Guyana Times - Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Over $50B spent on capital projects in hinterland by PPP/C Govt – Pres Ali

…as 6 land titles distributed to community leaders

Carbon credits sale

“We have a lot of success stories” – NTC Chair on investment projects by 243 villages

Guyana cautious of foreign agents posing as migrants

Miner dies in boat collision on Mazaruni River

Seepaul Narine re-elected as GAWU President

…willing to accept “small” contributions – Norton

Upsurge in road accidents

“It's heart-wrenching” – Pres Ali on weekend deadly accidents

…says situation deeply troubling, must be considered a national issue

Housewife arrested after caught throwing ganja over fence

Bureau of Statistics hosts 1st data science camp in Guyana PNCR solicits for funding from ordinary Guyanese

Pres Ali, former UK PM Blair to discuss Guyana’s leading role in environmental protection

Guyana cautious of foreign agents posing as migrants

President Dr Irfaan Ali has indicated that his Government is cautious of the possibility of foreign agents infiltrating the country under the guise of being migrants, but noted that systems are in place to ensure the nation’s national integrity remains protected.

The President was on Monday asked to respond to concerns of foreign agents infiltrating the country under the guise of migrants. This issue was raised some time ago by National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia. Gouveia had previously posited that: “You could understand the security dilemma we face that in the migrants could be embedded Venezuelan agents and so this is not something that we don’t appreciate, that we are look-

ing at as well as we open our arms with compassion and with humanity.”

According to President Ali, this is something the Government is actively giving its attention.

“I want to assure you that, while we are fulfilling our international obligations that those realities are very, very uppermost in terms of our priority and there is a mechanism that we are working on information and ensuring that our borders remain secure and that our national integrity is not infiltrated in any way, shape or form.”

“I won’t say that people are being screened but what I would say is that we have an active information platform, as any other country. We have to analyse internal threats, we have to analyse external

threats and that analysis is ongoing…and I believe we have enough information at our disposal to say that we are comfortable,” the President said on Monday.

There are 21,704 registered migrants in Guyana but it is estimated that there are over 30,000 living in the country. Venezuelan migrants seeking refuge in Guyana are being encouraged to present themselves to immigration authorities to get registered in order to benefit from services offered by the Government.

In Guyana, all children of migrants, legal and illegal, from Venezuela and other countries are allowed full access to be enrolled in the public school system within the host communities, and benefit from Government-funded support programmes including

school feeding programmes, school uniform vouchers, and the “Because We Care” cash grants given to all students enrolled in both public and private schools throughout Guyana to support educa-

tion-related expenses of families.

In some communities, near the border with Venezuela, Spanish interpreters have been trained to help the teachers in the

schools. In fact, for this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), papers were translated in Spanish for the 287 Spanish-speaking students who wrote the exams. (G3)

Guyanese farmers need to take advantage of opportunities within Caricom markets – Agri Minister

As the Agriculture Ministry seeks to encourage local farmers to take advantage of available opportunities which are available in the Caricom markets, Agriculture

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha reminded that farming at every level is being encouraged.

This, he said, is in addition to cultivating high-value crops.

Addressing farmers at Number Two Village and Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), on Saturday, Mustapha pointed to the fact that there is a

huge market available within Caricom for local farmers. He noted that agriculture is one of the most important activities in Guyana currently.

“When you look at the food import bill of Caricom, it is between US$6 billion to US$8 billion. All of the Heads came together and said that we have to reduce that by 25 per cent by 2025. If we are going to be successful in reducing the food import bill in Caricom, then Guyana has to be successful and that is why we are not only leading the Caribbean but we are doing a modernisation of our infrastructure

right here in Guyana,” he pointed out.

Mustapha noted that the Ministry has been working with various groups across the country by providing basic farming tools to them.

The Agriculture Minister called on all farmers to work together.

“Small scale farmers, instead of forking, and we give you things like tillers, we give seeds planting material, we give drugs. You here in Cotton Tree can enjoy the benefit but you have to come together and work as a team. We don’t want to work with individuals,” he told the farmers who had gath-

ered at Number Two Village; these included cash crops, livestock and rice farmers.

During his engagement, the farmers asked for im-

proved access to farmlands and spoke of the destruction of crops by cattle.

Small farmers also called for assistance to get their land ploughed. Some farmers noted that the quality of seeds for high-value crops available is of very poor quality.

Those farmers were promised seeds through the Agriculture Ministry while timely interventions will be made to address the other issues raised.

Region Five Chairman Vickchand Ramphal, who was also at the meeting, was instructed to engage the Police at the highest level to resolve the issue of cattle destroying crops.

Meanwhile, at Bush Lot, the issues raised by farmers were similar in addition to a request for improved drainage for farmlands.

Farmers there also explained that there is inadequate response by the Police to damage of crops by cattle. They also say cattle rustling is hampering the development of the industry.

As it relates to bringing down the operational cost for rice farmers, Mustapha noted that his Administration is looking at those farmers who have leased land from the Government and sub-letting it to farmers.

“The people who have lease for these lands are be-

ing charged $350 per acre but they are renting the land to the poor farmers for $20,000 and $30,000. We as a Government are talking about bringing down the cost of production – we are doing all that we can do; we have put zero excise tax on fuel so that the fuel price can drop. Because of the Russia-Ukraine war, we have seen an escalation in the price of fertiliser, and the Government made funds available so that we can give fertiliser to farmers. All these things the Government did so that the farmers get support so that you can produce and then you farmers are running down each other to pay higher prices to rent land. So, I have instructed the MMA Board to review all those who have large acreages of land and living overseas; we have to get the farmers who are producing in Guyana to get the land and they must only pay the price that we are charging at the scheme,” he pointed out.

