Issuu

friday 20th may, 2022

The time is now

No.106728

–– to correct the imbalance between consumption and production in the region, says President Ali

President Dr Irfaan Ali

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Opportunities aplenty and ripe –– as Agri-Investment Forum and Expo opens to rave reviews 13 PAGE

PM Rowley: Single business register could enhance regional integration 04 PAGE

Change in mindset required

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–– to address issues impeding the smooth intra-regional movement of food commodities

Removal of trade barriers 10 integral to better integration in CARICOM PAGE

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Investing in 'vision 25 by 25'

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, has said that the time is now for CARICOM to correct the imbalance between consumption and production in the region. And the way to

achieve this is through the “25 by 25” target, that is, to reduce the region’s food-import bill by 25 per cent by 2025. The President highlighted these and

other issues on Thursday, at the National Cultural Centre (NCC), as he delivered welcoming remarks at the opening of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, which

will run from May 19-21, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Photos by Adrian Narine and Elvin Croker

The time is now

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

–– to correct the imbalance between consumption and production in the region, says President Ali

By Tamica Garnett AS nations in the CARICOM region continue to be hard hit with food-security issues due to external global factors, President, Dr Irfaan Ali stressed that the time is now for CARICOM to correct the imbalance between consumption and production in the region. And the way to achieve this is through the “25 by 25” target, that is, to reduce the region’s food-import bill by 25 per cent by 2025. The President highlighted these and other issues on Thursday at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) as he delivered welcoming remarks at the opening of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, which will run from May 19-21 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. “We, the leaders of CARICOM, must send a strong message, we must correct the imbalance. We have and we must prepare to achieve the target of 25 by 2025,” President Ali noted. “We cannot lose this momentum as the region cannot

continue the importation of billions of dollars in products that we can produce right here. The time is now, the will is there. Together, we have no other choice but to create a win for CARICOM under these challenging food security times.” President Ali was one of eight CARICOM heads of government who spoke during Thursday’s opening ceremony, who all stressed their commitment to doing what is necessary to see the regional food- import bill reduced. The forum, which will focus on connecting investors and financial institutions with agricultural projects, saw the participation of close to 600 registered delegates, more than 250 companies, and more than 20 donor agencies, including international and regional financial institutions. A number of key investment-related activities, inclusive of a country-specific investment platform, will see investors presenting bankable projects for investment consideration in specific CARICOM member states.

President Dr Irfaan Ali During his address, President Ali acknowledged that in achieving the “25 by 25” target, there are many challenges and issues. Nonetheless, work is being done in partnership with the private sector, particularly in the areas of finance, logistics and transport, improving primary production, improving agro-processing and linking markets to produce. “We recognise if we do

not address these issues in a collective, multifaceted manner, then we would not be able to bring the longterm solution that we so critically require,” Dr Ali stressed. WOMEN AND YOUTH Special emphasis was also placed on the need for active inclusion of women and youth in agriculture. “Here in Guyana, we

have set ourselves a target in the shade house and livestock projects for at least 20 per cent of farms to be owned by women, and to have a very high participation of young people for the shade houses project,” Dr. Ali said. The President also went into outlining some of the key areas and ways in which Guyana will be contributing to 25 by 25. Key areas highlighted include poultry production, corn and soya, vegetables and rice. According to Dr Ali, the plan is to move Guyana’s current production of 50,000 metric tonnes of poultry to 90,000 metric tonnes by 2025. Corn and soya production, which is currently at 4,300 metric tonnes, will be increased to 5,000 metric tonnes; vegetables will be increased from 324,000 metric tonnes to 400,000 metric tonnes and rice from 560,000 to 847,000 metric tonnes. More than just talking the talk, President Ali noted the government is prepared to walk the walk by putting forth tangible investments in agriculture. “We are matching the targets with incentives from government,” Dr Ali noted. The government’s plan

to reduce energy costs by 50 per cent by 2025 is also a big part of the plan for growth in agro-processing and other value-added manufacturing sectors, which are energy intensive. The President also noted that Guyana is exploring ways to tap into the global industrial hemp market, which will reach US$12.01 billion by 2028. Dr Ali also highlighted the need for increased production in the area of aquaculture, noting the decline in sustainable fishing, with less than 50 per cent of the marine stocks in the Caribbean expected to be fished sustainably by 2030 if this trend continues. According to Dr Ali, with marine stock on a continual decline in the region, any increase from fisheries supply will have to come either from imports or aquaculture farms within the region. “The choice is ours. The decision is very simple. If we are to secure our production we must take action to expand our aquaculture industry as extra-regional supplies will be more costly, given the sharp rise of import cost,” he noted.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Single business register could enhance regional integration –– Prime Minister Rowley tells stakeholders at opening of Agri-Investment Forum and Expo By Jared Liddell

WITH food security and reducing the existing food import bill high on the agenda for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley, has opined that there is a need for the development of a policy that would allow for the creation of a single business register for regional companies. The Trinidadian Head of State pitched his idea during the opening ceremony of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo at the National Cultural Centre, on Thursday. There, he said that having a system where businesses would not be required to go through the process of registering in each CARICOM state, would significantly boost the efficiency of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). “My colleague from Barbados [Prime Minister Mia Mottley] and I talked about this idea of having within this single market and economy, a single company register where

once a company is registered anywhere in the CARICOM it is deemed to be registered everywhere in the CARICOM. That is a simple straightforward way of encouraging entrepreneurial recognition under the law that will remove a lot of impediments,” Dr. Rowley related. He said that as part of CSME, provisions have been made for the ease of doing business, as part of efforts to promote self-efficiency among the CARICOM states. But this is not always realised, given certain barriers which hinder and slow down the efficient operation of the single market and economy. Dr. Rowley told stakeholders that the implementation of this register would be a “giant step” in advancing the agenda and effectiveness of the single market and economy to cater to growing needs, especially as it relates to food security. The CSME seeks to implement provisions for the removal of trade and professional restrictions which govern the right to the establishment of businesses, provision of regional

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services, the free movement of capital, and the coordination of economic policies. The fundamental aspects of CSME are consumer affairs; competition policy; social security; contingent rights; immigration arrangements for free movement of persons; administrative arrangements for commercial establishment; government procurement and trade and competitiveness in CARICOM. Dr. Rowley believes that if systems are not put in place to allow CARICOM Member States to provide food security among themselves, there could be a situation similar to what prevailed during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when there were supply shortages due to shipping woes. “Nobody is going to give us food when food is in short supply. So if we don’t put arrangements in place to ensure that there is food for our people then who can we blame? We have to do it now so that the next time it happens, we will be in a better position, not a worse position,” Dr. Rowley posited.

