Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_02_23_2022

Happy

WEDNESDAY 23rd February, 2022

Republic Anniversary!

No.106643

Embrace the train of progress 03 PAGE

–– President Ali urges in Republic Day Message to the nation

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the nation at the flag-raising ceremony to mark Guyana’s 52nd anniversary as a Republic, at the Public Buildings, Georgetown.

The fireworks to mark the occasion went off at midnight (Office of the President photos)

Sol commits to investing US$50 million in Guyana over five years 09 PAGE

See Inside

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

‘We are better together as one people’ – Minister Benn says at Region Five flag-raising ceremony

Story and photographs

by Rabindra Rooplall UNITY in diversity was the message promoted at the 52nd Republic Anniversary Flag-Raising Ceremony held at the Region Five Regional Democratic Council, Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice on Tuesday, where Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, gave the feature address.

“We want to have a situation where we can respect each other more and where we can love each other more.

We have gone to the same schools, we look after each other’s children, we come from the same communities and in spite of the quarrels now and again we know that we are better together as Guyanese people and that is what we want for the development of our country,” he told the gathering.

Within this century, he

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn (second from left) with regional officials observing the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead

said a new vision of being Guyanese should evolve and this should be handed over to the children and the next generation who should all benefit from a better life.

“We have been given a better life than our parents I believe and we want to assure that we can give our children and the next generation of Guyanese a better life and we can only do this if we accept diversity in our institutions, if we accept and understand and interpret our lives and the way we live together as being of benefit for all of us and for the future and learn to love each other and [be] more empathetic in our relations amongst each other,” Minister Benn emphasised.

Turning his attention to the development of communities in Region Five, Minister Benn commended the regional officials for the See page 4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Embrace the train of progress

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Address of His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, on the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd Republic Anniversary

FIFTYY-two years ago, our journey as a Republic began. Along the way, there have been many successes, challenges and threats.

Notwithstanding this, and, importantly, as a people, we were resilient, focused and resolute in our desire for a democratic, free, peaceful and prosperous Guyana.

As a people, we have endured many challenges; some self-inflicted, some imported, and some manufactured for a “self-agenda”.

Tonight, I have decided to directly address what is required from each of us as Guyanese to advance this country and create the ‘One Guyana’.

By now, we are all aware of the potential that exists; we all recognise what is needed to ensure that that potential is transferred into results that would bring a better life for every Guyanese.

From the inception, let me be clear, I and my Government are supportive of constructive criticism.

To advance our ‘One Guyana’, as a society, we must have healthy debate, exchange of views and critical examination of policies, programmes, initiatives and plans.

However, these discussions must not be based on selfish agenda, biasness, perception, propaganda, and feelings. Instead, they must be firmly rooted in facts, and a pragmatic understanding of what is required in this rapidly changing Guyana.

In this, our 52nd year of our Republic, I wish to humbly examine 10 areas in which we, as a people, must understand our role, responsibility, and function.

We must address these 10 things at a personal level, and, ultimately, at a country level if we are to pursue the right blend of character and traits that will make us a successful people.

1. ATTITUDE - What is the attitude required to be successful?

- Is it a complaining, negative one?

- Where does such an attitude take us, and - What do we hope to achieve with such an attitude?

If, as ‘One Guyana’, we believe in the potential that exists, then we need to exhibit a positive attitude and a positive outlook.

The chronic naysayers will find fault in everything we do. With a positive mindset, however, we will work to strengthen every decision and policy to deliver the best possible outcome for all.

Attitude set in misrepresentation, political mischief and destruction will not take us forward.

The rapid advancement of Guyana requires us to change the way we think, act, and behave.

The scale of development dictates that our thought process must now address more complex and dynamic issues. For instance, we have not only just begun thinking of how to become energy secure; the advances we made have now positioned Guyana in a place where we can contribute to the energy security of an entire corridor.

Not only should we be thinking about how to catalyse development in Guyana; we should be thinking about how to advance new growth poles and centres, ensuring that every region benefits from the prosperity that is coming.

To accomplish this requires a completely different attitude.

The way we view safety, standards and work ethics must all be addressed in creating the right attitude for a successful future.

2. CHARACTER - What makes us Guyanese?

- How are we viewed as Guyanese workers, or as a Guyanese businessperson?

Our culture is only one component of who we are as Guyanese. If I am to ask every individual present, “What makes you Guyanese,” I assure you we will have varying responses from each of you.

We must, therefore, settle on what makes us uniquely Guyanese. This, ultimately, determines the character of Guyana.

We, the people, are the ones who give life to this country Guyana; if we want the character of Guyana to be positive, then we must examine our character as a people.

We must be known as a people with fundamental principles, and defenders of universal values like freedom, democracy and rule of law, equity and fairness.

Our resilience taught us many lessons; we must learn from those experiences in ensuring that we chart a course that will bring prosperity to all in our ‘One Guyana’.

Our character as a people must never allow our country to be among those where democracy and freedom are illusions.

These attributes which we fought so strongly for must be protected by the people.

You, the people of Guyana, are the shield against injustice, disharmony, bitterness and mischievous chaos.

Each of us, as individuals, must pledge that, regardless of our religious and political persuasions, these principles and character that make us Guyanese WILL NEVER be sacrificed.

3. NARRATIVE As a country and as a people, we must write our own narrative for the future, however, that future must be mindful of the experiences of others, and be flexible enough, although homegrown, to be globally acceptable.

For this, the support of the regional and global communities is essential.

What do the habitual naysayers gain by portraying a continuously negative narrative?

On the one hand, we want sustainability and cheaper energy, and on the other hand, the naysayers throw every obstacle at achieving this.

On the one hand, we want a profitable and diversified sugar sector, where our workers are transformed into skilled and semi-skilled functionaries, and on the other hand, the naysayers “gripe” at every attempt at partnership.

Your Government has outlined a clear and ambitious vision for our country that I need not repeat. This vision has been clearly articulated in our Manifesto, and in our free and democratic society, it is open for constructive debate.

Recall that it is on this vision that the Government was given the mandate to advance the cause of every Guyanese.

As your President, this is the narrative on which we are building our prosperous Guyana.

There is absolutely no need to presuppose or guess; the vision is clearly articulated.

4. VALUES AND BELIEF SYSTEM While we are a multicultural and multi-religious society, there are some common values in our belief system that we must inculcate if we are to build a stronger Guyana that will bring prosperity for all. i.We must celebrate each other’s accomplishments; ii.We must be open and transparent in the way we relate to each other; iii.We cannot love God and hate each other;, iv. We cannot love Guyana, or be part of the ‘One Guyana’ family by sowing seeds of division and divisiveness.

We must value education, health, justice, freedom, equality and respect by ensuring equitable access, fairness and investment that will allow all our people to benefit. v.AND our love for each other must be built on a foundation of respect, real decency, and dignity.

Those who do not share these values would see racism, divisiveness, and hate as tools to be used for their own selfish gains.

We must not fall prey to those pursuing this path; we have had 52 years of experience as a Republic to understand the consequences of such a visionless and destructive path.

5. OBJECTIVITY Being objective is being responsible! Objectivity cannot be based on unfounded perceptions, wild accusations, personal vendetta, and social or political alignment.

It must be based on clarity of thought.

Objectivity requires critical analysis, and not

simplistic propagandist theorising to achieve a self-serving outcome.

Objectivity cannot be blindfolding yourself to reality.

Objectivity is a key ingredient of a functional democracy; it requires honesty, integrity, fairness and frankness.

Anything short of these can be classified as self-opinionated, self-righteous and plain selfish.

This cannot be part of the equation in taking our country forward.

6. REALISTIC We must be realistic about what we can and cannot do. We must also be realistic in our expectations; we must understand the environment in which we operate.

Our continued experiences with ‘COVID’, the recent floods, and supply chain issues are fresh examples of how expectations must be tamed against realities.

In being realistic, we must be humble to accept help in areas where we require help.

Being realistic is being humble enough to say “I do not know,” and reach for answers where they do exist.

It is for this reason our local-content legislation was developed with a realistic understanding of where we are as a country.

Being realistic is also understanding that the commitments we made in the Manifesto are to be achieved within five years, and I assure every Guyanese, those commitments we made will be honoured and delivered.

7. ACHIEVABLE TARGETS Achievable targets cannot be US$750m divided by 750,000 citizens being equal to US$1M per citizen.

Not only is this mathematically incorrect; it is not realistic or achievable, much less sustainable.

We have, therefore, set ourselves targets that are not only achievable, but are transformative in nature, namely: Cutting the cost of electricity by 50%, 50,000 house lots, 50,000 new jobs, $40,000 old-age pensions, $50,000 “Because We Care” grant; 20,000 Online scholarships.

These are all achievable targets! We are on track!

For these targets to be realised, we must invest in the social and economic transformation of our country.

These investments include: · Energy sustainability, through the gas-to-energy and hydropower projects, · New shore-base facilities, · New Demerara Harbour Bridge, · Major new highways, · New farm-to-market access roads, · Support to the private sector in hotel and other tourism investments, · Expanded mining, · Forestry, · Food production, · Building the knowledge industry and · Investments in education, and healthcare with the maternal/children specialty hospital and six regional hospitals.

The targets we set ourselves must position Guyana as a strong global and regional player.

Our strengths must be diversified, and not be dependent on our natural resources.

We are, therefore, building an economy that will boast world-class eco-tourism, worldclass urban centres, world-class agriculture, and food production using technology, world-class health and educational services, and world-class environmental diversity and ecological services whilst transitioning into new manufacturing, agro-processing and industrial opportunities, along with the development of a hemp industry and its numerous spinoffs.

8. GOVERNANCE SYSTEM To support all of this, our governance system must be efficient, reliable, trustworthy, accountable, simple, responsive and flexible to the global environment in which we operate.