Mustapha committed to working with the farmers in their respective categories and assured that the agencies within the Ministry will continue to work with them and provide the technical support necessary to improve their operations.

(G4)

Over 200 Venezuelan migrants in Region One were given humanitarian assistance last year through an initiative by First Lady Arya Ali

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha addressing farmers at Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, Aug 29 – 03:00h – 04:30h and Wednesday, Aug 30 – 04:00h

– 05:30h and 13:00h – 14:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, Aug 29 – 15:15h

– 16:45h and Wednesday, Aug 30 – 16:00h – 17:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine and thundery showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 16:34h reaching a maximum height of 2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 09:03h and 21:24h reaching minimum heights of 0.6 metre and 0.66 metre.

NTC Conference 2023

Over $50B spent on capital projects in hinterland by PPP/C Govt – Pres Ali …as

6 land titles distributed to community leaders

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been making considerable investments in hinterland communities since its return to office. One such investment is its capital expenditure in hinterland communities, which has crossed the $50 billion mark.

President Dr Irfaan Ali made these remarks at Monday’s opening ceremony of the 2023 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference. He assured the hundreds of Amerindian leaders gathered at the conference that the PPP/C Government is committed to fighting for them and their cause.

“You have at your fingertips, a Government that is responsive. A Government that is reliable. And a Government that will be here

terland communities, almost 5000 persons now are benefitting from the public assistance. That is $1 billion allocated for public assistance in

ing ceremony, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai said that the land titling project is expected to complete 45 absolute

going… together, we should shape a nation where every Amerindian person thrives, where tradition and cultures are honoured, and where a brighter future is within reach for all,” Sukhai said.

The NTC Conference is being held until September 1, 2023, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, under the theme: “Advancing Sustainable Village Development in a Low Carbon Economy”. During the conference, Toshaos and village leaders will have meetings with the country’s leaders and get the opportunity to discuss and make critical decisions regarding their livelihoods and development.

Monday also marked the commissioning of the NTC Secretariat at the National Exhibition Centre in Sophia on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). NTC Chairman and Moraikobai Toshao Derrick John referred to the occasion as a historic one.

“This will go down in history, that in the year 2023, the 28th of August, this milestone [was] achieved. And, I must say that this establishment here will give us the motivation and the drive that we have a role to play and a big responsibility,” John said.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

for you, in the good times and the bad times. We have proven that, on many occasions. When we are required to fight for you, we will fight for you.”

“And that is why, in the last three years alone, in capital expenditure, we have spent in Amerindian communities, well over $50 billion in capital expenditure. These are the facts,” President Ali said.

Another positive intervention into Amerindian communities quoted by the President, is a $1.1 billion investment for this year alone. When it comes to jobs, he referenced the over 4000 that have been created in the hinterland and the rehiring of more than 2000 Community Support Officers.

According to President Ali, the national development taking place on the coast is being mirrored in hinterland communities as over 1000 community projects are ongoing. Pensioners are also benefitting exponentially in the hinterland.

“We have spent billions of dollars in support of our pensioners. Take for instance in 2023. Close to 6000 pensioners in our Indigenous communities, in this year alone, we have allocated $2.2 billion that will go to pensioners of our communities.”

“The elderly, $2.2 billion of disposable income, directly to their pockets. But much more than this, in our hin-

2023,” the President further said.

Land titles

According to President Ali, the national development taking place is being mirrored in hinterland communities as over 1000 community projects are ongoing in the hinterland. Meanwhile, during the opening of the conference, six land titles were distributed to community leaders.

Those communities receiving their land titles were Four Miles, Region One (Barima-Waini); Capoey, Akawini, Mashabo and Wakapao in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), and Paramakatoi in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

During the open-

grants and 68 demarcations. She too reiterated her Government’s commitment to the Amerindian people and, specifically, land titling.

“Our commitment towards land rights and tenure is unwavering. Our Government is actively engaged in titling, extension of lands for villages, and the demarcation process is on-

“I’m looking forward for all Toshaos and Indigenous leaders to utilise this facility in a civilised way, but also as a centre that you will always feel at home. We have a staff that will be housed here, that will be always ready to listen to your concerns and take your recommendations.”

It was explained by Prime Minister, Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, that $127.8 million was allocated to construct the building and a further $20 million was spent this year to furnish it. As such, it is ready to be used.

(G3)

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai

President Ali (centre) along with Minister Sukhai and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, as they take a photo with the recipients of the six land titles at the NTC opening session

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Howmany more?

In the aftermath of the deadly weekend accidents which left eight persons dead, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said that the carnage on our roadways is “heart wrenching” and deeply troubling.

The weekend of carnage on the roadways that resulted in the deaths of eight persons is a deeply-troubling matter that, according to President Ali, must be looked at from a national angle and involve society as a collective. The unprecedented number of fatal road accidents within a fairly short period of time, the consequences have attracted national attention. Many families are now left trying to cope with the loss of loved ones.

Even the Head of State felt compelled to make a public statement over the dire situation, lamenting his distress. To quote the Head of State: “…there must be a strong public education programme. I asked the traffic chief to meet with the media and work out a programme with the media, through which we can build a strong public education and awareness programme, dealing with this…we also have to move to the enforcement of laws, demeriting system. Suspension of licence. We’ve already moved on the electronic ticketing…eight persons in one night. And the age group. Whole futures ahead of them. Families are wrecked, communities are wrecked. We have to hold this as a national issue… we have a collective responsibility on this issue. And we have to call a spade a spade. Parents have responsibilities too…we have to deal with this as a collective, as a country. And we have to address drinking and driving, we have to address speeding.”