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Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley, addresses stakeholders at the opening of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, on Thursday (Adrian Narine photo)

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Change in mindset required –– to address issues impeding the smooth intra-regional movement of food commodities

NOTING that the region is at a most critical time of its history and that a crisis like no other is before it, Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley made a clarion call for a change in mindset among CARICOM nations to address issues impeding the smooth intra-regional movement of food commodities. Prime Minister Mottley made the remarks while delivering a presentation on “Pursuing CSME and removing barriers to enhance agri trade in the region” on Thursday at the National Cultural Centre, during the opening ceremony of the Agri Investment Forum and Expo. “We have a responsibility now to change mindsets and to change policies. Our sanitary regime must be modernised to ensure safe food can enter, circulate and exit the single economic space efficiently,” Mottley said. “If we don’t make the steps now to remove the barriers, God knows how we can create the productive base that President [Irfaan] Ali has so masterfully drafted for us in terms of the plans to expand productivity and production.” The three-day Agri Forum, which will run from May 19 - 21, at the Arthur Chung Confer-

ence Centre (ACCC), is a component of “25 by 2025” plan (reducing regional imports by 25 per cent by 2025) that seeks to facilitate the matching of bankable projects with prospective investors. Reducing the extra regional importation of food commodities has taken centre stage over the past few years in light of several consecutive global crises, which has been affecting the availability of several key food commodities. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, which started at the beginning of 2020 and the Russia/Ukraine war which started at the beginning of 2022. There has also been a supply chain crisis created by these situations. DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED Small and developing nations, particularly those in the Caribbean region, have been disproportionately affected by the situation. PM Mottley, during her presentation, highlighted several examples of countries which have placed restrictions on their export of key food commodities such as wheat, oil and meats and noted that with more restrictions expected, CARICOM is all the more hard pressed to become

an increased producer. “My friends, what more do we need? It is expected that there will be more restrictions as we go on, as governments safeguard their food supplies in the face of soaring inflation,” PM Mottley noted. However, she pointed out, restrictions facing CARICOM are nothing new. Mottley alluded that sadly the small nations have not been garnering sufficient attention even as a collective to properly deal with the situation on the global scene, all the more why intra-regional solutions are needed. “We had the export restrictions on PPE and ventilators at the beginning [of the pandemic] and we understood then in a very real way that we are simply not large enough to be seen and not loud enough to be dealt with. Neither individually nor regrettably collectively.” MAY BE TOO MODEST Minister Mottley alluded that 25 per cent by 2025 may even be too modest a target and it may very well have to be revised upwards given projections. “It may very well have to be 50 by 2025,” Mottley commented, adding that “This crisis deepens like no other and we don’t

Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley have the luxury to ignore it.” “We have a responsibility to take preemptive action in this region to protect our people – that is why all of us meet in Georgetown today against this backdrop. We need now to fully accelerate our advocacy for the removal of trade barriers that so strangle us,” said the Barbados Prime Minister, pointing out that it is up to the heads of government in CARICOM to “bring this puzzle together”. “We need to ensure that we are able to have proper insurance for our farmers. We need to make sure that we can

update and to put in place the technical support in the fields. We need to build our research capabilities. We need to adopt a suitable technology for young people to enhance productivity and competitiveness. We need to have storage and agro-processing. The goods must reach the consumer in a way that is safe and affordable. It is all up to us to work with retailers, distributors and transport

providers to bring this puzzle together,” said Mottley.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Leading from the front

FROM day one, the current government has risen to the task to combat all the obstacles and difficulties they faced with a positive and relentless approach, despite all the negativities and opposition they encountered daily. Facing COVID-19 and all its repercussions, crime was rampant, unemployment was hurting the nation, there was economic stagnation, Guyanese were critical of many issues and the management of many agencies, cost of living was sky rocketing, taxation was extremely high, production was on a steep curve, reserves at the Bank of Guyana was disastrously dwindling, salaries were inadequate and many overnight non-governmental organisations (NGOs) were extending an unwelcome hand to the new and young government. To add injury to insult, the APNU+AFC Government had signed onto a lop-sided oil contract which locked in Guyana with the worst agreement and the lowest financial returns. In addition, secrecy and non-transparency was paramount to the interest of

Guyanese. From their brazen attempt to rig the last general election, the whole world was privy to all their illegitimate transactions. Under David Granger’s leadership, their administration held the country at ransom for five months and they only demitted office after being sanctioned by the American Government and ordered to step aside. Guyanese were also made a laughing stock when Granger and his team failed to comprehend what the half of 65 represents when determining the outcome of the vote of no-confidence in parliament. Guyanese pride was further shattered when the then APNU+AFC Government went to the Caribbean Court of Justice three times to challenge legal issues and lost. That was then, fast forward to now. The PPP/C Government in February 2022 passed a $552.9 billion budget, Guyana’s largest and most transformational one to date, geared at resuscitating the economy of the country and changing the life of Guyanese with social, physical and mental upliftment from the doldrums of pain,

suffering, poverty and sorrow. The reduction of taxes was the key area responsible to bring immediate relief to the battered Guyanese public along with increases in pensionable benefits and social securities. The compensatory packages for flood relief and the abandoned sugar cane workers who lost their jobs from the closing of the estates by Granger’s government, was a welcoming move. The country took an upward turn with massive new projects implemented, the construction of various infrastructure and the introduction of many economic policies and programmes by all the ministries. These timely, sensitive and financially sound initiatives brought confidence back to the entire nation because the PPP/C’s manifesto unraveled opportunities for all with an equitable and justified distribution. Perpetually, new investors are coming to invest in Guyana, foreign governments are renewing their co-operation and pledging their help and friendship. The government is always on the alert and cognisant of the plight of Guyanese. Acquiescing the ever dan-

gerous COVID-19 situation, they have not lost track of the ramifications of the Russian/Ukraine war and its effects on the world, especially here in Guyana. That is why, the President himself and all his ministers are continuously visiting Guyanese in their home ground and participating in their outreach programmes. They are listening to what the man in the street has to say so that they can practically resolve the burning issues at hand, something the last APNU+AFC Government failed to do. Granger and company ignored the Guyanese people and only visited them when was election time to spread their propaganda. No wonder in the heat of the rising cost of living, the government has once again come to the rescue of Guyanese and announced more relief measures so that Guyanese can further cope with their expenses. Here is a government which sees the need to provide help and work in the true interest of the country and its people. The government is committed to a cause and will never abandon Guyanese or turn its back on them.

Grateful for this grant Dear Editor, I AM a hardworking and proud indigenous woman who provides for and takes care of my family of three, while my husband is away in the interior region. Sometimes it’s difficult for me to send my children to school and put a nutritious meal on the table, but I make do with what is at my disposal.

Recently, I read in the newspaper that the government intends to give us a cash grant of $25, 000 to assist us with easing the effects of the hardship brought about by the rise in the cost of living. As one of the intended beneficiaries, I must say that this is welcome. So too will be the $800M in total which will be placed into the hands of residents from the hin-

terland and riverain communities like myself. I want to therefore thank the Peoples’ Progressive Party/ Civic Government and President, Dr Irfaan Ali for this impending relief and gesture. I am grateful to them because they saw us, Amerindians and indigenous people, as important and worthy of such an allocation at this time. I am proud to say that

had the sum been $15,000 or $20,000, I would have quickly joined any line and collected it. Some $25,000 will go a far way in ensuring that I can meet the shortfall I am experiencing in the household with groceries. This grant is the sort of intervention needed by hinterland families to help us withstand the hardship brought to bear by many factors. We suffered as a

result of the COVID-19 pandemic, then our suffering was made worse by flooding and the rise in fuel prices and essential food items. In closing, I wish to urge all Guyanese to work towards making President Ali’s vision of a One Guyana come through. Every single affected resident or family must get this cash grant. They must feel, as I do,

that the government cares and is trying to make our lives more tolerable as they fight off the effects of the rising cost of living. This thing is not about politics. It is about the people surviving the storm caused by the prices. Yours sincerely, Annalise Humphrey Kwakwani, Region 10

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Small Business Bureau’s MSEs support increased exponentially

