Guyana Times -- Saturday, January 29, 2022

US Embassy donates vehicles to MoH P

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Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4904

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

Govt hands over Core Homes to 6 lowincome families See story on page 9

PRICE

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Education P16 Minister presents Pro Chancellor’s Award to Best UG Law student

PNC leaders meet AFC leaders on appointment of new Opposition Leader – discussions to continueP9 on Tuesday

Cop dies after crashing into parked truck P5 Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal handing over the keys and documents to one of the recipients of the core homes on Friday in the presence of CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Sherwyn Greaves and regional representative

GOGEC calls for more Private Sector participation – lauds Govt’s efforts to reduce disparity in energy shift between local, foreign companies See story on page 7

4 more die from 20 hinterland communities to get COVID, death toll now 1160 land titles this year – authorities monitoring over

Cocaine, P5 suspected stolen items seized during Police raid

See story on page 3

– millions budgeted for Amerindian development 5000 active cases

4 mothers arraigned for dousing woman with acid

Page 2

Page 11

OPM to establish Guyana Media Communications Academy P15 Police to P15 clamp down on untidy, reckless minibus drivers, conductors

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12 displaced after Cross Street fire

T

welve persons are now homeless after a fire destroyed an apartment building at Cross Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, on Monday evening.

Based on information received, the fire started at about 20:55h. As a result, the Guyana Fire Service responded with water tenders from the Central Fire Station, West Ruimveldt and Alberttown Fire Stations.

The structure involved was a two-storey wooden apartment building owned by 74-year-old Jone Bowman who, along with three others, occupied the top floor.

The bottom floor, which consisted of two apartments, was occupied by eight persons.

The fire was purportedly caused by a lit candle that was left unattended which fell and ignited nearby combustible materials.

As a result of the fire, the entire building and its contents were destroyed, leav-

The fire that destroyed the building at Cross Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown

ing twelve persons homeless.

When Guyana Times visited the scene on Friday, a woman who was nearby when the fire ignited, said that she was inside her shop when she saw a bright light coming from the area.

As persons rushed to the scene to render assistance, she discovered that a 6-yearold girl was left sleeping in one of the apartments. After some time, persons managed to get the child out.

She said the apartments were rented by Brazilians or Venezuelan nationals. No injuries were reported.

This is the second fire in less than two weeks that occurred in Georgetown. The first fire ripped through a bond at the Laparkan Shipping Complex in Georgetown, causing millions of dollars’ worth of items to go up in flames.

After an investigation into the fire was wrapped up it was concluded that the inferno was an act of arson.

4 mothers arraigned for dousing woman with acid

Remanded: Jennifer Validen

Remanded: Alana Holder

Remanded: Gailann Marks

Remanded: Latifah DaCosta

our mothers were on Friday remanded to prison for allegedly dousing another woman with an acidic substance which has severely burnt

her.

Jointly charged with attempted murder, the four have been arraigned before Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at

the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Charged are Jennifer Validen, 28, a mother of three and of Albouystown, Georgetown; Alana Holder, 28, a mother of three and of North East La Penitence, Georgetown; Gailann Marks, 21, a mother of two and of West Ruimveldt, Georgetown; and Latifah DaCosta, 26, a mother of one and of Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

They were not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleges that on January 21, 2022, at Princes Street, Georgetown, they caused grievous bodily harm to 24-year-old Renesha Maxwell of West Ruimveldt, with intent to commit murder.

The four accused will make another court appearance on February 25.

The women were all represented by lawyers who asked the court to grant them reasonable bail. In their bail applications, the lawyers told the Magistrate that their clients do not pose a risk of flight, while noting that they all turned themselves in after learning that they were wanted in connection with the incident.

However, the Police prosecutor has opposed their being released on bail. In so doing, he said Maxwell is hospitalised in a serious

condition. The prosecutor also highlighted the serious nature of the offence and the gravity of the charge. These objections were upheld, and bail was denied them by the Magistrate.

It has been reported that Maxwell had taken a taxi from Leopold Street, Georgetown, and as she was travelling in that vehicle, she observed another vehicle following the one she was in. With this realisation, she reportedly told the driver to stop, and as soon as the car stopped, four females exited the trailing car and approached her.

One of the females, reportedly Validen, then threw a liquid substance on her, after which she immediately felt a burning sensation about her body and began to scream. She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she was treated and later admitted with burns to her back and left hand.

The Police prosecutor informed the court that at one point the accused persons and Maxwell were all friends, and that “something went wrong among them”.

Following the incident, the Police had issued a wanted bulletin for the four mothers, who, accompanied by their lawyers, surrendered at the Ruimveldt Police Station.

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NEWS

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Jan 29 – 01:00h – 02:30h and Sunday, Jan 30 – 01:30h – 03:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Jan 29 – 14:05h – 15:35h and Sunday, Jan 30 – 15:00h – 16:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Westerly to North NorthEasterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 14:19h reaching a maximum height of 2.49 metres.

Low Tide: 07:49h and 20:30h reaching minimum heights of 0.91 metre and 0.67 metre.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS O

04 08 09

15 21 26

FREE TICKET

12 Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

03 10 14 18 26 LUCKY 3

0

7

4

4

Afternoon Draw

0

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03 04 05 07 10 11 19 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022

03 06 12 16 17 13

03 04 10 16 21

2

9 Afternoon Draw

2X Afternoon Draw

6

8 Evening Draw

2X Evening Draw

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$90.03/barrel

+0.77

Rough Rice

$268.70/ton

-0.21

London Sugar

$499.70/ton

-0.02

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1791.60

$1792.60

Low/High Change

$1780.30 0.00

$1800.60 0.00%

20 hinterland communities to get land titles this year – millions budgeted for Amerindian development

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n keeping with its election manifesto promise, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has allotted millions of dollars towards the development of the country’s Indigenous people, including the distribution of land titles to hinterland communities.

This is according to Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh during his presentation of the massive $552.9 billion Budget 2022 on Wednesday.

According to the Finance Minister, Government is committed to ensuring that Amerindians and hinterland villages are economically empowered, especially through the land titling programme, which he reminded had languished during the five years under the APNU/AFC regime.

“In 2022, our Government will continue to support the rights of our Indigenous peoples by accelerating the Land Titling programme at a cost of $561.6 million allocated in this budget to achieve a target of 20 Certificates of Title,” Dr Singh stated.

The issuance of these titles to hinterland communities allows Amerindians to secure their lands and natural resources in order to achieve sustainable, social, and economic development.

The PPP/C had promised in its manifesto to resuscitate the Amerindian Land Titling (ALT) Unit that was disbanded by the coalition Administration and did so last year. A sum of $630 million was allocated to the project in the 2021 budget and saw a total of five demarcations completed.

According to the Minister, the Certificates of Title for these demarcations are currently being issued, with the Indigenous citizens residing within Capoey village being the first of the five villages to receive their Certificate of Title.

He noted that this is in keeping with his Administration’s commitment to ensure that all Guyanese participate fully in the economic transformation that is currently unfolding in the country. He added that Government is mindful of the unique challenges faced

by Amerindian people, particularly those residing in remote communities.

To this end, the Finance Minister posited that the PPP/C Government will further ensure the economic em-

powerment of the Indigenous people through the development of their village economy.

“We are also committed to ensuring that all of the country’s best educational and training opportunities are available to our hinterland brothers and sisters as they are to those on the coast.

And, we are committed to ensuring that the quality of social services delivered to all villages is improved markedly,” the Minister stated.

Dr Singh went on to highlight that in its support of sustainable livelihoods of hinterland communities, Government last year expended $673 million for tractors, implements and economic projects all aimed at enhancing the development of agriculture, tourism, women and youth.

This saw 112 tractors and trailers along with implements distributed to Amerindian communities to help promote village agriculture as well as for use in transport.

In 2022, according to the Finance Minister, “a further sum of $411.2 million will result in 71 additional communities benefitting. Similarly bringing the total number of communities to 183 since this Government took office.”

Meanwhile, Government has also set aside a sum of $3.4 billion this year for the hinterland roads programme in order to improve connectivity.

With regards to the 2000 Community Support Officers (CSOs) who were reinstated by the PPP/C Administration after being fired by the coalition regime, Minister Singh disclosed some $666.5 million was expended on stipends for the CSOs under the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme last year.

He added that a further sum of $115.6 million was also injected into the training of 420 CSOs in areas such

as ICT, tractor driving, licensing and maintenance; and solar panel installation and maintenance. “[We are] equipping them with skills that are relevant and that would be of value to both their own personal upliftment but also to the village economy,” the Minister noted.

This year, he added, the number of CSOs is slated to increase to 2500, thus creating an additional 500 jobs for young persons in Amerindian villages, and an additional sum of $60 million will be spent on training 650 CSOs to serve in 220 communities within all 10 administrative regions in areas such as tourism and hospitality; development of business plans; food safety pre-requisites; good manufacturing practices; ATV and outboard engine repairs and licensing; as well as garment construction.

Dr Singh pointed out that through these interventions, Government will continue to drive employment and opportunities for our Amerindian youth.

On this note, he disclosed that some 31,295 hinterland students are expected to benefit this year from the PPP/C Administration’s “Because We Care” cash grants to school children, which was increased to $25,000 per child from $15,000.

Additionally, to improve access to education and skills, Minister Singh also announced the allocation of $93.3 million towards the hinterland scholarship programme, which will see some 805 students benefiting.

In total, the Finance Minister said a whopping $3.1 billion is allocated for core Amerindian development programmes. This, he added, along with key investments across every sector will set the stage for a rapid improvement in wellbeing in the country’s Amerindian and hinterland villages.

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Helping senior citizens A

perusal of the Budget shows that there are several provisions aimed at bringing relief to families and giving a boost to businesses that have been squeezed by the global impact of COVID-19.

In this year’s budget, the old-age pension will be increased to $28,000 per month. This is in addition to the last budgetary provisions for pensioners receiving free water with the overall removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity and water.

In its Baseline Report for the Decade of Healthy Ageing, the World Health Organization (WHO) included useful insights into the status of the world’s older populations, and what health authorities and policymakers and international development partners could do in order to ensure this group of people are not left behind.

According to the report, at least 14 per cent of all people aged 60 years and over – more than 142 million people – are currently unable to meet all their basic daily needs. The report brings together data available for measuring healthy ageing, defined by WHO as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age”.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus notes that humans now live longer than at any time in history.

“But adding more years to life can be a mixed blessing if it is not accompanied by adding more life to years,” he said.

He said the Baseline Report for the Decade of Healthy Ageing has the potential to transform the way policy-makers and multiple service-providers engage with older adults. The report also discusses what is needed to promote collaboration and better measure progress towards healthy ageing.

WHO says that optimising “functional ability” is the goal of the Decade of Healthy Ageing, which began in 2021 and addresses five interrelated abilities that all older people should enjoy: the ability to meet basic needs; to continue to learn and make decisions; to be mobile; to build and maintain relationships; and to contribute to society.

The Baseline Report presents the experience of countries which have been successful in starting healthy ageing initiatives in each of these areas, such as Ireland, Mexico and Vietnam. It also stresses that older adults must be engaged throughout.

According to the report, only one-quarter of countries around the world are compiling comparable data which can be used to monitor global progress towards healthy ageing. Some countries that are collecting and using data to improve policies and programmes for and with older persons are presented in the report. These countries are Chile, China, Finland, Ghana, India, Qatar, Singapore, and Thailand.

A number of indicators to be reported on by countries as a demonstration of commitment towards healthy ageing were agreed on by WHO Member States as part of the Global Strategy on Ageing and Health 2016-2020, and were endorsed in 2020 within the context of the Decade for Healthy Ageing 2021-2030. Examples are the establishment of a national committee or forum on ageing; comprehensive assessments of the health and social care needs of older people; and a policy on strengthening long-term care.

It should be stated that the Caribbean has been recognised as having one of the fastest-growing older populations in the developing world. This certainly poses its own challenges, and Governments and other actors would be required to take the necessary measures to ensure that this segment of the population leads healthier and more productive lives.

There is no doubt that among the more pressing issues affecting older persons are health concerns and the quality of care being provided to them on a daily basis. It is therefore crucial for Governments to put in place systems which would allow for older persons to obtain the health services they need.

WHO’s new Guidelines on Integrated Care for Older People recommend ways community-based services can help prevent, slow, or reverse declines in physical and mental capacities among older people. The guidelines also require health and social care providers to coordinate their services around the needs of older people through approaches such as comprehensive assessment and care plans.

Director of the Department of Ageing and Life Course at WHO, Dr John Beard, had previously noted that older adults are more likely to experience chronic conditions and often multiple conditions at the same time. Yet today’s health systems generally focus on the detection and treatment of individual acute diseases.

He had reasoned that if health systems are to meet the needs of older populations, they must provide ongoing care focused on the issues that matter to older people – chronic pain, and difficulties with hearing, seeing, walking or performing daily activities. On this basis, he noted that this requires much better integration between care providers.

The health authorities in Guyana may also want to give serious consideration to recommendations presented in the Baseline Report by WHO.

This Mike Charles photo gives an aerial view of the Kingston Seawall with the Guyana Marriott and Pegasus Hotels in the foreground

Reminiscing on Yesu Dear Editor, It was with a sense of great loss that I learnt of the passing of Dr. Yesu Persaud, a Guyanese icon who had achieved very much in his life, and one on which I could not help but reminisce as we celebrate his life.

Until his founding of the Institute of Small Enterprise Development (ISED), Yesu was someone I had read about in the news in the latter half of the 1970s and into the early 1980s. He was an executive of great standing in the Government-owned enterprises; someone whose name was associated with sugar and rum, Sandbach Parker and Jessels, and the Guyana Liquor Corporation.

Living and working in Linden, in the bauxite sector, I did not then think that we would meet.

The latter half of the 1980s was a time of change - change from the era of nationalisation of foreign and locally-owned businesses of any significance, which had been ushered in with the nationalisation of DEMBA bauxite, where I was working in 1971, until it was estimated that 85% of all economic activities were in the hands of the Government.

There was - from the early 1980s - a slow, reluctant returning to the multilateral institutions. The World Bank (WB), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB); and, in time, a reversing of previous nationalisations with privatisations and an acceptance and unshackling of private enterprise, both foreign and local.