As this newspaper has said before, the sudden and shocking death of someone close, especially due to an accident, can never be easy. The ensuing excruciating pain and mental trauma that are inflicted on surviving relatives can be unbearable.

In a fleeting moment, families are plunged into sadness and despair hearing the dreadful news that an accident took the life of someone dear to them. That’s the painful result and often, its real and lingering impact may be hidden from the spotlight of the media.

The recent spate of accidents even prompted some to ask the question, how many more? One interpretation from that simple question speaks to whether lessons are being learnt from accidents over time. In other words, how many more have to die before better care is taken while using the roadways?

Given what has taken place over the past few months, one could not be faulted for concluding that the results of the accidents may not have inspired more responsible behaviour.

There is uncertainty as to whether the mindsets of the regular errant drivers have been impacted, or have they learnt anything from what were obviously painful experiences of others. Judging from what continues to take place on the roadways, it seems clear that many drivers haven’t learnt or are clearly refusing to even be bothered by the harrowing fatal accidents.

On a daily basis, many drivers use the roadways in a very reckless manner thereby endangering occupants and other road users; the least, themselves. It becomes painful even to see how they manoeuvre, seemingly, without an iota of care for others.

The general public is hurting and is pleading for help.

Only recently, the Guyana Police Force launched the “Respect the Road” campaign aimed at addressing the recklessness on our roadways.

The core elements of the campaign were to brand road safety materials; launch a social media campaign along with a road safety school campaign and a road safety event campaign. However, not much has changed as the Police too battle to ease the recklessness on the roadways.

This year will go down as yet another year when Guyana experienced some of the most horrific road accidents. We support the President’s call for a public education campaign and strict enforcement of our traffic laws.

Will the PNC ever have a Martin Luther King Jr type?

Dear Editor, "Free at last. Free at last. Thank God Almighty, we are free at last." On 28th August, 1963, sixty years ago, Reverend Martin Luther King Jnr delivered his famous “I Had a Dream” speech in the Capital City of the USA, Washington DC, where a quarter of a million people gathered near the Lincoln Memorial to listen to his speech addressing jobs, equality and discrimination. President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1964. One year later, he signed the National Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Accidentally (?), on Friday 25th August, 2023, at the launch of the University of Guyana (UG) Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies, the Gladstone heirs delivered an apology for their ancestors’ involvement in slavery and indentureship. “It is with deep shame and regret that we acknowledge our ancestor’s involvement in this crime (slavery) and with heartfelt sincerity that we apologised to the descendants of the enslaved in Guyana,” said Charles Gladstone, one of the great, great, great, grandsons. The heirs donated 100,000 pounds to the University and will assist in other projects.

Incidentally, Guyana celebrated “Emancipation Day” on August 1st with a month-long event to fol-

low commemorating the abolition of slavery. On the 17th August, some 35 Afro-Guyanese groups received an average of $1.8M each for empowerment projects. This year, another $100M was allocated to support 55 groups, being part of IDPADA-G. This is in keeping with the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 68/237, proclaiming the years 2015 to 2024 to be the International Decade for People of African Descent.

Co-incidentally, August 18th commemorated the 200th anniversary for the 1823 Demerara revolt against slavery. The very sugar industry which prospered from the input of slaves brought from Africa along with indentured labourers from Africa, India and other countries, was destroyed and dismantled by the PNC Government during their two periods of governance, starting with the closing down of Leonora Estate in 1986. After pledging to make sugar workers see a good life with salary increases and keeping their jobs, being the backbone of the country, it was the PNC Government in 2015 who went against their words, broke their promises, closed 4 sugar estates and laid off some 7000 workers without compensation. On taking office in 2020, it was the PPP/C Government who resuscitated the industry again,

compensated the fired workers and started a revival programme. “We are not walking away from sugar,” the Head of State, President Dr Irfaan Ali recently promised. After the PNC Government ruined the economy and ran the country into bankruptcy during their 33 years in office (1967 – 1992 and 2015 – 2020), including 2 years illegal occupancy (having lost the NCM in 2018 and refusing to hold election until 2020), the country was depleted of foreign exchange and 92% of earned revenue went back to repay over-burdened debts. The PNC created job loses causing hundreds of thousands of the population from all ethnicities to flee the country for greener pastures overseas. This caused a severe brain drain among other things. Today, the PPP/C has created numerous opportunities and the country is currently in need of some 100,000 people to fill various vacancies. If the local market cannot supply this demand, the Government will be forced to import workers. Imagine, one Government takes away bread from children’s mouths and another creates opportunities to feed not only the nation but the Caribbean! No wonder Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley and President Irfaan Ali are locked in arms as bosom partners

supporting the ideals of reality, sincerity, prosperity and equality!

Through President’s Ali vision in his first term in office, he has implemented a “One Guyana” theme and assiduously working to eradicate all forms of discrimination which was practiced, propelled and perpetrated by the PNC Government during their past two tenures. The PPP/C Government under President Ali’s leadership has implemented so many programmes instituting cash grants to cushion the burdens of the high cost of living and discrimination manufactured, supported and encouraged by the previous Administration. At the recent Housing Expo 2023, the Government has distributed more house lots than the PNC did in their last 5 years in office. The PPP/C Government has removed most of the taxes created by the PNC specially to burden the farmers and other industrial producers.

While the PNC Government had proudly and indiscreetly fired targeted ethnic workers, the PPP/C Government has an open policy to incorporate all Guyanese, ensuring that all are treated equally, fairly and honestly. The PPP/C Government has re-hired all the Indigenous community leaders fired by the PNC and have increased their numbers.

