Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 27-03-2023

Narine photos)

rapidly dying’

– Jagdeo says Women urged to report workplace discrimination, sexual harassment

‘PPP will wipe out all weapons of racism’

memorial

By Clestine Juan

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali, has pledged to eliminate all “weapons of racism” that are directed at the government and its citizens, amidst a wave of racial discrimination being fuelled by Opposition elements.

For the first time as President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed a mammoth crowd gathered at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, East Berbice-Corentyne, to pay homage to the late Founder Leader of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

The Head of State called on the nation to stand strong against “forces” which are “hell-bent” on weaponising racial discrimination in Guyana.

Aubrey Norton, the leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), is currently facing criticism for incendiary remarks made by the Working People Alliance (WPA). The PNCR-led APNU has also been accused of inciting racial tension and deviating from the promotion of peace and security in Guyana.

These accusations have caused significant concern among citizens who long for a united and peaceful Guyana.

Dr. Ali stressed that it is important for political leaders to prioritise the well-being of the country and its people, rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric that only serves to further polarise the nation.

“They only weaponise this one great asset that we have; the one great asset is our diversity as a people. It is not a negative; our diversity is a great asset to us, but there are those who cannot

help themselves but weaponise this asset.

“Today, I say that no weapon formed in the clothing of racism will succeed, once this People’s Progressive Party is alive. And we don’t intend to die; we will stay alive. We will disband, destroy and completely wipe out the weapon of racism that continues to be used against the people of this country. And those who handle the weapon must understand that their days are numbered, and their days are coming to an end, because that weapon is being destroyed, globally. And that weapon will be buried here in Guyana,” President Ali said.

During his speech, President Ali emphasised the crucial role that Dr. Jagan played in the development of the country.

He acknowledged the

hardships that Guyanese people had to face during the five years that the PPP/C was out of office, and noted that understanding this pain is essential to truly appreciating Dr. Jagan’s contributions.

Furthermore, President Ali outlined his government’s policies that will reflect the core values and principles that Dr. Jagan stood for.

The main objectives of these policies include ensuring food security, promoting universal education, improving public health, investing in human capital, and developing public infrastructure.

Additionally, he said that in keeping with the founding father’s principles, the PPP/ C-led government aims to create job opportunities, and reduce poverty through sustainable economic growth. These policies will be im -

plemented with a long-term vision for the country’s development, creating a better future for all Guyanese people.

“Comrade Cheddi lived for the Working Class, but he did not live to see the Working Class remain working class or remain in poverty.

He lived to uplift them out of poverty, not for us to cry every day that we are fighting for the working class…[but] to uplift them, to uproot them from poverty, to remove them from poverty, to give them human dignity and equal opportunity, and that is what the People’s Progressive Party Civic continues to do,” he said.

PROGRESS

The President touched on the progress that the country has made, and the

this work in the future.

One of these inactive is the cash grant to parents of children attending school, which was introduced by the PPP/C to offset expenses associated with children attending school. However, this initiative was discontinued by the former APNU regime, and was recommenced when the PPP/C returned to office in 2020.

Under the 2023 Budget, parents and guardians of 214,000 schoolchildren will now receive $40,000, which amounts to $8.6 billion.

According to the Head of State, the education grant, the income-tax threshold adjustment, the salary adjustment, and the expansion of the parttime job programme are part of the billions of dollars being put back into the pockets of people, as the government seeks to increase disposable income.

challenges that are expected to arise in the future.

Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence that the ruling party will be able to overcome them, and continue on the path of development.

He emphasised that the Party will always stay true to its founding principles and values, even as it reinvents itself to meet the demands of a changing world, but not straying away from Jagan’s philosophy and principles.

In addition to these remarks, the President also spoke about the importance of investing in education, and creating job opportunities for the country’s youth.

He cited specific examples of successful initiatives that have been launched in recent years, and expressed a commitment to continuing

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) quarterly Caribbean economics report noted that Guyana was able to record low inflation rates, due to direct action to keep prices from rising due to these same measures.

Overall, the President’s speech painted a picture of a Guyana that is poised for growth and progress, even as it faces inevitable challenges along the way.

Meanwhile, a group of PPP/C party members laid wreaths at the base of a monument which was erected in memory of Dr. Jagan and his wife, Mrs. Janet Jagan.

The wreaths are a symbol of the party’s commitment to continue the Jagan legacy. The group stood in silence for a few minutes, most likely reflecting on the impact these two great leaders had on the country they loved so dearly.

–– President Ali tells thousands at Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s

–– urges citizens to stand strong against destructive ‘forces’

President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressing thousands at Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s memorial service on Sunday (Adrian Narine photo)

President Ali donates

$2.5M to GT Rotary Club to complete children’s home

WHILE noting that government is willing to partner with the Rotary Club of Georgetown and utilise their skills for the development of the country, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Saturday donated $2.5 million which will be used to complete one of its projects.

The Head of State made this remark as he delivered the feature address at the club’s World Understanding Day dinner held at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston.

During his address, Dr Ali recognised the work that the club has undertaken over the years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said that organisations like the Rotary club are only

alive because of the people who dedicate their time to the respective projects.

As such, he said: “We are willing to partner with you, utilising your skills within your organisation to partner with you in supporting your projects financially.”

He then announced government’s contribution to the tune of $2.5 million which will be used for the completion of a children’s home.

He went on to add that the government wants to integrate the work of the Rotary Club with what the government is doing.

Dr. Ali noted that the government wants to bring more young people on board to advance food security and he stated that to make this

happen, they are investing in technology to push the sector and make it more welcoming.

He said that this is just one way in which they can partner together to seek to position Guyana as an important regional food hub.

Added to this, he indicated that the government is building a healthcare and educational system that is second to none to provide the best possible facilities to Guyanese.

The Head of State told the gathering that this stands as part of the first underlining principle of the ‘One Guyana’ concept which is investing in the people of the country.

“Investing in our peo-

concept is the building of trust and strengthening partnerships.

President Ali explained that its full potential cannot be realised if trust is not built through partnership.

As the President highlighted the importance of

partnerships, he said: “We are outlining a clear strategy through which we will enhance trust through the building of partnerships; religious partnership, social partnership, political partnership, partnership at every level of our society.”

President, Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the Georgetown Rotary Club’s World Understanding Day dinner (Office of the President photo) ple, building our infrastructure, our social services, building our governance system to support all the people of our country; investing in every single Guyanese,” he said. He added that another aspect of the ‘One Guyana’

‘PNC rapidly dying’ – Jagdeo says

–– urges PPP/C supporters to use social media to protect party’s record, fight ‘naysayers’

By Clestine Juan GENERAL Secretary

of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has called on supporters to position themselves on social media platforms to defeat the “rapidly dying” People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) in both the local and the general and regional elections.

For the PPP/C, the Vice-President said that now is a crucial time to implement this strategy as they prepare for Local Government Elections slated for June and the General and Regional Elections in 2025.

He was met with thunderous cheers on Sunday from thousands of persons who flocked Babu John, Port Mourant, Berbice, to remember the party’s late founder and leader, Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

Dr. Jagdeo, while delivering his address, said that somehow in the past the party had let “the narrative” from the “other side” overpower the party, which led to its loss in 2015 after 23 years in power.

However, the party went back into government in a landslide victory in 2020 amidst an attempt from the PNC-led APNU+AFC to steal the elections.

“Somehow in the past, we let the narrative from

the other side overpower us and it led to our demise in 2015. In 2015, they were controlling the narrative. They used social media to distort everything that this party stood for. They even denigrated and changed our track record of progress. They spoke about corruption as a massive campaign tool. We did not do enough in 2015 to fight back against that narrative and it led to our demise.