These elements must be built on a modern constitution that must be developed from the people; a process that is ongoing.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali Our laws being reflective of the direction and development trajectory of the country.

The legislative and judicial arms of Government are modernising and organising to meet the new demands of the future.

9. COUNTRY POSITIONING We, as a people, must understand what our country has to offer, and where it will be positioned in the future.

We have: · 19.5 gigatons of carbon, worth, conservatively, US$195B · Our forestry sector has an estimated value of US$500B · The potential value of our gold reserves is approximately US$35B · Our total bauxite reserves has a potential value close to US$1B. · Our quarrying reserves are valued at approximately US$1B. · Our silica sand reserves are valued conservatively at G$37.5B. · Our freshwater capacity is estimated at G$4B per annum.

These characteristics of our country position us to be among the best in food production, aquaculture, eco-tourism, environmental services, forestry mining, and energy among many other areas.

The world has now started to realise this.

It is our collective effort that will position us among the best globally in these and other sectors.

10. OUR PEOPLE You, the people, are our greatest asset; this is the asset that must be harnessed efficiently to enhance productivity, stimulate creativity, and overcome mediocrity.

It is for this reason that we are investing heavily in education, training and development, and institutional strengthening.

It is we, as a people, who must change our attitude, culture and values towards the environment, society and towards each other that will ultimately determine our collective successful Guyana.

This is not the time in our history to sit back and watch the journey unfold: This is our time to embrace the train of progress; this is our time to embrace the demand our country make of us; this is our time to be positive; this is our time to remove negativity; this is our time to advance the future of ‘One Guyana’.

As we celebrate our 52nd Anniversary, we must ponder on these points. And, as your humble servant, I intend to do the same, as together we build the One Guyana we desire.

Happy Republic Day! God bless you all!

Thank you.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

‘We are better together ...

From page 2 roll out of tender for capital infrastructure projects for the region while noting that the region has received a 13 per cent increase in monies for developmental projects.

Benn said government is interested in all projects, including those rolled over, being completed this year. Some 23 projects are currently advertised in the newspapers for regional development.

EXCITING TIMES “We are at extremely exciting times in Guyana in terms of its development, we have had an international oil and gas conference that was successfully held.

You will note that we have had people from all over the world come to Guyana in respect of the great discoveries in the natural resource

development,” he told the Region Five gathering.

The minister also stressed that government wants everyone to expose themselves to training and all opportunities available in Guyana since the administration’s Local Content Policy sets the benchmark for the participation of Guyanese human resource and businesses in the oil and gas sector.

Meanwhile, another Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel has entered Guyana’s waters while CGX has made another oil discovery which speaks to the opportunities that will be available for the development and training of youths to take on the jobs that will boom with the oil and gas industry.

“We have to encourage our artisans, our workers, our young people, our people coming out of high schools to take cognisance of the

opportunities for technical development, for professional development related to the oil and gas sector, particularly in Berbice,” he posited.

He noted that CGX has commenced building a new port in the Berbice River but government plans to invest heavily in agriculture and the services industry to ensure rapid transformation.

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GET INVOLVED “Even if you do not work in the oil and gas sector particularly, they require services, they require things to eat, they require things to do, they require welders with high skills, so we want you to encourage the young people to get involved in technical education and professional education in this very exciting time in our history,” the Home Affairs Minister

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn on the podium, flanked by regional officials, takes the salute from law enforcement ranks in a march-past in front of the RDC compound said.

Additionally, he explained that persons are arriving into Guyana from all over the world to do works in which Guyanese are capable of performing.

“Skilled workers, skilled divers, skilled craftsmen, persons who could do drill-

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ing, persons who can operate vessels in a safe practicable way, we need those people to take up these jobs and we do not have to wait for people from other places to take it, or to come to Guyana and do these jobs,” he emphasised.

He added that the Local Content Policies are crafted to provide the spaces for

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Guyanese businesses and all young people to participate fully in the oil and gas development.

Also in attendance at the event were Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal; Regional Executive Officer, Genevieve Blackman, councillors and other officials of the region.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Schlumberger donates 30 laptops to Houston Secondary

OIL services provider, Schlumberger, on Tuesday, donated 30 laptop computers to teachers at the Houston Secondary as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Present at a simple ceremony held at the school were Head teacher, Kevin Williamson; Managing Director of Schlumberger GTC, Ernesto Cuadros; Chief Education Officer, Dr. Marcel Hutson; Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton and Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat.

Speaking at the event, Cuadros noted the company’s commitment to its CSR programme, particularly in the communities in which it operates.

“Our goal is to partner with customers in order to create a stable operating environment in which society, communities and energy industry can prosper,” Cuadros commented.

He added: “Increasing supplier capacity and supporting sustainability projects are aligned to key drivers such as education, safety, health and environment. Our donation today is the first one for 2022, and is an investment in the workforce of tomorrow and the next generation of professionals in the country.”

Cuadros noted that for this year, about 75 per cent of the company’s community investment will be spent on programmes that address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Four, which speaks to inclusive and equitable quality education that promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all.

“You will soon hear about our education initiative and outreach programmes that reflect our core values,” Cuadros said.

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Managing Director of Schlumberger GTC, Ernesto Cuadros hands over one of the 30 laptops to Houston Secondary Headteacher, Kevin Williamson. Looking on are teachers and Chief Education Officer, Dr. Marcel Hutson (left of Williamson) and Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton (right of Cuadros) Schlumberger, a renowned Fortune 500 company, is the world’s leading provider of technology and digital solutions for the oil and gas industry.

In 2017, the company made a decision to invest significantly and establish a long-term footprint in Guyana. In 2021, the US company had designated Guyana as the location for its regional base, with the construction of a modern facility Dr. Hutson thanked the company for the kind gesture, noting that it will go a far way in contributing to the development of the school and its student.

The school has 548 students and 38 teachers. Headteacher of the school, Williamson, shared how he decided to reach out to the companies in the community to render some assistance to the teachers, who would have been having a difficult time teaching ‘virtu-

al’ due to lack of devices.

A lot of virtual teaching has been going on over the past few years due to school closures that were brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During the pandemic teachers were struggling

to teach on their phones and I recognised that there were a number of challenges that we would have faced using cell phone to teach; so, as a result, we would have reached out to the oil and gas companies [in the

community],” Williamson explained.

With a programme that focuses on giving back in the area of development, Schlumberger was happy to respond to the request and furnished the teachers with the devices.

“I would have proposed to them how we plan on integrating it into our system and how we plan to develop and so they bought them for us and we have this event here today,” Williamson noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Republican status IT will be recalled that Guyana attained republican status on February 23, 1970, four years after it became an Independent state on May 26, 1966.

This is, indeed, a significant milestone, but it also provided us with an opportunity to reflect on the path we have traversed, and the trials and tribulations we experienced over the five decades or so since we became an Independent nation.

To say that we are today a better society would be an understatement.

The mere fact of being an Independent nation, free from the dictates of an imperial power is enough to justify our enhanced status as a people and as a society. Gone are the days when policy decisions which impacted on the lives of Guyanese were made in Downing Street, London.

Guyana, as a colony of Britain, was subjected to foreign rule. The British flag, the Union Jack, the National Anthem and Coat of Arms were not symbols of a Guyanese society, but symbols of a foreign power and

domination. The Governor was Head of State and Head of Government.

As Head of State, he represented the Queen. His boss was in London, the Secretary of State for the Colonies, later called the Secretary of State for the Commonwealth and Colonial Affairs.

Under Crown Colony status, the Governor and the Secretary of State were extremely powerful; they had powers of veto and certification, conferring on the Governor the power to object to any law passed by the colonial legislature. Guyana went through several stages of colonial domination until 1966, when the country became Independent, with the Premier becoming the Prime Minister, and the Governor became the Governor-General representing the British Queen as Head of State but no longer the Head of Government. Sir David Rose was Governor up to 1966, and, following his accidental death, Mr. Arthur Chung succeeded him as Governor-General, and then after the conferral of repub-

lican status in February 1970 became the Ceremonial President. Forbes Burnham became the Prime Minister, and later, in 1980, the Executive President with full powers.

It is important to draw some lessons from our past, if only to demonstrate what can go wrong when the norms of democracy and democratic rule are absent from the governance structure of the society, and while the role played by Britain in the granting of both Independence and Republican status, based on ideological and Cold War considerations, cannot be dismissed, it was the complete rupture of the democratic fabric by the Burnham regime during the post-Independence period that was responsible for the social and economic decline that the country experienced until the restoration of democratic rule on October 5, 1992.

But all of that is now history; we have moved on since, and Guyana, today, is a proud member of the Commonwealth, of which the British Monarch is still the head. But unlike

colonial times, Guyana is now an equal member of the Commonwealth of Nations. We have now gone past the stage as a primary producer of raw materials for metropolitan consumption, and we are now an oil and gas-producing nation. And, even at a more fundamental level, we are a sovereign nation, and we owe allegiance to on other nation, large nor small.

For this we have every reason to celebrate, even though the celebrations this year, as in the previous year, is somewhat muted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

What, however, cannot be broken is the will and resilience of the Guyanese people as we strive to build a strong, prosperous and united society as envisaged by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The ‘One Guyana’ vision is both timely and necessary, especially at this moment of our history when there is that confluence of political, economic and cultural will.

Dear Mr. President:

Excellency,

On behalf of the United States, it is my pleasure to wish you a happy Mashramani in celebration of Guyana’s 52nd year as a republic on February 23.

The United States remains a committed partner in working together with Guyana to reinforce democratic values, promote inclusive economic growth, strengthen regional security, and successfully meet challenges posed by the climate crisis.

We look forward to building upon our shared values to collectively address global challenges and achieve a prosperous future for all.

Best wishes to the people of Guyana as you commemorate Mashramani.

