Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_24_10-2022

Happy Diwali!

Diwali motorcade makes grand return!

Ali hails coming together of Guyanese, unifying nature of the Festival

By Cassandra Khan

THOUSANDS of people turned out on Sunday to witness the return of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Diwali Motor cade after a two-year hiatus, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Families and friends all gathered to see the floats, as well as the Grand Stage Programme at the LA Bonne Intention (LBI) Community

Centre Ground on the East Coast Demerara.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, addressing the gathering at the LBI Ground, praised the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, the founder of the Diwali motorcade here, for his work in propagating Hinduism and the Hindu culture and tradition in Guyana.

He also extended greetings to all Guya nese, especially those of the Hindu commu nity.

“Diwali recalls the welcome return of Rama, Sita and Lakshman to Ayodhya. The festival also reminds us of the blessings of fortune bestowed by Lakshmi,” the Presi dent said in an earlier message to mark the occasion.

President Ali related that Diwali is ob served through worship, the sharing of sweet meats and gifts, and outpourings of affection, kindness, and friendliness toward others.

The cleaning, decorating and illumination of homes reflect the pride and reverence at tached to the observance of this festival.

“This sacred festival erupts in spectacu lar, bright, colourful and lively expressions, symbolic of the drowning out of negativity and despondency and the banishing of illwill, malice and division,” he said.

Uncle Bobby, 83, still tills the soil

Diwali motorcade makes grand return

- President Ali hails coming together of Guyanese, unifying nature of the Festival of Lights

foretells the inevitable triumph of good over evil, the supersession of knowl edge and truth over igno rance and dishonesty, and the primacy of unity over disunity.

President Ali noted that the unity of the nation is essential to the objec tive of shared prosperity.

By Cassandra Khan

THOUSANDS of people turned out on Sunday to

“Diwali recalls the wel come return of Rama, Sita and Lakshman to Ayod hya. The festival also re

“Diwali is a time for families, friends and foes to come together and cel ebrate the shared bonds of humanity. The noble ideals associated with this dazzling and illuminative festival remind us that the greatest gifts, which life and divine providence have bestowed upon us, are meant to be shared with our fellow brothers and sisters,” the Head of State related.

Under the ‘One Guyana’ banner, Guyanese are coming together, rejecting the forces of division and hatred, and uniting in the

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud said there are over 30 partici pants in this year’s mo torcade.

“It seems like people are inspired; it is a unify ing force. It really repre

many ways, the beauty of the spirit behind the float, the beauty of people com ing together, the beauty of everyone sharing love, and the beauty of finding the light within sharing it.

The Guyana Chroni cle spoke to some spec

witness the return of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Diwali Motor cade after a two-year hia tus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Families and friends all gathered to see the floats as well as the Grand Stage Programme at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Community Centre Ground on the East Coast Demerara.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, addressing the gath ering at the LBI Ground, praised the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, who started the Diwali mo torcade here, for his work in propagating Hinduism and the Hindu culture and tradition in Guyana.

He also extended greet ings to all Guyanese, espe cially those of the Hindu community.

minds us of the blessings of fortune bestowed by Lakshmi,” the President said in an earlier message to mark the occasion.

President Ali related that Diwali is observed through worship, the shar ing of sweetmeats and gifts, and outpourings of affection, kindness, and friendliness towards oth ers.

The cleaning, decorat ing and illumination of the home reflect the pride and reverence attached to the observance of this festival.

“This sacred festi val erupts in spectacular, bright, colourful and lively expressions, symbolic of the drowning out of nega tivity and despondency, and the banishing of illwill, malice and division,” President Ali said.

He noted that Diwali

He added: “The sacred texts of Hinduism direct that all Creation is infused with oneness; a divine spark exists in all of us.”

pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity.

“May the spirit of Di wali, celebrated with such fervour in our country, help to fuse our people closer together, respecting our ethnic diversity, setting aside division, and uniting all in pursuit of the com mon good!” he said, as he urged the gathering to remember those who lost their lives to COVID-19.

Through much hard work, the government has stood strong in response to chal lenges occasioned by the pandemic, floods and other incidents over the past two years.

sents Guyana and how we celebrate our diversity; how we celebrate each other, and how open we are to respecting and un derstanding each other’s space and culture,” said Minister Persaud, who is also the president of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

Minister Persaud was extremely happy that Guy ana is showing the world, once again, how Guy ana celebrates Diwali, and the motorcade, which is “iconic”.

She noted that this is spiritual, and it is such a thing of beauty and in

tators at the motorcade who shared that they were happy to be out again, af ter the two-year hiatus.

Karan Simerson, who would normally come out every year with her moth er, said the motorcade met every expectation she had.

Cheni Rockliff and her two-year-old son, who was attending his first motorcade, were amazed by the lights. Rockcliff said she was glad to be back out en joying the floats, and is happy that her son can be exposed to the culture, even though they are Christians.

One of the floats at the motorcade (Carl Croker photo)

A float making its way to the LBI Ground (Carl Croker photo)

A section of the gathering at the LBI Ground (Carl Croker photo)

The floats were a sight to behold (Carl Croker photo)

Sunak clear favourite to become Britain’s next Prime Minister

UK former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pulled out of the contest to become the next Conservative Party leader and therefore the next prime minister.

Johnson claimed to have garnered the support of 100 MPs – the minimum number required to clear the thresh old to appear on the ballot for the Conservative Party membership – but declined to run, saying “this would simply not be the right thing to do” as “you can’t govern effectively unless you have a united party in Parliament,” according to the PA Media news agency.

His announcement comes after Britain’s former Finance Minister Rishi Sunak official ly entered the race to lead

the Conservative Party, his second attempt at the position this year.

Sunak has already col lected the required 100 nom inations from Tory party members in order to run. Su nak had attempted to become leader during the summer following the resignation of Johnson, but lost to Liz Truss who stepped down on Thursday.

A runoff between the two men could have proved divi sive for the ruling Conserva tive party, not least because many of Johnson’s supporters blame Sunak’s resignation in July for sparking the down fall of his government. The Conservatives, in power for 12 years, are currently en gulfed in turmoil following

the resignations of both John son and Truss.

The possible return of Johnson to the top job had split opinions within the Con servative Party, with many lawmakers horrified at the prospect of a second Johnson premiership. He resigned in July following a series of scandals.

The former PM is expect ed to appear in the next few weeks before the Commons Privileges Committee which is investigating whether he misled Parliament over the parties, which could poten tially see him suspended or expelled as an MP.

Sunak declared on Sun day morning that he would be standing in the contest. In a tweet, he wrote, “The United

Kingdom is a great country but we face a profound eco nomic crisis. That’s why I am standing to be Leader of the Conservative Party and your next Prime Minister. I want to fix our economy, unite our party and deliver for our country.”

After Johnson’s Sunday announcement that he would not seek the become the next Conservative Party leader, Sunak tweeted, “Boris John son delivered Brexit and the great vaccine roll-out. He led our country through some of the toughest challenges we have ever faced, and then took on Putin and his barbar ic war in Ukraine. We will always be grateful to him for that.”

Sunak will be up against

Leader of the House of Com mons Penny Mordaunt, who said Sunday she regretted the so-called “mini budget” that led to economic turmoil in Britain and the resignation of Truss.

“I very much regret the mini-budget … I raised con cerns even before I was in Cabinet,” Mordant told the BBC in a Sunday interview, adding there were details about the budget “the Cabinet was not aware of.”

The last time the Con servatives held a leadership race – following the demise of Johnson’s government – Truss came first, Sunak second and Mordaunt third.

Graham Brady, the Conservative official re sponsible for the process,

has said any candidate must receive at least 100 nomina tions from the party’s MPs by 14:00hrs on Monday. (CNN)

Former Chancellor, Rishi Sunak (CNN photo)

India celebrates Diwali with dazzling display of lights

INDIA’S streets and homes were lit up with colourful lanterns and glowing lamps as millions celebrate the Hindu festival of Diwali. A time for feasts, prayers and fireworks, Diwali is one of the most important fes tivals in India. It is known as the Festival of Lights as people illuminate oil lamps

or candles to symbolise the triumph of light over dark ness and good over evil.

People illuminate their homes with oil lamps and draw rangolis – traditional designs made using colourful powders – outside their doors to welcome good luck and positivity into their lives.

Families gather to offer

prayers, light fireworks and enjoy festive meals. People visit friends and family and exchange sweets, gifts and good wishes.

The exact dates of the festival change each year and are determined by the position of the moon, but it typically falls between Octo ber and November. This year,

Diwali is being celebrated on Monday.

For the past two years, due to the COVID-19 pan demic, festivities were held with restrictions or were cancelled altogether.

However this year, with restrictions being lifted, people are celebrating the festival with gusto. (BBC)

People draw rangolis for good luck

Millions of Indians celebrate Diwali

Thousands throng markets to shop for Diwali goods

People wear traditional garments and visit friends and family

No wavering on this waiver!

GUYANESE at home and abroad, includ ing the private and public sectors, have warmly welcomed the recent visa waiver allowing holders of Guyanese passports to travel to the UK for up to six months, without staying to study, live or work.

It follows much lobbying from the pri vate sector, civil society and government and all agree it represents another sign of the confidence the UK has in the growth of its relationship with Guyana under the current administration, also following meetings President, Dr Irfaan Ali, had with former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and others.