Yesu took a leading role in the reopening of the economy and larger society as a whole, and held the view like a number of other citizens - that there should be a resurgence of local Guyanese private sector, and that this resurgent Guyanese economy should not be dominated by foreign companies.

Two persons working with Yesu in launching ISED, later called IPED, had been friends of mine: Dr. Leslie Chin, who had been a sixth-former when I entered high school in 1955, was at that time one of the leaders of the GPC (Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation) group; and Mr. Vic Oditt, my link with whom goes back to Mahaicony, and who had been at the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) working at various food products with Ms. Vashti Warner.

The launching of ISED/ IPED, and a number of subsequent meetings which I attended, provided me opportunities for my first meetings with Yesu.

In apparent coordination, Stabroek News, which itself was launched in those times, carried a daily column commending and giving examples of a small business person. ISED/IPED was favourably received by many vendors and other small start-up business entrepreneurs, and continues to contribute not only to generating new economic activities and jobs, but also a degree of social cohesion, establishing bridges between our various peoples, providing real opportunities for small people to become real big people.

The latter half of the

1980s saw new buildings being erected and new techniques being introduced.

The construction of two multi-storey buildings in Georgetown, Yesu’s DDL head- office in Main Street and the Government-owned GuySuCo Head Office in Camp Street (completed two decades later as the GRA Head Office), symbolised for some the competition between private and stateowned enterprises.

I got to know Yesu better at the public launch of GUARD (Guyanese Action for Reform and Democracy), held around 17th June 1990.

My old high school friend Clairmont Lye (of the Coal Pot Restaurant family, who later founded and headed the Election Assistance Bureau (EAB) telephoned, informing me about the intended, same-day public launching of GUARD at the Parade Ground in Georgetown, at Dutchie’s Boat Landing in Linden, and at Rose Hall.

Yesu would be the lead speaker starting at the Parade Ground, then fly to Linden to lead the speaking there, then fly on to Rose Hall. Clairmont pressed me to be the lead local supporting speaker in Linden, and I yielded. It would be two years of many Guyanese struggling in various and varying alliances for a fair and free election and an election free from fear in October 1992.

As Prime Minister up to 2015, I met with Yesu, often accompanied by our wives, on many occasions marking the rebuilding of our economy, the lifting of sprits, and a renewed, induced venturing of citizens into the social

and political life of our country. Ever so often, I met with Yesu at his office in the DDL Building in Main Street for a pleasant, cordial chat with tea and a video-taping session in his TV studio there, (Chris Ram participated in the early sessions) for a programme he hosted on one or other of our then many, many mini-TV stations.

Yesu and I differed from little to greatly, but always gently on the current policies, programmes and doings of the Government.

Those visits often gave me a chance to meet up with fellow high school mate, fellow DEMBA bauxite Scholarship awardee, and alumina plant colleague, Stanley Latchmansingh, who would tell me excitedly about DDL’s EHP vinegar production and a number of DDL’s food products - jams, jellies, cake mixes - in which he had a leading hand.

It might have been a natural thing for Yesu, with his local business leaders and international connections, to launch the first indigenous bank of our times (records suggest one or more plantation owners started a bank to serve plantation owners in the early 1800s).

I recall Yesu telling with great satisfaction of the construction of the Demerara Bank branch at Diamond, which was built after the two other banks there. He was able, with judicious selection and use of local Guyanese professionals, contractors and materials, to construct a comparable building at about two-thirds the cost of the two others.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

5

News Cop dies after crashing into parked truck

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policeman was on Thursday evening killed following an accident along the Mocha Access Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Dead is 27-yearold Faustin Magloire of Perseverance Housing Scheme, EBD. He was stationed at the North Ruimveldt Police Outpost.

Police stated that on the day in question, at about 19:30h, Magloire was driving motor car PYY 9539 at a fast rate of speed when he collided with the truck which was parked along with the road, with its lights on.

The car, Police stated, was proceeding east along the northern side of the said road when the front portion collided with the rear of the motor lorry.

As a result of the collision, the motor car end-

Dead: Faustin Magloire

ed up on the southern side of the said road where it

Cocaine, suspected stolen items seized during Police raid

collided with the rightside rear door of another

The car that was driven by Magloire

Will they ever get it right?

Dear Editor, On Wednesday, January 26th, I attended, at the National Cultural Centre (NCC), a presentation and reception celebrating India’s 72nd Republic Anniversary.

An otherwise excellent presentation was marred by gross mismanagement of stage and sound by the

staff of the Cultural Centre.

One scene change was more than 5 minutes long; it seemed interminable.

The President, senior diplomats and dignitaries were all present. When the curtains opened, and there are now new green curtains to assist with set changes, the microphone for the singer never came on, and

eventually the artists apologised for not wanting to waste any more time, and exited the stage.

Since 1981, I have produced and stage-managed over 100 productions at the Cultural Centre, and almost all productions have suffered from various technical inefficiencies inherent at the Centre. This is 2022,

Reminiscing on...

The cocaine and cannabis that were found

R

anks of the Guyana Police Force on Friday unearthed a quantity of cocaine and suspected stolen items during a raid at different locations on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Police said the raid was done from Sparendaam to Beehive, ECD. In the first instance, a 41-year-old resident of Good Hope was arrested, after a transparent plastic containing 27 parcels of a rock-like substance, suspected to be cocaine, was found in a bedroom which he was in at the time.

At the time, Police were conducting the raid looking for ammunition, firearms, stolen articles, and narcotics.

In addition, at Spliff Street, Buxton Middle Walk, ECD, Police also discov-

car, HC 2865, which was proceeding west along the southern side of the said road.

Magloire received injuries about his body and was pronounced dead at the scene. The body was taken to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for storage and to awaits a post-mortem examination.

An investigation was launched, and a notice of intended prosecution was served on both the drivers of HC 2865 and the motor lorry after which breathalyser tests were done.

No trace of alcohol was found in their systems.

ered a number of tobacco leaves and 19 zip lock bags of cannabis amounting to 48 grams.

At Logwood, ECD, cops found a flat-screen television, music set, DVD player, tablet, and a cell phone in the possession of a 32-year-old resident. The law enforcement officers said they are waiting on him to produce the necessary documents to prove legal acquisition.

During the raid, a total of 17 persons were also searched.

A 47-year-old man was arrested during that raid after he was found with 27 parcels of cocaine. He was told of the offence before being taken to Vigilance Police Station. The items were weighed in his presence, and amounted to 4 grams. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.

A construction that brought much pleasure to Yesu was in the cultural field, the creation of the Monument Gardens at the site of the long-abandoned water treatment plant at the end of the Lamaha Canal at Camp and Church Streets.

I listened to Yesu speaking at a number of occasions, stressing that whilst the Ship sculpture there was to represent the Hesperus and the Whitby, the Monument should be seen as symbolic of all the ships in which our foreparents, except for the Amerindians, arrived. We were now all together in the same boat.

The Monument Gardens would serve to recall the contribution from India to our One Guyana, which inevitably is emerging. I viewed in a similar light the annual presentation of Nytriyageet by the Sawh sisters at the National Cultural Centre, sponsored by Yesu from its launch in the early 1980s, and at which we met over nearly twenty-five years after 1992. Nytriyageet might have prompted the annual presentations of “Naya Zamana” by my friends at the Dharmic Sabha, and the

“Tribute to Fathers” by Ms. Norma Joseph on Father’s Day each year.

I thank Yesu’s support as a Guyanese national for our Guyana Prize, and his related international association with Warwick University in which David Dabydeen has had a big hand.

I thank also the Yesu Persaud Clinical Education Centre within the Georgetown Public Hospital grounds, granted

by Yesu, offering post-grad and Primary Health Care training. May successful Guyanese continue to leave their names in wood and cement, steel and glass.

In these times, with our recently discovered oil and gas, and a new generation coming to the fore in today’s different world, the passing of Yesu may well fall into the fading away of us colonial boys and girls, many of whom became teenagers during World War II; our ambitions sparked, struggling each in his/her own way for improvement, ‘Reaching for the Stars’, eagerly seeking to show what Guyana’s sons and daughters could be and do.

As happens, we

41 years later for me, and things are still the same.

I enjoyed the comfort of the brand-new green seats.

Perhaps it’s time to get some brand-new technical staff too.

Yours sincerely, Gem MadhooNascimento

FROM PAGE 4

Guyanese, intoxicated with Independence, took a turn to where the grass seemed greener, but soon found ourselves lost in the wilderness for nearly three decades.

Yesu helped to hold high a

light alive, and to help return us to a better path.

Many thanks to Yesu.

Samuel A A Hinds Former President and Prime Minister

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

H

ave fun exploring friction with this easy science experiment. All you need is a clear plastic bottle, a bag of rice, a pencil, and a funnel.

Try to lift the pencil.

If your pencil slips free, gently tap the bottle on a table to settle the rice around the pencil.

Materials:

The friction between the rice grains and pencil become so strong that you can lift the bottle without the pencil slipping free.

Clear plastic bottle Funnel Rice Pencil

Instructions:

Place the funnel in the bottle.

Fill the bottle all the way with the rice.

Insert the pencil straight down into the bottle.

How it works:

Make this a science project:

Try different items in the bottle to see if the friction is strong enough to hold onto the pencil. Try different sized bottles. Try items other than pencils in the bottle to see if they work. (sciencefun. org)

The Phoenix and the Turtle

By William Shakespeare

Let the bird of loudest lay On the sole Arabian tree Herald sad and trumpet be, To whose sound chaste wings obey.

But thou shrieking harbinger, Foul precurrer of the fiend, Augur of the fever’s end, To this troop come thou not near.

From this session interdict Every fowl of tyrant wing, Save the eagle, feather’d king; Keep the obsequy so strict.

Let the priest in surplice white, That defunctive music can, Be the death-divining swan, Lest the requiem lack his right.

And thou treble-dated crow, That thy sable gender mak’st With the breath thou giv’st and tak’st, ‘Mongst our mourners shalt thou go.

Here the anthem doth commence: Love and constancy is dead;

Phoenix and the Turtle fled In a mutual flame from hence.

Love has reason, reason none, If what parts can so remain.”

So they lov’d, as love in twain Had the essence but in one; Two distincts, division none: Number there in love was slain.

Whereupon it made this threne To the Phoenix and the Dove, Co-supremes and stars of love, As chorus to their tragic scene:

Hearts remote, yet not asunder; Distance and no space was seen ‘Twixt this Turtle and his queen: But in them it were a wonder.

So between them love did shine That the Turtle saw his right Flaming in the Phoenix’ sight: Either was the other’s mine.

Property was thus appalled That the self was not the same; Single nature’s double name Neither two nor one was called.

Reason, in itself confounded, Saw division grow together, To themselves yet either neither, Simple were so well compounded; That it cried, “How true a twain Seemeth this concordant one!

threnos Beauty, truth, and rarity, Grace in all simplicity, Here enclos’d, in cinders lie.

Death is now the Phoenix’ nest, And the Turtle’s loyal breast To eternity doth rest, Leaving no posterity: ‘Twas not their infirmity, It was married chastity.

Truth may seem but cannot be; Beauty brag but ‘tis not she; Truth and beauty buried be.

To this urn let those repair That are either true or fair; For these dead birds sigh a prayer.

Teacher's Tip “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.”

– Sam Levenson

WORD SEARCH

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GOGEC calls for more Private Sector participation in energy shift – lauds Govt’s efforts to reduce disparity between local, foreign companies

W

hile applauding the Guyana Government for its commitment towards transitioning to renewable energy at a time when the country’s oil and gas sector is booming, the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) wants to have more discourse with the Administration.

In a statement on Friday, GOGEC commended the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government on its whopping $552.9 billion Budget 2022 that was presented by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh on Wednesday.

The Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, which is headed by former Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Manniram Prashad, said it is pleased to see critical facets of the revised Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) slated for implementation this year especially as it relates to enhancing energy access and the transition to renewable energy.

“For future consideration, GOGEC wishes to engage with the Government to better leverage Private Sector participation in the accelerated diffusion of renewable energy technologies, including e-mobility solutions,” the body stated.

Nevertheless, GOGEC praised the Government’s plans to pilot the installation of fast-charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs), in Regions Three, Four, and Six. These, in addition to the existing fiscal incentives for the procurement of renewable energy equipment, are all part of the Government’s plan to influence consumer choice in favour of low- or zero-carbon options.

According to the Chamber, this initiative to implement EV charging is excellent and sets an example for the shift to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly country. In the same breath, however, it recommended that the Solar EV charging stations be implemented across all Government buildings and for State vehicles to lead the shift to a fully electric vehicle fleet.

“Government should consider a reduced tax rate for hybrid and plug-in hybrid

GOGEC President Manniram Prashad

vehicles. This will encourage customers to purchase more environmentally friendly cars, therefore reducing the emission of CO2. Also, to further expand the ecosystem of enabling policies, the Government may consider subsidies for installing the Solar PV configurations for residential EV charging.

Measures should be extended to the complete solution, which includes: panels, inverters, transformers, and batteries,” the Oil and Gas Energy Chamber suggested.

GOGEC said it sees the push towards a low carbon economy as a necessary measure in this new climate paradigm.

To this end, the body commended the injection of funding to accelerate the development of the transformative gas-to-energy project and the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project. It said these strategic investments will unlock Private Sector transformation that embraces more significant value creation through light and heavy processing and a more diverse and modernised service sector and digital economy.

Further, GOGEC outlined that the small-scale hydro projects at Kumu, Moco Moco, and Kato; and off-grid solar projects will also significantly improve access to affordable energy services with high-quality standards to develop the communities in the interior.

“Establishing a coordinated approach for the electrification of the interior is com-

mendable. It seeks to narrow the disparity between rural and urban areas and pave the way to a robust digital future for our Indigenous peoples and rural communities.”

“GOGEC looks forward to advocating for the equitable development of all energy resources and the households and industries that rely on them. In this manner, GOGEC continues to applaud proactive policies set out in the National Budget and the Low Carbon Development Strategy,” the Chamber stated.

Meanwhile, lauding Budget 2022 as reflective of the PPP/C Government’s

commitment towards creating a progressive and equitable society for all Guyanese, GOGEC “welcomes measures to reduce the fiscal disparity between local and foreign companies operating along its value chain.”