On behalf of the Government and People of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and the friendly people of Guyana on the occasion of your Republic Day. India values the long-standing cordial and warm ties between our two countries characterised by convergence of views and cooperation in the international fora including the CARICOM. In recent years, there has been a deepening of our ties, with bilateral trade and investments witnessing rapid growth. I am confident that our bonds of friendship and cooperation will continue to expand and strengthen in the years ahead.

I convey my best wishes for Your Excellency’s good health and well-being as well as for the continued prosperity and progress of the friendly people of Guyana.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Ram Nath Kovind

Sincerely, Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (Photo credit: Chicago Sun Times)

His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Keep partisan politics away from development

–– Minister Teixeira MINISTER of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira, who is performing the functions of Prime Minister, on Tuesday said that as Guyana celebrates its 52nd anniversary as a Republic nation, the country must not let partisan politics get in the way of its transformational development.

The political stalwart travelled to Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) to deliver the feature address at a Flag-Raising Ceremony at the Bartica Community Centre in observance of the 2022 Republic Anniversary.

She said that while political and other rights must remain sacrosanct, Guyanese must not allow politicians to divide the country with their anti-development agenda.

“On this Republic anniversary, this is an opportune time for us in all parts of the country to look at ‘One Guyana’…,”

she said, adding: “Are we on the side of progress; are we on the side of wanting to sit and watch people fail, or do we want to watch people succeed?”

The Senior Minister said that the country is on the edge of progress, and that it is imperative that all benefit.

“We must find a way as a people to talk about the development of our townships; of our region and of our nation, in a way that brings progress, jobs and training for our people,” she said, adding that the Government has outlined a development path for the country that will protect and develop its natural and human resources.

“The Low-Carbon Development Strategy will offer development programmes in every sector of our country; it will look at reducing poverty and improving the quality of lives of people,” Minister Teixeira said.

After witnessing the hoisting of the flag in the

compound of the Bartica Community Centre, on First Avenue, Bartica, she then journeyed to Second Avenue, also in Bartica, where she received a general salute, and witnessed a military parade conducted by the Joint Services.

At the conclusion of the formal flag-raising programme, the minister was shown a new mural depicting the six ethnic groups of

the country on the wall of the Community Centre.

She discussed the work with the artist, Courtney Douglas, and informed him of her admiration of the piece.

Mayor of the Town of Bartica, Gifford Marshall and Regional Chairman, Kenneth Williams were also present at the Flag-Raising Ceremony. (DPI)

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Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira speaking in Bartica on Tuesday (DPI photo)

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Transport policies, resources needed to reduce global existence cost

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

–– Minister Edghill tells Inland Transport Committee COLLECTIVE and sustained efforts of governments and multilateral institutions must craft transport policies and allocate the financial and other resources in the most appropriate areas to stem or reduce the effects on the cost of global existence.

This is according to Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Anthony Edghill, during his keynote speech on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Inland Transport

Committee observed on Tuesday in Geneva, Switzerland.

“I would like to use this platform I have been given today to add my voice and our country’s commitment to supporting the global efforts to combat the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that threatens our individual and collective livelihoods,” he told the committee, while applauding the work of the Inland Transport Committee (ITC) over the years to promote sustainable

development in transport.

This work continues, he said, and it is precisely why officials this week will engage in dialogue and exchange ideas, as well as firmly commit through the signing of the Ministerial Resolution to move along the spectrum from words to firm actions.

The transport sector is one of the major contributors of CO2 emissions as well as a major energy consumer.

In this light, Minister

Edghill said that in order to assess sustainability of the transport sector, it is necessary to assess its trends and projections concerning carbon emissions and energy use.

Key issues that affect Latin America and the Caribbean, he added, are the rapid expansion of vehicular fleets, particularly of vehicles used for personal transportation, at a time when the roadway network has not kept pace with that expansion.

CHALLENGE For the governments of many cities, he noted that this has made mobility both a challenge as well as a high-priority issue in terms of comfort, transit times and air pollution.

Adding that this is acutely prevalent in Latin America, Minister Edghill said that another evident trend in Latin America is the rising use of diesel fuel by automobiles, primarily because the price of diesel is usually lower than gasoline and because there is an increased usage of sport utility vehicles -- many of which are diesel-fuelled.

“As we embark on the next steps for implement-

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Anthony Edghill ing the global plan for sustainable inland transport, every stakeholder -- including and especially all our governments and multilateral institutions must leverage our strengths and influences and take honourable actions in this decade that will have a lasting positive impact on the macro-economic stability of our livelihoods today and for generations to come,” he underscored.

He said the theme of this year’s Diamond Jubilee: “Ushering in a decade of delivery for sustainable inland transport and sustainable development” is most fitting for the current challenges of this era .

ADEQUATE FRAMEWORK This theme, he said, provides an adequate framework to address the global transport challenges many countries have faced since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019, early 2020.

“I have no doubt that if we deliver a coordinated and sustained response to the global challenges of inland transport like we did in our efforts to combat COVID-19 then at the end of this decade, history will judge us with favourable consideration.

As a cross-cutting sec-

tor, transport plays an important role in efforts towards achieving the 2030 sustainable development goals,” he posited.

In addition to their value and job creation, he said that the inland transport systems should be considered partly as enablers of sustainable development.

Therefore, he added the integrated approaches to policy making is imperative, including planning for land use, infrastructure development, public transport systems and goods’ delivery networks for the provision of affordable, efficient, safe and secure transport, improving energy efficiency, and at the same time reducing pollution and congestion.

“Transport is the metal reinforcement that holds the supply chain together.

Every step of the process is connected through transportation. It is transportation that moves raw materials from deposits where they are extracted, to the place where they are manufactured, to the distributors and finally to the consumers.

If we do not have an economically stable transport plan in place, a lot of money is lost, which diminishes our competitive advantage,” Minister Edghill said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Sol Guyana commits to US$50 million in investments over five years

CALLING it a milestone project for the company that is just part of the nearly US$50 million incoming investment for Guyana over the next five years, Sol Petroleum, on Monday last, commissioned a jetty at its Agricola head office, Greater Georgetown.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Sol Guyana’s General Manager, Earl Carribon, said the jetty

will plug US$13 million in projects into Guyana for 2022.

Among the company’s accomplishments, Carribon boasted of the completion of a fuel line connecting its Rome terminal to the Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI) fuel farm which allows for additional fuel berths for offshore vessels.

Added to that, he said construction of a 55,000-bar-

Cutting of the ceremonial ribbon

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd project contributes to the advancement of bunkering and support services infrastructure for Guyana and its booming oil and gas sector.

“This investment demonstrates Sol’s belief in the sustainability of Guyana’s development agenda,” Carribon said, adding: “the future of Guyana is indeed bright… and Sol remains committed to being a dependable and responsible partner to the people of Guyana… as we have been over the years.”

Turning attention to other investments to be realised in Guyana from the company, the Sol Guyana General Manager said the company

rel diesel tank has commenced at their Agricola headquarters to serve both the oil and non-oil sectors.

“We play a vital role in the seamless operation of the offshore activities of the oil & gas sector by providing fuel,” Carribon plugged, noting further that his company’s reach extends into marine, agriculture, manufacturing, hospitality and road transportation.

Local content has been a key point of discourse in Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector. Adding its weight to the discourse, See page 10

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Sol Guyana commits to US$50 million ...

From page 9

A section of the gathering as the Sol Guyana’s Mr Carribon delivered his address

Carribon said 78 per cent of managerial roles in the company are held

by Guyanese.

Assessing the whole company, he added that 97 per cent of the employees are Guyanese.

“We recognise the importance of our team in achieving what we do, and we will continue to provide training and development opportunities for the enhancement and enrichment of our people,” the Sol General Manager added.

As far as corporate social responsibility is con-

cerned, Carribon reflected on his company’s support last year in providing COVID-19 supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the Mocha Health Centre, and the Providence and Brickdam Police Stations.

The company had also supported the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 vaccination drive with fuel vouchers and donated Information Technology (IT) equipment to Victoria Primary School.

Identifying other beneficiaries of its community-based programmes,

the Sol General Manager said these include the Ruimveldt Children’s Home, the Guyana Cancer Institute, Joshua House Children’s Centre, and Paws For A Cause (Guyana) Inc. Also present at the event were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd; Head of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahendra Sharma; Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, Paul Cheong; and President of Parkland International, Pierre Magnan.

Minister Todd receives a Sol toy truck which had caught the eye of President and First Lady Ali’s son, Zayd during the International Energy Conference and Expo. The gift is intended for him.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Everyone must play a role in building a ‘One Guyana’ – Minister Indar

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar said government is working towards building ‘One Guyana’ and every one must play a part in the process.

He was addressing a gathering on the eve of Guyana’s 52nd anniversary as a Republic in the compound of Region Three’s Regional Demo-

cratic Council (RDC).

“If you are a child, your duty is to get an education; if you are a man or woman, you are supposed to be a productive member of society, you are supposed to contribute to society and that is a big circle that every single citizen of Guyana must play a part in the development of Guyana,” Minister Indar stated.

He said the building of

a One Guyana will also require an understanding of where the country was, where it is and where it is headed. He noted that government continues to invest in a bright future for all Guyanese.

Some areas of investment include agriculture, education, health, public works and general service delivery. Minister Indar noted that the recently passed budget, the largest to date, was crafted to improve the lives of Guyanese.

He said government has also passed a series of legislation since taking office.

The most notable is the Local Content Act which ensures Guyanese enjoy the benefits of the oil and gas sector.

“We have fought for it in the private sector and in government we have passed the legislation.

Guyanese now have a chance to be part of the sector. For too long foreign companies come and enjoy the benefits of the sector doing services for the operators and tier one contractors that Guyanese can do… The legislation now helps Guyanese to get involved so that they can provide goods and services

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar to the sector,” he said.

Regional Chairman, Sheik Ayube and Regional Executive Officer Jagnarine Somwar, among other regional officials, were present at the ceremony.

