Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 29-10-2023

29th OCTOBER, 2023

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See Inside No.107248

Linden being transformed with tremendous investments SEE PAGE

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- town’s hospital receives US$130,000 state-of-the-art digital x-ray system - Over 150 healthcare workers to receive young professional homes

President Dr. Irfaan Ali inspecting the state-of-the-art digital X-ray system at the Linden Hospital Complex (Office of the President photo)

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Saturday evening, engaged scores of Buxton residents on the government’s development agenda and other issues (Office of the Vice-President photos)

‘A brilliant idea’ - President $1.7 billion injected into President meets with Ali happy with Farmers’ Mines residents enhancing NA Prison Coomacka - land title problems, water Market at Eve Leary woes, among issues solved SEE PAGE

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Some 7,000 contracts currently being executed

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- Dr. Jagdeo announces

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Linden being transformed with tremendous investments - town’s hospital receives US$130,000 state-of-the-art digital x-ray system

By Trina Williams AS Guyana continues to forge ahead on its rapid developmental path, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali assured Lindeners that they will not be excluded from the expansion.

He made these remarks, on Saturday, during the commissioning of the US$130,000 state-of-theart Digital X-ray System at the Linden Hospital Complex.

simultaneously all across Guyana.

“That is why we’re making this big investment, there is a bigger link; it is not only talking about our needs anymore. We are building institutions and structures far beyond [what] we require in Guyana.”

The Head-of-State also expounded on other plans to diversify the nation’s economy and noted that the investments in human re-

mations you don’t see in a painted building, but you see in these bright and beautiful faces that will constitute the future of our country.”

Also, he touched on the significant increases in salaries for several categories of healthcare workers and the housing programmes that are accessible to these individuals.

Dr. Ali said: “This is also an important part of a holistic development and a

cilities and delivers medical diagnoses from those facilities.

For context, telepathology makes use of telecommunications technology to make it easier to send image-rich pathology data— which is needed for diagnosis, teaching, and research— between distant locations.

This brand-new, cutting-edge X-ray system can send digital images to any facility in the globe.

Dr Anthony also revealed that the institution will soon include a mammogram machine to aid in the detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Notably, a host of infrastructural development has

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the event been rolled out by the Health Ministry to target the health sector this year, including the establishment of several new hospitals and major upgrades

to existing facilities.

Some $38.7 billion has been expended in this sector, for the first half of the year.

A demonstration of how to use the machine “Development is coming to every corner, every crack, [and] every valley because that is what we’re about. We’re about transforming things for every single category of Guyanese people,” President Ali affirmed.

Also present at the commissioning was Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, among other officials. Dr. Ali placed emphasis on the tremendous investments being poured into Linden, especially the health sector.

He said that the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is making significant strides to increase the number of nurses receiving training to 3,000, from the existing total of over 1,500. “…We’re building infrastructure to ensure that we have the capacity to at least train 3,000 nurses

source skills are targetting all healthcare professionals, not only nurses.

He also pointed out the hundreds of healthcare workers benefitting under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarship programme, which is allowing Guyanese to pursue their studies at various reputable institutions.

For context, the GOAL Scholarship programme was launched in 2021, and stands as an integral component of the visionary agenda of the PPP/C government to nurture a highly educated and skilled workforce.

While emphasising the role that programmes like GOAL plays in shaping a prosperous future, Dr. Ali said: “These are the type of meaningful change you don’t see in a new fence or a new building. These human resource transfor-

holistic approach we have in enhancing the conditions and enhancing the livelihoods and improving the standard of living for every category of workers across our country.”

IMPROVED HEALTHCARE On the other hand, Dr. Anthony, during his remarks, highlighted that the state-of-the-art Digital X-ray System at the Linden Hospital Complex, signifies a new achievement in the nation’s healthcare.

“It’s not just an X-ray machine…This is one of the best, top-quality X-ray machine in the world,” the Health Minister stated.

Remarkably, results from this machine are obtained in a matter of seconds as opposed to 20 minutes for the prior one. This machine plays a pivotal role in the nation's telemedicine programme, which links local hospitals with foreign fa-

A section of the gathering at the event (Office of the President photos)

Correction and apology

IN this newspaper’s October 28th edition, it was incorrectly stated, in the headline, that the High Court threw out Gordon Moseley’s $IM lawsuit against Guyana Times and former minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy.

The headline should have read, ‘High Court

throws out Gordon Moseley’s $100M defamation lawsuit’.

The article also incorrectly referred to Justice Navindra Singh as Navindra Kissoon. The Guyana Chronicle sincerely apologises for these errors and any inconJustice Navindra Singh venience caused.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Israel recalls diplomats Mike Pence: Former US Vice President from Turkey in Gaza row withdraws from 2024 presidential race

(BBC) Israel has recalled diplomats from Turkey after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused it of behaving like a "war criminal". He made the comments while addressing thousands of demonstrators at a pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul.

The Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen responded by ordering diplomats to return. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel has "the most moral army in the world".

Israel has expanded its strikes on the Gaza Strip, three weeks after Hamas launched its attack on southern Israel, killing more than 1,400 people and taking 229 people hostage.

Since then, the Hamasrun health ministry in Gaza says more than 7,500 Palestinians have been killed as Israel carries out retaliatory strikes.

Addressing a crowd of several hundred thousand Palestinian supporters on Saturday, the Turkish president said "the main culprit behind the massacre unfolding in Gaza is the West".

"Israel has been openly committing war crimes for 22 days, but the Western leaders cannot even call on Israel for a ceasefire, let alone react to it," he said.

He accused Israel of behaving like a "war criminal" and accused it of trying to "eradicate" Palestinians.

He continued: "Of course, every country has the right to defend itself.

But where is the justice in this case? There is no justice - just a vicious massacre happening in Gaza."

It follows posts from the Turkish leader earlier on Saturday on X, formerly known as Twitter, in which he said the latest escala-

tion had targeted "innocent civilians" and worsened Gaza's humanitarian crisis, adding: "Israel must immediately stop this madness and end its attacks".

Moments after President Erdogan finished his remarks at the rally, Israel's Foreign Minister Mr Cohen said on X: "Given the grave statements coming from Turkey, I have ordered the return of diplomatic representatives there in order to conduct a re-evaluation of the relations between Israel and Turkey."

Israeli Prime Minister Mr Netanyahu later said: "Don't accuse us of war crimes. If you think that you can accuse our soldiers of war crimes that is hypocrisy. We are the most moral army in the world."

He added the Israel Defense Forces is taking precautions to protect civilians, and accused Hamas of committing crimes against humanity by "using their people as human shields".

(BBC) - Former US Vice President Mike Pence has withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race, saying “this is not my time”. He made the announcement at the Republican Jewish Coalition in Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon.

“We always knew this would be an uphill battle, but I have no regrets,” he wrote in a statement.

Mr Pence is the first major Republican candidate to suspend his campaign in a race led by former President Donald Trump. Mr Pence had languished in recent polls and had struggled to gain the support of Republican voters.

The former vice president’s campaign had also racked up large amounts of debt, with Mr Pence ending September owing $621,000 (£512,038) and having only US$1.2m

Mike Pence waves after announcing his withdrawal from the race (£989,446) in the bank - significantly less than other Republican rivals.

“I am leaving this campaign, but I will never leave the fight for conservative values,” he wrote in a statement addressed to his supporters.

The 64-year-old lost the support of many Republican voters when he publicly broke with Mr Trump over the 6 January Capitol riot in 2021, and when he presided over the certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 election results in Congress.

Mr Trump admonished Mr Pence for lacking “courage” when he refused to overturn the Democratic leader’s election victory.

Some rioters were heard chanting “hang Mike Pence” as they stormed the halls of Congress in 2021, and since then many Trump loyalists have viewed him as

a traitor.

The former vice-president said in March that Mr Trump’s encouragement of the rioters had “endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day”.

In his resignation, Mr Pence did not endorse any other Republican candidates for the presidential election.

But he called on Americans to choose a leader that “will ‘appeal to the better angels of our nature’ and not only lead us to victory but also lead our nation with civility and back to those time-honoured principles that have always made America strong, prosperous and free.”

Mr Pence’s decision to withdraw from the Republican presidential campaign came shortly before the third presidential debate on 8 November.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Mexico hurricane death tol hits 39; president slams critics

(Reuters) - The death toll from a devastating hurricane this week in the Mexican beach resort of Acapulco has risen to 39, the govern-

city, tearing roofs from homes, stores and hotels, submerging vehicles, and severing communications as well as road and air connections. The govern-

He devoted much of it to attacking critics he accused of trying to exploit the situation ahead of next year's presidential election. "They circle

Hurricane Otis pounded Acapulco with winds of 165 miles per hour

ment said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador accused his opponents of overblowing the extent of the disaster.

Hurricane Otis pounded Acapulco with winds of 165 miles per hour (266 km per hour) on Wednesday, flooding the

ment has so far released little information about dead and injured. The latest death toll was up from 27 reported previously, with four others missing due to Otis.

Lopez Obrador issued a 24-minute video on social media to update the country on the situation.

like vultures, they don't care about people's pain, they want to hurt us, for there to have been lots of deaths," he said.

Lopez Obrador, 69,

counted for. Looting has ravaged Acapulco since the record-breaking storm left thousands of residents struggling to get food and water.

said media outlets seeking to smear his government had exaggerated the toll, but that Security Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez would provide an update on casualties "without lying."

"Let her tell us ... how many people have really lost their lives so far," he said, adding his administration was doing more than any government had "ever done" to handle the aftermath.

Rodriguez said the victims were believed to have drowned due to the Category 5 storm and that 10 people were unac-

Many people have complained of insufficient government aid to Acapulco. Some officials have privately expressed concern that the number of fatalities could rise.

"Help hasn't come,"

said Carlos Diaz, 31, a teacher, standing amid scattered palm fronds on the beach. "We're alone, there's no sign of the government." The dead were 29 men and 10 women, the government said, citing figures from Guerrero, Acapulco's home state.

It said more than 220,000 homes and 80% of the hotel sector have been affected, and over 513,000 people lost power. The cost of devastation left by Otis has been estimated at billions of dollars, and over 8,000 armed forces members were sent to help the stricken port recover.

M e x i c a n a u t h o r ities said Otis was the most powerful storm ever to strike Mexico's Pacific coast. It caught forecasters by surprise, gathering strength with unexpected speed before it came ashore, and surpassed initial predictions.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Visionary Leadership

Facts, it is said are stubborn things. No amount of false propaganda dished out by the APNU+AFC can diminish the enormous strides made by the current PPP/C administration in all facets of national life.

During a recent press conference by Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, he debunked a number of misleading statements made by the political opposition.

One such statement was that that the PPP/C does not have a development plan.

Nothing could be further from the truth. As pointed out by Dr. Jagdeo, there are nearly 3000 pages of strategic planning embodied in seven volumes, all of which speaks to strategic planning and development. These plans did not emanate out

of thin air but came about through a series of iterative engagements with key stakeholders including civil society.

The records will show that immediately after the PPP/C assumed power on October 1992, it embarked on a process of national consultations aimed at the compilation of a national development strategy.

When the APNU+AFC coalition under former President David Granger took office in May 2015, it immediately scuttled the plan and replaced it with a vague and amorphous Green State Development Strategy which failed to materialise because of its lack of vision and ill-conceived nature.

As noted by Dr. Jagdeo, the Green State plan concocted

by the Granger administration turned out to be a burden on the treasury and had no revenue generating component.

It was not until the PPP/C was returned to power in August 2020 that the National Development Strategy was once again updated and put into operation to take into account the country's carbon resources.

For Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton to say that the PPP/C administration is governing this country without a development plan is at best disingenuous and a deliberate attempt to distort the facts.

The fact of the matter is that it was the APNU+AFC that stood in the way of development and as pointed

by Vice-President Dr. Jag-

deo, the political opposition is now seeking to rewrite history in its futile attempt to downplay the monumental progress made by the PPP/C administration over the years.

The PNC has had a history of failed promises since the days of Forbes Burnham and later Desmond Hoyte who replaced him. From the infamous 'Feed, House and Clothe' the Nation to 'Eat Less, Sleep Less and Work Harder' the nation was fed with an unending series of sloganeering and empty promises which were never grounded in any serious and informed developmental plan. One consequence of such disjointed governance style was a progressive decline of economic and social progress. Not surpris-

ingly, the country was reduced to one of the poorest in the western hemisphere by the early 1990's.