“So today, when we fight the naysayers, many people think we’re intolerant of criticism. We’re not intolerant of criticism…We are just fighting to defend our records…We will fight tooth and nail every single day to speak about the record and the achievements of this party and if we don’t do it, if all of you who are here don’t set up a Facebook page or an Instagram page or something else and join that fight, they will succeed again…because they have some in the media who support this narrative,” he added.

Dr. Jagdeo said that this approach will give supporters a stronger voice and a louder presence in the political sphere.

By using social media, the party hopes to connect with a diverse range of audiences and engage them in meaningful conversations about their policies, values, and vision for the country.

The PPP/C’s strategic

use of social media is a promising move to engage with voters and counter opposition views. It remains to be seen how effective this approach will be, but it is clear that the PPP/C is taking proactive measures to stay ahead of the competition.

The General Secretary said PPP/C is the only “multi-racial” party, compared to the Opposition which is currently in shambles over the recent racial comments. He accused the party of consistently using the “race card” to mislead its supporters.

It is against this backdrop that Jagdeo said that the PPP/C has historically failed to attract large numbers of Afro-Guyanese due to the falsehoods peddled by the PNC.

“They say the PPP/C is a racist party, but our history, our practices or policies, or philosophy all speak differently. And today, we’re fighting this in every single community.

“It resonates now because when they tried to distort the message in the Afro-Guyanese villages and other communities across the country, they were confronted with a narrative that is very different on the ground because they don’t know that many people in these villages almost every one of these villages, we now have a party group,” Jagdeo added.

He said that by looking at the large multi-ethnic crowd before him, one can see for themselves the party’s diversity today.

Jagdeo said that Aubrey Norton has been the Leader of the Opposition for over one year and the party has already changed two Indo-Guyanese general secretaries and a treasurer.

The VP also mentioned Working People Alliance (WPA)’s Executive member David Hinds’ alleged attempt to disparage a number of PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members for speaking out against racist and incendiary remarks made by WPA.

Hinds had said that the PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members were only there to attract Indo-Guyanese voters.

“That’s their only purpose in the party. Not to promote a multi-ethnic and to respect people of every race and every faith

as this party does. They (PNC/R) saw them as outsiders. That philosophy, the racism of the PNC will lead to their demise, and now they are rapidly dying as an

organisation. At the next elections, not just the local government one. We will prove that definitively in the one in 2025,” Jagdeo said.

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Hook, Line and Sinker!

THE People’s National Congress (PNC) continues to show that it is simply unable (and unwilling) to break with its long history of behaving as if Afro-Guyanese should never vote for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

After President Cheddi Jagan died in March 1996, the PNC violently opposed the nomination of his wife, Janet, as its candidate for the presidency, despite her having all the necessary credentials as the longest-serving parliamentarian in the National Assembly.

She was a member of the PPP’s Central and Executive Committee and its Political Bureau for decades -- and was Prime Minister when selected to lead the PPP into the next national elections. But after 55 years in Guyana politics, the PNC would suddenly discover (in 1996) that Prime Minister Jagan was not born in Guyana -- and therefore (by their crooked measurement) did not qualify to become its first woman President.

The violent nature of the PNC’s opposition to Mrs. Jagan’s selection

and election led to mediation by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), resulting to the two-term limit for future Guyana presidents.

Uncertain of its ability to win any free and fair election after democracy returned in 1992, the PNC held on to the term-limit recommendation like a gift of manna from the heavens.

The protests were so racially-grounded that the aging second President Jagan only served less than half her term -- December 19, 1997 to August 11, 1999 – after which the PPP chose its youngest available candidate, then Finance Minister, Bharrat Jagdeo.

The PNC kept its race guns aimed at President Jagdeo throughout his two terms, accusing him of developing Guyana only for Indo-Guyanese. But Guyanese voters, including Afro-Guyanese who’d earlier supported the PNC, kept their trust in the PPP/C’s leadership and after the term-limits provision kicked-in, voted for Dr Jagdeo’s successor, President Donald Ramotar.

The PNC-led opposition coali-

tion used their one-seat parliamentary majority to cripple the Ramotar administration for its entire fiveyear term.

The David Granger administration spent the next five years proving, yet again, that PNC-led administrations are always less-interested in improving the lives of Afro-Guyanese, as in their own privileges.

Eventually, the outgoing APNU+AFC administration did the unthinkable and accused the then opposition of stealing its 2020 victory. The rest is ugly Guyana history.

Today, with Local Government Elections (LGE) in June, the PNC (and what’s left of the WPA) are both playing the usual race card, this time absolutely refusing to condemn a racial call for violence and mutiny by the nation’s armed forces – just because their policy seems to be that as long as a PPP/C administration is in office, anything is fair game, including preaching violence in the name of “Freedom of Speech”.

That everyone else who will call

a spade a spade has condemned the recent race-baiting call-to-arms, is commendable.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, did not mix words last week to describe the actions of those who claim to speak for Guyanese who look like him and he thoroughly exposed the dirty linen being offered as clean clothes by the usual suspects.

The opposition continues going to all and any lengths to disrupt the growing evidence of wider national appreciation of the economic progress and racial harmony being achieved under this Dr Irfaan Aliled administration.

But Guyanese who lived through the five long years and stolen five months under the last administration are again showing clearer signs they will reject those who persistently sow only national discord.

Meanwhile, it’s quite clear that the race-baiters fishing for political relevance are again well-underway to losing everything in just three months – but this time: Hook, line and sinker!

The tenure of the Press Association’s executive body has long expired

Dear Editor,

I DECIDED to pen this letter in the hopes that it will be read by the de facto President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), who has failed to hold elections since it was constitutionally due in January 2020.

The GPA President, who is most aggressive in attempting to hold the

government accountable is, in fact, practising the complete opposite.

In February 2022, the de facto President is on record as saying that elections will be called before the end of the year. We are now in 2023, and there have been no elections.

She has not engaged with members of her Association about the cause of the delay, and no one knows why she continues to hold on to

power.

Editor, I find it most appalling that the de facto President participated in the recent elections of the Association of Caribbean Media Workers, where she’s served as the President (2021-2023), when she cannot call elections in her own backyard.

Many people in the media are also shocked at the silence of the remaining three veteran journalists who

are serving as executive members, despite their tenure with the Press Association being expired.

The executive of the GPA has been reduced to a four-man show, and I hope that the de facto President does the right thing and calls the much-needed elections.

Yours respectfully, Concerned media worker

Editor Navendra Seoraj

By Shaquawn Gill

AS the world moves away from products that are heavily backed by fossil fuels and embraces the technological advancement of the global economy, Chinese companies have

pany.

The newest addition to its line of products is the AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things), found in the company’s Smart Home systems. Day-to-day products such as vacuums, air fryers, humidifiers, TVs,

Caribbean countries

on the horizon

Chinese companies making inroads in AI technology –– expansion to

to be the “language of the future”.

This initiative was made a reality through a partnership with the United Arab Emirates, another leader in the technological arena.

Furthermore, the Guy-

begun to make significant inroads into the Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry.

This was particularly evident in China’s Haidian District, an area located within the capital city of Beijing. The district is known as the international centre for scientific and technical innovation.

Haidian is home to the country’s first national hightech industry park called the Zhongguancun Science and Technology Park, 14 national incubators for hightech enterprises, 19 other university science and technology parks, as well as 21 entrepreneurship parks.

