Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 29-09-2023

Guyana’s explosive economic growth continues to garner global attention Region Nine poised to become major grain producer – President Ali

President Ali and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State engage in high-level talks

President Dr. Irfaan Ali met with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy, Adel Al Jubeir and his team at State House on Wednesday. During the meeting, President Ali shared his vision for Guyana and discussed investment opportunities in the country, infrastructural development, renewable energy, agriculture, the oil and gas sector, and economic co-operation.

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, also attended the meeting.

Kumu farmers begin harvesting rice

Gas-to-energy project to revolutionize nation

- Minister Bharrat underscores at opening of Shell Gas Station in Enmore

US, Caribbean visitors lead the influx

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to Guyana

149,020 visitors within first six months

ExxonMobil Guyana withdraws from Kaieteur Block

Mid-year report: Livestock sector making waves in non-oil economy

Region Nine poised to become major grain producer – President Ali

- to supply country, regional markets with corn, soya bean

By Naomi Parris

THE harvesting of acres of corn and soya bean in Region Nine, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo, signals its readiness to be a significant producer of the grain.

During Heritage celebrations in the hinterland region on Wednesday, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced this.

The President spoke to residents from various communities and announced that the region will soon be a production hub and exporter of grain to the entire Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Region.

“Here in the region, we have been able to spend almost 500 million dollars in different villages to enhance your livelihoods and food security,” the Head of State said.

With Guyana expending close to US$25 million annually on proteins for the poultry sub-sector, the government, since being elected to office in 2020, has taken steps to promote domestic cultivation of grains

such as corn and soya bean.

“More importantly, with the roads and bridges to Georgetown, a whole new market for production will increase. Region Nine will be important in producing and supplying grains not only for Guyana, but the entire CARICOM Region.”

The investments being made in this initiative will see vast employment op -

portunities being created for the indigenous community.

“This will create jobs for the transport and logistics, for mechanics, because we want to build a food infrastructure here in this region.”

“We have big plans... We have a vision for this region. A vision that will see the complete modernization,” the President added.

In a past interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha had said that the aim is to extend the farm in the Tacama Savannah to some 4,000 acres over a five-year period.

“In 2021, we would have [sic] started the trial of 125 acres and it was very successful and we harvested three tonnes per hectare, and that is aligned in getting the kind of production we want. Because of that, we said we will expand to 3,000-4,000 acres this year and we will continuously increase, so the next three years we can expand to 25,000,” Mustapha said.

In 2021, six local companies and a regional firm joined together to undertake a massive project that could see Guyana becoming self-sufficient in corn and soya beans over the next few years.

The owners of Guyana Stockfeed Ltd., Royal Chicken, Edun Farms, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch, and Bounty Farm Ltd., along with the Brazilian-owned N F Agriculture, have part-

nered to produce soya bean and corn for both the local and regional markets.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to begin wheat-production trials in the Rupununi region.

This publication had previously reported that the

al, which explored several varieties, was completed at the Burma Rice Station in Mahaicony, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Addressing the objective of the wheat trials in a previous interview, Minister Mustapha said the aim

open-field trial for wheat is scheduled to soon commence, at Santa Fe, North Rupununi.

Back in May 2022, Guyana received 49 lines of wheat from the Government of Mexico to start a trial phase. The indoor tri-

is to have Guyana become self-sufficient by removing dependence on imports.

Both President Ali and Minister Mustapha have been leading efforts in CARICOM to address the regional food- import bill.

Kumu farmers begin harvesting rice

THE start of harvesting paddy by farmers from Kumu Village in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) has marked a new beginning for agriculture in the region.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the yields have been encouraging, standing at 26 bags per acre.

At the recent National Toshaos’ Conference (NTC) held in Georgetown, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, committed to assisting the region with a harvester to commence harvesting.

Meanwhile, Minister Mustapha, in a previous report, said Guyana was looking to procure portable

mills for hinterland rice farmers.

According to the minister, Brazil is known to have this technology, and the government will consider procuring the mills from the country that borders Region Nine.

“I understand Brazil has those technologies and I’m looking to see if we can source it from Brazil… we can get it for about G$5 million and I think if we have it and we can get it to Guyana, we can give it to villages and they can have their own portable mill to process the paddy,” Mustapha said.

Recently, rice production restarted in Moco Moco, Karasabai,

and several other villages in the South

To support this and other efforts, the Agriculture Ministry has been providing extension services to the rice farmers in these communities through the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

“We have been supporting this effort through the seed paddy. We have a combine in Region Nine too and we have a small mill.

“I have our people working there steadily, working there all the time and that is why if there is any issues at all, we deal with it at the Ministry of Agriculture through the GRDB [Guyana Rice Development Board],” he added.

Kumu

Pakaraima district of the region.

According to the minister, rice is also cultivated in Region Eight, at Monkey Mountain.

During Heritage celebrations in the hinterland region on Wednesday, President Dr Irfaan Ali discussed Region Nine’s significant potential as a producer of the grains (Office of the President photo)

Soya bean being cultivated at Santa Fe, Region Nine (NAREI photo)

Kumu villagers in Region Nine began paddy harvesting on Monday, marking the start of a new agriculture era. This accomplishment follows commitments made by the President Dr. Irfaan Ali- led government to the people of Region Nine who expressed an interest in cultivating rice. (DPI photo)

Mid-year report: Livestock sector making waves in non-oil economy

GUYANA’S livestock sub-sector is reaching new heights due to massive investments, which will help achieve the food security target by 2025.

The livestock sub-sector was estimated to have grown by 4.7 per cent, in the first half of 2023. This performance was recorded in the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-year report for 2023.

“During this period, the production of eggs, poultry meat, beef and mutton expanded by 6.1 percent, 6.1 percent, 9.3 percent, and 25 percent, respectively,” the Ministry of Finance said.

Notably, the Ministry

said that, at the end of June 2023, $500 million was expended of the $1.1 billion budgeted for the regulation, support and development of the dairy and meat industries.

Another notable achievement in the industry in the first half was the reduction of the animals’ stress levels and improvement in weight.

“These were supported by cross breeding with black belly sheep and other breeds, a new management strategy, and climate-smart pens,” the report read.

President, Irfaan Ali has constantly echoed that Guyana will see the livestock sub-sector expand massively in the

coming years.

While speaking at the launch of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) earlier this month, the Head of State disclosed that the country’s meat production alone is projected to increase by 43 per cent from over 47,000 metric tonnes in 2020 to more than 67,000 metric tonnes in 2023, with a further 50 per cent growth anticipated in 2025.

President Ali said that Guyana is also collaborating with Barbados to increase mutton production. This will see the Mahaica/Berbice region being well positioned to become the livestock capital of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

As part of this initiative, the Barbadian government will be supply-

ing Guyana with 1,000 Black Belly Sheep. Of that number, 473 have already been transported to Guyana and a third shipment is expected shortly.

To advance the industry further, 13,000 acres of pasture have been developed for cattle farmers, and the construction of two abattoirs to international standards

is underway. Additionally, two dairy processing facilities are under construction, a total investment of over US$30 million.

With self-sufficient poultry production already achieved, budgetary allocations have been made for the construction of a broiler breeding facility in 2023 to reduce dependence on hatching egg imports.

Finally, the government is seeking co-investment opportunities in areas such as a sausage plant, a protein plant for aquaculture, and a chicken nugget facility to meet local and regional demand.

President Ali, in his remarks, noted that the Caribbean Week of Agriculture was an important forum for leaders to not only review their success but to address the remaining targets.

Ali revealed that, in order for the region to achieve its ambitious food security targets by

2025, in excess of 1.4 million metric tons of commodities will have to be produced over the next two years.

“We are committed to lead, and to lead as a good example, vision 25 by 2025 represents a tipping point for the Caribbean. Failure must not be contemplated. We must persevere. Paralysis of action will be fatal,” the Guyanese Head of State said.

The Ministerial Task Force, which is chaired by Guyana’s agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, has partnered with the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) to identify commodities for concentrated regional policy support.

According to President Ali, these commodities include poultry meat, corn, soya beans and rice for feed production, meat (beef, pork and mutton), niche vegetables and coconut products.

First-time electricity access given to over 200 Kumu, Quarrie households

THE government's Solar Home Systems Project has provided solar photovoltaic (PV) home systems to approximately 200 households in Kumu and Quarrie, satellite villages of St Ignatius, Central Rupununi, Region Nine. This has resulted in these households having reliable electricity for the first time.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, recently handed over the solar systems to the residents in keeping with the government’s commitment to ensure that Amerindian communities are energy-secure.

Minister Sukhai noted that the government has acknowledged the challenges of supplying electricity to every remote village, hence the move to distribute the solar panels in the interim.

“In the meantime, what we are doing is to ensure that you have

lights so that you can continue to do much more even in the evenings,” she told the residents.

With reliable electricity now available, children and youths in Kumu and Quarrie can study comfortably in their homes.

“In many of our homes, we don’t have electricity and the time to study which is beyond school hours, sometimes we don’t get to do that,” the minister relayed.

Over the past few days, Karasabai Village also received PV home systems that were delivered by Prime Minister, Brigadier Retired Mark Phillips.

Achiwuib, Rupunau, and Karaudanau also recently received panels that were distributed by the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud. In Achiwuib, some 134 panels were distributed, 75 panels

in Rupunau and 237 in Karaudanau.

Regional Chairman Brian Allicock informed the Department of Public Information (DPI) that over 2,000 systems will be distributed to households without electricity in Region Nine.

The Solar Home Systems Project will see 30,000 households in the hinterland, riverine, and rural communities receiving a 150-watt solar system, an upgrade to the previous ones distributed in 2014. This is intended to bridge the large energy divide between urban and rural communities.

The programme was initially expected to be rolled out in 2015. However, when the previous administration assumed office, fiscal resources

for the project were stalled and solar systems were not distributed to these vulnerable communities.

