Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_20_04_2022

wednesday 20th april, 2022

No.106698

Positive outlook

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–– Guyana’s economy on track to grow 47.2 per cent, says IMF –– projects further economic growth of 34.5 per cent next year

Gillard gets land to expand –– hails Vice-President grape cultivation Jagdeo as a ‘man of his words’

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Qatari investors eye local opportunities 04 PAGE

An artist's impression of the 'Four Points' Hotel when completed

Works commence on multimillion-dollar ‘Four Points’ hotel Guyana ready to bolster relations with the 02 Philippines, Zimbabwe PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Guyana ready to bolster relations with the Philippines, Zimbabwe —says President Ali as High Commissioners from both countries accredited P R E S I D E N T D r. I rfaan Ali is of the view that partnerships with “like-minded countries” and institutions are key to achieving the sustain-

able development goals of eradicating poverty, ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture.

The Head of State made the foregoing observation about fostering closer ties with both the Republic of the Philippines and the Republic of Zim-

babwe while accrediting their High Commissioners to Guyana on Tuesday.

President Ali accepted the Letters of Credence from His Excellency Mario

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (fourth left) and Non-Resident Ambassador of the Philippines to Guyana Mario Chan (second right) with Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd (second left); Philippines Consul General to Guyana Manniram Prashad (left) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary Elisabeth Harper (right) (Office of the President photo)

Chan as the Non-Resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to Guyana, and the Letters of Commission from His Excellency Ignatius Graham Mudzimba as Non-Resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zimbabwe to Guyana.

He spoke about the potential of cooperation in agriculture and its importance to the countries at reference.

“My government is working towards expanding and diversifying all sectors of the economy, with special emphasis on agriculture... Agriculture is an important sector in your country’s economy; it is a driver of growth and development, and a significant employer. Guyana is keen to explore opportunities for cooperation in this area,” President Ali told Ambassador Chan.

The President also spoke about the importance of agriculture and food production with Ambassador Mudzimba, saying: “My government has placed a great emphasis on the transformation of our agriculture sector with a focus on diversification of food production, coupled with a focus on soil care. I believe that these are areas where Guyana and Zimbabwe can find synergies for

shared technologies.”

President Ali also told the Zimbabwean Ambassador that there is great scope for the two countries to “construct a practical framework to enhance bilateral cooperation in those areas where we could benefit from mutual expertise to aid in the development of particular sectors of our economies.”

Along with agriculture, the President said there is also potential for cooperation between Guyana and Zimbabwe in the education and tourism sectors.

“I also would like to encourage visits from Zimbabwean companies to explore joint ventures and investments in Guyana.

We also stand ready to enhance our collaboration with Zimbabwe at the multilateral level to advance the interests of our two countries and regions on issues high on the international agenda, particularly those relating to climate change,” President Ali said.

During his statement to Ambassador Chan, he also spoke about climate change and its devastating effect on the people of the Philippines.

“We will continue to impress on the necessity for support by the international community in helping small states to monitor, Continued on page 5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Guyana’s economic prospects remain positive

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— at the end of first quarter of 2022 — country projected to grow 34.5 per cent next year, according to IMF

EVEN as countries the world over continue to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine, the economic prospects for Guyana remain positive at the close of the first quarter of 2022, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The IMF, in its latest edition of the World Economic Outlook, which was released on Tuesday, related that global economic prospects have worsened significantly since the last World Economic Outlook forecast was published in January.

“At the time, we had projected the global recovery to strengthen from the second quarter of this year after a short-lived impact of the Omicron variant. Since then, the outlook has deteriorated, largely because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — causing a tragic humanitarian

crisis in Eastern Europe — and the sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia to end hostilities.

“This crisis unfolds while the global economy was on a mending path, but had not yet fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant divergence between the economic recoveries of advanced economies and emerging market and developing ones,” the IMF said.

In addition to the war, frequent and wider-ranging lockdowns in China — including in key manufacturing hubs — have also slowed activity there and could cause new bottlenecks in global supply chains. Higher, broader, and more persistent price pressures also led to a tightening of monetary policy in many countries.

Further, based on the IMF’s analysis, overall risks to economic prospects have risen sharply and policy

trade-offs have become ever more challenging.

“Beyond the immediate humanitarian impacts, the war will severely set back the global recovery, slowing growth and increasing inflation even further,” the financial institution lamented.

Guyana, though also being susceptible to the economic shocks that are affecting countries across the world, is positioned to maintain a positive economic

standing because of its burgeoning oil and gas sector, and prudent fiscal planning.

The country, according to the IMF, remains on course to achieving Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 47.2 per cent at the end of this year and a further 34.5 per cent at the end of 2023.

The World Bank, after assessing the economic performance of countries during the period 2019-2021, had announced recently that Guy-

ana recorded the highest cumulative economic growth in the Caribbean and Latin American region.

The international financial institution determined that the country recorded cumulative economic growth of 72.03 per cent, and the closest nation behind Guyana was Nicaragua, which recorded cumulative economic growth of 7.53 per cent.

With this rate of overall growth, Guyana ranks among the fastest growing economies worldwide.

The resilience of the country’s economy is being demonstrated as the nation continues to progress despite grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and, more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“Our economy is becoming stronger; it is rebounding from the two-year-long effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Businesses, both

local and foreign, are capitalising on the unfolding opportunities and, in the process, generating jobs and providing incomes for our citizens,” President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had said in a recent address to the nation.

Based on Budget 2022-the country’s largest to date -- the government intends to enhance its approach to stimulating growth in various economic sectors.

Moving ahead, growth this year would be primarily driven by the operations of ExxonMobil’s second Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the Liza Unity.

Outside of oil, non-oil growth, this year, is expected to be driven mainly by rebounds in rice growing and gold mining, and continued expansion in construction activity and wholesale and retail trade and repairs.

Many years later, Gillard would have sought the advice of many agriculturalists, but was told that the fruit could not be grown in the tropics, but rather in cool, temperate climes.

He was determined to prove them wrong, and after conducting extensive research, he discovered that the contributing factor for a successful grape harvest was the pH of the soil, which, in layman’s terms, is the alkalinity or acidity of the soil.

In the case of grapes, a pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is generally recommended.

Devin had expected the flowering of the vines after 24 months, but was pleasantly surprised that the vine flowered at just eight months,

followed by bunches of red Globes, a succulent, seeded variety of grape. The largest round berries of them all, Globes have a dark, ruby red colour, and are mildly sweet and flavourful when ripened.

Grapes have been known to prevent the hardening of the arteries, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, curb blood clotting and lower inflammation. Research has also indicated that grapes help reduce cholesterol by decreasing the absorption of the compound into the blood.

Among the many by-products of grapes are raisins, wine, juice, vinegar, oils, and sweet spreads such as jams, jellies and marmalade.

Gillard gets land to expand his vineyard

— hails Vice-President Jagdeo as ‘a man of his word’

By Jeune Vankeric DEVIN Gillard, a resident of Glasgow New Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, who cultivates grapes and other crops for a living, is a very happy man.

After many months of running around, some sevenand-a-half acres of land he had applied for to cultivate grapes was approved almost immediately when he raised the matter with Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who was part of a Cabinet outreach to Region Six just over a week ago.

“As a true leader, he is a man to his word; I have great respect for him,” Gillard said while seated in his vineyard on Monday. He was also in high praise for Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who helped to fast-track the process for him to acquire the land he’d applied for.

He recounted that following an earlier story carried

by the Guyana Chronicle about his grape farm, he received a telephone call from Vice-President Jagdeo, who complimented him for cultivating grapes in Guyana, and enquired from him if he needed land for expansion.

“I identified an area which was previously under cane cultivation not far from my home, as I have to be nearby to care for the plants.

In the meanwhile, I borrowed $4.5M and invested into the Jupiter, Viking and Fox grape cuttings from the United States of America. I also have Gala apple plants and Kiwis, which will be planted along the border of the vineyard. In addition, I have bought the galvanised wire for fencing and a solar electric fence to keep out animals. I was all set, just waiting for the land,” he told the Guyana Chronicle.

Gillard recalled that many tried to discourage him; persons who were initially tasked with assisting him

with his proposal, and so the process for the acquisition of the land was stymied.

“But I had the vision, and I was willing to run with it. I heard of the Cabinet outreach; I left my home on the East Bank of Berbice and travelled all the way to Corentyne to have an audience with Vice-President Jagdeo. I reminded him of his promise, and the next day, I got the word that I was waiting for.

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE “I am preparing for my third and fourth generation, also employment for the many single-parents around the community; they will be involved in the pruning and harvesting. Within three to five years, I will be producing enough to meet a national demand,” Gillard said.

Currently, he has Jupiter grapes, which will be fully ripe in a month, while the

Moon Drop grapes, called “Lady Finger” are in the earlier stages of growth.

Also known as the “Bee Man”, Gillard, who has no formal training in agriculture, two years ago singlehandedly started his cultivation with a few grape cuttings, brought by a friend from overseas.

A plot of land at his Lot 649 Glasgow New Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice home was prepared, and from then, there was no looking back. He successfully planted and reaped grapes in his backyard.

As a boy, Gillard fondly remembers a neighbour who would travel overseas and return with apples and grapes.

His family would be given an apple and four grapes, which had to be shared amongst his siblings.

Dissatisfied with having just one grape, he endeavoured to one day own a vineyard where he could have as many grapes as possible.

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guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, april 20, 2022

Qatari investors eye local opportunities

Representatives of the Qatari Investment Mission engaging senior government officials at the Office of the President, on Tuesday (Office of the President photo)

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali; Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar; Chief Executive Officer of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop and Director of Projects in the Office of the President, Marcia Nadir-Sharma, engage representatives of the Qatari Investment Mission, on Tuesday (Office of the President photo) PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and a team of high-level government officials, on Tuesday, met with a delegation from the Qatari Investment Mission to advance discussions on investment opportunities in Guyana.

The Qatari Investment Mission representatives were Group Chairman of Power International Holding, Moutaz Al Khayyat; Group Chief Venture Officer of Power International Holding, Ali Kazma and the company’s Chief Business Development Officer, Mazen Alsbeti.

The visiting team was accompanied by Ambassador George Hallaq and Andrew Hallaq.

Other members of Guyana’s team were Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar; Chief Executive Officer of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop and Director of Projects in the Office of the President,

April 16, 2022

G 06 11 17 20 26 28 13 April 13, 2022

I 6 9 15 22 25 26 12

19/04/22 - 11, 21, 22, 23, 24

19/04/22 - 0 9 5

19/04/22 - 3 7 9

Marcia Nadir-Sharma.

In 2020, President Ali had met with the Emir of Qatar, His Royal Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and discussed areas for collaboration in the agricultural sector through investments in the Halaal industry, expansion of the housing programme, the strengthening of diplomatic ties between the two countries, and support in other critical sectors including energy, oil and gas, services and infrastructure.

In 2019, Guyana and Qatar signed a Bilateral Air Services agreement which paved the way for future co-operation in investment, in trade, and air travel and also in the movement of people.

Notably, Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait are all major oil-producing countries and Guyana has had diplomatic ties with these counties since the 1990s.

With the announcement of its oil finds, Guyana is expected to be ‘on par’ with these countries, on a per-capita basis.

19/04/22- 4, 5, 7, 16, 17, 19, 21

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

GraceKennedy invests in data analytics firm

(Trinidad Express) JAMAICAN conglomerate GraceKennedy announced last week that it has made a private equity investment in a full-service research and data intelligence consultancy called Bluedot.

In a regulatory filing, GraceKennedy said Bluedot was founded by entrepreneur and information technologist, Larren Peart in 2016. The company uses data collection and analytics to inform business insights and decision-making, according to GraceKennedy’s notice.

“The agreement will see GraceKennedy and Peart incorporating a new data research and analytics company, which will trade under the Bluedot brand,” according to the notice.