Dear Editor,

PERMIT me the opportunity to respond to a number of ill-advised statements concerning government’s support of the small business sector, outlined in the Stabroek News Editorial ‘UncappeD 111,’ of May 3, 2022. The UncappeD Marketplace, hosted by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association from April 30 to May 1, 2022, presented an excellent occasion for the Small Business Bureau (a subvention agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce), to engage and share information with vendors and patrons, about access to business development opportunities. Specifically, the bureau highlighted access by startup and

existing small businesses to training, sponsorship, grants and loans offered annually by the Small Business Bureau, with funding from the Government of Guyana. The bureau’s active participation in UncappeD is indicative of the Government of Guyana’s commitment to consistently foster small-business development and growth, inclusive of access to finance. In October 2020, the Government of Guyana increased the maximum amount of small business grants from $200,000 to $500,000, and in 2021 for the first time allocated $250 million to the Small Business Development Fund (SBDF). That is a 150 per cent increase over the $100 million allocated to the SBDF, the previous three consecutive years. Additionally, in 2021 for the first

time, the bureau exceeded its annual target by disbursing a total of $329.4 million to 746 small businesses. It is uncertain how these distinct government advancements can be categorised as ‘empty promises,’ ‘lip service,’ or ‘measured handouts.’ Contrary to the editorial’s narrative of failed attempts to ‘meet the needs of a country-wide small business sector,’ from 2021 the bureau proactively collaborated with key business development agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority and the National Insurance Scheme, to host Small Business One Stop Shops. Aimed at enhancing equitable development and growth of the small business sector, the activity facilitates easy access to business registration and applications for small busi-

ness financing for persons located in remote communities. To date, 812 persons benefitted from eight Small Business One Stop Shops hosted in remote communities of Regions One, Two, Five and Six. These events have resulted in considerable expansion of small business activities in remote communities. Undoubtedly, there have been notable efforts to enable agro-processing to ‘strive’[sic] and transform ‘micro and small businesses into more lucrative undertakings.’ Approximately $100 million has been invested in equipment to facilitate processing of indigenous teas, oils, flours and farine at two Business Incubator Centres established at Corentyne and Lethem, Regions Six and Nine, respectively. Both centres will be commis-

sioned in 2022. In 2021, the number of agro-processors registered with the bureau and those benefitting from small business grants increased by 100 per cent and 135 per cent, respectively. Moreover, a total of 3305 businesses are currently registered as approved small businesses with the bureau; 1265 small business owners from Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Nine and 10 benefitted from training in 2021, in the areas of Business Plan Writing, and Financial Management and Record Keeping; and in 2021, close to 700 jobs were created by small businesses supported by the bureau. Reportedly, of the 100 small businesses that participated in UncappeD Marketplace 2022, 33 are

registered businesses of the bureau and have benefitted from grants, loans, training and sponsorship. Arguably, there is scope for additional support of the growing small business sector, but this must by no means discount the meaningful strides made in meeting the developmental needs of MSEs in Guyana. With support of the Government of Guyana, the work of the Small Business Bureau increased exponentially, and is poised to support MSEs as active participants in Guyana’s booming economic trajectory. Yours sincerely, Shamane Headley (Ms.) Research and Marketing Officer, Small Business Bureau

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Caribbean Food Insecurity Post-COVID and Ukraine

Part 7: Matching Bankable Projects and Available Financing with Industrial Hemp and Cassava

GUYANA’S President, Dr Irfaan Ali, as Lead Head-of-Government responsible for Agricultural Diversification and Food Security within CARICOM, presented a detailed Action Plan for commercialising the agri-food sector and attaining the vision of reducing regional food imports by 25 per cent in 2025, at the 33rd Inter-Sessional Conference of regional Heads-of-Government in Belize last March. The leaders agreed that the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo that started in Georgetown on Wednesday would be an appropriate platform to tackle the issue of investment in the sector – and they’re now here. The expo was opened to the public and the forum featured a Donors Roundtable, where agencies such as the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) and World Food Programme (WFP) discussed opportunities with CARICOM states. Today brings together potential investors and other stakeholders on ‘New and emerging opportunities in CARICOM’s agriculture’, as well as ‘Matching of bankable agricultural projects with available private and public financing,’

as well as a Plenary on ‘Advancing the Agri-Food System Agenda.’ CARICOM’s Assistant Secretary General for Economic Integration, Innovation and Development, Joseph Cox, said Monday, “We have to now move up the value chain and get that additional value-added in our economies.” Industrial Hemp is one of many such areas that offers ‘new and emerging opportunities in Caribbean agriculture,’ and is also a ‘bankable agricultural project’ to be ‘matched with available private and public funding’ – and Guyana is not just looking at its possibilities, but clearing the way for its legal introduction. The government has presented an Industrial Hemp Bill in the National Assembly to provide for cultivation of hemp and pave the way for its use for manufacturing purposes and related research. Industrial Hemp is a value-added agro-industrial product that can change the way people relate to cannabis and wean many off the thought that the only cannabis is marijuana. Those who’ve followed the quiet growth of that now-global marijuana industry that was in place before the US, UK and Canada turned to legalising

marijuana, point to the way those who are unaware express astonishing disbelief when shown catalogues of what the hemp can produce, including biofuel and bioplastics, clothing, food, insulation, paper, rope, shoes, textiles -- and much more. The hemp is also rich in protein, unsaturated fats, fibre, minerals and vitamins and it protects the brain, boosts heart health, reduces inflammation, improves skin conditions and relieves rheumatoid arthritis. According to a recent Guyana Chronicle report, “The Global Industrial Hemp Markets Report 2021-2028 (published by GlobeNewswire in November 2021) states that the global industrial hemp market size is expected to reach over US$12 Billion by 2028 and to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 16.2 per cent from 2021 to 2028. President Ali, back in March, also expressed optimism that Guyana could develop a viable hemp industry, saying: “The hemp industry is not only about hemp production, but it is about having the processing and value-added facilities here in Guyana and these can generate jobs, because these are industries that have high-value return.” Regulated sale of marijuana products and the profitability of the legally approved ventures have also seen the integration of the banking and other commercial sectors. Marijuana use as a sacred herb by Jamaica’s Rastafarians was smoked out by the commercial trafficking of the holy herb being outlawed and possession and use of which were also illegal for decades, first-time offenders caught with ‘a spliff’ representing the majority in overcrowded Caribbean prisons (as well as in the USA and UK), which is still a problem today – but certainly not much longer in Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, Grenada and other CARICOM states, where legislation has been relaxed or overhauled to allow for citizens to legally possess prescribed amounts for medical or recreational purposes at home and open exclusive, legally approved

marijuana sale and recreational outlets with medical doctors on hand. Guyana has obviously opted for a careful, phased approach, starting with Industrial Hemp (also called Indian Hemp) and legislation that allows for limitless research into all extended positive possibilities. CARICOM leaders in Georgetown today can share their own related national experiences -- and simultaneously learn from Guyana’s, which is what the regional agricultural summit is all about. But today’s session will also lay the basis for participants to seek to preserve and protect, even revive traditional agricultural products left on the supermarket and grocery shelves by customers opting for imported refined products – such as arrowroot, produced from the cassava plant, which the region’s First People cultivated before the Europeans arrived in 1492 and still remains one of the most nutritious indigenous Caribbean foods on which succeeding generations grew and survived over centuries, from cradle to grave. Every CARICOM member-state -- bar none – annually loses countless potential income from nutritious fruits allowed to go to waste due to oversupply and under-consumption -- from mangoes and dunks, golden apples and soursop to cherries and plums (and so much more…) But each fruit allowed to fall off trees or left hanging off branches just because they’re considered of no market value is a potentially new (but not yet even emerging) possibility in an endless number of opportunities representing challenges to those who’ll match bankable agricultural projects with available private and public sector funding. Indeed, just as every challenge brings opportunities, new opportunities also bring their challenges, including overcoming historical underappreciation of the overwhelming possibilities that have gone to waste over time and exploring the new avenues opened up by current global, regional and national food needs.

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Geotextile fabric technology employed for repairs to Thomas Lands Road MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, has said that geotextile fabric is being used in the rehabilitation of the road at Thomas Lands. The minister said the method being adopted is similar to what was done on a section of the Turkeyen Road leading to Sophia. Minister Edghill, following a site visit on Thursday, said work is well underway and the sunken part of the Thomas Lands Road will be completed soon. “This is the same technology that we used at sections of UG Road and at Black Bush Polder, it’s a new technology, because in the absence of that, what you would have to do is to put revetment. Revetment for this road could cost up to three times the cost of building the road,” the minister said.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, inspecting works on the road at Thomas Lands (Public Works Ministry photo) He added: “When you have roads of similar nature, with two canals, at both sides you have these kinds of challenges.” Minister Edghill has appealed to road users, especially truck drivers carrying heavy loads, to exercise caution and discretion.