Guyana became a republic on February 23,

1970, just a few years after gaining its Independence.

Being a republic means supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and there is an elected or nominated President rather than a monarch. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Soldiers to benefit from free professional development

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–– through agreement between GDF and Texila American University THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Texila American University (TAU), on Tuesday, inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will see the university playing an important role in building academic training capacity within the force.

According to a release, the initiative forms part of the university’s desire to give back, by improving access to learning opportunities through its Centre for Professional Development (CPD). The MoU was signed by Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and Founder and President of the TAU, Saju Bhaskar.

According to the MoU, the courses will be offered free of cost to the GDF and will last a duration of three months each and ranks will be issued with certificates following their successful completion. The courses to be offered at the officer level will complement the capstone Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) and at the junior officer level, the Junior Command and Staff Course (JCSC). Courses are also being offered to complement courses at the level of non-commissioned officers.

Staff Officer One General Three (Operations and Training), Lieutenant Colonel Andy Pompey, during a short presentation, highlighted that at the SCSC level, officers will complete the certificate in Advanced Strategic Management as well as the certificate in Strategic Human Resource Management, the release noted.

It added that at the JCSC level, the officers will complete the Certificate in Intermediate Strategic Management and a certificate in Human Resource Management.

At the Non-Commissioned Officer level, ranks will complete the certificate in Human Resource Management and the certificate in Communication Skills in addition to those provided on the Senior Leaders Course (SLC).

Other internal courses that will be supplemented with courses to be offered by the TAU include the Grade One Finance Course, the Grade One and Grade Two Medical Assistant courses, the Grade Three Medic course and the Grade One Logistics Course, the release noted.

At the small but significant signing ceremony, Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess, in remarks noted, that the force’s collaboration with the university is yet another milestone in preparing ranks for the transformation of the country.

Brigadier Bess explained that that the capstone courses for both officers and other ranks have undergone some amount of modification.

GRATEFUL “I am grateful that your organisation has recognised the service and dedication of the officer and ranks and decided to offer these courses pro-bono to the GDF. We are thankful for this and we assure you that this will definitely contribute to capacity building in the force.

I also assure you that the commitment and dedication of other ranks will be a concrete testimony,” Brigadier Bess stated.

TAU Founder and President, Saju Bhaskar stated that while the university’s gesture was part of corporate social responsibility, it was also one that came from his heart as the son of a soldier in his native country.

He lauded the force’s efforts to develop its ranks in preparation for the future, adding that the courses will definitely boost the careers of ranks and help with professional knowledge development and skill enhancement.

“I am proud that I could do this and we are grateful that you have chosen Texila to be part of this journey to develop your ranks. We will definitely be a lifelong skill and professional development partner,” he said.

The MoU is a follow up from discussions held between both parties and is aimed at providing opportunities for the professional development of ranks of the GDF through training and skills development, the release concluded.

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and Founder and President of the TAU, Saju Bhaskar, holds up the signed agreement as a soldier looks on (GDF photograph)

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Batches of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare recalled THE Government Analyst Food and Drug Department has voluntarily recalled batches of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formula produced by Abbott Laboratories, Sturgis Michigan,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

USA. A release said the department received an official communication from the manufacturer indicating that a proactive, voluntary recall has been initiated due to four consumer complaints in the United States related to Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport in infants who have consumed the infant formula manufactured in Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis, Michigan facility.

“Although the local distributor has initiated this recall exercise, the depart-

ment hereby advises persons who may be in possession of any of the recalled powdered infant formulas with the batch numbers listed below, to discontinue use immediately and where possible return to the point of purchase,” the release said.

Outgoing passenger accused of trafficking $17.2M in cocaine remanded ESMOND Jermaine Anderson on Monday appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to a cocaine trafficking charge.

Anderson, of Number Five Village, West Coast Berbice, was arrested by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on February 18, 2022, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with $17.2 million worth of cocaine concealed in a bowl of ‘fried rice’.

According to CANU, Anderson was about to travel on a Jet Blue Airways flight that was destined for the JFK Airport in New York.

Esmond Jermaine His suitcase was reAnderson portedly searched in his presence, and the suspected cocaine was found inside the bowl.

A field test was conducted, and it confirmed that the substance was indeed cocaine.

The substance amounted to almost three kilograms (6.6 pounds). CANU said this quantity of cocaine has a street value of about US$84,000 (G$17.2 million).

Anderson was remanded to prison until March 8, 2022.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Health Ministry, CIOG partner to manage New Amsterdam Funeral Parlour

MINISTRY of Health Permanent Secretary, Malcolm Watkins, on Tuesday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) for the management and operation of the New Amsterdam Funeral Parlour, East Berbice-Corentyne.

During his remarks,

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, welcomed the initiative and said that the ministry is grateful for the partnership and collaboration with the CIOG. “We know the hardship that people were experiencing in Region Five and Six and therefore this is a very timely intervention. We value this partnership and by combining our efforts we will be able

Coen Jackson freed of child rape charge; mistrial declared on three other counts INTERDICTED Bishops’ High School teacher, Coen Jackson, was, on Tuesday, acquitted on one count of child rape, but the 12-member jury was unable to arrive at a verdict on three other counts.

As a result, Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, who presided over the matter at the Sexual Offences Court

Coen Jackson of the Demerara High Court told Jackson that he will be retried for the three counts at the next practical session of the Demerara Assizes.

Jackson had denied the four charges which stated that, on four separate occasions between February to May 2011, he engaged in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16 by abusing a position of trust.

After deliberating for over two hours, the jury was unable to deliver a verdict in relation to the three charges committed between February and April 2011.

However, they found him unanimously not guilty of the count which was commuted in May 2011.

Jackson was represented by attorneys-at-law Nigel Hughes and Jerome Khan.

Prosecutors Muntaz Ali, Nafeeza Baig, and Latifah Elliot presented the state’s case.

He will remain out on $300,000 bail.

Jackson who taught business and economics prior to being charged, remains accused of sexual predation of a school-aged girl.

According to reports, the first offence allegedly took place at D’Urban Street, Lodge, between February and May 2011.

It is alleged that Jackson would put on a pornographic movie and have the victim perform oral sex on him.

Sometime in May 2011, they engaged in sexual intercourse for the first time.

The events were brought to light in 2017, some six years after they occurred.

Reports are that the victim confided in someone, who caused her to realise that what had allegedly happened to her was wrong and that she was being abused by her teacher.

The victim said that she felt that she needed to bring this matter to light and report it because she did not want it to happen to another student.

Jackson stated in his unsworn statement to the court that he did have a relationship with the victim. However, the relationship started while she was a student at the University of Guyana and he was completing his Master’s degree.

The matter was investigated by the Ministry of Education and the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) and handed over to the police.

to reach people and provide services,” Minister Anthony said.

Also present at the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Health, Brickdam Headquarters, were Deputy President, Goolzar Namdar; Director of Education and Dawah, Moeenul Hack and CIOG General Manager, Shameena Haniff.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony (left) looks on at the signing of the agreement by officials of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana and the Ministry of Health (CIOG photograph)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Court orders City Engineer to clear parapet and entryway to Water Street store

HIGH Court Judge JoAnn Barlow on Tuesday ordered the City Engineer to take the necessary steps to remove all vehicles, carts, trays, barrels and boxes that are in front of Collections Boutique and Centre at 27 Water Street in downtown Georgetown.

This is according to Attorney-at-Law Siand Dhurjon, who filed the case on behalf of Dian Balram, the store’s owner.

Last November, Balram had filed a Fixed Date Application against the City Engineer and the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) through the

Town Clerk.

Justice Barlow has granted a court order for the City Engineer to remove all encumbrances on the pavements, streets and footpaths in the vicinity of the store.

According to Dhurjon, the court agreed with his submission that By-law 10 of the City Government By-Laws, made under the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap.28:01, places a statutory duty on the City Engineer to ensure that the pavements, streets, parapets, and footpaths of the city of Georgetown are not encumbered by persons placing things on them.

He added that the court has agreed that the law made no distinction between fixed or mobile things, and requires the pavements, streets, footpaths of the City to be unencumbered.

Balram, in her affidavit, said that vendors were impeding and preventing her access to her premises to an unacceptable extent by placing their structures, stalls, stands, boxes, goods and other things on the pavements, streets and footpaths in front of her premises.

“I am usually unable to drive my vehicle into my said premises in the afternoons.

Often, customers would come to pick up goods, and would be unable to make use of the driveway and entryway for ingress and egress. The same would occur when deliveries are made,” Balram said in her affidavit.

She also explained that this is a problem she has been having for years, and eventually wrote the City Council and Engineer letters on many occasions, and even visited the M&CC three times in 2021, all to no avail.

According to Dhurjon, the respondents’ attorney, Darren Wade, stated that when he and staff of the City

Council visited the premises they found no one to be blocking Balram’s Boutique.

“Mr Wade stated that the City Council was doing all that they could to clear up the area. However, an officer of the City Council appeared for the benefit of the Court, and stated that, indeed, vendors were blocking the pavement and accessways to Collections Boutique, and that the City Council had not even sat to consider the issue raised by Ms. Balram in her lawsuit in the nearly three months since

it was filed,” Dhurjon said.

The attorney added that the lawsuit was served on an individual known as “Bucky”, who operated a fixed stall in front of Collections Boutique, and she was soon after removed.

“However, Mr. Wade submitted to the court that the City Council had no obligation, under law, to remove vehicles, carts, stalls, and other ‘mobile things’ which could be moved around,” the attorney disclosed.

Man charged for killing boy during ‘wedding house’ brawl pleads guilty FIVE years after 13-year-old Daveanand Sanichar was fatally chopped to his head with a cutlass, and another person injured during a “wedding house” brawl, Kevin Sahoy, on Tuesday, stood before the Demerara High Court and confessed to the crime.

Sahoy was at the time appearing before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall for the capital offence of murder.