President Ali has naturally called on Guyanese not to abuse this novel opportuni ty, saying the two countries will be working “very closely” to guard against abuse, as the government plans using the UK’s case as a springboard to lobby for visa-free travel to other countries, including Schengen visas required to travel to many European Union (EU) nations.

The president’ s warning cannot be underestimated or over-stressed, as there’s so much at stake in terms of the business, trade and tourism opportunities available both ways.

Guyana has become the UK’s largest trading partner in the Caribbean, amounting in 2021 to 516 million pounds or 21.6 per cent of UK-Caribbean trade.

The agreement also comes at a time when Guyana enjoys a trade balance surplus with the UK as of last year, with local 2021 exports accounting for 6.5 per cent of all, while imports accounted for 1.7 per cent, with the overall trade balance surplus at US $208 million.

Trade is a two-way street and in Feb ruary, a British business delegation visited Guyana canvassing potential investment opportunities and another is expected next month, with more reciprocal missions also being encouraged.

The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) urges members to ac

tively seek diversified prospects for actual business, participation and representation in UK-based business forums, trade fairs and programmes that will facilitate improved in ternational relations among the Guyana-UK private sectors, leveraging resources and opportunities between Guyana and the UK, which is essential for expanded access to improved products and services across all industries between both countries.

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) says the decision “demonstrates the strength of our economy, signals the ease of travel, deepening of co-operation and collaboration between the UK and Guyana, and will bring great value to our growing private sector.”

The Georgetown Chamber of Com merce and Industry (GCCI) noted this move “bodes well for Guyana and the UK in terms of improving and strengthening bilateral trade relations between the two countries, while promoting the free movement of peo ple to the UK.”

In effect, the response to the waiver

is such that it is imperative that Guyana not only protects it, but also ensures it is a successful venture that has multiple future benefits, not only for private sector interests, but for the public at large.

In actuality, what it means is that any Guyanese national (or holder of a Guyanese passport) no longer needs to contemplate the dissuasive time-consuming agony of prov ing who they say they are, but can purchase a ticket to the UK without being asked “You have a visa?”

It also means that Guyanese exporters and private sector interests with interest in contemplating investing in and on the UK market can give some extra haste to their di rect communications with potential partners.

As such, as President Ali has said and the private sector entities have reiterated since the announcement, this is one of those benefits the nation has to seriously protect and guarantee, with as much assurance possible, that there is no wa vering on this important waiver.

May all negativities be extinguished with the brightness of Diwali

Dear Editor,

HAPPY Diwali Oh Guyana.

Head of HSS Guyana, Ravi Dev, a prom inent and powerful proclaimer and protector of Dharma universally, proclaims, “One of the most important lessons that Dharma, which is the religious and moral law governing in dividual conduct in Hinduism, teaches that, not just one group but a collective effort from all Guyanese is needed to bring ‘goodness’ in society, so that Guyana can reach its full potential.” Today, Guyana and the rest of the world welcome the third of the five-day festive season of lights, Diwali or Deepavali. There is only one way to remove darkness--whether physical, psychological or platonic--and that is, by providing light. President, Dr Irfaan Ali ably reminded us, “When we speak about life [sic] overcoming darkness, it is light creating a way through darkness that is different from what darkness offers. It is not just physical life; it is removing what light offers against what darkness offers.” Beyond the lights, laughter, leisure, food, fun, frolic, fashion, fea tures, gifts, grace, gratitude, rituals, religious rights, reverence, ceremonies, cleaning and cultural consequences, Diwali is also a time to reflect on life and make changes for the upcoming year. With that, there are a number of customs that followers of Dharma hold dear each year. There are the philosophical concepts and principles that can be placed into perspective for consideration and implementa tion. It is a ripe time for preaching, teaching, learning, implementing and reminding:

1) Give and forgive. It is a common prac tice that people forget and forgive the wrongs done by others during Diwali. There is an air of freedom, festivity, and friendliness every where. This is a momentous occasion to hug and embrace after any lapse due to differences and indifferences. Do take the time to reach out to the needs of the less fortunate.

2) Rise and shine. Waking up during the Brahmamuhurta (at 4AM or 1.5 hours before sunrise), is a great blessing from the stand point of health, ethical discipline, efficiency in work, and spiritual advancement. The sages who instituted this Deepawali custom may have hoped that their descendants would realise its benefits and make it a regular habit in their lives. Yoga, pranayama, meditation or regular exercise are the tenets of good apti tudes and attitudes to cultivate.

3) Unite and unify. Diwali is a unifying event, and it can soften even the hardest of hearts. It is a time when people mingle about in joy and embrace one another. Those with keen inner spiritual ears will clearly hear the voice of the sages, “O children of God unite, and love all.” The vibrations produced by the greetings of love, which fill the atmosphere, are powerful. When the heart has consider ably hardened, only a continuous celebration of Deepavali can rekindle the urgent need of turning away from the ruinous path of hatred.

4) Prosper and progress. On this day, Hindu merchants in North India open their new account books and pray for success and prosperity during the coming year. People buy new clothes for the family. Employers, too,

purchase new clothes for their employees. Homes are cleaned and decorated by day and illuminated by night with earthen oil lamps. The best and finest illuminations can be seen from Berbice to Demerara and throughout, to Essequibo. The famous Golden Temple at Amritsar in India is lit in the evening with thousands of lamps. This festival instills charity in the hearts of people, who perform good deeds. This includes Goverdhan Pooja, a celebration by Vaishnavites on the fourth day of Diwali. On this day, they feed the poor on an incredible scale.

5) Illuminate your inner self. The lights of Diwali also signify a time of inner illumina tion. Hindus believe that the light of lights is the one that steadily shines in the chamber of the heart. Sitting quietly and fixing the mind on this supreme light illuminates the soul. It is an opportunity to cultivate and enjoy eternal bliss.

6) From Darkness on to Light. In each legend, myth, and story of Deepawali lies the significance of the victory of good conquer ing evil, truth prevailing over untruth and nescience being replaced by enlightenment. It is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts that this simple truth finds new reason and hope. From darkness on to light—the light empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds and brings us closer to divinity. During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of the world, and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of firecrackers, joy, togetherness, and hope. Diwali is celebrated

in Guyana and around the world. Outside of India, it is more than a Hindu festival; it’s a celebration of South-Asian identities, Hindus, followers, observers and other participants. If you are away from the sights and sounds of Diwali, light a diya, sit quietly, shut your eyes, withdraw the senses, concentrate on this supreme light, and illuminate the soul.

This Diwali season is truncated with so many deaths due to COVID-19, other illness es, traffic accidents and crime in Guyana.

Let us light a special Diya for all the de parted souls we have lost and say a special prayer in their memory.

Let us pray also for the well-being of all the leaders of this country and the rest of the world to always do what is best and right for the people, by exercising wisdom, care and good judgement.

May all negativities be extinguished from everyone, especially the sick, oppressed and depressed, with the brightness of Diwali.

President Ali wished the nation happy Di wali by including, “…Today, as we will turn the light on, let’s also turn our hearts into mo ments of reflection and examine what small or big change may be necessary in achieving this part (having hope over fear; having knowledge over ignorance; having freedom over bondage; having unity over division), that we also want for our beautiful country and for our families.”

Shubh Diwali to you, your family, friends and neighbours of all of Guyana.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Petro Dollars and Sense!

Part 5: Oil and Gas

By Earl Bousquet

LIKE everywhere else, reading mainstream and social media reports, in this case about Guyana’s oil & gas experiences, can be good or bad news -- depending on who’s writing and reading what, where and when, no matter how.

Of late, I’ve read media criticisms and complaints of vir tually everything so far undertaken in energy matters by the current PPP/Civic administration, including (but not limited to) the following:

Agreements with the oil majors sell Guyana short; gov ernment’s ‘inability to see’ where and how it’s being out smarted by the oil companies; approval of more oil projects is ‘detrimental’ to Guyana’s future; a gas-to-shore project is ‘ill-conceived,’ because it ‘won’t improve electricity’; the absence of ‘whistleblower protection legislation’ ; govern ment’s ‘silence’ on an audit of the earnings of the biggest local oil investor; don’t allow ‘greedy foreigners’ to destroy Guyana; Guyana’s welfare is more important that oil & gas -- and the latest related columns by Christopher Ram and Dr Clive Thomas, et al.

One interesting headline was that ‘Guyana Won’t Become Next Dubai Without Foreign Expertise and Development of Entrepreneurial Talent’ – this one alongside another an nouncing ‘Exxon Seeking Project Manager for Construction of Training Institute in Guyana’ that stated, in part:

‘ExxonMobil Guyana is seeking a project manager for the construction of the national oil and gas training institute it is building, in partnership with the Guyana Government. The institution, styled the Guyana Technical Training Centre Inc., will be situated at Port Mourant, Berbice…’

I also noted the following headlines (among many others): Guyana Opens Tenders For Its First Oil Refinery; CNOOC Petroleum Opens Local Headquarters; Guyana Be ing Positioned To Be A Leader in Renewable Energy; Guy ana’s Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Expected in Four Months; Law Empowers Local Content Secretariat to Have Unrestricted Access to Oil Companies’ Facilities, Records & Reports; Catering Consortium to be Formed to Supply Food to Oil and Gas Vessels; Local Educator Says Rapid Develop ment of Skills Must Be High on Guyana’s Agenda; Guyana, Qatar Discuss Avenues for Growth in O&G Sector; Con struction of topsides commences in Singapore for Exxon’s 4th Guyana FPSO; ExxonMobil Guyana Pumps $3.6M into New Era Futsal Tournament; Government Invites Proposals for Oil Refinery at Crab island; Almost US$1 Billion in Oil

Chronicles of a Chronic Guyana Chronicler

By Earl Bousquet

Revenue Could be Plugged into Guyana’s 2023 Budget; Guy ana Rakes-in Biggest Windfall from Quarterly Oil Production; Oil Money Helping To Ease Impact of Inflation -- and More Guyana Barrels Will Go to Europe.