Pony.ai, QCraft and Xiaomi are three companies in this district that are breaking barriers in technology.

Among the many services in AI being offered, QCraft has become a world-leading provider of general autonomous driving solutions – simply referring to the creation of cars that drive on their own and without the assistance of humans.

These vehicles are equipped with numerous sensors, cameras, and other critical pieces of motion equipment that ensure the safety of those travelling.

Xiaomi, on the other hand, has been leading from the front for several years, establishing itself as a top-tier multibillion-dollar com-

fans, and light bulbs have all been modified to become easier to operate through the company’s advanced AI technology.

Excited about this new technology, Guyanese media professional Suelle Findlay-Williams, who is on a 4-month study visit to China, expressed her enthusiasm about this technology soon being available on Guyanese soil.

“Our government is determinedly working to improve access to technology and has been breaking new ground. I am confident that AI technology is also on the horizon for us as well. The possibilities are endless, and the progress is unstoppable”, the longstanding media professional explained.

Senior officials of these and other companies have confirmed that there is an intention to extend their products and services to the Caribbean region.

To further enhance its own local capacity in the areas of Artificial Intelligence and new, modern technology, the Government of Guyana has already made significant investments.

Most recently, the 150k Coders Initiative was launched by Guyana’s President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. This programme will see up to 150,000 Guyanese being versed in the areas of coding, which is known

China has been making significant progress in developing its Artificial Technology (AI) capabilities

ana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) has seen some 13,000 scholarships being distributed, with a significant portion going towards programmes in computer science, AI, and other

areas of digital technology.

The PPP/C administration also announced the signing of a US $34M contract for the creation of an electronic identification system.

The system will also assist government and private sector agencies with the issuance of important documentation and services that will better the lives of all Guyanese.

One of the driver-less cars built in China

Baby’s death: Owner of Ogle daycare on station bail

– police to send file to DPP

THE owner of Little Learning Day Care at Ogle, East Coast Demerara where seven-monthold Oriyah Gravesande spent the last few hours of her life, has been released on cash bail and a file will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) today for advice.

Police said, in a statement on Sunday, that a joint investigation was conducted by investigators from the Guyana Police Force and the Child Care and Protection Agency, Ministry of Human Service and Social Protection, and a file was compiled.

It added that legal advice will be sought today.

In its update on the matter, the police said that the owner is on cash bail and is reporting daily at the Sparendaam Police

Station.

Guyana Chronicle understands that the facility has been operating for over two decades without the proper documentation. Following the death of the infant, it was closed down.

Last Tuesday, it was

reported that the baby died after she fell from a bed and became tangled between the sheets.

However, a post-mortem revealed that she died due to hemorrhaging and compression to the neck.

In an invited comment to reporters at the hospital, the baby’s distraught father, Odysseus Clement said that the family is seeking answers.

“The results are haemorrhage to the head and compression to the neck… So, therefore, the baby fell off of the bed on the right side and the baby was strangled…. It [Oriyah] couldn’t get to breathe,” the father said.

He added: “We check out the place [the daycare] but when time meet fuh go inside, they block my wife from going inside and they convince we that people pop up any time to

see if it in standard.”

Clement said that they are still trying to piece everything together since

the daycare is still not forthcoming about the child’s death.

“I need justice… I

don’t want other parents to go through this pain because, it ain’t easy,” the grieving father said.

MARKET prices for some vegetables, fruits and meat products appear to be returning to a more affordable cost

The Guyana Chronicle, on Sunday morning, visited the markets at Mon Repos, Bourda and Stabroek, where vendors confirmed the decrease and increase in prices for some fruits and vegetables.

The price for a large bundle of bora varied from $200- $500, while the price for a piece of pumpkin varied from $340 to $460. Tomatoes were priced at $200 per pound, while two cucumbers were being sold for $100.

Meanwhile, high-valued vegetables such has broccoli and ‘purple’ cabbage were both priced at $1600 per pound.

Vendors usually set their prices based on how much they paid for the goods. Other factors are sometimes taken into consideration. Fruits on the other hand, were priced at a more reasonable cost with bananas being sold at $380 per pound. A parcel of five small apples were being sold for $500, while the price of grapes varied from $1000-$1200 per pound.

Meat prices, however, appeared to have increased with chicken being sold at different prices.

Some stalls had chicken priced at $480 per pound,

while others went as high as $600. Mince beef was priced at $800 per pound, while regular beef was priced at $900.

A tray of eggs was priced at $1200-$1500.

Salt fish was being sold at $1000 per pound, while a parcel of fresh trout and small bangamary was priced at $2000.

In a recent report, the Guyana Marketing Corporation stated that consumers can look forward to seeing commodities being sold at more stable prices as farmers are expected to experience more favourable weather condition in the coming months, which is expected to inspire increased production.

In addition to that, the report noted that food production in Guyana will continue to attract further investments in 2023 that will improve

overall productivity in

sector.

In September 2022, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, announced that Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean will benefit from a US$28 million investment from the United States (US) Government that will support increased food production and agriculture development in the region.

Food security continues to be a paramount policy initiative for the Government of Guyana, which holds lead responsibility for agriculture, agricultural diversification, and food security in CARICOM, and is spearheading the regional body’s quest to reduce its food-import bill; this is an action that requires each state achieving a reduction in food-import of 25 per cent by 2025.

the

Most ‘greens’ prices remain stable –– prices for fruits, meat vary

The day-care facility (Joseph Allen Photo)

Little Oriyah Gravesande

Access to Victoria farmlands to be made easier with new all-weather road

THE farmers of Victoria, East Coast Demerara, will soon benefit from better access to their farmlands through the construction of an all-weather farmto-market road as the government moves towards improving and increasing production to further develop the agriculture sector.

According to a Ministry of Agriculture press release, this was disclosed by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Saturday, during an outreach which was led by Prime Minister (Ret’d), Mark Phillips and included several other Cabinet Ministers.

that process has commenced so that we can commence construction of that all-weather farmto-market road in Victoria to take you to the farm. We’ll do one mile of all-weather road on the Victoria middle walk that stretches from the end of the housing area all the way up to the farming area,” he was quoted as saying.

Minister Mustapha explained that the project was tendered and that the contract will be awarded soon.

power you so that you can once again become productive,” he added.

During an outreach to the community shortly after assuming office, Minister Mustapha engaged farmers and conducted an assessment of many of the affected areas in Victoria, the release said, adding that on that occasion the farmers used the opportunity to seek the government’s assistance with the restoration of agriculture-related activities, citing years of neglect of critical drainage and irrigation infrastructure. The minister committed to having emergency work

Farmers also said that the sluice here needed rehabilitation. We have since built a brand-new stainless-steel door at a cost of $22 million to install at the Victoria sluice.

Today, that sluice is

operable and you are getting drainage. We also, from the NDIA, allocate $17.6 million annually to the Golden Grove – Victoria Water Users’ Association for the maintenance of

drainage and irrigation canals. So, you can see that we’ve been making resources available and we’ll continue to do so,” Minister Mustapha said according to the press release.

Scores of residents attended the ministerial outreach in Victoria where they were updated on government’s development plans for the village and surrounding communities

During his address to the large gathering which comprised farmers and residents of Victoria and other surrounding communities, Minister Mustapha said that the ministry, through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), has commenced the process for the construction of an all-weather farm-to-market road so that farmers can have better access to their farmlands.

“This year, we’ll continue the development in this community. When I visited this community, you made a request for an all-weather road. I want to tell you that it has been approved and

Once completed, approximately 300 cash crop and other farmers will benefit, he said.