Women’s day out: Guyana Amazon Warriors Women’s team, hosted a special meet-and-greet event between some of the Warriors players and young girls at the Marriott Hotel. The Warriors players present were Stafanie Taylor (captain), Shemaine Campbelle, Kaysia Schultz, Sheneta Grimmond, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Asmini Munisar, Djenaba Joseph, and Shabika Gajnabi. ExxonMobil Guyana is the sponsor of the team (ExxonMobil Guyana photo)

Gladstone heirs’ apology must include compensation, reparative justice

Dear Editor, I wish to take this moment to applaud His Excellency, President Dr Irfaan Ali, who has taken up the battle for reparation and justice for African slavery and Indian indentureship and the destruction of human psyche caused on both the African continent (more so the African continent) and Indian subcontinent. It is most welcome and is looked upon with great respect by all citizens of this country, inclusive of yours truly.

Slavery has always been a thing of great profit for wealthy, powerful nations. Where the strong and powerful will always prey on the peaceful and humble nations of the world, turning many of them in to slavery treated with the worst physical violence. Their labour exacted under the harshest and most dehumanising conditions. That it is inconceivable to comprehend and imagine that Nations could be over run, torn apart, leaders of those nations, for example in Africa; bought over with trinkets and some of them becoming collectors of their citizens in the form of human flesh to barter with the “white colonial peoples of Europe.” To fat -

ten and enrich Europe!

Imagine for a moment, readers, for generation after generation, the best, the most powerful, the strongest men and women, boys and girls being stolen and pulled out of their country in degradation, pain, in nakedness, in starvation, in beatings and rapes in the boats by those who thought that they were superior. Yet to this date most of Europe and the UK refuse to even apologise for the great hurt that they have done. For these reasons and others, it is most worthy to note the comments of His Excellency Dr Ali, where he stated in the media that: “The intended apology by the heirs of the colonial master John Gladstone include issues of compensation, reparative justice, and those involved to be posthumously charged for crimes against humanity.” (Guyana Times 25th August, 2023). Historical records revealed that John Gladstone was an absentee owner of plantations in Jamaica and Guyana, building on his wealth earned from the mercantile trade in India, the United States, and the West Indies. John Gladstone enslaved over 2500 persons during the colonial era. (Guyana

Will the PNC ever have a...

The Christmas bonus taken away from the military forces by the PNC Government was restored by the PPP/C Government.

The school cash grant denied by the PNC Government was re-introduced by this Government once again to bring smiles to all the thousands of Guyanese children. GOAL scholarships given out freely and generously by the PPP/C Government replace the one-sided affair when the PNC was handing out scholarships only to their kit and kin. The COVID-19, flood and Diabetes cash grants have brought much relief for Guyanese, something unheard of by the PNC.

A close analysis will prove that the very rights that Martin Luther King Jnr fought for in the USA for the Afro Americans, were trampled upon and a blind eye was turned

Times 25th August, 2023).

According to Dr Ali, the descendants of John Gladstone have already admitted that it benefitted from African enslavement and indentureship on the Demerara and other plantations in Guyana, and has offered a formal apology for the actions of their ancestors (Guyana Times 25th August, 2023).

We know of the stories of old of the countries in Europe, but we also know of all the worst of all the European colonials, King Leopold II of Belgium, who destroyed over ten million African people, behaving as if he and his Empire owned the Congo; as if the diamonds and lands of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (The Free Congo) belonged to his Empire solely. The Chopping off of limbs of the natives of the Free Congo when the required quota of rubber and ivory, set by Leopold’s Empire, could not be met, to enrich Belgium. Human beings were mauled, kidnapped, brutalised and sold in Europe, North America, and Canada, during King Leopold II of Belgium’s reign never without a sense of humanity or a care. Always the Africans being seen as a lower class of peoples, yet

their women were something special to be raped and preyed upon by the colonial masters.

As I said before, our President is one of the true leaders of the world who is taking this and making it an example in the world. But we also know that there are many Afrocentric organisations and individuals of other ethnicities, including yours truly, who over the decades have been fighting for reparative justice. Apologies is not enough, the descendants of slavery, the peoples of Africa and Guyana and the other former colonial enslavement countries, must be paid for the misery they caused on nations and peoples. Now slavery was not only specific to the Africans, the Spanish and the British enslavement of the native Indians in Guyana (the Indigenous people of Guyana) and the peoples of the Caribbean is also written in the historical records, they too must be issued with an apology and compensation for the atrocities committed against them by the colonial masters. By far the Spanish colonial masters were the most cruel and tyrannical. The historical documents of enslave-

ment in the Caribbean and South American countries records that the Spanish were herding people into a straw building and setting fire to it, burning the occupants alive. In addition, "they sent the males to the mines to dig and bring away the gold, which is an intolerable labour; but the women they made use of to manure and till the ground, which is a toil most irksome even to men of the strongest and most robust constitutions, allowing them no other food but herbage, and such kind of unsubstantial nutriment, so that the nursing women's milk was weakened and so dryed up, that the young infants lately brought forth, all perished”. What the Spanish were doing drove many natives to commit suicide. In Cuba, the ferocity and cruelties and inhumanities of the Spanish colonial masters caused two hundred indigenous people to hang themselves of their own accord; and a multitude of people perished by this kind of death" and "six thousand children and upward were murdered, because they had lost their parents who laboured in the mines (A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies

by Bartolomé de las Casas, 1542).

