside $500 million in supplementary to build proper shelter for those migrants who are squatting on sea defences and other places. So, the scale of what you're talking about is enormous,” the Head of State underscored.

COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL NEEDS

Aside from satisfying the residential demands in the country, there is also a massive commercial and industrial sector demand.

“The reality is that we don’t have enough land available in the system now to service the demand for commercial and industrial lots,” Dr. Ali admitted.

He, however, urged citizens and investors alike to be patient with the government as it looks to develop new areas.

“I believe in explaining the circumstances to the people, I believe and letting you know the truth so that you will understand the constraints…It will take some more time. It will take some more time for us to open up new lands [and] new opportunities,” Dr. Ali said.

Meanwhile, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, disclosed that the ministry has been able to distribute

over 24,000 house lots over the past three years

“We promised to reduce the housing deficit by setting ourselves an ambitious target of allocating a total of 50,000 lots in five years. Within that promise was a commitment to explore new and innovative housing options, and provide access to finance for a lot, especially the poor and vulnerable,” Croal said.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, further said that another 2,000 house lots will be distributed to citizens during the exhibition.

The first-ever International Building Expo was held in 2010 and was a brainchild of then Housing Minister Irfaan Ali, who is now President of Guyana.

This year’s event features more than 400 exhibitors from prominent businesses representing a diverse array of construction-related industries, insurance firms and banking entities.

Held under the theme “Building for All, One Guyana, Many Opportunities,” the expo will conclude on August 27.

$400 billion will be needed

This year’s International Building Expo features more than 400 exhibitors from prominent businesses representing a diverse array of construction-related industries, insurance firms and banking entities (Adrian Narine and DPI photos)

Sleepless nights, strict study routine led to good results - CSEC outstanding performers say

By Indrawattie Natram

SLEEPLESS nights and early morning studying were major contributing factors in the success of some of the country’s outstanding performers at the 2023 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

Following the announcement of the preliminary results at the Anna Regina Secondary School in Region Two, those who were present at the ceremony related that they had made many sacrifices and were happy that they excelled at the examinations.

This year, Anna Regina Secondary School student, Alex Muntaz secured the most Grade Ones for Guyana.

This is the second consecutive year that his school

produced such an outstanding performance.

According to the preliminary results, Muntaz, 17, secured 23 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos.

He told this publication that he was happy that he has made his region and the country proud.

For him, writing 27 subjects was a “wild ride” but nevertheless he pushed on and wrote them.

The teen recalled that he had sleepless nights in the lead up to the examinations and said that his quest for success called for balance in his life.

He thanked his school and lessons teachers for the role they played in his success and his supportive friends and family who gave him the kind of encouragement he needed.

He plans to pursue a

career in medicine or engineering.

His parents, who own the “Baby Doll” store said they were very proud of their son.

They told this publication that he was a child that has always excelled. He was also a top performer for the region when he wrote the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

Meanwhile, Virendra Dookie of Swarswatti Vidhya Niketan secured 19 Grade Ones and one Grade Two.

Dookie was the country’s top NGSA performer in 2018 and the best letter writer for the national examination.

During an interview with this publication, Dookie said he was very happy with his success and he used the opportunity to thank all the teachers and his parents for their support.

Suriya Walcott, of Queenstown Village and a student of the Anna Regina Secondary school has

also made her parents very proud.

Walcott secured 18 Grade Ones and five Grade Twos. She is an aspiring lawyer and her parents John and Oneka Walcott said they were elated that she has done so well.

Walcott said it was not an easy task but she was determined to succeed given the support she was getting.

Making Abram Zuil Secondary School proud was Kuntie Singh. She secured 18 Grade Ones and five Grade Twos.

Although she was in the business stream, she said she is unsure about her career path but is hoping to get a scholarship to further her studies. Singh said that she devoted her time to doing well and making her school proud.

Murizio Mangra of the Anna Regina Secondary secured 17 Grade Ones and 10 Grade Twos.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that he was very

happy with his performance, adding that CSEC was just a stepping stone for him.

Mangra encouraged other CSEC students to stay focused and to try their best to excel.

Among the other students who performed well are Queen’s College students Arthur Roberts who secured 17 Grade Ones and five Grade Twos; Naila Rahaman who has 17 Grade Ones and two Grade Twos; Tahsme Ganesh who has 17 Grade Ones and three Grade Twos; Noah Aryan Persaud who secured 17 Grade Ones and three Grade Twos and Susanna Khemraj who secured 16 Grade Ones and two Grade Twos.

CONTINUOUS INVESTMENTS

Regional Education Officer, Shondelle Hercules said the children’s achievements are a testimony of the investments that the government is making in the education sector.

She said that the day was one set aside to celebrate the students’ academic milestone.

While pointing out that last year the preliminary results were announced at the same venue, she used the opportunity to thank the teachers and students for their dedication and commitment which ensured that excellent results were achieved.

Education Minister Priya Manickhand in her remarks pointed out that a third of teachers are untrained.

“So it’s not as though you have 100 per cent trained teachers but I also want you to know that all of those are currently in

training because we made the facilities so that people across the country, wherever they live, could train and so our aim is that by 2025 we will have 100 per cent of our teachers trained or in training, something that we have never been able to do yet in the country,” she said.

The minister added that other schools across the country have also performed well, before explaining that the results were not final.

“I want to reiterate what the CEO said… CXC dubs these preliminary result; they are not final results for a reason. Every student is afforded the opportunity for a fee of course, to review their grade. If they are unhappy with it, a process happens that has that grade reviewed and it can change and that's why these are preliminary results,” she explained.

The minister went on to explain that CXC uses a criteria which will determine who are top students.

“For example, they require the top student to have at least a foreign language and so you can have someone with 20 Grade Ones and a Grade Two in the foreign language and you can have someone with 19 Ones but with a higher score in their foreign language…So they have different eligibility criteria and I don't have the jurisdiction to announce here top students for the country or for the region,” she said.

The minister encouraged the students to continue to make their communities, teachers and relatives proud.

‘Reparative

justice must go beyond apologies’

- President Ali declares; says Gladstone descendants must outline plan of action

REPARATIVE justice

must go beyond apologies, and descendants of those responsible must be willing to right the wrongs of the African slave trade and indentureship in the Caribbean, according to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali.

The Head of State, during a live broadcast on Thursday, said: “In recent years, the demands for reparations for African enslavement and indentureship have intensified. The call for reparations is not intended to promote or leverage shame or guilt over the slave trade and slavery. It is not extortion, instead, the demand for reparations is a commitment to righting historical wrongs.”

The family members of John Gladstone, a former slave owner, will today apologise for the actions of their ancestors.

The descendants of

Gladstone recently arrived in Guyana to participate in the launch of the International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies (MiDias) at the University of Guyana (UG).

According to Dr. Ali, the apology represents an acknowledgement of the cruel nature of African enslavement and indentureship in Guyana. It is an act of contrition that paves the way for justice, he said.

“Millions of Africans endured unspeakable horrors — displacement, captivity, extreme and brutal physical and sexual violence and the severing of family ties. They were treated as chattel, their labour extracted under the harshest conditions. They dehumanised slaves by taking away their culture, religion and even their names,” the President said.

According to Dr. Ali, call for reparations is an essential response to right

the historical wrong and mitigate the enduring legacy of slavery.

“The heinousness of this crime against humanity demands that we seek to right these wrongs. Yet, we face a push-back when it comes to recompense for this crime – something that does not accord with the fundamental underpinnings of justice,” he said.

The Caribbean Reparations Committee's tenpoint plan for reparations offers a roadmap toward dismantling the barriers that persist.

The ten point plan outlines, inter alia, for an unconditional apology and investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and cultural revitalisation.

“While acknowledging the historical atrocities of slavery and offering an apology is undeniably significant, it constitutes just the initial step on the path towards achieving

comprehensive reparative justice for African enslavement,” he said adding: “An acknowledgement and apology serve as a moral reckoning, validating the pain and suffering inflicted on generations past. However, the multifaceted legacy of slavery extends far beyond the confines of historical memory.”

The descendants of Gladstone, he said, must now also outline their plan

Businessman in custody following alleged murder of Bartica man

POLICE are investigating the death of 40-year-old Mark Braithwaite of Four Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

According to a police report, Braithwaite was allegedly murdered at a Blast Gaming Centre at Second Avenue, Bartica, on Wednesday.

Reports are that the 40-year-old was a customer at the gaming centre owned and operated by a 63-year-old

businessman, who is the father of the 34-year-old suspect.

On the day in question, the suspect was left in charge of the gaming centre while Braithwaite, a regular customer, was playing at one of the slot machines.

The suspect and Braithwaite had a misunderstanding over alcohol spilling on the countertop, and, during the argument, the suspect scolded Braithwaite for what he did.

Braithwaite reportedly then armed himself with several glass bottles that were nearby and began hurling them at the suspect, who was in the bar behind the counter.

The suspect armed himself with a hammer and went behind Braithwaite, who at the time had made his way to the front of the gaming centre. There, the suspect dealt the victim several blows to his head and face.

Braithwaite fell to the

ground and remained motionless. He was taken to the Bartica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.

The body was examined and blunt wounds were observed to the right jaw area, above the right eye and to the forehead. The body is at the Bartica Hospital's Mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination. The suspect was arrested and is presently in custody.

of action in line with the CARICOM ten-point plan for reparatory justice for slavery and indentureship.