The PPP/C administration must be commended for its visionary leadership. Guyana currently has one of the most advanced development plan the genesis of which can be traced since the early days of the PPP/C administration. Former President and now Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo was one of the main architects of that development model based on a National Development Strategy (NDS) which was aimed at articulating a policy framework which formed the basis for determining development priorities and guiding and guiding international assistance.

That monumental task was undertaken by 23 sector-specific Technical Working Groups (TWGs) whose membership represented a wide range of stakeholders drawn from government, academia, NGOs, labour, the donor community and the private sector.

Guyana is blessed to have the guiding hand of former President Dr. Jagdeo who can be described as the main architect of Guyana's economic development. Under the visionary leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Vice-president Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, the prospects of a better and secure Guyana is assured.

Electoral fraud cases must be completed expeditiously

Dear Editor, THE rigging of elections must become a thing of the past in Guyana. Rigged elections have proven to be too costly for our nation.

Guyana must preserve its standing as a democratic nation, and we, as a united people, should strive for massive economic development while embracing inclusivity in our diversity.

This will enable Guyana to prosper not just domestically, but on the global stage as well.

That said, the ongoing delays in the hearing of electoral fraud cases must cease.

These fraud cases have remained unresolved for three years, and all the procrastination and time-wasting must come to an end. The attempt to rig the General and Regional Elections in 2020 disrupted our democracy for five months, requiring domestic struggle and international condemnation

to restore peace and justice to our land.

Members of the Guyana Elections Commission, in collusion with known PNC/APNU/AFC affiliates, played a role in frustrating our democracy for an extended period.

A total of 32 electoral fraud cases have been filed in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts against several political activists including: the APNU+AFC Coalition’s Volda Lawrence; Coalition activist, Carol Joseph; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; sacked Deputy Roxanne Myers; Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; GECOM Registration Clerk, Shefern February; GECOM Registration Clerk, Michelle Miller; GECOM Registration Clerk, Denise Babb– Cummings; and GECOM Information Technology Officer, Enrique Livan.

Further, there is substan-

tial and compelling evidence with passionate and credible statements to be presented in court. Already several boxes containing certified copies of Statements of Polls (SOPs) and Statements of Recount (SORs) from the March 2020 elections have been handed over to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The documents will be used as evidence against those before the court. The SOPs and SORS were accompanied by statements and video evidence, which included copies of video-recorded interviews the accused had with the police.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) DPP and Acting Police Commissioner had initiated legal proceedings in the High Court, seeking orders to obtain certified copies of the SOPs and SORs from the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, which are currently lodged with the

Registrar of the High Court.

The decision to move to the High Court came after the Police Commissioner wrote the Registrar of the High Court, Sueanna Lovell, to obtain the certified copies of the documents, but was informed, by way of a letter, this could not be done without an order from the Court.

The time is now ripe for the judiciary to ensure that these fraud cases are heard, and justice is served.

Last year, defence attorneys applied for the prosecution to drop some of the cases to expedite the proceedings. It is interesting to note that, earlier this month, the defendants’ attorney, Nigel Hughes, suggested that the prosecution drop some cases to expedite the proceedings.

He claimed there was extensive evidence and the number of defendants involved, suggesting that the case might take several years

to progress. Hughes’ suggestion was met with strong objections from the prosecution. He was reminded of a similar application before the former Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, which was rejected. Notably, on dismissing the application, the Chief Magistrate had ordered that the case be heard expeditiously giving its national importance.

This came after, Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhani, KC, who is representing the state in the electoral fraud case, called for the assignment of a special court to hear the evidence in the electoral fraud cases.

The Special Prosecutor also called for the cases to be consolidated into one, as the underlying evidence stems from the same source.

Further, he offered to write to the Chancellor of Judiciary (ag) Yonette Cummings and the Chief Magistrate to discuss potential

solutions and the appointment of a dedicated magistrate. This matter is now expected to be settled on December 12, 2023.

These cases must be resolved before the next General and Regional Elections.

As our nation awaits the trial and completion of the hearing of these fraud cases, it is concerning to learn that some of the alleged fraudsters are still employed at GECOM, and some are even seeking contract renewals to continue working there.

Guyanese citizens have endured the involvement of these individuals in rigged elections for far too long.

The court must ensure that it supports the effort to ensure that rigged elections remain a thing of the past, more so as Guyana progresses on a path of transformational development.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Guyana Stores, Massy Supermarket, National Park and Guyana

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill on the Gildarie-Freddie Kissoon Show said he believes in an opposition party. He said it is needed to keep the “government on its toes” (his words). I think most humans, perhaps all, accept that a country should have opposition parties, independent civil society groups and responsible, non-political media houses to report on the contents of society.

I believe even persons that did not go to school and can hardly read and write would tell you if you engage them that a country should have such organisations. The sad aberration in Guyana is that rights, liberties, justice and moral values are neglected because the media, opposition parties and civil society groups have an insane obsession with the government only and not the general contents of society.

The consequence of that is pessimism and resignation in people because they feel that society is empty and uncaring and there is no one

to turn to. The most graphic example I can think of was the hundred dollar increase by river taxi owners. No one came to their defense with the logical argument that they are also income earners who have live with increased prices for goods and services.

How do you think these people feel about opposition parties, the media and civil society groups? They are flippant about them because they know that all these organisations do every minute of the day is to look only and only at what the government does.

But the Guyanese people want them to go beyond their anti-government agendas.

I saw an unacceptable, unpleasant occurrence in the National Park and wrote about it. No civil society group, the media or the opposition showed any interest.

I saw the security of the park prevented a group of Venezuelans from worshiping under one of the wooden tents. This was unbelievable. This was pubic space to which residents in Guyana are entitled to use. Fortunately, on com-

plaining to the chairman of the National Park, Mr. Robert Persaud, the Venezuelans were allowed.

Here is what I saw in the park on Thursday morning.

A worker was cleaning the septic tank without gloves.

During intervals, he would drink from a bottle of water he put on a nearby bench. I told him to stop but the supervisor insultingly asked me if I was looking for a story to write about. I threaten to call the Ministry of Labour on her.

Massy Supermarket is owned by one of the richest Caribbean families. It recently made a huge investment in the US. Its breakfast was $450. Then suddenly one day, it went to $940. Not a hundred dollars increase but $500. Its lunch was $950, then, suddenly one day, it went up to $1540. Not by a hundred dollar but $600.

Do you know who buy the breakfast and lunch? The ordinary workers in Massy and the workers from Movie Towne Mall. The middle class and the foreigners who

shop at Massey do not buy such items. I have stopped buying both. The identical amount of lunch is $1000 at Giftland Supermarket. But from next month, Massy takes over Giftland Supermarket. So, I lose out again.

Massy is going to up Giftland’s lunch to $1540.

There is a private dance school in the National Park as distinct from the one administered by the Ministry of Culture. Last Sunday morning that dance school took a homeless man and asked him to climb up one of the tallest palm trees you can find anywhere in the world.

When I saw him at the top

of the tree with no security gear, I almost dropped dead.

I threatened to call the police.

Can the Ministry of Labour investigate that incident? I was a witness.

I accompanied my wife to Guyana Stores where she went to shop for cloth to make two pants (not for me but for her). I saw a t-shirt sale; it was $500 for one.

The first one had two holes.

The second one had two holes. The third one I picked up had four holes. All of the t-shirts were more holy than righteous. How can you sell a t-shirt for $500 with so many holes? Sadly, this country does not have an active Con-

sumer Association.

Finally, last week, I wrote another critique of the commercial banks. I can’t believe some of the horror stories people relate to me as a response to the column. After reading those tales, I am convinced that the commercial banks in Guyana have gone berserk and will completely kill off the small business sector in Guyana, a sector that is priceless to an economy like ours. Marx is dead. Gandhi is dead. Mandela is dead.

Gorbachev is dead. And I am not feeling too well myself.

listening that can bring about therapeutic value for all parties involved.”

He stresses the need to empathise with clients but declares this is more than just seeing from that person’s perspective but “…after you see from their perspective, you have a clearer agreement that what they intended with their transmission, based on what they’re saying… you got it exactly as they intended.”

Hannays points out that from listening closely to people talking about themselves you can detect inconsistencies, then go on to outline those, provide options and then “leave it up to them to make a choice to shift their opinions about themselves, the world and their interaction

with the world.”

He also advises that we should be mindful of the questions we ask, keeping them to a minimum and steering clear of ‘why’ and ‘what’, which tend to put people on the spot, causing them to go into “defensive mode.”

A better strategy, one rooted in motivation interviewing, is to constantly ask people what they mean by a particular comment or statement, which leads

them to further explain themselves in their own words and come to their own understanding – an ‘ah ha’ moment.

And in words of encouragement, Britain’s Prince Harry said, with a touch of humour, “The experience I have had is that once you start talking about (experiencing a mental health struggle), you realise that actually you’re part of quite a big club.”

Getting people to talk

WHILE some people find it relatively easy to express what is on their mind and have no difficulty talking about their relationship and emotional challenges, others clam up, feeling awkward and unable to describe their thoughts.

Through the ages women have complained that men do not talk about their feelings. They talk about work, business, sports, their houses, their cars, their children – anything but what is bothering them emotionally.

Generally, women are far more inclined to admit to psychological or emotional problems and willing to discuss them with close friends, one or more family members or a mental health professional.

Men have been schooled from boyhood to solve their emotional problems themselves and, in fact, to not even admit to certain feelings such as anxiety or depression.

The English refer to this as keeping ‘a stiff upper lip’ – remaining stoic and seemingly untroubled, despite the emotional turmoil that may be raging within.

In recent years, experts have been turning these notions ‘on their heads’ urging everyone to talk about what ails them, whether physical or mental.

Psychotherapist, Megan Bruneau says the main reason a person might have a hard time opening up is that they don’t feel “emotionally safe”, and may not be able to answer ques-

tions, “…because they haven’t asked the questions of themselves.” But above all the experts agree on the importance of listening And Canada-based Guyanese counsellor and therapist, Shirvington Hannays, confirms this saying, “I know how I get people to talk, I disarm them by doing what most people don’t do – listen.” He also observes that people love to talk about themselves, but in communicating in relationships, “We don’t get to talk enough about ourselves…in a way that is assertive, not self-centered and self-absorbed.”

The therapist went on to talk of sharing to build connections, along with trust and respect, which he terms the “three key elements of good, active

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Oil companies supporting agriculture, food security initiatives

WHEN the local oil and gas industry emerged following the 2015 discovery by ExxonMobil in the Stabroek Block, headlines soon followed, raising concerns that the country would fall prey to the dreaded ‘Dutch Disease’ or the natural resource curse.

Fears of sole reliance on the petroleum sector and the consequences of an economy that lacked diversification inundated the news; however, over the last eight years, the country has seen signifi-

cant spending in its other productive sectors, while oil and gas companies have provided support for the agriculture sector to propel the country towards its food security goals.

On Friday, October 20, the country’s annual Agri-Investment Forum and Expo weas held. At that event, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced that ExxonMobil Guyana and its co-venturers Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited would be funding

the expansion of the Agriculture Innovative and Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP)—a multi-million US dollar investment. The funding is being provided through the consortium’s Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI), a US$100 million programme to build capacity in Guyana.

The President noted that this project, which will see the development of hydroponic farms in Regions Two, Five and 10, will benefit hundreds of young people and play a pivotal role in Guyana’s food security objectives. It is being marketed as a key initiative in supporting Guyana’s commitment to aid in reducing CARICOM’s food import bill by

25 per cent by 2025.

This project is not the first such effort by oil and gas companies to support the country’s agriculture sector, in keeping with Guyana’s ambition to be the ‘breadbasket of the Caribbean’.

The GGI funded a Hinterland Poultry Project valued at more than GY$120 million or US$608,000 to boost the poultry industry in the hinterland region.

Before the introduction of that project, the Rupununi alone was spending hundreds of millions of dollars on importing meat and eggs from neighbouring Brazil.

Through the companies’ investment, local farmers were trained and provided with equipment to hatch their

chicks, rear their chickens and process and package the meat.