Las Casas of Seville, Spain took part in the conquest of Cuba and was given lands and Indians (natives) to work for him. Las Casas, being a man of the cloth, was struck by his text: “He that sacrificed of a thing wrongfully gotten, his offering are ridiculous and his gifts of unjustment are not accepted.” Tireless lobbying, Las Casas cross the Atlantic 12 times to plead the cause of the Indians (Indigenous peoples). He was successful. However, he erred by suggesting the importation of slaves from Africa (The Making of the West Indies Book 4). The enslavement of the Indians (the Indigenous peoples) by the Romans were historic. Similarly, the enslavement of Africans by the Arabs was also historic and of major proportions.

Indeed, I quite agree with His Excellency Dr Ali, that “the call for reparations is an essential response to right a historical wrong and mitigate the enduring legacy of slavery.”

Sincerely,

Roshan Khan

FROM PAGE 4

by the supermajority Afro supported PNC in Guyana. Burnham, Hoyte and Granger have all lacked the honesty, dignity and integrity of that freedom fighter. Now, Norton knows no better but to try and outclass his predecessors. The PNC’s perpetual racism, lies, deceits, skullduggery, corruption, rigging and mismanagement have incarcerated any opportunity of them being accepted by the local, regional and international communities as true representatives of right against wrong. MLK said "I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness." ...

Will the PNC ever have a type like Martin Luther King Jnr in their ranks to show a clean face and hand?

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Measures of Central Tendency

Ancestors wildest dreams

BY KINSALE DRAKE

r drunk on the sticky floor of a Denny’s texting gma Ayóó anííníshní; & crying in the same hot breath abt not knowing the right word for apology if one exists keyboard smashing resilience resilience reslienceResielance as we delete IG so we don’t have to see ppl out-sacred-ing each other Maybe we’re only sovereign in bed sometimes drowning in the dark and in the soft pools of their eyes, living off the hard tack of their thighs moving to an MCR mixtape

In this fun and easy science experiment, we’re going to determine what things will rust when left in water.

Materials:

Several small paper cups

Water

Various metal objects like paper clips, coins, nails, safety pins, tacks, staples, keys, etc.

Instructions:

Fill the cups halfway with water. Put one metal object in each cup. Check on the objects each day for 10 days and document your observations.

How it works: Items that contain iron will rust as the iron begins to corrode. The surface of a piece of iron will corrode first in the presence of oxygen and water. After enough time, the iron will com-

pletely disintegrate and turn to dust. Make this a science project: Try adding salt or sugar to the water to see if it speeds up or slows down the rusting process. Try putting the items in vinegar. Try putting the cups containing the items in the refrigerator to see if the cooler temperature speeds up or slows down the rusting process. (sciencefun.org)

We froth Ancestors’ sleep-paralysis demon caught in cold sweat and skipped therapy untangling our bodies from sheets always untangling hair out from under somewhere Fractals left in corners, under juniper berry branches Do we even remember how gma baked her pies? The cornstalks stretched higher than Holy People that yr ... & we came home buzzed on lemonade & an auntie’s laughter ...  Everyone is always talking about an ancestor that is or isn’t pleased BUT—

I saw a strawberry moon tonight rising ...  I learned the word in my language for laugh ... We found it together: Dloh dloh dloh dloh We eat it

We setting-spray it to the page Source: Poetry (March 2023)

WORD SEARCH

Carbon credits sale

“We have a lot of success stories” – NTC chair on investment projects by 243 villages

As many as 243 Amerindian communities have benefitted from the carbon credit initiative, with both President Dr Irfaan Ali and National Toshao Council chair Derrick John expressing satisfaction with the way these communities have gone about implementing their projects.

During the opening of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference on Monday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the use of allocations from carbon credits was discussed. Since last year, 243 communities have received grants from the $4.7 billion that was earmarked from Guyana’s sale of carbon credits to Hess Corporation.

According to President Dr Irfaan Ali, he is satisfied with the way the communities have been spending this money, as well as the support the Government has given. Further, he pointed out that communities formed their own plans

for spending their money.

“This is their money. They’ve earned it, they’ve opted in. And they have designed their programme of activities, what they want to invest that money in. The Council and community would have decided on that.”

“They have their programme of activities and I’m very confident, especially with the type of support we’re giving the communities, in training and capacity building, that they’ll be able to do a great job of implementing it.”

In an interview with this publication, NTC Chairman, Toshao Derrick John of Moraikobai also lauded the way the monies have been used by individual communities to improve themselves. In fact, John explained that during the conference some of these success stories will be revealed.

“As the National Toshao Council chairperson, I’m very satisfied with projects that villages have imple-

mented and invested their carbon credits in. We have a lot of success stories. As the National Toshaos Council Conference commences today, we will have a lot of success stories where villages will be able to report on the progress they’ve made so far since they’ve received funds from the carbon credits.”

“A lot of villages have invested in various activities. Some in eco-tourism. Some in transportation services, livelihoods and various other things that we

have evidence and later on this afternoon some of the Toshaos will do powerpoint presentations on some of the projects that they have completed so far,” Toshao John said.

Guyana signed a contract with Hess Corporation in December 2022 which will see the nation earning US$750 million within a ten-year period. While 85 per cent is being invested in multi-community and national priorities, 15 per cent ($4.7 billion) is allocated towards Amerindian develop-

ment.

To date, a number of villages have had their plans approved and already began implementing their projects. Some villages will use the grants to develop their tourism and agriculture sectors while others are using the money to fund projects that empower women.

The 33.7 million credits sold to Hess Corp is just 30 per cent of the carbon sink contained in Guyana’s vast forest cover. The country’s more than 18 million hect-

ares of forest is estimated to store approximately 20 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

In the meantime, the remaining 70 per cent of Guyana’s carbon credits are currently attracting interest from several markets, and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had said last month that Government is now exploring these opportunities.