It added, “These measures will further accelerate the participation of local firms in the sector. The revised Local Content Act will support the convergence of national and foreign interests in our finite resources’ equitable and sustainable development for generations to come. This is a solid adherence to the Natural Resources Governance Institute (NRGI)

precept 5 (local effects) and precept 10 (Private Sector development).”

According to the Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, greater support to small businesses outlined in the budget will continue to nurture start-ups and position young Guyanese in the pathways for partnerships and knowledge transfer with foreign partners.

Moreover, it encouraged continued investment by both Government and Private Sector in prioritising ISO certifications to comply with globally recognised standards in services essential to harness the immense forward and backward linkages af-

forded by the oil and gas sector.

Similarly, GOGEC contended that the commercialisation of the various offshore discoveries will strongly impact the labour market dynamics of the Guyanese economy particularly the demand for oil and gas-related skills will increase as the oil and gas industry becomes more entrenched in the productive economic landscape of Guyana.

To this end, the Chamber commended Government’s expanded investment in education at all levels, including Technical and Vocational Institutions.

Redesigned flash gas compressor being tested in Germany – Exxon – slated for installation by mid-year

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nited States oil giant, ExxonMobil said plans are on track to install the upgraded flash gas compressor on the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel by mid-year as the equipment is currently being tested at the manufacturing workshop in Germany.

This was indicated

by ExxonMobil Guyana’s Media and Communication Manager, Janelle Persaud. “…As we advance plans to install an upgraded FGC (flash gas compressor) by mid-year… the redesigned FGC is currently undergoing comprehensive testing in Germany, where we have determined it will require further enhancements before installation,” Persaud said in a brief update to media operatives.

She further stated that they have also adjusted the timeline for the FGC’s delivery and installation in order to provide the highest assurance of reliable performance Currently, a third-stage flash gas compressor (FGC) that was installed on the Liza Destiny FPSO continues to operate “steadily”.

Nevertheless, Persaud noted that Exxon and the vessel’s owner, SBM Offshore, are also progressing several

alternate longer-term solutions which include new technology to bypass the second and third stage FGCs, as well as an entirely new centrifugal compressor package to replace the screw design of the current compressors.

Shortly after oil production started at the Liza-1 Field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, the Liza Destiny FPSO vessel encountered technical issues with the flash gas compressor that had to be sent to the manufacturer’s workshop in Germany for advanced repairs. This became a recurring issue that resulted in not only the scale down, and in some instances halting, of production on the Liza Destiny but also excessive flaring.

This resulted in the US oil major coming under fire in recent years as environmentalists were up in arms over environmental and safety concerns.

In response to mounting pressure, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was forced to amend the Environmental Permit for the

Liza-1 Development Project.

The regulatory body engaged Exxon’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to modify the permit back in May 2021 to include, among other things, specific regulatory requirements for flaring of associated gas offshore Guyana, in accordance with the EPA’s legislation. These were missing from the original permit that was issued under the previous APNU/AFC Administration.

The other changes to the permit are revised terms and conditions relating to emissions reporting requirements, technical considerations for

flaring and timelines for flaring events.

At the time, a cost of US$30 per ton of carbon emission was agreed upon, but that fee has since been increased to US$45 following discussions after the oil company had submitted another application to flare for an additional 90 days in August last year.

However, for the initial flaring period, the 36-day application that took effect in late May had racked up in excess of $400 million (US$1.9 million). This was paid to Government between late July and early August last year.

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

UG student gets bail for uttering forged driver’s licence A

man who said he is a student at the University of Guyana (UG) has been charged with uttering a forged driver’s licence to a Police rank, and has been slapped with two charges in this regard.

Shaquan Caesar, 21, appeared before Georgetown Magistrate Leron Daly to answer to charges accusing him of forging a Guyana driver’s licence in the name of Anthony Jacobs, and uttering the document to Police Constable

Collins on January 25, 2022 at Brickdam, Georgetown.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was released on $200,000 bail. He is scheduled to return to court on March 4.

On the day in question, a Police rank was on motorcycle patrol when he observed Caesar driving a passenger minibus out of its designated route. The rank stopped the bus and asked Caesar to produce his licence and other documents.

Shaquan Caesar

Upon examining the driver’s licence at the Police station, the rank observed that it bore Caesar’s photograph but not his name. Further investigations were carried out, and it was revealed that Caesar had uttered a licence belonging to one Anthony Jacobs.

When told of the offence committed, Caesar told the Policeman that he had paid someone at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to insert his picture on the licence.

Remanded: Leon Lewis

Remanded: Ravin Singh

17 by ranks of the Special Organised Crime Unit

(CANU), will return to court on February 21 for report.

Salesman, mason remanded after found with stolen car

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wo men have on Tuesday been remanded to prison by Sparendaam Magistrate Alisha George for allegedly receiving a stolen car.

Leon Lewis, 30, a salesman of Lamaha Springs, South Ruimveldt Georgetown, and Ravin Singh, 24, a mechanic of Public Road, Montrose, East Coast Demerara (ECD), have both plead-

ed not guilty to the charge, which detailed that the offence was committed contrary to Section 263 (1) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act. The car, a white Toyota Fielder Wagon, was stolen from Tyrone Pires, 44, a taxi driver of Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Lewis and Singh, who were arrested on January

Fallout...

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…from PNC infighting he PNC seem determined to keep the PPP in Government for the next decade or two. Not that they actually WANT this outcome, but their actions - which are all deliberate - will clearly DELIVER that outcome. And in law, your Eyewitness understands, this is the very definition of “intent”: to perform an action even when MOTIVE is absent!! And one is responsible for action when there’s the requisite intent!!

It all began with the man who’s now saddled with the “false” name “Sanctimonious Gangster”, when he was drafted by PNC Leader Corbin to take over. They told him the image of the PNC was too “thuggish”, and needed to be remade as “kinder and gentler”! Up to then, the fella was enjoying his retirement from being an ex-general in the army, and was producing a monthly magazine that gave him an outlet for his post-Army historian and journalistic training. He was also a regular churchgoer.

Okay…Okay… if that made him an “armchair” general, so be it!! But he wasn’t bothering anybody, was he?

So, he came aboard for the good of the PNC - and because he owed his career to Burnham, who’d sent him off to army school in England fresh from A-Levels at Queen’s. He was an unabashed Burnhamite, and - as he soon confessed - had joined the PNC the moment he returned in 1965. Point of the matter is he then acted in the highest tradition of Burnham and the PNC when he consulted nobody and made decisions on his lonesome! Including refusing to accept the clear dictate of the constitution to resign following an NCM! The PNC base loved him!! He was the best thing since bake and saltfish!!

Same when he tried to rig the elections (a la Burnham) via the Mingo Machinations! But when he suggested a Caricom-vetted recount, how was he to know that the leaders wouldn’t support him? Hadn’t they supported Burnham for decades doing the same dirty deed? But when Mia Mottley and company were forced to concede the elections, they viciously turned on him. He was called a coward, inept, a poor strategist, and worse.

So, with the US and UK standing behind Mia, how dare he “accept the things he couldn’t change”?!!? The second tier of the PNC and some extremists from outside - who saw their opportunity to get their hands on the oil money slip away - turned on him like hyenas! It was downright ugly!! Through it all, Granger has kept his cool. But your Eyewitness knows that hell hath no fury like a general scorned. He retains the trump card.

Revenge is best served cold. Grab your popcorn and watch the show unfold!! …from the senior brigade Now, the Budget has lots of goodies for most folks, but it was heavily focused on strategically providing infrastructure for business expansion, to increase jobs. That’s for young people!! From your (diligent) Eyewitness’s survey of the letters’ column - and more so social media - there’s one demographic that feels very, very slighted: the over-65 brigade collecting “old-age pension” (OAP).

The PNC had increased the OAP between 2015 and 2016 from $13,125 to $18,200 - a $5000 increase of 38%!! By the time they were ousted, pensions had reached $20,500 - another $2,300, or 11%!! Now the increase for this most vulnerable group by the PPP in Jan 2021 was a decent $4500 to $25,000 - 22%. But in THIS budget, it’s a measly $3000, or 12%!! Surely, the Government could’ve done better. What can these folks buy with $3000 - especially with the extraordinary rise in food prices??

Even at a political level, the Govt shouldn’t take the 60,000 pensioners for granted. They’re a critical swing vote when there’s only a 2-seat margin!! …among prisoners At long last, there’s some focus on rehabilitating prisoners in the Budget. In an undoubtedly growing economy, we need all hands on deck.

We can’t ignore those who might’ve fallen into criminal behaviour because of no job opportunities.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

9 Govt hands over Core Homes to 6 low-income families NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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ix families on Friday received the keys to their new home under the Housing and Water Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority’s Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility

The recipients received their keys from officials of the Housing Ministry

Programme (AHUAP).

The homes are funded to the tune of $4 million each, by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and fall under the Core Home Support component of the AHUAP.

The families, all within the Lust-en-Rust and La Parfaite Harmonie Scheme, West Bank Demerara (WBD), each received the keys to the two-bedroom, 20ft x 20ft, concrete home during a simple handing

PNC leaders meet AFC leaders on appointment of new Opposition Leader – discussions to continue on Tuesday

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

PNC Leader Aubrey Norton

eaders of People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) – the leading party in the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) faction of the coalition Opposition – met with their counterparts from the Alliance For Change (AFC) on Friday afternoon to discuss the appointment of a new Leader of the Opposition, among other issues.

General Secretary of the AFC, David Patterson told Guyana Times on Friday evening that the two parties discussed “all the issues we had that were current. We decided that we would meet again on Tuesday”.

Asked whether any decision was made as it relates to a new Opposition Leader, Patterson stated that this will be done at Tuesday’s engagement.

Meanwhile, repeated efforts to contact several senior PNCR officials on Friday evening proved futile.

However, at a press conference earlier that day, PNC General Secretary,

Geeta Chandan-Edmond told reporters that the sole agenda of Friday’s meeting with the AFC is to discuss “parliamentary affairs.”

“So anything that touches and relates to parliamentary matters, we will be discussing those on the table,” she had said.

Earlier this month, it was reported that the PNCR Central Executive had decided the party’s leader, Aubrey Norton, should hold the post of Opposition Leader.

While he initially refused to step down, Joseph Harmon on Wednesday resigned as Opposition Leader.

However, since Norton is not a current Member of Parliament, it was reported that Opposition parliamentarians, Roysdale Forde and Amanza Walton-Desir, were being considered for the post.

But at Friday’s press conference, PNC Chairman Shurwayne Holder contended that the party has already made a decision on its nomination for the Opposition Leader position,

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ruling out that other candidates are being considered for the post.

“I can say without a shadow of a doubt that there have been no such discussions [on the consideration of other candidates for the Opposition Leader position] by our party… Our party has made a decision on this matter as to who should be the Leader of the Opposition, and that is where it remains,” he stated.

Holder also indicated that the PNC has already started engaging some of its partners within the APNU grouping, which is the majority party in the coalition Opposition.

Earlier this week, Harmon had also resigned as General Secretary of the APNU, and former PNC Leader David Granger stepped down as Chairman.

Norton has since assumed leadership of the APNU and is also looking to take over as Head of the APNU/AFC List of Candidates – a position that is currently held by Granger.

In fact, PNC General Secretary told reporters on Friday that consultations are ongoing to determine the procedure in moving forward with this issue. She had stated too that the PNC will be discussing this with the AFC. But Patterson informed this newspaper after Friday’s meeting this matter did not come up for discussion.

However, AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan, who is the Deputy Head of the List, had previously made it clear that the established procedures must be followed before the Representative of the List can be changed.

over ceremony on Friday.

The keys were presented by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal in the presence of CHPA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sherwyn Greaves, Deputy Director of Community Development Donell BessBascom and Regional Chairman Ishan Ayube.

The six beneficiaries are

Althea Prowell, Candace Cort, Donna Marques, Natoya Stanford, Shelleicha Allen and Raymond Smith and Sasha Smith.

Each family had received low-income lots from the Central Housing and Planning Authority but for varying reasons were unable to commence construction.

However, in 2020 they were

approved for Core Home Support by the IDB and with only a contribution of $100,000 they now have stable and comfortable homes.

“I feel excited about owning a home of my own for myself not just a house for me and my children,” said mother of two, Shelleicha Allen, whose financial challenges prevented her from building her own house after she was allocated a CHPA land in 2014.

Another mother of two children, Stanford, who is renting a tiny apartment for herself and her children, stated that the home will significantly transform the family’s life, as she is no longer in fear of eviction. She excitedly noted that she now plans to extend to make the home even more comfortable for her kids.

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10 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US Embassy donates BoG to introduce $2000 note in 2 weeks vehicles to MoH T

he Bank of Guyana plans to introduce a $2000 bill. Specimens have already been sent to commercial banks and it is expected to be in circulation by February 14, 2022.

The introduction of this new note is in commemoration of the country’s 55 years of independence.

The note will carry the national flower and will feature the Guyanese flag reflecting the country’s identity, the WaiWai pattern in respect of the country’s cultural heritage, and the message of One Guyana.

The new denomination will be printed on a substrate called polymer, already popular around the world for its se-

curity features, durability, cleanliness and lower impact on the environment.

ICT Lab commissioned at Redeemer Primary School US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch with Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and other officials at the handing-over ceremony

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he United States Government donated to the Health Ministry on Friday three vehicles worth in the vicinity of US$71,000. These vehicles - a Nissan pickup truck, a Nissan eight-passenger van, and a Toyota ambulance - were presented to Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony by US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch.

The donation was made through the Department of Defense Overseas

Humanitarian Disaster and Civic Aid Excess Property programme. An additional component of this donation including exam tables, a physical therapy table, wheelchairs and blankets with a combined value of US$45,000, recently arrived in Guyana and currently being cleared through the Customs Department.

In her remarks, the Ambassador reiterated the ongoing commitment the United States has to Guyana

and its people, in addition to the almost US$6.5 million donated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The vehicles we’re handing over today are not specific to our COVID assistance.

They are in response to requests made by the Ministry to assist with access to patients. We hope that they help the Government serve the people of Guyana with efficiency,” the US envoy has said.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand officially commissioning the ICT Lab at Redeemer Primary School

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ducation Minister Priya Manickchand on Friday commissioned an Information C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Technology Laboratory at the Redeemer Primary School in Campbellville, Georgetown.

In brief remarks, Minister Manickchand stated that the primary school is the first to be fully connected with 100 megabits of bandwidth and fibre-optic cable.