Loop Jamaica quoted GraceKennedy’s group CEO, Don Wehby, as saying: “Our private equity investment in Bluedot will lay the foun-

BUSINESS DEAL: Group CEO of GraceKennedy, Don Wehby, (left) and founder and Managing Director of Bluedot, Larren Peart, at the signing of an agreement solidifying GraceKennedy’s private equity investment in Bluedot, a Jamaican data analytics and research firm (Loop Jamaica photo)

dation for it to become the Caribbean’s leading strategic insights consultancy.”

Wehby also told Loop Jamaica: “Data is one of the most valuable resources of

our modern digital age. We have all witnessed the way that the Covid-19 has accelerated digitalisation around the world, resulting in business become increasingly data

driven.

“We consider this a prime area for investment. Larren and Bluedot are well placed in the market and they have established a solid

Guyana ready to bolster...

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prevent and manage climate and disaster risks.”

STEADFAST EFFORTS Meanwhile, the President lauded the Philippines for its “steadfast efforts” in reducing COVID-19 through vaccination.

He commended the country’s drive for its contribution to the COVAX Advance Market commitment through GAVI, the vaccine alliance which serves as a platform for providing equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.

He also noted that in an effort to increase people-to-people contact, the Government of Guyana will examine the proposal for the conclusion of a partial visa waiver agreement for travel between Guyana and the Philippines.

According to Ambassador Chan, the Philippines is interested in further expanding cooperation in

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (centre) and Non-Resident Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Guyana Ignatius Graham Mudzimba with Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd (second left) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary Elisabeth Harper (right) (Office of the President photo)

the fields of hydropower, technology and the sugar industry.

President Ali was joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Elisabeth Harper for both accreditation ceremonies. (Office of the President)

track record and reputation for delivering services that meet the needs of the modern business.”

On Sunday, the Financial Gleaner reported that the private equity investment gives GraceKennedy a majority stake in the research company.

Peart told the publication that the investment by GraceKennedy gives Bluedot enough cash to execute on its long-time plan of extending its service offerings to markets like Guyana, Barbados, and The Bahamas, while boosting business in Trinidad & Tobago.

He expects to have a mix of virtual and brickand-mortar offices set up in Guyana, Barbados, and the Bahamas within the next three months, Peart told the Financial Gleaner.

“We already have em-

ployees in Trinidad & Tobago, so next, we will be looking at Barbados. Trinidad has a huge fast-moving consumer-goods market, and there is quite a bit of attention on Guyana now because of its oil,” he said.

GraceKennedy will not be involved in the day-to-day operation of the firm but will guide the business through board memberships. Peart will remain as managing director.

“This is a strategic partnership not just for both companies. For Bluedot, we will be leaning on GK’s corporate governance but will better position us for our upcoming IPO. I’ve also spoken a lot about expanding to the other parts of the Caribbean, and now that process is at a very advanced stage,” Peart told the Financial Gleaner.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Closing the Development Gap

AMERINDIANS are the first people to come to the shores of Guyana. All the other ethnic groups came and met them and despite attempts by early European colonisers to subdue them culturally and politically, the Amerindians held their own and are now an integral part of our Guyanese society.

It is a historical fact that the Amerindian people were neglected by the colonial administration and, later on, by the PNC regime which rigged its way to power for nearly three decades. Despite being catapulted to power in 1964 with the support of the United Force led by Peter D’Aguiar, the PNC, under Forbes Burnham, then started to marginalise Amerindians who were treated as second class citizens by the PNC-UF Coalition Government. It is no secret that during the

early 1960s, the majority of Amerindians supported the United Force due mainly to anti-communist hysteria generated against the PPP by the pro-business media and some sections of the church.

It did not take long before the United Force was unceremoniously kicked out of the coalition government after Peter D’Aguiar, who became Finance Minister, was unable to get explanations on how monies were spent. Millions of dollars could not be accounted for under his watch as finance minister. He resigned in disgust in 1967 after accusing the PNC of corruption and squandermania. He eventually resigned from politics after the PNC rigged all elections from 1968 to 1985. In the October 1992 general and regional elections, the PPP won with a comfortable majority with

significant Amerindian support. Amerindians for the most part drifted away from the United Force and shifted support to the PPP. Today, Amerindians are fully mainstreamed in the national development processes. One of the first executive actions taken by the new PPP/C administration was to establish a Ministry of Amerindian Affairs. Amerindians became an integral part of the decision-making processes, unlike what transpired under the previous PNC administration President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, immediately upon becoming President, committed his administration to ensuring that Amerindians are economically empowered and integrally involved in the decision-making process. In an address to the Regional Toshaos Meeting in September last year, the President

assured the gathering of Amerindian leaders that they will not be sidelined from the process of national development but rather be integral to that process. He emphasised that his administration is devoted to the principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) as it relates to policies that affect the well-being and rights of Indigenous Guyanese.

“We will foster Amerindian empowerment across all 10 of the country’s administrative regions.

We will continue to support your rights, including your just entitlement to Amerindian lands,” President Ali assured.

And in a recent visit to Region Nine, President Ali again reiterated that the government will ensure that residents of interior and hinterland communities receive the same benefits as citizens who live on the coastland.

“Our primary objective is to ensure the lives of all the people of our country are improved.

And whatever benefits on the coastland must be available for you, and we will ensure you too benefit.”

Already much progress has been made in that regard even though much more remain to be done. Decades of underdevelopment and neglect under the colonial and PNC administrations cannot be fixed overnight but the political will to do so is very much in evidence.

As pointed out by President Ali, this year Region Nine will see a rebuilding of its infrastructure and some $3.7 billion will be spent on hinterland roads and bridges which will open up new communities and new farmlands.

In fact, the government has already spent a historic sum of money in the

hinterland communities including $197 million in COVID-19 cash grant benefitting over 7,800 households; $604 million in old age pensions and $235 million in public assistance. In addition, every household will be the recipient of solar panels under a 30,000 solar panel initiative.

President Ali must be commended not only for his proactive leadership in connecting with people all across the country but also for giving a listening ear to Guyanese regardless of their political affiliation. This is indeed the hallmark of a President and an administration that cares for people and their well-being.

“We are on a journey to build a Guyana in which every single citizen, every single household, must experience,” President Ali assured.

A season to reflect and not inflict conflict

Dear Editor,

NOT so popular in Guyana, not highlighted or observed on a large scale, the important Jewish festival, referred to as Passover or what is known as Pesach in Hebrew, is being celebrated this year in Jewish communities throughout the world, commencing on the evening of April 15 and concluding on the evening of April 23.

Also referred to as The Festival of Freedom, this period commemorates the liberation of the Children of Israel who were led out of Egypt by Moses. This celebration goes back to 1300 BC according to The

Book of Exodus. History reveals that the Children of Israel have been in slavery for some 210 years. Jewish teachings reflect that God had promised to release them from this bondage, but the Pharaoh had denied Moses his bequest when the topic was broached.

There were 10 plagues on the land, the final claiming the lives of all the first-born Egyptians and animals.

The Israelites were told to sprinkle blood on the doorposts so that their homes will be passed over and their first-born saved. This final wrath proved effective for the transitioning of the Israelites from slavery to

freedom.

Part of the tradition is the participating meal (Seder), to remove all leaven from their possession for seven days, eating bitter herbs and matzah (flour and water mixed and baked before the dough can rise), drinking wine, retelling the story and singing.

It is also a pilgrim festival when Jews would make one of three a special effort to visit the Temple in Jerusalem, according to the commandments in the Torah. Also referred to as the Festival of Spring, it was an agricultural festival for production and harvesting when the Jews lived in ancient Palestine.

The significance of Passover symbolises hope and starting afresh for a new life. The remaining Jewish holidays are Purim, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah and Chanukah. The Hebrew greeting is “Chag Sameach” or “Chag Pesach Sameach”, meaning “Happy Passover Holidays.”

For the Christians, Jesus Christ is referred to as the “Lamb of God”, having shared the Passover meal (The Last Supper) with his apostles, and, being the fulfillment of the Passover. The 15th was Good Friday, in observance of the day Jesus Christ was nailed on the Cross. The period of Lent

ended on the 14th; this was also a time which included fasting and abstinence (the need to make a sacrifice and give up something of specific pleasure). Commencing with Ash Wednesday, the duration ends on Monday with the celebration of Easter. This four-day holiday weekend incorporates the Muslim sisters and brothers observing Ramadhan, the Holy Month of fasting from sunrise to sunset.

Fasting is one of the Pillars of Islam, the others being daily prayer, declaration of faith, charity and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The fasting period ends with the celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr. Saturday 16th,

Hindus celebrated Hanuman Jayanti, the adoration of paying homage to Shri Hanuman Ji’s manifestation on Dharti Mata, mother earth. Shri Hanuman is revered by 108 names and symbolises courage, bravery, strength, innocence, compassion, selflessness, humility and wisdom.

He is the doorway to Prabhu Shri Ram and is depicted as a strong and influential character in the Ramayana and also, reference is made to his dynamic embodiment in the Mahabharata.

Will the perpetual influence of the significance of the religious season blossom into embracing all the Continued on page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

New Forest Village to get potable water, electricity

THE village of New Forest, East Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), will soon benefit from firsttime access to potable water and electricity.

This was according to Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, who led an outreach to the village on Tuesday.

Minister Rodrigues’ visit was a follow-up to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s meeting held at the Rose Hall Welfare Ground as part of a Cabinet outreach last Monday.

The minister was accompanied by Regional Chairman, David Armogan, and a team of technical officers from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and the Ministry of Public Works.

New Forest is a cash-crop farming community, which is sparsely populated with about 20 households.

For decades, the residents have been without potable water, and are mostly dependent on the Canje Creek, while some practise rain-water harvesting. Some of the residents also have generators for electricity.

Minister Rodrigues assured residents that a thorough assessment will be done immediately by GWI to bring relief in the short, as well as long–term.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues (DPI photo)

The possibility of reviving an old existing well will also be explored. Discussions will be held with the GuySuCo Rose Hall Estate on the possibility of extending electricity to the area.

During her remarks, Minister Rodrigues restated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihood of its people by ensuring that basic necessities are available in every village, regardless of location.

“The government is serious about ensuring that the people are taken care of. You hear a lot about oil and gas and development coming to our country and the President talked about the developments coming to your region

like the new airport and the stadium. And while we celebrate those developments, we want to make sure the people at the community level are comfortable,” the minister said.

She added that the exercise was necessary, and was part of a countrywide consultation aimed at getting first–hand knowledge of issues affecting citizens to develop relevant policies and programmes.

Minister Rodrigues and the team also met with residents of Gangaram and Betsy Ground to address similar issues. That meeting was held at the Betsy Ground Primary School.

A season...

From page 6 meaningful attributes ascribed and prescribed in all the holy books, manifest into reality and be applicable in our daily lives, especially for the leaders in the political arena in this beloved country we love as one Guyana? Will there be the pathway of untruth to truth and darkness to light? How many will uphold the grace of honesty and discard dishonesty?

The advent of selflessness and discarding selfishness is being preached at this time but, will there be the practice of this contribution towards the welfare of this country so that transparency reflects the heart, mind and soul of all? The liberation of freeing oneself form bondage is advocated, do we want to continue to tie ourselves to the wick-

ed and evil ways of the past to inflict conflict, or, announce the denouncement of unrighteousness to pronounce righteousness?

Like the Pharaoh, who will choose to shackle a nation to duress and hold the people to ransom by feeding them with lies and deceits rather than, like Moses, providing a freedom of alternative to decide on facts and figures and a way to salvation? Isn’t this an ideal time to gladly accept the opportunity to atone for dishonourable behaviour in and outside of one’s home?

Why should we still resort to threats and violence when we do not achieve any gains by devious means? To deliberately block the progressive projects ascribing towards the rapid development of this nation heralds the infamous parables of the unheroic deeds of devils

and demons described in the stories of ancient times.