The story on almost US$1 Billion Pumped Into Guyana’s 2023 Budget, reported by OilNOW, said: ‘Guyana’s updated Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act outlines a clear and simple formula for the calculation of withdrawals allowable from the Fund each year. Based on this formula, using US$1.247 billion expected from oil in 2022, approximately US$998.5 million is projected to be available for withdrawal and spend ing in the new year. This would represent 80 per cent of the Fund’s expected 2022 inflows. Consequently, US$248.5 million (20 per cent) remains in savings.’

The details came from the Bank of Guyana, the operation al manager for the NRF, which disclosed that ‘third-quarter inflows’ amounted to GY$102.82 billion (US$493.18 million) comprising oil profit totalling GY$92.18 billion (US$442.12 million) and royalties totalling GY$10.64 billion (US$51.06 million). The receipts of oil revenues into the fund for the period July to September, 2022, represented ‘the highest quarterly inflows’ and ‘Inclusive of royalties, the account has received US$1,444,875,131.97 in earnings since its in ception,’ which earnings are deposited in the NRF’s account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

The story on Oil & Gas revenues is being used by Guyana to reduce the impact of inflation reported: ‘Following the pas sage of the NRF legislation, the Guyana government has been able to authorise a US$607.6 million transfer to support the 2022 budget. The administration has said that the withdrawal would be used to invest heavily in capital expenditure, while supporting the critical needs of the vulnerable population. The government was keen to note that the strong oil windfall is therefore allowing the authorities to improve the standard

of living of citizens, as well as temporarily lower rates or re move taxes on selected items, including gas and diesel fuels, to mitigate the impact of rising inflation.’

The story about More Guyana Barrels To Go To Europe’ also noted: ‘With Europe scrambling for alternative energy sources in wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Guyana’s light, sweet crude has assumed greater importance to the continent’s consumers.

This was discussed by Scott B. MacDonald, Chief Economist for Smith’s Research & Gradings and Research Fellow with Global Americans, who also disclosed Guyana had exported 116,900 barrels of oil per day (bpd) of crude in 2021, most being sold to Asian countries, including China and India, while shipments to Europe accounted for around 16 per cent of the total.’

As I followed the unfolding political scene in the UK where Prime Minister Liz Truss and her six-week-old gov ernment were struggling for survival, it was interesting to note that while she accepted full blame for all that happened under her brief watch, the one thing she held on to and pointed out most repeatedly, was that never mind her leadership of the government was shorter than her leadership campaign, it had delivered on her promise to assist Britons with their energy bills.

And as I listened to PM Truss announce her immediate resignation as party leader (and as Prime Minister in a week), I knew the deepening political impasse will most likely delay any deal between London and Georgetown for transatlantic oil & gas transfers; but

I also knew that what was on Guyanese minds most last week wasn’t the future of trade between the UK and Guyana, but rather the visa waiver that’ll allow everyone with a Guyana passport to visit Britain and stay for six months – no matter who’s the next UK PM!

UK visa waiver opens up more opportunities for local businesses

LOCAL businesses will have more opportunities to explore trade relations in the United Kingdom with the new visa waiver recently announced by the British High Commis sioner to Guyana, Jane Miller.

Chief Investment Of ficer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO- In vest), Dr Peter Ramsaroop, said Guyanese businesses were confined to trade in the European market be cause of the visa restric

tions imposed by the UK Government.

“They were going [to] other places United States, China. Now, our businesses can do more trading with Europe. So outward out of Guyana, going into the UK, coming now from the UK, it opens up Guyana to the investment opportuni ties,” Dr Ramsaroop told the Department of Public Information (DPI) recently.

The Chief Investment Officer said it is up to local businesses to now ensure

competitiveness in the Eu ropean market.

“We have to look at where we benefit both from an incoming perspective but better more, our busi nesses to look at outgoing. How do we get our prod ucts to the European mar ket? How do we compete with other nations in that area? How do we make sure that our products are competitive? I am more interested in the outgoing than as much as incoming,” he said.

Dr Ramsaroop also made mention of British Airways which will begin flying di rectly to Guyana in the new year, also assisting in the ex pansion of trade opportuni ties between the two nations.

“There are so many op portunities in the broad er Europe, even the Arab world, the Asia world [they] will now fly to Lon don as their hub coming to Guyana.”

It was for this reason that Dr Ramsaroop urged local tourism operators to

be prepared for an expan sion of eco-tourism from the European market.

Guyanese with valid passports will no longer be required to get visas to travel to the United King dom from November 9, 2022. They can stay in the UK for up to six months.

The British High Commissioner said the visa waiver signals the UK’s confidence in the growth of the relationship between the two coun tries. (DPI)

GO-Invest CEO Dr Peter Ramsaroop

Breast Cancer Awareness and important conversations

By Vanessa Cort

CELEBRATED annually in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is de voted to increasing public awareness of the disease and coming up with cre ative strategies and treat ments to combat this debil itating and life-threatening illness.

And this month I am re minded of two friends – sisters

– who lost their fight against breast cancer Their mother died decades earlier of uterine cancer. So, in their case, the words of Professor Helen Kro ntiras, MD, of the University of Atlanta rang true when she said : “ It is important to ask questions about family history because having a family history of breast cancer and some other cancer does increase the risk of cancer.”

Dr Krontiras, who is the

Director of the Division of Breast and Endocrine Surgery at the university ’s School of Medicine, urged early screening for those with cancer in their family history, but also pointed out that, “All people who have breasts should participate in breast self awareness .” This means that men are not immune from the disease, though only about one per cent of breast cancers diagnosed are male However, everyone is en

couraged to self examine their breasts and notify a physician of any changes, such as lumps, skin alteration, nipple discharge and even nipple inversion.

Although my friends were able to detect their breast cancer relatively early, the cancer metastasised rapidly. While one sister opted for a double mastectomy (removal of the breasts), the other one was reluctant to do so and even went out of the coun try for consultations. She, however, succumbed after a period of treatment but lived longer than her sibling with the disease.

I wondered at the older sister’s reluctance to have the mastecomy done , thinking it would be the safer option, until I learned of the shock those with the disease experienced when given the diagnosis, the considerable side effects and the worries about a recurrence

Recent research also in dicates she may have been on the right track as the type of surgery young women with early stage breast cancer opt for may affect the quality of their lives for many years

One study suggests that women who choose surgery to remove just the tumour and some healthy tissue nearby , may enjoy a better quality of life than those who had one or both breasts removed

Laura Dominici, MD, and Associate Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School, ob served that, “…surgical choices that women with breast cancer make can have an impact on their long term quality of life.” Hence, she urged clinicians to “have conversations” with pa tients about the various surgical options available to them

Results from the study show that certain surgical treat ments , aimed at breast con

serving, are effective and less risky than having the breasts removed Monica Morrow, a surgi cal oncologist with a practice dedicated to the treatment of breast cancer, pointed out that women with early stage breast cancer have a low risk of de veloping cancer in the other breast She however noted that the majority of women are still choosing mastectomies

She recommended that in formation on surgical options should be conveyed to women along with , “… the lack of survival benefit and higher risk of surgical complications with mastectomy.”

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, nationally recognised in 1985 , the aim was originally to increase early detection of the disease by urging women to have mammo grams Since then it has risen in popularity and more attention is now being paid to this issue

According to Community

Health of Central Washington, “ Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide ” and the goal of the Month is to “get as many people as possible involved in raising awareness and funds to help support life saving research and life changing support.”

The organisation noted that there is currently not enough knowledge on what causes breast cancer so early detection of the disease, “…remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control.”

The colour pink has been chosen to represent breast can cer awareness and many choose to wear a pink ribbon pinned to their clothing or perhaps an item in pink.

And as Dr Krontiras summed it up, “Despite ex cellent treatment options, we want to get to the point where we don’t have to treat cancer – where people don’t get can cer to begin with.”

Duo arrested after police find cannabis

THE police on Saturday conducted a cordon and search exercise at Broad and Lombard Streets which led to the discov ered of a quantity of cannabis and the arrest of two men

In a press release, the police said that between 13:30hrs and 14:45hrs on Saturday, ranks conducted the exercise during which a black bulky plastic bag containing a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis, was found

The suspected cannabis when weighed amounted to approximately 30 grammes

Subsequently, a 23 year old man was seen running from the yard Ranks gave chase and managed to arrest him A search was carried out on his person and the immediate sur roundings and a transparent Ziploc bag with contents suspected to be cannabis was found It weighed some 3.6 grammes

Further, the police acting on information, made their way to Meadow Bank where they made contact with a 27 year old vendor A search was carried out and a plastic bag con

taining suspected cannabis was found The police said this amounted to some 205 grammes

Investigations into the matters are cur rently in progress.