When the PPP/C administration assumed office, after months of discussions, a US$7.2 million credit agree-

ment between the Governments of Guyana and India, facil-

itated by the Exim Bank, was signed.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, with one of the many families that received the solar photovoltaic (PV) home systems

Remarkable Firefighting Efforts

SINCE the Irfaan Ali-led government took office in 2020, millions of dollars have been expended on modern firefighting equipment and the construction of new fire stations.

The fruits of those investments and the government’s ongoing efforts to equip firefighters with the necessary resources while modernising the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), were there for all to see last Saturday at the Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence.

What is known thus far is that a fire of unknown origin broke out in a room on the fourth floor of the six-storey building which

also houses a casino. At the time, there were 293 adults and four children registered at the hotel and it could be assumed that most of them were here for the CPL T20 games and the Cricket Carnival.

Less than 10 minutes after being alerted, fire officials were on the scene. In addition to water tenders and water carriers, a hydraulic platform (HP) was dispatched to the scene.

Video footage circulating on social media shows orange flames in a room on the fourth floor and based on the feedback from persons at the scene, firefighters sprang into action immediately.

They prevented what would have been an unimaginable disaster for the hotel owners and the people and government of this beautiful land, who were excited that the country was not only hosting the cricketing event, but was set to play in the finals the following night.

The cricketing event serves as a major tourist attraction for this small nation and the destruction of the hotel which overlooks the National Stadium where the matches are held, would have been a big blow for all stakeholders.

Firefighters employed two lines working from water carrier #14, water tender

#116, HP #2, and an open water source to extinguish the fire. In the end, the room of origin and two adjacent rooms had significant damage.

Aside from a guest being treated for smoke inhalation, no serious injuries or casualties were reported.

Also commendable was the coordinated way fire officials and hotel staff worked to evacuate the guests. There is video footage to verify the high level of professionalism displayed by all involved in the rescue and evacuation efforts.

The hydraulic high-rise platform which was acquired by the GFS in May,

played a critical role at the fire scene on Saturday night. The $255.6 million piece of equipment was used to rescue a number of persons who were trapped on the sixth floor.

The hydraulic platform can reach a height of 150 feet, which makes it ideal for the numerous high-rise buildings that are located in Georgetown and its environs.

Firefighters often get negative commentary from the public, but their actions at the Princess Hotel demonstrated their bravery and their commitment to ensuring that lives were not lost and damage to buildings and

other property was limited.

The morale of the eight officers, 20 firefighters, and 11 emergency medical technicians who responded to the fire scene that night has been lifted 10 times over. They were honoured a day later for the excellent job they did to rescue persons and contain the fire.

The actions of these first responders are testimony that the GFS has the expertise and resources to effectively tackle any situation. Our only hope is that this attitude and success can be replicated at every fire scene henceforth.

What does PNCR know about democracy when history speaks of rigged elections

Dear Editor, I LISTENED with great astonishment as PNCR and AFC ‘s opposition MPs launched a scathing attack on the PPP/C government at their Burke-sponsored Washington Conference on September 27, 2023. To an audience that comprised one ethnic group it was like preaching to the flock.

Nothing is wrong with criticisms, but when those attacks are based on fabrications and distorted information and spewed out with reckless abandon, it raises serious questions about credibility. One constructive comment was made by Amanda Desir-Walton who said that the opposition and

the government are one in the defence of Guyana’s territorial integrity.

Leader of the Opposition

Mr Aubrey Norton spoke about their people -centred development plan (but didn’t have a copy to show the audience), and repeated an old mantra, “growth is not development.” Only a blind person could not see the vast development taking place in Guyana. He blasted the PPP/C for destroying democracy in Guyana. Cathy Hughes joined him in this tirade. They quickly pointed out that the action by the Immigration Department to stop Mr David Patterson, MP, from leaving the country was a sign of the PPP/C’s authoritarian rule.

They didn’t tell the audience that the Chief Immigration Officer blamed the snafu on a computer error and that they later corrected it. Why would the PPPC not want Mr Patterson to attend the Washington Conference? This is political grandstanding.

Cathy Hughes quoted from News Room which she said is a PPP/C medium. This is false. She also complained about the NRF fund which had $(US) 1.7 billion at the end of June 2023 and asserted that most of this money was going to fund big contracts, while many children cannot read and write, and many go hungry. This is gross exaggeration. She laments that the 22 members that they had in

their version of the NRF (Act 12 of 2019) to overlook the NRF monitoring and compliance income was replaced by five members closely connected with the PPP/C. This information is wrong. The comparative body in the PPP/C legislation (Act 19, 2021) has nine members. Under the PPP/C’s Act, the five members are for the Board of Directors who are responsible for managing the NRF. Were these falsehoods designed to excite the audience’s sensibilities?

If there was any doubt about this, Burke took to the podium and accused Jagdeo’s government of killing 1,400 black men. Already Stabroek News had done an analysis of

the 420 cases and disputed these allegations. And I have done a content analysis and found that 118 of the 420 of the people listed were Indo-Guyanese. Most of those who were killed were linked to gang warfare, shootouts with the police, the rampage by “Fineman” and his gang, and known criminals wanted by the police. What about the attempt to overthrow the PPP/C government, the storming of the President’s Office, and the East Coast insurrection?

Burke played to his true form. He used incendiary rhetoric to stir the emotions of the audience. He asserted that Jagdeo must pay for the murders committed under

his presidency. He subtly suggests street action as one remedy. “We cannot trust the police, so we have to take action.” What action? When the PNCR led government was in power 2015-2020, why didn’t they carry out an inquiry into those murders, but just decided instead to enquire into the Lindo Creek murders? They knew that the evidence was not there. Also, that would have opened a pandora’s box about the killings of Father Darke, Dr Walter Rodney, Vincent Teekah, and the attempted assassination of Dr Josh Ramsamny, among others. It has always been the PNC that was linked to

PNC-APNU-AFC disgraced in Washington DC.

Dear Editor

THE much-touted CGID-PNCAFC-WPA so-called conference in Washington DC to discuss discrimination with US lawmakers has fallen flat on its face. Guyana woke up this morning to the news that the PNC-AFC delegation was embarrassed that they did not have any data to provide when asked for it by the Americans.

A sombre Roysdale Forde (Shadow Attorney General, Attorney-at-Law) confirmed that “today, we were requested again to provide data of discrimination and marginalisation by representatives” (Demerara Waves, 9/28/2023).

Note the word again.

The truth is the PNC-AFC and their cohort of electoral bandits and development deniers have always been pressed for this information. Yet, they went empty-handed, sobbing, pleading for understanding, begging for an opportunity to raise some other issues other than what they went for, namely, to talk about discrimination. Forde and Norton begged for another opportunity, sometime in the future, to find some evidence. The excuse they offered was pathetic, at best. Said Forde: “The opposition was faced with a “diabolical” situation in which government has refused to consult on the establishment of the constitutional Human Rights Commission which is empowered to conduct studies, formulate reports, investigate and assess

instances of marginalisation and inequalities.” (Ibid). Balderdash, plain and simple. There is the Ethnic Relations Commission in place, and Norton, Forde, and Desir could have gone there for information. Parenthetically, I should remind readers that I have regularly urged Nigel Hughes and others to take cases of discrimination to the ERC. They never have, because there is no case.

I worked in Washington DC for 25 years, and so I know a thing or two about the place. While “DC” is full of political theatrics, when they get down to business, they do not work with hearsay. They work with evidence. Letters in Kaieteur News and Stabroek News do not constitute evidence. Neither do the fancy editorials concocted in the interests and idioms of the MMC and TUS (as per Freddie Kissoon). The racialized nonsense regularly deposited by the likes of Dr. Henry Jeffrey, Lincoln Lewis, Hamilton Green, and, inter alia, the Hon. Annette Ferguson (MP), met its demise on the doorsteps of democracy.

The PNC and AFC have disgraced a space where epic struggles for racial equality and equity have occurred. They went there to exploit the powerful historical presence and memory of giants like W.E.B. DuBois, Marcus Garvey, CLR James, Malcom X, Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, A. Phillip Randolph, Jesse Jackson, and John Lewis. The PNC-AFC-WPA axis thought

What does PNCR...

FROM PAGE 6

violence, arson (slow fiah, mo fiah), and destruction of property, not to mention the X13 plan.

The biggest travesty perpetrated upon the audience in Washington was the claim by Mr Norton that the PPP/C government is destroying democracy in Guyana. How much more outlandish could one become? All the western diplomatic missions are aware of their (PNCR) attempt to stage a daring electoral heist in 2020.

All the international Observer Missions. including the Carter Center, have condemned the PNCR’s anti-democratic behaviour and several of them had their US visas suspended for this purpose. How do they have the gall to preach and pontificate on the altar of democracy?

In December 2018, they lost a No-Confidence motion in Parliament. Instead of stepping down from power after three months, they hung onto

they would exploit the powerful historical surroundings as a backdrop to make exaggerated claims of discrimination. How diabolical!

Forde’s admission of having no data was backed up by the ubiquitous but ill-equipped Amanza Walton-Desir. Here she is in her own words: “The provision of empirical data: when we speak, one of the challenges that you have is that they say, ‘where is the information?” (Ibid). You

read that right! The Shadow Foreign Minister admits that they were pressed with this most predictable question – “where is the information”? They had none to offer.

And how about the Chief Executive Officer of the International Decade for People of African Descent Assembly-Guyana (IDPADA-G), Olive Sampson-Cannings? Well, her admission of ill-preparedness is even more revealing. She is quoted as

saying: “When the United States articulates its policy on Guyana, they speak to inclusion. Inclusion has to be measured. We need to collect the data that speaks to where are the gaps…The collection of data is important in order for us to make the case” (Ibid). Let me say to Ms. Sampson-Cannings that she has it right. You must have data. You cannot meet with congressional leaders with the expectation that they will believe you based on appearance

and ancestry.