However, he opted to plead guilty to the lesser count

Kevin Sahoy and Daveanand Sanichar

of manslaughter which read that, on August 14, 2016, at Plantain Walk Access Road, Triumph, East Coast Demerara (ECD), he unlawfully killed Sanichar.

Sahoy also admitted that he wounded James Lall with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

The matter was adjourned to March 10, 2022 for the presentation of a probation report, following which he will be sentenced.

Sahoy is being represented by attorney-at-law Everton Singh-Lammy, while prosecutor Cicelia Corbin is on record for the State.

He was jointly charged with co-accused Raymond Wong for the crime. Wong is currently on remand awaiting the commencement of his High Court trial.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed that, on the day in question, Sanichar, who was at a function in the village, had an altercation with some men over his aunt. He reportedly left the function and returned with a cutlass, whereupon the argument continued.

Reports are that Sahoy, one of the persons with whom he had the argument, took the cutlass away from the teen and dealt him a chop to his head.

It is alleged that, while the teen was on the ground, he was severely beaten by Wong.

Woman burnt by husband succumbs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

TAVITA Lall called “Natasha”, 42, of Number 64 Village, East Berbice, succumbed to injuries sustained after she was set alight by her husband in early January.

Lall died at 06:30 hours on Tuesday at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

In tears, the woman’s mother, Bamela Lall, 60, said she received a call from a doctor who conveyed the devastating news.

She relayed that she spoke with her daughter on Wednesday last, and

during that conversation “Natasha” asked her if she loves her and she replied “yes”.

She then asked her mother to take care of her daughter. Natasha even told her mother that she may not make it. Her condition subsequently deteriorated from then to Sunday when she became unresponsive.

“When I visit she Sunday afternoon she was in unconscious,” the mother said.

Lall, a mother of four,

Tavita Lall called 'Natasha'

Elderly man dies in accident

SAHADEO Balgobin, 64, of Lot 210 De Souza Street, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD), who was hit by a taxi on Monday evening while walking on the Better Hope Public Road, succumbed to his injuries Tuesday morning around 09:30 hours, police have confirmed.

The car with registration HB 7962 was driven by Balram Sitaram, 61, of Lusignan East, ECD. According to Police Headquarters, the driver of the motorcar was proceeding east along the northern driving lane of the northern carriageway of the Better Hope Public Road, ECD when the pedestrian ran from south to north across the road and into the path of the motorcar.

Police said the pedestrian fell on the car bonnet and windscreen then onto the road surface where he received injuries to the head and about the body.

The driver of the motorcar, along with public-spirited citizens, picked up the pedestrian identified as Balgobin and took him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Accident and Emergency Unit for medical attention.

He was in an unresponsive state with a broken left leg.

Despite the efforts of medical personnel at the institution, the pedestrian died Tuesday morning.

The driver of the motorcar is currently in custody.

A breathalyser test conducted on him found no trace of alcohol in his system.

Police said a notice of intended prosecution has been served on the driver of the motorcar.

suffered burns from her face to her toes and was given a 50/50 chance of survival. She also had to undergo surgery to remove her breasts due to the severity of the burns.

On the day in question, she was preparing dinner when her husband doused her with kerosene and set her alight after he verbally abused and accused her of cheating on him. She had vehemently denied his accusations.

The woman had also

confided in her mother that she was preparing to leave him since she was fed up of the constant abuse.

The accused, identified as Dipnarine Seelall, 49, had locked her in the house and sat in the verandah as she screamed in agony.

Her neighbours, who heard her screams and pleas for help, came to her rescue. They had to break the door to gain access to the injured woman.

Seelall escaped from the scene but police managed to apprehend him the said night and days later he was charged and remanded to prison for attempted murder. The charge is expected to be upgraded to a murder charge.

Prior to her demise, Natasha worked as a cleaner at the Tagore Memorial Secondary School and was described as a hardworking, kind and willing individual.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Jamaican, Roshane Roach receives UG’s Menezes-Rodney Award THE University of Guyana Menezes-Rodney Award for the Best Performing Student in Caribbean History at the June/July 2021 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations was presented to Roshane Roach of the Campion College, Jamaica.

According to a release, the Region’s Top Performers at the 2021 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations were honoured at a simple ceremony which was held virtually from the Virgin Islands on February 10, 2022.

University of Guyana’s Vice-Chancellor, XI, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin attended the ceremony virtually and made brief remarks.

In presenting the award to Roshane Roach, Professor Mohamed-Martin noted: “It is not often that we find young people who are interested in history, and, when we find them, we must celebrate them, and so, the University of Guyana is delighted to

present the Menezes-Rodney Award for the best graduating student at CSEC in History for 2021.”

She added: “Mr. Roach is indeed a champion and we celebrate him. We celebrate and thank the teachers who would have prepared and nurtured his love for history, as well as his family and friends.”

The Vice-Chancellor, the release stated also extended thanks to CXC for partnering with the University of Guyana and for enabling the university to be present and to deliver the award, virtually.

Professor Mohamed-Martin urged all the students to keep aiming high and to do what is necessary to remain safe and healthy.

In 2019, CXC introduced two new awards in recognition of the work of regional stalwarts in education; the first being the University of Guyana Menezes-Rodney Award for Most Outstanding Performance in Caribbean History at the CSEC level.

Last year for the first time the University of Guyana Menezes-Rodney Award was awarded to Kezia Sealey-Liverpool from Trinidad. The award also carries with it a full scholarship to study history at UG. “UG’s Chancellor, Professor Edward Greene, Vice-Chancellor, XI, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin; Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Professor Emanuel Cummings and Dr. Mellissa Ifill, as well as the entire senior management team, faculty and staff of the University of Guyana extend warmest congratulations to all the students who were successful at the CSEC and CAPE in 2021,” the release concluded.

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Gov’t committed to building 'One Guyana'

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

–– AG urges citizens to partake in developmental agenda

AS Guyana celebrates its 52nd Republic Anniversary, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., on Tuesday night, reiterated

said that Guyana was now in the “big leagues” as he mentioned that Guyana was showcased to the world during the recently concluded International Energy Confer-

now competing for space and resources in the country.

To this end, Nandlall emphasised that now was the time for Guyanese to genuinely work towards national

From left to right: Regional Chairman of Region Four, Daniel Seeram; Opposition MP Amanza Walton-Desir; Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, and Opposition MP Ganesh Mahipaul, moments after the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead (Delano Williams Photo) government’s commitment to the construction of a modern Guyana.

Nandlall made these remarks during a Republic Day celebration hosted by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

The minister stated that Guyana had come a long way, through a pathway of struggle, to achieve its republican status.

“Our government is committed to the construction of a modern Guyana upon a couple of fundamental pillars: 1, national unity, 2, respect for the rule of law, 3, respect for the constitutional rights and constitutional values of our society and 4, every Guyanese must be afforded to play an equal part in that journey to take our country forward,” the AG said.

He emphasised that these are the pillars that will help the government to carry out the national developmental agenda.

It was against this background that the minister

ence and Expo.

He said that powerful players in the world were

unity. “If there was ever a time for us to stop paying lip service to national unity

and genuinely hold hands together and move forward, this is the time. Cat will eat our dinner right in this land,” he said.

He added that the government welcomes all Guyanese on board and noted that if political leaders attempt to divide the nation, citizens must recognize and distance themselves from those persons.

The Attorney General told those gathered, “This is perhaps one of the most important Republic Day celebrations because the charge that I want to leave you with is for us to commit ourselves to partake in the developmental agenda of our country.”

Meanwhile, APNU+AFC Member of Parliament (MP), Amanza Walton Desir in her remarks stated that the ultimate victory for the country would be realising a united Guyana. This united Guyana, she said must be committed to the development of all Guyanese first and others later.

“We must today endeav-

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, delivering remarks at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Four’s Republic Day celebration (Delano Williams photo) our to build a united Guyana committed to a fair share for all Guyanese so that our parents, our children and yes, we ourselves can enjoy a good life,” she said, Walton-Desir further noted that this united Guy-

Officials observing the hoisting of the national flag (Delano Williams photo)

ana must be indivisible against any and all threats to its sovereignty and claims to its territory. She indicated that the country must be committed to the rule of law, ethics and to good governance.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Digicel rewards loyal customers on 15th Anniversary

FIFTEEN loyal customers of Digicel Guyana recently walked away with bright smiles and one of the most coveted mobile devices in their hands.

The communications provider celebrated their

15th Anniversary in Guyana on February 14, and, according to a release, made good use of the occasion to celebrate their customers, 15 of whom have been with them since their launch in 2007.

Each of those 15 customers received a brand new Samsung S21 handset for their loyalty, among them Kenneth Singh, Odacie Fraser-Goodrich, Chandrapaul Persaud, Desiree Fordyce, Desmond

Bascom, Henry Sukwa, Cecilia Clarke, Cathleen Thomas, Sattie Brananwaj, David Williams, Tunza Woolford, Aubrey Persaud, and Lorenzo Sampson.

These customers were

drawn from all over Guyana, demonstrating, once again, Digicel’s position as the provider with the widest coverage, the release noted.

“We are not only celebrating 15 years of quality service in Guyana; we are also celebrating our customers. Without them, our celebration could not be possible. Since our launch in 2007, we have gained loyal customers in some of the most remote parts of Guyana, including Kabakaburi, Lanabali, Issano and Mango Landing, and we will continue to provide new and upgraded services in all 10 regions of Guyana. This is our commit-

ment and promise to our customers and Guyana,” said Gregory Dean, CEO of Digicel Guyana.

Apart from rewarding 15 of its loyal customers, Digicel also gave all customers with existing data plans, as well as those who activated theirs on February 14, free bonus on use data of 1.5 Gigs.