312 Bare Root families to receive land titles before year-end

SOME 312 families of Bare Root, an area located aback Bachelor’s Adventure, East Coast Demerara (ECD), will finally receive their Certificates of Title to their lands by the end of the year.

This assurance was giv en by Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, on Friday. Minister Rodrigues said that the ministry’s Central Hous ing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is working to en sure that the age-old issue is resolved.

For decades, the resi dents of the village have been without formal property rights for their lands. Surveys of the area were done in 2004, 2009 and 2017 respec tively; however, there were some discrepancies which were rectified during the final survey in June 2022.

During her engagement with the residents, Minister Rodrigues explained that while some persons would have received land titles some years ago, it was done based on a plan which has a number of inconsistencies.

She said that a new plan was done that accurately reflects what was on the ground and so, some of those titles will have to be adjust ed.

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, engaging one of the residents at Bare Root (DPI photo)

“So, I’m making a public plea for us to work together. I want all 312 to receive their titles… So, in order for us to get to the end of this process, where each and every one of you will have an outstanding title to receive, we have to work together,” she implored the residents.

The minister reiterated the PPP/ C Government’s commitment to ensure that every Guyanese of age has access to a piece of land,

along with the accompanying titles.

“And that is why we have committed to ensuring that all of those communities that are outstanding in terms of regularisation, that we bring them to completion in the shortest possible time.

“Our development plan and our vision is for a ‘one Guyana’ and for bringing development to every single person in every single com munity.”

As part of the national housing programme, gov ernment will ensure that residents in every commu nity have access to basic necessities such as roads and bridges, drainage, water and electricity, as well as recre ational facilities.

Six roads will be up graded in the community to the tune of tune of $407 million. Tenders are out for the project and works will commence by year-end.

Minister Rodrigues said the project is part of a joint initiative between the Hous ing, Local Government and Public Works ministries, where over 1,000 community roads will be constructed or upgraded.

Further, a US$7.8 mil lion water-treatment plant is set to be constructed in Bachelor’s Adventure. The water- treatment plant will serve communities from Coldingen to Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara.

The minister said that the project is also at the tender ing stage and once complet ed, it will see a significant increase in water quality in the area.

During the meeting, res idents were also given the opportunity to raise other concerns with the minister, who committed to ensuring

Police recover cash, jewellery stolen during break-in

POLICE officers in Re gional Division #3 recently arrested two suspects and recovered close to $6 mil lion in cash and a quantity of jewellery which were stolen during a break-in at Coghlan Dam, West Bank Demerara.

This was disclosed by the Guyana Police Force in a release on Sunday.

It stated that $10.2 mil lion in cash and a quantity of gold jewellery valued at $680,000, property of a businessman and $2.8 million and a quantity of gold jewellery valued at $980,000 belonging to his wife were stolen during the break-in, which occurred on October 20 between 08:00hrs and 09:00hrs.

Initial investigations revealed that on October 20, the businessman’s wife secured their home and left everything intact to travel to the West Coast of De merara.

Upon her return home she discovered that the

top half of the backdoor was wrenched off. Further checks revealed that the bedroom was ransacked and the items were missing from a bag in a wardrobe, along with the jewellery from the vanity.

The police noted that further investigations lead to the arrest of two main sus pects, a 20-year-old barber and a 45-year-old farmer on

October 21.

The two suspects re portedly took the police to their Coldingen, East Coast Demerara residence where one of the suspects pointed out two areas in the yard where he claimed he dug up. He handed over $1,160,000 and $1,495,000 along with a quantity of jewellery to the police.

The police added that

the farmer took the police to an area on his farm where he dug but nothing was found. However, his wife handed over $1,495,000 and a quantity of gold jewellery, while her brother handed over some $1,660,000 to the police, which they claimed were given to them.

Investigations into the matter continue as the suspects were all arrested.

The recovered cash and jewellery (Guyana Police Force photo)

all the issues are resolved within the shortest possible time.

Representatives from the Guyana Lands and

Surveys Commission were also on the ground assisting with addressing some of the issues regarding the reg ularisation process. (DPI)

Scenes from Diwali Motorcade

Carl Croker photos

If you have a baby – read this

THE first persons who babies learn to trust are their mothers. Babies rely on their mothers for food, warmth and protection. While fathers and ex tended family members may assist in the care of the infant, mothers are usually the primary car egivers. As babies grow, whether families realise it or not, they teach babies survival skills and how to interact with others.

Some mothers have ‘baby blues’ after giving birth to their babies. They feel sad and find it hard to bond with their infants, especially if they had a dif ficult pregnancy or labour. Luckily, these low feelings usually pass after a few days, and the mother can commence (breast)-feed ing, cuddling, nurturing and enjoying her bundle of joy.

For some women, the feelings of despair and sadness may not subside. They could have postnatal depression and need as sistance from a medical professional. It is crucial for new mothers in this predicament to seek help without delay, especially as their babies need all the love, devotion and attention available during this early stage

Babies learn to make eye contact and smile at people; they show excite ment and joy when familiar faces approach them. Even though they cannot speak, they learn to communicate their likes, dislikes, anxie ties and pleasures – through interaction with the people around them.

There will come a time, usually around fourmonths-old, when ba bies attempt to put things (they grab or find) in their mouths. But through adult guidance and intervention, they learn that not every thing is meant to go there. Did you know that babies put things in their mouths for ‘oral exploration’ and not necessarily because

they are hungry?

Babies learn about the taste and texture of several objects by this method, and if something is distasteful or feels weird, the chanc es are they will not try it again. ‘Baby mouthing’ is a key stage of infant devel opment. It can also indicate that the infant’s first tooth is beginning to surface.

For babies to thrive and grow healthily, they need to attach themselves to someone they trust, who will feed and support them, love and care for them con sistently, without fail. In the majority of cases, that person is their mother.

Babies are more ac customed to their moth er’s voice which they hear from inside the womb; their mother’s arms, smell, and softness are usually their first comfort after birth. A secure attachment with a mother or caregiver leaves a child free to explore his environment and the world, knowing his security is in place. But when a child feels unsure or neglected by his caregiver, his growth is marred. Instead of learning, socialising or exploring, he is distracted and unhappy.

By 6-months-old, most babies can sit unaided as their back and neck mus cles are stronger, and with each physical achievement, their cognitive, emotional, language and social skills are also developing. They are getting ready to learn, explore and discover new things.

Caregivers can intro duce books to babies from birth, but at 4-6 months old, parents are more likely to grab the infant’s attention with pictures, shapes and colours, even if it is just for a few seconds each time.

Babies develop language skills long before they can talk. So when caregivers stimulate their young minds with stories, songs, and nursery rhymes, they give them a head start.

Sitting quietly and co

sily sharing a book with a baby is interactive and natural; the child can point to pictures and learn from their caregiver, while feel ing comfortable and secure. Babies learn less through the use of iPad, and other digital devices -- where they stare at a screen -- and more through social contact and communication. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends no screen time for children under the age of two.

Did you know that read ing to babies can create a strong bond between the adult and infant? Reading also builds a child’s im agination, vocabulary, lan guage and listening skills.

When babies lack at tachment to a primary car egiver, or if the caregiver who was once present goes away, it can have a lasting effect on the developing child’s learning and cogni tion. It is called ‘maternal deprivation’ in scientific terms. Maternal deprivation causes early-life stress; it can reprogramme an in fant’s brain and eventual behaviour in adulthood.

Children who suffer from maternal deprivation can have social and emotional difficulties and an increased tendency for aggression in childhood and beyond.

Mothers may neglect their infants or deprive them of the love and at tention needed for healthy growth because the child was unplanned. Most teenagers with babies are too young to understand the importance of their role in their child’s devel opment.

A lack of affection and support from her parents, or the absence of the ba by’s father, may mean a mother does not possess the warmth and desire to nur ture her baby adequately. There are many reasons babies, infants and children miss out on healthy attach ments, bonding and nurtur ing, but the good news is

recovery is possible once problems are identified.

By nine-months-old most babies are crawling around and exploring their world with curiosity. They can clap, babble, and even say a few words, imitating sounds encouraged by their caregiver. They need con sistent love, security, and attention from their moth

ers, fathers and caregiv ers to enable their healthy childhoods.

Did you know that ma ternal deprivation can result in delinquency in adoles cents? Caregivers must be consistent and committed to babies and infants to guarantee their best life outcome.

If you are concerned

about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail. com

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGEN CY, MINISTRY OF HU MAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

ECLAC: Population ageing less advanced in Guyana

EXPERTS from gov ernment, academia, non-governmental and civil society or ganisations met virtu ally on October 19, to discuss the findings and recommendations contained in a draft ECLAC study, entitled “The Ageing Carib bean: 20 Years of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Age ing (MIPAA).”

Convened by ECLAC Caribbean, the meeting also examined the status of implemen tation of the MIPAA in the Caribbean, 20 years after its adoption.

Population ageing is affecting all Caribbean countries and territo ries and is an important focus of attention for policymakers. It has im portant implications for pensions and social wel

fare policy, the work place, population health and the demand for care services. Moreover, de mographic ageing calls for us to re-think our assumptions about the contribution of older persons to all aspects of society.