ExxonMobil’s prime contractors are making similar efforts. SBM Offshore is the builder and operator of the Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels producing oil offshore.

In 2020, the company launched its ‘Green Farms Initiative’, which saw an investment into constructing a greenhouse facility that spans three acres at the Guyanese-owned Plympton Farms, located at Dora, along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

This farm produces fresh vegetables that were previously imported to supply the FPSOs operating offshore and the catering company that provides meals for SBM Offshore’s onshore locations. The farm utilised advanced hydroponic technology, supporting sustainable farming development while providing employment opportunities for neighbouring community residents.

Simultaneously, the company is contributing significantly to the country’s

aquaculture sector through the Hubu Aquaculture Project. Through this initiative, SBM Offshore supports the development of Hubu AquaFarms, located on the East Bank of Essequibo. A hatchery, which is rearing premium shrimp and prawns, has been completed at Le Destin while the grow-out ponds are being constructed at Hubu.

Guyana’s agriculture sector remains pivotal to the country’s economic growth. From the expansion of agro-processing to investment in new crops and technology, the government has been deliberate in its approach to ensure that Guyana reaches its food production objectives. The supporting efforts of these oil and gas companies to push the country’s accomplishments in this area speak to the importance of private sector support and local content development, even outside their main activities. Such collaboration and initiatives are essential factors in creating a diversified economy.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Unity against aggression The government must be commended for how it is skillfully handling this most recent threat

by Venezuela to Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.

It has been calm, sober, cool, and tactful in its verbal rebuke to the murmurs and manufactured protestations of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. This kind of response is backed by the government’s continued belief in international law, justice, diplomacy and the rule of law which are standing on Guyana’s side.

The government is also showing the world that it believes in the confidence of its case against Venezuela at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and will not yield a blade of grass of its territory. The government understands the principle when dealing with matters such as these, therefore, it is slow to speak and quick to launch a counter-response if, where, when, and how it deems appropriate and fit.

While it is understandable that the Guyanese public and all the stakeholders doing business in the area that Venezuela claims are concerned, the government knows that it cannot be hasty and act as if it is scared.

This unified stance on this issue, adopted by the government led

by Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Opposition

parties led by Aubrey Norton, is a step in the right direction and sends a strong message to Venezuela as the world watches on.

The truth is that the Essequibo Region belonged to Guyana since the Tribunal Award of 1899 settled this question of territory and since Venezuela signed the said Award in 1905.

So, CARICOM, the UN, world bodies, and other international agencies will stand on the side of justice, what is right, and international law.

Firstly, Maduro is desperate and clinging at straws. He, more than any other politician, knows too well that he does not have a case to pursue here. He is just playing the game of domestic politics in Venezuela but is forced to deflect from the attention, policies, food shortages, economic shortfalls, recession and political situation there.

Maduro chooses to look to Guyana and specifically the Essequibo and that could be his last chance of whipping up electoral support ahead of any planned democratic election in that country. He will milk this issue for all it’s worth while the substantive ICJ is no doubt dealing with settling the question before it again, and once and for all.

Recall, we hold firm that the Award is binding on all parties and it was settled decades ago.

So, politically Maduro's show of strength and continued aggression towards Guyana must be seen in this context.

The Guyana Government has its eyes set on monitoring all activities and developments along the border, as the President, Prime Minister and GDF Head have said.

Secondly, the opposition in Venezuela knows this too. They are not genuine in their support of Maduro’s falsehoods when it comes to Guyana. A large faction knows this but will not risk the Venezuelan public’s ire on the matter, lest they play right into Maduro’s hand.

After all, this referendum that he has planned for December 3, 2023, is seen as a pathway through which he can open the door to annex Guyana’s territory.

Whichever way it goes, Guyana’s posture will be prepared to use any rational and available avenue that is realistic to counter that illegality.

Before that, Venezuela’s opposition must focus their attention on the many issues in relation to good governance, transparency and accountability of the management of that nation’s oil wealth and the humanitarian crisis still ongoing in that South American country.

It needs to grow proverbial balls and take Maduro’s government to task over failed agreements and deals that did not follow through with the promise of true democracy and democratic rule in Venezuela.

If Hugo Chavez could not get away with it, then the world does not see why Maduro should. He must not be allowed to divert to this border controversy and say that the US is using Guyana to wage war against Venezuela.

It simply does not make sense. It also is uninspiring to his fictitious claim to Guyana’s territory.

T h i r d l y, G u y a n a hopefully must not just monitor the developments. The government here must immediately restart with vigor the ‘public education campaign’ on the border controversy. It must take this campaign to social media, new media and traditional media where

the most influence is.

It must have an aggressive and diplomatic thrust to remind the new and upcoming members of the public that Guyana ‘is we own’, explaining in short clips and pictures the facts surrounding the border controversy.

The government and opposition cannot fail Guyana and must ensure its politics stay united and grounded when talking about Guyana’s border dispute.

Finally, if one cannot stand on the principles governing this issue, then one will surely fall for anything. There is a hive of public misinfor-

mation following from Venezuela to Guyana via the media on this matter.

Guyana must fight off any attempt, even the misinformation about Venezuelan immigrants, refugees, and insurgents allegedly strategically placed in Essequibo and all over Guyana, to poison the minds of the stakeholders that have to decide the country’s fate.

Guyana is not letting the Essequibo go, not now and not ever.

The national patriotism is high but more work has to be done to get it higher.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

‘Until we meet again…’

A father’s veritable tribute to a virtual Guyana son

FROM Life to Death – and in between – hardly-anything has happened in my life without a Guyana-touch.

Indeed, my Guyana story spans poetry and prose, politics and religion, culture and media, featuring friends and frenemies - and also involving births and anniversaries, weddings and funerals, etc.

Between my family’s arrival in 1993 to our departure in 1999, from our homes at Station Street, Kitty to Atlantic Ville, East Coast Demerara (ECD), my life’s Guyana chapter is long -- and lasting in memory.

My first son Samora is Grenadian and visited us annually before my last son, Amani, was born in 1996 at Mercy Hospital in Georgetown.

My daughter Charlene (Melida) and two other sons, Chad and Jeavaughn, all went to city schools, all-three attending St. Margaret’s Primary, Charlene continuing at St. John’s

College and Chad at Richard Ishmael Secondary.

Going home after school was another daily adventure: they didn’t take ‘the bus’, instead gathering at the Sea Wall’s intersection with Sheriff Street to ‘walk the wall’ to Atlantic Ville.

My wedding was at Brickdam Cathedral in 1997, followed by the usual walk and photo-shoots across the Kissing Bridge at the Botanical Gardens and a reception at the (then) Ocean View Hotel at Liliendal, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Jeavaughn grew-up in Guyana and was distinguished by his habit of sucking-his-thumb, leading to eventually being christened ‘Suck Finger’— a name he left no doubt that he absolutely abhorred.

He also stammered -another characteristic that attracted negative attention and easily angered him, especially when taunted by friends he could ventoff on.

The three children would happily share interesting ‘Guyana stories’ whenever they returned to Saint Lucia (every Christmas) about ‘Life in a country that is not an island is over 200-times the size of Saint Lucia…’

They shared bragging rights and rites on experiences shared with neighbouring friends their age ‘from the ville’ about: ‘fishing barefoot and by hand, walking backwards in a muddy gutter, for piranhas and little alligators’ and ‘Sunday cook-ups in the back-dam’, ‘seeing more kites in the air than all the people in Saint Lucia on Easter Mondays’, ‘Crossing nine Black Rivers from Timehri to Linden’, ‘Climbing and riding the pregnant belly of the Demerara Bridge’ and ‘Visiting Essequibo Islands in a van and a boat, without stepping-out of the vehicle, or into the water…’

Family friends all knew Jeavaughn by his first name, even if (like our

surname) they also found it difficult to pronounce – from Presidents Cheddi and Janet Jagan, Prime Minister and Mrs Sam and Yvonne Hinds and to Information Minister Moses Nagamootoo to MPs Donald Ramotar, Clement Rohee, Shirley Edwards and Gail Teixeira, Office of the President (OP) senior functionary June Ward, Paul and Rohini Bonar of Alexander Village, members of the Guyana Relief Council (GRC) and others too numerous to mention.

These also include Doris Lewis, the lady behind our wedding, who convinced Marie and I that after ‘living together for 19 years with four children’, outside of Holy Matrimony, we were ‘living long in sin’…

Doris was sensitive enough to know how to pronounce Jeavaughn’s name flawlessly, unlike the likes of my Robb Street, Georgetown watering-hole PPP comrades like Mirror newspaper photographer George Lee, ‘Horse’, ‘Pank’ and ‘Haroon’, who always exercised their ‘adult prerogative’ to call him ‘Suck Finger’ – and dare him to say anything.

Jeavaughn’s acquired skills in Saint Lucia grew him into a marble-stone cutter, land surveyor, motorcycle riding instructor – and a Salsa dance teacher.

Earlier this year, his infliction by a deadly internal illness led to a visibly accelerated deterioration of his physical structure and prolongation of his suffering, resulting in several trips to-and-from hospital -- until his last ride on the night of October 17.

Jeavaughn’s life on earth would expire on the morning of October 18

at the OKEU Hospital in Castries, aged 34.

After the expected but unavoidable call came, the seasoned father and grandpa in me, alongside my mother Ina’s oldest son, locked myself away from the world for the next 24 hours, if only to process the latest vibes and ‘consult my brain’ (as elder Guyanese would say) on how to ensure Jeavaughn gets a good final flight to the Land of No Return.

But his elder brother’s departure hit Amani the hardest, having once passed Jeavaughn twice at a KFC outlet without recognising him.

However, even though it ended his stifling pain and endless misery, every family member is still in grief.

Ditto our neighbours at Atlantic Ville, including Aunties Wendy and Margaret, Uncles David and Brian, as well as ‘Miss David’ -- Jeavaughn and his siblings’ favorite teacher.

Me? Like the rest of the family, I’m coping as best as anyone with the following track-record of forever losses can: • Marie died on July 13, 2017 – Chad’s birth anniversary • Marie’s Sister Julianna (Pinky) died seven months later on February 17, 2018 (Samora’s birthday) • My youngest brother Charles died on December 21, 2018 • Our uncle ‘Clive’ (Ina’s brother, Michael Mondesir, ex-principal of St. Mary’s College) died in 2019 • My second-youngest brother Alex died on October 10, 2020 – one week ahead of his birthday

• O u r We d d i n g Day and Marie’s Funeral Service were both on her birthday (August 2) -- and on the same date in 2020, the PPP/C took its rightful place as the duly-elected government of Guyana • The March 13, 2020 PPP/C election victory was on the 41st Anniversary of the Grenada Revolution, which I also served • Amani’s first child (a girl) was born on October 13 – five days before the end of Jeavaughn’s slow death, ensuring his replacement arrived before his departure.

• And Jeavaughn will be buried November 9, his 35th birth-date Thanks to the forcedripe soldier and sailor in me, I’ve acquired an unenviable ability to cry dry tears and soak deep pain while caring for all others, before looking-out for me.

However, even as I wax between lukewarm-andcold over my son’s last post and final flight, I cannot but hasten to make two final points.

Firstly, losing six family members in six nights is nowhere in comparison with Gaza residents today losing entire families to Israeli bombs.

And secondly, I’ve also developed the ability to remind us, at every opportunity, that we are all in Life’s departure launch, each with a one-way ticket, only awaiting our Final call and Gate Number.

All that said, I did get the opportunity to talk to Jeavaughn about his illness -- and to say reaffirm that we will always remain us – father and son, ‘until death do us part…’

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

‘A brilliant idea’ - President Ali happy with farmers’ market at Eve Leary

IN an effort to bring cheaper produce to consumers across Guyana and to foster a more unified community for all Guyanese, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have once again organised their annual farmers’ market drive at the Eve Leary Police Ground in the capital city.

In an early morning visit to the Eve Leary Ground, President Dr Irfaan Ali commended the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and the Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, for the initiative of bringing the public and the GPF together in a harmonious environment.

“The government is

low our men and women in uniform to buy directly from the farmers, but it also creates a new atmosphere, one in which people get to interact and integrate with each other at a different level and also the environment in which it is being held. It more looks like a fair than a farmer’s market, and that adds to the value, it adds to the experience, and I am very happy to see so many young people being out here and enjoying this experience also,” President Ali said.