Minister Mustapha also said that farmers from East Coast villages like Victoria have an important role to play in the government’s food security agenda.

With Guyana playing that leading role in CARICOM’s food security agenda, Minister Mustapha said that efforts will be made to ensure farmers are empowered to be productive.

“We are working to become food secure, and you the farmers on the East Coast of Demerara have to play a big part. We know, for a fact, that the East Coast (of Demerara) was once a very productive area in our country and we will em-

done in the area.

Additional works were also done after engineers from the NDIA and extension officers from the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) conducted a needs assessment in the farming communities.

“When I became minister, Victoria was one of the first villages I visited because I know the agricultural history of the area. Farmers met with me and made requests for better drainage. Our engineers from the NDIA came and did an evaluation and we then desilted all the drainage canals in the community.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, interacts with a resident (Ministry of Agriculture photos)

Chinese Medical Brigade donates to mother of triplets

DR. Jiang Yuan, a member of the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade and Obstetrics and Gynecology consultant from Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital in China, recently performed a cesarean section on a triplet pregnancy at Georgetown Public Hospital. However, the family’s situation became more difficult to handle when it was discovered that the mother was unemployed and facing financial difficulties, with three babies to support.

Responding to the situation, the 18th Chinese medical Brigade contacted Shan-

dong Dejian International E&T Cooperation (Guyana) Inc., a Chinese-funded company, to donate nutritional supplements, baby formula, diapers, clothes, and other items, which are worth GYD 300,000. The donation aims to help the family go through this challenging time.

Mr. Yang Xian, the General Manager of Shandong Dejian Branch in Guyana, expressed his hope to participate in more charity and social responsibility activities in Guyana. He said that the company has been paying much attention to the wellbeing and livelihood of the

Guyanese people. The 18th Chinese Medical Brigade has been providing medical assistance to the Guyanese people for 30 years. They have consistently supported disadvantaged and vulnerable groups in education and daily life. This charity donation highlights the unwavering dedication of

the Chinese Medical Brigade in Guyana, which has been highly valued and praised by the government and people in Guyana.

The donation is part of the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade’s celebration of its 30th anniversary of service to Guyanese.

Dr. Jiang Yuan’s suc-

cessful cesarean section on a triplet pregnancy and the subsequent donation by Shandong Dejian International E&T Cooperation (Guyana) Inc. is a heartwarming example of the cooperation and generosity between China and Guyana in the medical and social welfare sectors.

Obstetrics and Gynaecology consultant, Dr. Jiang Yuan (second from right) flanked by members of the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade and officials from the Chinese-funded donor company with the supplies handed over to the mother of the triplets

Edghill slams previous administration for neglecting Region

10

–– says new concrete road at Amelia’s Ward part of a $229M project

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill, on Saturday said that, with the continued investments in Region 10, the government has done more for the region than the previous administration did during their time in office.

He made this remark at the commissioning of a new concrete road at Bamia Drive, Amelia’s Ward on Saturday, where he revealed that more of this type of road will be constructed in the region.

The commissioning of the road, according to Edghill signals loudly and clearly what Central Government is doing and gives a clear understanding of what residents of the region can expect for the future.

He noted that, in 2022, he announced that residents would see the visible signs of what the government has said will be done in the area. He said that during that year some $1.3 billion was spent in the region for road development works.

“I had indicated that what Central Government is doing for Region 10 in one year which was 2022, was twice or more than what was accomplished in the five preceding years,” Edghill said.

He said that the road that was being commissioned is not included in the $1.3 billion sum he had mentioned earlier, but is rather part of an additional $229 million that was allocated to the region through a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Local

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, during the commissioning of Bamia Drive, Amelia’s Ward (Ministry of Public Works photos)

Government and Regional Development and the Ministry of Housing and Water for road development works.

With the intended development for the community, Minister Edghill said that the government responded based on the views that were expressed while rolling out this first phase of the project as many persons, specifically in Amelia’s Ward, were concerned about drainage issues and the durability of the roads.

He acknowledged that the community has had issues with drainage for quite some time and he indicated that the government was still

pursuing solutions to prevent issues that arise as a result of the poor drainage.

One of those solutions would be moving the road construction type from asphaltic concrete roads to rigid pavement concrete which he noted is more likely to hold up to the weather conditions and water flow while the authorities seek to establish and develop a drainage network.

Meanwhile, Minister Edghill told the gathering that the government has awarded contracts for five additional roads in the region.

“There are some advantages with the concrete road; it is more durable, it could

be a little bit more costly in the initial stages, but maintenance in the long run will be less as compared to the asphaltic concrete roads,” he added.

With this, the Public Works Minister noted that since the construction of concrete roads does not require many specialists, contractors look to hire persons within the communities to do the work.

He said that the Bamia Drive, Amelia’s Ward road was merely phase one and shortly engineers will return to complete a second phase and further expand the road network.

An aerial view of Bamia Drive

Scenes from Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s memorial service captured

by Adrian Narine

Women urged to report workplace discrimination, sexual harassment

GUYANESE women are being urged to report instances of discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace to the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC).

WGEC Chairperson, Indranie Chandarpaul, on the sidelines of an event last week told reporters that the Commission continues to face challenges in addressing the issue of women being harassed in the workplace, since many don’t come forward to make a report.

While calls have been made previously, no reports have been made for the year thus far.

“The problem that we have is that there is discrimination, or sexual harassment at workplaces; we all know that, but no one is bold enough to come forward,” Chandarpaul said.

She reminded that mechanisms are in place to handle reports, as well as to penalise perpetrators.

“We also wanted those who were engaged in sexual harassment; men [or] whoever is harassing women in

the workplace to be mindful that there is a mechanism in place. It’s a two-way process; one for the victim and one for the perpetrator/s,” she said.

“We as a Commission look at the issue and we make recommendations in our report to parliament and when we send that report to parliament, parliament is required to look at that report and send it to the relevant agencies and then they are supposed to take action with respect to that. Once it happens, we want to tell the public that it will be treated in the strictest confidence,” she added.

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), more than one in five people (almost 23 per cent) who are employed have experienced violence and harassment at work, whether physical, psychological or sexual.

In 2022, the ILO, in collaboration with several other agencies, conducted a joint analysis, which highlighted that violence and harassment at work is difficult to

Jehovah’s Witnesses to discuss ‘Facing the Future with Confidence’

IN the face of widespread economic strain, national conflicts and social unrest, surveys indicate that confidence in the future is at an all-time low in many countries.

WGEC Chairperson Indranie Chandarpal

measure.

Their report found that only half of the victims worldwide had disclosed their experiences to someone else, and often only after they had suffered more than one form of violence and harassment.

The most common reasons given for non-disclosure were “waste of time” and “fear for their reputation”.

Women were more likely to share their experiences than men (60.7 per cent compared to 50.1 per cent).

According to the report, globally, 17.9 per cent of employed men and women said they had experienced psychological violence and harassment in their working life, and 8.5 per cent had faced physical violence and harassment, with more men than women experiencing this. Of respondents, 6.3 per cent reported facing sexual violence and harassment, with women being particularly exposed.

According to the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer, 24 of the 28 countries surveyed are seeing “all-time lows in the number of people who think their families will be better off in five years.”

Against this backdrop of pessimism, a special global programme featuring the theme, “You Can Face the Future with Confidence!” will be held on the weekend of April 1-2, 2023.

The free 30-minute pre-

sentation will be hosted at the Kingdom Halls of Jehovah’s Witnesses, with a videoconferencing option available. The “Attend a Meeting” section on the homepage of JW.ORG can provide local addresses and meeting times.