Perhaps the swearing into office by holding the holy books to uphold law and order will provide a change in approach with open eyes rather than close minds, to avoid bringing disrepute to public domain! Let’s hope this traditional festive season will proclaim a change of heart and see the will of the people being displayed in the efforts and advocacy of the leaders in words, deeds and actions. Can we separate the sweet from the bitter for the better of all together? May that unseen one bless this country so that all may survive equally with a breath of fresh air which is still available free.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues speaking with residents (DPI photo)

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guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, april 20, 2022

CCJ and the court of public opinion (Part VI): Politicians being brought to book

By Earl Bousquet

HEADLINES like this will always attract readers and viewers everywhere, but since it’s not a regular story, anywhere, it remains off front-page headlines; and the topic is simply taboo among

politicians, and equally rare in court rulings.

And even when it happens, like twice in the last four months in Saint Lucia, it’s not reported like that.

Many everywhere dearly wish (and some actually dream about it) to

see politicians being jailed by the courts for committing crimes everyone else will be jailed for, but it’s actually happening in the Caribbean.

In July 2021, former Chief Minister of Montserrat David Brant was sentenced to 15 years on

two sex charges involving ‘under-aged’ girls.

Earlier, in April 2021, Donville Inniss, a former Barbados parliamentarian and Cabinet Minister, was sentenced by a US federal court in New York to two years in jail for laundering bribe payments from a Barbados-based insurance company through banks on Long Island.

But that’s not enough for those concerned about how public funds are managed, and wish for and dream of wider investigative nets and more prosecutions.

To them, politicians aren’t jailed often enough either, for bringing their offices into disrepute, many opting to resign or pay fines, or otherwise pay their dues to avoid doing time.

However, three cases in Saint Lucia’s courts are attracting related attention, with two already resulting in the conviction of former Opposition Leaders, and a third being processed against the current Opposition Leader.

In the case against Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet involving public funds, the Attorney-General’s Office has revived longstanding efforts to recover outstanding sums in the decade-old matter.

Chastanet hasn’t denied the charge of Malfeasance in Public Office, instead arguing that as Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, it didn’t make financial sense to spend $250,000 (costs incurred to date) to recover $38,000 paid to the popular Caribbean band, Third

World, to perform on his 2011 election campaign platform.

With two politicians currently doing time at the island’s correctional facility, Saint Lucians are, naturally, watching Chastanet’s case.

But, listening to him talking to reporters about it, Chastanet sounds not the least bit worried.

Last week, he said he was “Sorry for Marcus…” in relation to the sentencing of former Opposition Leader Marcus Nicholas on a tax fraud charge, but also pointed out it was more of a personal than a political matter.

But Chastanet loudly lauded the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for having see page 10

Pedestrian dies in Mon Repos accident

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

PEDESTRIAN Rada Panday, 41, was killed in an accident on Monday evening after she was struck down while crossing the Mon Repos Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Panday, a mother of two lived at Lot 136 3rd St. Mon Repos North, East Coast Demerara.

According to Police Headquarters, the accident involved a motor car (PAB 5454) owned and driven by Randolph Hunte, a 34-yearold Civil Engineer of Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje Berbice.

Police said enquiries disclosed that Hunte was proceeding west along the

southern driving lane on the southern carriage way on Mon Repos Public Road.

Hunte alleged that while proceeding in that direction, the pedestrian crossed the road from north to south when his wife who was the occupant in the front passenger seat of the car shouted at him to ‘look’. Moments later there was a heavy impact on the front right side portion of his motor car.

As a result of the collision, police said the pedestrian fell onto the road surface where she received injuries about her body.

Rada Panday was subsequently picked up in an unconscious condition and

placed into an ambulance. She was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where she was pronounced dead by a doctor on duty.

Police said that the motor car was lodged to be examined by a licensing and certifying officer and a notice of intended prosecution was served on the driver. A breathalyser test conducted on the driver found no trace of alcohol in his system.

The driver is currently in police custody assisting with the investigation.

Panday’s body is at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting autopsy as investigations continue into the accident.

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guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, april 20, 2022

CCJ and the court of public opinion ... from page 8

successfully prosecuted a two-decades-old Child Abuse case.

And now, he’s lodged a case in Saint Lucia’s High Court, seeking a judicial review of the conclusion of an outstanding 2015 matter involving a Customs & Excise Department case against former Saint Lucia High Commissioner in London Dr. Ernest

Hilaire, now the island’s Deputy Prime Minister.

Chastanet’s administration pursued Dr. Hilaire, legally and politically, ever since the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) lost the 2016 elections; and the Comptroller of Customs seized the Land Rover Discovery SUV involved, just ahead of the July 2021 elections.

Chastanet, also Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), claims the SUV Dr. Hilaire drives was bought in London in the High Commission’s name, but imported to the island in Dr. Hilaire’s name; and that the charges against him followed two years of the ex-diplomat failing to provide required proof of purchase.

Despite the UWP’s best efforts, the case wasn’t heard before the July 2021 General Elections, and the matter eventually went to Arbitration.

The July elections resulted in Regime Change and the Comptroller of Customs withdrew the charges five months later, in December 2021.

Four months later, on

April 5, 2022, Chastanet launched the 17-page Application for Judicial Review of the withdrawal of the case during Arbitration, claiming that the new Comptroller has not given any reason, to him or the public.

Accusing the Comptroller and the Attorney-General’s Office of “serious violations of the rules of natural justice and due process of law”, and not following the Customs Control and Management Act, the Opposition Leader is asking the High Court to quash the Comptroller’s withdrawal.

Lawyers in-the-know say it’s so important the UWP break Dr. Hilaire’s back with this SUV matter, they swear that if the High Court doesn’t give him what he’s asked for, Chastanet will be prepared to put the matter in the hands of “the Law Lords” of the British Privy Council.

And that will surely again bring into focus the ongoing important discussion about Saint Lucia’s decision to join the Appellate Jurisdiction of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

The Privy Council’s reputation for taking a legal eternity to hear Ca-

ribbean cases has allowed it to also be used as a maximum-delay tool by litigants who can afford, as well as by politicians seeking to cripple their local opponents.

The Privy Council is unlikely to hear such a case before the CCJ becomes Saint Lucia’s Final Court of Appeal, and, if so, the position would be interesting thereafter.

Given the long-standing related hostility between Chastanet and Dr. Hilaire and the UWP leadership’s gut feeling that they have what it’ll take to roast him in earnest, the matter is not likely to end up in a Cold Case file.

Instead, this latest chapter only adds one more to an ongoing story about the politics of pursuing politics with only parties and politicians in mind, instead of being guided by principles, and with no end in near sight.

No date has yet been set for the judicial review of the SUV case, or for the first hearing of the revived malfeasance case.

But, whenever and wherever it ends, it’s sure to feature as another hot precedent in future cases before the CCJ, and the region’s Court of Public Opinion.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Five-year strategic plan to strengthen mechanisms for gender equality

THE Women and Gender Equality Commission (W&GEC) has outlined a five-year (2021-2026) strategic plan, which includes a comprehensive process through which the commission can advocate and support “a gender just and equitable society in Guyana.”

The W&GEC, which falls

It was adopted by consensus in 1995 following the mobilisation of over 40,000 government delegates, experts and civil society representatives at the Fourth World Conference on Women, the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action embodies the commitment of the international community to achieve gender equality and to pro-

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, outlines a number of objectives in the plan, among them, advocacy for gender justice through concrete national and community-based actions and collaborative national and local actions, which will promote gender and social justice.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, during her address at the Beijing+25 Fourth World Conference on Women, had said: “Even the best plans and policies cannot create change unless they are implemented. The Government of Guyana understands that and that ‘women’s rights are human rights’ and we commit to accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.”

According to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission of Eastern Asia, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action is described as a visionary agenda for the empowerment of women. It is also one of the reference frameworks to analyse the situation of women around the world and to assess the efforts of States in support of women’s empowerment.

vide better opportunities for women and girls.

The W&GEC highlights the need for strengthening legislative, policy and investigative capacity. This would be done by keeping the legislative and policy environment under scrutiny through partnerships with relevant stakeholders with legal competencies so that informed recommendations could be made to the National Assembly.

The Commission also proposes to strengthen its investigations and complaints mechanism with the allocation of the necessary resources to address needs as they arise. Further, it is advancing efforts to build the human and financial capacity.

As it relates to Guyana’s progress towards achieving gender equality, Minister Persaud said Guyana has eliminated gender disparity in primary and secondary education, and is striving towards parity at the tertiary level.

“Teenage mothers are re-integrated into the education system with parallel programmes for those pursuing non-formal education.

We have also intensified our focus on our indigenous girls and girls living in rural

communities to ensure that they have equal opportunities,” she had highlighted at the Fourth World Conference on Women.

She noted, too, that Guyana is putting economic value to unpaid domestic and care work and encouraging healthier partnerships with men and boys, especially in terms of shared household work.

Childcare assistance is also offered to essential workers to help women participate equally and competitively in the workforce.

The strategic plan is built on five pillars: access, equity, economic justice, participation, and human rights. These pillars are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) five and ten,

which speak to gender equality and reduction of inequality within and among countries.

The W&GEC says social justice will be promoted through strategic collaborations and initiatives will be designed to target the most vulnerable and disadvantaged group.

This year, the Human Services Ministry has been

allocated $30 billion, which, the minister said, will be utilised to improve the various departments within the Human Services Ministry, to enhance the livelihood of citizens.

Focus would also be placed on eliminating gender-based violence in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Health Ministry pushing to increase vaccine uptake for adolescents

SCHOOLS are expected to be opened next week across the country and the Ministry of Health is expected to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to increase vaccine uptake in children ages 12 to 17.

This was revealed

by Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony during his COVID-19 update on Tuesday where he noted that there is a lot more work to be done as it relates to vaccination within this age group.

“I’m hoping that with

school reopening shortly that more parents will give permission for their child to get vaccinated,” he said.

Dr Anthony added that health authorities have been talking with Ministry of Education officials in order to promote school-based vaccination programmes.

As a result, he noted that prior to schools being closed for the Easter Holiday, schools had sent out letters for parents to sign giving the relevant permission for

their child/children to be inoculated.

“Hopefully when school resumes, we will be able to get those permission slips so that we can organise those vaccination within the schools,” the Health Minister stated.

Meanwhile, he noted that as of April 19, a total of 34,416 adolescents or persons between the age of 12 and 17 have received vaccines while some 27,166 have received second doses.

Motorcyclist killed in Ogle Access Road crash

ALEX Amsterdam, 22, of Sparendaam Squatting Area, East Coast Demerara (ECD), died Monday night, after his motorcycle crashed into a vehicle with registration number PRR 8717 on the Ogle Access Road, ECD.

Dead: Alex Amsterdam

He was reportedly heading east along the Rupert Craig Highway when a motor car heading south along the Ogle Road at the intersection collided with him.

The 35-year-old male driver is in police custody assisting with investigations. Police said that when Amsterdam collided with the car his head slammed onto the roadway.

An ambulance was summoned and Amsterdam was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Fire prevention inspections targeting public, private residences

FIRE Prevention inspections are being conducted throughout the country by the Guyana Fire Service, targeting both public and private occupancies.

This was according to Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, in response to questions in the National Assembly.

The minister said during those inspections, recommendations are penned to the occupants of the buildings to install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and construct fire emergency plans, and designate an appropriate area away from the respective

The rationale is to have building practitioners, consultants and home owners stay within the framework of the mentioned regulations.

The Home Affairs Minister was also asked if consideration has been given to establishing a mechanism to examine all aspects related to fire safety, review of existing systems, inclusive of building codes, assessment of response mechanisms, and remedial actions, as well as a review of the available equipment and the human resource capacity.