The PNC-AFC trip to Washington DC to air grievances is an unmitigated disaster. To tell the truth, I feel sorry for Norton, Forde, Desir, and their gang. Shameful behaviour in Guyana is bad. But to be put to shame in the leading capital of the world, must be humiliating.

Sincerely Dr. Randolph (Randy) Persaud

power until August 2, 2020, on the absurdity that 34 is a majority of 65. Another blatant abuse of the constitution and a frontal attack on democracy was when PNCR leader Mr David Granger unilaterally appointed Judge James Patterson as GECOM Chair on October 19, 2017, contrary to the constitution.

Mr Granger’s decision was overturned by the Caribbean Court of Justice and Justice Patterson had to demit office in June 2019.

The history of the PNCR is a sad tale of electoral rigging (1968-1982), dictatorship, economic collapse, and hopelessness. If their purpose is to get the US to interfere into the internal affairs of Guyana, that would not happen. The US Embassy has all the factual information which they conveyed to the State Department. They are aware that the PNCR is a democracy buster.

Yours respectfully, Dr

Tara Singh

A three-part reply to Dr. Percy Hintzen

THIS is part one of a three-part series in reply to Professor Percy Hintzen’s attack on me in his article in Dr. Alissa Trotz’s forum titled, “In The Diaspora” of September 27, 2023. It may be more than three parts because the fictions, propaganda, deceptions, misconceptions and downright barefacedness are saturated all over Dr. Hintzen’s delivery. In their disdain for the PPP government, Mulatto/ Creole academics are becoming so emotionally charged that propaganda and fiction are replacing scholarship.

One of the major players in the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC), Dr. Nigel Westmaas made two observations recently. 1- The five months of attempt to subvert the election in 2020 was an act of neo-colonial intervention in Guyana. 2- Everywhere in Guyana, you can see social decay.

Now we have Percy Hintzen chipping in. Let me remind you that this gentleman that belongs to the MCC wrote the following; “When people ask

me what I am, I reply that I am a Guyanese creole. This is how my identity was forged, and where my interactions have been, and continue to be, most intense.” See my reply to this Freudian confession of Hintzen in my column of January 27, 2023, titled “Sigmund Freud: Returning to class and colour one year after.”

Here is what I wrote about me then: “When people ask me what I am, I reply that I am a Guyanese proletarian. This is how my identity was forged, and where my interactions have been, and continue to be, most intense.” Let’s strip Hintzen’s interpretation of Guyana’s politics. I am asking readers to be meticulous as they read Hintzen.

They will see with graphic clarity this man’s evasion of facts that he knows will embarrass him. He starts by using the word, “Western” instead of “American” to describe the control of Middle East oil. US foreign policy after World War 2 was to invade and destroy any Middle East regime that posed a threat to the US oil-based

economy. Hintzen writes: “Western governments impose, underwrite, back, and subsidise oil colonialism. They unleash their militaries, their campaigns of economic and political retaliation, and their “security” apparatuses to overthrow governments and punish people when oil is challenged.”

That is what the US has done since it became a superpower. European countries were struggling to survive after WW2 when the US came to dominate the world and took control of Middle East oil. Hintzen deliberately subsume the word, “US” under the broad generalisation of the West. Why he did that? Because like the dozens of anti-oil lobbyists, it brings out their double standards.

They lived all their lives in the US where their existence was made possible through modernisation achieved by the fossil fuel industry and still does. And while still living there, they come up with the pyrotechnical idea that Guyana should bear the burden of saving Planet Earth by rejecting

oil production. Before I move on to another aspect of Hintzen’s sermon of falsifications, I need to point out to him that for the 45 years he lived in California, I have lived in my beloved Guyana.

Let’s expose more of Hintzen’s propaganda that supposed to be scholarship. He writes; “Today the violence of oil colonialism is targetting people and organisations who question and oppose oil extraction.” The exception to this pattern of violence is Guyana where those opposed to oil exploration belong to an elite class of citizens with money and influence and extensive media contacts.

Let’s educate Hintzen, since he doesn’t live in

Guyana.

One of the anti-oil lobbyists recently celebrated two nights of his birthday. One night as a dinner and dance affair at the Pegasus followed the next night at the Theatre Guild by an occasion of artistic entertainment. In 50 years, I would not be able to find the money for those abandonments. This same gentleman was in the press recently photographed turning the sod for a $700 million new headoffice. He owns a private business for which I do not see any state vendetta.

Now don’t get me wrong. My point is not to attack the man. If he feels so then he is wrong and I apologise and I can assure him my point is that, in

citing him, I have exposed the fiction of the violence of oil colonialism in Hintzen’s adumbration.

Two of the anti-oil lobbyists are the wellknown sisters from one of Guyana richest landed families. These two sisters have funded about seven court cases employing high-priced lawyers against the oil industry in Guyana. Where is the violence against the people who speak out against the fossil fuel industry in Guyana? The anti-oil lobbyists have, at their disposal, not partial, but total, embrace of two of the three private newspapers. Part 2 is forthcoming.

US, Caribbean visitors lead influx to Guyana

- 149,020 visitors within first six months, 16.2 per cent increase compared to same period last year

DESPITE the setbacks caused by COVID-19 pandemic, Guyana's tourism sector has gone beyond expectations and put Destination Guyana on the map.

Destination Guyana, in the first six months of 2023, welcomed 149,020 visitors, an increase of 16.2 per cent when compared with the same period last year. This performance was recorded in the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year Report for 2023.

“The highest number of arrivals were recorded in the months of March and April. These peaks in arrivals were attributed to an increase in travel from the business seg -

ment as well as returning Guyanese for the Easter holidays,” the Ministry of Finance said.

It was said that of the visitors recorded over this period, those from the United States and the Caribbean accounted for the largest shares, 47 per cent and 26 per cent, respectively.

The report then went on to say: “Increased visitor arrivals were largely facilitated by improved access to Guyana. In February, Fly Allways commenced flights from Guyana to Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica, and Suriname. This was followed by British Airways, which began its twice weekly operations in March,

which served to provide a direct connection from the United Kingdom and Europe.”

Earlier this year, the Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh, revealed that, for March

2023, Guyana saw the highest overall visitor arrival in a decade. The figure stood at 27,352.

During an interview with the Chronicle, Baksh said that was as a result of the hard work, dedication, and commitment of the Ministry of Tourism, led by subject minister, Oneidge Walrond, and the GTA.

“Even though the Brit-

ish Airways came to Guyana at the end of March, it is not because of the increase in traffic from the United Kingdom (UK), but it is more so because of an upsurge of business and leisure travellers choosing destination Guyana. We checked in with the tour operators, and they are also booked out,” the GTA Director told this newspaper.

He said that, based on the numbers, more people are choosing Guyana as their holiday spot, and they are not only staying in the capital city (Georgetown) but they are venturing off to the outskirts of the Essequibo, the Rupununi and other hinterland regions.

He commended the natural beautification project by First Lady Mrs Arya Ali, which has seen the transformation of Georgetown, the Kitty

seawall, Lamaha Avenue; the introduction of the various green spaces, family parks and the “I love Guyana signs” throughout the regions.

“Both the local and international tourists are gravitating towards these venues because of the physical enhancement that has been done by the First Lady, the government and to some extent the private sector as well and that wasn’t the case before.”

He added, “We are also seeing this outside of Georgetown, and what I want us to understand is that the government is not only prioritising the capital city, but beyond. Guyana is not only Georgetown but all the 10 administrative regions are benefitting and this will in turn continue to boost the tourism sector.”

RECENT projections by Business Monitor International (BMI), a Fitch Solutions Research Unit, suggest that Guyana’s economy could expand by an astonishing 115% over the next five years. The nation's rapid growth is mostly due to its thriving oil production and export sectors.

Guyana is rapidly gaining global recognition for its remarkable economic growth. According to Andrew Trahan, BMI’s head of risk for Latin America, Guyana is set to maintain its position as the world’s fastest-growing economy.

He emphasized that the pace of this growth will depend on the swift implementation of additional oil-production initiatives.

BMI envisions a substantial increase in oil production, with output skyrocketing from approximately 390,000 barrels per day in 2023 to over a million barrels per day by 2027. This significant growth is expected to be driven by the opening of new offshore fields within the Stabroek block, operated by a consortium led by Exxon Mobil.

Trahan highlighted that Guyana’s robust economic expansion is closely tied to the rapid expansion of its oil production capabilities

following a series of recent discoveries. This increase in oil production is set to significantly bolster Guyana’s net exports, further contributing to its economic growth.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) also shares this optimistic outlook, projecting a remarkable 38% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate for Guyana in 2023. This follows a record-breaking 62.3% real GDP growth rate in 2022, making it the highest globally.

However, experts are cautious about potential risks that could impact this bullish outlook. Valerie Marcel, an associate fellow at the think tank Chatham House, stressed the importance of diversifying Guyana’s economy to mitigate the risks

associated with oil dependence. Marcel noted that Guyana faces potential challenges related to corruption and the “Dutch disease,” a phenomenon whereby rapid economic development in one sector adversely affects other sectors.

While Guyana’s economic trajectory remains highly positive, political stability and fluctuating oil prices are factors that could influence its future growth. Despite these challenges, Guyana’s strong energy exports, increased investment, employment opportunities, and rising government revenues are expected to fuel its continued growth in the coming years.

BMI’s Trahan believes that Guyana will retain its title as the world’s fastest-growing economy in 2023 and expects this trend to persist for at least the next two years. He anticipates that real GDP will rise approximately 115% between 2022 and 2028, driven by stronger energy exports and positive economic spillover effects.

As Guyana continues its impressive economic ascent, diversification efforts and political stability will be pivotal in ensuring the sustainability of this remarkable growth story.