“The challenges we face may seem overwhelming, but the Bible holds out a powerful hope for the future that can help us right now,” said Andre Darrell, a local spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “This global program is designed to give all those who attend tangible reasons to face the future with confidence.”

The special talk is the first of two free programmes to be held in all 118,000

congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses during the first week of April.

The public is also invited to join nearly 20 million other global attendees for the annual observance of the Memorial of Jesus Christ’s death, to be held on the evening of Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

Admission to both programmes is free, and no registration is required. Details on when and where these events will be held locally are available on JW.ORG, the official website of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Andre Darrell can be contacted at adarrell@ jw.org or on 617-9089.

The Special Talk will be held on the weekend of April 1-2, followed by the Memorial on Tuesday, April 4.

‘You have a gov’t that is big on action’ – PM Phillips

– says Dr Jagan served as a pillar of change

GUYANA will continue to see large-scale development, on a steady trajectory to prosperity, under the stewardship of a government committed to ‘more action, and less

talk’.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips made this statement on Sunday at Babu Jaan, Corentyne, Berbice at a ceremony held in obser-

vance of the late former president, Dr Cheddi Jagan’s 26th death anniversary and 105th birth anniversary.

“Throughout his career, he was committed to

building a Guyana based on equality, regardless of race, religion, and regardless of whichever part of Guyana you come from. He was committed to improving the lives of all Guyanese, especially the working people,” PM Phillips said.

He highlighted the multi-ethnic composition of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), serves as a testament to the diversity and inclusivity that characterises the party, as people from all walks of life come together to work towards the common good.

PM Phillips assured those in attendance that this PPP/C Government will continue to leave a legacy of stewardship built on the principles of integrity, unity, equality and democracy, following in the footsteps of Dr Jagan.

“We are following the principles of comrade Cheddi because he believed that democracy was important for the development of Guyana,” he said.

Former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan served as a pillar of change, dedicated to the principles of democracy and human rights.

PM Phillips identified Dr Jagan and his wife, Janet Jagan as champions of autonomy, adding that the pair paved the way for the kind of large-scale development Guyana enjoys today.

“He would be proud of the socioeconomic policies and interventions of our government, led by

Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. We are a government that, in the face of a pandemic, brought relief to all the people of Guyana.”

The prime minister assured that the PPP/C Government will continue to implement policies aimed at improving the lives and livelihood of all Guyanese across all sectors.

“This is a government that has been using the resources, especially from the oil and gas industry, to bring accelerated development to all the people of Guyana,” the PM added.

Dr Cheddi Jagan, born in 1918 in Port Mourant, Berbice, was the son of Indian immigrants who came to the colony to work on the sugar plantation. Despite his challenging upbringing, Dr Jagan excelled both academically and socially and went on to become qualified as a dentist in the United States.

However, guided by a strong sense of patriotism, instead of pursuing a career in dentistry, Dr Jagan returned to Guyana in 1943, where he spearheaded the country’s campaign for independence from the British. He also advocated for increased powers for trade unions at a time when powerful foreign entities dominated the then British Guiana’s economy.

His legacy has left a blueprint for the continued fight for social justice, a symbol of hope for the oppressed and marginalised. (DPI)

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips during his address on Sunday at Babu Jaan, Corentyne, Berbice

– was dedicated to principles of democracy, human rights

Couple of 53 years among 166 benefitting from free glasses

HUSBAND and wife of 53 years, Ivan and Juliet Bennet, were among 166 persons from Region One to receive free tested spectacles from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through the Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU).

A team from the ministry led by subject Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, visited the communities of Mabaruma and Moruca last March 24 to provide these lens to those in need, particularly children, pensioners and single parents.

Juliet said: “It was challenging [without spectacles]. I’m not young to work anymore and depending on old age pension so I can’t afford it. It is going to improve my life because although I am old, I am doing needle work, making pillow case, table cloth and so on and this spectacles will help me to see the needle eye because I punish to thread the needle so it would help me in every way and when I go to church it would help me to read because I couldn’t read without it.”

Ivan noted: “For me, I am happy, we used to get visit from the doctors and they didn’t come in a very long time, then was the first time I got my eyes checked and I got spectacles that didn’t last very long and I am happy the Ministry came in because we had to travel out two or three times if we wanted to get. I must thank the Ministry of Human Services for these spectacles, I am happy to be able to see very clear.”

Minister Persaud said: “It is all about making sure that you have good vision, so you are able to study harder and better and be able to do all the work you want to do, especially if it involves reading.”

Samantha Matthews, a teacher from the Santa Rosa Primary School where over 50 students benefitted from the programme said: “We are very happy for this initiative. I know the parents would be very happy because it is very costly to go on the coastland to get these things done and now they get it right in their own

area. First of all, some of the children have problem with their eyes and when they do tests and in school they would complain about the pain in their eyes, and I think now they will have better results and see better.”

Through the DCU, several assistive aids were also distributed in these communities to help persons with permanent disabilities to improve their quality of life.

“In line with our policy as a ministry to ensure persons with permanent disabilities have a better quality of life, we are directly contributing through Government’s budgetary allocation in bringing these aids to you in the form of wheelchairs, walkers, white canes and more.

“When I first came here as a Minister, people were wondering how can they afford a wheelchair or walker, it was a lot of difficulty to access this and I can say from 2020, people do not have to wonder, you can request it and it is brought to you and if you live in close proximity to the Ministry, you can uplift it,” Minister Persaud said.

Head of DCU, Jashudra Seeram said: “We are elated to see how our programmes positively impacts the lives of our citizens. This is in keeping with fulfilling the Ministry’s mandate of service to the people, we were here a few weeks ago to do the testing and assessment in the shortest possible time, we are back to fulfill our commitment to ensure persons get the much-needed assistance. As a Ministry, we are happy to be able to see the lives of people improved.”

Meanwhile, over 500 persons across the two locations benefitted from sessions that enlightened them about the services offered by the ministry such as childcare and protection, trafficking in persons, sexual offences, domestic violence and gender affairs.

Persons also utilised the opportunity to seek out advice and clarification on their old age pension and public assistance.

Husband and wife of 53 years, Ivan and Juliet Bennet, were among 166 persons from Region One to receive free, tested spectacles.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday March 27, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS

ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 GARNETT STREET, CAMPBELLVILLE, GEORGETOWN (TEL: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Dwayne Bravo-15 wickets (16 matches)

(2) David Wiese-10 wickets (4 matches)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in T20 Int’ls against SA to date?

(2) Which SA wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in T20 Int’ls against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

South Africa Racing Tips

Greyville 08:20 hrs Bay Breeze

08:55 hrs

09:35

Will

Guyana’s first-of-a-kind Golf Course set to open in Region Three --designed

THE soon-to-open West Side Golf Course, located at Crane, in Region Three, will bring many firsts to the region and Guyana.

It will be the region’s and Guyana’s first and the only scaled, links- styled public golf course that is open for play to every Guyanese without membership requirements under the Nexgen GolFUN brand, and was designed and built by a Guyanese golf pro and executive, Aleem Hussain.

It is set for an April 1, 2023 opening

The West Side Golf Course is conveniently located two kilometers from the Vreed-en-Hoop junction, in the middle of the massive development for the gas-to-shore project, and the new highway connection to the Harbour Bridge. It offers lots of parking, a challenging layout, and brisk, cool Atlantic breeze throughout most of the day.

Course designer Hussain, who is also President of the Guyana Golf Association (GGA), single-mindedly focused on building the sport in Guyana, and, to his credit, despite the many obstacles faced, the incredible results are plain to see.