In his written response, Minister Benn said that while Guyana does not have stan-

Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn

premises, upwind, as assembly points.

He noted that standards were developed for establishing and enforcing, as it relates to building construction in Guyana. Such standards for buildings are to ensure that buildings are safe, and have means of escape and ample fire emergency systems in place.

dardised building codes, a proposal was prepared and sent to the Office of the President last year for perusal and approval.

Minister Benn said: “The National Fire Advisory Board, which comprises nine appointed members, was given the responsibility to review and further implement standards and regulations to suit

our local conditions. The Board convened April last and has been active ever since.”

The Board comprises members of the Guyana Fire Service, National Bureau of

Standards, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Central Housing and Planning Authority, Ministry of Human Service and Social Security, Mayor and City

Council, Guyana Water Inc, and the Environmental Protection Agency among other agencies.

In relation to training, Minister Benn related that

members of the Guyana Police Force, as part of their basic training, are trained to respond to emergencies, including those for the occurrence of fire. (DPI)

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No sweeter business

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

— embracing beekeeping as a livelihood in the Gambia’s dryland forests

(FAO) THEY are dotted with riverine vegetation, palm and hardwood trees. They are speckled with salt flats, savanna and mangrove creeks.

At the first glance, the forests and the woodlands of the Gambia, tinged in different shades of green, look menacing and breathtaking in equal measure.

Adorned with an array of prominent baobabs, striking silk-cotton trees and jades of mangrove forests found both far inland and along the humid banks

of the river Gambia, the country holds 480,000 hectares of forests with unseen promise.

These forests and woodlands have, however, seen swift depletion due to a rapidly increasing population as well as unsustainable resource extraction and uncontrolled forest fires. The growing rural population in this West African nation has struggled with poverty and with sustainably managing these dryland forests while relying on them for their

livelihoods and food security.

Through a flagship programme spearheaded by FAO and the Gambia’s Department of Forestry, the “Community-based Sustainable Dryland Forest Management” project has outfitted groups of community beekeepers, known locally as Honey Enterprise Groups, with beekeeping equipment such as beehives, uniforms, boots, gloves, uniforms and hive tools.

With the support of FAO

through this Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded project, the Honey Enterprise Groups are constructing beehives in the forest to harvest honey for their livelihoods.

“I would have never thought that our dream of implementing our honey enterprise development plan would come to fruition,” said community beekeeper, Kombeh Njie, as she and her team install 40 beehives at an apiary in Jiffarong village in the

With bees and beehives dependent on forest settings, communities are more aware of how protecting these resources are also good for their livelihoods (FAO photo)

Lower River Region in the south of the country.

She added: “Although there have been numerous talks about forest enterprise development in the past, it is only with the current support from the GEF project that our community has had any tangible opportunity to improve our incomes and enhance our livelihoods through honey production. This has indeed changed our lives.”

Members of the Honey Enterprise Groups recently constructed 205 beehives in the nation through a ‘Cash for Work’ initiative supported by the project. The Natural Resource Consulting, a local non-governmental organisation and one of the project’s implementing partners, in collaboration with the National Beekeepers Association of the Gambia trained the groups on the construction of beehives.

FAO and the Gambia’s Forestry Department plan to further scale up the honey business throughout the country to provide employment opportunities.

“High levels of deforestation and land degradation in the region caused mainly by human activities are contributing to droughts, erratic rainfall, disasters, poverty and food insecurity,” said Alpha Mariam Khan, the District Chief of Kuntaya, one of the communities in the North Bank Region of the country where the project is being implemented.

“The honey enterprise initiative provides an opportunity to contribute to the sustainable management of the dryland forests, as forest conservation is our collective responsibility. I call upon people of our district to make good use of the opportunity for the benefit of the present and future generations,” he added.

“Once these beehives are all colonised, the income stream of the beekeepers will increase through the sale of honey and its byproducts. The project will enhance their resilience to possible climate shocks while they will be contributing to forests and biodiversity conservation,” Sambou Nget, FAO’s GEF Project Coordinator said.

“There is already a very high demand for honey and honey byproducts for both human consumption and industrial use at the national and global levels. This creates a good market,” he added.

A total of 10,567 people, approximately 50 per cent wom-

en and 50 per cent men, in 18 communities in the Gambia will benefit from this initiative.

Jarra Njie, a female member of the community, said: “Before I used to depend only on seasonal agricultural production to generate income but with the introduction of beekeeping in my community and training provided through the project on value addition to honey products, I now make body cream from beeswax which I sell to supplement my income.”

Desertification and land degradation are major environmental issues faced in the Gambia. This is highly pronounced in the regions north of the Gambia River.

Dryland forests in the country play a pivotal role in halting desertification.

Though the forestry sector in the Gambia is reported to contribute to about only 1.2 per cent of the national Gross Domestic Product, it holds great socio-economic significance to rural livelihoods.

The project’s overall objective is to halt environmental degradation and the growing threat of desertification in the Gambia because of continued deforestation. The project helps with the legal procedures for community ownership of forests and empowers community members with the skills and knowledge necessary to sustainably manage their natural resources and conserve biodiversity.

“The FAO-GEF forestry project is indeed a blessing for the farmers, livestock and the forests,” said Tara Bah, President of the Joint Sakuru Daala Forest Park Management Committee and a member of the honey enterprise group.

Bah added: “Our forest was saved from bushfires in 2020 thanks to the training the forest park rangers received from the project. The honey enterprise initiative, in particular, will boost households’ food security, nutrition and income.”

FAO works with the Gambia to diversify agriculture, increase fisheries production and improve nutrition while encouraging the sustainable management of natural resources. Projects in the country aim to strengthen the food and agriculture sector to provide livelihoods while supporting communities in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Fibre Tech first company to receive ‘Made in Guyana’ mark

FIBRE Tech Industrial Plastics (FTIP) located at Agriculture Road, Triumph Village, East Coast Demerara, on Tuesday, became the first Guyanese company to achieve certification under the Guyana National Bureau of Standards’ (GNBS) Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme.

This company is now authorised by the GNBS to affix the Made in Guyana Certification Mark to several of its fibre-glass products including its shower units, kitchen units, bathroom units, outdoor furniture and play equipment.

At the certification ceremony held at FTIP’s location, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, congratulated the management and staff of Fibre Tech Industrial Plastics for achieving this milestone.

She also encouraged private sector companies like FTIP to buy into the Government of Guyana’s plan and to aspire for standards.

Executive Director (ag) of the GNBS, Ramrattie Karan, in her remarks, highlighted that the bureau has worked with several stakeholders to formalise the mark which will boost Guyana’s local content.

Karan said that by using the mark, manufacturers will be able to promote brand recognition and increase competitiveness for their products certified under the programme.

Managing Director of FTIP, Somat Ali, thanked GNBS for giving his company the opportunity to demonstrate quality and he encouraged other manufacturers to apply to be a part of the programme.

Ali added that achieving and maintaining standards is the di-

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, presents the certificate to Managing Director FTIP, Somat Ali

rection for local companies to go in, so as to enhance their competitiveness and to demonstrate that Guyanese are capable of making good quality products.

First Vice-President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Ramsay Ali, also congratulated FTIP for being the first to be certified under the Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme.

Ramsay said: “The Mark is a good thing, and it is good to have local products carry the seal, ‘Made in Guyana’.”

He added that the GMSA will encourage its members to apply for the mark and have their products certified.

The Made in Guyana Certification Mark is a prestigious mark, which was unveiled by First Lady, Mrs. Arya Ali, at the GNBS’ National Quality Awards Ceremony in October 2021.

It is a registered mark that aims to provide recognition to locally manufactured products on the local and international markets and is a signature of quality for authentic Guyanese products.

As part of the requirements

Dharm Shala celebrating 101 years of selfless service to nation

THE Dharm Shala (Home of Benevolence for all Races), on Thursday will be celebrating 101 years of selfless service to the nation.

The Dharm Shala in Georgetown has been in existence for 101 years while the branch in Berbice was established 80 years ago.

The benevolent home, in a release, said it is proud to be involved in humanitarian char-

tioned our minds to continue this most humanitarian charity founded on divine inspiration,” the non-governmental organisation said, adding: “We thank Almighty God for giving us the perception and wisdom to recognise the dilemma and urgent needs of those who seek our help whilst facing the vicissitudes of life.”

It also expressed gratitude to all its donors, however big

ity, pointing out that its objectives have remained unchanged for all its years of existence.

“From reports received from other parts of the world, we can only conclude that God has condi-

or small.

“The Dharm Shala ‘kitchen fires’ burn 365 days of the year, never stopping.

No one ever goes to bed hungry,” the release concluded.

Managing Director of FTIP, Somat Ali, signs the Terms and Conditions for ‘Made in Guyana’ certification

to become certified, manufacturers are required to use at least 60 per cent raw materials from Guyana and to employ 70 per cent Guyanese staff.

The Made in Guyana certification is valid for one year and will be monitored through surveillance visits by the GNBS to ensure the approved quality is maintained.

Applications are open for local manufacturers interested in getting their products certified. To kick-start the process, persons could contact the Certification Services Department on 219-0064 (extension 66) or email certification@gnbsgy. org.

Rafeek Khan returns as GMSA President — following election of new board of directors

16

MANAGING Director of Woods Direct, Rafeek Khan, has retained his position as President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), following the association’s elections on Tuesday.

President of GMSA, Rafeek Khan

According to a press release from GMSA, Khan, who was unopposed, will lead a newly elected 13-member board of directors throughout the fiscal year 2022-2023.

He will be supported

by Chief Executive Of-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

First Vice-President of GMSA, Ramsay Ali

ficer (CEO) of Sterling, Ramsay Ali, who will serve as First Vice-President and Chairman of the agro-processing sub-sector; Dr. Vishnu Doerga of ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. as Second Vice-President, and Chief Financial Officer of Demer-

reflect agro-processing and agriculture as separate sectors.

The association has also established an Information Communications & Technology (ICT) sub-sector and merged forestry and mining under one heading, extractive indus-

GMSA’s Second VicePresident, Dr. Vishnu Doerga

Third Vice-President and treasurer of GMSA, Vasudeo Singh

ara Distillers Limited, Vasudeo Singh, as Third Vice-President and treasurer.

Khan, in delivering brief remarks to the new board, expressed his gratitude for being re-elected to serve once more as president.

He said: “I am humbled by the opportunity to serve you and the invaluable GMSA membership for a second term. I have no doubt that this year will be even more dynamic and progressive for the GMSA.” Khan further said that it was his vision to create a dynamic and progressive GMSA by ensuring greater representation and maximising opportunities for the membership of the association.

He underscored the importance of pub lic-private partnerships in creating and enabling, cohesive and conducive environments.

The sub-sectors within the GMSA have been re-aligned and will

tries.

This, Khan said, will ensure members receive maximum benefits especially at a time when Guyana is reaping the benefits of its oil and gas sector.

He stressed the importance of joint inter-ministerial working groups and how those have aided the GMSA. On this point, Khan said he hopes to engage more ministries in the future to further enhance the work of the GMSA. As an addition, a trade and investment committee will be set up within the GMSA to assist in the establishment and strengthening of trade relations between Guyana and other countries.

“This committee will also help to foster opportunities for investments across all our sectors by seeking out more non-traditional financing,” Khan said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Works commence on multimilliondollar ‘Four Points’ hotel

By Jarred Liddell

JUST under a week after the new four-lane Mandela-Eccles Road was opened to the public, preparatory works have commenced for the laying of the foundation for the 150-room Four Points

by Sheraton–Marriott hotel.

The Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that following the land clearing stages of the project, which is currently ongoing at the Houston site just off the new four-lane highway, the foundation for the multi-

or relax.

An extension of the lobby, the Bistro Terrace, will feature a community fire pit and upgraded outdoor seating area.

“The Bistro provides guests with day and night dining options through fresh, seasonal menu items for breakfast and dinner, coffee, and premium wine, beer and cocktails,” the company said.