A scene from ‘Welcome Vibes’ at the Cheddi Jagan International Aiport, earlier this month (Delano Williams photos)

Andrew Trahan, BMI’s head of risk for Latin America

Guyana’s

explosive economic growth continues to garner global attention

Gas-to-energy project to revolutionize nation

- Minister Bharrat underscores at opening of Shell Gas Station in Enmore

In a momentous event marking a significant step toward a transformative future for Guyana, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, delivered a compelling address Tuesday during the inauguration ceremony of the new Sol Guyana Inc, Shell-branded Gas Station in Enmore, East Coast Demerara.

The Minister's speech not only emphasized Guyana's impending development but also shed light on gas-to-energy project set to revolutionize the nation.

Minister Bharrat highlighted the gas-to-energy project as a game-changer for Guyanese citizens.

He affirmed that this initiative would usher in an era of stable electricity supply, sparking new opportunities in various

industries, thereby fueling the country's overall progress.

The Minister passionately stressed the importance of value addition, underlining that Guyana cannot continue exporting crude oil only to import refined petroleum products.

Furthermore, the Minister revealed ambitious plans for the construction of a refinery in the future, a move aimed at enabling Guyana to manufacture and process its own raw materials, thus reducing dependency on imports.

Acknowledging past challenges in Guyana, particularly the high cost and unreliability of electricity, Minister Bharrat declared this gas-to-energy project as the "single most transformational project" for the nation.

He explained that the

project would provide affordable power, attracting industry and manufacturing investments to Guyana, ultimately benefiting the average Guyanese citizen.

The Minister also emphasized the economic impact, stating that this initiative would put more money into the pockets of ordinary people, aspiring to create a New Guyana marked by comfort and safety.

Minister Bharrat painted an optimistic picture of Guyana's future, predicting profound changes over the next decade. He said, "Ten years from now, Guyana will be totally different from what it is now, in a positive way. Ten years from now, we want to see Guyanese enjoying a better life."

Highlighting Guyana's unique environmental

commitment, the Minister noted the country's carbon credit deal, a groundbreaking agreement that will bring in US $150 million.

He disclosed that 15 percent of these funds would be directed towards bridging the development gap between the Hinterland and the Coastline, ensuring that all Guyanese, regardless of their location, reap the benefits of the nation's progress.

Minister Bharrat proudly touted Guyana's environmental credentials, with the country boasting the second-highest forest coverage in the world, following closely behind Suriname. He addressed the apparent contradiction between oil production and environmental conservation, asserting that Guyana is uniquely positioned as a

carbon sink country and even a carbon-negative nation, thanks to its conservation efforts.

The newly inaugurated Shell Gas Station in Enmore represents the 11th addition to the Shell Service station network in Guyana. This milestone follows the opening of the Mandela Avenue Shell

Station in February earlier this year.

As Guyana embarks on this journey toward sustainable development, the inauguration of the Enmore Shell Gas Station serves as a beacon of hope and progress, promising a brighter future for all Guyanese citizens.

Heritage Games programme commences, 792 athletes to compete

THE Annual Heritage Games programme has kicked off and this year it is being dedicated to the 20 children who perished in the tragic Mahdia Fire a few months ago.

The games are the last calendar event to commemorate heritage month celebrations themed ‘‘Sustaining Our Cultural Heritage and Identity While Contributing to One Guyana’.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, officially declared open the five-day event at the Everest Cricket Ground, on Wednesday evening.

Some 792 athletes from the 10 administrative regions will be contesting in various sport disciplines including aquatics, track and field, archery, cricket and the football tournament.

In his feature address, Minister Ramson Jr said the annual games serve as a stepping stone for Amerindian athletes’ talents to be recognised at a national level.

He recalled the story of Analisa Vincent, who played for Region One in the past heritage games where her

talent was recognised and is now playing for Guyana’s National Team – The Golden Jaguars.

“Every single opportunity that you have ever had, that took you to this point, it’s a platform, it’s a stepping stone to where you wanna go next,” said the minister.

The government, he said, is also exploring the idea of taking the heritage games to the National Track and Field Facility located at Leonora, Region Three.

He commended the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs led by Minister Sukhai for successfully hosting the annual games over the past years.

Meanwhile, Minister Sukhai noted that the government will continue to invest in human capital including in sports.

International cricketer and player of the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) who is champion of the Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament, Keemo Paul also encouraged athletes to pursue their dreams, believe in themselves and most importantly, be disciplined.

The Ministers of Housing and Water, and Labour, Collin Croal and Joseph Hamilton were also in attendance at the opening ceremony. (DPI)

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat and other officials at the ceremonial ribbon cutting at the new Shell gas Station in Enmore ( Delano Williams photo)

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr

President Ali and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State engage in high-level talks

IN a significant diplomatic encounter, President Dr. Irfaan Ali held a productive meeting on Wednesday with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy,

ture, and the oil and gas sector.

The high-level talks were attended by Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-

AlMuaiqel, an Advisor in the Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, represented the Saudi Arabian delegation. Their presence emphasised the significance of the engagement between the two nations.

During the meeting, President Ali took the opportunity to outline his vision for the future of Guyana, highlighting the country’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. He emphasised the investment potential in Guyana, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and the oil and gas industry, which have been pivotal to the nation’s recent economic advancements.

The leaders had cooperative and mutually understanding discussions. Sharing ideas and perspectives laid the groundwork for potential collaboration between Guyana and Saudi Arabia.

President Ali's steadfast devotion to bolstering international relationships and investigating avenues for economic prosperity was apparent throughout the meeting. The interaction with Saudi Arabia is considered a beneficial initiative in fostering closer ties and expanding Guyana's worldwide impact.

Adel Al Jubeir, and his accompanying delegation. The meeting took place at State House and covered a wide range of topics, including economic co-operation, investment opportunities, infrastructural development, renewable energy, agricul -

operation, Hugh Todd, who lent their expertise to the discussions, underscoring the importance of the meeting.

Ambassador Khalid Al-Anqari, the Director General of the Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Badr

Upon the conclusion of the talks, both delegations conveyed their optimistic outlook towards the potential for future collaboration and ventures that could prove advantageous for both nations. The meeting was evidence of Guyana's endeavours to interact with the global community and pursue prospects for sustainable development and economic advancement.

ExxonMobil Guyana withdraws from Kaieteur Block

Below is the ExxonMobil Guyana Statement:

ExxonMobil Guyana has exited the Kaieteur block offshore Guyana, with participating interest assigned to Ratio Guyana Limited and Cataleya Energy Limited; Ratio is anticipated to assume the role as operator.

Our exploration efforts and discovery of

oil in the Kaieteur block have highlighted Guyana’s offshore potential. Our withdrawal from the Kaieteur block has no impact on our commitment to seeking further exploration and development opportunities and to generating additional value for the government

and people of Guyana. This includes our accelerated development and production in the Stabroek block, where we are targeting six FPSOs by the end of 2027, bringing Guyana’s production capacity to more than one million barrels per day.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy, Adel Al Jubeir

Chinese Modernization: Modernization Pursued Under the Leadership of the CPC

THE Chinese people are pursing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization. The Communist Party of China (CPC), taking explorations for paths to modernization as its mission, has led the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in making immense achievements through many years of practice.

Modernization pursued under the leadership of the CPC suits China’s national conditions

After the 1840 Opium War, visionary people in China pressed ahead against the odds in pursuit of a path to modernization for China. From the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China period, there had been the Westernization Movement aimed to learn from Western military technology and the Reform Movement of 1898 and the Revolution of 1911 intended to establish constitutional monarchy or other Western systems. However, all these plans to blindly copy

Western models ended in failure for not being suitable for China’s national conditions. What has happened proves that a Western path to modernization is not an option for China and does not work in China. Since its inception, the CPC, by seeking truth from facts and painstaking searches, has led the Chinese people in finding the right path toward national independence, people’s liberation, and prosperity of the country. It were the Chinese Communists who first learned and applied Marxism to advance socialist modernization in light of China’s specific conditions back then. This path to modernization enjoys strong vitality because it is in line with the spirit of the Chinese civilization and based on China’s national reality.

Modernization pursued under the leadership of the CPC serves the people

The CPC Constitution stipulates that the CPC is the vanguard of the Chinese people and the Chinese nation, and it represents the fundamental

interests of the greatest possible majority of the Chinese people. Chinese modernization is people-centered and its immutable goal is to meet the people’s aspirations for a better life.

As an ancient Chinese saying goes, “The people are the foundation of a country and only when the people lead a good life can the country thrive.” Mencius, a foremost representative of the Confucian thought in the Warring States period (475–221 B.C.), said, “There is a way to win (people’s) hearts: amass for them what they desire, do not impose on them what they detest, and it is as simple as that.” This observation highlighted the importance to win public support and bring benefit to the people. The people-centred philosophy of the CPC, drawing political wisdom from traditional Chinese culture, has become a defining feature of Chinese modernization.

Under the leadership of the CPC, China won the largest battle against poverty in

human history, which lifted 800 million people out of poverty and met 10 years ahead of schedule the povertyeradication target set out in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China has also built the world’s largest social security network with 1.34 billion Chinese having access to basic medical insurance in 2022. China has also made tremendous efforts to address environmental problems that has a direct bearing on the people. As a result, sand and dust storms and smog have been significantly reduced. There are more lush mountains and lucid waters. Every improvement in people’s daily life forms a strong momentum for Chinese modernization.

Modernization pursued under the leadership of the CPC benefits the world

The CPC has been maintaining a global vision. In leading the efforts to pursue modernization, it is dedicated to not only seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese

nation, but also promoting human progress and world harmony.

As a Marxist party, the CPC, with an internationalist vision, has made the emancipation of humanity its abiding goal. Taking root in the traditional Chinese culture, the CPC carries forward fine traditional Chinese culture such as “a just cause should be pursued for the common good.”

On the path toward CPCled modernization and in response to questions of our time—“What is going on with the world?” “What shall we do about it?”—China proposed the idea of building a community with a shared future for mankind. It has signed documents on Belt and Road cooperation with more than 150 countries and more than 30 international organizations.