Over the past two years, the GGA and Nexgen Golf Academy has trained 155 PE Teachers in eight of the 10 regions around the country, coached 116 students to pass golf at the CSEC examinations, entered into partnership

agreements with the Texas Golf Association, LPGA Foundation, and USGA, and provided access to over 8,000 persons (over 60% female) to experience the sport.

Additionally, due to the rapid growth of the sport in such a short time, Guyana Golf was featured in the Guiname Magazine and Golf Global, the Japanese golf magazine produced by the owner of Honda.

Hussain said, “Designing a golf course is no easy task; it involves a great deal of vision, skill, planning and creativity. But when you add the fact that it has to be built when there’s no model to copy, then one realises just how much time, money and dedication it takes to accomplish such a goal.”

His goal is to revolutionise golf along the lines of 20/20 Cricket, making play faster, more fun, and accessible to every Guyanese at an affordable rate.

The exclusive unique design uses just eight acres of land, which can be situated closer to populated areas for easy access by students and beginners. It offers three fairways, six tee boxes and five greens wrapped around a lake that provides irrigation, drainage and aesthetic appeal

Asked about what drives his desire for golf development in Guyana, Hussain said, “This is a fulfillment of a promise to my mom and family, and to

all those who believed and supported my vision over the past few years

“I especially wish to thank my staff, the coaches, sponsors, donors and the media for their support. I’d be remiss if I didn’t recognise the efforts by Minister of Education, Honourable Priya Manickchand and Mr. Kurt Braithwaite, Unit of Allied Arts for their unwavering support for golf development.”

With the growth of the sport over the past few years, due to the exclusive efforts of GGA, Nexgen Golf Academy and the Ministry of Education Unit of Allied Arts, there is a desperate need for playing facilities to accommodate the large numbers of players, especially those who cannot afford access to a private golf club.

The goal of Nexgen Golf is to build another five such facilities across the country over the next two years. This model-type facility can host cricket, football, fishing, picnicking and other community activities , in addition to golf. So, it serves multiple purposes for the region.

The land was made available through an arrangement with Mr. Ronald Sami, a former teacher who wanted to leave a legacy for his family and schoolchildren in the area. Additional amenities will be developed by the Sami family to enhance the golf course in the near future.

Historic ‘Queen Side’ girls’ chess camp held last Saturday

Shallow to head CWI; Bassarath elected as VP

THE Guyana Women in Chess Community’s (WICC) core goal is to close the gender parity gap in the game. Great strides towards achieving this was made with a landmark event last Saturday with the Jumbo Jet Auto Sales sponsored ‘Queen Side’ girls’ chess camp.

This one-day chess camp, organised by the WICC, is the first-ever girls-only chess camp hosted in the history of the Guyana Chess Federation, and had an impressive turnout of nearly 50 women and girls.

The event, which was held at Duke Lodge, provided up-and-coming players with a chance to learn chess tactics and get advice from more experienced players in a relaxed and casual setting. This event exceeded expectations in terms of participation and engagement, where over 40 girls under the age of 18 registered for the camp.

The girls also had the chance to play against each other, and receive feedback, with an emphasis on building confidence and developing skills in a supportive and friendly environment.

Most of the experienced female chess players, WCM Sheriffa Ali, Anaya Lall, Italy Ton- Chung, Aniyah Couchman, Angel Rahim and Maliha Rajkumar were on hand to provide instruction and guidance to participants, covering basic chess tactics and strategies, and offering tips on how to improve their game.

This event was sponsored by Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, along with Sunshine Snacks, Nadeem Khan and Associates, Duke Lodge and Banks DIH Limited.

(CWI) - Dr. Kishore Shallow and Azim Bassarath have been elected to the posts of President and Vice-President, respectively, of Cricket West Indies (CWI). They will serve two-year terms.

The election process was conducted as one of the key items on the agenda of the 24th Annual General Meeting of CWI, which was held on Saturday 25, March, 2023 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Dr. Shallow said: “On behalf of Cricket West Indies, I sincerely thank the outgoing President, Ricky Skerritt, for his latest contribution to our beloved cricket. He has served with distinction and pride in one of the most challenging periods in our lifetime, the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure has certainly moved us in the right direction.”

He added: “The resounding vote of confidence demonstrated by the shareholders is heartening. My profound gratitude to them and all the stakeholders for supporting me throughout the electoral process. As I embark on this new role with Vice-President Bassarath, there is no delusion about the considerable workload. My philosophy remains one of unity and inclusivity, for it is only if we pool our resources and efforts together will West Indies cricket make any meaningful advancement as a cricket nation.”

Bassarath said: “It is indeed an honour to be elected to serve as the Vice-President of Cricket West Indies, and I look forward to working alongside Dr. Shallow and the other members of the Board of Directors, as we continue the good work done by Mr. Skerritt for the benefit of everyone involved in West Indies Cricket.”

In addition to the election for President and Vice-President, the following persons were duly elected as Member Directors of CWI:

Jason King – Barbados Cricket Association

Conde Riley: Barbados Cricket Association

Bissoondyal Singh: Guyana Cricket Board

Deleep Singh: Guyana Cricket Board

Dr. Donovan Bennett: Jamaica Cricket Association

Wilford Heaven: Jamaica Cricket Association

Enoch Lewis: Leeward Islands Cricket Board

Leon Rodney: Leeward Islands Cricket Board

Kerwin John: Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board

Arjoon Ramlal: Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board

Dwain Gill: Windward Islands Cricket Board

Carol Henry: Windward Islands Cricket Board

and built by Guyanese

The participants of the Historic ‘Queen Side’ girls’ chess camp

Raghoo, said the donation was part of its Corporate Social Responsibility and wished Lewis well in all of his games, while promising the youth continued assistance in the future.

“Kaylex Enterprises Guyana are the Agents of Schréder, which is a leading independent outdoor lighting solution provider worldwide. Our expertise includes industrial, sports, road, smart lighting for cities and communities, bridges, urban areas and decorative. As the leading independent outdoor lighting solution provider worldwide, we believe that lighting can empower people, impact lives, support communities, and transform spaces.

Kaylex Enterprise (Guy.) donates gear to national U-15 selectee

KAYLEX Enterprise

(Guy.), at a simple ceremony held at the Transport Sport Club (TSC) last Saturday, presented a cricket bag and cricket batting

pads to TSC’s all-rounder, Emmanuel Lewis.

Lewis has been selected to represent Guyana in the upcoming Regional U-15 cricket tournament

TATT’s Easter Tennis Grand Prix…

Guyana’s Scotland qualifies for main draw today

while Coach Andre Erskine lost 6/0,6/2 to the 2019 U35 champion Damien Applewaite of Barbados.

Coach Andre Erskine and his partner, Trinidadian Steffon Ramsingh lost in the quarterfinal of the men’s 35 doubles to the Number Two seeds of the tournament.

In the evening games, Thomas Chung (TT) defeated Navindra Arjune (GUY) 3/6,6/4, 11/9, and Jayden Mitchell (TT) defeated Denzel Luthers (GUY) 6/2,6/2 in round one qualifying.

According to Coach Erskine, the main draw starts today, and will conclude on Thursday, while the U-18s division will commence on Saturday, before the U-14s travel to Barbados.