Hearing the success stories of the people at the farmers’ market, President Ali anticipated that this would be “a common feature" at Eve Leary Ground, as well as, in other regions throughout

Consumers purchasing produce from the Eve Leary Farmers’ Market working to ensure that we find creative and innovative ways in which we cushion the impact of global increases, especially in food items. As a result of that, I think that the initiative of going to the Joint Services in expanding the farmers’ market is an exceptionally good concept.

“Not only does it al-

the country.

“I was told that people have been out here since four a.m. this morning; the farmers market was just a brilliant idea."

In an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, Minister Mustapha explained that this initiative was launched to provide consumers with cheaper produce while also giving

farmers a better price for their harvests.

“Last year we started our farmers’ market in Region Four, but all the regions will be included this year. This is a measure that we have incorporated in all the regions to bring relief to farmers and consumers across the country.

“What we have found out over the years is that the middlemen were making a large chunk of the profit, and they were sending up the cost of these products. So now that we are working with the farmers on both sides, it is a win-win situation for all involved; the farmers are making better profits, and the consumers are enjoying cheaper prices,” the agriculture minister noted.

He added, “Although we have markets around the country, I also wanted the Disciplined Forces to be involved, meet, and mix with the public and enjoy the event as well.

I have had discussions with the Commissioner of Police and the Chiefof-Staff about the introduction of farmers’ markets at their locations so that everyone can benefit.”

Minister Mustapha further stated that these initiatives have shown the government’s commitment to the food drive in Guyana and to making the country more food secure. However, he added that these initiatives are also a testament to Guyana being one of the main countries to supply its produce locally, regionally, and internationally.

The minister emphasised, "With the participation of the members of the Joint Services and the public, we are building everyone's confidence in each other. We are building a country where the people and the members of the GPF can communicate and have a good relationship with each other.”

A wine producer from Buxton Village on the East Coast of Demerara at the Farmers’ Market

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Chinese medical team repairs crucial eye-care equipment at GPHC

IN a heartwarming display of dedication and solidarity, the 19th China Medical Team arrived in Guyana in September, marking the 30th anniversary of China's medical aid to the South American nation. Their mission?

To continue a legacy of providing crucial medical support and equipment to Guyana, particularly at the largest public hospital in Georgetown, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Upon their arrival, the 19th China Medical Team swiftly transitioned into their roles, which included the essential task of taking over responsibilities from the 18th team.

Dr. Liu Yi, an ophthalmologist with the 19th team, quickly realised that a vital anterior segment laser therapeu-

Members of the China Medical Team repairing a vital anterior segment laser therapeutic instrument at the GPHC’s Eye Centre that was out of commission due to a faulty circuit board, with no local replacement parts available tic instrument at the GPHC's Eye Centre was out of commission due to a faulty circuit board, with no local replacement parts available.

Responding to the pressing need, Zhao Changyong, the leader of the 19th medical

team, led the charge in addressing this issue.

Discussions among the team members were held, and with the assistance of Dr. Shi Yu from the 18th medical team, who specialises in ophthalmology, equipment parts were procured from China.

This proved to be a challenging endeavour, as these crucial components had to traverse thousands of miles to reach Guyana.

With the equipment parts in hand, a team effort ensued as Dr. Liu Yi, Dr. Li Hu from the plastic surgery de-

partment, and Dr. Xie Yin-fei from the acupuncture-moxibustion department, came together to repair the vital equipment at the Eye Centre of Georgetown Hospital.

Their successful repair effort re-instated the instrument's functionality, ensuring that patients would continue to receive the essential eye care they required.

Remarkably, when praised for their skilled hands and compassionate hearts, the medical team responded humbly, saying, “such stories happened many times before.”

This year marks three decades of China's unwavering medical aid to Guyana. Over this time, China has generously donated substantial quantities of medical equipment and medicines to the country.

In addition, they have played a pivotal role in establishing various clinical specialised centres within local public hospitals, which have served to foster

and develop the skills of countless medical professionals. Their contributions have significantly advanced the local medical field and earned them the admiration and gratitude of the Guyanese people.

Throughout their remarkable journey, the Chinese medical teams have displayed resilience, overcoming numerous obstacles to fill critical medical gaps in the region. Their roles have extended far beyond that of medical practitioners; they have served as doctors, teachers, and ambassadors of friendship.

But th e ir contributions also encompass a wide array of services, from handling water and electricity issues to providing hairdressing services when needed.

Their dedication has undoubtedly strengthened the bonds of friendship and co-operation between China and Guyana, making a lasting impact on healthcare in the nation.

Some 7,000 contracts currently - Dr. Jagdeo announces being executed

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

DESPITE the challenges emerging from the procurement sector, approximately 7,000 contracts are currently being carried out, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo revealed on Thursday last.

“On the big scale of things, we have about 7000 contracts under implementation,” Dr. Jagedeo told a party press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown.

The contracts are being executed out at various levels including at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Ministerial and National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

These contracts are from both the current and capital budgets.

Just last month, small contractors signed 16

contracts valued $182 million for the construction of several roads and bridges in Albouystown and Castello Housing Scheme, West La Penitence.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, said the contract signing constituted the second phase of the infrastructure upgrade in the area.

It encompasses the construction of eight roads and connecting bridges.

Streets to be upgraded include Victoria Street, Cooper Street, Non Pariel Street and Castello Street among others, while bridges are in Campbell Street, Callender Street and East of Callender Street.

The minister said that with the eight streets to be upgraded,

Works ongoing at west of Callender Street (from the middle road to alleyway)

they were split into two lots so as to ensure that more small contractors benefit and play a role in building out the community.

Against this backdrop, he advised the contractors to plan well before time, and engage the engineers and teams from the ministry.

Indar further encouraged the contractors to ensure that they employ people within their own communities to contribute to the development

of their communities while also benefitting.

In August, the Public Works Minister said that the second phase would have begun soon, noting that 1.8 m of road works were completed in phase one and included the revamped Independence Boulevard.

At that time, he debunked the claims made by the political opposition that most of the roads were incomplete.

He indicated that all the roads could not be dug up at once as they must cater for medical emergencies, garbage removal and more.

One of the contractors, Angelina Christie, representing Angel’s General Enterprises, said that she was elated to have the opportunity to contribute to her community.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Free eye exams, glasses for Coomacka Mines residents

- land title problems, water woes, among issues solved

WITH the aim of bettering the quality of life for all Guyanese, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has said that much more development is on the cards for

Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

He made these remarks during an engagement with residents of Coomaka Mines.

“We are not a government that walks away from problems. We confront the challenges,” Dr. Ali said.

While highlighting some of the issues within

President Dr Irfaan Ali and other officials in Region 10 (Office of the President photo) the region, such as water woes, the President stated the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is investing in a deep water well and 100 black tanks will soon be available to the vulnerable.

He also stated that the land issues will be solved in the next four weeks and by the first quarter of 2024, those persons will receive their titles.

In addition, the Ministry of Health will begin a programme in the next two weeks that will provide free eye exams and free eyeglasses to senior citizens and children in the region.

The community’s health centre will be connected to the Linden Hospital and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) through telemedicine.

While highlighting the millions being injected into the region by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the President stated: “… We’re going to continue to spend. This region is going to be the centerpiece for sport and cultural development.”

As the journey progresses on the road to building a “One Guyana”, Dr. Ali said that even those who don’t embrace development are welcomed to join anytime.

“Development is music to the ears of those who have a conscience but development is painful to the ears of those who had an

opportunity but didn’t do anything,” the President emphasised.

Despite the neglect and lack of investments by the previous coalition government, Dr. Ali reflected on how his People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is not only enhancing all of the sectors but putting money back into the pockets of citizens.

BETTER EDUCATION Apart from restoration of the ‘Because We Care’ initiative, he stated: “In education alone, in the last three years, we have spent more than $2.3 billon.”

The ‘Because We Care’ initiative started in 2014 under the PPP/C Government and saw parents receiving cash grants of $10,000 per child in the public school system.

However, when the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) assumed office in 2015, the party discontinued the grant. When the PPP/C returned to government in 2020, they upheld their promise to restore the grant and increase it.

Touching on other measures that his administration has put forth in order to better the management of schools, Dr. Ali said $46 million was distributed under the National School Grant Programme.

With more than 2,300

young people now being trained as teachers, he stated that there are more 170 of them are from Region 10 and $1.1 billion was expended for the construction and maintenance of schools in the region.

Furthermore, the Headof-State recalled the complaints of inadequate textbooks when he first assumed office.

“For five years [under the previous government] no investment was made in giving the children textbooks,” he stated.

Expounding on how PPP/C government solved this issue, Dr. Ali stated: “In Region 10, we have spent $152 Million on ensuring that the children have textbooks in this region.”

Moreover, in the human services sector, he stated that almost $160 Million was expended and this was aimed at putting money back into the pensioners’ pockets.

The President then proudly announced: “We are going to ensure that before 2025, the school children grant goes to $50,000 per child and the old age pensioners will see even more increases,” underscoring that Guyana is the only country in the Western hemisphere that gives an additional month of pension.

Hundreds flock Farmers’ Market at Eve Leary

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

THE Guyana Police Force, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, on

at her booth. They also reap peppers, sorrel, oranges, and corn.

Hubert Bacchus, also

that the only thing required from the farmers was their produce, and she guaranteed a

ister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, highlighted the dire need for farmers’ market day,

nesses and Food Security’, which is in line with the CARICOM Heads of Government

Farmers were out in full force at the Farmers’ Market held at Eve Leary ground (Delano Williams photos)

Saturday, hosted its inaugural Farmers’ Market at the Guyana Police Force Ground, Eve Leary.

The Farmers’ Market saw boat loads of shoppers flocking the stands of farmers, catching as many bargains as they possibly could at the one-day activity.

This Farmers’ Market was geared at supporting local farmers and their produce at reduced costs for consumers.

One farmer from Linden, Kellysa Peters, stated that the initiative was of great benefit as they received great support from other farmers and the general public.

Peters grows both fruits and vegetables, some of which were on display

known as ‘Eddo Man’, from Kuru-Kuru noted that farming is something he has always enjoyed doing, and after serving in the army for some time, he moved to Kuru-Kuru, where he planted eddoes.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Leslyn Halley explained that the GPF has been making strong strides toward collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture.

“We’re not just trying to detect crime, we’re preventing crime and one of the ways we can do that is to meet and collaborate with the communities.”

Additionally, Community Relations Officer and Superintendent, Althea Scipio, remarked

safe and secure environment.

Adding her comments were Welfare Officer and Superintendent, Allison Moore, who noted that the activity would be a learning experience for ranks and the general public, noting that, “They would be in a position to interact with those farmers, to have tips on how to cultivate their own crops, how to rare livestock, or whatever their trying to do.”

At the Leonora farmers’ market in the first weeks of October, Min-

adding that farmers’ markets will be started in an effort to help to maintain the prices of products.

In addition to farmers, a number of other entities were present with their products including the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the Guyana Marketing Corporation, Naked Soaps Guyana, and Mahaica Organics.

Agriculture Month 2023 is being held under the theme ‘Accelerating Vision 25, by 2025: In Agri Busi-

commitment to reduce

the Region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Over 150 healthcare workers to receive young professional homes by first quarter of 2024 AS the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government continues to execute its massive housing programme, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has announced that, by the first quarter of 2024, over 150 healthcare workers will receive their young professional homes in Plantation York, Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

He made the announcement, on Saturday, during the commissioning of the US$130,000 state-of-the-art Digital X-ray System at the Linden Hospital Complex.

“Before the end of this year, the 150 plus [people] who’ve applied for the young professional homes, we [will] have them prequalified and have the bank approve their loans so by the end of the first quarter next year, they can have and move into their young professional homes in region Ten,” the President stated.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali with the healthcare workers in Region Ten (Office of the President photo) Earlier this year, the nounced that the government The newly identified Chief Executive Officer of has found a new location to housing area is situated at the Central Housing and accelerate the government’s Plantation York along the Planning Authority (CH&- 1000 homes project in Lin- Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

Initially, the government PA), Sherwyn Greaves, an- den.

had started developing an area at Millie’s Hideout to construct the houses as part of a commitment by President Ali to build 1,000 homes to meet the housing needs in the mining town. Greaves explained that the project was halted after it was discovered that a significant bauxite reserve was present in the area.