Apart from those features, there are also plans to establish spacious meeting spaces and a convention centre, to meet market demands. There are

Work ongoing at the site for the ‘Four Points’ by Sheraton – Marriott hotel, in the Houston area just off the new MandelaEccles four-lane highway (Adrian Narine photo)

million-dollar facility will be laid, paving the way for further development.

The company undertaking this project, Caribbean Green Building Inc., envisages increased economic activities and opportunities with the new four-lane road.

The local company, in its project scope, had related: “We are going to introduce elevated amenities like the Bistro Bar (a fast, casual restaurant) and collaborative lobby spaces; a sophisticated yet comfortable environment with an enduring, classic sensibility.”

According to the project scope, the developer also plans to offer an arrival experience which includes an optional porte cochère – a covered entrance which is large enough for vehicles to pass through– and enhanced lighting.

Aside from a unique entrance, the main attractions include modern rooms which feature wide, comfortable sleeper sofas and framed headboard, a luggage drop, hospitality cabinet and outlets where most needed.

Additionally, there will be integrated walk-in showers, 55inch flat-panel televisions and in-room refrigerators.

When outside of their rooms, guests will be able to relax in the lobby, which would be focused on an elevated evening experience with special seating options to work

also plans to have 1,000 square feet of space for cardio, stretching and strength activities; this would be supplemented by an outdoor pool and tennis court.

Within a month of the government being in office, Expressions of Interest were sent out for internationally branded hotels to be built in the country.

Since then, there have already been sod-turning exercises for a number of new hotels, with two having taken place close to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The aim, according to local authorities, is to have at least 2,000 hotel rooms available for visitors and to accompany the anticipated growth in the local economy.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, had said that moving forward and embracing this potential growth and development would require transition, not just physically, but also in the way people act, think, celebrate Guyana and conduct business.

“We have to transition to create the transformation we want. It is not only physical, it is the human transformation, the way of thinking, acting, celebration of country, the way we do business and organisational culture. It has to be incorporated into every aspect of our lives and every level of service has to be transformed.

It should be something to take us to optimisation,” President Ali said in a previous report.

Guyana, with its newfound oil wealth and thriving productive sectors, is on the cusp of economic transforma-

tion and has already received the title of “investment capital” of the region and possibly the world.

Positioning ahead of this economic ascension is essential, since it is only through this that businesses and in-

dividuals would be able to capitalise on the opportunities which would accrue to Guyana.

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Gold miner remanded for allegedly killing co-worker

A 29-YEAR-OLD gold miner, Romel Pritchard, was remanded to prison, last Thursday, for allegedly fatally stabbing 21-yearold, Roy Harry, during an argument at New Star Back dam, Baramita, Region

One (Barima-Waini).

Pritchard, of Barimanobo Village, Mabaruma, Region One, appeared before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he was accused of committing the

act.

Pritchard was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that he murdered Harry, his co-worker.

He will return to court on May 3.

According to police re-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

ports, Pritchard and Harry worked together at a mining camp.

It is alleged that, on the day in question, the two men were consuming alcohol which eventually led to an argument over a female ac-

quaintance.

The disagreement reportedly resulted in a fight between the men.

It is alleged that Pritchard wielded a knife against Harry, and fatally stabbed him in

his chest.

According to reports, Pritchard was later arrested by police along a trail at Baramita, while attempting to escape.

DECEASED: Roy Harry

Businessman remanded for alleged cocaine trafficking CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday remanded a 55-year-old businessman to prison for allegedly trafficking $2.4 million worth of cocaine.

Keith King, of Bel Air Avenue, Lamaha Gardens, Georgetown was hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and charged with narcotics Keith King trafficking.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on April 16, 2022 at BelAir Avenue, he had 2.292 kilograms of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

King was remanded to prison, and will return to court on May 10.

According to a release from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the operation was conducted at a Bel Air Avenue residence, where two parcels of cocaine were found.

King was arrested and taken to the headquarters of CANU, where a test was reportedly done on the two parcels. The CANU further reported that the substance tested positive for cocaine, and carried a street value of $2.4 million.

According to CANU, King is no stranger to the law, as in 2013, he was charged with narcotics trafficking after cocaine was found in a shipment of lumber.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Labour Ministry strengthens partnership with police force —stakeholders sign two agreements to train youths and retired officers

THE Ministry of Labour and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Tuesday, signed two agreements, which will set the basis for training of youths in vulnerable communities and retired officers of the force.

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, said that the youth-focused agreement is intended to equip persons with skills and knowledge to become employable or entrepreneurs.

The GPF’s presence, he said, is needed as the force has already established relationships with vulnerable

co-op department co-operates with the police as they have a co-op society or I should say a credit union and, so that is the kind of relationship we want to develop going forward,” Minister Hamilton said.

This long-term collaboration, the minister said, is in keeping with efforts to provide training to citizens to create a skilled workforce to assist in the country’s development.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, said that the partnership was aligned with the force’s 2022-

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton (R) and Police Commissioner (ag) Clifton Hicken sign the agreements (DPI photo)

communities to assist the ministry in identifying social issues.

A similar programme has been held in the Kaneville community which is located behind the Grove Housing Scheme, on the East Bank of Demerara.

“We are attempting to have a holistic arrangement among the Ministry of labour, BIT [Board of Industrial Training] and the police force. Two aspects the MoUs revolve around… the training and reskilling of persons in troubled communities in conjunction with the police force and the Ministry of Labour, Board of Industrial Training that will be involved,” Minister Hamilton said.

Those who complete this training will then be given the opportunity to utilise the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency.

Beyond training programmes, the second agreement would allow the ministry’s Co-op Department to partner with the police force to strengthen the duties of its co-operative society to secure the members’ interests.

“It will deal with how the

2026 strategic plan, which is aimed at creating a more skilled and professional police force.

“We attempt to use what is available to us in terms of skill set, and we call it vocational training skill. Whenever we go into the community, we are preparing them for the field of work and so this by itself will add value to the community,” Hicken said.

He added: “[This initiative] is going to change the concept of the press and stigma and so it will encourage youths to be focused on more important issues that they can be involved in that can develop Guyana.”

About 12 policing districts will play a role in this initiative.

The public will also be kept informed of which community will be benefitting from the training initiative via a monthly report.

A foundation will also be established to create a more transparent and sustainable way for the youths to benefit.

Funded by the private sector, it will comprise members of co-operative societies, and the media fraternity among

other prominent community figures.

Hicken said that officers will also benefit from the training programmes to assist in the maintenance of their machinery.

Additionally, the Labour Ministry is exploring options to provide Occupational Safety and Health training to officers to address work-related deaths and incidents. (DPI)

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton (centre); acting Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken (second left); Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag), Calvin Brutus (left); Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Labour, Bishram Kuppen (second right) and Board of Industrial Training (BIT)’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn (DPI photo)

20

Three lucky GTT winners get 300K in groceries

GTT in collaboration with Bounty Supermarket during the Easter season afforded three finalists in its Easter promotion the opportunity to win a supermarket sweep, a release from the company said.

Marianne Henry and her family will have a thrilling Easter season and beyond, after winning $150,000 in groceries and household items during GTT’s ‘Egg-citing’ Easter Sweepstakes held on Thursday last.

According to Marianne’s daughter, Jada Fernadez, who represented her at the sweepstake, receiving the call from GTT was an unimaginable surprise that has made a difference in their lives.

Jada was allotted 60

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

seconds to dash through the isles at Bounty’s Supermarket, stocking up her trolley with $150,000 worth of groceries.

During her sweepstake, she raked in lots of milk, oils, household supplies and other food items.

Among the lucky winners were Surojnee Sookdeo and Dionne Cush-Barnwell, who copped $100,000 and $50,000 respectively in

the night’s winnings.

The lucky winners were randomly selected electronically from the list of qualifiers and spectators alike were thrilled and enthusiastic about GTT’s supermarket sweep promotion, the release noted.

“The ‘egg-citing’ Easter Supermarket Sweepstakes formed part of GTT’s ongoing effort to support and strengthen the community by giving

back to our valued customers. During the Easter Season, GTT also held an ongoing scavenger hunt that allowed customers to win exciting prizes,” GTT’s Public Relations Manager, Jasmin Harris said.

She continued by congratulating all three winners and customers who participated in the promotion.

First place winner, Marianne’s daughter, Jada Fernadez

From left to right: GTT Mobile Marketing Manager, Diangelly Singh; Marianne’s daughter, Jada Fernadez; second place winner, Surojnee Sookdeo; Bounty Supermarket Store Manager, Sherwyn Clarke, and third place winner, Dionne Cush-Barnwell

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Linden to host massive business, ‘agri’ expo next week — event to create network for small businesses, local farmers, agro-processors

By Naomi Parris IN a bid to create a wider space for networking and marketing, the regional agriculture department of Region 10 will be transforming its local farmers’ market into a business expo and agriculture village on April 29, 2022.

This activity forms part of a gamut of events planned for Linden Town Week 2022, April 23 to May 5.

The agriculture and business expo, according to the Regional Agriculture Officer of Region 10, Derrick Collins, will give some of the region’s business owners, farmers, agro-processors and other stakeholders a platform to showcase their products and produce.

“This is in partnership with the Region 10 tourism committee and what we plan to do on that day is have persons in Region 10, whether you are a farmer or an agro-processor, we want to give you this space to come and showcase what [you] are producing,” Collins said.

He added that the event is also being held to shed some light on the many other resources that are available in the town.

“Traditionally, we are known as a mining community, but you would be surprised at the amount of agriculture and a lot of persons don’t have that exposure. So, we want to use this opportunity to give that kind of exposure,” Collins related.

He added that he is hoping that the expo will be an engine for growth and advancement in the region’s agriculture sector.

Collins said: “It will benefit the participants tremendously, as we are looking to use this as a networking opportunity… a lot of persons do not know that Linden is producing this.

We have a lot of persons who don’t know that markets exist beyond Linden for their produce.

“We want investors to come and see what we have right here and let them know before they go anywhere else, they can come here to invest.”

Speaking about the benefits that would accrue to consumers, the agriculture officer said: “We are looking at the

local consumers and the need for them to understand that we are producing these [products] in linden, so we don’t have to depend on going elsewhere.”

To show even more support for the local farmers and

Sears, he is excited for the economic stimulation that will accompany the event.

He told this publication that this year’s event will not only see a grand celebration, but also provide an economic

Persons participating in a recent farmers’ market exercise held at the Wismar Market Square last month (RDC photo)

the town’s business community, Collins said that while a small fee is attached for registration, this will be waived for the first 30-35 participants.

Those persons, he said, will be fully sponsored by the region’s agriculture department.

ECONOMIC BOOST In celebration of the town’s 52nd anniversary, the Linden Town Week event is set to return on April 23 with a series of fun-filled and vibrant activities.

The event is being spearheaded by the regional tourism committee and according to committee’s head, Devin

boost since many of the local businesses and entrepreneurs are also in preparation mode. “[What] we are happy and excited about is the economic stimulation Linden Town Week will bring, because a lot of folks are looking forward to it,” Sears said.

He added: “When you come to Linden, it’s not just accommodation, people will need meals, clothes; they will need everything. We are seeing supermarkets stocking up already, we see the clothes vendor gearing up for the coloured-themed events [and] we are really happy about that part there.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

Jamaica dominate medal count... (From back page) following her success on Sunday in the 400m hurdles.

Michelle Smith of the US Virgin Islands, already with gold in the Under-17 400 metres hurdles, ran away with another in the 800 metres shortly after taking silver in

the 100 metres hurdles.

She clocked 2:10.78 to beat Andrene Peart of Jamaica (2:13.07), with Guyanese Attoya Harvey (2:14.08) claiming bronze.