Gladstone, the father of four-time British Prime Minister William Gladstone, owned 2,500 slaves and according to the UK Guardian, was the fifth-largest beneficiary of the £20 million fund (about £16 billion today) set aside by the British government to compensate

planters when the Slavery Abolition Act was passed in 1833.

The paper also reported that in addition to making an official apology for Gladstone’s ownership of Africans, the 21st-century Gladstones have agreed to pay reparations to fund further research into the impact of slavery, through a £100,000 grant to the MiDias.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

Apology to Guyana!

TODAY, Guyanese of all races, creeds and walks of life heartily observe the bicentenary of the Demerara Rebellion of 1823, an important milestone in this nation’s continuing struggle for freedom.

The Demerara Rebellion was in fact a revolution by enslaved Guyanese of African descent, whose forebears had laboured beyond imagination to create the physical conditions for the establishment of the British-owned plantations, and it was followed by John Gladstone’s introduction, 15 years later, of Indentureship, on May 5, 1838.

One year later, four years after Emancipation, former enslaved Africans pooled their resources, remarkably, to purchase plantations up for sale and start the Village Movement that housed many on their own lands across Demerara.

One doesn’t have to have a university degree to know that John Gladstone was the biggest link between Slavery

and Indentureship in Guyana and the Caribbean, from his ownership of enslaved Africans to his landing of the first Indian immigrants in Demerara, also four years after Emancipation, on Arrival Day.

Africans, then freed, concentrated on living free and building their own lives in liberty, while the plantocracy invented Indentureship to guarantee continued free or cheap labour on their sugar estates.

Gladstone was, therefore, the lynchpin between the Slave and Indentureship systems of exploitation, as he ensured the continuity of the availability of exploited human labour to keep the sugar mills running here, and eventually in neighbouring Trinidad & Tobago and across the British West Indies.

The Gladstone family’s apology, to be delivered today, therefore, is not only to the descendants of the enslaved Africans, but equally, and no less so, to the de -

scendants of the indentured Indians who also arrived, like the Africans, to work the plantations and create wealth across Guyana for the European slave masters who benefitted from both the enslavement of Africans and misleading contractual inducement of Indians.

It’s nothing but misleading, therefore, to argue, as some still do here quite loudly, that enslaved Africans “suffered more”, while indentured servants suffered “less pain”.

Bot h Africans and Indians suffered the most extreme degrees of exploitation, far away from home, each paying the same prices in British Guiana in different ways, and all contributing to our continuing struggles for the betterment of all.

Such unequal measurements of human suffering, according to continent of origin, are utterly disrespectful to and a dismissal of the blood, sweat and tears that both enslaved

Africans and indentured Indians suffered in common to keep the plantation economy running on free labour, to guarantee maximum profits for the European enslavers after the abolition of slavery.

The Gladstones are accompanied by the Trevelyans, another English family that owned 1,000 enslaved Africans in Grenada, and in February offered an apology and opened a seed fund with 100,000 British Pounds; and likewise, the Gladstones have publicly apologised for their forebears’ sins of commission during slavery.

Now here to make humble Christian atonement, the Gladstones must be warmly embraced and welcomed by all Guyanese, irrespective of race, religion or culture, because what these Heirs of Slavery are doing is absolutely commendable, and ought to be encouraged, and not politicised racially or ethnically.

The Gladstone Apology

has to be seen as part of the family’s atonement which comes with two sets of cash contributions, one to a UG project and the other to a related legacy project, adding-up to 160,000 Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.

But the apology and cash are all part of the Heirs of Slavery’s indication of a willingness to pay penance for their fore-parents’ mortal sins, as they share the joint pain of the dual impact of Slavery and Indentureship, and the need for shared, common healing.

This shared pain needs common approaches to healing, and also applies to Guyanese and Caribbean citizens of Indian descent, whose fore-parents also shared the pain of ensuring maximum profits for the enslavers after slavery.

The discussions today will necessarily focus on the 1823 Rebellion, remarkably celebrated by the national monument erected by an earlier PPP-Civic administration, which also

established the Guyana National Reparations Committee (NRC) in 2013, and continues to provide it with an annual budget.

The apology will also, therefore, have to be followed by continuing the conversation about also making a case for Reparations for Guyanese and Caribbean citizens of Indian descent.

Slavery and Native Genocide were the two greatest crimes against humanity ever, but their costs in lives must not be used to try to erase or downgrade the suffering of indentured labourers brought to Guyana and the Caribbean on the same slave ships.

The Gladstone Apology, therefore, is to the entire Guyana population, and should not be seen or treated as a partial recognition of one aspect of the Gladstones’ British Guiana legacy.

It is to all Guyanese, at home and abroad, bar none!

Exchange Rate Stability and the Forex Market

Dear Editor,

DESPITE the relatively large forex earnings from the petroleum sector, the capital account and net services and unrequited transfers continue to record large deficit balances (forex outflows of US$7.6 billion), resulting in a relatively small surplus balance in 2022, which represented 0.9 per cent of GDP (2022). This is one of the factors responsible for the exchange rate stability that prevails.

Of recent, several writers, both locally and regionally

and from within the Guyanese Diaspora have been advancing the argument on whether the Guyanese currency should be revalued. This notion is against the backdrop of the foreign exchange (FOREX) earnings from the country’s oil and gas resources.

More specifically, the Peeping Tom column of the Kaieteur News edition of August 12, 2023, questioned why the exchange rate has not appreciated substantially as yet, given that earnings from the oil resources is

pegged at US$1 billion for this year, and export earnings in 2022 increased from US$1.56 billion in 2018 to US$11.2 billion at the end of 2022.

The author of the Peeping Tom column intimated that the dominant players in the forex market control the exchange rate. This notion, however, is partially correct. The columnist then concluded that it is in the government’s interest to maintain the exchange rate at around the present levels.

In theory, large inflows of

foreign exchange tend to trigger a substantial increase in the exchange rate, especially where there is a floating exchange rate regime. In the case of Guyana, the exchange rate regime can be characterized as a managed float.

A substantial appreciation of the exchange rate would necessitate a change in relative prices; considering that Guyana imports about 80 per cent-90 per cent of consumer, intermediate and capital goods.

This description is precisely what is known as the

“Dutch disease”, a paradox which the government must avoid at all cost. So, when Peeping Tom argued that it is in the government’s interest to maintain the exchange rate at current levels, he is partially correct as well. In fact, it is more so in the country’s interest to maintain a stable exchange rate environment.

A sharp appreciation of the exchange rate can cripple the export/manufacturing sectors at the expense of the importers. In other words, imports will become far cheaper, while export com-

modities will become more expensive, hence, a loss of international competitiveness in global markets.

That said, let’s examine why there is no major appreciation of the exchange despite massive increases in exports on account of the petroleum sector (crude oil export), and the forex earnings to the Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

The answer to this question resides in analysing the sources of inflows and outflows of forex, to derive the

Exchange Rate Stability and the Forex...

net flow of forex, together with the foreign reserve balances of the country, and net foreign assets of the banking sector. This is shown in the balance of payment account summary.

First, it is important to understand that the external trade balance which is a surplus of US$7.65 billion (the difference between exports and imports) at the end of 2022 is an accounting balance. The reason for this distinction is because the

corded as outflow payments in the balance of payment account.

The government’s share is in the form of the 50 per cent profit and two per cent royalty payments. The outflows attributed to the oil and gas sector for cost recovery and other operating expense such as operating lease payments, are recorded in the balance of payment account under the “Net Services and Unrequited Transfers”, in the Current Account.

Therefore, to understand

lion, imports amounted to US$3.624 billion, giving rise to a non-oil trade balance deficit of US$2.179 billion; and the Net Services and Unrequited Transfers recorded a deficit balance of US$3.8 billion, giving rise to a Current Account surplus balance of US$3.8 billion.

The Capital Account recorded a deficit balance of US$3.65 billion, which was offset by the Current Account surplus balance, giving rise to an overall surplus balance of US$121 million. This surplus led to the increase in the foreign reserve held by the Bank of Guyana to US$932 million at the end of 2022, representing three months’ worth of import cover. This is an improvement in the country's foreign reserve over from its 2018-2020 levels which represented less than two months import cover.

net foreign assets stood at US$432 million, giving rise to a total net foreign asset position of US$2.636 billion.

total export earnings include export of crude oil which reflects 100 per cent of the crude oil produced in Guyana. But the country does not earn in actuality, 100 per cent of the forex from crude oil sales.

Notably, 75 per cent of this sum is cost oil, of which local content spend in country for 2022 represents seven per cent of total crude oil exports, and the oil companies’ share of profit would be re-

the fullness of the issue, one has to analyse the balance of payment account of which a summary is presented in the above table.

Second, the government’s share as alluded to above, is deposited into the NRF that is held outside of the country at the Federal Reserve Bank.

As illustrated in the foregoing table, the non-oil exports at the end of 2022 amounted to US$1.445 bil-

The Capital Account registered a net private sector balance, inclusive of foreign direct investment (FDI), of US$3.110 billion recorded as an outflow payment. Of this sum, US$3.053 billion represented payment for the acquisition of the Liza Unity FPSO in 2021. Net remittances for the period amounted to US$22 million, forex inflow from external debt disbursements amounted to US$261 million and outflow for external debt service payments amounted to US$85 million.

Additionally, the NRF balance as of the end of 2022 stood at US$1.272 billion; NRF withdrawal amounted to US$608 million that was transferred to the Consolidated Fund; the net international reserve at the Bank of Guyana stood at US$932 million; the commercial banks

Put simply, this means that despite the relatively large forex earnings from the petroleum sector, the Capital Account and Net Services & Unrequited Transfers continue to record large deficit balances (forex outflows of US$7.6 billion), resulting in a relatively small surplus balance of US$121 million, representing 0.9 per cent of GDP (2022).