As a result, Greaves stated that the government was able to identify a new location for the project, spanning over 500 acres of land, thanks to the efforts of President Ali. The CEO expressed his confidence that the new location will prove suitable for the 1000 homes project, and work will commence shortly.

The development will include a residential area as well as commercial and industrial zones. All necessary amenities including roads, bridges, drainage, culverts, electricity, and water will be included.

“This is a larger location…the other things that come with it are creeks running through it. And so, we thought it best that we will put some commercial activity…if persons see the area, I am sure they will want to build hotels and resorts there,” he said.

Currently, 20 of the 40 elevated and flat units in Amelia’s Ward have been completed as part of the first phase of the project.

According to Greaves, these houses will be delivered to the respective allottees within a month.

The initiative is a key component of the government’s affordable housing programme, aimed at providing opportunities for Guyanese citizens to become homeowners.

It is also aligned with the government’s manifesto commitment to allocate 50,000 house lots by the year 2025.

North Sophia CDC secures $4.2M contract for construction of community centre fence

(From left to right) Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy and Chairperson of the Sophia Community Development Council, Uriah France

THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development has awarded a $4.2 million contract to the North So-

phia Community Development Council for the construction of the community centre’s fence.

At the signing ceremo-

ny held at the Community Centre on Friday, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development,

Signing of the contract between Permanent Secretary, Miguel Choo-Kang and chairperson of the Sophia Community Development Council, Uriah France

Anand Persaud, encouraged residents to collaboratively devise programmes that will see further development of the community.

“I want you to promise me that North Sophia can be the best part of Sophia, of all of Sophia. I pledge once again that I will try my utmost best [sic] to

support you all,” the minister reassured.

Minister Kwame McCoy, who holds responsibility for Public Affairs, TURN TO PAGE 22

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Essequibo Trade Fair receives generous support from local businesses MORE than 100 local businesses from different sectors participated in the biggest Essequibo Chambers of Com-

presented them with marketing possibilities and an opportunity to show their offerings to the Essequibo popula-

ised on various business prospects. She has high hopes that the expo will strengthen her business.

David mentioned that her designs have been skillfully selected, and she expresses joy in bringing her talent to Region Two. Frank Sanichara, the owner of Suri Trading, expressed his satisfaction in participating in the

According to Kerencie Bacchus, the owner of KT Decor, a woman-owned business in Essequibo, she is leveraging her talent and skills to attract clients. Her hope is that the Expo will generate a clientele for her. Bacchus originated from the town of Chairty.

She is employing skilled artisans to craft a col-

- Over 100 businesses participated

network in Region Two. Shivdyal mentioned his utilisation of Virgin coconut products to create nutritious items. He stated that he had received an invitation to the expo and took advantage of the chance to build connections for distribution purposes.

Savina Sukhanand, representing Lily's Organic, stated that she has introduced a new product

presented their offerings to the public. People were spotted engaging in pedestrian activity and interacting with the proprietor.

Dhanraj Singh, Vice President of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce and Industry, expressed satisfaction with the level of participation and support received from local businesses. Fur-

Owner of Craft-a-holic, Natasha Profeiro and her products

merce and Industry (ECCI) Agro and Trade Fair, which took place at the Anna Regina Secondary school ground on Friday night. The event continued on Saturday, providing businesses with a chance to establish connections for future business prospects.

tion.

Among those individuals was Diego Hopkinson, who introduced the renowned "rice chain" and several chain rings.

Hopkinson stated that the initial night sale was satisfactory, but she hopes for an increase in sales and greater awareness of her business. She stated

Some persons viewing the booths

Expo once again, emphasising the platform it provides for businesses to engage with the business community. A large number of people come to know about products, especially during their introduction. He stated

lection of flower bouquets embellished with pearls. She is optimistic that people will back her business, leading to a growth in order numbers.

According to Chris Shivdayal from Only Coconut Products, this

Persons at Lily’s organic booth

and believes that it is an ideal moment to offer a sample. According to her, she always anticipates participating in expos as a means to establish connections and engage with customers.

The expo included booths from governmental agencies, which

thermore, he extended his appreciation to the president for generously allocating $1.5 million to the ECCI, enabling it to sustain its operations. According to Singh, the first night was successful and without any incidents.

Jets Enterprise of Deakinderen Housing Scheme and their products

Business owners were delighted to participate in the expo, as they claimed that the impact of COVID-19 had adversely affected their businesses, causing many closures. They also conveyed that the expo

that she has been coming to all of the expos held in Region Two. Natasha David, from David Creative's Design, mentioned that it was her inaugural participation in the expo, where she successfully capital-

Only Coconuts from Linden showcasing their products

that the expo provides a platform for sampling and gathering individuals' perspectives.

marks their inaugural venture, and they are additionally seeking to expand their distribution

Another exhibitor at the trade fair at Cotton Field

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

287 contracts signed for new roads in Region Six

WITH development moving at a rapid pace in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the authorities are working to ensure that the region is not only known for the production of sugar cane and rice.

This is according to Regional Chairman David Armogan, who told the Sunday Chronicle that while those are two

valuable resources for the country, he is happy that the government has made tremendous investments to develop different sectors in the region.

According to him, 287 contracts were signed recently for the development of roads in the region.

“Our region is developing at a very fast rate and only two days ago

we signed 287 contracts for new roads that will be built right across Region Six, with 119 contractors getting the jobs.

“This is also good news for the people of Region Six because the contractors will be employing people from the respective communities.

After the completion of the 287 roads, we would have completed a total of

855 roads since we took office in 2020, and that is a massive achievement for any government to do within three and a half years,” the regional chairman related.

Armogan noted that the President's goal of improving employment prospects for Guyana's population is what he believes is motivating the youths across the country

The Regional Chairman for Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne, David Armogan

and those in Region Six to improve their lives and forge a better future for themselves.

“President Irfaan Ali is an extremely talented and youthful leader with a vision and one who intends to create a wealthy nation through the developments in Berbice and right across Guyana. He and his government are moving to ensure that projects are being built and employment is being created, and with these developments, the private sector is becoming increasingly interested in investing in the region and the country. With all the development that is happening in Palmyra, we are also looking to start a four-lane highway in the new year.”

Armogan also stated that not so far away from the village of Palmyra there is the CGX deep-water wharf, which he anticipates will come on stream by the end of this year or the first quarter of next year.

“When that wharf comes on stream, it will have small ships that will come into the port, not only to take in fuel, but also to be able to take cargo into the smaller islands into the Caribbean. In terms of employment and the expansion of businesses, that will also boost our people in Region Six and our country.”

He also noted that the deep-water harbour and

the oil refinery are two other major projects that will be developed in the Palmyra area and will create massive opportunities for the region and its people.

Finally, Armogan said that he is incredibly happy that his region, like the others, is being developed so that the people of Region Six will have endless job opportunities.

“Today, I am pleased to say that a lot of activities are happening in this region, especially in the Palmyra area. Not so long ago, this area and many other areas were basically canefields. These lands were owned by GuySuCo and while our major crops are sugarcane and rice, we are not putting those aside, but we are now transforming out of that and expanding in many other areas of business.

“We will be known for more than just rice and sugarcane; with these developments, Berbicians will not have to travel long distances with their families to go to Georgetown and enjoy the malls or conduct their businesses at the main government offices in Georgetown; we have already received some, and we are in the process of getting more of the facilities that we need in our region. With these developments, we will have people from other regions visiting us."

Uitvlugt woman celebrates 100th birthday

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

REBECCA Lashley, known widely as Eloise, was born on October 26, 1923, to Barbadians Joseph and Mathilda Lashley and was the only one in her family to be born in Guyana.

Her late parents came to Guyana with their daughters, (her elder sisters), Rhoda and Louise seeking employment opportunities in the former British colony.

There, they managed to find jobs on one of the sugar estates in the country as cane harvesters. Sometime later, Eloise’s father decided that he no longer wanted to spend the rest of his life in Guyana, and returned to Barbados where he passed away some years later.

Eloise married and was able to give birth to five children, four of whom are alive today.

Rebecca ‘Eloise’ Lashley at ages 100 and 64, respectively

The ages of her children range from 81, 74, 70 and 59 years respectively.

Now living at Uitvlugt, West Coast De-

merara, Eloise celebrated her 100th birthday three days ago.

With everything that she would have experienced, the centenarian

took those lessons and taught her children good morals. She taught them how to be independent and self-sufficient. Although this was some-

times tough for her children to do, they obeyed nevertheless.

Eloise was able to complete her primary education and went on

to learn the art of sewing and excelled as a seamstress; she made exceptional bridal gowns and a host of other pieces.

In addition to being a terrific seamstress, Eloise was also a housemaid for an overseer at the estate, where she was loved for her cooking and baking skills, and gained popularity for making tasty custard blocks and icicles.

As another source of income, she washed and ironed other people’s clothes. Eloise, according to her loved ones, can be described as a hardworking and caring woman and despite the many difficulties life threw her way, she is a fighter, never a quitter.

Eloise has continued to live in the community of Uitvlugt, and is seen as the matriarch of the village.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Multimillion dollar police facilities near completion PERMANENT Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally, on Friday conducted an inspection of two critical capital projects aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) - the Guyana Police Force IT Training Complex and the Rose Hall Police Station.

In Fort Wellington, Region Five, Ally was briefed on the progress of the IT Training Complex, a state-of-the-art facility earmarked to

The Rose Hall Police Station

be a cornerstone in advancing the technological landscape of the region. The complex, an ambitious venture with an allocated budget surpassing GY$80 million, is making impressive strides at 82 per cent completion.

This complex holds the potential to serve as a vital hub for training and technological advancements, showcasing a promising future for the area's technological development.

The work is currently concentrated on A section of the IT Training Complex

electrical installations, plumbing, painting, and external finishing touches.

In Region Six, the newly constructed Rose Hall Police Station is at an advanced stage, at 95 per cent practical completion.

This over GY$70 million infrastructure serves as a vital upgrade, replacing the previous outpost, and is equipped to host various departments and facilities critical for efficient law enforcement and community engagement.

The station's facilities include a community relations room, a case management system, a dedicated

traffic department, and a state-of-the-art criminal investigation department, indicating a robust commitment to enhancing law enforcement operations in the region.

During his visit, Ally expressed satisfaction with the progress, emphasising the importance of these developments in fortifying the region's security infrastructure. The Rose Hall Police Station represents more than just its modern appearance. It embodies a commitment to better community safety, modern policing, and improved public service.

$1.7 billion injected into enhancing NA Prison

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

- works rapidly progressing

Construction ongoing at Lots 1 and 2 THE New Amsterdam Prison is currently undergoing massive upgrades in order to improve living conditions for inmates.

On Friday lasxt, the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally, carried out a thorough inspection of the ongoing infrastructural works.

ing the prison's facilities.

The PS also underscored the significance of capital projects like this and their role in reshaping the prison’s infrastructure, for both staff and inmates.

Among several of the inspected lots, significant works were observed in lots two, four, and five.

Notably, there has al-

is the reconstruction of the Officer's Sports Club, the demolition of existing structures has already commenced. This segment has reached 10 per cent completion with a budget allocation of over $50 million.

For lot five, which is the construction of the Reception Building, a 12

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally, during the inspection of the lots (Ministry of Home Affairs photos) The PS inspected 10 distinct lots, which are valued at $1.7 billion. Ally’s visit aimed to assess the development and the status of various construction lots, which form part of the overall project of enhanc-

ready been a 15 per cent completion at lot two, which is the construction of male and female living quarters. It has an allocated budget of over $114 million.

For lot four, which

per cent completion has been achieved. This lot has an allocation of over $413 million. Also, the demolition of existing structures has already started.

Additionally, Ally’s visit placed focus on the

upcoming phases. This includes: Lot one, which involves the construction of Senior Officers' Living Quarters. This segment is in the mobilisation phase and preparations for imminent work have commenced.

Lots three, six, seven, eight, nine, and 10 are also in the mobilisation stage and according to the Ministry of Home Affairs; this represents the impending

drive in the project's implementation.