“We are excited about our future in Guyana, and look forward to bringing a host of new and improved services to our valued customers for the years to come, and wish to once again thank our customers as we stay better together,” Dean said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 23, 2022

20,000 water meters to be installed this year GUYANA Water Incorporated (GWI) is aiming to install 20,000 meters on the coastland this year, in keeping with its goal to achieve 85 per cent metering in this area of the country by 2025, a release from the

State company said.

This is the continuation of a robust metering programme which saw over 15,000 meters being installed in 2021, inclusive of the replacement of close to 5,000 non-functional or faulty me-

ters.

The release noted that the company’s five-year strategic plan for 2020-2025 sets out to achieve the aforementioned percentage of metering against baseline data from 2019 which reflects 53

per cent metering along the coastland.

Among the areas to be metered during this year in Region Two are Anna Regina, Cotton Field, Lima, Mainstay, Reliance and Walton Hall.

A field staff conducts works on a service connection (GWI photo) In Region Three, the metering schedule includes Anna Catherina, Den Amstel, Cornelia Ida, Goed Fortuin, Pouderoyen and Versailles.

“On the East Bank Demerara -- Eccles, Farm, Great Diamond and Little Diamond and on the East Coast Demerara – Better Hope, Industry, Lusignan, Ogle and Happy Acres.

“The Georgetown metering schedule includes Kitty, Lamaha Gardens, Queenstown, South Ruimveldt Gardens and Bel Air Gardens.

“In Region Six, metering will be done in areas which include Williamsburg, Rose Hall town, Nigg and Port Mourant, while in Region

10, metering will be carried out in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, among other areas,” the release said.

Metered GWI customers are billed based on the amount of water consumed and this allows them to manage their consumption to avoid a higher reading, thus saving money.

The release also noted that metering helps the company to control the demand for this valuable resource and contributes towards the reduction of water losses.

GWI is aiming to reduce water losses, referred to as Non-Revenue Water (NRW) from 70 per cent in 2019 to 55 per cent in 2025, the company said.

One of the water meters to be installed (GWI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday February 23, 2022

West Indies include Phillip, Campbell... (From back page) England’s tour of the Caribbean in 2019.

Phillip has taken 12 wickets at an average of 14.25 per wicket for Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, with best figures of 5-82 against Jamaica Scorpions.

“Anderson Phillip bowled extremely well and was very impressive in the first two rounds of the West Indies Championship and we de-

cided to give him an opportunity in the Test squad to face England. He has been around the squad before in white ball cricket, so he has some experience at the international level,” Haynes said of the 25-year-old who made his international debut last March against Sri Lanka when he played one One-Day International.

Meantime, left-arm

fast-bowling all-rounder Raymon Reifer has been overlooked despite an outstanding start to the West Indies Championship.

Off-spinning all-rounders Roston Chase and Rahkeem Cornwall, Shai Hope, Shannon Gabriel and left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican were also omitted. All four had toured Sri Lanka last November for the two-Test series in

which West Indies suffered a whitewash.

The first Apex Test will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium here from March 8 to 12, following a warm-up match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) from March 1 to 4.

The West Indies squad will assemble in Antigua from February 25 for a training camp ahead of the Apex

Test Series.

SQUAD – Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Jermaine Blackwood (vice-captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Joshua Da Silva, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Veerasammy Permaul, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales.

US women's national team reach agreement... in sport but for women in general."

USA team-mate Megan Rapinoe said: "I think we're going to look back on this day and say this is the moment that US Soccer changed for the better.

"Something like this is never going to happen again and we can move forward in making soccer the best sport we possibly can in this country

and setting up the next generation so much better than we ever had it."

The United States won the Women's World Cup for the fourth time in 2019 and have claimed Olympic gold five times.

Five senior members of the USA's World Cup-winning team, including Morgan and Rapinoe, initially filed a complaint against the national

federation for wage discrimination in 2016.

The bid for equal pay in which they sought $66m (£52.8m) in damages - was dismissed by a court in May 2020, leading to an appeal.

The US Soccer Federation offered identical contracts to its men's and women's national teams in an attempt to resolve its gender pay dispute in September.

In a joint statement on TueSday, US Soccer and USWNT said: "We are pleased to announce that, contingent on the negotiation of a new collective bargaining agreement, we will have resolved our longstanding dispute over equal pay and proudly stand together in a shared commitment to advancing equality in soccer."

It added: "Getting to

Aussies braced for unknown challenges...

(16) and Tauseef Ahmed (12) collected 28 between them.

Four decades on, Chappell believes the wickets produced will likely be contingent on what Pakistan considers to be the best way to beat Australia who, despite their most recent away series win coming back in February 2016 in New Zealand, have recently become the ICC's top-ranked Test nation.

"I've played on some really good, bouncy wickets in Pakistan, but I've coached India there (in January 2006) when they've produced some slow, turning wickets, so it could be a mixed bag," the former Australia captain said.

"It really depends on what they're trying to do. They'll probably see (pace bowling)

as Australia's strength, with the weaknesses for Australia being the second spinner, and how well we play spin.

"I think they're more likely to produce conditions that will be conducive to spin and try to put pressure on us that way, and blunt our pace attack a bit.”

Both former players agreed that the foreign and largely unknown touring aspects of Pakistan, both on the field and away from it, will also factor into what presents as one of the most significant challenges an Australian Test side can face.

"You've got an inexperienced captain, a new coach, and you're up against a quality side, so it's going to give us a good indication of where

we sit," Waugh said. "I think (Pat) Cummins' captaincy is going to be tested out a lot more than it was in Australia this summer.

"England were poor (in the four-nil Ashes defeat), there's no doubt about it. We were good, but they didn't offer much of a challenge.

"It's going to be much more challenging in Pakistan, where a lot of our players have never been before.

"It's not the easiest country to tour, there'll be a lot of security, they're going to be quite insulated in their hotels, and it's a good quality opponent."

Added Chappell: "It's a huge test. It's a challenging place to play cricket for Australians because of the

Sir Curtly Ambrose hopes... (From page 33) very well work against the progress of the player if he takes it the wrong way and becomes complacent and not put in the hard work.

“I’ve always preferred to look at players over a longer period of time before I can make a real assessment of what they are doing; but it was a good three-days, and hopefully, in the near future I’ll be back to continue the progress.”

In the meantime, Sir Curtly stated that the local coaches will monitor and encourage the bowlers to continue working hard on

their game so when he returns, he’ll see them more advanced.

“You know, I said to them that I played this game so they can’t really fool me, I will know for sure if they were working or not.”

Ambrose would have done some similar programmes in his native Antigua and Barbuda, courtesy of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and he enjoys doing same.

“I’ve always believed that it is important that knowledge and experience is better when you give back especially to the youngsters,

so I’ve always enjoyed working with young, aspiring fast bowlers so they can learn from my experience. Whatever I’m teaching them is what I’ve been through and what I know as opposed to just guessing.

“I’ve never pretended or behaved like I know everything and that’s one of the things I try to tell them, I don’t know everything.

There are times when I struggle to work things out as well, but whatever knowledge and experience I’ve gained over the years, I imparted to them.

(From back page)

this day has not been easy.

The USWNT players have achieved unprecedented success while working to achieve equal pay for themselves and future athletes.

"Today, we recognize the legacy of the past USWNT leaders who helped to make this day possible, as well as all of the women and girls who will follow." (BBC Sport)

(From page 32)

on-field conditions, but more so off the field, and particularly in the current environment, there's not many places where you can get away and relax, so it'll be fairly full-on.

"A lot of the guys have spent a lot of time in India in recent times, but it's a different tour to India – it's not as open as India is – so it'll be challenging for them both on and off the field, and if Pakistan play as well as they can play, it'll be a big challenge.”

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Tour Fixtures: March 4-8: First Test, Rawalpindi March 12-16: Second Test, Karachi March 21-25: Third Test, Lahore March 29: First ODI, Rawalpindi March 31: Second ODI, Rawalpindi April 2: Third ODI, Rawalpindi April 5: Only T20I, Rawalpindi English Racing Tips Newcastle 09:30 hrs Khilwafy 10:00 hrs Figures 11:10 hrs Strong Power 11:45 bhrs Internationalangel 12:20 hrs Anthem National Doncaster 09:42 hrs Ridgeway 11:25 hrs Dingo Dollar 12:00 hrs Half Track 12:35 hrs Dolphin Square Ludlow 09:50 hrs Lord Of Cheshire 10:25 hrs Deja Vue 11:00 hrs CoolnaughHaze 11:35 hrs I K Brunel 12:10 hrs Whatsupwithyou 12:45 hrs Majestic Merlin

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday February 23, 2022

Aussies braced for unknown challenges on Pakistan tour AN Australian Test side with a new coach, an inexperienced captain and not a single series win overseas in six years will face one of their greatest challenges when they tour Pakistan next month.

And making the assignment that much more difficult for Pat Cummins' team will be the element of the unknown, with no Australian side having toured there since 1998, and only five Tests played in the country since international teams began returning there in 2019, a decade on from a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team

of 2009.

Those are the opinions of a couple of Test batting greats, Mark Waugh and Greg Chappell, who also offered up the likelihood of differing threats for Australia's batting group, in the form of both reverse swing and spin when the three-Test series gets underway next Friday, March 4.

Waugh is the most recent Australian to have notched three figures in Test cricket in Pakistan, his third-innings 117 having helped Mark Taylor's side to a draw in the third Test in Karachi on that '98 tour, and ultimately a

landmark one-nil series win – Australia's only triumph in the subcontinental nation in the past 60 years.

And while acknowledging it is almost a quarter of a century since he toured there, the 128-Test veteran remains well placed to assess the types of pitches a Test tour of Pakistan has traditionally thrown up.

"I always thought the wickets in Pakistan, they're not like Indian wickets – they don't break up, and they're not as dusty," Waugh told cricket.com.au. "They don't have a lot of grass on them but they're quite hard, and re-

verse swing is as much, if not more of a danger than spin.