This is one of the factors responsible for the exchange rate stability that prevails. The other factors that contribute to the exchange rate stability are attributed to the following:

i) The commercial banks invest between 70 per cent – 90 per cent of their net foreign assets in financial markets abroad,

ii) The Bank of Guyana’s net foreign assets are held outside of the jurisdiction, and

iii) The NRF is also held in an account outside of the jurisdiction.

As such, the domestic

market is not flooded with forex, all of which helps integrally in maintaining a stable exchange rate. And this is far more important for the economy than revaluation of the currency at this time.

The exchange rate has been appreciating―albeit not substantially, but incrementally, as shown in the chart below.

By and large, the average market exchange rate has been stable over the last 15 years, thus enabling macroeconomic stability. During the period 2015-

2020, the exchange rate depreciated by $7.97 or 3.8 per cent. Conversely, for the period 2021-2022, the exchange rate appreciated by almost the same level of 3.8 per cent, thereby reverting to its pre-2015 level. With increasing inflows of forex from the NRF and the oil and gas sector, the exchange rate is projected to appreciate marginally over the medium term. Yours respectfully,

Joel Bhagwandin

Author’s Calculation based on Bank of Guyana Annual Report, 2022

Bank of Guyana Statistical Abstracts

Entitlement theory spelt out in full force

IF there are young people interested in how to carve a united, diverse future for Guyana, then, they need to study the emanation from a senior politician in this country – Vincent Alexander on last Wednesday programme of the Gildarie-Freddie Kissoon Show.

In fact, Mr. Alexander’s offering is so complex and filled with curiosities and uncertainties that it may be a talking point for all politicians in this country. I will summarise briefly what Mr. Alexander adumbrated hoping that I attribute the correct statements to him. This is my interpretation. My interpretation is that Mr. Alexander was arguing for African entitlement, a proposition that is bound to generate counter-narratives. Ravi Dev comes to mind.

Mr. Alexander started out by pointing out that African slaves in Guyana preserved the country’s existence through the slaves’ contribution to the sugar industry. He said life for the emancipated Africans was oppressive because the colonial state made their existence a miserable one through all types of suppressive mechanisms, even using laws to discriminate against the villagers.

He concluded that Af -

rican Guyanese have always been a dispossessed community and the society should recognise the historical disadvantages through entitlement (my word). He went on to argue that African Guyanese need an institutional framework including laws and economics and related instruments, to make them equal to other communities so they can have equal access to the national patrimony. I believe when I was listening to Alexander, he was arguing for African entitlement.

The debate on African entitlement has raged on with Indian rights activists debunking it with their own counter-narrative of the superb contributions of the indentured Indians and their subsequent generation, thus no ethnic community is entitled and should claim the right of entitlement. Immediately after Alexander’s delivery, I asked him a question that always comes to the surface of my mind whenever I hear or read about African entitlement.

I asked if there is a need for an institutional framework to empower Africans, wasn’t such legal, economic and social framework invented by a predominantly African

party led by a hegemonic leader from 1964 to 1985. I referred to the power of Forbes Burnham and his PNC party. Alexander’s answer is worth listening to because it brings into question the very nature of the rule of Burnham.

Alexander agreed that Burnham did generate an institutional framework to address the historical wrongs against African Guyanese but it was not holistic enough. Now here is a huge goldmine for Guyanese academics who study Guyanese politics. What did Alexander mean by Burnham falling short? Alexander did not state why, but the probing question is that, given the limitless power of Burnham then, shouldn’t have Burnham lay the groundwork for African Guyanese future?

Alexander says that African Guyanese are disadvantaged at the moment. But how did they come to lose their cutting edge when Burnham’s control of Guyana was completely and absolutely totalitarian? Alexander must answer that question if he is going to persist with his entitlement demand.

From 1970, Guyana was

a political economy dominated by the ubiquitous reach of President Burnham. When I came back to this country in 1984, I lived at the junction of Louisa Row and Hadfield Street on the border with Wortmanville and Werk-enRust. Just two blocks away was a Portuguese supermarket named J.P Santos. I will never ever forget once we debate contemporary economic history of Guyana what I saw at J.P Santos.

The shelves were empty and all I saw was dried, sweetened Carambola neatly packaged that was manufactured by a state company named Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation. The state

controlled 80 per cent of the economy. Sugar and bauxite were in state hands.

The Sugar Levy extracted a substantial portion of the income of the sugar industry and put it into the treasury to be used by the government. All trade licences had to be approved by the External Trade Bureau. It was almost impossible for Portuguese and Indian commercial stores to get a trade licence.

Now here is my alternative to Alexander’s composition of the urgency of an institutional framework for African entitlement. That empowerment using the legal, social and economic framework that Alexander

yearns for was achieved by the Forbes Burnham government 1968-1985. Burnham acceded to the requests of African Guyanese politicians and historians for the need to redress the historical wrongs the White colonial state did to Africans.

If entitlement which dominated Guyana’s sociology and politics from 1968-1985 has disappeared, then it cannot be argued that it should be resuscitated? Why? Because that is saying that the African community in Guyana is special and should be treated specially. That is unfair to other patriotic ethnic groups.

Police investigating alleged murder of Linden man

KEVIN Surfin, a 40-yearold construction worker, was allegedly murdered at Speightland Village, Lower Kara Kara, Linden, around 17:00 hours, on Thursday.

According to reports, Surfin went to a birthday party at Speightland around 23:45 hours on Wednesday in the company of a 29-yearold woman with whom he had a relationship.

The 29-year-old woman recounted to the police that around 05:00 hrs, she left

Surfin standing with several of her friends, names withheld, to go and purchase cigarettes at the bar.

Upon her return, about five minutes later, she observed a group of about 15 persons, three of whom she identified, assaulting Surfin.

During the altercation, Surfin managed to jump into a nearby creek to avoid his assailants. He eventually came out of the creek, with what appeared to be blood on his body before falling to the ground.

He was subsequently picked up and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead.

Upon examination, a small wound was seen to the region of the man’s heart and a bruise above his left eye.

Surfin’s body is presently at a funeral home, awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are ongoing.

Wakenaam boy secures most Grade Ones at CAPE - preliminary results reveal

By Indrawattie Natram

WHEN Naresh Jagnanan, of Belle Plaine, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), was named the top business student at the 2021 sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations with his 11 Grade Ones, he knew he was destined for great things.

He later relocated to Georgetown to attend Queen’s College to pursue an Associate Degree in Accounting at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) level. He knew that this move would make him eligible for a CXC/ UWI scholarship.

This year, he has once again placed the island of Wakenaam in the limelight, as, according to the 2023 preliminary results, he attained the most Grade Ones for the country at the regional examinations.

It was announced on Thursday that he had secured nine Grade Ones and one Grade Two.

Jagnanan has a passion for accounting, and had done accounting courses at Cacique Accounting College after completing his CSEC exams.

According to him, he is aspiring to either become an economist or accountant in the corporate world.

“To make this a reality, I'll be pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Economics and

Accounting at the University of the West Indies. This was, likewise, one of my goals, and I am very grateful to see it materialise. It was the sole reason for me to pursue CAPE, so it's like destiny was already written,” the visibly excited young man said.

He was among the students who were present at the Anna Regina Secondary School in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) for the announcement of the results.

While speaking with this publication, he used the opportunity to extend gratitude to his parents, siblings, aunt, other family members and his friends for their sacrifices and blessings.

He said it was their ac-

tions and their love that propelled him to succeed.

“This achievement is mine as it is theirs. Also, to my mother, who has been my everlasting source of unwavering support in all my endeavours. Her sacrifices, trials and tribulations, both seen and unseen, have made me into the young adult that I am today,” Jagnanan added.

Meanwhile, another Queen’s College student, Joshua Gulab, secured eight Grade Ones, three Grade Twos and two Grade Threes.

Although his academic journey has been both challenging and rewarding, he plans to continue his education, as he wants to make his parents proud.

“It’s a bitter-sweet mo-

ment for me. I am happy to hear of my grades, but I think I will be reviewing a few of them,” Gulab said.

St. Stanislaus student Cleon Jardine secured seven Grade Ones, one Grade Two and one Grade Four. He said that after completing CSEC, he was determined to continue his studies, and was glad to do so.

He said it was not an easy task, and he used the opportunity to thank all those who assisted him in his journey to success.

Among the other outstanding performers are Queen’s College students Divya Nandalall, who secured seven Grade Ones and one Grade Two, and Zaydeo Ramotar, who secured six

Grade Ones and four Grade Twos.

Ramotar told this publication that he was very happy with his results, and from the inception wanted to do well.

Minister of Education Priya Manikchand and Chief Education Officer Shadam Hussain used the opportunity to congratulate the students.

Hussain, in his remarks, said that the country has recorded a 98.8 per cent pass rate at this year’s sitting.

It was revealed that, overall, the students secured a total of 386 Grade Ones, 736 Grade Twos, 981 Grade Threes,761 Grade Fours and 493 Grade Fives

Naresh Jagnanan

Joshua Gulab

Cleon Jardine

Divya Nandalall Zaydeo Ramotar

Guyana records significant performances for CSEC, CAPE

By Shamar Meusa

GUYANA has recorded significant performances in several subject areas for the Caribbean Advance Proficiency Exam (CAPE) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. This announcement was made by education officials on Thursday at the Anna Regina Multilateral School, in Region

Two, where the country’s preliminary performances in the two areas were revealed.