Lot three entails the construction of the kitchen and a storage bond, while lots six, seven, eight, and nine encompasses critical aspects like the infirmary annex, an overhead storage tank, a treatment plant, reconstruction of solitary and cell blocks.

In Lot 10, there is the construction of a training facility for inmates. Earlier

this year, it was announced that over $2 billion will be allocated to the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) for the provision of prisons and the payment of retention.

In addition to the New Amsterdam Prison, the Mazaruni and Lusignan Prisons will also undergo significant building upgrades. Work has already started at the Lusignan facility.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

GDF probes beating of soldier T H E G u y a n a D efence Force (GDF) has launched a “thorough” investigation into the assault of one of its soldiers which was recorded on video and has been widely circulated on social media.

A brief statement from the GDF noted that “the soldier in question has been absent without leave (AWOL) for over one year.”

“The GDF firmly condemns the actions seen in the video, and further, requests for

any information relating to same, be provided.”

The video shows th e y o u n g s o lid er, dressed in uniform, being restrained by several men while another, armed with a sharp object and masked, cuffed and beat him.

The armed man was being referred to as a ‘Daniel’ by a woman who was pleading for the soldier to be released.

Where and when the incident occurred is not clear at this time.

North Sophia...

FROM PAGE 16

underscored the government’s dedication to the development and employment of North Sophia residents.

“We have worked in many ways, not only to demonstrate our commitment and investment in the community through public infrastructure like this facility, but also to engage our young people and residents in training programmes offered by the government, facilitating job opportunities and fostering growth in North Sophia,” Minister McCoy stated.

Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce,

O n e i d g e Wa l r o n d , praised the residents for the quality execution of the project, which has created contractual opportunities for gainful employment.

“You have done a beautiful job, and now we can identify you for larger, national projects,” Minister Walrond explained.

The event was also attended by Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Ministry, Miguel Choo-Kang, and chairperson of the Sophia Community Development Council, Uriah France. (DPI)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Nketiah scores hat-trick as Arsenal thump Sheffield United

EDDIE Nketiah scored his first Premier League hat-trick as Arsenal extended their unbeaten start to the season with victory over Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium.

He opened the scoring with a deft touch and swivelled finish after Declan Rice's threaded ball caught out the United

ham.

The Gunners are unbeaten in 19 home games against United in all competitions since 1971.

O nce they got in front, it seemed there would only be one outcome.

United keeper Wes Foderingham saved fierce efforts from Gabriel Martinelli and Ben

first start of the season, gave Nketiah time and space to blast into the top corner. With less than an hour played, the match ball had been secured.

"It's amazing. It's not been easy - last month I lost my auntie so I want to dedicate these three goals to her. Her family was here watching so it is a really special moment,"

Eddie Nketiah scored his first Arsenal goal since August

defence.

Nketiah's thumping effort into the roof of the net increased Arsenal's lead against bottom-ofthe-table United.

A sensational strike from 25 yards completed a perfect afternoon for the England forward Nketiah, who has five league goals this season, all of which have come at home.

Fabio Vieira scored a late penalty after the video assistant referee (VAR) adjudged Oliver Norwood to have fouled him inside the area.

Takehiro Tomiyasu got on the end of a flick from Mohamed Elneny and poked home from a corner in stoppage time.

Victory lifted Arsenal up to second in the table, two points behind north London rivals Totten-

White as Arsenal asserted their dominance.

Nketiah steps up with Jesus absent Nketiah came into the starting line-up in place of Gabriel Jesus, who injured a hamstring in the midweek Champions League win against Sevilla, and took his opportunity with both hands.

He was alert to Rice's pass, taking a brilliant touch to wrongfoot Auston Trusty and fire home.

Foderingham flapped at a corner from Bukayo Saka and Nketiah pounced to slam in a half-volley from close range.

The confidence on display from Nketiah seemed to increase with each finish, culminating in a superb third.

A lay-off from Emile Smith Rowe, making his

Nketiah told BBC Match of the Day. Nketiah let Vieira take the penalty, sacrificing the chance to become only the third Arsenal player to score four goals in a Premier League match after Andrey Arshavin and Thierry Henry.

"My first instinct was to grab the ball and go, but Fabio won it and it was a good moment. It's all about being a team player. It was his time to get a chance and he tucked it away," added Nketiah.

Saka was captain in Martin Odegaard's absence and, when he was substituted, he passed the armband to Nketiah, who captained Arsenal for the first time.

Jesus could only applaud in the stands as he

watched Nketiah put in an accomplished display.

Blades come up short again Sheffield United have lost nine of their 10 league matches this season with a goal difference of minus 22 - the worst start by any side to a Premier League season.

United did well to keep Arsenal at bay for the opening half an hour,

but the defence wilted and left gaps open as Mikel Arteta's side grew in confidence.

The Blades had just two shots in the match, neither of which were on target.

Gustavo Hamer tried a spectacular effort from the halfway line but it sailed out for a goal kick as United's lack of attacking threat was laid

bare.

After Nketiah's hattrick, it appeared as if Arsenal were happy with their lot, but two late lapses in concentration proved costly for United.

Norwood gave away a poor penalty and then Tomiyasu was allowed to ghost past the United defence to complete the thrashing. (BBC Sport)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

IPL 2024 auction scheduled for December 19 in Dubai THE IPL player auction ahead of the 2024 season will be held on December 19 in Dubai; it is the first time the auction will be held overseas.

The event will coincide with the second ODI of India’s tour of South Africa, which is scheduled for December 19 in Gqeberha.

The ten IPL teams have until November 15 to submit the lists of players they are retaining and releasing, after which the auction pool will be finalised by early December.

Each team will have a

purse of INR 100 crore (USD 12.02 million approximately) to build their squad for the 2024 season, a INR 5 crore increase from last season’s purse of INR 95 crore.

How much each team has to spend on auction day depends on the value of players they release, in addition to their unspent purse from the 2023 auction.

Punjab Kings have the largest purse at present – INR 12.20 crore (USD 1.47million) – while Mumbai Indians have the smallest at INR 0.05 crore (USD 0.006 million).

Of the remaining teams Sunrisers Hyderabad have INR 6.55 crore (USD 0.79 million); Gujarat Titans and Delhi Capitals both have INR 4.45 crore (USD 0.54 million); Lucknow Super Giants have INR 3.55 crore (USD 0.43 million); Rajasthan Royals have USD 3.35 crore (USD 0.40 million); Royal Challengers Bangalore have INR 1.75 crore (USD 0.21 million); Kolkata Knight Riders have INR 1.65 crore (USD 0.2 million); and defending champions Chennai Super Kings have INR 1.5 crore (USD 0.18

million).

Despite being only a daylong event – compared to the two-day mega auction once every four years – mini auctions have produced some of the most expensive buys, especially in the overseas players category. Ahead of the 2023 season, Sam Curran became the most expensive player in IPL history when he was bought by Punjab for INR 18.5 crore in December last year.

Several prominent overseas players are likely to enter the upcoming auction, including Australian

The ten IPL teams have until November 15 to submit the lists of players they are retaining and releasing fast bowler Mitchell Starc who recently said he was “definitely” heading back to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus. Pat Cummins is also likely to put his name up for bidding, having skipped the IPL last year. (ESPNcricinfo)

Some of the other key players franchises expect to see at the auction are Travis Head, Chris Woakes, Alex Hales, Sam Billings, and Gerald Coetzee. (ESPNcricinfo).

England to play landmark 100th Test versus India in Navi, Mumbai ENGLAND's women will play their landmark 100th Test match at the DY Patil Sports Stadium in Navi, Mumbai.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced the fourday Test will take place from 14-17 December.

It will be the first

England have played 99 Test matches since 1934

Test between the sides in India since November 2005.

Heather Knight's side, who will prepare for the tour with a training camp in Oman, will play India in three T20 internationals at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on 6, 9 and 10 December.

A three-match T20 series between England A and India will also be played at the same ground on 29 November and 1 and 3 December.

After the completion of the series with England, India will play a one-off Test, three ODIs and three T20Is

against Australia.

England in India 2023 First T20I - 6 December (Mumbai) Second T20I - 9 December (Mumbai) Third T20I - 10 December (Mumbai) One-off Test - 1417 December (Navi Mumbai)

NBA: Luka Doncic helps Dallas Mavericks beat Brooklyn Nets Luka Doncic scored 49 points to help the Dallas Mavericks to a 125-120 win against the Brooklyn Nets.

The Slovenian hit four straight three-point shots in the final quarter while Kyrie Irving scored 17 in his first game against the Nets since being traded from Brooklyn in February.

Victor Wembanyama secured his first NBA win as the San Antonio Spurs beat the Houston Rockets 126-122 in overtime.

The 19-year-old rookie, who is 7ft 4in, scored 21 points and 12 rebounds.

Regarded as one of the

game's biggest prospects, Wembanyama was the NBA's top draft pick this year.

The Rockets led by seven points after three quarters, but the French teenager levelled the score at 111 with 20 seconds of regular time remaining then added crucial baskets in overtime.

NBA results for the new season Elsewhere on Friday, Steph Curry's game-high 41 points inspired the Golden State Warriors to a 122-114 victory against the Sacramento Kings.

Fellow guard De'Aaron Fox scored 39 points

for the Kings in their first home game since losing 120-100 to the Warriors in Game 7 of their first-round play-off series last season.

Nikola Jokic led NBA champions the Denver Nuggets to a 108-104 win on the road over the Memphis Grizzlies, contributing 22 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists.

Julius Randle came close to a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists as the New York Knicks held off the Atlanta Hawks to win 126120.

Meanwhile, all five of the Boston Celtics' starters

Luka Doncic is a four-time NBA All-Star scored at least 17 points as they beat Miami Heat in a rematch of the 2023 Eastern Conference finals.

The Chicago Bulls edged the Toronto Raptors 104-103 in overtime, with Alex Caruso bucketing a

three-pointer with two seconds remaining.

Donovan Mitchell's game-high 43 points was not enough for the Cleveland Cavaliers to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder, who won 108-105.

Detroit Pistons claimed their first victory under new coach Monty Williams as they triumphed 111-99 against hosts the Charlotte Hornets.

German brothers Franz and Moritz Wagner scored 23 points and 17 points respectively to help Orlando Magic to a 102-97 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Utah Jazz won 12011 8 a g a i n s t t h e L o s Angeles Clippers in Salt Lake City thanks to a game-winning three-pointer from Jordan Clarkson in the final 30 seconds. (BBC Sport).

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Cricket World Cup 2023: Australia edge past New Zealand in high-scoring thriller

By Ffion Wynne, BBC Sport

Australia overcame a spirited New Zealand to extend their World Cup winning streak to four games in a high-scoring thriller in Dharamsala.

The Black Caps needed 19 to win from the final over to complete a World Cup record chase of 389.

But James Neesham was agonisingly run out for 58 off the penultimate ball and last man Lockie Ferguson could not hit the six needed from the final delivery.

They finished five runs short on 383-9, led by Rachin Ravindra's stunning 116.

The combined tally of 771 runs made it the highest-scoring World Cup game of all time.

Earlier, Travis Head's brutal 109 from 67 balls, in an opening stand of 175 in 19.1 overs with David Warner, helped Australia to their imposing total of 388.

An uncharacteristically sloppy performance in the field saw New Zealand spill four catches, including Head on 70 and 75, amid a chaotic opening bowling display.

The usually consistent seamers Matt Henry and Trent Boult

struggled in the face of Warner and Head's aggressive start, with the pair smashing 118-0 in the 10-over powerplay - an Australian ODI record.

Part-time spinner Glenn Phillips took 3-37 to record the only respectable figures in Australia's total, which included 20 sixes.

Australia have recovered from two successive defeats to start the tournament and are well-placed for a semi-final spot, while New Zealand's hopes are not too severely dented after their strong start of four wins.

Classy Ravindra leads brave New Zealand effort After such a brutal onslaught from Australia's batters, New Zealand left the field looking understandably overwhelmed: some drooping shoulders, wry smiles and tired legs.

But they are a side renowned for their grit and determination and that is personified by 23-year-old Ravindra.

An opening stand of 61 between Devon Conway and Will Young gave him a platform, and he started cautiously in a stand of 96 with Daryl Mitchell, who made 54.