By Sean Devers GUYANA’S

Lewis thanked the company for its timely gesture, which he said will aid him in his endeavors to proudly represent Guyana. The Company’s representative, Densil

We are experts at using light to its fullest potential, to bring meaningful moments to people in public spaces” explained Raghoo. (Sean Devers)

Ambassador to Qatar crowned champion of Ramadan Table Tennis Championship

AMBASSADOR of the Republic of Guyana Safraaz

Ahmad was crowned champion for the first edition of Ramadan Table Tennis Championship for Ambassadors after defeating Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia Drago Lovric at the Lusail Sports Hall.

A number of ambassadors accredited to the State of Qatar took part in the tournament organised by Qatar Table Tennis Association (QTTA).

Saturday’s 60 matches that were played on seven tables saw Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia Drago Lovric, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru Jose Benzaquen Perea, and Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti Jean-Marie Francois Junior Guillaume advancing to the semi-finals.

President of the QTTA

Khalil bin Ahmed Al Mohannadi expressed his happiness with the distinguished atmosphere witnessed by the tournament in its first edition.

Al Mohannadi, who is also President of the Arab

and Asian Table Tennis Unions, and First Vice-President of the International Table Tennis Federation, told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the QTTA decided to organise the tournament after the ambassadors welcomed the idea to be added to the QTTA’s annual Ramadan tournaments.

The participation of 24 ambassadors in the first edition is wonderful, and everyone witnessed the distinguished atmosphere during the competitions, Al Mohannadi said, voicing hopes that the tournament would be organised in all Ramadan seasons.

Assistant Secretary of

the QTTA, Ali Sultan Al Muftah hailed the competitiveness of the tournament, adding that the great interest of the ambassadors in the international and professional tournaments organised in Qatar prompted the QTTA to organise this Ramadan tournament. (Gulftimes.com)

15-year-old Gerald

Scotland qualified for his first ITF main draw event, after defeating Tim Pasea (TT) 6/3, 4/6, 10/5.

Scotland bounced back from being down 0/5 in the super tie break, before winning 10 consecutive points to win the match at the National Racquet Sports Centre in Tacarigua, Trinidad, on Saturday.

Scotland had defeated Yeshowah Campbell-Smith(TT) 6/3,6/0 to advance to the second round in the qualifying phase of the tournament,

“The tournament attracted players from Guyana, Trinidad, Australia, USA, Brazil, and Peru, among other countries, and is of a very high standard. The sports facilities here (T&T) are of international standard, and this tennis facility in Tacarigua is amazing.

The players have come to the realisation of how far behind Guyana’s tennis is. However, despite the fact that we are lacking the much-needed facilities and court time, it’s amazing to see our players making such an impact,” said Coach Erskine, whose Tennis Club is located in the village of Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara.

De Kock shafts West Indies again

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Quinton de Kock’s first T20I hundred - and joint sixth-fastest in the format off 43 balls - helped South Africa complete the highest successful chase in T20Is. De Kock’s knock came in the second half of a run-fest on a belter of a pitch at SuperSport Park.

In total, 517 runs were scored, the most in a T20 game, including 35 sixes, the most in a T20 international and two fewer than the most in any T20 match.

Johnson Charles was responsible for 11 of those sixes as he blasted his way to the joint second-fastest T20I century, and fastest by a West Indian, as they posted their highest score in the format. In the end, it was not enough.

It was a tough day for bowlers on both sides, who struggled to get their lengths right. Only Kagiso Rabada conceded at under ten runs an over and there were poor discipline on both sides, especially by West Indies. They bowled 10 wides and a no-ball compared to South Africa’s four wides and may see that as an important difference in the final result.

The series decider will be played about 40 kilometres away, at the Wanderers, on Tuesday.

Charles and Mayers do a demolition job

The early dismissal of Brandon King dissolved into a footnote when Kyle Mayers and Charles got together for an exhibition of power-hitting that dismantled the home attack. Marco Jansen’s opening over cost 20, as Charles peppered the off side and Sisanda Magala’s first over went for 21 runs thanks to a merciless Mayers. He hit the biggest six of the innings when he sent Sisanda Magala 114 metres over midwicket, with the ball carrying over the hospitality suite roofs and into the practice nets. Charles brought up his fifty off 23 balls when he hit Tabraiz Shamsi over square leg; Mayers followed with a 24-ball fifty, and also brought his milestone up against Shamsi.

West Indies were 62 for1 after the powerplay and 137 for 1 after the first 10 overs, which was their fastest start in a T20I. The openers were separated at the start of the 11th over, when Mayers miscued a pull off Jansen, but, by then, they had shared the third-highest stand for West Indies in T20I cricket - all three having been against against South Africa - and plundered 135 runs in 58 balls at a scoring rate of just under 14 runs an over.

Director of KE (Guy.), Densil Raghoo (3rd from right), presents the gear to Emanuel Lewis (2nd from left) as well-wishers watch on (Sean Devers photo)

Garfield Scotland

‘Guyana’ Ambassador of the Republic of Guyana Safraaz Ahmad (right) was crowned champion of the Ramadan Table Tennis Championship

Prince Charles in Guyana to fight under-16

starlet, Jeremiah Duncan

THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) remains committed to running an intense junior programme in 2023, with monthly under-16 championships scheduled. Next month (April 2), the championship will spice up with an added international flavour: Prince Charles of Trinidad & Tobago.

Charles, who is coached by Jason Matthews, will be part of a two-member contingent from the twin island republic, which includes Shania Nunez that will compete in the April 2 championships that is scheduled for the National Gymnasium, on Mandela Avenue.

Charles, who is of royal moniker, is penciled to match skills with emerging talent Jeremiah Duncan, who was adjudged the best boxer at the previous edition of the Caribbean School Boys and Junior Championships, hosted on local soil. Nunez will touch gloves with local sensation Taffina Barker, of the Pace and Power Gym.

According to GBA President Steve Nin-

valle, this is another historic step in the right direction of the discipline. “This is a historic move, and is indicative of the Association’s emphasis on youth development,” he said, adding: “This is a simple but significant act in building and improving on an initiative that was primarily created to advance the sport, and build on its infancy phase. This programme will now provide international exposure to our pugilists at an earlier stage; after all, the U-16 age group is a vital transitional period in the development of boxers. This is just the start.”

He further disclosed, “Communication lines were also opened with Suriname, who have also confirmed the participation of a two- member delegation, which further adds to the budding profile of this tournament. The international element will continue to be a feature of the tournament for the foreseeable future.”

The U-16 championships, which is hosted twice on a monthly basis, is directly linked to the Caribbean School Boys and

Juniors Competition, and serves as the Association’s preparatory platform.

The GBA, which is the 2022 Sports Association of the Year, hosted 16 under-16 competitions last year, which is a record, and is geared to surpass that number in the current calendar year. Another edition is already penciled for April 30 at the same venue, and is also expected to attract international involvement.

The resumption of the monthly enterprise also aligns with the Association’s impending weekly training camp for young and elite pugilists, which is slated to commence on March 31 at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown. The aforesaid programme, which features the technical expertise of National Coach Lennox Daniels, Technical Director Terrence Poole, and Cuban Coach Francisco Roldan, has been conceptualised as a high-performance system to better equip boxers for the rigour of international competition.

GISE, Star Party Rentals & Trophy Stall 2-day 1st div cricket…

Party Rentals & Trophy Stall Two-day

First Division cricket tournament.

The 36-year-old Barnwell, who has the most centuries in GCA’s Frist Division cricket, and two tons and 12 fifties from 61 First-Class matches, scored 114 from just 61 balls, and decorated with three fours and 13 sixes and shared in a 112-run stand with Nkosie Beaton, who hit five fours and two sixes in a quick-fire 45, before Nityanand Mathura removed the dangerous Barnwell at 282-5, after he had deposited the bowler for consecutive sixes.