Some 12,819 students sat both CAPE and CSEC exams in the country, with 701 of those completing CAPE and 12,118 completing CSEC.

According to Chief Education Officer (CEO), Saddam Hussain, for the CSEC examinations in Guyana this year, there were 75,644 subject en-

tries, and an overall matriculation rate of 65 per cent.

Hussain added that in these preliminary results, outstanding performance means that nationally there was a more than 80 per cent pass rate in 14 subject areas.

These subject areas include agricultural science both double and single awards, food nutrition and health, music, physical education, technical

drawing and theatre arts, among others. He added that stable performances were recorded in several subject areas including English, mathematics, and Caribbean history.

While some outstanding performances were recorded, the Chief Education Officer said that there was a decline in quite a few subjects as well.

Hussain said that the ministry will, on Monday, begin the process to put forward action to rectify these areas where declines were seen.

“….We will ask our supervision arm to ensure that all issues are identified and then our training arm of NCERD [will] ensure that the necessary help is provided,” he said.

For CAPE, the CEO revealed that there was an increase in the number of entries, with 701 candidates this year as compared to 671 in 2022. Units in 29 different subject areas were offered this year.

He added that CAPE unlike CSEC is reported on a seven-point scale, so persons obtaining grades one to five in subjects would mean that they have attained an acceptable standard for matriculation.

As a result, he added that the overall matriculation rate for CAPE this year stands at 90.85 which, he said, is about a two per cent decrease as compared to 2022.

A 100 per cent pass rate was recorded in 12 units including Accounting Unit 2, Applied Mathematics Unit 2, Building and Mechanical Engineering Units 1 and 2, Green Energy Unit 2

and Geography Unit 1, among others.

Additionally, Hussain said that a 75 per cent and higher pass rate was recorded in 40 of the units offered, with improved performances recorded in areas like agricultural science, which shot up to 91 per cent, and applied mathematics which went up from 88 per cent to 100 per cent, geography from 95 to 100 per cent, and economics from 81 per cent to 90 per cent.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during her address, told students: “The fact that you made it to fifth form and or grade 11 and wrote these exams when we just came out of a pandemic that saw millions of children across the world exiting prematurely high school, means you are already a winner.”

She mentioned that the Government of Guyana has been putting measures in place to ensure that students who exit successfully and do well, can move on to tertiary training and education in any field that they desire.

Manickchand also said that the government is ensuring that there are programmes in place for students who did not exit secondary schools successfully, so as to ensure that this would not be the end of their academic journey.

“So, if you did well, great job, congratulations, if you did poorly, this is not the end of your academic journey… if you don’t want it to be the end of your academic journey,” she said.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand

Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain (Ministry of Education photos)

Berbice communities to be revitalised with re-opening of Rose Hall Estate

WITH the Rose Hall Estate set to be reopened on September 23, 2023, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that this is just one way in which the government is putting money back into the pockets of citizens.

During a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo said that restoring the estate will revive the Ancient County of Berbice that faced immense turmoil during the previous APNU+AFC’s tenure in office.

“Sugar was the major economic activity for

Berbice; for the whole County. The sugar workers’ income served as the driving force for the local economy,” he said, adding that sugar workers aided in the functioning of all sectors.

Addressing the strain that was placed on the local economy during the APNU+AFC’s time

in office, Dr. Jagdeo said that thousands of sugar workers were fired as a result of the closure of the sugar estates.

In 2017, the former APNU+AFC coalition government had announced the closure of several sugar estates across the country, leaving thousands of persons without jobs or sources of income. The move saw four sugar estates being closed, and 7,000 sugar workers losing their jobs.

The Rose Hall Estate, prior to its closure, was “home” to some 2,500 sugar workers, but 1,181 of them were retrenched. The remaining workers from the Rose Hall Estate were transferred to Blairmont Estate over in West Coast Berbice, and Albion Estate on the Corentyne.

The closure of the estates, according to Dr. Jagdeo, resulted in an increase in unemployment within the various sectors, and the entire economy faced tremendous difficulties.

“People were losing hope,” he said, reflecting on how the livelihoods of sugar workers were destroyed, and their families suffered to the point where some parents could not even afford to send their children to school.

“Our strategy has been to put more disposable income back into the economy,” the PPP General Secretary said, noting that the government is committed to ensuring that what happened under the APNU+AFC does not transpire ever again.

He also said that

re-employment of the sugar workers is important in the process of breathing life back into the Berbice economy.

During the announcement of the re-opening of the estates, the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Sasenarine Singh on Wednesday credited the Guyana government, under President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha for providing the required financial and technical support to begin the process of reopening all the sugar mills that were shut down under the previous administration.

“We have started the process now with the reopening of Rose Hall Estate, which is tentatively set to reopen on September 23, 2023,” he said.

Also speaking briefly on the reopening of the estate was the Agriculture Minister, who said that this is demonstrative of the PPP fulfilling the promises it made to the people who have always been and remain at the centre of the country’s development policy.

Recently, the National Assembly cleared supplementary funding in the sum of $1.5 billion to provide additional resources to facilitate the rehabilitation of 1,572 hectares of land at the Albion, Blairmont, Rose Hall and Uitvlugt Estates.

Although the sugar industry has been considered a liability for years, the PPP administration is hoping to “lift the industry from the ashes.”

Jagdeo shuts down secrecy claims on Marriott Hotel sale

KAIETEUR News has once again come under scrutiny for spreading false narratives, and creating controversy regarding the sale of Guyana’s Marriott Hotel, which has been in the public domain ever since the government began the process in December 2022.

At a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown, People’s Progressive Party General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo provided facts surrounding the hotel’s sale.

It was highlighted that the administration, through the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), went through a public tender in search of possible investors.

“We went to public tender; we got two bids – $55 million and $65 million. He (Glen Lall) said we should sell it for $55

million because it’s a Guyanese; we went out back to tender again, and this is all in the public domain at these press conferences. You now have a bid for $90 million. I said to people we’re wrapping up this bid; every step of the way we informed the public,” Dr. Jagdeo explained on Thursday.

“This is the same Glen Lall who had been saying that he knows about some phantom investors who own the Marriott,” added the general secretary while making it clear that this was a total lie.

Dr. Jagdeo had even challenged the paper’s publisher, Glen Lall, to present any evidence to corroborate his claim that private investors are behind the funding of the Guyana Marriott.

“He couldn’t prove a single one (of those claims). He came to a press conference, I said to him that I would leave

this job if he could find a single phantom investor or owner, so he was exposed there,” the General Secretary said.

The US$52 million

Victim’s brothers among four in custody

- for Rose Hall double murder

AS investigations continue into the horrific murder of a mother and son, four persons have been taken into custody, the Guyana Police Force has reported.

The victims are Melissa Arokium, called “Lisa”, a 31-year-old, and her son, Anthony Arokium, an eight-year-old, both of Lot 189 Mangrove Street, Rose Hall Town.

Their lifeless bodies were discovered in a pool of blood with multiple injuries. Police said the alleged double murder occurred on Wednesday, between 06:30hrs and 13:30 hrs.

Those in custody are the woman’s brother, 33-year-old Serrana Arokium, a cane harvester who resided with her; another brother, Nickolas Arokium, a 26-year-old vendor who discovered the bodies; Shilendra Umrao, 37, the boyfriend of Melissa; and Deo Naris, 38, a neighbour of the deceased.

According to the police, Melissa sustained multiple chop wounds to the back of her neck, one to the left waist, and another to the left upper hand, while the child sustained several chop wounds to his right side,

his head and his face.

A post-mortem examination was conducted on Thursday on the victims by the government pathologist, who gave the cause of death for Melissa as shock and hemorrhage and incised wounds to the neck, while her eightyear-old son died as a result of shock and hemorrhage and multiple incised wounds.

The bodies were subsequently handed over to relatives for burial. Family members are hoping for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice.

Guyana Marriott was commissioned in 2015, and its construction was funded through public investments, and a US$27 million syndicated loan

from Republic Bank Ltd.

The government invested US$30 million, through NICIL, and owned the hotel via Atlantic Hotel Inc. (AHI),

a special-purpose company established to build the hotel. (DPI)

Granger’s extension of exploration licences had consequences - Dr. Jagdeo reveals

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday, revealed that former President David Granger’s oneyear extension of ExxonMobil’s prospecting licenses resulted in myriad consequences.

In July 2020, in response to a request from ExxonMobil, the then APNU+AFC government approved a one-year extension for the Petroleum Prospecting Licence pertaining to the Stabroek Block. This extension also encompassed the Canje and Kaieteur Blocks. The letters of approval were signed by former President, Granger.

During a press conference at Freedom House, Dr. Jagdeo called out the APNU+AFC for its persistence in blaming the PPP for the coalition’s mistakes.

“So, when this information came out, rather than going quiet, AFC put out a press release…,” he said, adding that the release issued was riddled with questions that anyone could answer if they paid attention.

According to Dr. Jagdeo, AFC's allegation that the PPP provided a second extension is false. He added that it also reveals the organisation's true

character and shows that they had no clue what they were doing in the oil and gas sector.

“The extension that Granger gave had consequences… it shifted the provisions of the prospecting licence by one year,” he said, explaining that 2019 was the first renewal period and 2023 was the second renewal period; however, because there is a one-year extension

on the Petroleum Prospecting license, the second renewal period got shifted to 2024.