In the Caribbean (as in Latin America), the pace of demographic change is accelerating. In 2000, for every 100

persons of working age (15-64) in the Carib bean, there were 10 per sons aged 65 and over. By 2020, that number had increased to 14. By 2030, it will have in creased to 20, and by 2045 it will be 28. Be tween 2020 and 2045, the number of persons aged 65 and over in the Caribbean will double while the size of the working age population will remain roughly un changed.

Population ageing is relatively more ad vanced in Barbados and many of ECLAC’s As sociate member coun tries, including Curaçao, Martinique and the Unit ed States Virgin Islands, while it is less advanced in Antigua and Bar buda, Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Suriname.

In this context, ECLAC’s study analy ses progress in the de velopment of policies on ageing and programmes for older persons. This includes the strengthen ing of Caribbean pen sion systems, health and long-term care services,

and policies to address issues such as isolation, loneliness and elder abuse.

In opening the EGM, ECLAC Caribbean Di rector, Diane Quarless, noted that the ageing process affects all coun tries. She described it as being more advanced in some than others, but said that all countries are seeing increases in the number of older per sons, compared with much lower growth or declines in the working age population.

“Population ageing represents an opportu nity to fully utilise the skills, creativity, knowl edge and experience of older persons. This will require changing at titudes towards older persons. It will require tackling age discrimi nation, a more flex ible approach to retire ment, more support for those with health conditions or disabili ties, and stronger pro tections against abuse and neglect,” Quarless stated.

The study makes several recommenda tions, among them, to

ensure that policies and laws for ageing and old er persons are fit for purpose and to consider the need for new, up dated or supplemen tary policies; renewal of links between govern ments and organisations of older persons and expanded opportuni ties for older persons to participate in decisionmaking; ensuring that non-contributory age pensions complement other pillars of the pen sion system and guar antee a minimum pen sion income to all older persons.

The meeting forms part of the prepara tions for the regional and global MIPAA+20 reviews. The regional review will take place at the Regional Inter governmental Confer ence on Ageing and the Rights of Older Persons in Santiago, Chile, in December 2022, with the global review taking place in 2023 within the frame work of the 61st session of the United Na tions Commission for Social Development. (ECLAC)

Guyana Cancer Foundation hosts Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

HUNDREDS of persons turned up early Sunday morning to participate in

the Guyana Cancer Foun dation’s Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. The start

ing point for the walk was the Kingston Seawall. Par ticipants then made their

way along Main Street to the Bank of Guyana, be fore heading back to the

Kingston Seawall. Some of those in attendance were Minister of Health Dr.

Frank Anthony, and Brit ish High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller.

Carl Croker photos

Guyana Cancer Foundation...

‘The world needs China’, says Xi Jinping - after securing third term as leader

By Samuel Sukhnandan in Beijing

PRESIDENT Xi Jinping said “the world needs Chi na” as he addressed the global press after securing a historic third term as leader and being reappoint ed head of the country’s Central Military Commis sion on Sunday.

“China cannot develop without the world, and the world also needs China. After more than 40 years of unflag ging efforts towards reform

and opening up, we have created two miracles—rapid economic development and long-term social stability,” he told dozens of journalists at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People.

President Xi said at pre sent, China’s economy is resilient, has sufficient poten tial, and has wide room for manoeuvring, as he asserted that the long-term good fun damentals of his country “will not change.”

“China’s door to opening up will only get bigger and bigger. We will unswervingly

deepen reform and open ing up in an all-round way, unswervingly promote highquality development, and create more opportunities for the world with our own development,” he added.

The Chinese leader also promised to work with peo ples of all countries to carry forward the common values of peace, development, eq uity, justice, democracy, and freedom for all mankind, safeguard world peace; and promote world development.

President Xi said, “On the new journey, we must

always carry forward the common values of all man kind. Today’s world faces unprecedented challenges. We have always maintained that the future and destiny of mankind should be con trolled and decided by the people of the world. As long as we walk the road together, all countries can live in har mony, cooperate for win-win results, and work together to create a better future for the world. “

Meanwhile, the Chinese President also thanked mem bers of the Communist Party

of China (CPC) for their trust, stating that they must firmly bear in mind the na ture and purpose of the party, its mission, and responsibili ties to “work diligently, and never fail to live up to the great trust placed in us by the party and the people.”

He continued, “Now we are taking confident strides on a new journey to turn China into a modern social ist country in all respects. To advance to the second centenary goal and to em brace the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts, for a Chinese path to modernisation. “

NEW LEADERSHIP

The Politburo Standing Committee of the CCP also elected President Xi as its General-Secretary for an other five-year term on Sun day. The 69-year-old leader’s third term as China’s presi dent is due to be formally announced during the gov ernment’s annual legislative sessions next year.

His instalment came af ter the week-long national congress, where over 2,000 senior party delegates en dorsed his “core position” in the leadership and approved a sweeping reshuffle that saw four new faces added to the top leadership of the country.

In addition to President Xi, the Central Committee elected Mr. Li Qiang, who now holds the second-highest ranking position in the Po litburo Standing Committee

and who is slated to become the country’s next premier.

The other members are Mr. Zhao Leji, who is in line to head the National People’s Congress, the legislature of the country, and Mr. Cai Qi, the current Beijing party chief, who will now head the General Secretariat of the party.

Meanwhile, Mr. Wang Huning, a member of the Committee since 2017, and Mr. Ding Xuexiang, who has served as head of the General Office since 2017 as well, have both been elevated within the top political circle.

On the other hand, the current party chief of the eco nomic powerhouse, Guang dong province, Li Xi, was also confirmed as head of the powerful Central Commis sion for Discipline Inspec tion, the party’s powerful anti-graft watchdog.

President Xi has been at the helm of this important policy-making body since 2012, steering China to the world’s second-largest econ omy and nearly equal mili tary prowess. He will start his third term as president in March 2023.

(Reporting courtesy of NCN Editor, Samuel Sukhnandan, who is cur rently in Beijing on a China International Press Com munication Centre (CIP CC) 2022 Fellowship at the invitation of the China Public Diplomacy Associa tion)

Chinese President Xi Jinping stands in the centre with new members of the Politburo Standing Committee beside him as they were introduced to the public for the first time (Credit: Xinhua News)

Chinese President Xi Jinping waves after his speech as the new Standing Committee members meet the media following the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on Sunday (Credit: Tingshu Wang/Reuters)

Diwali Messages…

PPP: Emulate the messages of Diwali

DIWALI is universally recognised as the festival of light; the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, and the substitution of all that is negative with that which is posi tive. As we celebrate this most auspicious occasion of the Hindu calendar, we call on all Guyanese, in particular our Hindu brothers and sisters, to reflect upon the sig nificance of this great festival, and to inculcate its mes sage into our daily lives. Occasions like Diwali continue to present the opportunity for all of our people to display to the world, as one nation, the beauty and uniqueness of our cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity and toler ance. Let us all remain open to be inspired by its per tinent messages, and to work in the best interest of our country, so that the light of prosperity will manifest itself in our lives, building stronger bonds of togetherness. The PPP wishes to extend warm Diwali greetings to every Guyanese, especially our Hindu brothers and sisters. Shubh Diwali!

THE APNU+AFC joins with all Hindus and Guyanese in celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Light. One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolises the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.

In one of the main stories in Hindu mythology, Diwali is the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi, and brother Lakshmana returned to their homeland after 14 years in exile. The villagers lit a path for Rama, who had defeated the demon king Ravana. It’s a five-day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, coloured sand, and special candles and lamps. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there’s one common theme no matter where people celebrate: The victory of good over evil.

As we light our diyas and cook our sweet-meats, which is shared among our people, let us also light the diya of love within us for all of God’s creation. The light of our country must shine touching all corners of our beautiful country.

World Food Forum:

Exploring options for future soil and plant nutrition

EFFORTS to consolidate and promote alternative fertiliser sources and to pursue new technologies for cheaper, cleaner, and more effective soil and plant nutrition were on the agenda last Thursday during an event of the World Food Forum’s Science and Innovation Forum.

The high-level ministerial session on Innovations in Soil and Plant Nutrient Manage ment at the Rome headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) addressed what to do to make sure the world’s soil will be able to feed the growing population without damaging the planet.

SOIL MATTERS

Soil is an essential ingre dient to grow food and a key building block of the agrifood system. Current and future food security depends on the ability to increase yields and food quality by improving soil fertility and plant nutrition.

Soil fertility status declines due to several factors including soil erosion, nutrient imbal ances and salinity, among other soil-degradation drivers, and unsustainable nutrient manage ment practices.

Topsoil, the most fertile layer of soil, is being lost as a result of a variety of factors, including unsustainable agri culture. An estimated 24 billion tonnes a year of fertile soil are lost through erosion.

This is happening against a background of a global popu lation that is projected to in crease to 9.7 billion by 2050, competition for land and water resources and the impact of climate change.

In addition, vulnerable countries especially in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, are grappling with fertiliser prices that have soared and where the smallholder farmers lack ac cess to inorganic and organic fertilisers.

LONG-TERM CARE

Addressing the ministe rial session, FAO’s DirectorGeneral QU Dongyu made wide-ranging comments on the importance of soil health and innovations to maintain it.