"In my era they had Mushtaq (Ahmed) and Saqlain (Mushtaq), and a few other bits-and-pieces spinners, but I always thought the quick bowlers were equally as dangerous, if not more so, in Pakistan, with reverse swing and pace through the air.

"So it's certainly different to India – it's not as spin-oriented."

Recent statistics support Waugh's view. As cricket. com.au reported last month: in the five Tests Pakistan have hosted since late 2019, fast bowlers have taken 89 wickets at an average of just under 30 compared to 48 wickets from spinners, at an average nudging 40.

Waugh also called out

the quality of Pakistan's leftarm paceman Shaheen Shah Afridi, who he believes will cause Australia's left-handers – in particular David Warner – problems with his angle of delivery, pace and ability to move the ball away.

"I don't think Warner's looked quite as comfortable against quick bowling in recent times – Mark Wood definitely unsettled him, and Shaheen Afridi will be a big test for him," he said.

"It's a different angle and for him it's a little bit like a right-arm quick coming round the wicket – do you play the ball, or do you leave the ball?

"Generally a right-arm seamer over the wicket is going to angle across the wicket so he's probably more confident whether to leave or

play the ball, but when you've got the left-armer from that different angle, he's probably not as comfortable. Shaheen Afridi's got the ability to angle in and take the ball away from David Warner, so he does pose that question.

"Then if one goes straight on, he's bringing bowleds and lbws into play. So it's a different challenge, definitely."

Chappell toured Pakistan for a three-Test series in 1980, making 235 in the drawn second Test in Faisalabad followed by a pair of half-centuries in another draw in Lahore.

That series, won one-nil

by Pakistan, was dominated by spin; Australian left-arm orthodox tweaker Ray Bright took 15 wickets while the hosts' spin pair, Iqbal Qasim (Turn to page 31)

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday February 23, 2022

BCB/Dr. Frank Denbow Fast Bowlers Camp

Sir Curtly Ambrose hopes it’s the start of something continuous FORMER West Indies fast-bowling icon, Sir Curtly Ambrose, commenting after he concluded the historic three-day Fast Bowlers’ Camp in the Ancient County, under the auspices of Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and sponsored by USA-based Dr Frank Denbow, posited that it was a fantastic start to what he believes would be something great in years to come.

Speaking on Sunday, February 13, soon after concluding the camp at the Albion Community Centre ground, Sir Ambrose said: “I thought the three days went very well. All the bowlers who attended were very receptive to what

Sir Curtly Ambrose and BCB president Hilbert Foster pose with over 60 fast bowlers from Berbice and Georgetown

I was trying to teach them.

They asked a lot of questions which is so important. It tells me that they are willing to learn. They were seeking as much information as possible which I think was very encouraging.”

Ambrose, who was

assisted by United Kingdom-based former Guyanese opening batter, Nolan McKenzie, shared that the three days is just a start as there is so much more to learn.

“It was totally impossible to teach them everything in three days but they all

enjoyed it, I enjoyed myself and am hoping that this is the start of something con-

tinuous.”

The historic programme was prompted by Dr Den-

bow who saw Berbician fast bowler Isai Thorne in action against England with the West Indies Under-19 team back in 2021. Thorne who was a 16-year-old quickie at the time also attended the three-day clinic and was an inspiration to the other attendees.

While there were a few bowlers who stood out more than others, Sir Curtly noted that he is not the kind of coach who likes to call names too early as this can (Turn to page 31)

34

Whyte signs contract to fight heavyweight champion Tyson Fury

… Bout expected at Wembley in April DILLIAN Whyte has signed a contract to fight WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury just hours before the deadline. The fight is expected to take place at Wembley Stadium and Fury confirmed it is to be on April 23.

Whyte, 33, had until 06:00 GMT yesterday to sign but had spent the weekend and Monday negotiating details of the deal.

"Dillian Whyte signed his contract for $8M, what a surprise," Fury said on social media.

Fury added: "The man's signed for the biggest payday he's going to get in his life."

In a later video yesterday he told his followers that he will now be taking a break from social media as he prepares for the bout.

"I'm about to go off social media completely for the next eight and a half weeks," he said.

"I'm going into training camp to give Dillian Whyte all the respect in the world he needs. I'll never underestimate anyone in my life.

"Don't phone me, call me, email me, text me or try to contact me in any way as I am out of bounds until May. I'll be training away. Please respect my privacy and space.

See you all at the press con-

Tyson Fury (left) and Dillian Whyte will fight at Wembley Stadium on April 23

ference."

Whyte is the mandatory challenger to Fury's WBC belt and has been waiting years for a shot at the world title as the WBC's number-one-ranked contender.

After lengthy discussions between both teams came to nothing, Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions won the purse bids in January with a $41M (£30M) bid, beating Whyte's promoter Eddie Hearn who was the only other bidder.

Fury, 33, is now set to receive 80%, around £20M, of the purse and Whyte the remaining 20%.

Whyte has been pushing for a bigger split of the purse bid but the £5.6M he is guaranteed to receive will be the biggest payday of his career to date. There is also a further

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£3.1M on offer for the winner.

Fury has not fought in the UK since August 2018 when he beat Francesco Pianeta having fought exclusively in the US since signing a promotional deal with Bob Arum's Top Rank.

Whyte has built a formidable reputation in UK with just two defeats on his record.

There was a suggestion his decision to delay signing his contract was an attempt to unsettle Fury, but the 'Gypsy King' poked fun at the idea.

He joked: "My head hurts from all the mind games Dillian Whyte has been playing on me. Oh my god. I'm so sore I don't know whether I'm coming or going, my training's camp a mess."

Fury, who is unbeaten in his pro career with 31 wins and one draw, will now need to seek a boxing licence from the British Boxing Board of Control.

A news conference officially announcing the fight could happen as early as today. Cardiff's Principality Stadium is still an option to host the bout although the 90,000-seater Wembley Stadium, a venue neither fighter has headlined, is a clear favourite.

There is still one final outstanding issue between Fury and Whyte to be resolved before an official announcement is made. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday February 23, 2022

Achievers U21 win Brentnol Woodford Memorial four-team competition ACHIEVERS Youth and Sports Club U21 team won the inaugural Brentnol Woodford 15-Over FourTeam Memorial competition, which was played at the Bush Lot ground on Sunday.

The event that was organised by Achievers and the West Berbice Cricket Association honoured former cricketer Woodford, who died at the age of 29 in January of 2022, while seeking treatment for cancer in the USA. The avid cricketer, who worked as a police officer, played for several teams over the years, including Rainbow Generation team, Bush Lot team, Berbice Police team, West Berbice First Division team and, due to his outstanding ability, he was also selected for the West Berbice Franchise team.

Last Sunday, four teams, including two from Achievers (Senior team and U21), along with Bush Lot United and Police, competed in his honour.

CLASHES Achievers U21 and West Berbice Police played in the opener. Police won the toss and opted to bat first, but were pegged back by fast bowler Omari Arthur, who grabbed 5-10 from three overs. Jayden Samuels supported with 2-14 from two overs to help restrict the Lawmen for 73 all out in

Achievers U21’s skipper Jayden Samuels collects the Brentnol Woodford championship trophy

12.3 overs.

G. Grant and Lennox Williams led the score with 17 and 15 runs respectively.

Achievers in reply raced to 75-5 in seven overs with Shamal Angel hitting 34.

In the second clash, Bush Lot United faced Achievers Senior team.

Bush Lot won the toss, batted first and scored 91-8 in their allotted 15 overs. K. Ali and Rajiv Kushun led the chase with 24 runs each.

Bowling for Achievers Seniors, Kenje Sedoc took 4-8 from three overs.

In reply, Sherwyn McPherson fired his way to 46 runs to lift Achievers to an eight-wicket victory in 11.3 overs. R. Hemraj led the attack for Bush Lot with 2-20 from three overs.

In the last match of the round-robin battle, Achievers U21 took on their Seniors.

The Senior side won the toss and batted first in a

game reduced to 10 over, due to time. Led by Raffel Estraido with 27 and Sherwyn McPherson with 22, the older players were able to score 84-4. The U21 skipper Jayden Samuels led the bowling attack with 2-8 from two overs.

In reply, several of the U21 players reached double figures to clinch a seven-wicket victory.

Nickel Fraser and Titus Webster finished with 16 not out each, while Angel added 12 and A. Rogers 11.

Fraser was named manof-the-match. That trophy was handed over to him by one of Woodford’s uncles, while the winning trophy was presented to the captain by the father of the late Brentnol Woodford.

President of the Achievers club, David Black, also presented a plaque to Woodford’s father on behalf of Woodford’s wife and relatives.

Ireland, UAE secure qualification for 2022 T20 World Cup IRELAND beat hosts Oman by 56 runs in the T20 World Cup Qualifier semi-final to qualify for the tournament proper in Australia later this year.

Ireland recovered from losing openers Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie in the third over, to post a score of 165-7, Gareth Delany top-scoring with 47.

In reply, Oman struggled to keep their run-rate up as they were all out for 109 with nine balls remaining.

Shoaib Khan scored 30 for the hosts, while Simi Singh took 3-20 for Ireland.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also booked their ticket to Australia by beating Nepal by 68 runs in the other semi-final. Having assured qualification, Ireland

and the UAE will meet in the Qualifier final tomorrow.

The Irish will be making their seventh straight appearance in the T20 World Cup, having only missed the inaugural edition in 2007.

Ireland had made a shaky start to the Global Qualifier A event, losing their first game last week to the UAE, but bounced back with successive wins over Bahrain and Germany to reach the semi-finals.

Oman won the toss and opted to field, but Irish captain Balbirnie and Stirling, who had previously made three straight fifty-partnerships, fell early to leave Ireland 19-2.

Delany shone as he struck 47 from 32 balls, before Andy McBrine added

late impetus with a 21-ball 36.