Dr. Jagdeo said that Granger’s signing off of the extension leaves more questions than answers, since the act occurred five months after he lost the 2020 General and Regional Elections and more importantly, a few days before Dr. Irfaan Ali’s swearing in as President.

“As you’ve seen on the statement that was issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, it was former President Granger who gave this extension… what was the urgency of doing this eight days before the swearing in of President Ali?” Dr. Jagdeo questioned.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Natural Resources issued a statement responding to former APNU+AFC officials including Khem-

raj Ramjattan, David Patterson, and Dr. Vincent Adams, in relation to the approval of a one-year force majeure (FM) extension for exploration operations under the Petroleum Prospecting Licence for the Stabroek Block, within the Stabroek Co-Ventures (Co-Vs).

The ministry pointed out that during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Co-Vs engaged in ongoing discussions with the APNU+AFC government concerning the pandemic’s impact on petroleum operations. These dialogues led to the establishment of a Public Health Order, categorising petroleum operations as essential services.

Aside from the granting of the extension, it is important to note that the 2020 Annual Work Programme and Budget (AWPB), which had received ap-

proval in 2019 during the APNU+AFC government’s term, was extended during the initial stages of the pandemic, a time of uncertainty regarding its ultimate impact.

In contrast, the ministry emphasised that the PPP/C government opted not to endorse FM extensions for both the Canje and Kaieteur Blocks, differing from the APNU+AFC’s decision.

Consequently, the ministry asserted that the statements made by the APNU+AFC leadership not only reveal a contradictory stance but also expose their willingness to disseminate misleading information to the public. These statements demonstrate a lack of commitment to the advancement of the oil and gas sector, as well as a disregard for its development.

General Secretary of the PPP, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Adrian Narine Photo)

Dengue vaccines not part of control programme

The following is the full text of a statement issued by the Ministry of Health on the subject at reference:

“WE noticed an article published in the Village Voice on August 24, 2023, in which it asserts that the Ministry of Health (MOH) has procured dengue vaccines, and keeping it a secret. It makes no sense that the MOH would secure vaccines and keep it a secret. “This is simply a reckless report designed more to create confusion and to mislead the public.

“To make it clear, the MOH has not procured any dengue vaccine for use in the National Dengue Control Programme.

The use of dengue vaccines in the Dengue Control Programme is under serious consideration in Guyana, but a decision is yet to be made whether Guyana will introduce dengue vaccines as part of the fight against dengue. Once a decision is made, Guyana will procure adequate supply of dengue vaccines.

“It should be noted that while the dengue vaccines presently being marketed, Dengvaxia from Sanofi Pas-

teur and Qdenga from Takeda, are licensed in a small number of countries, they

- Health Ministry clarifies

have not yet been prequalified by the WHO.

“None of the WHO, the US CDC and the EU regulatory authorities have recommended these vaccines for universal administration. In the small number of jurisdictions around the world where the vaccines are used, they are only used under very restrictive conditions.

“The WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on immunization has been studying the dengue vaccine data, and Guyana is awaiting the recommen-

dations coming out of the SAGE Group.

“As soon as the SAGE comes out with its recommendations, Guyana will work with PAHO/WHO to include dengue vaccines in our fight against dengue.

Guyana’s FDA is prepared to license dengue vaccines as soon as a decision is made to use these vaccines.

We urge media personnel and media management to desist from circulating false information on matters affecting people’s health.”

GTT takes smart home experience to Building Expo

- new fibre customers to get three months free service and free installation

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), a proud sponsor of the International Building Expo, will be giving patrons the ideal smart home experience this year.

According to a press release, the company, which has been transforming homes into intelligent connected spac-

es, has used its booth to showcase exciting and modern home technologies powered by GTT

redefines how people perceive comfort in the office and at home.

“The GTT experi -

Customers visiting GTT’s booth located in the first auditorium will get a chance to ex-

a feel for the comfort and possibilities that are available throughout the several solutions provided by GTT - whether it’s mobile services, home or business solutions.

With the significant growth in the construction of apartment buildings across Guyana, GTT’s Business Solutions unit will also be offering professional guidance on how to get the best connection for multi-dwelling units with Fibre. This includes the company’s cable TV offer and the ability to turn off connectivity to vacant apartments and increase savings.

Customers registering for Fibre at the expo commencing today, will also save up to G$65,000 by getting three months of free service and free installation.

Samsung S22Plus when they sign up.

The Fibre + Voice plans provide customers with the most value for money when they bundle their services. The plan gives data speeds up to 300mbps while customers also enjoy up to 10,000 free minutes, free callers ID and three-way calling.

The company has been doing a lot of work to roll out its fibre network. Two in every three homes can now access the service and new subscribers are guaranteed installation within 72 hours (3 days).

solutions at the big event.

Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Home Solutions and Fixed Networks, Eshwar Thakurdin, said that the company is offering an immersive experience that

ence is more than just a glimpse into our products and services; it's an invitation to witness firsthand how technology and expertise come together to shape a better, more connected lifestyle,” he said.

perience several smart connectivity options to power their dream home. Among the list are smart lights, doorbells, eco dots, TVs and more.

Thakurdin said it is about giving everyone

The new campaign offers subscribers 100 per cent waiver off their fibre bill on the third, sixth and ninth month of subscription. In addition to the savings, customers will also get the opportunity to win one of three 55” smart TVs, one of 10 battery backup units or a

The GTT brand will also be promoting its mobile data experience. Customers who activate data plans will also get the opportunity to win one of the three 55” smart TVs, the Samsung S22Plus and can get 5GBS of data when they participate in exciting trivia.

The company has encouraged patrons to visit its booth located in the first auditorium of the exhibition from today to August 27, 2023.

Naya

25 to light up NCC stage on Saturday

NAYA Zamana 25 by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha promises to be thrilling and enthralling this year, in keeping with its established track record of producing one of the best Bollywood shows locally, featuring skits, songs and dances.

Promising a new and original story this time

for their many years of dedication and beautiful performances in Naya Zamana (since Naya Zamana 14 in 2008 and Naya Zamana 16 in 2011 respectively).

Also recognised were Varun Samlall for his many years of providing excellent technical support for the show, Dinesh Narine of Red Mango for many years

around, Naya Zamana, choreographed by Dr. Vindhya Persaud, is slated for Saturday, August 26, at the National Cultural Centre (NCC).

Excitingly, Ahmed Masi Wali will once again be joining the cast of Naya Zamana.

Since performing in Naya Zamana 20 and 21, he worked as Assistant Director under Dharma Productions and made cameo appearances in films like Kalank and Kapoor and Sons.

Ahmed, who was a contestant on the television reality show India's Next Superstars (2018), played Aarav in two seasons of the Zee5 original series RejctX, directed by Goldie Behl.

“We are excited to have him again…” the Naya Zamana team said on its Facebook page recently.

Meanwhile, at the show’s recent launch event, awards of recognition and appreciation were announced for a number of persons including Nirmala Persaud, Indira Persaud, and Venika Singh

of ticket sales and support for Naya Zamana and the National Cultural Centre in recognition and appreciation of the support in staging the show year after year.

“As we countdown to Naya Zamana 25…journey with us from Naya Zamana 1 to 24 as we revisit the years of special memories and growth of the production,” the team said.

At the launching event held at Movie Towne’s Fiesta Plaza, attendees enjoyed a video look back at 24 editions of Naya Zamana, performances on some of the iconic songs as well as a preview of what to expect for this year’s show.

Long standing dancers and supporters of the production were recognised and sponsors were announced. Apart from director and choreographer, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, there was Costume and Set Designer, Trishala Persaud, who reflected on the journey of the production from its beginnings in August 1994.

Zamana

Director and choreographer, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

Budding dramatists to showcase talents on September 2

DIRECTOR of Purple Arts Productions and longstanding member of the entertainment industry, Simone Dowding, is gearing up to put on her signature show called ‘Emerge’ at the Theatre Guild in Kings-

the first and second year students, whom she said wrote a new short play. They will be performing another one that they had written the first time they attended the workshop.

“I am really proud of Purple Arts Productions

of the workshop. About four of the children now act in Merundoi, and about six are doing plays, advertisements and movies.

Explaining how the workshop all got started, Dowding recalled

ton next weekend.

‘Emerge 10’ dubbed “a performance for children by children” will be held on Saturday, September 2, from 18:00 hours and it represents the culmination of a drama workshop that commenced shortly after school was closed in July.

During this time, the children were taught six disciplines of drama: acting, directing, playwright, costume management, stage management and property management.

“This is our 12th year, but only our 10th show because of the twoyear hiatus of COVID,” Dowding told Buzz this week.

The workshop, which usually caters for children between the ages of nine and 16, also exposes them to the art of listening, stage breathing and stage geography. The children would typically write and direct their own plays for the show.

To make things a bit special this year, Dowding decided to bring back

because it really contributes to helping to mould the foundation of the children who have turned out very well in various professions,” Dowding expressed.

Two University of Guyana interns (Shimeka Paul and Faith Stephanie) are assisting with the production of the show, and the ‘Latchman trio’, a brother and his two sisters, will be doing some Indian dances.

Dowding has observed that, with each passing year, people are becoming more and more interested in children’s drama and are coming out to support them. In fact, the sitting First Lady has attended the productions over the years.

Dowding has said that through the workshop, she helps the children to build a good foundation in terms of their skills, confidence and self-esteem.

“They come with their talent; I just nurture it,” she said.