Smith’s victory also prevented Jamaica from a clean sweep as they took the other three 800m events – Ainsley Brown winning the Under-17 boys in 1:58.08, Jody-Ann Mitchell taking the Girls’ Under-20 in 2:09.73 and J’Voughnn Blake clinching the Boys’ Under-20 in 1:49.89.

For the third time in the session, Jamaica were prevented from a clean sweep when Curacao’s Matthew Sophia won the Boys’ Under-20 sprint hurdles in 13.74, beating hometown star Demario Prince into second in 13.88.

Shaquane Gordon (13.69) and Jadan Campbell (13.91) pulled out a one-two in the Boys’ Under-17s with Jermahd Huggins of St Kitts and Nevis third in 15.21, while Alexis James (13.32) and

Oneka Wilson (13.67) delivered another one-two punch for the hosts in the Girls’ Under-20, as Nya Browne of Barbados (14.63) claimed bronze.

Bryana Davidson topped the podium in the Under-17 girls in a time of 13.50.

Mitchell Curtis of The Bahamas, an Under-17 champion over 1 500 metres in the past, outstripped the field in the Under-20 5 000 metres, crossing the line in 16 minutes, 07.57 seconds.

That was the last individual track event and the field events ended with a bang as well, Jayden Hibbert of Jamaica winning the Under-20 triple jump.

He came to the event with the long jump title already in the bag and uncorked a massive second round leap of 17.05 metres but an aiding wind of 2.8 metres per second saw the mark removed from record contention.

The maximum allowable wind assistance is two metres

per second.

Hibbert’s next effort, taping 16.46 metres, established a new CARIFTA record.

Barbadian Aren Spencer took silver with a jump of 15.80 while Hibbert’s team-mate, Royan Walters, finished in third with 15.59.

Kobe Lawrence added an Under-20 shot put record of 20.02 metres to his discus gold to lead a Jamaica onetwo with Christopher Young (19.12), Barbadian Kevon Hinds ending with bronze following a throw of 16.18.

Jamaica’s success on the final day saw them collect an unprecedented total of 97 medals – 47 gold, 32 silver and 18 bronze.

The Bahamas will go home with four gold, six silver and seven bronze while the British Virgin Islands scored four gold of their own, two silver and one bronze.

Trinidad and Tobago ended their campaign with two gold, ten silver and eleven bronze medals.

2022 CARIFTA Games medal table Jamaica picked up another 43 medalson the third and final day to end with 97,their best-ever medal haul, surpassing the previousbest of 86,which was achieved at the 2016 Games in Grenada and equalled in 2017 in Curacao.

SEETHEFINAL MEDAL TALLY BELOW 1. Jamaica - 47 (gold) 32 (silver) 18 (bronze) -97 2. Bahamas - 4 (gold) 6 (silver) 7 (bronze) - 17 3. British Virgin Islands - 4 (gold) 2 (silver) 1(bronze) - 11 4. Trinidad and Tobago -2 (gold) 10 (silver) 11(bonze) -23 5. Guyana - 2 (gold) 3(silver) 2 (bronze) -7 6. USVirgin Islands- 2 (gold) 1(silver) o (bronze) - 3 7.Barbados - 1(gold) 4 (silver) 6 (bronze) - 11 8. French Guiana - 1(gold) 2 (silver) o (bronze) - 3 9.cayman Islands - l(gold) 1(silver) 2 (bronze) - 4 10.Dominica - 1(gold) 1(silver) o (bronze) - 2 11. Grenada - 1(gold) o (silver) 6 (bronze) - 7 12. Antigua & Barbuda - 1(gold) o (silver) 2 (bronze) - 3 13.Curacao - 1(gold) o (silver) o (bronze) - 1 14. St Vincent & The Grenadines - o (gold) 2(silver) 3(bronze) - 5 15. Bermuda - o (gold) 1(silver) 2 (bronze) - 3 16. St Lucia - o (gold) 1(silver) o (bronze) - 1 17. Belize - o (gold) 1(silver) o (bronze) - 1 18. St Kitts& Nevis -o (gold) o (silver) 2 (bronze) - 2 19.Turks & Caicos Islands - o (gold) o (silver)(bronze)1 20. Guadeloupe -o (gold) o (silver) i(bronze) - 1

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

100 days to go until Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games YESTERDAY marked 100 days before the 2022 Commonwealth Games gets under way in Birmingham, England.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games will feature 20 sports – including squash – and will take place between Thursday, July 28 and Monday, August 8, 2022.

Squash – including men’s and women’s singles and men’s, women’s and mixed doubles – joined the Commonwealth Games programme in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 1998 and since then has appeared as a core sport at every Games.

The squash programme at the 2022 Commonwealth Games will be held July 29 – August 8. The squash events will take place alongside hockey at the University of Birmingham, with medals on offer across the men’s singles and doubles, the women’s singles and doubles, and the mixed doubles event.

At the last Commonwealth Games, Gold Coast 2018, New Zealand and hosts Australia won two gold medals apiece, with New Zealand winning the women’s singles and women’s doubles events and Australia winning the men’s and mixed doubles, while England’s James Willstrop won the men’s singles.

Overseeing this year’s squash competition will be a diverse group of referees and officials, with seven Commonwealth nations represented amongst the refereeing pool.

In the buildup to this year’s Games, there have been a number of community projects completed with the aim of leaving a positive squash legacy after the Games. These have included an all-glass court inside Birmingham New Street Station, outdoor courts being built on school playgrounds, community roadshows and introductory squash sessions for children.

Speaking earlier, WSF President Zena Wooldridge, OBE, said: “The Commonwealth Games is a unique opportunity for players to showcase their incredible skill and athleticism not only to a large live audience in the main squash arena, but also for squash to reach vast new audiences via the Games’ broadcast across the Commonwealth.

“I am sensing this will be a very special games for squash, with fans keener than ever to support the event and the players, with a number of the top players now based in Birmingham.” (World squash)

Rivers View lift Bartica Easter... (From back page) in the sealer to once again send the fans into frenzy.

Immediately after the final whistle, the celebrations went into overdrive as players, friends, family, and fans celebrated a well-deserved win. The champions also walked away with the two individual prizes - the MVP trophy awarded to Kellon Richardson and Dariq James taking the Best Goalkeeper accolade.

The preceding third-place match saw a blowout win for Potaro Strikers against upstarts LA Galaxy, 9-2 with a brace each from Troy Parris (5th, 15th), Jermaine Pad-

more (9th, 11th), and Daniel Gardener. There was one each for Lorenzo Cummings (65th), Arlington Williams (77th), and Antoine Allen in the 80th minute. AX Galaxy’s goals were scored by Voldener Da Fonsia in the 7th minute and Ryan Andrews in the 48th minute.

The presentation of prizes took place immediately after the final with Lazio receiving $200 000 while Potaro Strikers pocketed $100 000. The other clubs participating in the competition were Beacons, Wolves United and Agatash United.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

NBA play-off series

Brunson shines as Dallas Mavericks level series JALEN Brunson scored a career-high 41 points to help Dallas Mavericks beat Utah Jazz and level their NBA play-off series at 1-1.

In the absence of injured star Luka Doncic, German Maxi Kleber added 25 points off the bench for a 110-104 win in the best-of-seven series.

In Monday's other playoff games, Philadelphia 76ers went 2-0 up on Toronto after a 112-97 victory.

And Golden State beat Denver 126-106 to lead their series by the same score.

Brunson kick-started a 10-0 Dallas run to put Mavs 96-93 ahead with five minutes and 40 seconds remaining, in Texas.

Although Utah scored the next five points, Kleber made back-to-back three-pointers for a 102-98 Dallas lead and the Jazz never matched them again.

The Mavericks made a team-record 22 three-pointers but committed only three turnovers, tying an NBA play-off record.

"We needed this win," Brunson said. "I just tried to go out there and have fun.

I'm just being aggressive,

"We have to keep playing the way we've been playing. We know what we've got to do.

We've just got to execute."

Jalen Brunson is enjoying the best season of his NBA career

trying to make plays, trying to engage multiple people, trying to create problems.

Just playing my game!

"We've just got to keep playing together, no matter what. We're just taking one game at a time. This was great, but we've got to look forward."

In San Francisco, Golden State finished the second quarter on a 26-8 run over the last seven minutes for a 57-51 half-time lead.

They took control in the third quarter, leading 10181 entering the fourth, and cruised to victory.

All-Star guard Stephen Curry, coming off the bench in his second game back from a foot injury, scored 34 points

while Jordan Poole had 29 points and Klay Thompson 21.

Serbian centre Nikola Jokic, last season's NBA MVP, led Denver with 26 points but was ejected after a second technical foul with seven minutes remaining.

Philadelphia's win in their home game gave coach Doc Rivers his 100th career NBA play-off triumph.

Cameroonian centre Joel Embiid finished with gamehighs of 31 points, 11 rebounds while Tyrese Maxey contributed 23 points, nine rebounds and a game-high eight assists.

"We've got it all. We've just got to put it all together on the floor," Embiid said.

Amir Khan says he was 'robbed at gunpoint' in east London FORMER world boxing champion, Amir Khan, says he has been robbed at gunpoint while out with his wife in Leyton, east London.

On Monday, the 35-yearold wrote on Twitter that he had a "gun pointed in my face" as two men stole his watch.

The 2008 Olympic silver medallist was with wife Faryal at the time but said "the main thing is we're both safe".

The Metropolitan Police said they were investigating after being called to an incident on High Road, Leyton on Monday at 21:15hrs BST. "A man aged in his 30s is alleged to have been ap-

Amir Khan won a silver medal at the 2004 Olympics before a 40-fight professional career

proached by two males who threatened him with a firearm before stealing his watch and fleeing," said a statement.

"There were no reports of any shots fired or any injuries. Police responded and conducted an area search.

"At this very early stage

there have been no arrests.

An investigation has begun and police are following a number of enquiries."

Khan last fought in February when he was stopped by bitter rival Kell Brook, after which he said the defeat could be his final bout.

(BBC Sport)

The 2022 NBA MVP finalist suffered a right elbow injury late in the third quarter but played to the finish.

"It was pretty sore," he said. "But it's the play-offs.

Got to fight through it.”

(BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

Hazlewood, du Plessis star in RCB's comprehensive win over LSG FAF du Plessis composed a superlative 64-ball 96 to lead from the front, while Josh Hazlewood bagged an IPL career-best four-for as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) downed Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 18 runs in Mumbai.

It wasn't all smooth sailing for RCB as early strikes had left them precariously placed at 7 for 2. Both Avesh Khan and Dushmantha Chameera used the hint of grass cover to their advantage and banged the pitch hard to cause a few problems up front.

Chameera also was rewarded for his efforts, - dismissing Anuj Rawat and Virat Kohli off successive deliveries. Rawat was dislodged on the back of an excellent catch by KL Rahul at mid-off. Kohli then guided a back of a length delivery

that hit high up on his bat to backward point.

For a while Glenn Maxwell played with his trademark sense of adventure to put the pressure back on LSG. In the 3rd over, he drove through the covers, whipped and pulled Chameera to push

RCB skipper Faf du Plesis led from the front with a 64-ball 96

RCB's run-rate close to 10.

Just when Maxwell looked set to hit top gear, he fell to Krunal Pandya. The explosive batter attempted a reverse sweep but couldn't beat the fielder at short third man with Jason Holder using his long levers to pluck a fine catch. du Plessis reached his 50 off 40 balls and despite losing Shahbaz, he continued rotation of strike with shots to push the scoring rate. In the 15th over, he smacked Krunal for a six and a four.

He also took on Bishnoi by

thwacking him for a couple of boundaries in the 18th over, with the leg-spinner returning figures of 0 for 47 from 4. At the other end, Dinesh Karthik lifted Avesh over long-off for a six.

Ultimately, du Plessis fell four short of a hundred in the last over when he holed out to deep backward square leg off Holder.