According to a research report by the World Bank, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since it was proposed 10 years ago has produced 420,000 jobs for partner countries, lifted nearly 40 million people out of poverty, and raised the share of emerging and developing economies in the global economy by 3.6 percentage points. It is expected to generate USD 1.6 trillion in global revenue each year by 2030, accounting for 1.3 percent of global GDP.

The CPC-led modernization embodies the idea that “All people under the heaven are of one family.” China will continue to provide more opportunities for the world with its own development, contributing to common development and shared prosperity for all.

Chinese Modernization: Leaving No One Behind

MODERNIZATION is not a luxury for the privileged few. It is the common pursuit of all people around the world. As a developing country with 1.4 billion people, China pursues a modernization process that features common prosperity, and that is key to the Chinese path to modernization.

Common prosperity is our consistent goal

As President Xi pointed out, common prosperity is what socialism is essentially about and what the people want. All our efforts to grow the economy and better the society, ultimately, are to realize common prosperity for all. Everything China has done under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and especially since China entered the new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics, is to meet the expectations of the people through successive efforts.

Confidence comes from solid progress

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, achieving common prosperity for all has featured ever more prominently in China’s agenda. Good conditions have been created for realizing this goal, through balancing regional

development, winning the fight against poverty and successfully building a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

Rising industrial and agricultural productivity has made supply shortage a thing of the past. China is the only country in the world that ticks all the industrial category boxes under the U.N.’s industrial classification standard. The value added of its manufacturing sector takes up nearly 30 percent of the global total, easily topping the world. Its per capita food supply is over 470 kg, far above the 400 kg international food security line.

Stronger education and scientific and technological capacities are the powerhouses for sustained growth. More than 200 million Chinese people have received higher education. Around 60 percent of its economic growth is spurred by scientific and technological advancement. And China boasts a notable edge in emerging strategic sectors such as new energy vehicles and artificial intelligence.

The parallel increase in economic volume and people’s incomes reflects a more inclusive growth. In 2022, China contributed 17 percent of the world’s GDP. Its urban/ rural ratio of per capita dis-

posable income, an index on income disparity, has lowered from 2.88 10 years ago to the current 2.45. China won the unprecedented battle against poverty, lifting nearly 100 million rural people out of poverty despite the pandemic, a giant step toward common prosperity for all.

Tested measures tailored to Chinese realities

Besides the grand vision and blueprints, to realize modernization of the country, we also need concrete measures that are in line with the general rules and the Chinese realities. The Chinese path to modernization features development for the people and by the people, and the development fruits are shared by all. The widely acclaimed victory against poverty is a good example of its significant progress toward common prosperity. The following are some typical measures taken in this process:

First, targeted poverty alleviation. This is to maximize the use of limited resources. A primary-level government identifies each and every poor household under its jurisdiction, creates a file for it and starts the ongoing process of lifting it out of poverty. But for any poor household to be registered, its qualifications must be disclosed for public

supervision at both the village and township level, then compared with nationwide data, and finally confirmed and made public by the county government. The rigorous and transparent process ensures that the available labor, materials and financial resources are used where they are most needed.

Second, blood-making rather than blood transfusion. Poor households are encouraged to seek sustainable development on their own, by tapping into their unique location advantages and local resources. Instead of cash distribution and other consumption-end measures, China’s poverty alleviation focuses more on the production side, such as helping people to set up businesses, secure start-up loans and get skills training.

Third, all-out efforts by governments at all levels. Poverty-alleviation performance is a key criterion in the evaluation, appointment and promotion of public servants at all levels of government, the county and township all the way to the CPC Central Committee departments and state organs. Relatively better-off provinces, cities, counties and entities are paired up with their poor peers, providing funds, people and other assistance. More than 3 million officials

have thus been dispatched as first secretaries and resident officials to poor villages and work and live together with the poverty-stricken people there.

And finally, full participation of the society. In such an enabling social environment of government policy support, wide mobilization and public participation, many Internet companies in China have voluntarily helped remote regions to sell their products via live streaming, and they taught rural residents how to utilize social media platforms to grow their businesses. As a result, many must-buy local products and must-visit places are known to the world.

Common prosperity for global development Prosperity is not real until it’s common prosperity, and development is true only when it’s development of all countries. While marching toward modernization, China will increase its input to global development cooperation, provide more opportunities for the world, let the development fruits be shared more widely and fairly, and embrace a brighter future of common development with people of all countries in the world.

Chinese global initiatives reflect the nation’s indisputable economic power.

Christian Lue (photo)

Intoxicated pensioner nabbed with unlicensed firearm at road block

A 68-year-old intoxicated motorcyclist, Lionel Haynes, was arrested on Wednesday night for possessing an unlicensed firearm.

According to police, Haynes is a resident of Auchlyne Estate, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

It was said that around 21:30 hours on Wednesday, Inspector George, Sergeant Saul, Sergeant Wilburgh, Corporal Marks, Detective Constable Whyte and four other ranks were on a ‘Road Block’ exercise on the public road at Whim, Corentyne Berbice.

“During the operation, Lionel Haynes, a 68-yearold resident of Auchlyne Estate in Corentyne Berbice, was the driver of a red and black Honda 150

motorcycle with registration CG 8503 was stopped, and two breathalyser tests were conducted on him, which recorded .64 and .67 micrograms, respectively (which is above the legal limit),” police said.

Police then proceeded to search Haynes and found that he was carrying a .32 Beretta pistol along with six live matching rounds. However, he was found not to be the holder of a firearm licence. Haynes was cautioned, told of his offences, and then escorted to Whim Police Station.

He was placed into custody for driving under the influence of alcohol and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. Investigations are ongoing.

The firearm and motorcycle were taken into police custody

Tourists embrace Guyana’s culture during Cricket Carnival road parade

By Faith Greene

SCORES of overjoyed

Guyanese took to the streets earlier this week to partake in the hype and excitement

of the Cricket Carnival parade - the final event of this year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season.

Joining them were dozens of tourists from

as close as Trinidad and Tobago and as far as London and Belgium. They were all eager to party in the sun and celebrate the Guyana Warriors’ first win in six

finals.

One overjoyed reveller, Indira, a United States resident, noted that she was here for last year’s event and this year did not disappoint.

She said this year is even more festive because of Guyana’s victory.

Indira noted that she thinks that the annual event is getting bigger and better every year.

“Everything has been wonderful. We feel safe, it’s joyful, people have been very accommodating and very friendly,” she told the Buzz.

Londoner Lesley said his experience here was great. He remarked that he enjoyed the music more than anything, and noted that this was his first time in Guyana.

He said that the Guyanese people have been very friendly and hospitable to him.

Next year, he hopes to see more watch parties for the CPL games

so that everyone can be a part of the experience.

Henry, another Londoner, remarked that it was his first time here as well. He said: “It’s been lovely. The people are amazing, there’s so many talented people, and so many amazing things happening.”

He shared that he has travelled to Regions Eight and Nine already, and has been around Georgetown as well.

When asked if he would visit again next year, he said: “Absolutely! Yes.”

Additionally, he has indicated his intention to bring some of his fellow countrymen to Guyana to experience the country’s culture and beauty.

“I’ve already been telling my friends about this (Cricket Carnival),” he added.

For his remaining time in Guyana, visits to more local restaurants to enjoy Guyana’s di -

verse cuisine are on his to-do list.

A Belgian tourist who also spoke to Buzz said: “I’m so happy to be a part of this celebration after winning the tournament. It’s a historical moment and the parade is fantastic; real Caribbean style.”

He said further that he will also be suggesting to his friends that they visit Guyana.

“It’s really worth it. It’s not so popular as a tourist destination, but it has a lot to offer.”

Like Henry, he also stepped out of the city, and visited Kaieteur Falls. He said that that trip was amazing and the parade was even more exciting.

Within the first 20 days of September, Guyana experienced a 12 per cent increase in arrivals at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), compared to the same period last year.

Some of the foreigners who enjoyed themselves at this year’s Cricket Carnival road parade (Japheth Savory photos)

Pepe Moreno, Rupee to mesmerize fans at National Park tomorrow night

CULTURES and nationalities will come together tomorrow night at the National Park when Brazilian superstar Pepe Moreno and Rupee, another singing sensation, headline a concert organised by Jumo ‘Rubber Waist’ Primo.

Pepe has not performed in Guyana since his last show 15 years ago and Rupee, too, has not been here in recent times. Jumo’s intention is to “add a different spin to the whole entertainment scene.”

“Guyana is so multi-cultured right now. We have different persons coming to Guyana such as Brazilians and Venezuelans. Bringing a show like this is one that will make a difference,” he told Buzz this week.

“We have Soca and Dancehall shows, and most of the artistes come every year or within the year, so

the point with this show is to make a difference,” he added.

Pepe, according to

Jumo, is loved by the Amerindians and since Indigenous Heritage Month is being observed, he thought,

“Why not have a kind of show of this caliber so that people in Georgetown and elsewhere can experience a difference?”

The show will feature different types of music that everyone in attendance will be able to appreciate and enjoy.

“The mixture of cultures and nationalities, feting in one area, together. Rupee is a good performer and Pepe is a very energetic performer also and he would be coming with dancers too which will add to more entertainment,” Jumo shared.

He pointed out how patrons will be able to experience firsthand Latin and Spanish music. “We hear the Latin music and the Spanish music and dance it in the clubs but there’s a

representative here that’s going to give you an awesome show. Let’s end off September with a bang, plus we celebrating the Warriors’ victory.”

The show will also feature live performances by Jumo and other local artistes.

Carlvin Burnett is Digicel’s newest Brand Influencer

DICIGEL recently announced its latest partnership with the multi-talented Guyanese recording and performing artiste, Carlvin Burnett.

According to a press release, this exciting collaboration marks a significant milestone in Digicel's ongoing commitment to celebrating the arts and connecting with diverse communities through the power of music.