Mitchell's departure handed

Ravindra the reins and he scored freely, targeting straight down the ground, ensuring the daunting run-rate never got too far out of reach with his second century of the tournament.

New Zealand matched Australia at the 40-over mark, reaching 292-5, but Ravindra fell two balls later to damage their hopes.

But Neesham, who famously batted in New Zealand's fateful super over in the 2019 World Cup final, kept accelerating with three fours and three sixes in his knock before Mitchell Starc aided the Black Caps' cause with five wides in the final over.

Marnus Labuschagne earlier stood on the boundary sponge to hand Trent Boult a six - another parallel with that 2019 epic - but fought back to run out a sprawling Neesham and spark joyous Australia celebrations.

Head marks return with sensational century Warner has been in sublime form throughout the tournament, with 413 runs and two centuries, and was buoyed by the return of Head from a broken hand.

His injured hand remained heavily strapped but it certainly did not hinder his scoring, reaching his century from 59

Josh Inglis ran out James Neesham to leave New Zealand needing six runs off the last ball•Oct 28, 2023• ICC/Getty Images balls and whacking seven sixes and 10 fours.

The opening 10 overs were brutal, particularly given New Zealand chose to bowl first.

They are usually meticulous - Boult and Henry start with consistency, Mitchell Santner's spin rattles through the middle overs and they are backed up by immaculately high standards in the field.

But they buckled in the face of balls regularly flying to the boundary - and at one stage Australia's projected score was 600.

It was remarkable that Warner and Head continued their onslaught for almost 20 overs, but the middle order of Mitchell Marsh, Labuschagne and Steve Smith slowed proceedings down as none of them could find any fluency.

But Glenn Maxwell's 41 from 24 balls and Pat Cummins' 14-ball 37 led a revival before the last four wickets fell for just one run as Australia fell just short of 400.

With Head a certainty to remain at the top of the order, Aus-

tralia may reconsider Marsh's place at three, but they are surging towards the semi-finals with a powerhouse batting line-up looking like they are peaking at the perfect time.

'We'll enjoy this one' - what they said Australia captain Pat Cummins: "That was awesome. A fantastic game, they kept coming at us.

"That was a good wicket. In patches we bowled really well, sometimes we gave too much width away. Some really good partnerships, it was tough to get into them.

"We'll enjoy this one and get stuck in on the back end."

New Zealand captain Tom Latham: "It was a fantastic game of cricket. There were ebbs and flows throughout the 100 overs.

Obviously to get so close hurts.

It was a fantastic game.

"You need to play the perfect game when you are chasing near 400. They put us off to a fantastic start and it was a fantastic knock from Rachin [Ravindra] - one of the better ones you'll see in a chase.

"It was pretty special to get close. I'm proud of the guys."(BBC Sport)

Cricket World Cup 2023: ‘Underestimated Australia are becoming dangerous prospect’

By Ffion WynneBBC Sport FEW gave Pat Cummins' side much consideration when discussing the World Cup's potential winners in the build-up, with focus mainly on hosts India and reigning champions England.

Heavy defeats to India and South Africa to start their campaign added to the uncertainty.

But as the knockout stage approaches, England are crumbling as Australia soar.

"They're really starting to take shape," former Australia captain Aaron Finch told BBC Sport after the tense five-run victory over New Zealand saw them win their fourth successive game and close in on a semi-final spot.

"It is the confidence that the players have in their own game and each other's game.

"And when you look at the players not in the Australia XI at the minute there's some serious power in Mar-

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green cus Stoinis and Cameron Green who could potentially come back into that middle order."

Australia had a tough start with those back-toback losses but have since thrashed Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the Netherlands before Saturday's much closer encounter.

Three dominant wins, and with confidence to take from winning a last-over thriller, sees them peaking

just at the right time.

Opener David Warner has two centuries to his name, Travis Head scored a 59-ball century in his first game back from a broken hand, and Glenn Maxwell hit the World Cup's fastest century against the Netherlands.

And from a bowling point of view, leg-spinner Adam Zampa is the leading wicker-taker in the tournament, while seamers Josh Hazlewood and Cummins

are taking regular wickets and off-spinner Maxwell is proving his worth as a parttime option.

But the one concern that could be exploited is their middle order.

Warner and Head exploded against the Black Caps, scoring 118 in 10 overs, but despite reaching 200-1, the struggles of Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne saw the innings stall.

Marsh formed a solid opening partnership with Warner before Head's return but looked uncertain at three, while Labuschagne and Smith scratched their way to 18 each.

"The ability for the middle order to come together and for that to click is just the missing link at the moment," said Finch.

"There's been a couple of really big platforms for Australia to launch a really big assault towards the back half of innings and they just

haven't quite got it right.

"They need a bit of cohesion, they seem a little disjointed at times in the middle.

"Something around 310/320 probably won't cut it against good sides on very good wickets."

Josh Inglis and Cummins led Australia's revival at the death against New Zealand but it is a recurring theme.

Against Pakistan, 245-0 became 367-9, only Maxwell capitalised against the Netherlands and 175-0 became 292-5 against New Zealand.

As the tournament progresses the pitches in India might get slower and more difficult for batting, meaning their approach to bludgeoning in the powerplay may come unstuck - but that could also suit the likes of Smith and Labuschagne, those happier to craft an innings over time.

Finch adds that Australia's poor start may have

actually benefitted them: getting the two tough games out of the way early before accelerating.

"It's looking likely India will go through undefeated in the group stage, so you start off with that game and you're automatically on the back foot.

"But they kept that in perspective - they know they didn't play their best cricket.

"They can challenge India, but the top four - which at the moment looks most likely look like South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and India - on their day everyone can beat each other and that's the beauty of it."

Australia have a week until their next game against England on Saturday 4 November.

The break could provide valuable rest or disrupt their momentum, but regardless - write them off at your peril. (BBC Sport)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

Tough times for English-speaking CFU teams in Road to W Gold Cup

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC )– English-speaking Caribbean Football Union teams had a rough time when the Concacaf Road to W Gold Cup continued on Friday.

Hosts St Vincent & the Grenadines failed to defend the homestead when the Dominican Republic, led by a hat-trick from Jazmin Jackson and a brace from Kathrynn González, landed their second win of the campaign 8-0 at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex.

Trinidad & Tobago, also playing on home soil, failed to respond after a second half strike from Jillienne Aguilleira and Puerto Rico came away with a 2-1 win at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, while Adrienne Forde notched an equaliser for hosts Barbados and they drew 1-1 with Bermuda at the Wildey Turf.

IN KINGSTOWN, ST VINCENT: Jackson and González enabled the Dominican Republic

to move into second place behind the Bermudians in Group C of League B after their big win with a higher goal differential.

After Vanessa Kara gave the DR the lead in the first minute, Jackson scored twice in the first half, González added her two, and Winibian Peralta added another in between to put the visitors ahead 6-0 at half-time.

Kara lobbed a perfect ball under the top post, Jackson scored her first in the ninth minute after her elusive footwork inside the box ended with a right-footed shot just inside the left post, and González put away a loose ball in the 17th minute.

Peralta converted a penalty in the 23rd minute after she was brought down in the box, González scored from long distance in the 33rd minute, and Jackson connected with a header in the 40th minute on a cross from Lucia Marte.

SVG tried to respond in between, but their finishing let

them down, and the one-way traffic continued in the second half when Jackson headed another goal on a long cross from Brianne Reed in the 58th minute, and Dahien Cabrera finished off a nice build-up with a strike in the 87th minute.

Idelys Vázquez of Puerto Rico (4) competes for the ball with Zoe Maxwell of hosts Trinidad & Tobago (9) during their Group A of League A match in the Concacaf Road to W Gold Cup match on Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. (Concacaf) IN PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Aguilleira gave the Puerto Ricans their first win of the campaign and moved them into second place in Group A of League A with three points from two matches, while T&T remain without a point after two matches.

Aguilleira pounced on a loose ball, made a move past a defender, and blasted a left-foot-

ed shot into net five minutes after T&T had equalised after trailing 0-1 at half-time.

From there, the Puerto Rico defence did their job the rest of the way in keeping T&T from grabbing a second equaliser.

The first half-hour of the contest was fairly even before Skylynn Rodriguez fired in a right-footed shot to break the deadlock after Juelle Love made a run to the end line and cut the ball back to her.

T&T drew level four minutes into the second half when Alexcia Ali gathered a pass on the right wing and fired in from the narrowest of angles.

IN WILDEY, BARBADOS: The Bermudians remained narrowly first in Group C of League B after the Barbadians held them to a draw.

Forde grabbed the equaliser for the hosts from a corner kick in the 47th minute, and both teams defended hard the rest of the way for the match to end in

Idelys Vázquez of Puerto Rico (4) competes for the ball with Zoe Maxwell of hosts, Trinidad & Tobago (9), during their Group A of League A match in the Concacaf Road to W Gold Cup match on Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain (Concacaf) a stalemate.

Aaliyah Nolan got the opening goal of the contest in the 24th minute with a drive

through the middle of the field and a left-footed shot to the back of the net.

Buxton United, Police winners in latest KFC Elite League matches

BUXTON United FC maintained their winning ways while Police FC bounced back into contention when the KFC Elite League Cup, organised by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) continued Friday evening at the Eve Leary ground.

Tyreel Cummings scored in the 17th minute to secure a 1-0 win for Buxton United against Fruta Conquerors FC, their second win in the tournament. The East Coast side were victorious

in their opening match against Santos FC 2-1 with Cummings scoring one of the goals and they now lead Group A with six points from two matches.

The Guyana Defence Force FC hold second position with 3 points from one fixture.

Fruta Conquerors and Milerock are tied on 1 point each while Santos is yet to secure a point.

In the second game of the double-header, Police FC stamped their authority against

Buxton United starting 11

Ann’s Grove FC winning 2-0.

Pernell Schultz sent the cops into the lead in the 4th minute from a penalty kick while Dorwin George sealed the issue in the 81st minute with a timely strike.

Police were beaten 1-3 by Den Amstel FC in their opening encounter. Western Tigers lead Group B with 3 points from one game, while Police, Ann’s Grove and Den Amstel are locked on 3 points each from two matches. Victoria

Kings are in the cellar position without a point.

The tournament continues today with another double-header at Eve Leary and not Camp Ayanganna as was previously mentioned.

Santos will be in action again against Milerock in the opening match at 18:00 hrs while the feature game will see Western Tigers looking to advance their points tally when they face Victoria Kings at 20:00 hours

Mohammed trumps Auguste to lead Red Force to another Super 50 win PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – A resolute, unbeaten 70 from the reliable Jason Mohammed overshadowed a runa-ball, 76 not out and steered hosts Trinidad & Tobago Red Force to a four-wicket win against West Indies Academy in the West Indies Super50 Cup on Saturday in Trinidad.

Jason Mohammed batted resolutely for 70 not out to guide T&T Red Force to a four-wicket win against West Indies Academy in the West Indies Super50 Cup on Saturday in Trinidad.

(CWI Media) Batting at five, Mohammed struck only seven fours in his 86-ball innings, and Red Force successfully chased 264 at the historic Queen’s Park Oval to clinch their fourth win in five matches in the eight-team tournament to cement their place at the top of the standings.

The 37-year-old, who once led West Indies in four One-day

internationals, shared 50 for the sixth wicket with Akeal Hosein, and he put on an unbroken 72 with Terrance Hinds that carried Red Force over the finish line.

Mohammed, a former Red Force captain, formalised the result when he pulled pacer Nyeem Young, the Academy captain, to deep mid-wicket for four with eight balls remaining to give the home team four wins on the trot after their first match was rained out.

Opener Tion Webster supported with 45, Hosein made 31, Hinds was not out on 23, and discarded West Indies batsman Darren Bravo, the Red Force captain, added 21 to prop up the successful run chase.

Auguste, the West Indies Under-19 captain to the 2022 ICC Youth World Cup in the Caribbean, batted at six, and he struck six fours and three sixes from 63 balls and shared three

Jason Mohammed batted resolutely for 70 not out to guide T&T Red Force to a four-wicket win against West Indies Academy in the West Indies Super50 Cup on Saturday in Trinidad (CWI Media)

significant stands that were the rock upon which the Academy built their total of 263 for eight after they decided to bat.