Everest were bowled out for 80 in their first innings, as only Anthony Sanichara (22), Bissu (12), and Chanderpaul Hemraj (11) reached double figures, as the batters were befuddled by 22 year-old left-arm spinner Nedd, who captured a career best 8-33, as 19 wickets fell on Day One.

When play eventually commenced in hazy sunshine, 13:40 hrs after a false start at 13:10 hrs, when the rain returned just as batters were walking to the middle.

By Sean Devers

A PUGNACIOUS century from Chris Barnwell, and destructive spells of bowling from Ashmead Nedd led DCC to an innings & 193 runs victory over Everest at the small DCC ground, in Queenstown, over the weekend in the GCA’s GISE, Star

Barnwell, who played six T20Is between 2011 to 2013, also got support from Dexter George (47), Raymond Perez (38), Ricardo Percival (34), Brandon Jaikaran (33), and Shamar Yearwood (26), who all got starts as DCC declared on 381-9.

Mathura had 5-126, and got support from Travis Mohammed (2-92), and Niron Bissu, (2-46).

Everest, in their second innings, were dismissed for 108, despite an aggressive 64 with nine fours and three sixes from 44 balls from Ushardeva Balgobin, as Nedd had 8-38, his second eight-wicket haul of the game, while Ricardo Percival supported, 2-20, as the match ended at 15:37hrs after the entire first session was not due to wet pitch.

Yesterday, Everest were asked to follow-on, needing 301 to avoid an innings defeat, and the Camp Road side were aided by overnight rain, which left water on the covers. Seepage on to the pitch during the removal of the covers, delayed play for the pre-lunch session.

On an outfield not too affected by adverse weather, Everest had a horrendous start, slumping to 15-4, as Nedd picked up from where he left off in the first innings, removing Denesh Mangal (2) at 8-1, and Joseph Perry (0), two balls later, as two wickets fell with the score on eight.

It was soon 15-4 as Nedd sliced through Everest’s batting order like a knife cutting butter in hot sun, removing Sanichara (10), and Chandrapaul Hemraj for a duck in the space of a run to leave Everest on 15-4, before Balgobin and Bissu took the score to 49, with Balgobin counter-attacking the bowlers with confident batting with the sun now back out.

Nedd captured his second five-wicket haul of the game, by getting rid of Bissu (4),

at 59-5, but Balgobin kept going, clobbering Nedd for a six over long-on, before pulling him for another six, when he bowled short, and reached his 50 from 37 balls with nine fours and a six.

As conditions became a bit more overcast, and with the score on 80, Mathura (6), was bowled by Ricardo Percival, the son of former Guyana left-hander Andre Percival, to the delight of the raucous DCC supporters.

At Tea, Everest were 93-6, with Balgobin on 63, and Travis Mohammed on 4, and DCC looking for four wickets in the final session. Just after the break, Nedd trapped Balgobin lbw on 93-7, while the 100 came up in the 24th over, before Percival sent back Mangal (7) at 100-8.

Travis Mohammed (4), was bowled by Nedd without addition to the score, while Feyaad Lekhraj hit Nedd for consecutive boundaries, before he was stumped off Nedd, who ended match figures of 8-71.

Westminster Secondary, Charlestown among Sunday’s winners

WESTMINSTER and Charlestown Secondarys were winners on an overcast Sunday afternoon, as the Ministry of Education ground played host to another round of the 2023 MILO Schools U18 Football tournament.

Westminster overcame Charity Secondary 4-2, in the second game of the day, with a brace from Harod Haynes (8th, 40th) and single strikes from Dorwin George (59th) and Nickelle Watson (70th).

Charity, on the other hand, had Raphiel Samuels (11th) and Makhaya Thomas (50th).

In the opening game of the day, Bushlot Secondary drew Marian Academy 2-2.

Bushlot had Omarion Anthony (21st) and Quacey Fraser (60th) on target, while Marian had Tevaun Taylor (47th) and Nicholas Jones (53rd).

Ann’s Grove also had a 3-0 win over Vergenogen Secondary, thanks to Shaquan David (22nd and 68) and Antwon Payne (50th).

Charlestown also decimated Cummings Lodge, 4-0, with goals from Malcom Hendricks (3rd), Tyler

Lyle (9th), Andrew Carto (21st) and Emmanuel Need (50th).

Meanwhile, in yesterday’s encounters, there were wins for New Amsterdam, Christianburg-Wismar Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute, President’s College, and New Central High School.

The competition is sponsored by Nestle’ (MILO), through MASSY Distribution. It is sanctioned by the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Football Federation. It is Co-ordinated by the Petra Organisation, and also supported by: MVPSports, GenEquip Guyana Ltd. and GINMIN Guyana.

See full details below:

SUNDAY’S GAMES:

Bushlot Secondary 2 vs Marian Academy 2

Bushlot Secondary

Omarion Anthony 21st

Quacey Fraser 60th

Marian Academy

Tevaun Taylor 47th

Nicholas Jones 53rd

Westminster Secondary 4 vs Charity Secondary 2

Westminster Secondary

Harod Haynes 8th, 40th

Dorwin George 59th

Nickelle Watson 70th

Charity Secondary School

Raphiel Samuels 11th

Makhaya Thomas 50th

Ann’s Grove Secondary 2 vs Vergenoegen

Secondary 0

Ann’s Grove Secondary

Shaquan David 22nd, 68th

Antwon Payne 50th

Cummings Lodge Secondary 0 vs Charlestown Secondary 4

Charlestown Secondary

Malcom Hendricks 3rd

Tyler Lyle 9th

Andrew Carto 21st

Emmanuel Need 50th

SATURDAY’S GAMES:

New Amsterdam 2 vs St Stanislaus

College 1

New Amsterdam

Keemani Spellen 36th, 47th

St Stanislaus

Joel King 42nd

Christianburg-Wismar Secondary (CWSS) 2 vs 8th of May Secondary 0

CWSS

Kemani Field 70th

Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) 3 vs St Cuthbert’s 1 BEI

T’Jon Reid 16th,38th

Carlo Campbell 35th

St Cuthbert’s Ronaldo Rodrigues 49th

Presidents College 2 vs North Ruimveldt 0

President College

Jude Andrews 11th

Michael Joseph 68th

New Central 3 vs Annandale 2

New Central

Kenneth Gordon 30th, 70th+1

Peter Khan 62nd

Annandale

Jeremiah Duncan Taffina Barker

Chris Barnwell scored an entertaining 114 for DCC over the Weekend (Sean Devers photo)

Jagan Memorial Cycle Road Race…

Briton John is King

BRITON John won yesterday’s 23rd Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cycle Road Race after a spirited comeback.

John came back from a four-minute break to finish ahead of We Stand United teammates, Jamaul John and Alexander Leung, and unattached veteran Jaikaran ‘Catfish’ Sukhai.

He completed the race in a time of three hours, three minutes and thirty-five seconds (3:03:35).

The race started at 08:00h in front of the Freedom House, New Amsterdam, and proceeded to the Springlands Police Station before returning to Port Mourant for the finish.

Results:

Open/Senior Category:

1: Briton John (We Stand United)

2: Jamaul John (We Stand United)

3: Alexander Leung (We Stand United)

4: Romello Crawford

5: Curtis Dey (Evolution)

6: Alex Mendes (Kaieteur Attack)

MILO schools football tournament 2023…

Briton John won yesterday’s 23rd Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cycle Road race (Guyana Cycling News photo)

Action in the MILO Schools football tournament was tense last weekend (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Hosein has his hands on his head•Mar