“We have to ask our people to observe weight limit. We want to be able to have roads so that people are able to move freely, but we also want people to have discretion in how much weight they put in those trucks,” Minister Edghill said.

Removal of trade barriers integral to better integration in CARICOM

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

–– Prime Ministers Briceño, Skerrit say By Shamar Meusa AS the inaugural Agri-Invest Forum and Expo opened on Thursday, at the National Cultural Centre, several regional leaders outlined that it is the right time for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to focus on the removal of trade barriers and more investments in the agricul-

ture sector. Prime Minister of Belize and Chairman of CARICOM, John Antonio Briceno, in his remarks, said that while it is time to invest in the sector it is also the right time to establish strategic partnerships that could lead to the region reaching its “25 by 2025” goal, which entails reducing the regional food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

The Prime Minster said that it is also an opportune time to discuss agriculture and food security in the region, as CARICOM continues to be affected by a number of global events that have caused negative effects on the region as a whole. Some of those events, he said, include the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions in the global supply chains and

even climate change. Briceño related that it is the first time that CARICOM is organising an Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, so it is a welcomed initiative across the region. The theme, “Investing in vision 25 by 2025,” he said, is more than just a catchy slogan, it is a plan which will guide the region in its efforts to reduce its dependency on importation by 25 per cent over the next three and a half years. “As heads, we are convinced that President Ali’s plans for agricultural development in the region

CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of Belize, John Antonio Briceño (Adrian Narine photo) are realistic, more so, they are imperative if we are to achieve food security for our CARICOM region and also 25 per cent reduction in our regions food import bill by 2025,” Prime Minister Briceño said. He went on to say that the region has potential to produce most of the food that is imported and in doing so, economic resilience and development would be attained. In addition to this, the

Prime Minister told stakeholders that he is convinced that it is the right time within the Caribbean region to invest in the “agro-productive sector” and also the right time to establish strategic partnerships and to capitalise on the tremendous opportunities for growth. Briceño related that there is a great opportunity for increased investment in see page 11

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Removal of trade barriers integral to better integration ...

from page 10

agricultural production and agro-processing and, as such, it is imperative that action is taken to maximise these benefits in spite of the current global challenges. TRADE BARRIERS He said it is also time to remove the technical trade barriers that most Caribbean countries impose on each other. Briceño’s sentiments were echoed by Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, who said that CARICOM has the capacity and the ability to supply member states

within the region with a lot of what is needed for consumption. To this end, Skerrit said that “fictitious impositions” which member states place on each other as it relates to trade and more, must be removed. Skerrit said: “We need to work together, we need to allow our produce to come in a freely unfettered manner and allow the ordinary folks within the Caribbean to feel for the first time, the true benefits of the integration.” He went on to register Dominica’s support for the initiative and noted that the

opportunity should not be missed, as it started years back with the “Jagdeo [Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo] initiative.” Prime Minister Skerrit said that he is concerned about the future of food security if the recommendations in the 25 by 2025 initiative are not concretised. He further added that if all stakeholders in the Caribbean region were to make a decision to support Caribbean produce, the problem within the Caribbean will be solved. He said this is why the Government of Dominica

has a firm policy of supporting Caribbean goods first and foremost. Skerrit related that Caribbean goods should be recognised on supermarket shelves and further regulations should be passed to ensure that CARICOM produce and products are placed on shelves. The Dominican Prime Minister highlighted that the initiative is not only about economics, but it is also about the wellbeing and welfare of every citizen in the Caribbean region. Further, Skerrit said: “We look forward to

Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit (Adrian Narine photo) working with you President Ali, to realising this tremendous effort that you’ve put in into one of the most important

sectors in our Caribbean, agriculture and food production, and so let us all join forces to make this happen.”

Campaign against drug use, gang violence held at Patentia Secondary

THE Department of Education’s Region Three Welfare Department in collaboration with the Patentia Secondary School held a comprehensive campaign against drug use and gang vio-

lence as part of its efforts to effectively tackle those social ills. According to a press release from the Education Ministry, the forum was titled “Know Yuh Worth: Drugs Can Hurt. Take Yuh

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Stand and Come Out De Gang”, and was divided into two sessions. Students of the school also participated in a poster competition depicting messages against gang violence, and the use and Inspector Christopher Humphrey engaging students of the Patentia Secondary School (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Education) abuse of drugs. During the morning segment, the Chief Inspector attached to the Wales Police Station, Christopher Humphrey made a presentation to the students on the dangers of being members of gangs, and being involved in gang-related activities. During his presenta-

Health, Wellness and Environmental Management Coordinator in the HFLE Unit. During her presentation, Ms. Browne spoke to the students about ‘gateway drugs’ such as cigarettes and alcohol. Browne was also accompanied by officers attached to the Customs An-

Students of the Patentia Secondary School working on their posters on Thursday tion, Inspector Humphrey also touched on domestic violence within the home, telling the students about the various forms of abuse and how to identify them, and also urged them to seek help as soon as possible, if ever they are victims of abuse, or if it occurs within their homes. Humphrey also shared stories of his experiences over the years in the Force, as a means of emphasising that being involved in illegal activities is not worthwhile. The afternoon session was spearheaded by the Ministry’s Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) Unit represented by Ms. Dionne Browne, who is the

ti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) who spoke to the children about illegal drugs, and how the use and trafficking of these drugs are treated under the law. Students were shown samples of how these drugs are now being packaged and sold, so that they could easily identify them to avoid using or being in the same space where such items are present. Thursday’s event was well received by the students as it was very interactive with many sharing their knowledge and asking questions, and seeking clarity on what they might have heard about the various types of gateway and illegal drugs.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Opportunities aplenty and ripe –– as Agri-Investment Forum and Expo opens to rave reviews By Naomi Parris

AS the curtains opened here on the Caribbean’s first-ever Agri-Investment Forum and Expo on Thursday at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC), there were fruit trees aplenty and blossoming, investment opportunities were ripe, and agro-processors and exhibitors were fairly glowing as they showcased a variety of quality agriculture products. During the course of the day, the Guyana Chronicle seized the opportunity to speak with several of the exhibitors, and they were only too happy to share their excitement at being able to participate in what is being touted as the biggest agriculture event ever hosted in the Caribbean region. The look on her face said it all as Sharon CarewWhyte, of CO-Williams Construction Group of Companies in Barbados, described the event as a platform to foster new business relationships with sister states in the Caribbean. “I thought it was a great idea, and when we were asked to come on board as one of the delegates from Barbados, we were ecstatic,” Carew-Whyte said. While ‘CO-Williams’ is primarily a construction company, it is also engaged in agriculture production, and is hoping to soon offer and expand its services to Guyana. “We are bringing our quarry to Guyana in the form of our agriculture lime,” Carew-Whyte said, adding: “This lime can be used to add to soil, so your crops can be enhanced with nutrients.” Also high in praise for the landmark event was Dave Narine of Dave’s West Indian Imports, one of the largest exporters of Guyanese food products in the USA. Singh said he’s always hoped to see such an event promoting Guyana and other Caribbean countries, since he fervently believes that the richest products are to be found in this region, and as such they must be displayed at the highest possible platforms. A FABULOUS EVENT “I think this a fabulous event! We need to get more see page 18

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Persons with respiratory illnesses advised to limit outdoor presence

–– other vulnerable groups also urged to be cautious as Sahara dust affects air quality across several regions