“Soil, it is not only a shortterm issue – all of us we know it is long-term. Maybe it could take our whole life, and still we could not see the real, direct results of our efforts, but we need to do it for the generations to come – that is a long-term commitment. Based on my experience, if you take care of the black soil, for instance, it will take 40 years to see a 1-cm increase of topsoil,” Qu said.

The Director-General add

ed that we need to base our efforts on science and technol ogy, like, for example, how to increase soil organic matter.

“Let’s do more in a prag matic and a systematic way, to design how to, for example, reverse soil erosion, soil de generation and soil salinity,” Qu said.

Qu also stressed the need for investment, especially longterm investment, for soil map ping, which he said reduces the need for fertiliser, for scientific taskforces to carry out monitor ing and inspections over the long term, and for harmonising agronomic practices with other measures such as tillage.

BETTER SOIL AND PLANT NUTRITION

Five ministers and former ministers made statements on the main issues relating to soils in their countries and their thoughts on efforts to maintain and improve soil health.

The participants were Oumar Ibn Daoud, Chad’s Minister of Agricultural De velopment; Omer Hussein Oba, Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture; Redouane Arrach, Morocco’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisher ies, Rural Development, Water and Forests; Anxious Jongwe Masuka, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisher ies, Water and Rural Develop ment, and William Dar, the Philippines’ Former Secretary of the Department of Agricul ture. The panel discussion was moderated by the journalist Thin Lei Win.

The topic of soil mapping came up frequently along with biofertilisers during the state ments and panel discussion. Soil data, agricultural policy, soil analysis, water-resource conservation, soil-health pro grammes, modernising soilmanagement systems, invest ment, and preparing for climate change were all mentioned.

FAO Chief Scientist Isma hane Elouafi contributed to the session with a summary of the discussion’s main points highlighting that information is the foundation of sustainable nutrient management. She also pointed to the consensus that sustainable soil management is one of the most cost-effective solutions to increase macroand micronutrient content in soil.

FAO is involved in nu merous initiatives concern ing soils, among them the Global Soil Partnership, the Global Soil Doctors Pro gramme and the publica tion of reports including the Global assessment of soil pollution. (FAO)

Left to right: Thin Lei Win, William Dar; Anxious Jongwe Masuka; Oumar Ibn Daoud and Omer Hussein Oba at the WFF Science and Innovation Forum - Ministerial session on Innovations in Soil and Plant Nutrient Management

Diwali Messages…

Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha President, Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud

THE sacred festival of Deepavali revolves around the con cept of light. Maha Lakshmi, who is worshipped through out the five-day period, epitomises this inner divine light that devotees seek to kindle. The symbolic but important lighting of diyas represents the battle against negativity, and, as each one is lit, prayers are recited to Maha Lak shmi for her blessings, so that every iota of darkness could be dispelled internally and externally.

This Diwali, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha encour ages all to divest themselves of negative thoughts and energy, and emerge renewed and invigorated to contribute in all spheres of their life positively while maintaining a state of happiness, hope and resilience.

President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vin dhya Vasini Persaud encourages all Guyanese to continue to participate in this unifying festival that has been a part of the national Guyanese calendar for decades. She feels we can all benefit from the internal transformation that this festival espouses, which urges the dispelling of negative energies, tendencies and qualities from within.

By lighting the diyas, we are kindling our divine light which we can share with all whom we come into contact, and also eradicate every trace of darkness from every nook and cranny of our country.

Dr. Persaud says she loves the sacred festival for its deep spiritual meaning which encourages faith and devotion in God, and emphasises that as a people we must reject anything that spews discord, disharmony, animosity and chaos, and also that Guyana is unique in the sense that people from all walks of life embrace the beautiful and majestic motorcade, making it synonymous with Diwali celebrations in Guyana.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha extends Deepavali greetings to all Guyanese, and prays that the infinite blessings of Maha Lakshmi be showered on all families and the entire country, so that we all may live in peace, unity, harmony and love all our lives, and that the country may enjoy continuous prosperity and success.

The Festival of Lights, Deepavali is an opportune time for reflection and self-assessment, and for families to be closer knitted and adhere to good values and principles that will flow into the wider communities, auguring well for our future.

Diwali is observed on the darkest night, or amawasya of the Hindu Month of Kartik, and we encourage all to light thousands of diyas to challenge and remove dark ness where it exists, ushering Lakshmi Ma and the light she represents.

GHDS: Deepavali is unifying in its message of triumph of righteousness over unrighteousness

Diwali Messages…

GAWU: Diwali helps bring our people closer together

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is delighted to extent best wishes and greetings to all Guyanese, and particularly the Hindu community, on the occasion of the Festival of Lights – Diwali. The GAWU recognises that the observances of Diwali have now grown into a national observance as all our peoples, in one way or another, take part in the observances. Our union is heartened by such developments as festivals like Diwali undoubtedly help to bring our people closer together in the spirit of attaining One Guyana.

The enduring message of Diwali speaks to the illumination of light in darkness. The story underscores the very often tested defeat of evil by the forces of good. We believe the lessons of Diwali remain very much relevant in our times. Today, we cannot fail to ignore those who seek to perpetuate divisiveness amongst our peoples. It is, for the GAWU, a disturbing and worrying feature of our times. Advocates of such messages should be rounded rejected and condemned. We are, however, convinced that like the intrigues that punctuate the story of Diwali, those who seek to divide us will not succeed and the forces of good will once again triumph.

As Guyanese prepare to observe Diwali in their own way, we urge that they do so in a respectful and peaceful manner. We are encouraged by the observances thus far and we are certain that the lights of the diyas will only serve not to illuminate our physical surroundings but our minds as well.

Happy Diwali 2022 from GAWU!

ERC: Let’s embrace the positives portrayed by the Festival of Lights

THE Ethnic Relations Com mission (ERC) extends warmest greetings to the Hindu community and all Guyanese in observing Di wali 2022, signifying the triumph of good over evil.

The recurring story of the annual festival provides inspi ration and guidance to citizens from all ethnic groups; light will replace darkness, positives will bloom over negatives and good will ultimately overcome evil.

The Commission is tasked with the multi-faceted objec tive of promoting harmony and good relations through positive measures; actions to promote tolerance, understand ing, education and acceptance to achieve national harmony, eventually removing the de structive undercurrents of divi sion and disharmony.

The resurgence this year of the traditional well-lit Di wali motorcades traversing the roadways, along with the walkabout by citizens to view the flickering Diyas country wide epitomises the illuminat ing message of Diwali. For Hindus, Diwali symbolises the lighted path prepared to herald the homecoming of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile, and de feating King Ravana’s tyranny thousands of years ago.

The significance of this national observance is replete with messages of victory and emergence from darkness and despair. The Commission, therefore, urges Guyanese to endeavour and commit to building upon the enduring festival of lights to sustain peace and brotherhood.

Let’s embrace the posi tives portrayed by Diwali for the advancement of the multi-ethnic Guyanese na tion celebrating many cul tures in one country. Shubh Diwali to all from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

A legacy of hard work

83-year-old ‘Uncle Bobby’ still toils in the rice field

By Naomi Parris

DESPITE his age and grow ing pains, 83-year-old Ganga Persaud, popularly known as ‘Uncle Bobby’, remains a vibrant agriculturist with a household name in the small farming community of Hague, on the West Coast of Demerara.

A rice farmer for almost all of his adult life, he refuses to entertain thoughts of retirement.

“I’ve been planting rice for over 60 years, and I’ve been a very successful and productive rice farmer,” he told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, as he re flected on his life.

He recalled that at the age of 23, he was introduced to rice production by his late mother who was also a farmer.

“I was 23, and my mom gave me two-and-a- half acres to plant for myself, and I did that

search to do experimental crops,” he added.

NOT LIKE LONG AGO

These days, he said, there is a more laid-back approach to rice production.

Persaud told this publication that it’s not like long ago, when rice production was all about re search and widespread field work.

“Research, you can’t go wrong, but in recent times, the rice research people have become cash-strapped, and they are not doing what they were doing before, because extension offic ers used to visit your home and speak to you, and discuss your crop. And that used to give me the sense of being a good farmer. My crops are always blooming; always looking good. It’s always at a level where you can’t go wrong, if this is a good crop,” he said.

Uncle Bobby believes that,

are faced with many challenges, ranging from climate change to exploitation. This, Uncle Bobby said, makes him worry about the industry, and where it is heading.

MINE TODAY, YOURS TOMORROW

Despite the challenges in the industry, as a father of four, grandfather of six, and greatgrandfather of five, he said he is content with the legacy he will be leaving behind.

Further, he said that he would always encourage his sons to work hard.

Unfortunately, his eldest son passed away before he was able to share more of his knowledge with him. His other son, Ray, oversees the production, while he remains by his side, providing valuable guidance.

“My son, he wanted to go to the United States a couple years back. I sat him down and I said,

with great zeal, and I was able to produce as much as I possibly could,” Persaud said.

After reaping the fruits of his labour, he quickly came to the re alisation that being a rice farmer was not only a lucrative business, but one that was rewarding to him in so many other ways.

He took to the scientific aspect of rice production, which earned him lots of praise, and the title of an expert in the field.

“In 1996, myself and five other farmers were sent to In dia and the Philippines to look at what they are doing there, especially the Water Users As sociation. We spent seven days in India and seven days in the Philippines, and we were able to gather so much information. And when we came back, we had to write reports on what transpired, and how things went,” he recalled.