This primary school is also the first to have internet access in every classroom.

As such, the Redeemer Primary School will be used as a model of the flipped learning approach, meaning that students would be engaged using both traditional methods and ICT devices.

“The entire school is ready to go online. Every single classroom is now connected with the fibre-optic cable, which means this is the school we will be modelling the blended approach from where students can be in the classroom using both the blackboard and the traditional means of education, as well as using their tablets and devices for work in each classroom,” the Minister has said.

The ICT Lab is equipped with 18 computer systems that would be utilised by the students.

NEWS

11

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4 more die from COVID, death toll now 1160 – authorities monitoring over 5000 active cases

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 28, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

375

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

218

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

10,912

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

18

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

16

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

31,687

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

27,292

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

58,979

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

46,671

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

422,727

FULLY IMMUNISED

311,796

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

1160

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use hand-sanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

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uyana’s death toll from the coronavirus pandemic has moved to 1160, with the deaths of four more persons from Region Four.

The Health Ministry reported on Friday that the new fatalities included three males: a 75-year-old who died on January 25; a 57-year-old who died on January 27; and an 82-yearold who died on January 28. The fourth person is an 80-year-old woman, who succumbed on January 26.

Only one of these persons was fully vaccinated.

In total, 27,292 men have been infected with the virus, when compared to 31,687 women. However, new statistics provided by the Ministry showed that 375 new cases of the virus were recorded, thus taking the total positives recorded to date to 58,979.

Some 18 persons are being monitored in the ICU, 218 in institutional isolation, 10,912 in home isolation and 16 in institutional quarantine. Recoveries stand at 46,671.

A total of 502,565 COVID-19 tests have been administered since the virus was detected in Guyana back in March 2020.

Regionally, a breakdown showed 12 new infections

were detected in Region One (Barima-Waini); four in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 65 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 185 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); five in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 34 in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); 12 in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); one in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and 16 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

There was no increase in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

Meanwhile, from the surplus of 12,000 active coronavirus infections in Guyana, a whopping 5093 were from Georgetown.

These statistics were provided by Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Friday during the COVID briefing. He noted that while the positives are dispersed among communities, a significant 591 cases are in Kitty, 376 in Sophia, 312 in South Ruimveldt, 269 in Campbellville, 269 in Lodge and 268 in Cummings Lodge.

Across Guyana, 12,357 active cases are being monitored – 157 of which are hospitalised. At the Infectious Diseases Hospital, 103 patients are seeking treatment for COVID-19.

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

2135

REGION 2

2244

REGION 3

7647

REGION 4

29,621

REGION 5

2190

REGION 6

5316

REGION 7

2342

REGION 8

738

REGION 9

3338

REGION 10

3408

Other hotspots and accompanying active infections include Mabaruma (77) in Region One (BarimaWaini); Charity (30), Anna Regina (20), Richmond (14) in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); La Parfaite Harmonie (229), Tuschen (157), Pouderoyen (104), Vreed-en-Hoop (88), Crane (87), Cornelia Ida (80), Uitvlugt (70); and Goed Fortuin (68) in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

Throughout Region Three, there are 2315 active cases.

Over in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), there are 698 active cases on the East Bank of Demerara including Diamond (107), Grove (101), Eccles (63), Providence (55), Herstelling (40) and Mocha (35).

As it relates to the East Coast, there are 928 active infections spanning Mon Repos (65), Better Hope (50), Enmore (37), Non Pariel (36), Annadale (35), Lusignan

(35), Haslington (32), Beterverwagting (30), Good Hope (29) and Paradise (29).

Meanwhile, Bath Settlement (23), Bel Air (21), Hugo Chavez Centre (20) and Rosignol (19) in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) are locations of interest.

New Amsterdam (90) in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); Bartica (264) in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Mahdia (35) in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni); Lethem (66), St Ignatius (52), Tapachinga (36) in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo);

and Wismar (211), Amelia’s Ward (179), McKenzie (77) and Wisroc (35), Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are also under monitoring.

The surge in cases currently witnessed across countries is said to be linked to the circulation of the Omicron strain – the latest variant of concern.

Nevertheless, vaccination continues among the population, with 422,727 first dose uptake among the adult population or 82.4 per cent. Second doses are at 311,796 or 73.8 per cent.

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12 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

National Oil Spill Committee, US Coast Guard complete risk assessment training – more oil spill response activities slated for this year

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he United States Coast Guard (USCG), in collaboration with the US State Department on Thursday concluded a three-day workshop with

members of the National Oil Spill Committee. This workshop was geared at assessing the risks associated with several oil spill-related scenarios along Guyana’s coast.

This activity is part of a six-month series of joint operations designed to aid Guyana in the development of an efficient national response mechanism and to

enhance maritime oil spill prevention, planning and response capabilities.

The National Oil Spill Committee is comprised of agencies such as the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, The Hydrometeorological Office thru the Ministry of Agriculture, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Guyana Marine Conservation Society, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the GDF Coast

Guard.

The virtual workshop (held on January 18, 26 and 27) built on the progress Guyana has made with the development of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan.

The USCG facilitators guided the workshop participants through a myriad of oil spill scenarios so as to ascertain the most probable and consequential outcomes. Those results were then used to outline possible improvements to the national oil spill plan.

Stakeholder engagement and feedback were consistent and helpful throughout the three-day activity.

Environmental, cultural, social, health, and other factors were weighed when assessing the risk and vulnerability relevant to each community along Guyana’s coastland.

Protected areas were identified and geolocations for sensitive sites were also inputted. CDC’s Preparedness and Response Manager, Major Salim October, lauded the workshop as an extremely fruitful process.

He said that since Guyana is still relatively new to the oil and gas sector such insight and thorough planning is essential.

Major October added, “This puts Guyana at a great advantage in terms of planning ahead and preparing for almost every likely scenario. The workshop took

into account local dynamics in several arenas and birthed a result that the Guyanese people will be comfortable with. We still have many other activities over the next few months to further prepare us but we are in a good position at this moment.”

Director General of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig indicated his satisfaction with the support received from the US Government. He was also grateful to the stakeholders for their continued commitment in building Guyana’s Oil Spill Response Capacity.

“There will be a consistent capacity enhancement as Guyana gains experience working with oil and gas companies and agencies…” added the Director General.

Other Oil Spill Committee members added their knowledge and expertise to the venture in order to make it a resounding success. The Guyana Marine Conservation Society, MARAD, EPA, GGMC and GDF Coast Guard gave tremendous scope to the scenarios which allowed the facilitators to adjust their estimates accordingly.

The remaining activities for the National Oil Spill Committee in 2022 will include a virtual Programme Management Training exercise and in-person exchanges to observe oil spill response exercises.

4 more die from...

For adolescents, 22,862 or 31.3 per cent are fully vaccinated. Some 37,598 persons have returned for their booster shots.

Government started administering booster shots after studies around the world showed that the efficacy of the vaccines wanes after six months of receiving both doses.

Persons have been encouraged to take the booster dose, since protection against the disease would wane after months of complete immunisation. This month, some 18,000 new infections were reported with the rise of the Omicron variant – a percentage of which was pregnant women.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the pro-

FROM PAGE 11

tocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures, which are in effect until January 31, 2022. This order emphasises the need for everyone, 12 years and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19; the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Acquiring a university education was our main goal” – sisters detail journey at UG

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wenty-eight-year-old Towanna CrandonPrimo and 26-yearold Kaleda Crandon, of Carmichael Street, Georgetown (where they grew up), are sisters. They are the first in their family to have acquired an education from the nation’s premier tertiary educationprovider, the University of Guyana.

These siblings are on a mission to excel in their respective career paths. They explained that they are fully cognisant of the fact that, in order to do so, they would need to equip themselves with the skills needed to be the best at what they do. They bravely took on the challenge, and enrolled at the University of Guyana a few years ago.

They have now completed that journey, and, in a matter of days, will be “walking” the virtual graduation stage when the University hosts its upcoming series of virtual ceremonies, beginning February 4.

Towanna CrandonPrimo, who currently serves as an Immigration officer, will be graduating from the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation (SEBI) with a Diploma in Public Management, while her younger sister Kaleda Crandon will be graduating with a Degree in Marketing.

According to Towanna, one of her biggest challenges was readjusting to studying, as she had taken some time after completing high school to commence her

university studies. “My biggest challenge was getting back into study mode after 9 years. I had to get accustomed to studying and attending classes. I also had to cope with online learning when it first started because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But overall, my journey was a little bit of fun mixed with a lot of sleepless nights. However, I will not lie, it was worth it in the end.”

She added: “I started a schedule for studying. This helped me to keep track of what I needed to do for my different courses. I got accustomed to online classes, and it would actually be my first choice now if I had to choose between that and face-to-face learning.”

The proud graduand has expressed sincere gratitude to her immediate family members, especially her husband. “My main motivation was the support from my husband and my job as an Immigration officer. I wanted to push myself academically to learn new things. My husband was also by my side, giving me the extra-push I needed,” she reflected.

Towanna’s words of wisdom to the younger generation are: “It will be challenging, but keep pushing and do not give up. It will be worth it in the long run, and you will graduate feeling proud of yourself, because it is not an easy road.”

Meanwhile, Towanna’s sibling Kaleda Crandon, who will be graduating with a degree in Marketing,

Govt hands over...

“As a poor person, I couldn’t reach the amount of money I was looking for to build something properly,” said Smith. Smith had a makeshift home at his La Parfaite Harmonie CHPA allocated lot with his wife and children. He also noted that the home will now upgrade the living standard of his family.

On the occasion Chief Executive Officer, Greaves noted his pleasure at being able to deliver these homes to the more than deserving families.

“We must commend the IDB and the Ministry of Finance for coming up with this initiative which has been promoted and encouraged by the Government and President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who is very passionate about helping those in need.”

The Regional Chairman, Ayube, dubbed it as a representation of the commit-

ment of the Government to all citizens of Guyana.

“As development unfolds in Region 3 it makes my work easier…as it mitigates complaints in certain areas.

As development continues in the country because of our diverse society, it is important that every citizen and in this case every resident in Region 3, benefit from the development,” Ayube stated.

Meanwhile, Minister Croal in his remarks to the beneficiaries noted that this venture is a demonstration of what the Government means when it speaks about affordable housing.

“This is also a part of our mandate, to deliver to the people of Guyana and as part of our housing policy to meet the need of all categories of persons notwithstanding of background, political persuasion…and this is also a demonstration of what we mean when we talk about One Guyana.”

Towanna Crandon-Primo and Kaleda Crandon

noted that her parents motivated her to further her education. “My parents never had the opportunity to complete secondary school and further their education, so this was one of my major motivations,” she explained.

Asked how UG has shaped her life, a smiling Kaleda replied: “Here I am, after 4 years of vigorous studies, with a degree in Marketing. The University has changed my way of thinking, and helped me to become a better critical thinker.”

FROM PAGE 9

Another 14 families within the La Parfaite Harmonie Housing Development are also expected to be presented with their Core Homes soon.

The Core Home Support initiative is one aspect of the Adequate and Affordable Housing component aimed at helping low-income vulnerable Guyanese in poor living conditions.

The other aspect is the Home Improvement Subsidy, which enables persons in the target boundaries to receive up to $500,000 in materials to upgrade their homes free of cost. The boundary currently encompasses, the La Parfaite Harmonie Housing Development in Region Three; Georgetown to Grove on the East Bank of Demerara, Region Four; Georgetown to La Bonne Intention and nineteen other select communities on the East Coast of Demerara, Region Four.

One of Kaleda’s biggest challenges was completing her studies and balancing a full-time job. “It was challenging having to work and attend the University of Guyana, because having to focus on projects at work and staying up late to catch up on studies and assignments was a challenge for me,” the proud graduand explained.

In offering words of advice to other students, Kaleda urged: “Do not underestimate the study materials. Always try to keep ahead of your studies.”

A record number of attendees are expected this year, since, due to the online nature of the event, there will be no limit to the number of invitees who can join the proceedings.

Members of the public are invited to view this year’s ceremonies on the University of Guyana’s Facebook page @uniofguyana. (UG feature)

14 NEWS New Atlantic Reader series geared at improving Guyana’s literacy rate SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…to be translated into Indigenous languages, Spanish

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he specialised Atlantic Reader Series, launched by the Education Ministry on Friday, now provides relevant learning materials for Guyanese students and is geared at improving the country’s literacy performance.

The six-book reader and workbook series, first conceptualised in 2012, was developed by local educators and finally completed. It is expected to ensure that children are able to read at the appropriate level and enhance the phonetic capability of both hinterland and coastal students.

In Guyana, it is expected that children should be able to read by the Grade Four level.

Initially, a study that researched the literacy level of schools found that there was a need for improvement. Thereafter, there

was a search to improve the scope of performance and then the first lap of the series was commissioned.

Throughout the past 18 months, work commenced to complete the last three books of the series and re-edit the first three that were published. Embedded in the materials are the five core literacy skills: listening, thinking, speaking, reading, and writing.

Assistant Chief Education Officer (Literacy), Samantha Williams said this series is a production of the Ministry and a boast for the region. Locals were tasked with identifying the demographic uniqueness of the country and using a blend of themes to develop resources critical to reading skills.

“Immense trust was placed in the hands of local writers. We were tasked with creating a reading re-

source that would satisfy the diverse needs of all learners as well as a resource that would meet the cultural complexities of our multi-ethnic society, while still considering the demographic uniqueness of all our primary children,” she briefed.

Chief Education Officer, Dr Marcel Hutson identified that if students are not able to read in the initial stages in life, it is challenging for them to progress in their school life. Dr Hutson professed that these books have the proclivity to gain international acclaim, and the potential to be used in Caribbean countries.

“We are extremely proud that this is a Guyanese product. The way these books were written, we believe that they have the propensity to gain international acclaim because I’m sure Caribbean countries

when they would have gone through this product, they may very well want to buy it,” the CEO pitched.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Priya Manickchand mandated that the Ministry will monitor how effectively they are being used in the classrooms. It is available to any country that wants them. It will be translated into Indigenous and foreign languages.

“We will have to make sure that we monitor and evaluate how effectively these resources are being used in the classroom.