Carlvin Burnett is a household name in the music industry, renowned for

his exceptional talent as a recording and performing artiste, it said, adding that with a career spanning over a decade, he has consistently delivered chart-topping hits and mesmerizing performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. His artistic contributions have earned him a dedicated fan base and numerous accolades throughout his career.

Meanwhile, Burnett expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, "I am beyond excited to partner

with Digicel, a brand that shares my commitment to connecting people and fostering meaningful relationships. As an artiste, I have always believed in the power of communication through music and the ability of music to bring people together. Together with Digicel, I look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for fans and customers alike."

Communications Manager at Digicel, Gabriella Chapman, said as a brand influencer for Digicel, Burnett will be

involved in various marketing campaigns, initiatives, and events that showcase the company's dedication to providing cutting-edge telecommunications services.

“His dynamic presence and passion for music will undoubtedly bring a fresh and vibrant perspective to the brand's communication strategy. Thus, we are thrilled to welcome Carlvin Burnett

to the Digicel family. His immense talent, charisma, and cultural influence align perfectly with our brand's values and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to our customers. With Carlvin on board, we look forward to exploring exciting new avenues to connect with our audience and make a positive impact in the world of telecommunica-

tions,” she said. This partnership between Digicel and Carlvin Burnett marks the beginning of an exciting journey that promises to bring even more value and entertainment to Digicel customers. Together, they aim to redefine the boundaries of telecommunications and music in a way that resonates with audiences across the globe.

Jumo Primo

Carlvin Burnett

Brazilian singer Pepe Moreno and Bajan performer Rupee will headline a concert at the National Park tomorrow night

Elephant Man, dancehall’s ‘Bad Boy’

BAD Boy Records, the label founded in 1993 by Sean "Puffy" Combs, turned 30 years old this year. It scored major success on pop charts with acts including The Notorious BIG, Faith Evans, Craig Mack, Yung Joc, Mase, 112, Total, Shyne, The LOX, Carl Thomas, and Cassie.

Elephant Man was with the label from 2006 to 2009.

In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, he recalled that stint with one of the most influential companies in contemporary music.

"My time with Bad Boy was very beneficial to my career. It was tremendous. My album for di label [Let's Get Physical] was di only album nominated for a Grammy Award dat year for di label. I felt good about it; big up Puffy, big up Bad Boy," he said.

The deejay also reflected on his initial meeting with Combs in 2005.

"Puffy came to the Hot 97 Reggae On The Tip concert and we were backstage, [with] Sean Paul and Jr Gong. Puffy came

to our tent, an' when he saw me, he said, 'Elephant Man, I am here to sign you. My team at Bad Boy has been telling me a lot about you," Elephant Man disclosed.

He added that Puffy had seen him perform on tour in 2004 with Usher at New York's Madison Square Garden.

Released in 2008, Let's Get Physical debuted at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and #38 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

Its sole chart hit was Five-O, featuring Wyclef Jean, which peaked at #87 on the R&B/HipHop Songs chart. Rihanna, Chris Brown, Mario Winans, Busta Rhymes, Shaggy, and Kat Deluna appear on Let's Get Physical, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album in 2009.

Recently, it was announced that Combs (now known as Diddy) was re-assigning his Bad Boy publishing rights to the label's artistes and songwriters. Elephant Man said he is not affected by this move.

"My publishing was

not in any dilemma. I already had a heads-up and got my business in order and had things sorted out from early," he disclosed.

Elephant Man emerged on the scene in the mid1990s as a member of the Scare Dem Crew. Going solo, he racked up chart-topping hit songs, including Log On, Blase', Dip Again, Father Elephant, and Pon Di River, Pon Di Bank.

The latter, which peaked at #86 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, turns 20 this year. It gave Elephant Man his first crossover hit in America.

He said the idea to record the song — which is based on a popular dance by John Hype — came from popular sound system selector, Fire Links.

"I was at Hot Mondays and Fire Links was playing some songs dat were mashing up di place. He was instructing di people to do di Pon Di River dance dat John Hype had created. He came to me later and said he wanted me to do a song about di dance. At first, I was going to record it on di Orgasm rhythm, but I called

Don Corleon (producer Donovan Bennett) and asked him to play di drum pattern, and then I asked Leftside to play di phrase on it. Alaine was di one who did di harmonies on di track," Elephant Man revealed.

Pon Di River, Pon Di Bank was released on the Q45 label and became an instant hit in Jamaica. When the song got popular on urban radio in America, ultimately

making the pop and R&B charts, his career went to 'another level'.

"It changed my life a lot. It was #2 on BET 106 And Park countdown, and then Mariah Carey did her countdown and she said di song is her #1 song. Di song had America in a frenzy, even as far as in Europe, England and Africa. All of dis was jus' a part of di blessing dat Father God gave me, and I have to give thanks. Big

up to Fire Links who came to me and suggested that I record the song," said Elephant Man.

Pon Di River, Pon Di Bank earned him the Source Award for Dancehall Artiste of The Year. He was also nominated for MTV Video Music Award and a BET Award.

Last year, Elephant Man's seven-song EP, Di Best, was released by Hapilos. (Jamaica Observer)

Taylor Swift’s Eras concert tour film gets worldwide theatre release

TAYLOR Swift, a pop star known for shattering records, announced, on Tuesday, her documentary film from her billion-dollar Eras concert tour will be screening worldwide.

"The tour isn’t the only thing we’re taking worldwide ...” the “Anti-Hero” singer wrote on the social media platform Instagram.

"Been so excited to tell you all that The Eras Tour concert film is now officially coming to theatres WORLDWIDE on October 13!"

Previously, Swift had said the movie, called "Taylor Swift: The Eras

Tour," would only be released in North America.

The singer's film provides movie theatre chains such as AMC Entertainment (AMC.N), Cineplex (CGX.TO) and Cinemark (CNK.N) with a high-profile title to help fill gaps caused by the actors' and writers' strikes in Hollywood.

Swift’s film is expected to collect between $96 million and $145 million at the domestic box office during its opening weekend, according to projections from Box Office Pro.

Demand for the 12time Grammy winner’s “Eras” film rivaled the

high interest garnered by large blockbuster franchises, including Walt Disney’s Marvel and Star Wars.

Adult tickets for Swift's documentary cost $19.89 each, a nod to Swift's "1989" album. Children's tickets will cost $13.13, a reference to the singer embracing 13 as her lucky number.

On November 1, 2022, Swift announced her Eras Tour— 53 shows played in stadiums across the United States. The tour later expanded to include 78 international dates. (Reuters)

Elephant Man

Taylor Swift attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, U.S., September 12, 2023 (REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday September 29, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Rakheem Cornwall & Rovman Powell-193 runs

(2) Jason Holder-16 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who scored most runs for the SKNP in CPL 2023?

(2) Who bagged most wickets?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

…………………………………………………………

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

HAYDOCK

09:00 hrs Western Stars

09:35 hrs Marie Ellen

10:10 hrs Aboriaz

10:45 hrs Hala Emraaty

11:20 hrs Circuit Breaker

11:50 hrs Zillian

12:25 hrs Pearl Eye

NEWMARKET

08:50 hrs Potapova

09:25 hrs Novakai

10:00 hrs Alshin Faraah

10:35 hrs Halioom

11:10 hrs Accumulate

11:45 hrs Broadway Act

12:20 hrs New London IRISH RACING TIPS

DUNDALK

11:35 hrs Un BacioA ncora

12:10 hrs Taisibg Yeh

12:45 hrs Grand zJob

13:15 hrs Rockbury Lad

13:45 hrs Puz Badile

14:15 hrs Eclat De Limiere

14:45 hrs Celtic Revival

15:15 hrs Fairytale Princess

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

FAIRVIEW

08:00 hrs Super Silver

08:35 hrs Grand Destiny

09:10 hrs Summer Odyssey

09:45 hrs And We Danced

10:20 hrs Grue Of Ice

10:50 hrs Charlie Malone

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

BELMONT

Race 1 Egyptian Quest Race 2 Drake's Passage Race 3 Dontbelate

Race 4 Alluring Anger

Race 5 City Man Race 6 Drum Roll Please Race 7 Its Colb In Dhere

Surrey secure County Championship title for second successive year

HAVING gone into this week's final round of matches leading second-placed Essex by 20 points, Surrey knew they could get the job done with five points from their game with Hampshire.

They got three bowling bonus points but no batting points after being bowled out for 207, before their 21st title triumph was secured as Essex also failed to pick up any batting points from their game with Northamptonshire.

Essex were all out for 211 at Wantage Road, Tom Taylor taking the wicket of Jamie Porter that confirmed Surrey as champions shortly before lunch on day three.

Essex then collapsed to 119 all out after being asked to follow-on, to lose by an innings and 39 runs.

Having lost just once in their 13 games to date, at home to Lancashire in June, Surrey become the first side to retain the county title since Yorkshire, who won back to back in 2014 and 2015.

Yorkshire remain the side with the most county titles (33) since the competition began in 1890, but Surrey's 21 titles - including the joint title victory with Lancashire in 1950 - puts them a comfortable second.

Excepting the Covid-hit seasons of 2020 and 2021, it is also effectively Surrey's third Championship title win out of the last four, having also won it in 2018.

And, having also won it back in both 2000 and 2002, it gives them their fifth title triumph since two-division

cricket began 23 years ago, taking them further clear of Sussex, Yorkshire and Durham - who have three each.

'Surrey should be proud of their efforts'

So Surrey retain their title and they are worthy champions.

A second successive triumph that has been built around a solid squad, a pace attack of bowlers who complement each other and can take 20 wickets, and a batting line-up that goes all the way to number 11.

They have played some fantastic cricket this season.

Seven of their eight victories have come when they have had to bat last and chase down a total.

Three Championship titles since 2018 is a fine achievement and back-toback wins is special.

They thoroughly deserve the Championship this season and should be extremely proud of their efforts.