With the extensive knowledge gained during his research visits to the two countries, he was one of the farmers selected to plant exper imental varieties of rice in Guyana. Many successful outcomes were subsequently recorded.

“I never gave up rice produc tion for nothing else, because I loved producing paddy. And for that reason, I was chosen for re

collectively, the lack of ground work, the effects of climate change, and the lack of principles have resulted in the decline of rice production in Guyana.

“We are at a point where farmers may not be able to con tinue under these conditions. It’s been three consecutive crops, where we have put in a crop in wet conditions,” he said, while referencing the devasting floods of 2021 and 2022.

“Under this condition, farm ers are going to suffer fatigue, mentally and financially. Govern ment will have to come in and help us, because, if they don’t, we will collapse,” he told this publication.

He noted that while many may think that rice production is only about planting a seed, it also requires a lot of research, field work, and good governance.

“Extension services have been very invaluable, because it used to keep us in line with the principles that govern rice production. I am of the under standing that if we do not main tain these very systems, the rice industry is going to fall apart,” Persaud said.

It is for this reason he has not yet retired.

He said that rice farmers

‘Look, you going there to look work, but how fast you could get money?’” he said adding that he told his son that he had it (money) “right there”, and that he became a farmer and earned his own money.

He said he emphasised to him, “What’s mine today, is yours tomorrow.”

Uncle Bobby has always shared the advice he would have gotten from his parents with his children. This, he believes, has led to his family’s continued success.

“My mom left with me a legacy of hard work, and because of hard work, you get what you want. And she taught me one thing; not to lie, and when you get anything by honest means, it stays with you,” he said.

Outside of his family life and that of a rice farmer, he has held several positions: A com munity leader, a friend and a confidant to many.

“In life, I created an impact in different areas, and I’m al ways happy. Whatever was the outcome of my participation and the reaction, it gives you the satisfaction that you have been serving your God, and you have been serving man,” Uncle Bobby told this publication.

‘Uncle Bobby’ during a recent birthday celebration

Uncle Bobby with one of his six grandchildren

Kohli helps India past Pakistan in last over thriller

NOT for the first time, and unlikely to be the last, former skipper Vi rat Kohli turned back the clock with a brilliant individual knock of 82 from just 53 deliveries that saved the day for India.

Kohli came to the crease in the second over when KL Rahul (4) was undone by Naseem Shah (1/23), and things looked forlorn for India, when a fired-up Haris Rauf (2/36) reduced them to 31/3 after the batting Powerplay.

But Kohli kept his nerve and, just like he has done so many times previously, expertly guided India home in front of a crowd of in ex cess of 90,000 at the MCG in Melbourne.

India never looked like winning it, but with Kohli

and Hardik Pandya at the crease, there was always an outside chance they could pull a rabbit out of the hat.

There was 31 needed from the last two overs, and Kohli hit Rauf for two mas sive sixes on the final two deliveries of the penultimate over to make the equation 16 from the final six balls.

Still, there was more drama.

Pandya fell on the first delivery of the final over, before Kohli put Moham mad Nawaz into the stands off a waist-high full-toss to make it six runs required from the final three deliv eries to pull off the unlikely win.

Kohli was bowled on the ensuing delivery, but, given it was a free hit, India scrambled three byes to leave them in the box seat

with just two needed from the final two balls.

Karthik was stumped on the second last delivery to give Pakistan hope, but Ravi Ashwin came to the crease to hit the winning run from the final ball of the match to clinch a thriller for India.

The lack of a decent fourth seamer proved cost ly for Pakistan, with India targeting Nawaz during his spell while keeping their pacers at bay.

It was Shaheen Afridi that did the damage with the ball in Dubai last year, but this time around, it was his fellow quicks as Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah broke through India's top-order.

Pakistan's pace trio bowled with sheer pace to reduce India to just 31/3 from their batting Power play, and there was more

carnage on the first ball of the seventh over, when Axar Patel, promoted to No.5 in the batting line-up, was run

out while attempting a run that wasn't there.

But Kohli and Pandya timed their run perfectly

to guide Rohit Sharma's side home in a thrilling encounter in Melbourne. (ICC)

Sri Lanka thump Ireland by nine wickets

SRI Lanka commenced their Super 12 cam

paign with an impressive nine-wicket triumph over a disappointing Ireland in Hobart on Sunday.

There were many fears for Sri Lanka when they were thrashed by Namibia in the opening match of the First Round, but the reign ing Asia Cup champions are slowly gathering some momentum.

Star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga (2/25) took his eighth and ninth scalps of the tournament thus far, and he was well supported by fellow spinner Maheesh Theekshana (2/19), who was thrust into the bowling crease during Ireland's bat ting Powerplay.

Sri Lanka's run chase was a mere formality, with in-form opener Kusal Men dis (68 from 43 balls) con tinuing his excellent tourna ment thus far, with another half-century.

early, but young-gun Harry Tector (45 off 42) was the only other player to look assured at the crease.

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While the nine-wicket victory over Ireland was expected by most, the way the island nation went about it was ultra-impressive, as they clinically dispatched of their opponents with plenty of improvement to come.

Not only did Sri Lanka take wickets at regular inter vals, but they also kept the run rate down, as Ireland's batters were unable to gather much momentum, and were restricted to 128/8 from their 20 overs.

QUIZ

Much of the good Ireland managed from eye-catching victories over Scotland and the West Indies was undone against Sri Lanka, with the European side unable to back-up their strong show ings from the First Round.

Veteran opener Paul Stir ling (34 from 25 balls) got a handful of big shots away

Their bowling didn't fare much better, with spinner Gareth Delany (1/28) the only wicket-taker as Ireland started their Super 12 cam paign in disappointing style.

While Sri Lanka will be buoyed by their easy victory, the good news for them is they still have plenty of im provement left in them, and can play much better.

First-choice opener Pathum Nissanka missed the clash against Ireland due to a groin injury, while the rest of their batting line-up, outside of Mendis, are yet to really hit their straps.

There is still four more matches Sri Lanka must ne gotiate during the Super 12, if they are to reach the semis, with their next test coming in Perth on Tuesday against tournament hosts, Australia.

Ireland has two full days to lick their wounds and recover, with a difficult match-up against England their next assignment at the MCG on Wednesday.

Rohit Sharma carries Virat Kohli on his shoulders after the epic win•Oct 22, 2022•AFP/Getty Images

Future Stars signal intent to take title

THE Future Stars team has shown their intent to be a force in the 2022 edition of the MVP Sports Futsal tournament with a 10goal drubbing of Crane when the tournament continued on Saturday evening.

Their 10-3 scoreline at the end of Game Two showed they were in no playful mood, with Ron

aldo Dover (6th,7th and 20th) and Tyrese Dennis (2nd, 8th and 16th) both scoring hat tricks, along with a brace from Ja mal Cozier (8th and 9th), and single strikes from Keron Solomon (18th) and Raushan Ritch (12th).

Crane did score some consolidation goals through Andres Marcano (2nd and 20th) and Dexter Marshall (4th).

The night opened with Stabroek Ballers beat ing Melanie 7-2. Dacos ta Aboagye (6th, 16th and 18th), Shemar Welch (10th and 17th), along with Henery Sampson (10th) and Dorwin George (2nd) were the chief rea sons for that score line, while Melanie’s two goals came from Marlon Forrester (12th) and Mala caih Grannum (11th).

Vengy also beat Swag 6-4 in a game that went to overtime, thanks to goals from Edgardo Her riea (21st, 23rd and 25th) and Dexaniel Gomez (14th and 26th), while Swag’s goals came from Omar Beweley (13th), Kosi Gentle (27th), Andre Meyers (22th), and an own Goal.

Campbellville edged Albouystown 5-4, with

Martin Bethel single handedly leading the way, finding the back of the net in the 4th, 5th, 11th, 15th and 19th. Albouystown had Andrew Murray Jr. (7th and 13th), Sheldon Forde (2nd), and Marlon Nedd (10th).

Back Circle were also winners that night, with Jamaine Beckles (13th), Stephan Reynolds (6th), and David George (8th)

being responsible for the 3-0 score line against Vry heid’s Lust, with Sparta winning against Channel 9 via a walk-over.

Roy Cossou won a 10,000 MVP Sport Gift Card, following a ticket raffle during the night.

The tournament is organised by the Pe tra Organisation, with support from Magnum Tonic Wine.

Returning West Indian players to join up with super 50 squads

THE West Indies Men’s T20 team have departed Australia to head back to the region, following the team’s exit from the ICC

Men’s T20 World Cup 2022. The return of the international players will coincide with the start of the CG United Super50

Cup, the annual regional List A tournament, with their inclusions to be con firmed this week in their respective regional squads

for the upcoming event.

The players will now be available for the tour nament upon their return to the Caribbean on 25

October, whilst some of the Test Players will remain in Melbourne to prepare for the upcoming Test Se ries against Australia. This year’s CG United Super 50 Cup will feature eight teams, the traditional six franchises who will be joined by the West Indies Academy and Combined Campuses & Colleges (CCC) teams.

The event will bowl off in Antigua on Saturday 29 October, with a match between the Leeward Is lands and the West Indies Academy at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (SVRS).