To write them and publish them is just a little tip of what we need from these books. What we need from these books is every single child, regardless of if you’re coming from the hinterland or Georgetown or Essequibo or the Corentyne, that every child is reading at Grade Four,” Manickchand posi-

The newly completed Atlantic Reader series

tioned.

Now onwards, the Minister said, is a call to teachers to hold themselves accountable at a higher standard and indicate when children are below par of the required performing scope.

“If the children got to be reading at Grade Four, then you have specific things that you have to finish at Grade One. And if they’re not finished with particular children, even if it’s three out of

the 52, you have to bring to your supervisor’s attention that these three children need further work.”

It was pointed out that at the National Grade Six Assessment, a percentage of children scored zero because they could not read.

Each child will receive a workbook and reader, procured from the $1.2 billion that was earmarked in the 2022 budget for textbooks.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

After more than a decade

Guyana gets updated Consolidated Index of Statutes and Subsidiary Legislation

OPM to establish Guyana Media Communications Academy

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

T

he Attorney General’s Chambers and Legal Affairs Ministry in collaboration with the IMPACT Justice Project, and the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill, Barbados, has completed an updated Consolidated Index of the Statutes and Subsidiary Legislation for Guyana as of January 1, 2021.

The chambers received the first shipment of copies of the Consolidated Index 2021, shipped from Barbados, on Tuesday, and will be disseminating copies to key stakeholders in the coming days. The Consolidated Index 2021 was compiled, printed, and published by the Faculty of the Law Library of UWI, Cave Hill.

The last Consolidated Index was produced more than a decade ago, and only contains Guyana’s statutes and subsidiary legislation passed up to January 2011. On Friday, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, met with the Regional Project Director of IMPACT Justice, Professor Velma Newton, to thank her for the works.

The Attorney General said that the updated Consolidated Index 2021 will be instrumental in allowing stakeholders to appraise themselves of each and every one of Guyana’s existing statutes and subsidiary legislation. Nandlall noted that the Government is aware that Guyana’s new developmental trajectory has triggered a need for heightened awareness of and access to relevant laws across all sectors.

As such, he expressed confidence that the Consolidated Index 2021 will go a far way in allowing stakeholders to inform themselves and, indeed, the public of these laws.

Plans are being made for copies of the Consolidated Index 2021 to be delivered to Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; President of the Guyana Bar Association Pauline Chase; President of the Berbice Bar Association Horatio Edmonson; Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir; Director of Public Prosecutions Shalimar Ali Hack, SC; Commissioner of Police Nigel Hoppie; Chairman of the Law Reform Commission, Justice of Appeal (retired) BS Roy; and Head of the University of Guyana’s Department of Law Kim Kyte-Thomas.

Officer, once minibus drivers and conductors are caught in untidy attire, they can be charged.

“Once they are caught, we will have the laws to deal with them…. The conductors too. Untidy conductor… and the drivers,” he emphasised.

Further, the Traffic Officer said drivers and conductors who smoke cigarettes (and other products) in public, as well as those who consume alcohol while on the job, will be dealt with accordingly.

“Some of them that smoking, and wanna take the risk of driving and drinking. Well, they will face the consequences once they are caught. They will face the consequence of their recklessness, as simple as that,” Williams contended.

The Traffic Officer is encouraging persons who travel in minibuses in which unprofessional or dangerous behaviours are taking place to speak out.

“If a member of the public goes into a minibus and that is happening, he has a right to speak to the driv-

er…and if he attempts to put you out of that vehicle, all you need to do is give us a short statement as to where and when it occurred and the number of the vehicle, and we take it from there,” the senior Police official explained.

In December 2019, a conductor and driver who were caught on camera behaving in a reckless and dangerous manner were arrested and charged for several offences, including for being untidy. The driver, Trevin BobbSemple, 28, of South Better Hope, ECD and of Timehri Dock Road, East Bank Demerara, was charged with tinted motor vehicle; untidy driver; failure to have control of motor vehicle; breach of condition of road service licence, and dangerous driving. In addition, his driver’s licence was suspended until the determination of those cases.

Moreover, conductor Jermaine Waldron, 27, of Haslington, ECD, was fined $7,500 for being an untidy conductor, and $25,000 for failing to ensure passengers’ safety.

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he Department of Public Affairs of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has finalised modalities for the establishment of the Guyana Media and Communications Academy in partnership with Coursera.

The Academy has been conceptualised as a needed intervention that could help to upskill and further professionalise the local industry for the rapidly transforming socio-economic landscape, with media and communication practitioners across the public and private spectrum being provided opportunity to gain world-class competencies and certifications as part of Government’s national retooling efforts.

Importantly, the Academy would fill the existing void in regard to professional skill-based accreditation for local industry players, as regis-

trants would be able to attain the professional status of ‘Accredited’, ‘Specialist’ or ‘Expert’ practitioners based on successful completion of prescribed courses for the various study streams under the Academy’s ‘Continuous Media Education’-CMED platform.

Ahead of a formal agreement to be signed shortly to bring the Academy into full operation, CEO of Coursera, Jeff Maggioncalda, said: “We are honoured to partner with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, to prepare the Government’s media and communication personnel for a digital future.

“This collaboration will help the Department of Public Affairs develop the high-demand skills needed to communicate crucial policy initiatives and maintain transparency across key Government programmes amid rapid transformation, while raising the bar for media across the country.”

Minister McCoy has expressed high optimism that the Academy, which has been long in the making, would serve as a significant booster to the local industry.

“Until now, the vast majority of media and communication personnel in Guyana were learning the fundamental industry skills needed for professional practice through trial and error. The Coursera partnership for the Academy will now open up a wide vista of world-class knowledge and

Coursera CEO Jeff Maggioncalda

skills that will carry international certification and effectively pave the way for recognised skill-based accreditation of both public and private practitioners.”

Coursera, which was launched in 2012, is now one of the largest learning platforms in the world, with 92 million registered learners as at September 30, 2021. Coursera collaborates with over 250 leading university and industry partners, including Yale University, University of Michigan, Google and IBM, to offer a broad catalogue of content and credentials, including courses, specialisations, professional certificates, guided projects, and Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Institutions and Governments around the world use Coursera to upskill and reskill their employees and citizens.

“Mudwata” arrested for Police to clamp down on untidy, cyberbullying reckless minibus drivers, conductors

By LaWanda McAllister

T

he Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced its intention to conduct countrywide exercises aimed at clamping down on untidy minibus drivers and conductors.

This was revealed by Divisional Traffic Officer of Division 4A – (Georgetown), Deputy Superintendent Timothy Williams, during a recent programme hosted by the GPF. Williams has said that the minibus culture in Guyana poses many challenges for the Police Force, and it is time that this matter be dealt with aggressively.

“Some of these minibus drivers, their attire is atrocious. If you go to a bus, you notice some of the drivers: young men with their boxers exposed, they have on a t-shirt with lude writing and all of that, and they are offering a service to members of the public. We cannot continue with that!” he declared.

According to this Traffic

T

Keron Bruce (left) and animated character “Mudwata” (right)

he Guyana Police Force on Friday arrested Keron Bruce, who is disguised under the cartoon character “Mudwata” for cyberbullying. The Police stated that along with Bruce, several other persons are being questioned as investigations continue.

The Police stated that in addition to the arrest, several pieces of electronic equipment were seized from Bruce’s DD Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home. In addition, several voice messages were also

collected which when analysed, matched with the “Mudwata” commentary.

His arrest came days after Owner and Editor of Big Smith News Watch had offered a $1 million reward for the proper identity of the cartoon character. Smith made this offer after a video was posted by “Mudwata” aggressively attacking him.

Smith, after the arrest, had stated that several persons had come forward with information about the “cartoon character”. As such, a court order was issued to

search his house for any evidence that would pin him to the character.

The Police are obliged under the provisions of the Cyber Crime Act 2018 to investigate any report made with respect to cyberbullying - a legislation that was passed under the previous APNU/AFC Administration.

Meanwhile, upon the conclusion of the investigation, the Police will seek legal advice on the way forward.

He was released on $100,000 bail.

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Education Minister presents Pro Chancellor’s Award to Best UG Law student Law student for 2022 with the Pro Chancellor’s Award.

The simple ceremony was done at the Minister’s 26 Brickdam Office.

Present were Harris’ sister, Director, Department of Events, Conferences & Communication, Janarine Deonauth along with members of his team and University of Guyana Head Usher, Karen RobertsLuke.

The 21-year-old began her academic journey at the University of Guyana in 2019 and will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law with a

3.8 GPA. She is currently enrolled at the Hugh Wooding Law School where she is reading for her Legal Education Certificate.

The first year Hugh Wooding Law School student told Minister Manickchand that she is currently interning with the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, and has a keen interest in Constitutional Law. Minister Manickchand congratulated Harris on her achievements and encouraged her to continue striving for excellence.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Rea Cilicia Harris

Linden man remanded on burglary charge Education Minister Priya Manickchand presenting Rea Cilicia Harris with the Pro Chancellor’s Award

E

ducation Minister Priya Manickchand on Friday after-

noon presented Rea Cilicia Harris, the University of Guyana’s Best Graduating

A

33-year-old labourer of 126 First Alley, Wismar, Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) was remanded to prison on a burglary charge

when he appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune on Tuesday at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

Algrande Lyte also known as “Charles Lyte,”

pleaded not guilty to the charge which was laid contrary to Section 233 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 08:01.

He allegedly commit-

ted the offence on April 28, 2021, on a 52-year-old driver of Amelia’s Ward, Linden.

Lyte’s next court date is February 21.

CIOG spearheads medical outreach in Amerindian communities

Distribution of Items to the public

Military Information Support Team – Team Leader David Giraldo assisting the elderly to the Doctor at St. Cuthbert's

T

he Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) spearheaded a medical outreach in St Cuthbert’s

Mission and Santa Mission on January 23 and 27, respectively.

The initiative was supported by the US Embassy’s Military

Information Support Team, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), TSI Security services and Sterling Products Limited.

The main purpose of the outreach was to provide medical assistance to the communities in general. The residents were able to have their blood pressure and glucose levels tested, access to mental healthcare, provision of over-the-counter medication, and overall general medical checkups, whereas the children were able to gain paediatric healthcare.

The residents were also provided with first aid training. The medical team was able to provide assistance to over 600 persons in the communities inclusive of children, the elderly, and the disabled.

Along with the medical

The U.S Embassy to Guyana Military Information Support Team; incoming team leader-George Cabarrus handing over stationery supplies to the HM of the primary and nursery schools in Santa Mission

care provided, the residents were presented with packages that catered for their daily needs inclusive of hair and skincare products, san-

itation products, mosquito nets, clothing, both children and adult diapers, food substances and stationery for the children.

Both communities’ health centres were provided with a wide range of medical items that would cater to daily health ailments.

The school in Santa Mission was provided with a variety of reading books and stationery by team members of the US Embassy to Guyana Military Information Support Team who also provided further assistance to the school by installing and setting up their computers.

The CIOG expressed thanks to the Toshao of St Cuthbert’s Mission, Timothy Andrews and the Toshao of Santa Mission (Santa Aratak) Hilton Williams and their communities for their kind support and cooperation and to the doctors and others who gave their time and services voluntarily in making this humanitarian effort a successful one.

NEWS

17

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$4.5B announced in budget to modernise, reform justice system

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he justice sector plays an important role in every democratic society. Not only is it essential for upholding the rule of law, but it also ensures good governance and respect for human rights.

Recognising that the stability and strength of the justice sector are paramount to public trust and investor confidence, the Government has set aside $4.5 billion in the 2022 budget to fund various works for advancing the sector.

Of this sum, $1.3 billion will fund the completion of the Port Kaituma, Mabaruma, and Vigilance Magistrate’s Courts, additional magistrates’ courts, and living quarters for judicial officers in Friendship and Timehri on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) and will aid in the timely delivery of justice to the citizenry especially in underserved areas.

While delivering his bud-

get speech on Wednesday in the National Assembly, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh noted that these investments will increase the number of courts around the country from 41 to 46 and will result in improved access to the justice system at a reduced cost to the populace.

In 2021, $879 million was spent on the completion and construction of courts and living quarters countrywide which will result in courts at Bartica and Mahdia becoming operational this year. In recent times, the Judiciary has been praised for decentralising the magistracy given the country’s geographical layout, which makes travelling and communication very challenging at times.

In December 2020, the Government launched several container courtrooms at the Lusignan Prison to conduct virtual court hearings to minimise the spread

of the deadly COVID-19 and to ensure that accused

announced that a further $250 million has been allocated for the training of prosecutors, among other things.

This will see the University of Guyana’s Prosecutorial Programme commencing this year with 25 persons who hold undergraduate law degrees.

The programme is expected to last for 13 weeks and will increase the number of trained prosecutors.

The programme is titled “Advocacy and Evidence for Summary Courts Prosecutors” and falls under the Support for the Criminal Justice System (SCJS) Programme which

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

tive sentencing in the justice system.

A recent report by

The recently constructed Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrates’ Court

persons are afforded a trial within a reasonable time as guaranteed under the Constitution of Guyana.

Similar facilities will be implemented soon at the New Amsterdam, Mazaruni, and Camp Street prisons. Moreover, Dr Singh

is funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB). Completion of the programme will result in the award of a “Summary Courts’ Prosecutors Certificate”.

In addition, monies have also been set aside this year for judicial policies aimed at reducing over-reliance on imprisonment. The policies are being developed to increase the use of alterna-

the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) flagged Guyana for its over-reliance on custodial sentences particularly for persons charged with non-violent and petty offences. The report highlighted that this has been contributing to the country’s increasing prison population.

To complement these initiatives, a Management

Information System for the Legal Affairs Ministry, Human Services Ministry (Probation Department), the Police Force, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will become operational this year to ensure a coordinated approach to effectively managing cases.

Following a November 2021 fire that ripped through the structure which houses the DPP’s office, DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, renewed her calls for the digitisation of records.

“It is something I have been asking for, for years now, to digitise the system. This shows the wisdom in having a digitised system,” she had told reporters.

The fire saw staff at the office scrambling to save thousands of paper-based records. Meanwhile, the Finance Minister has assured that the Government will continue to support the implementation of reforms to enhance and modernise the Judiciary, while at the same time maintaining the highest respect for its constitutional independence.

GPF needs more psychologists, counsellors Police intercept more

I

n a recent episode of the “Police and You”, Guyana Police Force (GPF) Psychologist, Aliyah Cort shared that she believes that there is a need for more psychologists and counsellors within the Force.