And especially head coach Gareth Batty too. A year ago, when they won it, his title was still actually 'acting interim coach' and it was said at the time that winning the title in 2022 must have been the best 'job interview' ever.

Surrey assistant coach Jade Dernbach told BBC Radio Five:

"It's a surreal feeling in terms of how it's all come about. We've played well all year but the boys are really concerned with finishing the season with a win. That is their steely mentality.

"We were trying very

Cricket World Cup 2023: Ravichandran Ashwin added to India squad

SPINNER Ravichandran

Ashwin has been added to India's final squad for the upcoming World Cup.

The world's number one Test bowler replaces injured left-armer Axar Patel from the provisional squad.

Ashwin, 37, who has 115 one-day international caps, played his first game in the

format for 18 months in India's recent series win against Australia.

Hosts India start their World Cup against Australia on 8 October.

Axar has been ruled out with a thigh injury he sustained during the Asia Cup, which India went on to win by thrashing Sri Lanka.

The hosts' hopes have been boosted by the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah, who returned for the Australia series after almost a year out with a back injury.

India are strong contenders in home conditions to win a first world title since 2011. India World Cup squad: Rohit Sharma (capt), Shub-

man Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya (vice-capt), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav.(BBC Sport).

hard not to look. We thought it was important that the guys stayed focused on the game we're in.

"But it was very difficult to stay away from as there were a lot of travelling fans here and they were letting us know what was going on at Chelmsford at every opportunity. And we certainly knew when that final Essex wicket went down.

"The hard work and dedication that these lads have put in all year has been amazing - and I'm so glad they've been rewarded.

"With any Surrey team there is always an amount of responsibility and pressure that comes with being at the biggest county in the country.

"We knew that, having won the title last year, there would be teams hot on our heels trying to chase us. It wasn't a case of just defending the title, it was a case of retaining it - and we always had that positive mindset."

Surrey director of cricket

Alec Stewart:

"We showed in 2018, when we won it, that come 2019 we didn't go about defending it as well as we could or should have done. And, back in March I used the term, 'we want to attack this year not defend it'.

"My dad [Surrey great Mickey Stewart] still goes on about being part of the team that won it seven times on the trot. We have now won it back-to-back. And adding Dan Lawrence for next year gives us another top-classplayer and gives us more appetite to win it again.

"We still haven't won the T20, so there are still plenty of challenges ahead. It isn't a case of having two trophies in the bank and that's it. If we do that then we'll be in big trouble.

"Rory Burns is outstanding. Tactically he is very good. He is a good leader. He is a man of few words. In the dressing room when he speaks you listen. He leads by example."(BBC Sport).

Ravichandran Ashwin has taken 155 wickets in 115 one-day internationals for India

Laura Wolvaardt’s ‘favourite’ hundred gives South Africa series win

- Amelia Kerr scored 88 for New Zealand but a middle-order collapse meant they could post only a par total

LAURA Wolvaardt's unbeaten 124 helped South Africa chase down New Zealand's 253 with seven wickets and 28 balls to spare, in the second ODI in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday.

The win gave the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, and took them to a sole second position on the Women's Championship table with 14 points from eight games.

(SCORES: South Africa

257 for 3 (Wolvaardt 124*, Luus 53, Kapp 45*, Tahuhu 2-40) beat New Zealand 253 (Amelia Kerr 88, Green 43, Mlaba 3-41, de Klerk 3-44) by seven wickets.

After Wolvaardt won the toss and put New Zealand in,

Amelia Kerr led the way, scoring 88 off 110 balls. Alongside Suzie Bates,

she added 49 in a first-wicket stand in which Bates' contribution was 14. Masabata Klaas

provided the breakthrough by castling Bates, and then removed New Zealand captain Sophie Devine in her next over, also bowled. In all, there were seven bowled dismissals, the joint second-most in an ODI innings.

In fact, all ten New Zealand wickets fell without any assistance from a fielder; two batters were lbw, and one was caught-and-bowled.

Amelia found support from Maddy Green, who struck 43 off 50 balls, and the pair added 92 in 82 balls for the third wicket. Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba removed Green in the 31st over, triggering a collapse that had New Zealand slip from 158 for 2 to 199 for 8. However, Hannah

Rowe and Lea Tahuhu added 54 in 49 balls for the ninth wicket to lift the side to 253.

Wolvaardt and Tazmin

Brits started the chase in, briskly, adding 29 in 5.2 overs before Lea Tahuhu had Brits caught-and-bowled to become the first New Zealand bowler to pick up 100 ODI wickets.

Lara Goodall fell cheaply, leaving South Africa 43 for 2. From there on, Wolvaardt and Sune Luus steered the chase with their 98-run stand. Wolvaardt reached her fifty off 58 balls; Luus followed her soon after, in 53 balls.

Tahuhu returned to break the stand but there was no relief for New Zealand. Even when it looked like Devine had Wolvaardt caught in the

covers for 79, it turned out to be a no-ball.

The South Africa captain made full use of the reprieve and brought up her fourth ODI hundred, and first in a chase, off 117 balls. She now has the most ODI hundreds for South Africa, going past Lizelle Lee's tally of three.

From the other end, Marizanne Kapp scored an unbeaten 45 off 49 balls as the pair added 116 off 117 in an unbroken fourth-wicket stand to take South Africa across the line.

After the game, Wolvaardt called her knock "probably the favourite of my four hundreds, just because it was in a chase". (Cricinfo)

Surrey players celebrated on the pitch in Southampton as news of their title win filtered through

Laura Wolvaardt scored 124 not-out off 141 balls (Gallo Images/Getty Images)

New champions Guyana Amazon Warriors have five named in CPL Team of the Tournament

THE Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Team of the Tournament has been announced. The team has been selected by the TV commentary panel; Ian Bishop, Daren Ganga, Samuel Badree, Carlos Brathwaite, Danny Morrison and Nikhil Uttamchandani.

The team includes five members of the Guyana Amazon Warriors who won their first title on Sunday with a nine-wicket win over the Trinbago Knight Riders at Providence.

The five Amazon Warriors are Captain Imran Tahir, batsmen Shai Hope and Saim Ayub and all rounders

Dwayne Pretorius and Romario Shepherd.

Tahir was instrumental in leading the Amazon War-

riors to their maiden CPL title with 18 wickets in 13

matches, only finishing behind teammate Pretorius’

20 wickets on the leading wicket-taker chart.

Hope and Ayub finished first and second in the leading run-scorer list with 481 and 478 runs, respectively.

The full team is as follows:

Saim Ayub (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Brandon King (Jamaica Tallawahs)

Shai Hope (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Nicholas Pooran (Trinbago Knight Riders)

Kieron Pollard (Trinbago Knight Riders)

Imad Wasim (Jamaica Tallawahs)

Romario Shepherd (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Jason Holder (Barbados

Royals)

Alzarri Joseph (Saint Lucia Kings)

Dwaine Pretorius (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Imran Tahir (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Pete Russell, Republic Bank CPL’s CEO, said: “It has been another fantastic year of CPL cricket, and we would like to thank the players, franchise staff, fans in the ground and viewers around the world for supporting our tournament again this year. We would like to offer our congratulations to the players who have been selected for the Team of the Tournament who have made this another memorable year.”

Spanish police raid Barcelona referee offices as part of corruption investigation

SPANISH police raided the offices of the referees' committee as part of an investigation into Barcelona's alleged corrupt payments to an official.

Barcelona face charges of corruption over payments made to Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, a former vice-president of the committee, in return for favourable refereeing decisions.

UEFA is also investigating the matter.

Barcelona denies any wrongdoing, and no arrests were made during the search in Madrid.

The Spanish Civil Guard searched the Spanish Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) headquarters on Thursday.

BBC Sport has been told that the judge presiding over

the case demanded documentation from the CTA. This was not sent, which prompted the raid.

The initial criminal investigation was brought by the Barcelona public prosecutor's office in March, with European football's governing body UEFA launching its own investigation shortly after.

It is alleged that Barcelo-

na paid 8.4M Euros (£7.4M) to Negreira and his Dasnil 95 company.

The payments were initially investigated as part of a tax probe into the company run by Negreira.

Barcelona made payments to the company totalling a reported 1.4M Euros (£1.2M) between 2016 and 2018, and paid Negreira about 7M Euros (£6.2M)

between 2001 and 2018, the year he left his role with the referees' committee.

Barcelona acknowledged they had paid Dasnil 95, which it described as "an external technical consultant", to compile video reports on referees "with the aim of complementing the information required by the coaching staff".

They said paying for re-

ports was "a habitual practice among professional clubs".

In February, 18 of the 19 other La Liga clubs issued a statement expressing "deep concern".

In July, UEFA provisionally cleared Barcelona to play in this season's Champions League while its investigation is ongoing.

(BBC Sport)

Rahmarack stars with the ball as Windies

Women defeat New South Wales by four wickets

THE West Indies Women got their tour of Australia off to a winning start with a four-wicket victory over a New South Wales (NSW) Women's team at Wilson Park.

Karishma Ramharack had the NSW ladies spun tightly in her web of offspin and were restricted to posted 105-9 from their 20 overs. Ramharack finished with figures of 3-12. Captain Hayley Matthews supported with some wizardry of her own taking 2-7 from her two overs.

NSW skipper Sam -

my-Jo Johnson was the top-scorer with 28 with Hannah Darlington making 24.

Shemaine Campbelle led the West Indies Women's run-chase posting 33 from 34 deliveries which included five boundaries.

Skipper Matthews was next best with 24 off 27.

Aaliyah Alleyne 19 not out and Zaida James 15 not out took the visitors home to victory in 17.5 overs.

Head Coach Shane Deitz was pleased with the team's first outing since arriving in Australia four days ago.

“It's good to get the first win on tour. I think

we've got a lot of areas we need to improve on, especially getting used to

batting on these wickets with some extra pace and bounce. Overall, I think we played generally good all-round and it's going to put us in a good position to play on Sunday,” he said.