So far, she’s seen positive results coming out

that she wanted 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 those who cannot afford it are still taken in by Dowding who said she has a fondness 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’.

Simone Dowding interacts with the children during a practice session

Dowding with some of the participants of her children’s drama workshop

Thousands attend anime event

- vendors seize ‘golden opportunity’ to showcase their creative side

By Faith Greene

LAST Saturday, thousands of anime and manga fans turned up at the Guyana Marriott for MARS 23

This year’s event was the second of its kind and was organised by the founders of Sozos Entertainment, George Jacobs, Marissa Ramnauth and Shomari Williams.

The trio had said previously

that MARS would be coming bigger and better this year, with a wide focus on highlighting the anime community.

This goal was accomplished as anime fans came out in their numbers. These fans included the vendors who played a pivotal role in highlighting the community, by showcasing their anime themed products and services.

Additionally, there were

several in-house activities which allowed the fans to win cool prizes and trinkets compliments of vendors and the organising company.

Notably, all the vendors were young Guyanese entrepreneurs.

For many of them, MARS was a golden opportunity to express themselves, showcase their businesses and their talents, and create a name for

themselves in the business world.

One such person was the owner of Riddle Me Graphics, Ridwaan Wilson, who came all the way from Linden to be a part of the event.

Riddle Me Graphics, according to Wilson, provides small scale printing services and designs graphics such as logos and signs.

He said that as of right now they are only providing small scale printing.

Estharita Cupido, another young entrepreneur started her business, The Art Realm during the pandemic.

What started out as a hobby quickly became a business.

“So, I do anime paintings, as well as other customisable paintings at the request of other people.”

More information about Cupido’s business can be found

“I have bracelets, necklaces. I recently started doing keychains. Everything is very fairycore.”

DaCosta has been in business for the past two years. She said: “I started it as just making jewellery for myself and then people got interested in it and I just went (forward) from there.”

In addition to anime merch vendors, there were a range of live entertainment activities including the tug-of-war game,

on Instagram and Facebook.

Lisa Lam, owner of Luna Stationery said her business specialises in “cute” stationery. She sells journals, notebooks, pens, washi tapes and stickers.

It has been one year since she started her business which is located on Sheriff Street.

She said that she is always pushing herself to achieve the best for her business in every way possible. This includes getting items that her customers will enjoy using.

a cosplay competition, spicy ramen challenge, and a voice acting challenge.

Shomari Williams, one of MARS’ organising members related that this year’s event saw an estimated 3,000 persons in attendance.

“We would have sold out our tickets. And it turns out that there were 3,000, or nearly 3,000 people in attendance, which includes the participants, vendors, sponsors and media, VIP, special invitees and so on.”

Maria DaCosta used the MARS event as an opportunity to display her colourful jewellery.

She said that she makes all of her jewellery by hand and usually includes items such as crystals, glass beads and other items. Some are wire wrapped and paired with crystals.

“It was a great event... We did not get to do everything we wanted to do. Truly we didn’t, but we are doing some of the things we wanted to do on the event day, after the event.”

Last year at the first MARS event, a little more than 700 persons were in attendance.

Owner of Luna’s Stationery, Lisa Lam

CEO of The Art Realm, Estharita Cupido

Owner of Prtty by Maria, Maria DaCosta (right)

Machel Montano, Sean Paul, Shenseea to headline Guyana Super Concert

STABROEK Travel

has announced that international superstars

Machel Montano, Sean Paul and Shenseea are set to perform live at

Guyana’s Super Concert.

Billed for the Guyana National Stadium on September 23, 2023, the Soca, Reggae and

Dancehall stars will be joined by Guyana’s talented Adrian Dutchin and Nekeita, among other local artistes.

The riveting concert

Grammy winner Stephen Marley announces ‘Old Soul’ album

is part of a host of events slated for Cricket Carnival and forms part of the government’s “One Guyana” goal to unite the people.

Tickets are available at www.stabroektravel. com. General tickets cost US$30; VIP is US$140; VVIP is US$250. Early bird tickets are also on

sale and will end on August 28, 2023. Further information on the physical ticket locations and sponsors will be revealed soon.

EIGHT-TIME Grammy Award winner, Stephen Marley, announced that his 14-track acoustic-inspired album 'Old Soul' is now available for pre-order.

The album features appearances by brothers Ziggy and Damian Marley, Eric Clapton, and Buju Banton, among others. This is his fifth solo album and it is set to drop on September 15, 2023, via Tuff Gong Collective/ UMe/Ghetto Youths International.

The announcement comes with the release of the new single ‘Cool As The Breeze’, which is now available for streaming alongside the already-released title track, ‘Old Soul’ which went up on streaming platforms two months ago.

The son of reggae legend Bob Marley also took to Instagram to announce dates for his "Old Soul Tour "Unplugged" in the US, starting September 8.

Best Reggae Album three times as a solo art-

ist with Mind Control (2007), Mind Control Acoustic (2008), and Revelation Pt 1 – The Root of Life (2011).

Stephen also won the Best Reggae Album Grammy twice as a producer of younger brother Damian Marley’s ‘Halfway Tree’ and ‘Welcome to Jamrock’ albums, and a further three times as a member of his older brother Ziggy Marley’s group Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers. (Loop News)

The son of reggae legend, Bob Marley, took to Instagram to announce dates for his ‘Old Soul’ Tour ‘Unplugged’ in the US, starting September 8

City sign Doku from...

FROM PAGE 35

goals in 35 games last season.

Doku had two years left on the five-year deal he signed when Rennes paid 26m euros (£22.3m) to sign him from Anderlecht in October 2020, shortly after he made his international debut as a teenager.

Doku cited the opportunity to work under City boss Guardiola as a key factor in his decision to join the Premier League champions.

"I am a young player with so much learning and improving to do,"

added the Antwerp-born winger.

"Working with Pep and his staff, and playing alongside these worldclass players, will make me a much better player. I feel sure of that.

"Watching City last season was amazing. To win the Treble is the hardest thing in football and they did it. You cannot imagine how exciting it is to be joining this team. I cannot wait to get started. Hopefully I can make the fans happy."

City's director of Football Txiki Begiristain has tipped Doku

to develop into a "world class" attacking player under Guardiola's guidance.

He added: "Jeremy is a very exciting young player and I'm so pleased he's joining us.

"In terms of raw attributes, he has everything a winger needs. He has outstanding pace and he is exceptional in one-onone situations.

"I honestly believe working with Pep and the technical staff here at City will see him develop into a world-class attacking talent."

Pakistan clinch last-over thriller to take series lead

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Pakistan clinched an epic last-over thriller against Afghanistan to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ODI series, in Hambantota on Thursday.

Chasing 301, Pakistan somehow narrowly escaped a defeat and kept their unbeaten ODI record intact against the

dran's classy 80 had led the team to 300 for 5 after they were bowled out for 59 in the opening ODI. But in the end, it wasn't enough to secure their first victory over Pakistan in this format.

Imam, Babar and Shadab shine Pakistan recovered well after losing Fakhar

His cameo was crucial in Pakistan bringing the equation down to 11 off the final over and chasing down the big total. It also earned him the Player-ofthe-Match award.

Gurbaz, Zadran power Afghanistan to 300

Two days ago, Afghanistan faltered in a chase of 202 and registered their second-lowest total in ODIs. But on Thursday, two determined 21-yearolds born a few weeks apart, powered Afghanistan to their highest ODI total against Pakistan.

for the 50-over format. In his 101-ball knock, Zadran hit six fours and two sixes. For Pakistan, their short-ball tactic proved futile against the openers who either played it down the ground or pulled

away for boundaries. Afridi came back in the 45th over to remove Gurbaz and Rashid Khan, but it was too late for a Pakistan turnaround. Naseem was also in the wicket chart with a dismissal of Nabi in

the final over, but neither the spinners nor seamers could break the Afghanistan spirit early in the innings. Afghanistan's spirit, however, would eventually break at the end.

hosts, having registered their sixth win in as many games.

The match came down to 11 runs needed off the final over and Shadab Khan going strong unbeaten on 48. Pakistan had two wickets in hand. And then some drama, as it so often happens in an encounter between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Fazalhaq Farooqi ran the allrounder out backing up right at the start of the last over. Shadab was way out of the crease before Farooqi delivered the ball and replays confirmed the run-out. Naseem Shah, however, kept his cool and slammed the first ball of the last over for a four past long-off.

The equation soon came down to six off three balls with Haris Rauf on strike. A misfield at the deep midwicket region then helped Pakistan fetch three runs and with three needed off two balls and just a wicket in hand, Naseem Shah's thick outside edge past short third took the visitors home.

It meant a memorable batting performance by Afghanistan went in vain.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz's epic 151 and Ibrahim Za-

Zaman early, with Imamul-Haq top-scoring with 91 and sharing a century stand with Babar Azam for the second wicket.

Imam looked like the most comfortable batter in the line-up, ticking along by mostly running ones and twos. His 105-ball knock had just four fours, but kept Pakistan's required run-rate under control.

Babar, who was out for duck in the first game, played a steady 53. But his wicket off Farooqi in the 31st over opened the gates and offered Afghanistan a way back.

Pakistan lost three key wickets for three runs inside ten balls. Mohammed Nabi struck twice in the 38th over to dismiss Agha Salma and Usama Mir, who was promoted up ahead of Shadab and Iftkhar Ahmed. Mujeeb Ur Rahman then got the big wicket of Imam in the next over with the equation coming down to 56 from 30 balls.