She said that there is a need for “counsellors, there is need for persons to come and work along with the Force.”

Cort was appointed to the position of Psychologist by the GPF back in 2021, becoming the first person to take on the role.

Since her appointment, Cort has been making major steps in creating a healthy, comfortable environment, not only within the Force but within Guyana as a whole.

In the sit-down interview, she stated that she is dedicated to helping the people of Guyana, expressing how grateful she is that she was appointed to the position.

Therapist/counsellor Aliyah Cort

“I want to impart that knowledge into as many persons as I can. I want to help as much people as I can. I’m not taking this knowledge and going to another country and delivering that message there,” she said.

She said that currently, the GPF is working on establishing the department

to employ more psychologists into the Force so that Police officers can get access to mental health services.

Cort alluded to how vital it is for men and women of the Force to have a healthy mental state so they can carry out their duties.

In September of last year, Cort coordinated a three-day psychology seminar along with Sergeant Timmerman in Region Three at Regional Headquarters, Leonora Police Station.

The courses at the seminar covered Empathy, Psychosocial Analysis, Mental Well-Being, Suicide and Emotional Intelligence.

In that same month, Cort once again coordinated a three days training session with ranks from Regional Division 4 C. The training session was interactive. Various psychosocial skills were taught to the ranks that will assist them in doing their jobs more efficiently and effectively.

than 5kg ganja in minibus

O

ne man has been taken into custody following the discovery of a large amount of ganja in a minibus during a roadblock exercise on the Weldaad Public Road, West Coast Berbice, on Monday last.

Based on reports received, on the day in question, minibus BSS 4302, with a total of 12 passengers, including the driver, was stopped at a roadblock and searched. In the trunk of the minibus, a black suitcase was found to be carrying two bulky parcels wrapped in transparent plastic, containing a quantity of cannabis.

Questioned about the said suitcase, the driver pointed out a male passenger, who admitted own-

The ganja that was found in the minibus

ership of the ganja. The suspect was arrested and taken to the Weldaad Police Station along with the cannabis, where it was weighed

in his presence and amounted to 5,444 grams.

This passenger remains in custody as investigations continue.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

Regional

Working with US, Guatemala Colombia’s top court orders Government to protect ex-FARC rebels detains 10 people in raids on migrant smugglers

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uatemalan authorities working with the US Homeland Security agency on Friday arrested 10 people in raids against a migrant smuggling group linked to the massacre of 19 people in Mexico last year, Guatemalan officials said.

Guatemala’s Public Prosecutor’s Office said 19 raids were being carried out in the western town of Comitancillo to dismantle the human smuggling network that took the Guatemalan migrants to Mexico.

“An operation is underway,” said Juan Luis Pantaleon, spokesperson for the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

A national police spokesperson said eight men and two women had been detained so far.

Sixteen of the 19 people killed in the gruesome massacre in the northeastern Mexican state of Tamaulipas state in January 2021 were Guatemalans.

Their bodies, some badly charred and with gunshot wounds, were found along a migrant smuggling

route in a remote area of Tamaulipas.

Most of the Guatemalans killed were from Comitancillo, in the San Marcos department, west of Guatemala City. Investigations into the murders pointed to the involvement of 12 members of the Mexican police.

Every year, thousands of Central Americans and Mexicans flee poverty and violence to seek a better life in the United States. Many fall victim to crime on the perilous journey. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Peru oil spill: Judge bars Repsol executives from leaving country

President Ivan Duque has unsuccessfully tried to change the conditions of the peace accord signed by his predecessor Juan Manuel Santos

C

olombia’s top court has ordered the Government to protect disarmed former leftwing rebel fighters after a spate of murders.

In a judgement made public on Friday, the Constitutional Court said the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebels’ “fundamental rights to life, personal integrity and peace … were ignored” by the Colombian state.

Some 300 former FARC

fighters that signed a 2016 peace deal with the Government, bringing an end to their half-century-old conflict with the State, have been murdered.

Given the “large number of signatories to the final peace deal that have been victims of murder and the low level of implementation of rules regarding the security guarantees for those disarmed, the court has also decided to declare a ‘state of unconstitutional things’”, Judge Cristina Pardo said in

an online presentation of the judgement.

The state of unconstitutional things is a mechanism that can be activated in the case of serious violations of fundamental rights and the proven inability of the state to protect victims.

The court ordered the Government to adopt the necessary measures to guarantee the security of former rebels, as stipulated in the peace accord. The judgement narrowly passed by five votes to four.

The decision includes the creation of a special chamber within the court to verify that the Government is complying with the order.

The judgement also asks the National Protection Unit, in charge of protecting people at risk, to reassess the risk the former fighters face and to take measures to prevent them from being killed.

The Government’s top post-conflict presidential adviser Emilio Archila criticised the decision but committed to respecting it.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Argentina strikes breakthrough deal with IMF in $45 bln debt talks

A Workers clean up a beach after Peruvian authorities said some 11,900 barrels of oil - double an initial estimate - spilled into the sea off the coast of Peru this month following a volcanic eruption off Tonga [Pilar Olivares/Reuters]

A

Judge in Peru has barred four executives from Spanish energy giant Repsol from leaving the country for 18 months, as authorities investigate a gigantic oil spill that saw approximately 11,900 barrels of oil leak into the ocean – almost double an initial estimate.

The Peruvian Government has described the January 15 spill, which Repsol said was caused by huge waves caused by a volcanic eruption on Tonga, as the largest “ecological disaster” in recent years.

The spill took place when the Mare Doricum,

an Italian-flagged tanker, was unloading oil at the La Pampilla refinery, just off Peru’s coast about 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of the capital, Lima. Repsol has said Peruvian authorities did not provide a tsunami warning.

Judge Romualdo Aguedo on Friday granted the prosecution’s request to prevent the four executives, including Repsol Peru’s Spanish president, Jaime FernandezCuesta Luca de Tena, from leaving the country.

Aguedo imposed the ban after considering there was a “potential risk” that the four would leave Peru.

Lawyers for the Repsol exec-

utives did not appeal the decision and said on Thursday they will collaborate with the investigation.

Prosecutors say ocean currents have carried crude 140km (86 miles) north of the refinery, provoking the death of untold numbers of fish and sea birds. The spill also has prevented hundreds of traditional artisanal fishermen from working.

The Mare Doricum is anchored with a ban on setting sail, while hundreds of workers and volunteers have been desperately trying to clean up about 20 affected beaches. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Costa Rican President vetoes legalisation of medicinal marijuana

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osta Rican President Carlos Alvarado vetoed on Thursday the legalisation of medicinal marijuana, citing health and security grounds, and sought changes to a bill backed by Congress last year before he will approve it.

Costa Rica’s Congress

had approved the production and processing of cannabis for medicinal purposes in October.

On Twitter, Alvarado said he supported the medicinal use of cannabis but the legislation needed changes to limit individual cultivation and consumption.

“I trust that they will be accepted and the law will be in force soon,” said Alvarado, whose term ends in May. The proposal is set to go back to another vote in Congress, which is dominated by opposition parties.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

rgentina has struck an agreement in principle with the International Monetary Fund over a new US$44.5 billion standby deal, both sides said on Friday, a major breakthrough in tense talks to restructure loans the country cannot repay.

The South American country has been locked in talks for over a year with the IMF over a new programme to revamp debt outstanding from a failed US$57 billion loan deal from 2018, the fund’s largest ever. It faced a US$700 million payment due Friday.

“We had an unpayable

debt, which left us without a present and a future.

Now we have a reasonable agreement that will allow us to grow and meet our obligations through growth,” President Alberto Fernandez said in an address to the nation.

He said the agreement would not limit Argentina’s economic plans or spending, which had been something of a red line for a country emerging from years of recession and the harsh impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The IMF said in a statement that its staff had reached an “understand-

ing” with the Government over key policies that would underpin the final deal, including the path toward fiscal consolidation, which had been a key sticking point in the talks.

The deal would allow for spending increases on infrastructure, science and technology, and would protect targeted social programmes, the IMF said, while energy subsidies would be reduced “in a progressive manner”.

The two sides will continue their work in the coming weeks towards reaching a staff-level agreement, the IMF added. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US returns 40 migrants to Cuba after intercepting two vessels

T

he US Coast Guard on Friday said it has returned 40 people to Cuba after intercepting two vessels near Florida while two people were being investigated for human smuggling.

Increasing numbers of migrants are trying their luck at sea amid growing economic problems in Caribbean nations.

The vessels were spotted near the Florida Keys on Sunday and on Tuesday. Two suspected smugglers were transferred to Homeland Security Investigations, a Coast Guard statement said.

“People illegally entering the US using smugglers put their lives in the hands of criminals,” said Coast Guard

Lieutenant Commander Mark Cobb. “Migrant smugglers are ruthless criminals who only care about profit.”

US sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reduced international tourism, have hurt Cuba’s economy. The Coast Guard said that its crews have interdicted 690 Cubans since Oct 1, compared with 838 in the 12 months ending on Sept 30.

Haitian boat migration is on the rise due to an economic downturn and a spike in gang-related kidnappings that have worsened since the July assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

The Coast Guard on Thursday said it had intercepted a sailing vessel carry-

ing 191 Haitians.

It also called off its search for 34 people who disappeared after a boat carrying 40 people capsized off Florida’s coast. US authorities have not released the nationalities of those on board.

Five bodies were recovered, and there was one survivor. Colombia’s Foreign Ministry on Friday said it would assist that survivor, a citizen identified as Juan Montoya, who was transferred to a Miami hospital in the custody of immigration authorities. His sister, Maria Montoya, died in the accident.

The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil hits 7-year peak on political risks, supply crunch

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il prices rose to a more than seven-year peak on Friday and recorded their sixth straight weekly gain as geopolitical turmoil exacerbated concerns over tight energy supply.

On a weekly basis, the benchmark contracts notched their longest run of gains since October.

Brent futures rose 69 cents to settle at US$90.03 a barrel, after hitting US$91.70, the highest level since October 2014.

US crude closed 21 cents higher at US$86.82 per barrel, after hitting a seven-year peak of US$88.84 during the session.

Tight oil supplies pushed the six-month market structure for Brent into steep backwardation of US$6.92 a barrel, the widest since 2013. Backwardation exists when contracts for near-term delivery of oil are priced higher than those for later months, encouraging traders to release oil from storage to sell it promptly.

Major producers in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies led by Russia, collectively known as OPEC+, have struggled to raise their production levels. The market also reacted to attacks on United Arab Emirates by Yemen’s Houthi group.

Prices drew support from concerns over a possible military conflict in Ukraine that could disrupt energy markets, especially natural gas supply to Europe.

“So far there has been no supply disruptions in Eastern Europe, so guess the risk premium related to those tensions is not so high,” UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said. He added, “Some investors still prefer to hold their exposure.”

US crude futures did briefly turn negative earlier in the session.

Matt Smith, director of commodity research at ClipperData, said relatively softer US rhetoric on Russia may have led to “some of the air being let out of the tires on this crude rally.”

“But the bigger picture here is that with all the geopolitical uncertainty and the supply side concerns, prices are continuing to just get swept along,” he said.

At its Feb 2 meeting, OPEC+ is likely to stick with a planned rise in its oil output target for March, several OPEC+ sources told Reuters.

“This is because some key producers in the OPEC+ group, including Russia, continue to struggle to meet their output quotas,” said Marshall Steeves, energy markets analyst at IHS Markit.

US production has struggled its way higher even as the rig count has been rising, Steeves said, adding that output could be higher this year.

On the demand side, crude imports in China, the world’s biggest importer of the commodity, could rebound by as much as 7 per cent this year, analysts and oil company officials said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine accuses US of hurting economy by stoking panic over war

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krainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy criticised the US, saying it was damaging his country’s economy by unduly stoking panic that Russia may be planning an invasion.

Russia has massed over 100,000 troops, along with tanks and heavy weaponry, along the border, while denying any plans for an invasion. Zelenskiy said Friday that satellite images alone were insufficient to assess the extent of the military buildup and the situation hasn’t escalated.

“We are grateful to the US for the support for our independence and territorial integrity,” Zelenskiy told foreign media on Friday in the capital Kyiv. “But I am the President of Ukraine, I am here and I know more details and I have deeper

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the country needs as much as US$5 billion to stabilise its economy [Bloomberg]

knowledge than any other President.”

His remarks come amid increasingly strong US warnings about Russia’s plans and continuing resistance to such predictions by Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials determined to calm their nation

and markets.

The issue arose again on Thursday night, when US President Joe Biden held a call with Zelenskiy. Biden told Zelenskiy “that there is a distinct possibility that the Russians could invade Ukraine in February,” according to US National

Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne.

“I am not saying escalation could not happen,” Zelenskiy said Friday. “We have been saying this for eight years already and part of our territories are already occupied.”

Zelenskiy has criticised Biden before, after the US President said earlier this month he expects Russia to “move in” on its neighbor and that the US and its allies had yet to agree on how to hold Moscow accountable over “a minor incursion.”

“We want to remind the great powers that there are no minor incursions and small nations. Just as there are no minor casualties and little grief from the loss of loved ones,” Zelenskiy hit back in a tweet. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Fujimino shooting: Japanese doctor killed in rare gun violence

P

olice have arrested a man in Japan after an 11-hour siege who allegedly attacked three medical workers visiting his home and fatally shot one of them.

Hiroshi Watanabe, 66, is facing murder charges following Thursday’s incident in Fujimino, just north of Tokyo.

A well-known doctor, Junichi Suzuki, 44, was shot and held as a hostage, Police said. He later died in hospital.

Gun crime of this severity is rare in Japan where firearms are heavily regulated.

It’s unknown what led to the violence or how the suspect had a gun, reported as a hunting gun by some outlets.

Police have launched an investigation.

Japanese media reported that the medical team had

Police and other responders outside the suspect’s home on Friday

been in-house carers for the suspect’s mother, who had died recently.

The group had been making a compassionate visit to the man’s home on Thursday night at his request, The Japan Times reported.

Police were first alerted about 21:00 local time (12:00 GMT) after neighbours reported gunshots and found one man bleeding from chest and stomach wounds outside the house.

The 41-year-old man, a

nurse, was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition, Police said.