PERSONS with respiratory illnesses and other vulnerable groups have been advised to limit their outdoor presence in order to safeguard themselves against the Sahara dust which is making its way across various countries. According to an advisory from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Hydrometeorological Service (Met Office), air-quality monitoring has determined that the concentration of particulate matter has exceeded the World Health Organization’s standards in several regions across Guyana. Particulate matter, as described by the EPA, is a

mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are so small they could only be detected using an electron microscope. “The increase in concentrations of particulate matter is due to the significant amounts of dust travelling across the northern tropical Atlantic to the Caribbean from the Sahara region, commonly known as the Sahara Dust Phenomenon or the Saharan Air Layer,” the authorities related. Owing to this phenomenon, hazy conditions are ex-

Air quality index used by WHO (for reference) pected and visibility could be poor in some areas. “High concentrations of particulate matter may

affect vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and persons with respiratory illnesses. These

persons are advised to limit their presence outdoors,” the EPA and Met Office advised. Persons were encouraged to visit www.epaguyana.org for access to real-time updates on the air quality in their local areas. National Geographic had reported in 2020 that the Saharan dust plume is a supersized version of ones that cross the Atlantic all the time, ferrying particles that irritate lungs but also fertilise plant and ocean life. The report further stated that the expanses of dry desert in northern Africa are the biggest, most consistent sources of dust in the world.

“In the summer, a pulse of dust rolls off the continent every few days. Once cooler air masses from the ocean propel it high into the atmosphere, the dust can float for days if not weeks, depending on how high and how dry the air gets. East-to-west trade winds sweep it across the Atlantic toward the Caribbean and U.S. in a few days. As the dust plume moves, bits of it fall in a steady rain of particles,” National Geographic reported. Usually, the dust sparkles thousands of feet above Earth’s surface. But this plume is not only much bigger than usual, it’s much lower too.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Cook on bail for alleged ‘ganja’ trafficking

ACCUSED: Shaniya Goddette A 19-year-old cook, Shaniya Goddett, was granted $40,000 bail on Thursday for alleged cannabis trafficking. Goddette, of New Amsterdam, Berbice, appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Crystal Lambert. The accused woman pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on Wednesday last, at Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), she had 36 grams of cannabis in her possession for the purpose of trafficking. She will return to court on June 10. According to a police report, officers from the Bartica Police Station conducted searches on incoming passengers from Parika, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) at the Bartica Stelling. During the police operation, the law enforcement agency said, Goddette was searched and transparent plastic with a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis, was reportedly found in her possession. According to the police, Goddette under caution admitted ownership, indicating that the cannabis is for her personal use.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Montserrat calls on Caribbean leaders to support President Ali’s vision MONTSERRAT’S Premier, the Honourable Joseph E. Farrell, said Thursday, he is confident of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s agriculture drive, which will help achieve the region’s agriculture goals. He said this during his remarks at the opening of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo at the National Cultural Centre, on Thursday. The three-day event, which is being attended by several regional heads and delegations is being held under the theme, “Investing in Vision: 25 by 2025.” “When discussions began on reducing food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025, I was skeptical, as a Caribbean man. I have heard it time and time again and we have failed, but I’m convinced, having seen the energy, enthusiasm with which your president embarked on this mission, I am convinced that it can come to fruition,” he said. The Premier noted that after gaining independence or republican status, not many Caribbean states invested in agriculture, but focused more on sectors such as education, manufacturing and technology. “Indeed, we have been taught as a nation, as a people, that anything that is foreign is good, and so we enjoy importing food from other places out of the region. We spend our limited resources that we could use for healthcare systems and other social safety nets, to import food, rather than developing our own sectors,” Premier Farrell said. He told leaders to consider what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic when Caribbean nations could not access Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), from external suppliers. The Premier added: “What if something happens and the region is not able to produce food? Our people will die, and that is why we must all rally around this vision, and put it into practice so that at least we begin to produce food for the nations of the region. It is absolutely critical that we do that.” He noted his country, Montserrat, imports 75 per cent of its poultry products and 85 per cent of its food from outside the region. This, he said, is “embarrassing.” The Premier also noted

Montserrat’s Premier Joseph Farrell the issue of connectivity in the region and challenged persons to invest in shipping. Farrell said: “Why should I be importing onions from North America, when my colleagues from the region have lands, enough to produce it?” He noted that the biggest factor is not that food is not available in some countries in the region, but getting food where it is most needed. “For over 25 years the region has been speaking to movement of food from one country to the other, and to this day we have not succeeded, so then we now need investment in shipping, so that we can move those products from Guyana in the South, to Jamaica in the north, from Dominica in the south to Montserrat and Antigua. This is what we need at this point in time,” he stated. “Let us put our money where our mouth is and invest in shipping,” he added. The Premier also noted the importance of food and nutrition security, as there is a high number of non-communicable diseases in the region. He said food produced must be high valued, and not necessarily for use outside of the region. “There is no need for all of us to produce everything. We must begin to specialise. If Belize is producing oranges, I don’t need to produce oranges, we need to specialise and seriously produce and get those produce out of our countries and to the countries who need them most,” he added. Meanwhile, Farrell also

urged the youths to take up the challenge of finding a solution to irrigation water challenges in the region to maximise the use of water. “The government of Montserrat is supportive in working with CARICOM, to achieve vision 25 by 2025,” he told the gathering. (DPI)

Opportunities aplenty...

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

from page 13

of this,” a visibly excited Singh said. Equally thrilled to be a part of this event is Sunita Dookie, of Ceedro’s Atlantic Waters, manufactures of Avani’s Foods in Trinidad & Tobago. Noting that it was her first time at such an event, Dookie said it has exposed her to other local companies, some of which she has learnt

from, and hopes to work with. “It’s amazing, because it is a first for the Caribbean, and it’s my first time as well in an Agri-forum, so it exposes you to a whole lot of things,” Dookie said, adding: “You see who your competitors are; you get a lot of knowledge of what you can do, and what aid that you

also can get.” Avani’s Foods offers frozen pre-cooked goodies like, plantain, sweet potato, and cassava fries. The company uses no added sugars, salts or preservatives to their foods. Hailing all the way from the Cinderella County right here in beautiful Guyana is Govinda Singh, of Roy’s Quality Spices, who noted

that investors have already lined up and indicated their interest in his business and what he has to bring to the Caribbean market. “It’s been great! It’s not the first time I have been at exhibitions, but with this event, I can see a lot of potential customers,” Govinda said, adding: “Apart from that, the event has enabled An exhibitor interacting with patrons on Day One of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo me to meet with different people from different countries, and different parts of the world. “They love food, so they want to know what are these spices, and how can they get them.” Meanwhile, Odean Brad-

the farmers of Guyana.” Lauding the initiative of hosting such an event, Chuku-Liana Adams, of Green Dreams, a growing agriculture business in Guyana, said the forum has created an environment to motivate agriculture businesses in the

Chuku-Liana Adams of ‘Green Dreams’ shaw of H&L Agro, one of the leading import suppliers of Jamaica said she is excited to tap into the Guyanese market to work alongside the farmers and other agriculture stakeholders of the country. “We feel that this is a good opportunity to showcase H&L Agro; it is the leading agriculture import supplier in Jamaica, and, of course, we are moving into the region, and we seek to enter into the Guyana market,” Bradshaw said adding: “We thought it best to come to this forum, because it gave us a wider exposure, and let persons know of our intent, and also know of the product that we have to offer, and what H&L Agro will bring to

region. “This was a great initiative, and I think it is great for us as small business owners, and growing businesses; having us on board along with the others, it’s motivating us to get out there and do even more,” Adams said. The event is being held as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) takes decisive steps to reduce its US$6B food-importation bill by 25 per cent in the next five years. Over a three-day period, it will see the coming together of several regional heads, investors, donor agencies, farmers, as well as agro-processors and exhibitors to hunker down and really talk business.