Oman, who had qualified for the last two T20 World Cups, never got going with the bat and were bowled out for 109, as Irish spinners Singh and McBrine (2-24) took five wickets between them.

Josh Little and Craig Young also took two wickets apiece.

Ireland and the UAE will join the 12 sides who reached the 2021 T20 World Cup 'Super 12' stage in the main tournament Down Under and which gets underway on October 16.

The final two spots will be decided at the Global Qualifier B event in Zimbabwe in July. (BBC Sport)

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday February 23, 2022

Madray, Duncan, and Persaud emerge as National Archery Champs FOLLOWING the postponement from last year, Archery Guyana's Seven Seas Indoor Championship 2021 recently concluded at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) following two nights of action.

The competition commenced Tuesday, February 15, 2022 with the Ranking Rounds which determined the pairing of archers for the competitive elimination shoot out on Thursday 17th February, 2022.

Archers were keenly awaiting the exciting 18-Metre Indoor Championship for men and women of all ages in two categories: Recurve and Barebow.

For the Recurve competition, Samira Duncan took 1st place (gold medal) and Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon placed second. The men's contest was keenly contested as Umasankar Madray reigned supreme, earning the coveted 1st place (gold medal). Jeewanram Persaud

Prize-winners pose with Director of Shooting, Mr Ryan McKinnon, Chairman of Judges Committee Mr Robert Singh and Seven Seas representative

Men’s gold medallist for 2021, Umasankar Madray, receives his prize from Seven Seas representative

ended in 2nd place (silver medal) with Fabian Ramdatt receiving 3rd place (bronze medal).

For the Barebow competition, Jeewanram Persaud finished in 1st place (gold medal) followed by Nicho-

las Hing in 2nd place (silver medal) and Sean Duncan, 3rd place (bronze medal).

The competition was successfully conducted under supervision of the Director of Shooting, Ryan McKinnon and the Compe-

titions Committee, together with the Chair of the Judges Committee, Mr Robert Singh and his team of nationally certified judges. The competition was customised to meet strict COVID-19 guidelines.

This annual indoor championship was sponsored by Seven Seas and the archers were kept hydrated

by Archery Guyana’s sponsor Oasis Water. Partici-

pants and spectators at the event were refreshed with Guyana Beverages Inc.’s new Sports Drink, Altitude.

The Board of Archery Guyana expressed thanks for Seven Seas’ continued collaboration as a competition sponsor. Special thanks go to the Management of Massy Distribution (Guyana) Inc. and Seven Seas as Archery Guyana moves forward to promote the sport

of Archery in Guyana.

Seven Seas also provided branded masks and special packages, which were made available to the respective winners, were deeply appreciated.

The next competition for Archery Guyana will be the Outdoor Championships set for Sunday, March 6, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Bismah Maroof – A chance for us to break the glass ceiling THE Women’s World Cup is a platform where stars are born, and it is the ultimate stage where cricketers of the day can leave ever-lasting legacies. For Pakistan, the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 is an opportunity to leave a mark and break the glass ceiling.

We arrive in New Zealand well prepared, with our eyes set on one of the four semi-final spots. We have never made it to the knockouts of any World Cup across the two formats, but that does not mean that that time will never come.

With the experience of Javeria Khan, Nida Dar, Diana Baig and Anam Amin; the extraordinary talent of Fatima Sana and Ghulam Fatima; and the grit of Aliya Riaz and Omaima Sohail, this team has all the ingredients to make history in this beautiful country.

We have put together a strong squad, which not only covers all bases but also provides the right balance required for a tournament as lengthy and demanding as this World Cup will be. We have

a perfect mix of talent and experience in both departments, and a team eager to push the limits and make its fans and supporters proud.

Since the last edition in 2017 of the event, our team has had its share of ups and downs.

Through sheer hard work, grit and determination, we established ourselves as a force to reckon in the ICC Women’s Championship 2017-20 cycle.

We achieved many firsts, thanks to the unrelenting passion of the girls. It was no mean achievement for a side which had finished seventh or second-last in the inaugural edition of the ICC Women’s Championship just two years ago and failed to win a match in the following World Cup to break into the top four of the table, before finishing fifth due to a series cancellation.

And that momentum translated in our victory against the West Indies in our ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 opener.

The team’s performances, however, since our return to cricket after a COVID-in-

Pakistan Women’s captain Bismah Maroof

duced hiatus have not been up to the mark, There have been some outstanding individual performances. But the overall results have been below par and there is a strong realisation in the camp that the last year does not justify the

collective potential and talent of this side.

There is an urge to undo the mistakes of the last year in every individual. During our preparations in Karachi in the lead-up to this tournament, every player has put in the

hard yards to prepare for the challenges that await us in New Zealand.

The World Cup format provides all the sides much-desired exposure and experience as each team is pitted against all the participating sides. With each team playing seven matches, only a side that displays quality cricket on a consistent basis will progress.

We will take one match at a time and focus on the task at hand. The challenge to be among the top four sides can overwhelm one, but when that challenge is broken down into small, achievable goals one gets motivated to achieve it.

We start our campaign by facing India, which promises to be a great occasion for women’s cricket in the subcontinent. It will surely be an exciting contest. Pakistan v India is a rivalry that attracts record eyeballs across the globe. In our part of the world, it becomes the talk of the town when the two neighbours face off. I am sure millions of girls will tune in to watch this game and will leave inspired to take

up the game.

I am thrilled to be here in New Zealand, finally, for this World Cup and thank the Pakistan Cricket Board for their support that helped me in returning to the game I love, smoothly. The introduction of the maternal policy has made the game more inclusive for women. It is a great initiative, which will definitely see more girls follow their passion.

With my daughter, Fatima, in the picture, I am excited to see how the next couple of months will pan out.

COVID has had an impact on women’s game around the world, but this tournament promises a new beginning and comes with a ray of hope of us getting back to normal life.

Good luck to all the participants! Here is to making this World Cup a memorable one. (ICC Media)

Left-handed opener John Campbell has been recalled after being dropped almost a year ago

Fast bowler Anderson Phillip could make his Test debut for West Indies against England in Antigua in March

West Indies include Phillip, Campbell for first England Test … No place for Chase, Gabriel, Cornwall , Hope, and Warrican

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Left-handed opener John Campbell has been recalled for the West Indies Men’s squad for the first Apex Test match against England after being dropped from the side almost a year ago, while Shamarh Brooks has also made a comeback.

Fast bowler Anderson Phillip, meantime,

is poised for his Test debut after being included in the Kraigg Brathwaite-led squad announced yesterday by the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel.

“I expect us to be very competitive against England. This should be a very exciting series, with a lot of players who are out to make their mark. We have a squad that has some

Medina Spirit's 2021 victory nullified after failed drug test

Scorpions hit 213 runs at an average of 53.25, including 127 against Barbados Pride at Kensington Oval last week, a performance which would have swayed selectors.

The Jamaican had played 15 Tests before being dropped following Sri Lanka’s tour of the Caribbean last April, after making his Test debut during TURN TO PAGE 31 ►

Dowrich to lead CWI President’s XI in warm-up match against England ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Experienced wicketkeeper/batsman Shane Dowrich has been named as captain of the CWI President’s XI that will face England in a four-day warm-up match ahead of next month’s Apex Test series.

Left-handed allrounder Raymon Reifer will be vice-captain for the match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) from March 1-4, the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel announced Tuesday.

SQUAD – Shane Dowrich (Captain), Raymon Reifer (Vice-Captain), Colin Archibald, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Bryan Charles, Shermon Lewis, Preston McSween, Wicketkeeper/batsman Shayne Moseley, Jeremy Solozano, Shamar Springer, Shane Dowrich Devon Thomas.

Medina Spirit's victory in the 2021 Kentucky Derby has been nullified nine months after the race took place

MEDINA Spirit's victory at the Kentucky Derby in 2021 has been nullified. The horse failed a drug test after winning the United States' most famous race at Churchill Downs and died of a heart attack in training in December.

Trainer Bob Baffert will miss this year's race after being suspended for 90 days, from March 8 until June 5, and fined $7,500 (£5,530).

Medina Spirit had originally delivered Baffert a record seventh triumph in North America's most prestigious race.

The three-year-old colt tested positive for 21 picograms of the anti-inflammatory drug betamethasone.

Baffert said he was "very disappointed in the ruling" which he insists "runs contrary to the scientifically proven facts". He believes the drug entered the Medina Spirit's system via an ointment.

Following Monday's ruling, Churchill Downs recognised the second-placed Mandaloun as the 2021 race winner, and congratulated trainer Brad Cox and jockey Florent Geroux.

"Winning the Kentucky Derby is one of the most exciting achievements in sports and we look forward to celebrating Mandaloun on a future date in a way that is fitting of this rare distinction," Churchill Downs said in a statement. (BBC Sport)

experienced players, as well as some exciting young players and we expect them to equip themselves well and do the job,” said lead selector the Most Hon. Dr Desmond Haynes.

Both Campbell and Phillip were impressive in the first two rounds of the current West Indies Championship The 28-year-old Campbell from Jamaica

US women's national team reach agreement with US soccer over equal pay UNITED States forward Alex Morgan says a "monumental step forward" has been taken after the women's national team (USWNT) reached agreement with governing body US Soccer on equal pay.

The players will receive $24m (£17.7m) and US Soccer has pledged equal pay for the

men's and women's teams across all competitions, including the World Cup. All 28 squad members filed a discrimination lawsuit in March 2019.

"It is an incredible day," Morgan told Good Morning America.

The two-time World Cup winner added: "This is just

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

The USA women's team won a fourth World Cup in 2019

such a monumental step forward in feeling valued, feeling respected and just mending our relationship with US Soccer that's really been full of

tension.

"It's great to take that step forward. I not only see this as a win for our team or women TURN TO PAGE 31 ► WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022