With the track offering a hint of tennis ball bounce, alongside the dew not being a factor, RCB bowlers had a good chance of defending the target. Hazlewood made the early incision when he dislodged Quinton de Kock with the one that nipped away off the seam.

The tall paceman also sent Manish Pandey back to the hut. Harshal Patel then bagged the prized scalp of KL Rahul, with the LSG skipper being dismissed via a strangle down leg. The initial decision was not out but RCB overturned it via the review system.

Krunal (42) and Marcus Stoinis (24) offered some hope to LSG but it wasn't to be as RCB won their fifth game of the IPL season.

Now RCB have jumped up to second spot with 10 points on the table. (Cricbuzz)

Yorkshire sign Sri Lanka captain for three County matches YORKSHIRE have signed Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne for their next three County Championship matches.

The 33-year-old will play in this week's fixture against Northamptonshire at Wantage Road before facing Kent and Essex in May. Interim managing director of cricket, Darren Gough, said: "We are delighted that Dimuth will be joining us.

"He has proved himself to be an exceptional leader for Sri Lanka and is a tremendous Test match batter."

Gough added: "It can only benefit the lads in our changing room to have a player of his quality and I'm sure they will all get a lot from it. I'm confident he will contribute runs and enjoy his

Dimuth Karunaratne has scored 5,620 Test runs including 14 centuries at an average of 39.57

time at Yorkshire."

Karunaratne signed for Hampshire as an overseas player for the 2019 season, but did not play for the county in the end, having taken over as Sri Lanka captain for that year's World Cup. (BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

Fury reiterates he will retire after Dillian Whyte showdown TYSON Fury has reiterated he will retire after Saturday’s world heavyweight title fight with Dillian Whyte and brushed off the latest no-show by the mandatory challenger.

An open workout took place yesterday in the shadows of Wembley Stadium, which is set to be graced by 94 000 spectators this weekend.

Fury was put through his paces by trainer SugarHill Steward and insisted afterwards the domestic contest with Whyte will be the last of a professional career which started in 2008.

At last month’s unveiling press conference for the bout, the 33-year-old conceded Wembley could be his last hurrah but was non-committal during a virtual media event on Thursday where he insisted his only focus was on the fight, not what would happen after.

It was a different story after being put through his paces at BOXPARK Wembley, where Fury said: “That’s

it. Get a good victory here on Saturday night, relax, sit back and enjoy life. I am loving every second of it (this week).

“It’s been a long old journey, ups and downs in my career, lots of ups and downs. I’m coming up to 34, 20 years as a boxer, that’s enough for anybody. There’s plenty of other stuff I need to do like look after my kids and wife and enjoy them.”

Fury told co-promoter Frank Warren they would share a drink after this weekend’s blockbuster event and toast a “successful night and career” but Wembley was never the pinnacle for the WBC-belt holder.

He instead labelled York Hall in Bethnal Green in addition to several venues across the Atlantic among the boxing arenas he always wanted to tick off.

“We will put on a good fight and leave it all in the ring, I will be leaving every ounce of strength and energy I have in my body in the ring on Saturday night,” Fury

British rivals Tyson Fury (left) and Dillian Whyte are set to clash this Saturday at Wembley stadium

(31-0-1, 22KOs) predicted.

“The rest of it is God’s will, so if it is written in the stars on Saturday night then guess what Frank Warren?

We will have a drink after the fight to a very successful night and career. That’s it.”

On fighting at Wembley, where he had only previously visited once before last month to watch the Cincinnati Bengals take on the LA Rams in the NFL, Fury added: “It hasn’t been my

Anderson, Broad available to play for counties this week JAMES Anderson and Stuart Broad are set to make belated introductions in this season’s LV= Insurance County Championship as they both seek England recalls.

Anderson and Broad were controversially omitted from the three-Test tour of the West Indies last month as England’s much-publicised reset in redball cricket fell flat in a chastening 1-0 series defeat.

Neither of England’s top two all-time leading wicket-takers wants to end his storied international careers and they are available to make their first appearances of the domestic campaign this week.

Anderson, 39, sat out Lancashire’s season-opening win against Kent last week but is poised to feature in the Division One clash against Gloucestershire at Emirates Old Trafford, which starts tomorrow.

Broad, 35, who was absent for Nottinghamshire’s Division Two fixtures against Sussex and Glamorgan, is almost certain to play in his side’s trip to Chester-le-Street to take on Durham.

The duo, who have taken a combined 1 177 Test wickets, have not played competitively

James Anderson (right) and Stuart Broad have not played competitively since England’s 4-0 defeat in the Ashes in January (Martin Rickett/PA)

since England’s 4-0 Ashes loss in January, with Anderson admitting last week he was still bemused by his surprise axing.

“I’ve stopped trying to make sense of it and just put it to one side,” said Anderson, the most prolific seam bowler in Test history with 640 dismissals in 169 matches.

Broad, who has taken 537 wickets in 152 Tests, revealed in his Mail on Sunday column in February that he was left “confused and angrier with each passing day” at being overlooked for the Caribbean trip.

Whether the pair have an England future – their next Test assignment is a threematch series against New Zealand in June – is likely to

be near the top of the in-tray for new managing director of men’s cricket Rob Key, a former international team-mate of Anderson.

Saqib Mahmood, arguably the only England fast bowler to emerge from the West Indies with any credit, could line up alongside Anderson as he is also free to face Gloucestershire this week, with both seamers bowling in Lancashire’s training session yesterday morning.

However, Ollie Robinson, who missed all three Tests against Kraigg Brathwaite’s side due to a back spasm, is unavailable for Sussex’s trip to Worcestershire because of a non-COVID-19 illness.

(PA Sport)

ambition or ‘Oh my God I want to box Wembley’.

“I wanted to box Old Trafford, the York Hall Bethnal Green, Madison Square Garden and MGM (Grand Garden Arena).”

Warren, who co-promotes Fury, is unsure whether his prized asset will call it quits after facing Whyte, who failed to show up for yesterday’s open workout due to issues with his flight to England from his Portugal

training camp.

“If Tyson hangs up the gloves, I will support him wholeheartedly because he is the guy getting in the ring and it is his choice but who knows? We’ll see what happens after the fight,” Warren admitted.

Fury worked up a sweat during his open workout but did poke fun at his UK-based promoter for the size of the ring.

The boxer from Wythenshawe perhaps gave a hint of how he will box under the arch after he lined up in a southpaw stance at BOXPARK but his rival Whyte was not on hand to witness it.

Brixton fighter Whyte (28-2, 19KOs) also failed to attend last month’s unveiling press conference but fears over the bout falling through appeared to be allayed when he attended a virtual media event on Thursday, the day after he sent a tweet to promote the event.

Asked if he expected to see his compatriot at to-

day’s press conference, Fury replied: “I’m sure he will because if he doesn’t show up, there’ll be trouble.”

Warren cut a more measured figure this time having described Whyte as a “disgrace” for his absence from the March 1 event.

“I am very disappointed he is not here. Apparently he is stuck on a plane or whatever it is. What can I do? We move on and we’re here tomorrow. He will certainly be here tomorrow,” the 70-year-old said.

“What am I going to do?

Smack his a*** and make him stand in the corner? All those things will be resolved after the fight.

“He has done a couple of things; he did a very good interview on BT Sport, a very good interview.

“You could actually see who the guy is and what he is about but unfortunately he is not here today. Thankfully I have the most colourful heavyweight since Muhammad Ali.” (PA Sport)

CPL confirms St Lucia to host CPL 2022 matches CASTRIES, St Lucia (CMC) – The Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has confirmed that St Lucia will host matches during the 2022 season at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in Beausejour.

No dates have been announced, however.

The Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in Beausejour will be the venue for CPL matches this year.

In a statement issued yesterday, the CPL named St. Lucia as the third of four countries where matches will be played. The others announced so far are Trinidad & Tobago and Guyana.

“We are very pleased to confirm that we will be back in St Lucia in 2022 and we are grateful to the government for working with us to make this happen. St. Lucia has been such a huge part of the Hero CPL story and as we enter our 10th season it is great

Hero CPL’s chief executive Pete Russell

to be back at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground this year,” said Pete Russell, Hero CPL’s CEO. With the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in the tournament having to be played in one country, the 2020 and 2021 seasons of the Hero CPL took place in Trinidad & Tobago and St Kitts & Nevis respectively.

For the 2022 season, which will run from August 30 to September 30, the plan is to move around the region once again with three venues being used for the group stages and another selected for the finals.

“We are delighted to be one of the venues for CPL this year. The pandemic limited major sporting events across the world so to be able to welcome back a prestigious tournament such as this means a lot to us,” said CEO of the St Lucia Tourism Authority Lorine Charles-St. Jules.

“This event is full of opportunities. It’s a chance to enjoy the brilliant sportsmanship that you see on the cricket field and it’s an opportunity to come together and enjoy our St Lucian hospitality. We look forward to welcoming spectators and visitors this September.”

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Junior Jags go down fighting in first match against strong hosts in Bosnia

Guyana Boys’ U16 National team

THE Guyana Boys’ U16 National Team fought valiantly but ultimately lost against a physical and more experienced host side in the first match of the UEFA Assist friendly tournament in Bosnia and Herzegovina yesterday.

The match, Guyana’s first appearance at a European international competition at any level, revealed the differences between the standard of youth football in the Caribbean and Europe, with a strong Bosnia and Herzegovina team eventually running out 9-1 winners.

The Junior Jaguars will be aiming to take lessons from the defeat and to show improvement in their next fixtures against Lithuania and Montenegro in the unique development tournament that is designed to build bridges across cultures, and drive knowledge exchange and improvements in youth football.

“We played against the home team today and we already knew they were a superior team,” said head coach Vurlon Mills. “But I must commend my players for their strength, desire and the passion they showed in the way they played. I’m

very proud of how we played today. As I said before, the result was not important, but how we played as a team – and we performed well with a good general understanding.”

“Our aim is August, with the CONCACAF U17 Championship qualifiers,” said coach Mills. “We are working on how we press the ball collectively, and we can only build on that. In a few weeks, going into our preparations for the qualifiers, they can only get better at it and it will be impossible to penetrate.”

Christopher Whitter, a second-half substitute, put away Guyana’s only goal – the first scored by Jaguars in a European tournament.

“When I was on the bench, I watched how they played and when they made a wall they left always the middle always on, so when the ball playing now, I pushed and got the header and scored,” Witter said. “It felt great!”

Defender Kvist Paul said the team played with a “great manner” and has started to develop a better understanding of each other.

“Playing in Europe for the first time, I think we’ve

done great,” Paul said. “From my perspective, I feel I put my best and I’m keen to see what we can do in the next match.”

Guyana play Montenegro tomorrow, and Lithuania on Sunday, April 24.

GFF Assistant Technical Director Bryan Joseph thanked UEFA Assist for facilitating Guyana’s participation in the competition and said the experience would hopefully open doors for more teams from Guyana and the Caribbean to participate in future competitions.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity for the development of our young players - UEFA Assist agreeing to bring us out here and to have the opportunity to play against European teams,” Joseph said.

“The boys have really taken to it,” he said. “I am excited about what this level of competition can do for the growth and development of the players. We want to be able to do this on an annual basis with other youth teams – to get this experience and to see what football in Europe is like.”

(GFF press release)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

England should have one head coach under Rob Key - Mark Butcher MARK Butcher believes England's new managing director of cricket, Rob Key, should appoint one head coach across all forms and bring back the role of national selector.

Key, appointed as Ashley Giles' successor on Sunday, stated during his time as a Sky Sports pundit that the coaching roles should be split between red and white-ball cricket.

The role of national selector was abolished last year, with Ed Smith leaving the England and Wales Cricket Board and thenhead coach Chris Silverwood - who was sacked after the 4-0 Ashes thrashing this winter - charged with heading up selection.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Butcher suggested Smith could return to his former job and also explained his concerns over having two separate head coaches.