The ODI series against Australia is West Indies’ fourth fixture in the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-2025 after playing New Zealand, England and Ireland.

Each match provides West Indies with opportunity to win valuable points to climb the Championship table where they currently

lie ninth of 10 teams.

Following the Australia Series, West Indies Women will play four threematch ODI series over the next two years. At the end of the cycle, the top five teams in the ICC Women’s Championship will book berths in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2025 along with hosts India. The remaining teams will have to go through the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier. (Sportsmax)

CPL champions Guyana Amazon Warriors celebrate

Karishma Ramharack finished with figures of 3-12

Match allocations still subject to ICC approval, CWI says

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, , (CMC) – Cricket

West Indies (CWI) made recommendations to the ICC about the match allocations for the 2024 ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup in the Caribbean and United States, but the proposal still needs to be ratified by the directors of the sport’s world organising body.

CWI chief executive officer Johnny Grave sought to clarify the bidding process for the global showpiece after the seven host territories were revealed last week, and media reports indicated that Kensington Oval in Barbados was set to host the final.

CWI president Dr Kishore Shallow refuted the claim that Kensington

Oval will host the final on the Mason & Guest cricket talkshow on Voice of Barbados 92.9 FM on Tuesday in Bridgetown, though Barbados Cricket Association president Conde Riley suggested he had documents stating that the island’s bid for the final and a series of other matches had been successful.

Tourism officials in the island also touted the success of the bid to stage the final and other matches during a promotional event in the Cayman Islands this past week, but Grave said “the enthusiasm and interest” shown was a bit premature because there were other requirements.

“Following a robust selection process of our seven host venues, CWI-appointed

Venues Selection Committee, chaired by President Dr Kishore Shallow, has made recommendations to the ICC on allocations of matches for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” he said in a media release on Wednesday.

“These recommendations

are subject to venues confirming commitment to all required obligations and ICC approval.”

He added: “We are delighted by the enthusiasm and interest expressed by our host governments and cricket boards and appreciate the

Trophy Stall on board Prime Minister’s T20 softball tournament

TROPHY Stall, like it did in previous years, is once again playing a huge part in the staging of the seventh edition of the Prime Minister’s T20 softball tournament, which bowls off today at various venues around Georgetown and the East Coast.

The Ramesh Sunichowned entity will be

sponsoring several of the major trophies, including the winning one, in the Legends Over-50 category.

According to Ramesh, and his brother Roger, who is visiting from Canada and who also runs a similar business there, they are pleased to be associated with the staging of this three-day softball

extravaganza, and have pledged to continue the sponsorship in the coming years.

Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. President Ian John thanked both brothers for their support, and assured them that their contribution to the grassroot sport hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Meanwhile, Prime

hard work and commitment shown as we look to deliver a spectacular Men’s T20 World Cup next year.

“We will now work with the ICC, our hosts, and ICC members to finalise the match schedule in the coming weeks.”

The allocation of matches is to be considered and approved when the ICC holds its next meeting of directors in November.

During the talkshow, Shallow also indicated that Barbados, Guyana, and Trinidad & Tobago had put in bids for the semi-finals and the final.

The ICC announced last week that seven Caribbean countries, as well as three cities in the United States will host matches in the

Men’s T20 World Cup.

The Caribbean countries selected are Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Guyana, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, and T&T, and the three American cities are Dallas, Broward in the state of Florida, and New York.

The Men’s T20 World Cup, to be played between June 4 and June 30, will have 20 teams playing a total of 55 matches across the 10 venues.

It is the third time a men’s World Cup will be staged in the Caribbean, and the first time in 14 years, after the region previously stage the 2007 Oneday International World Cup and the 2010 T20 World Cup.

Minister Mark Phillips, as is customary, will feature in a bowl-off of the tournament at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary, at 09.00 hrs. The action in all the matches, featuring the Open, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50, will follow at 09.30hrs.

Mahabir spurs Transport to five-wicket victory

A SPARKLING undefeated

63 from National Under-19

batsman Alvin Mahabir spurred Transport to a convincing five-wicket victory over Trophy Stall Knight Riders in their feature 25over Under-21 game played under lights at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) Ground, in Queenstown, on Wednesday night.

Set 136 for victory, after Trophy Stall Knight Riders were restricted to 135 in their 25 overs, Transport cruised to victory in the 20th over, with the left-handed Mahabir leading the way with a scintillating knock, which was decorated with five fours and three sixes.

Mahabir, who also captained Guyana at the Under-19 level last year, received

Man-of-the-match Alvin Mahabir receiving his man-of-the-match trophy from Canadian-based Guyanese Terry Matura

fine support from Adrian Hinds, who struck two fours and a six in 21. Aaron Beharry ended with two for two for 13, while Arun Gainda took two for nine.

Earlier, Trophy Stall Knight Riders suffered an early setback when their skipper and top batsman Romeo Deonarine was run-out without scoring. Nicholson Shivpersaud, with three fours and a six, and Hemraj Harripersaud, who struck three sixes towards the end, shored up the innings with 32 and 25, respectively. Bowling for Transport, Stephen Sankar took three for 17, Riyad Latif two for 17, Myhiem Khan two for 22, and Dave Mahabir two for 22.

Alvin Mahabir was deservedly named man-ofthe-match. Both the winners and man-of-the-match trophies were donated by Trophy Stall. The game was organised by Ricky Deonarine and Anil Beharry.

CWI Chief Executive Officer Johnny Grave

Roger Sunich (right), brother of Ramesh, hands over the winning Legends Over-50 trophy to GSCL President Ian John

The victorious Transport players

Defending champs 4R Lioness, Highway Challengers to clash in women’s final

By Frederick Halley

INAUGURAL winners 4R

Lioness will be aiming to make it two in a row when they clash with newcomers Highway Challengers in the final of the women’s category of the seventh edition of the Prime Minister’s T20 softball tournament which climaxes at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown on Sunday.

The defending champions turned back the challenge of upstarts Invaders in one of the two semi-finals, played at DCC while Highway Challengers got the better of their highway counterparts, Kuru Kuru Panthers in a cliffhanger finish at the Lusignan Sports Club ground.

Playing like true defending champions, 4 R Lioness cruise to an emphatic nine-wicket victory over the Essequibians, who promised much after their opening victory over Arrowhead Strikers but failed to live up to expectations with a meek performance in the semifinal.

Asked to take first strike, Invaders never recovered after a horrible start and were sent packing for a paltry 80 in 11 overs with only Kumarie Persaud (22) and Kareema Smith (21) offering token resistance. Shemeeza Abrams (two for four), Abigal Scott (two for four) and Haseena Mohamed (two for

22) shared the spoils. Despite losing the wicket of the experienced Joann Vansertima with just four runs on the board, 4R Lioness rushed to 81 without further loss in 8.2 overs with Abrams (44 not out) and Scott (22 not out) ensuring no further alarms.

It was a different story at

the Lusignan ground where the semi-final went down to the wire with Highway Challengers reaching the required target of 126 with two balls to spare after needing six to win off the last over in the 15-over affair.

Keisha Higgins (36) and Avina Adrrian ((29) led the way for the winners while

Saskia Solomon took two for 15 for the losers.

Touted as the game of the first round, Police looked set to challenge 4R Lioness after limiting their opponents to 151 for seven in their 15 overs but a middle and lower-order meltdown saw them being dismissed for 112 in 13.1 overs. Alita Adonis (36) and Sherika Campbell (25) offered resistance while Abrams grabbed three for 18, Scott two for 19 and Mohamed two for nine.

Vansertima spanked nine fours and two sixes in a top score of 54 while the consistent Abrams was undefeated on 38 (seven fours) for the winners.

In the other first round, played at DCC, Invaders won from Arrowhead Strikers by six runs in another exciting affair with Kumarie Persaud stroking a fine 81 (six fours, five sixes) for the winners who reached 155 for five in reply to their opponents 148 for four in 15 overs.

At Lusignan, Highway Challengers got the better of Crabwood Creek Rising Stars while Kuru Kuru Pan-

thers won from Number 64 Knight Riders to complete a miserable day for the two Berbician teams.

Crabwood Creek Rising Stars batted first and made 121 for seven with Vanita Ramcharran hitting a spending 58 (four fours and four sixes) while Highway Challengers got to the target in 13.2 overs in the process.

In the other first round fixture, played at the same venue, an enterprising 99 from Jenefa Kewley was in vain as her team Number 64 Knight Riders lost to Kuru Kuru Panthers, who won by four wickets after requiring 146 for victory. The burly Kewley blasted nine fours and four sixes.

The men’s categories (Open All Stars, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50) of tournament bowl off this morning at 9.30 hrs with matches at various venues around Georgetown. Prime Minister Mark Phillips will set things in train with a bowl off at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary from 9.00 hrs.

Region One tops Track and Field at Amerindian Heritage Games

REGION One (Barima-Waini) took the top spot in Track and Field at the annual Amerindian Heritage Games at the Everest Cricket Ground on Thursday.

There was little question about who dominated the first edition of Track and Field at the Games, as they soared to 279 points.

Usual champions for Track and Field at ‘Nationals,’ Region Ten (Upper De-

merara-Berbice), was second with 252 points, while Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 202 points, got third.

Region Five (125 points),

Region Seven (57 points), Region Six (44 points) and Region Two (35 points) rounded off the top seven.

According to Mohamed Nazim, Coordinator of the Heritage Games, there was some hesitation about introducing Track and Field to

the Games, but he is overwhelmed with the response and promise shown.

Nazim hopes that from this exposure, more scouting can be done for the “exceptional talents.”

The Heritage Games continue today at Everest, with action turning to Cricket, while Football will continue along with Swimming and Archery.

4R Lioness semi-final heroines Shemeeza Abrams (right) and Abigail Scott

Jenefa Kewley of Number 64 Rising Stars missed a century after scoring 99