The game was still evenly poised. Though Pakistan lost Iftikhar and Shaheen Afridi in the 47th and 48th over respectively, Shadab kept attacking, blazing three fours and a six in his 35-ball innings.

The openers played out almost 40 overs and scored at a brisk rate on a surface covered with grass and offering bounce. It was also a different track than the one for the first ODI that assisted spinners. Gurbaz and Zadran's massive opening stand extended to 227 and was finally broken by legspinner Usama Mir when the former holed out to long-off. By that time, Afghanistan had touched the par score.

Gurbaz, who expressed his intent from the beginning by coming down the track against the pace, found boundaries regularly to reach fifty in 72 deliveries. Despite experiencing some pain in his left forearm, Gurbaz kept going and brought up his fifth ODI hundred in 122 balls. His best over of the innings came against Rauf, the bowler who rattled Afghanistan with five wickets in the opening game, in the 37th over when he greeted the pacer with four back-to-back fours.

On the way to his career-best score, Gurbaz achieved a few feats: he became the first wicketkeeper to score 150-plus in men's ODIs against Pakistan, his 151 is the third highest individual ODI score by any batter in Sri Lanka.

On the other hand, Zadran kick-started his innings quietly but got on with the act as the innings progressed. He took 71 balls to reach his fourth ODI fifty, in the 30th over. Playing in his 16th ODI, he crossed 50 for the eighth time on Thursday, showing the temperament

Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam’s 118-run stand helped set Pakistan a platform for the chase (AFP/Getty Images)

Leclerc wary of Red Bull dominance

(BBC) - Ferrari's Charles Leclerc says it will be "very, very difficult" to catch Red Bull before the end of the 2025 season, when the current set of Formula 1

regulations will change. Leclerc is one of only two non-Red Bull drivers to set a pole position this year, and Red Bull have won every race.

Two-time world cham-

pion Max Verstappen is also looking to secure his ninth consecutive race victory for the team.

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton said it was "very possible Charles

could be right".

Leclerc, 25, said: "They have a really big margin and it's going to be very, very difficult to catch them before the change in regulations," Leclerc said at the Dutch Grand Prix.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said it was "very possible Charles could be right".

are 100, 200 points ahead in the championship," the seven-time champion said.

Hamilton added that Mercedes were "working on closing the gap and next year will be proof of that - I hope we can".

At his home race at Zandvoort this weekend, if Red Bull's Verstappen secures a ninth victory

win every race but we are hopeful we can challenge him at some point. And if there are any mistakes and mishaps we will be right there. He and the team haven't made any so far."

McLaren's Lando Norris, whose team vaulted to the front of the pack behind Red Bull in the four races before the sum-

F1's current rules were introduced last year and, after a challenge from Ferrari in the first half of the season, the team dominated the second half of the year. Their performance has been even stronger in 2023.

The next major change of rules is due for 2026, when there will be a new set of aerodynamic regulations in tandem with heavily revised engines with about 50% of the power produced by the hybrid part of the power-unit - up from 20% currently - as well as the introduction of fully sustainable synthetic fuels.

Hamilton said Red Bull likely had the advantage of a head start in working on next year's car.

"They are ahead and most likely have started developing next year's car already months before everyone else because they

in a row, he would equal the all-time record set by Sebastian Vettel, also for Red Bull, in 2013.

Many in F1 expect Verstappen to win all 10 remaining races this season and establish a remarkable new standard, and he said the thousands of Dutch fans who will pack the seaside circuit for this weekend were not a distraction.

"It is just great," said Verstappen, who has won both races at Zandvoort since it returned to the calendar in 2021 after a gap of 36 years.

"It doesn't bring for me a weight on my shoulders or extra pressure. We are able to do this now and it is fantastic and hopefully it will continue for a while but it is just fantastic to be here and see all the fans and drive such an incredible track."

Hamilton said: "There is a high chance he will

mer break, also believes it could be possible to win a race this year

"We have to have a bit of luck, something has to happen to Max, from a reliability point of view, for it to happen," Norris said.

"I don't have the confidence to say we can race him outright. Maybe we can out-qualify him now and again. We have been close and there are still some tracks to come where we can be close or possibly ahead if we put everything together, but the race is where Red Bull is on another level. Their tyre degradation is basically nil compared to everyone else on the grid, even compared to Mercedes."

Leclerc added: "It's different than in the past, in the way that in qualifying we are much closer than what we have seen in the past.

Charles Leclerc (left) finished third behind Red Bull’s Sergio Perez (right) and race winner Max Verstappen (centre, right) at the Belgium Grand Prix before the summer break

(BBC) - Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has ruled out signing striker Kylian Mbappe from Paris St-Germain this summer.

The 24-year-old Mbappe has so far refused to sign a contract extension with PSG, prompting speculation he could join the La Liga side.

It is believed PSG were open to selling the France captain rather than running the risk of losing him for free when his deal expires next year.

When asked about a

deal for Mbappe, Ancelotti said "No, I rule it out 100%."

He added: "I think our squad is closed and our players are thinking about our season."

Mbappe spent a spell training away from the PSG first team this month amid his contract stand-off, but he has since returned following what the club described as "very constructive and positive talks".

He was left out of the club's opening game of the season against Lorient but scored a penalty after coming on as a substitute in PSG's

1-1 draw with Toulouse last week.

In July, PSG gave Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal permission to talk to Mbappe after making a world-record £259m bid.

PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been adamant he would not let the striker leave for nothing and it is thought some kind of agreement is likely that will see Mbappe sign a one-year extension to his present deal as originally envisaged.

That would run to 2025 and allow PSG to sell Mbappe to Real

Madrid next summer. Mbappe joined PSG in 2017, initially

on loan from Monaco before a 180m euro (£165.7m) transfer,

and has scored a club record 213 goals in 261 games.

Madrid rules out Mbappe signing FIFA opens proceedings against Spanish football federation president

(BBC)- World football's governing body has opened disciplinary proceedings against Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales for his behaviour at Women's World Cup final.

Rubiales kissed forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England.

He earlier grabbed his crotch as he celebrated at the final whistle.

According to reports in Spain, Rubiales is set to announce his resignation on Friday and has already informed colleagues of his decision.

"Rubiales will resign tomorrow. He had lost

the backing of the players, the government, FIFA, and even those local organisations that depend on the federation budget," Spanish football expert Guillem Balague wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

"[The] next step is for everyone in Spain to reflect on what has happened and why."

Fifa will look at whether his actions constitute violations of article 13 in its disciplinary code, concerning offensive behaviour and fair play.

"Fifa reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary," it said in

a statement.

According to the disciplinary code, officials are among those that must "comply with the principles of fair play, loyalty and integrity".

It says disciplinary measures can be brought against anyone "violating the basic rules of decent conduct", "insulting a natural or legal person in any way, especially by using offensive gestures, signs or language" or "behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/ or FIFA into disrepute".

Rubiales' celebration at the final whistle was in the VIP area of Stadium Australia, while he was standing

near Queen Letizia of Spain and her 16-yearold daughter.

He then kissed Hermoso on the lips after she was presented with her winner's medal on the podium.

Rubiales apologised for the kiss on Monday, but Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that was "not enough" and second deputy prime minister Yolanda Diaz joined those calling for him to resign.

Futpro, a union representing Hermoso, said the incident should not go unpunished, and the 33-year-old said the union would "defend my interests" in the matter.

The Pachuca play -

er, who has earned 101 caps, had initially said on Instagram she "didn't like" Rubiales' actions but a statement released later on her behalf defended him.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has called an extraordinary general assembly to be held on Friday "as a matter of urgency."

Mbappe has scored a club-record 213 goals for PSG during his six years at the club

King Leads Jamaica Tallawahs to victory

Jamaica Tallawahs continued their unbeaten start to the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with an eight wicket win over St Kitts and Nevis Patriots.

The Jamaican franchise won the toss and chose to field first, with

a superb four wicket haul from Salman Irshad helping them restrict the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots to 156/9 after 20 overs.

The Tallawahs managed to chase down the target in 16.3 overs, captain Brandon King producing a magnificent innings of 67 to continue

the defending champions great start to the season.

The Patriots had got off to a promising early start, Andre Fletcher and Evin Lewis combining to push the score to 20/0 after two overs. Yet the fourth over would change the whole complexion of the tie as Ir-

shad took three wickets, including that of Fletcher and Ambati Rayudu, to leave the Patriots reeling at 37/4.

West Indies international Joshua Da Silva steadily rebuilt the innings with his score of 36, before a late burst from Dominic Drakes

saw the Patriots reach 156/9 at the end of their innings.

Jamaica Tallawah openers Brandon King and Kirk McKenzie combined to score seven boundaries and take the side to 34/0 after three overs of their chase. King would

go on to bring up his half century off just 22 balls, before losing his wicket on 67 to a Dominic Drakes delivery. Shamarh Brooks would continue to accelerate the score before Amir Jangoo would take his side across the finish line with a six.

The Port Mourant Cricket Ground will play host this weekend with the final of the Berbice Cricket Board/Minister Zulfikar Mustapha under-15 tournament.

The final is expected to be an exciting one with several of the county top under-15 players in action.

Tomorrow’s match is expected to start at 9:30am and executives of the BCB, led by its president, Hilbert Foster, and Competition Chairman Leslie Soloman, are expected to be present to

supervise.

Foster stated that the finals of the tournament, which started in 2021 was delayed due to several factors but the BCB decided to host the finals using the current date of birth for this year’s competition.