Alish Ali and Sunita Dookie of Ceedro’s Atlantic Waters out of Trinidad and Tobago

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

Transformation of agri-food systems a necessity –– to respond effectively to multiple shocks, worsening food security, FAO Director-General says

(FAO) The Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), QU Dongyu, on Thursday, made an urgent call for the transformation of agri-food systems, to make them more inclusive, economically viable and resilient to multiple shocks, as well as to produce better and more with less negative impact on the environment. Qu was addressing a ministerial meeting held at the United Nations in New York entitled “Global Food Security

pact of the war in Ukraine that could further exacerbate global food prices since Russia and Ukraine are dominant players in highly concentrated global grain markets. Additionally, the Russian Federation is one of the top exporters in the world of fertilsers, he added, pointing out that the next planting season of countries which are import dependent on the Russian Federation could be at risk. TIME IS SHORT “Time is short, and the

FAO Director-General, QU Dongyu, addressing the “Global Food Security Call to Action” ministerial meeting at the United Nations in New York (FAO photo) Call to Action.” Cumulative effects of multiple shocks related to conflicts, the climate crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, economic downturn, rising food prices have increased people’s vulnerability and pushed hundreds of millions of people to the brink of hunger, the Director-General said. According to the Global Report on Food Crises released earlier this month, in 2021 193 million people were acutely food insecure and in need of urgent assistance across 53 countries/territories. Projections point to around 329,000 people reaching catastrophic food insecurity (IPC five) in Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen by the end of 2022. Malnutrition rates have also increased, with millions of children suffering from stunting or wasting whereas a healthy diet is out of reach for three billion people, according to the FAO’s State of Food Security and Nutrition Report 2021. Moreover, the budgets of governments and consumers have been squeezed tighter and countries’ income per capita has shrunk, creating a cumulative loss to the global economy of more than $12 trillion over two years (2020-21), the Director-General said, expressing concern over the lack of progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Noting that in March 2022 the FAO Food Price Index reached its highest level since its inception in 1990, Qu warned about the cascading im-

situation is dire,” the Director-General said, outlining the path to successful transformation of agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable. First, we must scale up emergency agricultural assistance,” he said. Qu added: “Currently only eight per cent of all food security funding in emergencies goes to assist agricultural production.” On that note, he emphasised that investing in agriculture and rural livelihoods is strategic, and seven to 10 times more cost-effective than traditional assistance. FAO seeks $1.5 billion to support 50 million people in 2022 with urgent agricultural interventions to address acute hunger. Second, it is vital to invest in agri-food systems as well as hard infrastructure (roads, irrigation, electrification, and digital) and value chain infrastructure (storage facilities, cooling facilities, banking infrastructure and insurance infrastructure). Growth in the agriculture sector is a sure-fire way to cut poverty and hunger in many middle to low-income countries, the Director-General said. Third, science and innovation must be prioritised to revamp agri-food systems. The Director-General highlighted the role of cutting-edge innovations in agriculture, such as new breeding techniques to boost crop yields, desired traits, and climate resilience, as well as digital agriculture

that can significantly reduce market failures in agriculture and improve the functioning of the agricultural markets. Fourth, we must reduce food loss and waste, Qu said. Currently the high amounts of food loss and waste could feed around 1.26 billion people per year.

“If we reduce food loss and waste by 50 per cent, there would be sufficient fruits and vegetables available in the food supply to cover the recommended number of fruits and vegetables per person per day,” the Director-General said, underling that food loss and waste also results in a

huge negative impact on the environment. During the last two and half years, FAO has delivered support to its members and provided global public goods as well as direct assistance in response to the worsening global food security situation due to the pandemic, disasters,

conflict and climate change. This has been done through a variety of science-based analytical tools, normative work, data, analyses, and rapid response actions. The Director-General re-affirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting members to answer this call to action.

guyana CHRONICLE friday may 20, 2022

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

Kohli breaks jinx to keep RCB in the running (ESPNCRICINFO) - Virat Kohli finally broke out of the funk, with 73 off 54 balls, his highest score this IPL, to keep Royal Challengers Bangalore’s campaign alive, but only just. Royal Challengers still need Delhi Capitals - who now have a superior net run rate than theirs - to lose their final league fixture to Mumbai Indians, if they are to sneak into the playoffs. Royal Challengers’ victory meant Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad were out of the reckoning for playoffs. Kohli’s second half-century against Gujarat Titans - and only his second overall this season - formed the centrepiece of Royal Challengers’ successful pursuit of 169. Faf du Plessis simply rode in Kohli’s slipstream during a 115-run opening stand before holing out for 44 off 38 balls. Rashid Khan also got rid of Kohli, in his next over, but the game was all but over by then. Glenn Maxwell got the job done, along with Dinesh Karthik, with a flurry of boundaries. Such a dominant win didn’t seem likely when Royal Challengers’ designated death bowler Harshal Patel bowled just one over and then left the field after splitting the webbing in his bowling hand. Despite late blows from Hardik Pandya (62* off 47 balls) and Rashid (19* off 6 balls), Harshal-less RCB managed to limit Titans to 168 for 5 on a slow Wankhede pitch. MAXWELL IN THE THICK OF THE ACTION Maxwell’s first contribution of the evening was a spectacular one-handed grab at wide slip to send back Shubman Gill for 1. Maxwell then bowled two overs in the powerplay, which brought the wicket of Matthew Wade and cost Royal Challengers just

two runs. Wade was visibly frustrated at being given out lbw when he thought he had bottom-edged a sweep onto his pad. He called for a review almost immediately, but UltraEdge didn’t detect a spike although some side-on replays suggested a deflection off the bat. So there wasn’t enough evidence for TV umpire Navdeep Singh to overturn the on-field out call. Maxwell could’ve also had Pandya on 14 had Suyash Prabhudessai not misjudged a catch at the long-on boundary. MILLER, PANDYA DO REPAIR JOB When du Plessis nailed a direct hit to run-out Wriddhiman Saha in the ninth over, Titans were 62 for 3. Pandya and David Miller then got together, forging a 61-run fourth-wicket stand. Pandya, in particular, struggled to time the ball on a pitch that offered grip to the slower bowlers. He swung so hard at Maxwell that he not only lost his shape but also his grip, with the bat flying over square leg in the tenth over. As for Miller, he was more fluent against spin, taking finger-spinners Maxwell and Shahbaz Ahmed for 23 off 11 balls. However, Wanindu Hasaranga, the wrist-spinner, cut short Miller’s innings at 34 off 25 balls by pulling off a terrific return catch. Despite the unavailability of Harshal, Royal Challengers made Pandya work hard for the large part of his innings. He needed 42 balls to get to a half-century. Rashid and Pandya then plundered 34 off the last two overs bowled by Siddharth Kaul and Josh Hazlewood, but they still couldn’t reach 170. THE KOHLI SHOW Kohli gave Royal Challengers’ chase a jumpstart,

claiming 34 runs of the 55 they hit in the powerplay. His innings was pure theatre, with the Wankhede crowd right behind him. He pumped Mohammed Shami over his head for four in the third over and regularly hit over the top, a departure from his usual cagey approach in the powerplay. Fortune was also on his side yesterday. When Shami found some seam movement, the ball did not shave the outside edge. And when Hardik Pandya nipped the ball into him and cramped him, the inside edge missed the stumps. Kohli also got a reprieve on 16 when Rashid, standing a few yards in from the square-leg boundary, dropped a catch. Kohli’s early assault prompted Titans to rush Rashid into the attack as early as the fifth over, but Kohli attacked him as well. He lofted him over his head for four and then rattled up 33-ball fifty in grand style, with his first-ever six off Rashid. Kohli, however, judiciously played out R Sai Kishore who varied his pace smartly and got more purchase from the pitch. When he drifted one into Kohli and got it to turn away sharply, it veered away from Kohli’s outside edge. There were enough signs that this was Kohli’s night. Kohli was so pumped he even celebrated du Plessis’ boundaries with gusto. Rashid then returned to the attack to give Royal Challengers some late jitters. He snagged du Plessis and Kohli in successive overs and almost added Maxwell to his scalps. He hit the top of Maxwell’s leg stump, but the bails didn’t get dislodged. Maxwell went on a boundary-hitting spree to close out the game that he had set up beautifully.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