The Academy struggled through the first Power Play to reach 47 without loss, but their openers, left-hander Matthew Nandu and Kimani Melius, the West Indies Under-19 captain to the 2020 ICC Youth World Cup in South Africa, shared 59 for the first wicket before they stumbled to 106 for four at the halfway stage of their innings.

Left-hander Auguste shared 49 with Kevin Wickham for the fifth wicket, before he put on successive 51-run stands with Young for the sixth wicket, and another Barbadian all-rounder Matthew Forde for seventh wicket to beef up their side’s total.

Nandu scored 40, Wickham made 31, Melius got 29, Forde gathered 28, and Leonardo Ju-

lien added 22 to lead the Academy batting.

Red Force then ended the first Power Play on 60 for one to secure a batting bonus point after opener Kjorn Ottley was caught at short third man off pacer Matthew Forde in the fifth over.

Webster dominated a 50run, second-wicket stand with West Indies Test wicketkeeper-batsman Joshua Da Silva, but left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop and part-time leg-spinner Kevin Wickham removed them respectively, before the home team reached 100.

Red Force were 119 for four after Wickham got Bravo caught behind in the 25th over, and they were 142 for five when part-time off-spinner Matthew Nandu got Mark Deyal caught at short extra cover for 13 in the 30th over.

Hosein came to the crease

and was a stable ally for Mohammed, and they got Red Force back on course for victory before pacer Kelvin Pitman got him caught at deep mid-wicket in the 39th over before the home team had past 200.

Hinds joined Mohammed and they carried Red Force past 200, and they entered the final Power Play with their side needing 58 more to win and held their nerve to complete the job.

The tournament continues with a double-header today when Barbados Pride face Guyana Harpy Eagles at 9 a.m. at the Frank Worrell Field on the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies, and the winless pair of Jamaica Scorpions, last year’s champions, and Windward Islands Volcanoes clash at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in the south Trinidad district of Tarouba.

31

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

GCA’s Pepsi 50-over first Division cricket

Dindyal’s classy ton gives GCC win over DCC - Pestano’s 157 leads Everest to win over TSC

ON a bright and sunny day at the Demerara Cricket Club ground (DCC), the Pepsi 50 overs first division game between the host and GCC was reduced to 32 overs due to late pitch preparation with GCC winning by eight wickets.

West Indies U-19 batter, Mavindra Dindyal, scored 118 and featured in a 173-run stand with Aryan Persaud, who made 50 to take GCC to 180-2, replying to DCC’s 179 all out in their allotted 32 overs.

When the game began, DCC lost the left-handed Brandon Jaikarran (16) with a four and a six when he was LBW to left-arm spinner Aryan Persaud at 33-1.

Sachin Singh (23) and Raymond Perez, who hit five fours and four sixes in 82 took the score to 77 before Singh pulled a short ball

Clinton Pestano smashed a century at Everest from Renaldo Ali-Mohamed to deep mid-wicket after hitting three fours and a six from 16 balls.

Ali-Mohamed then had Jonathan Vanlange (0) LBW when he seemed to get an edge without addition to the score as Perez continued to bat well.

Chris Barnwell, one of the players who dominate local cricket, had a rare failure when, after hitting a six and a four in his 16, he drilled left-arm spinner Devon Lord to cover at 104-4.

However, nobody stayed with Perez who hit pacer Carlos LaRose to long-on in the final over to bat from start to finish.

LaRose had 3-37, Lord took 3-10 and Ali-Mohamed 2-37 for GCC who lost Joshua Wade (1) at 6-1.

Wade’s demise made way for a brutal onslaught on the fast outfield and small boundaries as the fair sized gathering, which included former Guyana opener, Nolan McKenzie, home for the funeral of his mom tomorrow, was treated to boundaries galore as Dindyal cut lose as he returned to form.

Persaud finished un-

Batter Mavindra Dindyal spearheaded GCC to victory with an innings of 11 beaten on 50 while Dindyal fell to Dexter George, with victory one run away, for a well-compiled 111.

At Everest, Transport, led by Akeem Redman’s 50,

Charwayne McPherson’s 40 and 37 from Shilow Adams, reached 216 all out as Junior Sinclair (4-36) and left-arm spinner Javed Rasheed (310) were the main wicket takers for Everest who had

earlier made 364.

Clinton Pestano smashed an explosive 157 from 76 balls with 12 fours and 14 sixes while Richie Looknauth scored 55 as Dave Mohabir had 5-55.

teams who have done this before. Nobody gave England a chance when they played us [in the semi-finals] and they showed who they are, and then New Zealand today.

neither player deserved to be sent off.

"He [Kolisi] put his head into someone's jaw and stayed on the field," Johnson told BBC Radio 5 Live. "I would have not sent either of them off - they were both accidents.

"One captain has been off the field for 50 minutes and one hasn't."

New Zealand 11-12 South Africa: Siya Kolisi says World Cup final win will unite country

SOUTH Africa captain Siya Kolisi says the country will be united by his team's victory against New Zealand in the World Cup final in Paris.

The Springboks retained the trophy with a 12-11 win, four years after their triumph in Japan.

Kolisi becomes the second captain to retain the trophy after Richie McCaw's All Blacks won in 2011 and 2015.

"People not from South Africa don't understand what it means for our country," Kolisi told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"It is not just about the game. Our country goes through such a lot. We are just grateful that we can be here. I want to tell the people of South Africa 'thank you so much'.

"This team just shows what you can do. As soon as we work together, all is possible, no matter in what sphere.

"In the field or in offices, it shows what we can do. I am

Siya Kolisi has now twice led South Africa to World Cup glory grateful for this team. I am so proud of it."

'An amazing achievement' - reaction as South Africa win World Cup Speaking to ITV, Kolisi - South Africa's first black captain - added: "There is so much going wrong in our country - we are the last line of defence. So many people are helpless and there is so much division, but we show there is hope.

"Look what the sport

did in 1995. Without that, I wouldn't be here. There were people before that who fought for people that look like me to be in the jersey."

Kolisi only returned to the Springbok side during their World Cup warm-up campaign in August after recovering from surgery on his partially torn anterior cruciate ligament.

He played an influential role in leading the defending champions to back-to-back

finals, where they met old foes New Zealand in a repeat of the 1995 showpiece.

The All Blacks lost captain Sam Cane to an upgraded red card after he was adjudged to have made direct contact with the head of Jesse Kriel in a tackle, before Kolisi was also sent to the sin-bin for a high challenge on Ardie Savea.

Unlike his opposite number, Kolisi returned to the field as he was deemed to have mitigation, as the resilient Boks held out in the final stages.

"We knew New Zealand would come more after the red card. That is why they have been so successful over the years and then obviously my moment of naughtiness cost us with a yellow card.

"In the last World Cup we were kind of hoping to get the name of the Springboks back, but now people were expecting us to do it.

"We have played against

"I'm really proud of what the boys have done."

Former England captain Martin Johnson, who won the World Cup in 2003, said

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32

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 29, 2023

South Africa beat New Zealand by a point to win record fourth Rugby World Cup title SOUTH Africa clinched a record fourth Rugby World Cup title by doing just enough to deny 14-man New Zealand and retain their crown in a helter-skelter final in Paris.

The Springboks seemed to have control when, with Handre Pollard's dead-eyed goalkicking having already given them a 9-3 lead, Sam Cane caught Jesse Kriel high in the 27th minute.

The New Zealand captain was shown a red card on review and another Pollard penalty left the All Blacks a man down, nine points behind and in deep trouble.

But New Zealand rallied, rode their luck and dragged themselves back into the game. Richie Mo'unga kicked a penalty before the break and Beauden Barrett scooped up a loose ball and slid in after the interval to cut South Africa's lead to 12-11.

Both teams pushed for a decisive score in an enthralling, lactic-drenched final quarter, but neither found one, with Jordie Barrett missing a long-range 73rd-minute penalty and the Springboks clinging on for a third successive one-point victory in the knockout stages.

Captain Siya Kolisi clutched his head in disbelief as he danced off the bench and towards his team-mates on the final whistle. His side are the first team to win the tournament back-to-back away from home - a statistic coach Jacques Nienaber underlined in the build-up and are now the undeniable dominant force in World Cup history.

Their latest victory means the Springboks have won half of the eight tournaments they have taken part in. South Africa were absent from the first two editions because of the sporting exile imposed by the rest of the world in reac-

tion to the country's apartheid government.

In that era, the Springboks were hated by many black South Africans. But under the leadership of Kolisi - the team's first black Test captain - they have won backing from across the spectrum of the Rainbow Nation.

Ian Foster's four-year

perate attempt to remove South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonami from a breakdown took both players out of the game - one temporarily, one permanently.

On review, Frizell was let off with a yellow for an ugly-looking neck roll clear-out, while the injured Nbonambi, the Springboks'

Damian de Allende charged at each other with wild abandon in midfield.

Pollard and Mo'unga traded penalties as the Springboks kept clear at 9-3 up.

But New Zealand, whose indiscipline cost them dear during a warm-up defeat against the Boks at Twick-

Pollard landed his kick to dig New Zealand's hole a little deeper and it seemed, with 34 minutes gone and the All Blacks 12-3 adrift, as though the destiny of the contest and the cup might already be decided.

But the All Blacks raged against their apparent destiny. Rieko Ioane

South Africa flanker and captain Siya Kolisi lifts the Webb Ellis Cup as his teammates celebrate winning Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand in Saint-Denis Photo: AFP) reign as New Zealand head coach ends within a whisker of the ultimate prize, having come under pressure in the build-up when his team dipped below their usual high historical standards.

Springboks hang tough in nail-biter once again With the Stade de France still ringing to the sound of a full-throttle haka, the two teams tore into each other from the off.

Eben Etzebeth levelled Mo'unga to cheers and groans before Shannon Frizell's des-

only specialist hooker, was forced out of the game.

Deon Fourie, a converted flanker, came on to replace Nbonambi and, with the man advantage, his side made hay.

Pollard, whose accuracy off the tee helped secure him a starting role, nailed two penalties during the powerplay.

The physicality never dropped. The breakdown was a bunfight. The line-out was a lottery of limbs. The gainline was cratered with big hits. Jordie Barrett and

enham in August, strayed over the line of legality once again.

In the midst of some heavy traffic, Cane flew into a collision with Kriel. It was over-eager rather than malicious, but his shoulder to the side of the South Africa centre's head, with no effort to dip, made a red card the likely outcome on review.

Referee Wayne Barnes delivered the news as Pollard lined up another penalty, following good work from Steven Kitshoff.

was scragged just short as they chanced their arm on a penalty advantage before Mo'unga slotted a kick shortly after to take his side down the tunnel 12-6 down and still, in theory, in touch.

T h e i r u n d e r- s t a ff e d defence, caught between shoring up the scrum and covering the threat of South Africa's pacy wings, was stretched thin though.

Kolisi, bearing down on the line after Beauden Barrett dropped a high ball in his lap, should have put Kri-

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el in for a try inside a minute of the restart. Kurt-Lee Arendse came within inches of a score as he chased a seemingly lost cause.

Springboks skipper Kolisi became the third player to go to the sin-bin - his hit on Savea slipping high - and New Zealand, briefly back level in terms of personnel, crowbarred the game back open.

Aaron Smith had already seen a try chalked off for an earlier knock-on when Jordie Barrett slung an enormous pass wide to Mark Telea.

The wing stepped, darted and dropped the ball as he was tackled just short of the line. Crucially it was judged to have gone backwards and Beauden Barrett gathered up and slid over.

Mo'unga's conversion hung wide to leave South Africa in front, but only by a point at 12-11 with 20 minutes remaining.

New Zealand flung everything they had at the Boks, whose defence strained but stayed intact.

The All Blacks' clearest chance came when South Africa wing Cheslin Kolbe knocked the ball out of the air as he rushed in to tackle a galloping Anton Lienert-Brown.

Kolbe was shown yellow for a deliberate knock-on and Jordie Barrett called for the tee. But the All Black centre's kick - from a tricky angle just inside the Bok half - fell wide and, try as they might, his side could not make the most of another spell back at 14-men apiece for the remainder of the game.

After similarly narrow victories over France and England, South Africa have walked the hardest, narrowest route to the trophy.

| SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2023