A carbon credit is a tradable permit or certificate that allows the holder of the credit the right to emit a stated tonnage of carbon dioxide or an equivalent of another greenhouse gas. Countries and companies that exceed their permitted limits can purchase carbon credits from nations that have low emissions such as Guyana.

The deal with Hess came on the heels of Guyana being the first country to receive a certification of more than 33 million carbon credits by the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) on December 1, 2022. (G3)

PNCR solicits for funding from ordinary Guyanese

…willing to accept “small” contributions – Norton

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCC) will now be resorting to small contributions from ordinary citizens to finance the party’s activities.

Leader of the PNC, Aubrey Norton addressed supporters in Maryland, USA, over the weekend, where he spoke about sourcing financing for the party. According to him, taking donations from large businesses poses more vulnerabilities.

This means it will now be seeking financing from its support base, which includes locals and members of the diaspora.

“I am very much interested in us getting small contributions across so that we remove the vulnerability of that comes with relying on a few big business people; and then after you get power, they want to control everything,” Norton told supporters.

Reports are that the PNC’s recent Local Government Elections campaign was limited due to lack of funding. There were also indications that the PNC struggled with financing for its general council meeting.

This year, the PPP/C Government said it is committed to, and working on, campaigning financing laws for Guyana. This was one of the recommendations made by the recently concluded Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the March 2020 General and Regional Elections. In

fact, the CoI panel pointed to the absence of the legislation applicable to campaign financing in Guyana.

“There is a lack of transparency and accountability regarding political parties and campaign financing. Political parties have historically raised funds without any limitations regarding the source or amount of donation, and with very little obligation to disclose election expenses. There is a strong need for such legislation, as there is a perception that persons and/or corporations who give large donations stand to gain political favours,” the report had detailed.

PR team

It has been three years since the APNU/AFC coalition was ousted from Government when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) won the 2020 General Elections.

Last year, the Alliance for Change (AFC) had an-

nounced its split until the end of the year from the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). Both have been embroiled in major controversies which severely impacted their respective images.

On Local Government Election Day in June, Norton had told reporters that his party did not contest in all Local Authority Areas due to lack of funding. He said the best option was to focus on their strongholds.

“In terms of strategy, our strategy was to take our resources and focus it in the areas that we thought essentially, we had to maintain,” he had said.

Now, Norton noted that the PNC is seeking to turn around its image with a better public relations team, and bring it up to the level of the PPP. In fact, it is already in talks with one company.

“We also need assistance to get a proper PR company…We’re of the view that we need to engage a professional PR company. We will continue to do what we’re doing but we need a professional company to help us.

The PPP has always had a well-oiled PR machinery,” the Opposition Leader contended.

Back in March, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo opined that their party’s direct rival, the PNC, is a “dying” organisation. He was quoted saying, “That party, that philosophy, the racism of the PNC will lead to their demise. And now, they’re rapidly dying as an

organisation. And the next elections, not just in the Local Government, we will prove that definitively. The one in 2025.”

During the June elections, there were many crossovers from the PNC camp, to which Jagdeo contended that many more would do so by 2025, due to the inclusionary policy of the PPP.

“I know that a number of prominent APNU activists who have been with that party for a very long time have come and I have met with them right here at Freedom House. There are tons more people than you see who have come out openly, but others have come here. They speak of several things; that they don’t recog-

nise the PNC any longer… With the policy of inclusion, many more will cross,” he had said.

This, he added, will prove an advantage when the country heads to the General and Regional Elections in 2025.

“That is a huge advance from in the past and would serve us well in the national elections too.” (G12)

PNC Leader Aubrey Norton

Leaders of Amerindian communities from various regions gathered for the NTC Conference

Parika labourer arrested for cannabis possession

A46-year-old labourer of Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), has been arrested after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected cannabis.

Ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) acted on information at about 13:40h on Saturday, which led to his arrest. They were at Parika Access Road in the vicinity of the Forestry Office, where contact was made with the suspect.

The Police conducted a search and found one bulky black plastic bag in the left side pocket of his pants. When opened, the bag contained a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.

The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Parika Police Station where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 49 grams. He was placed into custody pending charges.

Bent St man slapped with cybercrime charge

Seon Clarke, 42, of Bent Street in Worthmanville, Georgetown, was arraigned on a cybercrime charge on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts.

He appeared before Magistrate Rhondell Weever, who granted him bail in the sum of $60,000 after he entered a plea of not-guilty to the charge.

It is alleged that on May 15, Clarke published electronic material comprising a woman’s personal information with the intent to make her a target of mockery and emotional anguish.

Although the Police Prosecutor had no issues with Clarke being released

on bail, he did ask that he lodged his passport with the Clerk of Court and report every two weeks to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, commencing on September 8.

The defendant is scheduled for another court appearance on September 11 for statements.

Earlier this month, a 22-year-old butcher, Lemuel Dundas of Den Amstel Village, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) appeared in court on a similar charge after he allegedly threatened to post a woman's nude photographs unless she paid him.

He is accused of using a computer system to transmit electronic data that intimidated the virtual complainant; using a computer system with the intent to extort a benefit and intentionally acquiring nude photographs and videos of the virtual complainant.

Moving on…

…or in circles

Yes…your Eyewitness won’t ask from where we’ve come, but rather, “where are we going?” If you need to be reminded about the former question, then something’s really wrong with you! For the past month –rather than focusing on the third anniversary of democratic change grudgingly accepted by the PNC – we embarked on an orgy of self-flagellation over what happened to us during slavery and indentureship!! Your Eyewitness knows that some of our own were intimately involved with “slave catching” and bound-coolie “recruiting”. But jeez!! By and large, there were mammoth forces that descended on us like Sennacherib on the fold!!