Sainz wants broader debate on F1 health impact (BBC) - Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz wants a broader debate on the long-term health impact of Formula 1’s new generation of cars. Sainz says he feels pain from racing in a car that has a stiffer suspension to counter the bouncing, or ‘porpoising’, caused by new aerodynamic rules. Asked how the cars might handle next week’s Monaco Grand Prix, the Spaniard said: “It’s more than Monaco. “How much toll should a driver pay for his back and his

health in an F1 career with this kind of car philosophy?” New rules regarding car design, brought in this season, were intended to increase the chances of overtaking - but one side-effect was that cars were more likely to ‘porpoise’, and so teams have had to find ways to counteract that. Sainz, who is fifth in the drivers’ championship after coming third at the Miami Grand Prix earlier this month, added: “I think we need to open the debate more than anything. “I think the regulations are

great. They’re doing exactly what we needed for racing. But do we need to run as stiff for our necks and back as we are having to run lately?” Sainz, 27, has started 145 races since coming into Formula 1 in 2015 and says he is “already feeling” the impact from the car changes. “I’ve done my usual checks on my back, neck tightness, and I see this year I’m tighter everywhere,” he said. “I don’t need expert advice to know that 10 years like this it’s going to be tough, and

you’re going to need to work a lot in mobility, flexibility.” However, Sainz’s former team-mate Lando Norris suggested that there were ways to design a car so that it reduced porpoising without causing back problems. Briton Norris, whose McLaren car bounces less than that of other teams, said: “I would have thought you’d have much worse effects from crashing a car at 50 or 60G like some of us have done.” He also made a redesign suggestion that would cut down on bounce - but also reduce speed and performance. He said: “There are also many ways for them to stop porpoising. Like lifting your rear ride height 20mm.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 20, 2022)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Chris Gayle-733 runs (RCB) (2) Chris Gayle-128* (RCB vs DD) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who claimed most wickets in IPL 2012? (2) What were the best bowling figures in a single game in IPL 2012? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

GCA incorporates with sponsors to build stronger relationship

IN an effort to meet the requirement to access sponsorship from many of the major companies emerging in Guyana, the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) has become legally incorporated. This was announced yesterday at a press conference held at Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO). To tap into companies and their Corporate-Social Responsibility, GCA executive indicated they had to change their status to a body corporate. With the unanimous

support of the clubs under the umbrella, the Incorporation of the GCA was done under the Companies Act 1991 as a Charitable Non-Profit Company with no shared capital and was published in the Official Gazette on April 16, 2022. They will still use the name Georgetown Cricket Association, as the incorporated status is there to meet the legal and financial requirements during transactions. Attorney-at-Law Adrian Smith further clarified that this in no way harms their rela-

tionship with the Demerara Cricket Board since the incorporation is provided for under the Cricket Administration Act of 2014. These actions are also aimed at ensuring the association is tax compliant, according to treasurer Imran Ally. “(That is) One of the reasons we took our association to have it incorporated, and yes to have the TIN (Taxpayers Identification Number), but also the reason is to be compliant. When you go to these big companies the first thing they are going to ask you is: ‘Are you tax

Jofra Archer ruled out of season (CMC) – Barbados-born England fast bowler Jofra Archer has been hit with injury again, ruling him out of the entire season and dealing yet another blow to his topsy-turvy career. The 27-year-old, who spent several months in the Caribbean island recently recovering from elbow surgery, has now been diagnosed with a stress fracture of the lower back. Archer, who has not played for England in 14 months, was on the verge of making a competitive comeback as early as next week in Surrey’s clash with Glamorgan in the T20 Blast. “After being diagnosed with a stress fracture to the lower back, England and Sussex seamer Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the rest of the season,” the England Cricket Board said in a statement. “No timeframe has been set for his return. A manage-

Jofra Archer ment plan will be determined following further specialist opinion over the coming days.” The latest blow means Archer will miss the domestic assignments in the T20 Blast and the Hundred, along with the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia. Archer made his England debut to much fanfare three years ago before becoming

one of the side’s heroes – bowling a nerve-jangling Super Over – as they won the 2019 World Cup in a thrilling final at Lord’s. He went on to star in the Ashes later that year in his debut Test series, snatching 22 wickets, bowling with searing pace and famously hitting batting star Steve Smith on the helmet in the second Test also at Lord’s. Despite his unavailability for 2022, Archer was still picked up by Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Mumbai Indians for the ongoing season. Archer has taken 42 wickets in 13 Tests, 30 wickets from 17 One-Day Internationals and 14 scalps in 12 T20s for England. He played a handful of matches for West Indies Under-19s nine years ago before turning his attention to representing England, the birthplace of his father.

compliant, do you have a TIN certificate?’ and that is the only way they are going to give you funds and we have encountered some of that before,” Ally explained.

In the past, the issue of non-compliance to the various laws meant some of their tournaments lacked the required sponsorship but it

was revealed the legal changes have seen a recommitment from the sponsors, and as such, the GCA will soon launch some major tournaments.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

Major League Cricket secures US$120M funding from investors

MAJOR League Cricket (MLC) is pleased to announce it has completed an initial closure of a $44M Series A and A1 Fundraising Round, led by a group of America’s most successful and respected business leaders. With an additional commitment of $76M in further fundraising over the next 12 months in place, MLC plans to deploy more than $120M to launch the country’s first-ever professional Twenty20 cricket league and open a new era for the world’s second most popular sport in the

United States. Investor groups for the Series A and A1 Fundraising Round, which includes MLC’s seed funding round, were led by: • Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft) and Soma Somasegar (Managing Director, Madrona Venture Group) • Anand Rajaraman and Venky Harinarayan (Founding Partners at Milliways Ventures and Rocketship VC) • Sanjay Govil (Founder and Chairman of Infinite Computer Solutions and CEO, Zyter) • Anurag Jain (Manag-

ing Partner of Perot Jain, LP, Chairman of Access Healthcare) and Ross Perot Jr (Chairman, The Perot Group) • Tanweer Ahmed (CEO, PAK Foods, CEO, OUR Energy and Owner of Prairie View Cricket Complex) • The Baheti Family (Owners of YASH Technologies) Additional participating investors in this round, along with the full list of MLC’s original seed investors, are listed below. “The significant funding committed by an outstanding group of investors will allow

Major League Cricket Grand Stadium Major League Cricket to build first-class facilities and accelerate the sport’s development across the country, bringing world-class professional cricket to the world’s largest sports market,” said Sameer Mehta and Vijay Srinivasan, co-founders, Major League Cricket. “This investor group com-

prises leading business executives and successful tech entrepreneurs who have led some of the world’s most prominent companies. They bring tremendous experience and expertise in support of MLC’s plans to launch a transformative Twenty20 league and establish America as one of the world’s leading

homes for international cricket events.” The $120M investment into MLC will primarily be dedicated to building premier cricket-specific stadia and training centres to develop a new generation of American star cricketers. This unprecedented infrastructure investment will transform the landscape for professional cricket and enable the United States to host global events over the next decade and beyond. As well as international games, world-class T20 action will be played annually with MLC bringing the best cricketers in the world to play in cricket-specific venues with natural turf wickets and first-class amenities for fans. MLC was advised by Hogan Lovells, a global law firm and leader in the sports, media and entertainment industry. (USA Cricket)