Defending champions Trin idad & Tobago Red Force open their campaign on 31 October against CCC at the Brian Lara Cricket Acade my (BLCA). The final will be played on Saturday 19 November at the SVRS. The other two venues for the tournament are the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua; along with the Queen’s Park Oval (QPO) in Trinidad.

The CG United Super50 tournament will showcase the traditional rivalries, with players throughout the region eager to prove them selves in the List A format, with spots in the West In dies ODI set-up for next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup up for grabs.

Overseas broadcast partners for the CG United Super50 Cup are ESPN+ (USA), BT Sport (UK & Ireland), FanCode (India), SuperSport (Sub-Saharan

Africa) and Sky NZ (New Zealand). Additionally, LIVE ball-by-ball scoring for all twenty-seven (27) CG United Super50 Cup matches will be available on the www.windiescricket. com Match Centre.

Due to the returning T20 World Cup contin gent, CWI will allow larger squads from the original ly stipulated 14 players. However, this will only be applicable for the period prior to the departure of the West Indies Test team on 8 November, when the franchises must revert to 14 players only.

The West Indies next international assignment is a two-match Test Series in Australia, with the squad set to be announced this week. The first Test will be at the Perth Stadium (30 November to 4 December), and the second, a pinkball day-night contest at the Adelaide Oval (8-12 December), for the Frank Worrell Trophy.

This series will form part of the ICC World Test Championship, with important points up for grabs. The West Indies are sixth in the current standings, while Austra lia top the table. West Indies have won both their Test series so far this year, a 1-0 series win against England at home in March to capture the Richards-Botham trophy, followed by a 2-0 series sweep against Bangladesh on home soil in June.

Beharry storms to four titles at National Junior Badminton Tournament

TALENTED 14-year-old Mishka Beharry dominat ed the Guyana Badminton Association’s National Ju nior Badminton Tournament, which concluded on Saturday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The teen controlled the female division with wins in the Girls U15 Singles, the Girls U17 Singles, the Girls U19 Singles and the Girls U19 Doubles.

In the U15 Singles, she won ahead of Malia Haley, with Naveah Eastman and Gabriel Felix finishing a joint third.

The Girls U15 Doubles was won by Naveah East man and Malia Haley, with G. Bookram and H. Kumar in second, and T. Netram and M. Hinckson in third.

In the U17 Singles, she defeated Alyssa Dick in the championship clash, while

in the U19 battle, she got the better of Alima Eastman, with Naveah Eastman and Haley finishing a joint third.

In the U19 Doubles, Mish ka teamed up with Dick, and the duo got the better of Ali ma Eastman and Genevieve Bookram, with Naveah and Haley finishing third.

Young player Gianna Ram narine also claimed wins, hav ing won the Girls Under-11 Singles ahead of R. Alexander, and the Girls U13 ahead of Himanshi Kumar, with Tanuja Netram and Maleah Hinckson finishing a joint third.

The U13 Girls Doubles was won by Kumar and Gabri elle Felix, with Hinckson and Netram finishing third.

MALE BATTLE

None of the boys domi nated like Mishka, but three finished with two titles each.

Pre-teen Ruel Rambiriche finished with victories in the

Boys U13 Singles and the Boys U13 Doubles.

In the singles, he defeated John Thomas in the final, with Vivaan Shivnauth and Sergio Alexander finishing a joint third.

In the doubles, he and Thomas got past the pair of Shivnauth and Alexander. Thomas had won the U11 Sin gles ahead of Francis Thomas, with Manvir Sharma and Joel Rambiriche finishing a joint third.

Viraj Singh also won two events, but in the oldest age group. He teamed up with Xavio Alexander to win the U19 Doubles ahead of Jona than Debidin and Manay Shar ma; Jedidiah Uwagboe and Juan Ferreira, along with Raah Russell and Frank Waddell finished third.

In the U19 singles, Singh defeated Debidin with Jonathan Robinson and Raah Russell in

joint third place.

Xavio Alexander won the U15 Singles, with Aiden Bhag wandin finishing second, and Nathan Morrison and Avinash Ramnarine joint third.

In the U15 Doubles, it was the team of Gabriel Felix and Nikolas Pollard which finished ahead of Avinash Ramnarine and Rambiriche, with Jaquan Nedd and Nathan Jarvis finish ing joint third.

In the U17 battle, Debidin, who also had a dominant tour nament, surged to victory in the singles, with Xavio Alexander in second and Matthew Spoon er and Uwagboe in joint third.

Spooner had taken the U17 Boys Doubles title with Haresh Persaud ahead of Debidin and Aiden Bhagwandin.

Pollard/Felix and Uwag boe/Juan Ferreira finished joint third.

According to information from the GBA, the National

Golf Invitational…

Paton George edges Miguel Oviedo

2nd: Miguel Oviedo (21hc) – gross 91, net 70

3rd: Ayube Subhan (13hc) – gross 84, net 71

LOW GROSS, CLOS EST TO THE FLAG and LONGEST DRIVE were all won by current Guyana Open Champion, Avinda Kishore with a gross score of 75.

name, Trinidad, Barbados, Canada, England, Columbia, and the United States among other nations will join the local golfers for a contest that is increasingly becoming a Markie event.

Mishka Beharry won four titles at the event

Sports Commission-sponsored tournament will be used to select the squad for the up coming Inter-Guiana Games, which is scheduled for late next month.

The young players and other members of the badmin ton fraternity also met with the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson, and Director of Sport Steve

Ninvalle, and were informed that the government plans to build a home for badminton at the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue.

“The GBA is extremely and beyond grateful for this very timely and long-awaited initiative, thanks the Govern ment of Guyana. This facil ity will be shared with table tennis,” the Association said.

Sixteen teams confirmed for 2022 Guinness greatest-ofthe-street East Coast edition

THE 16 teams that will compete in the 2022 edition of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ East Coast Demerara Championship, have officially been confirmed, follow ing the conclusion of the registration and qualification process.

GOLFERS teed off on Sat urday in the penultimate contest, C&V Caribbean Shipping LTD Golf Invita tional, ahead of this week end’s GTT Guyana Open Championship, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday October 29 and 30.

Scoring conditions were difficult, as the Lusignan Golf Club LGC ground staff prepared the track for this weekend’s major. On this challenging layout, golfers needed to keep their tee shots in the nicely-mowed low-cut fairway grass.

As the majors approach, the grass off the fairway has

grown higher, which makes missing the fairway very punitive, causing second shots to be very challenging as players have to hit from thicker grass.

Saturday’s conditions meant scoring low was going to be challenging. Only one golfer, Paton George, was able to produce a below par net score of 69.

He was followed one shot back by one of the hot test and most improved golf ers of 2022, Miguel Oviedo, with a net par score of 70.

Full Winners:

1st: Paton George (15hc) – gross 84, net 69

Avinda is the heavy fa vourite to repeat as the Guy ana Open men’s Champion, but you could never count out his brother, Avinash Per saud, who is the winningest Guyana Open, and, arguably, the best golfer in the history of Guyana.

At the close of play, C&V Caribbean Shipping Ltd Company Rep Nata sha Gomes extended greet ings from the company, and thanked all participants and attendees. She reminded that this was the second year of the company hosting the penultimate contest before the major, and promised to continue this tradition.

Attention and focus now turns to this weekend’s GTT Guyana Open Champion ship. Players from several countries, including Suri

On the women’s side, Shanella London, with a win, would be putting her name in the hat for being one of the best-ever female golfers from Guyana. She will be defending her 2021 title, but will have to get past her main rival and former multi-win ner of the Guyana Open, Christine Sookram.

The course is being set up for back-to-back ma jor events the next two weekends, as GTT hosts the biggest tournament of the year, followed the first weekend in November by the McCorp Golf Classic. Both of the next two events are must-play events for most golfers. GTT Guyana Open crowns the champion golfers, male and female, of the year. McCorp then hosts the following week end’s McCorp Classic, in which some of the most attractive prizes would be up for grabs.

According to an official release from the tournament coordinator, “The teams have been confirmed following the end of the registration period, and all systems and structures are currently being finalised for the grand commencement of the competition, following a two-year hiatus.”

The competing teams are: Defending champion, and two-time winner, Melanie-B; Liliendaal Hustlers, Belfield Warriors, Paradise-A, BV-A, Victoria Church Yard, Buxton Diamond, Uprising, Victoria Eagles, Portmore, Old School, Non-Pariel, Team Cruel, Vryheid’s Lust, Bareroot, and Has lington.

The release further said, “The confirmed list of partici pants embodies a diverse and wide cross-section of represen tation throughout the East Coast Demerara corridor. We have teams that are traditional heavyweights in the tournament amongst the mix, alongside emerging threats and newcom ers. We expect a wonderful and exciting tournament. Further details of the event will be disclosed shortly. This will include the official fixtures for the entirety of the tournament.”

The main section tournament, which will be staged at the Haslington Tarmac, is billed to kick-off on October 28, with the round of 16 stage.

The competition, which will utilise an elimination format, will last three days. The other dates are October 29, and No vember 5. The second night will consist of the quarterfinal round, while the final night will feature the semi-final stage, third-place playoff, and championship encounter, respec tively.

Similarly, the losing round of 16 teams will compete in the Plate Championship. Presently, the Linden and Berbi ce legs have been hosted. Defending champion, Swag En tertainment successfully retained the Linden title, while Showtime captured their maiden Berbice championship.

Winners

Medal winners and officials at the tournament