Another man, 32, had managed to flee the house to a Police station, media reported.

Police advanced on the home that night, the reports said.

Officers spoke with the gunman through the night via phone but he made no requests or demands, local media reported.

On Friday morning, with the siege still underway, authorities evacuated about 110 residents in the neighbourhood and closed nearby schools.

Police stormed the home a short while later where they found Suzuki and arrested the suspect. (Excerpt from BBC News)

W African bloc suspends Burkina Faso COVID: New Omicron Ten people injured in after military coup Pittsburgh bridge collapse subvariant ‘appears to

W

est Africa’s main regional bloc on Friday suspended Burkina Faso from its governing bodies over this week’s military coup but stopped short of imposing any sanctions, its member states said in a statement.

Burkina Faso’s army overthrew President Roch Kabore on Monday, presenting the latest test to the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has struggled to mount an effective response to a series of coups in the region over the past 18 months.

A delegation of ECOWAS defence chiefs will travel to Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou today, followed by a ministerial mission a few days later, the statement said.

Heads of ECOWAS member states will reconvene for another summit in Ghana’s capital Accra on Feb 3 to dis-

cuss the findings of the two delegations.

ECOWAS and its international allies have condemned the coup in Burkina Faso, which they fear could further destabilise a country beset

by Islamist violence, but find themselves with limited leverage.

The bloc’s decision to not sanction Burkina Faso contrasted with its response to coups in Mali and Burkina Faso, with which ECOWAS member states closed borders and imposed some economic sanctions after military takeovers in May and September.

ECOWAS sanctions on the juntas in Mali and Guinea have done little to sway their behaviour, however, nor did they deter the latest coup.

The bloc could still choose to sanction Burkina Faso when members reconvene next week. (Excerpt from Reuters)

A

bridge in the US city of Pittsburgh has collapsed with six vehicles, including a bus, on it at the time.

No deaths have been reported.

Officials said 10 people sustained minor injuries, three of whom were taken to hospital.

The snow-covered Forbes Avenue Bridge gave way on Friday morning, sometime after 06:00 local time (11:00 GMT).

The collapse happened just hours before President Joe Biden visited the area to talk about infrastructure.

Fire Chief Darryl Jones said first responders used ropes longer than 100 feet and formed human chains to pull victims to safety. Search dogs and drones were also spotted on the scene.

A nearby resident told the KDKA-TV local news channel that the incident “sounded like a huge snow plow... pushing along the surface with no snow”.

Residents have been asked to avoid the area after public safety officials confirmed they had to shut off a leaking gas line that goes under the bridge. A strong smell of natural gas is being reported in the area.

It remains unclear what caused the city-owned bridge to cave in. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey said it had been inspected as recently as September, but a 2019 assessment revealed its structure was deteriorating.

The steel bridge, built in 1970, is a common route for motorists into downtown Pittsburgh.

Federal transportation officials say about 45,000 US bridges - including more than 3000 in Pennsylvania - are in poor condition.

In November, President Biden signed legislation into law that includes US$110 billion (£82 billion) to repair and rebuild roads and bridges. (Excerpt from BBC News)

have growth advantage’

T

he BA.2 subtype of the Omicron coronavirus variant appears to have a substantial growth advantage over the currently predominant BA.1 type, the United Kingdom’s Health Security Agency has said.

UKHSA said on Friday there was an increased growth rate of BA.2 compared with BA.1 in all regions of England where there were enough cases to compare them, and that “the apparent growth advantage is currently substantial”.

“We now know that BA.2 has an increased growth rate which can be seen in all regions in England,” said Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor for the UKHSA. The agency said there was no data on the severity of BA.2 compared with BA.1, but reiterated that a preliminary assessment did not find a difference in vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic disease between the two Omicron subtypes.

The rapid spread of BA.1 fuelled an Omicron wave which pushed daily infections to record highs in the UK in December, displacing the previously dominant Delta variant.

However, hospitalisations did not rise at the same rate, owing to population immunity through vaccination and previous infection, as well as Omicron’s lower severity. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Don’t worry about the past. Focus on what you want and don’t lose sight of your goal. Reach out to someone who can help you get an introduction to or meeting with an influential person.

(March 21-April 19) Take responsibility and make updates that keep you current. The changes you implement will show your tenacity and ability to get things done.

Celebrate your success with a loved one.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

Stick to what you know and do well.

Don’t feel left out if someone decides to take a different route. A joint venture or shared expenses will work better for the other person than for you.

(May 21-June 20) Unusual individuals and pastimes will draw you. Share your thoughts, and the feedback you receive will help you find a great way to get what you want at a price you can afford.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

You’ll limit your ability to have a say in the changes around you if you are difficult or unwilling to participate. Keep the peace and maintain control by being resourceful and offering ideas.

(July 23-Aug. 22) You’re on a roll, so keep the momentum flowing. Socializing with someone you admire will lead to an exciting partnership. Update your look, and you’ll receive compliments.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Slow down, observe and don’t count on someone who is already too busy to take on more. Arguing won’t save you time or money. Stand on your own and live up to your promises.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Let your imagination take you on a journey. Explore your options and figure out what you can do to prepare. Doing research and connecting with people who can help you will give you hope.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Put more thought into your words and be mindful of what others say. Don’t let anyone invade your privacy or play mind games with you. Stick to the truth and be skeptical of extravagant people.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

Pick up the pace and be productive.

Make positive changes. Invite people over who are eager to participate in the transformation you wish to make, and you’ll have fun and get things done faster.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Take notes, rely on the experience you gain and protect yourself from anyone trying to change or redirect you.

Follow your heart and take responsibility for your happiness.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) You’ve got what it takes to succeed.

Trust and believe in your skills and attributes, and flaunt what you have to offer. Personal improvements will build confidence and attract attention.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

21

Women’s match, WI vs SA: 1st ODI of 4-match series

“Deandra Dottin-Hayley Matthews show” go in vain as rain ends series opener in stalemate Deandra Dottin remained unbeaten on 150

Hayley Matthews supported Dottin with a well-played half century

D

eandra Dottin hit a magnificent ton to post her career-best score in ODIs, and shared a record-breaking partnership with Hayley Matthews to help West Indies post a daunting total in the first ODI of the fourmatch series at the Wanderers ground in Johannesburg, South Africa.

With multiple rain delays, South Africa eventually had a narrow escape, with the match being called off when the Proteas were reeling at 87 for five in 17.5 overs as they chased 204 runs from 29 overs in a DLS-revised target.

Put in to bat, West Indies didn’t have the greatest of starts, as they lost Rashada Williams for just one run, with Shabnim Ismail accounting for her. Only 12 runs came from the first seven overs. Dottin finally broke the shackles with two boundaries off Ayabonga Khaka in the eighth over, and backed it up with another four in the next over.

But Khaka came back with the wicket of Kycia Knight in her second over, leaving West Indies struggling at 27 for two. However, Dottin was in no mood to stop, as she added two more fours off Khaka.

Ismail, who bowled an enviable five-over spell that read 5-2-3-1, went for two boundaries in her sixth over, and it was looking like Dottin and Stafanie Taylor would take West Indies to safety.

In the 18th over, disaster struck for West Indies as Taylor was hit on the wrist when a hard drive from Dottin came back at her. The West Indies skipper retired hurt, and didn’t return to bat in the innings as the medical staff decided to rest her for the remainder of the match.

That brought Matthews to the crease, and she and Dottin built on their recent form in the format with some explosive cricket. Not wasting any time, Matthews started her knock with two boundaries off the first three balls she faced from Chloe Tryon.

Once she reached her fifty from 68 balls, Dottin cut loose, smashing Khaka for a six, before doubling down against Nonkululeko Mlaba. Sune Luus kept it tight from the other end with her leg spin, but other bowlers came in for severe punishment from both these batters. One more six and a few singles later, Dottin brought up her third ODI century off 113 balls, with 11 fours and four maximums to her name.

The pair continued the assault on the South Africa at-

tack, which lacked the presence of Marizanne Kapp, and whose bowlers were either too full or erred on both sides of the wicket, providing the batters with WEST INDIES WOMEN INNINGS SOUTH AFRICA WOMEN width. A rain break in between didn’t break their mo(50 OVERS MAXIMUM) INNINGS (TARGET: 204 mentum, as they went past the 100-run stand. Once Deandra Dottin not out 150 RUNS FROM 29 OVERS) they returned, Matthews took only 59 balls to reach Rashada Williams lbw b Ismail 1 Laura Wolvaardt b Connell 6 her eighth fifty in the format.

Kycia Knight † c †Jafta b Khaka 1 Tazmin Brits c Nation South Africa finally got a breakthrough in the Stafanie Taylor (c) retired hurt 12 b Matthews 32 44th over when Matthews was caught on the boundHayley Matthews c Tryon Lara Goodall b Matthews 14 ary by Tryon off Klaas, to end the stand on 153 runs. b Klaas 51 Sune Luus (c) lbw b Ramharack 6 But by then she and Dottin had made the highest Shemaine Campbelle not out 7 Mignon du Preez not out 19 third-wicket partnership in their name, going past Extras (w 12) 12 Chloe Tryon c Matthews b Kyshona Knight and Taylor who scored 142 runs TOTAL (45.3 Ov, RR: 5.14) 234/3 Ramharack 6 against Pakistan last year.

Did not bat: Chedean Nation, Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 1) 4 Despite losing her partner, Dottin kept going, Shamilia Connell, Chinelle Henry, TOTAL (17.4 Ov, RR: 4.92) 87/5 and added more runs to her career-best score as she Shakera Selman, Karishma Did not bat: Sinalo Jafta †, reached her maiden 150 in the process. She found just Ramharack Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, enough time to loft one through the offside before the Fall of wickets: Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko rain arrived yet again, ending West Indies innings on 1-10 (Rashada Williams, 4.1 ov), Mlaba 234 for three in the 46th over.

2-27 (Kycia Knight, 9.5 ov), Fall of wickets: For South Africa, Ismail returned with impressive 3-213 (Hayley Matthews, 43.1 ov) 1-12 (Laura Wolvaardt, 2.1 ov), figures of 24 for one from her eight overs, while Luus 2-41 (Lara Goodall, 8.3 ov), was frugal as well, giving away only 29 runs as she BOWLING O M R W 3-60 (Tazmin Brits, 12.2 ov), completed her ten-over spell.

Shabnim Ismail 8 2 24 1 4-63 (Sune Luus, 13.4 ov), After a long rain delay, South Africa came out to Masabata Klaas 9.3 0 59 1 5-87 (Chloe Tryon, 17.4 ov) chase a revised target of 204 runs from 29 overs, with Ayabonga Khaka 8 1 55 1 DLS coming into play. Although they started the first Nonkululeko Mlaba 7 2 44 0 BOWLING O M RW over well, harvesting nine runs therein, they soon Sune Luus 10 1 29 0 Shamilia Connell 4 1 12 1 found themselves in trouble, losing the big wicket of Chloe Tryon 3 0 23 0 Shakera Selman 3 0 18 0 Laura Wolvaardt. Shamilia Connell had got one to Chinelle Henry 1 0 9 0 come back to castle the right-hander.

Hayley Matthews 5 0 27 2 Meanwhile, Brits found some boundaries, with Karishma Ramharack 4.4 0 18 2 Lara Goodall struggling at the other end. Brits hit Shakera Selman for a huge six over long-on, before Goodall smashed a couple of boundaries off Chinelle ter 14 overs when they lost Luus as well.

Henry to finally move the innings.

From there, Mignon du Preez tried to play some aggresHowever, the introduction of Matthews brought imme- sive shots, and was batting on 19 off just 13 balls when diate reward for the visitors, with Goodall playing across a Tryon also fell cheaply, leaving South Africa at 87 for five in straight one only to lose her stumps. The off-spinning all- 17.5 overs. At the same time, rainfall became strong enough rounder’s day got better when she sent Brits back to the pa- for the umpires to take the players off the field with the DLS vilion for 33, with Chedean Nation taking a fumbling catch par score standing at 127 runs. (Women’s CricZone) at the boundary. South Africa were reeling at 66 for four af-

SCOREBOARD

West Indies Under-19s suffer 83-run loss to UAE Under-19s in Plate semi-final SCOREBOARD – will now play 11th-place playoff

T

he West Indies Under-19s will now compete in the 11th-place playoff at the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup, after suffering an embarrassing 83-run loss to UAE Under-19s in their Plate semi-final in Port of Spain on Friday.

UAE won the toss and elected to bat first, reaching 224-9 off their 50 overs, thanks to half-centuries from Aayan Khan (93) and Shival Bawa (51).

Shiva Sankar led the way for the Windies bowlers with 3-31 off nine overs, while Nathan Edward and Matthew Nandu each took two wickets. Jash Giyanani and Dhruv Parashar then combined to take seven wickets between them, in the process restricting the West Indies to a modest 142 all out in reply.

Nathan Edward (51), Kevin Wickham (22) and Isai Thorne (17) were the only batsmen to score in double digits as Giyanani returned figures of 3-21 off 10 overs and Parashar returned figures of 4-30 off nine overs.

Nandu is bowled

The West Indies will now play the loser of the Plate semi-final between Ireland and Zimbabwe in the 11th place playoff, while the UAE will play the winner in the ninth-place playoff.

(Sportsmax)

Aayan Afzal Khan top-scored with 93

22

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ANSA McAL, Hennessy adopt Burnham Hardcourt – Ramson Jr congratulates sponsorship of companies for taking initiative

A portion of the work done on the court

The players participated in an exhibition match

O

n Thursday, January 27, 2022, many witnessed the adoption of the legendary Burnham Hardcourt by Ansa McAL, official distributor of the Hennessy brand of cognac.

This long-term adoption saw implementation of new lights, refurbishing of the officials’ tables, players’ areas and patrons’ stand; painting of the court’s tarmac, and establishment of a mobile VIP stand.

Sharing his review on the iconic court, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson Jr, said he ‘grew up’ on the Burnham Hardcourt in his younger days, and recognises the role that corporate Guyana and corporate sponsorship plays, as they are stepping up their involvement.

“Sometime around November and October, I made a public call in Leonora, at the Kashif and Shangai Super-16, that corporate Guyana step up their involvement in sponsorship of sports and culture and the involvement of activities for young people. We all want the same thing: we want development, prosperity, the best for ourselves, the best for our families, the best for our communities, and the best for our country. That can only be done in an environment of order and structure, where everyone is pulling in the same direction,” he posited.