UDFA ‘Return to Play’ Senior League …

Haynes Winners Connection collide with Capital FC, Topp XX face Milerock

TWO intriguing clashes are anticipated this evening when the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) ‘Return to Play’ Senior League continues with a double-header. Haynes Winners Connection face Capital FC in the first game from 18:00hrs and in the second game Topp XX battle Milerock at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. After more than two years of no competition in the UDFA League the purists are curious about the current level of competitiveness and daresay no club has an advantage. Wi n n e r s C o n n e c t i o n come into this league with the enviable record of being one of the best teams in Linden, having won three UDFA GT Beer year-end tournaments and must be considered a dangerous team. They will rely on players like Reynard Caesar and Andre Phillips in defence, Malachi Todd and Anthony Layne in the middle while up front will be Akeem Caesar and Kevin Dare. Their opponents can be

deemed the new kids on the block but cannot be taken lightly. Coached by Junior ‘Coot’ Inniss this young team have as their captain Andre Mayers, an upcoming player with great potential who will be at midfield with David Fiedtkou while up front is Tyric McAllister in their hunt for goals while the defence will be around Omari Ramsammy and Jamal Almond. The second game at 20:00hrs is expected to be highly competitive since the history of these two teams cannot be overlooked. Both Topp XX and Milerock would want to start on a winning note on this 13-team tournament. Topp XX, coached by former national player Michael McKinnon, will be the more known team on the field of play tonight since they have several returning players, like former national player Travis Waterton who will be steadying things in the middle. His experience will be needed in this league and with him will be Carlos

Grant and Ryan Noel, with forwards Keion Hall, Jamal Bentick and Abraham Browne while the back line will have players the calibre of young Omari Gordon, Javin Crawford and Ruel Williams with Gregory Hinds in goal. This new look Milerock team, coached by Errol Dainty, will be interesting to watch since it is studded with exciting teenagers like midfield player Ramjan Ramdehol and striker Marcus Tudor. Both these players were members of the National Under-15 team back in 2018. Tudor,, another player with great potential, along with midfield player Neil Kennedy being thrown into league. Veteran Rawle ‘Boney’ Gittens’ presence will be key to their play even as he comes off the bench. Another two matches in this senior league championship are scheduled to be played on Sunday at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

BCB/Cricket Kindness/Bat for a Chance Project …

Primary, Secondary Schools receive cricket gear

THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is forging ahead with its cricket developmental programme by assisting several primary and secondary schools with cricket gear. The donations were made over the last week under the BCB/Cricket Kindness and Bat for a Chance project. Among the schools receiving gear were Line Path Secondary, Lower Corentyne Secondary, Vryman’s Erven Secondary, Fort Wellington Secondary, Rosignol Primary, No 8 Primary School, All Saints Primary, Cumberland Primary, Rose Hall Town Primary, Port Mourant Primary, No 71 Massiah Primary and Crabwood Creek Primary . BCB president Hilbert Foster stated that the donations of the gear to the schools are part of a comprehensive programme to make sure that the county continues to produce players of the highest standard. Foster stated that the board believes that schools are the nursery for producing Under-13 and Under-15 players for clubs. The schools, he stated, were carefully selected as they are closely aligned to the game. Berbice has since 1948 produced 19 Test players

Some of the students with their cricket gear including the legendary John kesh Motie, Anthony BramTrim, Rohan Kanhai, Basil ble, Clinton Pestano, Kevin Butcher, Alvin Kallicharran Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Jonathan and Roy Fredericks. The BCB’s main objec- Foo, Nial Smith and Keon tive currently is to increase Joseph are all household that amount while producing names in Guyana. The county has a lot of other players for the West Indies at the Under-15, Un- promising players including der-19, One Day Internation- Rampertab Rampersaud, Isai al, 20/20 and female levels. Thorne, Jonathan RamperThat county success con- saud, Kelvin Umroa, Zeynul tinued last Wednesday when Ramsammy, Trisha Hardatt, Demetri Cameron became Adrian Hetmyer, Ashmini the latest Berbician to gain Munisar, Leon Cecil, Jereselection to the national se- my Sandia and Christopher nior team. Deroop. Cameron is the latest Foster urged the adof exciting players to come ministration of the schools from the county while three to place emphasis on getfemale players are also cur- ting girls involved in the rent West Indies players. game and also stated that Others like Romario the board would provide Shepherd, Shimron Hetmyer, coaches if requested under Veersammy Permaul, Guda- its Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh

Training Programme. The BCB is currently working on a project to assist each secondary school in the county with two boxes of balls and gear. An overseas-based Berbician has reached out to Foster to assist in this regard while other areas in the programme would include the hosting of tournaments for schools. Administrators at the different schools expressed gratitude to the BCB, Ms Tamara Lowe of Cricket Kindness and Wilf Gafney of Bat for a Chance. The board would also like to express thanks to Minister Charles Ramson for the role he played in getting the gear duty-free into the country.

Chanderpaul (140*), Motie (110) put Harpy Eagles in commanding position … Barbados Pride 48-2 in response to Eagles’ 490-7 CONTRASTING centuries from Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Gudakesh Motie have given Guyana Harpy Eagles the upper hand after day two of their Regional Four-Day match against Barbados Pride at the Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago. At stumps, Pride are 48-2, still trailing by 442 after Eagles piled on 490-7 declared, led by the two centurions. Shayne Moseley (17*) and Shai Hope yet to score will be the men to resume battle today as Veerasammy Permaul (1-2) and Keemo Paul (1-18) dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite (17) and Shamarh Brooks (2) before close of play. Chanderpaul, who started the day on 64 went unto make his third first-class century -140 (14x4) from 434 balls - and found a solid partner in Gudakesh Motie who scored his maiden century. Motie made 110 from just 118 balls and hammered 12 fours and four maximums as the former West Indies Under-19 teammates added 143 for the seventh wicket. Chanderpaul and Anthony Bramble, who retired hurt on 38, had extended their partnership to 53 on a day where the Barbadian bowlers chased a lot of leather. Debutant pacer Akeem Jordan was the most successful with 3-108 from 30 overs while Raymon Reifer had 2-37 from 15 overs and Keon Harding 1-104 from 24 overs. Test spinner Jomel Warrican went wicket-less in his 28.4 overs which leaked 81 runs. In the other matches: At Diego Martin: Leeward Hurricanes 357 (Kieran Powell 139, Amir Jangoo 58, Jeremiah Louis 42; Jayden Seales 5-49) & 23-0 (Powell 13*) v Trinidad and Tobago Red Force 140 (Joshua DaSilva 65, Bryan Charles 25; Colin Archibald 4-27, Louis 4-32) At Tarouba: Windward Volcanoes 137 (Keron Cottoy 50, Kavem Hodge 23; Marquino Mindley 5-20, Nicholson Gordon 4-43) & 101-3 (Devon Smith 34, Hodge 30*; Derval Green 2-35) v Jamaica Scorpions 346 (Brandon King 119, Jamie Merchant 58, John Campbell 48; Preston McSween 4-96, Josh Thomas 3-56).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2022

GCA incorporates with sponsors to build stronger relationship Story on page 25

From left: GCA secretary Deborah McNichols, Attorney-at-Law Adrian Smith, GCA president Neil Barry Sr, Second vice-president Roger Harper, Chairman of Competitions Shaun Massiah, and treasurer Imran Ally after the press conference yesterday.

Chanderpaul (140*), Motie (110) put Harpy Eagles in commanding position

Kohli breaks jinx to keep RCB in the running Story on page 23

Story on page 27

Virat Kohli makes it known how important the half-century was by gesturing towards the sky (BCCI)

Tagenarine Chanderpaul scored his third first-class century Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2022