Isn’t there supposed to be “reparations time” against the folks who extracted all our labour free or for a pittance?? The Dutch and the Brits?? After all, we’d launched a movement to get those reparations decades now, haven’t we?? Surely, we’ve all read Rodney’s “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa” and applied it to Guyana – since we were directly plundered even before Africa!? “Underdeveloped” means that not only they didn’t “develop” us but actually left us worse off compared to countries that weren’t colonised! Think Japan. And then whatever they left was nationalised by Burnham and destroyed??

Dundas too was remanded to prison after denying the three charges.

The Cyber Crime Act, among other things, criminalises the capturing, storage, and transmission through a computer system of the image of a person’s genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or breast without his/her consent. If found guilty by a Magistrate, a person can be fined $3 million and jailed for three years, or by a Judge and Jury a fine of $8 million and imprisonment for five years. (G1)

But then there came the Gladstones wearing sackcloth and ashes to apologise for slavery and indentureship and remind us that we wuz wronged!! All of us!! So, finally, we’ll move on to what might lie ahead? But hold it!! Isn’t the future to a large extent determined by what came before?? Like the speed of the ball towards the boundary being determined by the force with which it was hit – say by Hetmyer – before?? Just can’t get away from the past, can we?? One fella who knew what he was talking about pronounced: “the past isn’t dead; it ain’t even past”!! So, OK…tell you what: your Eyewitness won’t DWELL on the past, but just ALLUDE to it to discern any possible causative factors!!

So, let’s cut to the chase and start with what we all know runs everything in Guyana – politics And this one’s easy – we’ve had a long, very hot summer!! And yes, Dear Reader, we do have “summers” in Guyana. And your Eyewitness ain’t even talking about the hot muggy days we’ve been having!! Haven’t you noticed all the “summer sales” and “summer holidays” and “summer clothes”?? The Emancipation narratives and the Gladstone apology are being used by Opposition wild men to preach extremism in the present!

We gotta watch out for meetings at Parade Ground –the scene of African Guyanese being executed and heads stuck on pikes in 1823. This is being analogised to the PPP’s actions in the present. Hyperbole is the stock-in-trade of rabble rousers!! And then will come the “morning after”!! A city of clerks….?

…with democratic change?

Some very smart fella once pointed out that “democracy ain’t instant coffee”. You gotta be patient!! American launched their democratic revolution since 1776 and they’re still busy straightening out kinks. And it’s not even a matter of what the Yanks are doing – it’s more about whether we want to live in a democracy or not!! If we don’t – like China, for instance – that’s fine especially since they’re doing so well!! But we can’t run with the hare and hunt with the hounds, can we??

So, we gotta accept that if we don’t win an election, we gotta “take our licks like a man” – as one Caricom PM advised and try again next time. And until then, fix what went wrong and get ready. But it seems that the “wild men” in the Opposition enjoy yapping at the Aubrey’s heels to undermine his credibility.

Meaning, they’re guaranteeing that they might all lose “corn and husk” in 2025!

…from truculence

Opposition Leader Norton’s under pressure to keep his street cred – against extremists who feel they “put him there” because of his old rep.

Trapped by the past…even though he knows the times have changed!! Let’s salute him for just declaring otherwise!!

The cannabis found on the labourer amounted to 49 grams

Seon Clarke

Lemuel Dundas

Upsurge in road accidents

– Pres Ali

weekend deadly accidents

The weekend of carnage on the roadways that resulted in the deaths of eight people over the weekend, is a deeply troubling matter that, according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, must be looked at from a national angle and involve society as a collective.

According to the President on the sidelines of an event on Monday, he is deeply troubled by the carnage on the road and in fact, had a long conversation on Sunday with acting Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, on what strategies the Police will be taking to address the accidents on the roadway.

“So, we have to look at all

the country, which will cover safety markings among other things.

“I’ve already told the Police we have to do a number of things. One, we have to launch a massive road safety campaign across the country, where you have visuals, safety markings, areas where… especially in the nights. And this

the road. And if you look, a lot of the accidents are caused by excessive speeding. And a lot of drinking and driving,” the President said.

Over the weekend, eight young persons died in three separate accidents. Four teenagers died in the wee hours of Sunday morning, when the vehicle that

of these things and put the safety measures in place. But there must be a strong public education programme. I asked the Traffic Chief to meet with the media and work out a programme with the media, through which we can build a strong public education and awareness programme, dealing with this.”

“We also have to move to the enforcement of laws, demeriting system. Suspension of licence. We’ve already moved on the electronic ticketing. In one month, we had over 5000 tickets. So, we have to look at this in a collective way. And it’s heart-wrenching. Eight persons in one night. And the age group. Whole futures ahead of them. Families are wrecked, communities are wrecked. We have to hold this as a national issue.”

The President noted that he has already instructed the Police to launch a massive road safety campaign across

is a stat I asked them for, to see how many accidents occur in the early morning hours. Might be going out and they’re sleeping away at the wheels.”

“We have a collective responsibility on this issue. And we have to call a spade a spade. Parents have responsibilities too. We have 17-yearolds and so on. We have to deal with this as a collective, as a country. And we have to address drinking and driving, we have to address speeding.”

With the development taking place across Guyana, there has been an increased presence of motor lorries on the road. According to President Ali, the accidents involving these lorries is also a concern of his.

“There are a number of accidents these days involving lorries. That’s a concern too. Our roadways are not designed for this load they’re taking off. And we have to be more cautious in our use of

17-year-old Daveanand Singh of Providence, East Bank Demerara, was driving, collided with a parked truck and concrete fence at Canal No 2, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Singh and his three companions; Amiesha Jaikaran, 19, and Daniel Tirbeni, 19, both of La Grange, WBD; Divyanie Narine, 18, of Kitty, Georgetown, died as a result of that accident.