The Albion team will be led by Farhan Belle and he will be supported by national junior player Nathaniel Ramsammy. That team includes Feaz Baksh, Nicholas Lepps and Sahid Gajnabi.

The Port Mourant challenge would be spear-

headed by Navin and Ravin Boodwah, Asgar Nabbie, Vishal Williams and Arvin Samaroo.

The tournament was sponsored by Berbice-born Minister of Agriculture, Zulifar Mustapha.

The People Progressive Party Member of Parliament and Minister of Agriculture was once involved in county cricket at the second division level as a former captain of the Bloomfield team and has been very supportive of the game in the county.

Over one hundred thousands dollars worth of

prizes will be shared out to the winner, runner-up and man of the finals.

Albion team: Farhan Belle, Nathaniel Ramsammy,Feaz Baksh, Nicholas Lepps,Reshaan Sakrulla, Chamesh Sewnauth, Arif Marimuthoo, Said Jumratty, Sahid Gajnabi, Rajesh Singh,Rovin Lallbehari, Asif Marimuthoo, Jeremy Gobin and Kelvin Khedaroo.

Port Mourant team: Navin Boodwah, Ravin Boodwah, Asgar Nabbie, R. Kushley, R. Parache, Aryan Dasrat, Devendra Samaroo, M. Khan,

Port Mourant and Albion to clash in final on Saturday Roach returns to surrey for English county

CMC – Veteran Test seamer Kemar Roach has returned to Surrey for the three remaining matches of the club’s English County campaign.

The 35-year-old took 18 wickets in five matches earlier in the season but had the stint cut short after he returned to Barbados prematurely to deal with a family matter.

Surrey host Warwickshire on Sep -

tember 6, welcome Northamptonshire two weeks later before wrapping up their campaign with a trip to the Rose Bowl to face Hampshire starting September 26.

“Surrey is a second home for me and I’m looking forward to getting back down to business ahead of three massive games,” Roach said.

“We know what the goal is for the team

and I’m going to give everything to help achieve it.”

In his third season with the London club, Roach has already taken 65 wickets from 17 matches, at an average of 24.

Roach is the current spearhead of the West Indies Test attack with 265 wickets from 79 Tests, and lies fifth on the all-time list of West Indies wicket-takers in Tests.

Vishal Williams, Vickesh Roopnarine, A. Roopna-

rine, Arvin Samaroo, S Boodwah. Tekha Pooran - Manager.

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha MP

BCB/Minister Mustapha Under-15 tournament…

Kemar Roach

One-Guyana Basketball league

Calvin Chapman

Night two of the One-Guyana Basketball Premier League was special since it marked the first instance that games were played on the newly commissioned outdoor court at the National Gymnasium.

Fans flocked to the newly constructed bleachers of the Mandela Avenue facility to see Pepsi Sonics and Pacesetters make light work of their oppositions in two contrasting but entertaining matches.

In the first match, Lamaha Park/Springs Pepsi Sonics outscored Leonora D-Up Rising Stars 57-43 to earn this first win of the league which is scheduled to run for months; giving local players much needed competi-

tive action.

Jamie Booker netted a standout 20 points for Leonora but in a losing cause as his team went down by six points to Pepsi Sonics.

In the feature match, North Ruimveldt Black Caimans couldn't keep up with Wortmanville Pacesetters who swept them 105-53 in a mammoth loss.

Zion Gay (22 points), Nathan Saul (15 points) and Jaleel Duke (14) were among the standout players for Pacesetters.

The One-Guyana Basketball Premier League features 14 teams grouped into the Harpy Eagle Conference and the Jaguar Conference, competing in a projected range of 56 to 63 games.

During the league, teams from the Jaguar and Harpy Eagle Conferences will face

each other twice within their respective groups. The top four teams will progress to the playoffs, where the first-ranked team will compete against the fourth-ranked team, and the second-ranked team will take on the third-ranked team. The victors of these playoff matches will move on to the Conference Finals, where they will engage in a best-of-three series to determine the finalists for the National Championship.

Participating teams in the Jaguar Conference include Stabroek Eagles, Leonora D-UP Rising Stars, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts, Lamaha Park/ Springs Pepsi Sonics, Bagotstown/Prospect Kobras, Cummings Lodge, and UG Trojans. Meanwhile, the Harpy Eagle

GCB U-23 KO 50 over tournament (GT zone)

Hicks hits ton as DCC, MYO, QC and Transport advance

By Sean Devers

The Georgetown Zone of the inaugural Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) 50-overs U-23 knock-out cricket tournament run by the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) got off to an inauspicious start with only one umpire officiating at matches and no ‘30-yards’ marking at two of three grounds while Transport Sport Club gained a walk-over from the GDF.

Although Queen’s College batter, Tuen Hicks, scored a magnificent 101 and DCC’s Jaydon Dowlin made a sensible unbeaten 53, they were the only batters to 50.

National U-19 batter Sachin Singh, the biggest name in the GT zone, was looking good when he was bowled for 33.

Home team Everest were blown away for a disappointing 62 while the once powerful GCC were dismantled for 49 on a day of substandard batting by the big-name clubs.

At the QC ground, the home team registered the biggest total of the day when they amassed 287 all out in 45 overs against Agricola with Hicks leading the way with 101 from 106 decorated with 18 boundaries before he was bowled Joel Gilkes.

The 22-year-old was supported by Kevin Williams, who reached the boundary four times and cleared it once in his 36 and a blistering cameo from Nini Persaud who clobbered three fours and two sixes in 27 from 11 balls.

Lakram Ramolar (19) and Elnathan Sukhnandan (17) also contributed with

the bat in steaming conditions on a good track and fairly fast outfield.

Gilkes had 4-47 and Andel Manoharlal 2-18.

Agricola were dismissed for 131 in 21.2 to lose by 156 runs despite Gilkes returning with the bat to hit an unbeaten 29.

Apart from Gilkes, only Manoharlal with 20 and Julian DeAbreu 17, reached double figures. Daniel Persaud had 4-26 and Kampta Seepersaud took 2-3.

At Malteenoes, the clash between arch rivals DCC and GCC ended in an emphatic 181 win for the Queenstown side after they made 230-7 and bowled out GCC for 49.

DCC opted to bat on a track which generally kept low and led by a carefully crafted 68-run opening stand between

the left handed pair of Brandon Jaikarran, who hit three fours in 37 from 80 balls and Singh, who was a part of national senior trials games.

Singh, looking set on 33 with three fours and six, lofted leg-spinner Natram Persaud for four over long-on to post the 50 but after being beaten with the googley several times, Singh played back to one that kept low from pacer Revaldo Phillips and was bowled.

Jaden Campbell (2) was bowled by Persaud who also removed Inderjeet Nanan for 24 but Jaydon Dowlin and Daniel Mootoo shared in a 74-run stand as they steadied the ship.

Dowlin, who favoured the front foot square-drive, finished unbeaten on 53 from 60 balls with four fours while Mootoo made 31 from 45 balls with a couple of boundaries.

GCC’s only brief resistance came from Josh Charles who made 13 as Kaveem Whitney took 4-20 while Wavell Allen had 3-1

At Everest, no batter offered resistance in their paltry 62 in 24.2 overs as Dwayne Dick, Marvin Permaul, Akeem Critchlow and Andy Ragoolin took two wickets each for MYO who reached 64-3 in 16.2 overs.

Critchlow 16, Dick 14 and Guyana U-17 batter Dwayne Bollers, 14 not out, saw MYO with a few players from Malteenoes, including two females in National youth players, Talia Madramootoo and Naioem Barkoye, advance. Ariel Tilku had 3-22.

The other game scheduled for QC number 2 ground saw Transport gaining a walk-over from GDF.

Conference features teams including Kitty/Campbellville Ravens, South Ruimveldt Ravens, Plaisance Guardians, Guyana Defence Force, Wortmanville/ Werk-en-Rust Pacesetters, North Ruimveldt Caimans, and Kwakwani Untouchables. T he championship-winning team will receive a prize of $1 million, along with trophies, while the runner-up will be awarded $500,000 along with trophies. The successful execution of this tournament has been made possible through sponsorships from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, G-Boats Guyana, National Sports Commission, Guyana Basketball Federation, and Georgetown Basketball Federation.

Pepsi Sonics and Pacesetters register wins on night two City sign Doku from Rennes

(BBC) - Manchester City have completed the signing of Belgium winger Jeremy Doku from Rennes for £55.4m.

Last season's Treble winners have agree a fiveyear contract with the 21-year-old, who scored 10 goals in 75 Ligue 1 appearances across three seasons.

Doku, who has 16 caps for Belgium, has taken the number 11 shirt.

"This is a great day for me, both personally

and professionally. City are the best team in world football, so joining them is special," Doku said.

Doku becomes Pep Guardiola's third summer signing after midfielder Mateo Kovacic arrived for £25m from Chelsea and defender former RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol joined for £77m. West Ham, Tottenham and Chelsea had also been interested in signing Doku, who scored seven

Jaydon Dowlin scored an intelligent unbeaten 53 for DCC

Action between Pepsi Sonics and Rising Stars (defence)

Jeremy Doku made international appearances for Belgium at the 2020 Euros and 2022 World Cup

BASSETERRE, SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS - AUGUST 23: Brandon King of Jamaica Tallawahs hits 4 during the Men’s 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match 7 between Saint Kitts and Nevis Patriots and Jamaica Tallawahs at Warner Park Sporting Complex on August 23, 2023 in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis

(Photo by Randy Brooks/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Sachin Singh made

being bowled at MSC