The Sky Sports analyst and former England and Surrey batter said: "I don't necessarily subscribe to the view that the coaching roles should be split. I still think you should have one man in charge.

Yes, because of the way the scheduling is, one man would not be able to fulfil all the roles and in that case you need good assistant coaches and people you can delegate.

"But I would rather have one man in charge of the whole thing for the simple reason that it is human nature that if you have players moving between two dressing rooms under different leaders they are going to prefer the way one guy does it to the other. I think one man is the key. " I don' t have a pre ferred candidate but I think if you have the right team - director of cricket, a good and reliable, and perhaps someone who has been in the job before, such as Ed Smith, as chairman of

England captaincy candidate Ben Stokes

selectors on the outside then the captain is able to go out there and make the team his own.

"The coach should be a facilitator and bring out the best in the players he has, allowing the captain to run the ship. The captain, unlike in football, is the most important person and his decisions stick STOKES IS PERHAPS THE ONLY CAPTAINCY OPTION Ben Stokes is the overwhelming favourite to succeed Joe Root as Test captain with Key set for talks with the all-rounder this week following Root's decision to relinquish the role.

Butcher said: "In other times I would say don't give Ben Stokes the captaincy, he is too important as a player and a talisman.

"He leads by example by dint of his performances on the field and doesn't need to be captain for people to follow him.

"However, only himself and Root are 100 per cent guaranteed picks so he is perhaps the only person who can be given the job.

"If Stokes wants to take on the role, that's the end of the conversation and I think it is made easier by the fact that Root has stepped down rather than being fired.

"I think Stokes would have found it difficult to step into the role under those circumstances out of loyalty to his pal but in these circumstances I think

the way is clear.

'KEY WON'T FLUFF THE BIG ISSUES' On Key's appointment, Butcher added: "I have every faith that he will go in there with the remit to shake things up. He is certainly not an inside appointment ... he comes fresh from a job where he had to give an opinion on things.

"He has a lot of fresh ideas and is not afraid to canvas opinion, either - or upset people. He is always keen to fight his corner. He won't fluff any big issues and, let's face it, there are lots of them.

"Also, because he is an outsider not versed in management speak, he also has a rather healthy line in cynicism which can be handy when dealing with people who talk in rhymes and riddles.

"He knows the game inside out and has an enormous amount of respect from good judges, both those still playing the game and those on the outside.

"He is going to come in with a fresh angle - but also with very little experience of working in huge organisations so it is an incredibly brave call for him to take it on.

"I have an enormous amount of respect for someone who won't just talk about making changes but is the man to go in and implement them, so it's a very exciting and nerve-racking time for him." (Sky Sports)

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday April 20, 2022

'Green Machine' arrives in The Bahamas for RAN Sevens GUYANA’s Green Machine ruggers have arrived in The Bahamas f o r t h e R u g b y A m e r icas North (RAN) Sevens Championship from April 23-24.

Their opening fixture will be against Curacao on Saturday at 11:56h then they battle defending champions and nemesis, Jamaica from 15:14h and their final group match is against the hosts from 18:54h.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Rugby Football Union has selected a 13-man for the championships.

Accompanying the team will be Sevens Head Coach Theodore Henry and Manager, Ryan Dey. Green Machine: Jamal Angus, Godfrey Broomes, Tyrese Prescod, Avery Corbin, Michael Barrow, Michael Edwards, Lance-

lot Adonis, Owen Adonis, Peabo Hamilton, Rickford Cummings, Lionel Holder, Vallon Adams, and Matthew Talbot.

In addition to the team, the non-traveling reserves are; Dwayne Schroeder, Adrian Hall, Joshua Griffith and David Garnette.

With 15 men’s teams and six women’s teams set to take part in the two-day qualifying tournament for the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 in Cape Town, South Africa in September, along with the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, England in July, a total of 58 matches are set to be played at Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium.

The top two men’s teams and one women’s team from the event will book their ticket to the Rugby World Cup Sev-

Guyana’s national rugby team, Green Machine in The Bahamas

ens 2022, while the highest-placed men’s team eli-

gible to participate in The Commonwealth Games

2022 will represent RAN, alongside Canada who

has already pre-qualified for both men and women.

Salah scores twice as Liverpool Hamstring puts Roach on sidelines with outclass Man United Bangladesh series on horizon LIVERPOOLl outclassed a desperate Manchester United in an embarrassingly one-sided affair at Anfield to go top of the Premier League.

Manchester City can regain their place at the summit against Brighton on Wednesday but this was another thrilling reminder of how Jurgen Klopp's team are determined to chase them down in the hunt for a historic quadruple.

It was also a graphic illustration of the giant task facing United's manager-elect Erik ten Hag as United were run ragged by the Liverpool powerhouse, the gulf in quality and attitude between the sides a chasm.

United were without Cristiano Ronaldo following the death of his new-born son and both sets of supporters paid a moving tribute with applause in the seventh minute.

Liverpool were already in front by then, Luis Diaz sweeping home Salah's pass before the Egyptian ended his eight-game goalless sequence from Sadio Mane's brilliant pass after 22 minutes.

Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Luis Diaz all scored and assisted for Liverpool. It is the second time this season a team has had three players both score and assist a goal in a Premier League match, with the other occasion also being Liverpool against Manchester United

Mane ended any slim hopes United had of making this a challenging evening for Liverpool with a first-time finish from Diaz's pass in the 69th minute before Salah completed the rout with five minutes left.

After their 5-0 win at Old Trafford in October, Liverpool are the first club to score at least eight Premier League goals against United in a single season.

The victory moves Jurgen Klopp's side two points clear of defending champions City, who have seven matches left to play before

facing Brighton at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. It also confirmed they will play Champions League football next season.

United, who could have moved level on points with fourth-placed Tottenham, remain sixth. On Saturday, the Red Devils go to fifth-placed Arsenal.

Liverpool are on an ominous roll and, as against Manchester City in Saturday's FA Cup semi-final, the game was effectively won by half-time following a blistering first 45 minutes.

(BBC Sport)

LONDON, (CMC) – Ace West Indies seamer Kemar Roach will play no further part in the English County Championship for Surrey, after picking up a hamstring injury last week against Hampshire.

Surrey said Tuesday the 33-year-old had returned to his native Barbados to recuperate after scans confirmed the injury, sustained on day two against Hampshire at the Oval.

Roach sent down 38 balls in Hampshire’s first innings and took no further part in the contest which Surrey eventually won by an innings and 17 runs.

“I’m gutted that my time at Surrey has come to an end due to a slight injury but I want to thank the whole Surrey family for the love and care they have shown,” Roach said on so-

West Indies seamer Kemar Roach

cial media.

The Barbadian was expected to feature for Surrey in their first five Championship matches of the season, after returning for a second straight campaign following his success for the London club last year.

He turned out in the season-opener against Warwickshire at Edgbaston,

bowling excellently in the first innings to pick up three wickets in the drawn game.

Against Hampshire, he had managed only one wicket before limping off.

Of concern for Roach will be the upcoming twoTest series against Bangladesh scheduled for the Caribbean in June.

He is the leader of the home side’s seam attack and has been in excellent form in the longest format over the last three years.

Only last month, he claimed 11 wickets in the three-Test series against England to help West Indies secure a shock 1-0 victory.

Roach is seventh on the all-time list of West Indies wicket-takers with 242 wickets, and needs only eight wickets to overhaul the legendary Michael Holding in sixth.

49th CARIFTA Games

Jamaica dominate medal count but Hodge claims top award

BVI ‘s Adaejah Hodge celebrates her gold in the 200 metres on Monday’s final day

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Jamaica imperiously swept the distance relays but Adaejah Hodge of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) added a third gold to her tally to claim the Austin Sealy Award for the meet’s Most Outstanding Athlete, and leave an indelible mark on the 49th CARIFTA Games which wrapped up here Easter Monday.

Already with gold in the 100 metres on Saturday and the long jump on Sunday, the 16-year-old Hodge stormed to victory in the Under-17 200 metres in a time of 23.42 seconds, preventing the

Jamaicans from also sweeping the half-lap finals.

Running out of lane six, Hodge burst from the blocks to establish an early lead, driving through the curve to enter the stretch ahead of the Jamaican pair of Sabrina Dockery and Theianna Lee Terrelonge.

And the race was over as a contest with 75 metres left, Hodge pulling away spectacularly to cross the line without a serious challenger.

Dockery claimed silver in 24.25 while Terrelonge grabbed bronze in 24.64.

Headwinds slowed the time in the remaining 200 metres finals with

the Jamaican trio of Brian Levell, Brianna Lyston and Rickoy Hunter taking the gold medals.

Hunter captured the Boys’ Under-17 event in 22.13, Keo Davis of St Vincent and the Grenadines producing an outstanding performance to get up on the inside for silver in 22.19 while Jamaican Marchino Rose was a disappointing third in 22.26.

Lyston (23.16) added to her sprint relay World record on Sunday with a second gold, blitzing the field from lane six in the Girls’ Under-20 to finish well ahead of Trinidadian Shaniqua Bascombe (24.18) and

teammate Kaylia Kelly (24.33).

Bryan Levell then stopped the clock at 21.18 to win the Boys’ equivalent, teammate Sandrey Davidson finishing second in 21.35 and Grenadian Nazzio John taking bronze in 21.70.

Then came the 4x400 metres sweep. The victories in the Under-17 girls and boys races, along with the Girls’ Under-20 were comfortable but Jamaica had to battle in the Boys’ Under-20 race.

With an effort that reminded veteran observers of a 1966 Commonwealth Games World record victory, Trinidad and Tobago kept

pace with the strong home team all the way and 400 metres champion Delano Kennedy had to work hard to shrug off the stubborn Soca sprinters on the anchor leg.

The winning time was three minutes, 08.94 seconds, with Trinidad and Tobago taking silver in 3:09.67 and Barbados finishing with bronze in 3:10.71.

“I went out there and did my best even though I didn’t get the time I needed. I’m still grateful for the medal,” said Sahfia Hinds, who ran the first leg for Jamaica’s Under-20 girls and grabbed her second g o l d TURN TO PAGE 33 ►

Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams hands over the top prize and trophy to the Rivers View captain in the presence of team-mates, BFA president Alden Marslow (right), and other executive members

Rivers View lift Bartica Easter Regatta ‘Bounce Back’ football title … Potaro Strikers clobber way to third place against AX Galaxy

A COMMANDING display of solid football in offence and defence guided Rivers View to first place in the Bartica Easter Regatta ‘Bounce Back’ football competition which was organised

by Bartica Football Association (BFA) in conjunction with the Easter Regatta Committee.

Four days of football which attracted seven teams ended on

Holy Saturday night at the Bartica Community Centre Ground and was witnessed by a very large crowd.

Rivers View were the only team that played unbeaten as they dispatched Lazio 2-0 in the championship match to walk away with the top prize of $360 000.

It was a bruising affair, fit for a final as neither team could have wrested the early initiative. The

Rivers View fans were very animated and tried their best to motivate their fellow villagers at varying points of the encounter,, which was witnessed by the Hon. Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton; Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton; Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams; Mayor of Bartica, His Worship Gifford Marshall and BFA president Alden Marslow, among

other dignitaries.

But as the match progressed, the patience of the fans was being tested as they started calling for a goal.

Their patience was finally rewarded with 11 minutes to the final whistle.

The Rivers View lads were jumping for joy when Antonio Jones finally broke the deadlock with a well taken shot that evaded the Lazio defence and goalkeeper.

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 Rivers View fans were equally ecstatic as their voices resonated across the river to their family and friends who were left at home.

One goal was never going to make fans and players comfortable so Rivers View doubled the advantage to appease them as the match neared conclusion. With four minutes to full time, Omario Lake banged TURN TO PAGE 34 ► WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2022