Ramson related that the works are being put in, as he has ordered four FIBA approved, authorised and licensed hoops coming out of the Netherlands basketball hoops, the 3x3 style with clocks and everything. He noted that it amounted to a total of 8-9 million dollars, and clarified that two of the hoops are going to be installed at the National Stadium, where people can have access anytime of the day.

In addition, he iterated that the National Gymnasium has just completed the first phase of the basketball court, owing to the fact that it would be a day/night facility, which would be made accessible to all basketball players.

Ramson has said that, in the next few weeks, the basket-

National Boxing Coach heads to Linden this weekend

Guyana Basketball Association President Jermaine Slater

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Hon Charles Ramson Jr

ball leg of the Sports Academy would be launched, as it is an ongoing programme.

“12 million dollars will be set aside every year for the twelve core sports of the Sports Academy, and then there is going to be an elite programme which functions like a summer camp. Players like yourself, the above-average performers, can go into the camps, and they get paid a stipend for the time they are in the camp, where all they are doing is playing basketball and working on their game,” Ramson explained.

The Minister also made mention of the allocated $2.2B in the budget for sports. He said it would focus on investment on facilities, and will be used on sport programmes in the country. Ramson also praised the two artistes who were responsible for the artwork of the iconic court, Ransford Simon and Nigel Buttler of the Burrowes School of Art. In closing his remarks, Ramson said, “On behalf of the Government of Guyana and the people of the country, I would like to congratulate the corporate sponsorship of Ansa McAL and Hennessy, for taking the initiative of developing sports and sports development in the country. All of corporate Guyana sees this as an avenue for the development of the people of the country and the development of the country.

I want you to know that once that objective remains a line of understanding and we are focused on getting there togeth-

er, the Government of Guyana will always support the activities and interests that are connected to that investment.”

President of the Guyana Basketball Association, Jermaine Slater, relayed that the job done on the court is a Marketing Manager of beautiful piece of artwork, and it definitely brightens people Hennessey, Santiago Frusto up in the pandemic.

Slater expressed extreme grateful to Ansa McAL and Hennessey for collaborating with the GBA on the rehabilitation of the court, and said he is hopeful that the GBA would maintain a working relationship with the company going forward.

Present at the prestigious event was Santiago Frusto, Marketing Manager of Hennessey, who made it clear that, since 2021, Hennessy have been sponsoring the NBA, and thus they are here to celebrate it. He also noted that making a positive contribution to society is an essential value and core commitment to the group, and they would continue to assist to make a difference.

Frusto further clarified that the reason they decided to refurbish the hardcourt was mainly so children can come and play, and hopefully, in the future, they can be playing in the NBA. At the event where Hennessy, the world’s most prestigious cognac, was sipped responsibly, there was also a 3x3 mini basketball tournament to commemorate the occasion.

The winning team earned $100,000, medals and bragging rights.

Hennessy, the spirit of the NBA, looks forward to partnering with sport and other events in the 592.

STR Wood Inc sponsors National Online Blitz Championships

T

he Guyana Chess Federation is set to host the National Blitz Championships next month with the assistance of its sponsor, STR Wood Inc. This sponsor has donated GY$100,000 towards cash prizes and trophies. The blitz Championships

N

ational Boxing Coach Lennox Daniels will be heading to Linden this weekend for the first of a series of coaching programmes and talent spotting throughout the country. Following his visit to the mining town, Daniels will head to National Boxing Coach Lennox Region 6 (Feb 5 – 9) and then to Region 9.

According to President of the Guyana Boxing Daniels Association (GBA), Daniels’s journey is part of the sport’s local governing body’s plans to decentralise the sport and ensuring that every aspiring boxer is given a chance at developing their talents and be exposed.

Ninvalle explained that, unlike his visit to Regions 6 and 10, while in Region 9, Daniels will spend more than two days. This, Ninvalle has said, is to ensure that the National Coach is given a chance to visit as many areas as possible in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo area.

Meanwhile, Ninvalle has said the GBA, backing Daniels, would begin to intensify preparation for the March 22 – April 2 American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Championships, which are set for Guayaquil, Ecuador.

Olympian and Youth Commonwealth Games silver medallist Keevin Allicock, along with the Jackman sisters Abiola and Alesha, Mark Crawford, Richard Howard, Patrick Harvey, Travis Inverary, Jamal Eastman, Joel Williamson, Desmond Amsterdam, Colin Lewis, Julius Kesney, Quacy Abrams, Emanuel Pompey, Delroy Fordyce, Renaldo Niles, Aluko Bess and Richard Subraty, are the 18 boxers currently in training for the Elite Continental tournament.

Ninvalle has said the GBA expects Daniels to bring his unique style of coaching to the team’s preparation, “and we at the Executive level expect to see a marked difference in the way in which our fighters are prepared.”

The medalists in each of the 13-man and 12-woman weight categories in the AMBC Championships would, according to the AMBC, receive prize money – US$10,000 for first place, US$5,000 for second and US$2,500 for third place.

The best female player would be awarded $20,000, while the best junior player would receive a trophy.

The tournament is expected to attract in excess of 40 players, including current Senior Champion CM Taffin Khan, former Senior Champion FM Anthony Drayton, AFM Davion Mars, Irshad Mohamed, Loris Nathoo, Frankie Farley, Sherlyta Campayne, Justino Da Silva and Roberto Neto, ACCOMMODATIONS among others.

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RESTAURANT RENTAL The online tournament will West Bank Demerara, (Versaillesbe monitored by between Harbor Bridge and VreedFIDE arbiters John n-Hoop): - Aracari Resort – Turn Key Lee and Anand Business. Furnished and equipped.

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Taffin Khan

will be hosted online on the Tornelo.com platform on Saturday February 5th, with games beginning from 2:00pm sharp.

The open tournament features 9 rounds, Swiss format games, with a time control of 5 minutes, with one second added to the clock after each move. Interested competitors are asked to fill out the compulsory registration form on guyanachess. org on or before Thursday February 3rd. Registration fees would be waived for paid members of the GCF, while a registration fee of $2000 is required for nonmembers.

A top prize of $40,000 will be awarded to the player who earns the title of National Blitz Champion for 2022. This will be the first National Blitz Championships held since 2020. The second- and third-place winners would receive $25,000 and $15,000 respectively.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Betway T20I series...

23

West Indies aiming to silence "noise" and clinch T20I series

Jason Holder is having a good time with the ball

West Indies batting Coach Monty Desai

A

where we want them to play and where they wanted to play. And also, we were evolving as a batting group, sweeping and reverse sweeps. The best part was the partnership we stitched together.

It is good to see that, and we want that to happen even more, and that can only come

By Brandon Corlette in Barbados

fter a sensational century from Rovman Powell in the third match, West Indies lead the five-match T20I Betway series against England 2-1.

Throughout the series, the men in maroon have played some solid cricket against the world’s number one-ranked team, England.

Despite being one win away, surrounding ‘noise’ about victimisation in the camp has been a talking point. With the fourth match being played, the West Indies would be looking to win the series and silence ‘the noise’.

Speaking to the media on the eve of the match, batting coach Monty Desai has said he is delighted to see the batsmen coming to the party, but he wants to see this on a consistent basis.

“If you look at all three games, we have been in the battle throughout. Second game, we did not have the kind of result we wanted

England T20I squad: Eoin Morgan, Moeen Ali (captain), Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Liam Dawson, George Garton, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Tymal Mills, David Payne, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, James Vince, Harry Brook.

West Indies T20I squad: Kieron Pollard (capt), Nicholas Pooran (vice- captain), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Roston Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman

Rovman Powell scored a century in the last match

(and that) kept us in the battle, and we lost that game by one run.

If you look at the last game, whatever they are thinking, planning, you could see a lot of things coming out in the game,” he explained.

“For example, when you talk about expressing themselves propA confident West Indies will be looking to clinch the series today erly, you could see them playin the first half while chasing, but a number ing some good, strong shots in the areas of players (did) bring their all-round skills,

with consistency,” Desai declared.

While noting that West Indies are good at hitting sixes, Desai said the intent and awareness have been aspects of play the team has worked on, and so far, this was applied in the series. Brandon King has been inconsistent Meanwhile, England opener Tom Banton has also been Powell, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, impressed with the West Indies batting. Hayden Walsh Jr. “They’re such good strikers of the cricket First ball of the fourth T20I is set to bowl ball. I remember I was keeping last night, off from 16:00h local time at Kensington and just seeing how far they hit it, it was Oval, Bridgetown Barbados today, Saturday pretty scary, to be honest.”

January 29.

Simmons shuts down "noise" about victimisation in West Indies camp

By Brandon Corlette in Barbados

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Odean Smith

est Indies Head Coach Phil Simmons did not entertain the media on Thursday afternoon in relation to questions surrounding fast-bowling all-rounder Odean Smith. Smith, a Jamaican, played in the first T20I, and bowled one over for four runs; and in the second match, he did not bowl a single ball. In the third T20I, Smith was left out of the starting XI, and that raised a lot of eyebrows.

Asked about Smith’s role in the West Indies team, Simmons has said: “He is a bowler who bowls quick and can hit the ball out of the ground. In the games where he did not bowl, it is a situation like this: we have seven bowlers, and, unfortunately, he did not bowl. Fabian Allen did not bowl much, it is just the run of the game on the day.

“We needed a batsman to come in yesterday,

and we made that choice, of course Jason (Holder) and (Sheldon) Cottrell are your main bowlers at the top there, and Shepherd has shown with both bat and ball that he is doing well, so we wanted him to continue. That is just the situation of him (Smith) being left out,” Simmons explained.

Simmons has vowed that once he is around, there would be no victimisation. “For me, that cannot happen when I am here. You do not victimise anyone, you do not try to pull down anyone. You try to make players better persons and better cricketers afterwards. In my coaching career, you look to help the man next to you, and that is one thing I have been preaching in this team and all the teams I have dealt with. There is no such thing as victimisation once I am here, and there will be none.

“You are going down the wrong line with this. Let me explain something to you, and I am explaining it again. We need to stop this

Compliments of:

foolishness that we are going on with right through. This team, we sat down here and looked at the best team for the day. If Odean was not in the best team for the day yesterday, it is because we thought Rovman was better suited for yesterday. So, all those who want to sit out there and preach about victimisation, they need to look within themselves.

“There is no victimisation in selection in West Indies cricket, and no victimisation in this team, playing anyone. So, we need to start stepping away from that and letting the people who are pushing this head know that that is not happening here. And I am not going to answer any question on things like that,” Simmons explained.

Despite all the outside noise, West Indies are one win away from a series win against the topranked T20I team. England would be without the injured Eoin Morgan for the remaining two matches.

West Indies Head Coach Phil Simmons

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

Betway T20I series...

West Indies aiming to silence noise and clinch T20I series

Page 23

Captains Moeen Ali and Kieron Pollard

Guyana gets unanimous support for full IMMAF membership status T

he Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GYMMA) has unanimously been voted in as one of the 20 new member associations affiliated to the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) following Friday’s Annual General Meeting (AGM)/Congress of the global governing body for amateur mixed martial arts in Abu Dhabi.

Guyana was represented by Sr Sawan Jagnarain at the AGM/Congress, which was held at the Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel.

The IMMAF’s AGM/Congress featured 120 delegates at the event, which was Guyana was among 120 delegates at the IMMAF AGM/Congress in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) chaired by Densign White, the Federation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Ijaz Cave carrying the Golden Arrowhead at “What you have to realise is, in terms of The 18-month-old GYMMA, headed by GYMMA Executive Member Dr Sawan the tournament, which will conclude today in the National Federation, the job is that you’re Gavin Singh, received its conditional af- Jagnarain represented Guyana at the first Abu Dhabi. D’Anjou competed in the welter- learning in all aspects. You are learning the filiation to the IMMAF in 2021, pending IMMAF AGM/Congress in Abu Dhabi weight category, while Cave featured in the different processes that are put in place to approval of vote at the AGM. At Friday’s Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, to en- light heavyweight division. run a competition at this level, so when you AGM, White asked the 120 delegates if they sure the future of Mixed Martial Arts in This year’s championships were the larg- go back to develop the national federation, had any objections to Guyana receiving full Guyana is a success.” est in the IMMAF’s 10-year history, as over the clubs, referees, judges, the coaches; evmembership, and from the 37 eligible voters, Meanwhile, IMMAF President Kerrith 450 athletes from 57 countries gathered to erything that’s happening in Abu Dhabi, we the country was given a 34–0 nod of approval.

Brown said the Federation would be working compete for a chance to be crowned the best want the Federation to value and adapt,” Jamaica and Barbados were also given closely with its affiliates in the Caribbean, as in the world in their respective categories.

Brown said. approval, joining Trinidad and Tobago, The it pushes to have as many accredited coaches It has also been the first World The IMMAF was founded in Sweden by Bahamas and St Lucia as Caribbean counto implement a development strategy in pro- Championships since the advent of COVID-19 former athletes and presidents of the Swedish tries that are members of the IMMAF. moting amateur mixed martial arts as a safe in 2020.

MMA Federation August Wallén and George Singh noted that the GYMMA was “proud sport.

The IMMAF President had told Chronicle Sallfeldt, with support from the Ultimate of the accomplishments so far; however, we He said the Federation would also seek Sport that his Federation was more than hap- Fighting Championship (UFC). have a long journey ahead for further sucto foster a close working relationship with py with seeing Guyana present in the United The inaugural IMMAF World cess.” the respective Governments in the Region, Arab Emirates.

Championships of Amateur MMA were Singh said, “The Federation is commitdeeming it vital for the sustenance, developHe admitted that while it was not the re- held in Las Vegas in 2014 as part of UFC ted to ensuring proper strategy and planment and enhancement of the sport in the sults the Federation had wanted, the experi- International Fight Week. ning is in place for our future success. We Caribbean. ence would form part of the learning curve, Reporting by Rawle Toney in Abu can only do this together with all our stakeGuyana was the lone Caricom coun- not just for the fighters, but for the GYMMA Dhabi (compliments: GYMMA/National holders. We will be continuously working diltry represented at the IMMAF World as well.

Sports Commission) igently, together with the IMMAF and the Championships, with Corwin D’Anjou and GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.