An accident on the Unity Public Road in Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, also claimed the lives of three youths. Dead are 21-year-old motorcyclist Elisha Pellew of Unity, his pillion rider, Raymond Rose of Mahaica and Shawn Persaud, 19.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Rahul Thakoor of Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice, lost his life in an accident between two motorcyclists on the No 11 Public Road, East Berbice, on Saturday.

“It’s heart-wrenching”

on

…says situation deeply troubling, must be considered a national issue

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking to the media on Monday

Seepaul Narine re-elected as GAWU President

Seepaul Narine will be returning as the President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), after he was re-elected at the concluded Delegates’ Congress.

The 47-member General Council, consistent with the Union’s Constitution, was charged with electing the new Central Executive Committee, which comprises the Union’s officers and seven members.

Arising from the elections are Harvey Tambron as Vice President, Aslim Singh as General Secretary, Poorandatt Narine as Assistant General Secretary and Treasurer; and Rikiram Shrikishen, Hernie Parks, Julius Nurse, Bikram Singh, Taramattie Dyal, Gordon Thomas and Raywattie Persaud as members.

The elected Committee will be responsible for providing leadership and guidance between meetings of the General Council and usually meets monthly. At the same time, the elected officers are charged with the day-to-day functioning of the Union.

The General Council meeting also received greetings from the General Secretary of the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’

Associations (IUF), Sue Longley and the First Vice President of the University and Allied Workers (UAWU), Clifton Grant.

Meanwhile, Narine said he looks forward to working alongside the General Council in advancing the efforts and work of the Union. He shared the importance of collectivism among members and noted that though challenges would arise, coming together can see the Union triumphing. The Union President added that despite the successes, there is still much more to be accomplished.

During the opening of the conference last week, the

Miner dies in boat collision on Mazaruni River

GAWU President had expressed optimism with the way the economy and particularly, the agriculture sector has been going.

“It is important to acknowledge the positive developments taking place in Guyana. The country has made impressive economic progress under the Presidency of Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali and team. We admire their efforts to improve the well-being and welfare of all citizens. President Ali’s commitment to building a One Guyana nation is commendable. And the involvement of working people and their family, all of us, are crucial to this effort.”

“To propel Guyana forward, we must enhance our abilities and expertise. We are aware of measures being taken to address this issue. And we urge that all Guyanese contribute to the country’s progress, and thereafter reap its successes,” Narine said.

When the new Committee met for the first time, they pledged to continue ensuring that union members are protected and their rights safeguarded. President Irfaan Ali has also committed the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s assurance that it will listen to their concerns and act on them. (G12)

Aboat collision along the Mazaruni River on Sunday night has claimed the life of a 35-yearold miner, whose body was found hours after, on Monday.

Dead is Terrence Maxwell Calistro of Isseneru village, Middle Mazaruni River.

Guyana Police Force on Monday said the accident occurred at about 19:30h on Sunday.

Calistro was the lone occupant in the boat. The other boat was manned by 25-year-old Shane Benn, with a 38-year-old miner, Alric Da Silva, as his passenger.

Benn was at Hymarco Landing when he was requested by Da Silva to transport him to Isseneru village.

Da Silva was equipped with a torchlight, and while proceeding, he saw a boat in the distance and informed Benn of this. According to

Police, the captain failed to divert and collided with the boat driven by the now deceased man. Calistro was flung into the water upon impact.

The two men quickly turned around and made checks in the water but could not find Calistro. Benn then proceeded to the Enachu Police Station, where he reported the matter.

Police then launched search efforts, and, at about 11:00h on Monday, Calistro’s body was found lying on its back on the left

side of the river bank, clad in a red jersey, long black pants and black boots.

A Police rank examined the body and found one gaping wound to the left side of the head. The body was taken to the Isseneru Health Post, where he was pronounced dead by a medic on duty. The body will be transported to Bartica for a post-mortem examination.

The captain was arrested and is in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation. (G12)

Seepaul Narine has been reelected GAWU President

Scenes from the opening of National

Toshaos Council Conference 2023

Pres Ali, former UK PM Blair to discuss Guyana’s leading role in environmental protection

…welcomed for historic visit

President Dr Irfaan Ali welcomed former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Tony Blair, on Monday for a historic two-day visit to Guyana.

Blair, who served as Prime Minister of the UK from 1997 to 2007 is the first former or sitting British Prime Minister to visit the country.

While in London, for the coronation of King Charles III in May of 2023, President Ali and the former British Prime Minister engaged in talks and realised that they share the val-

ues of democracy, openness and equity.

President Ali then extended an invitation to the former British Prime Minister to build on their shared vision.

Blair is the Executive Chair of the not-for-profit, TBI, which empowers governments and leaders to materialise bold ideas into reality by advising on strategy, policy and delivery.

Upon his arrival in Georgetown on Monday, he met with the Head of State at State House.

On Tuesday, he is scheduled to participate in a sit-

down conversation with President Ali, which will be moderated by Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin. They will discuss global climate challenges, Guyana’s leading role in environmental protection and the importance of education and scientific research.

Blair is also expected to visit a number of infrastructural projects and mark the inauguration of the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre founded by UK politician David Lammy and his wife Nicola Green.

Construction of courthouse at Friendship

see a bright future, one that is fertile for the growth of our Judiciary” – Magistrate

The construction of a Magistrate’s Court at Friendship, East Bank of Demerara (EBD) has been hailed as a bright future for the Judiciary by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman.

On August 21, Magistrate Latchman was among several members of the magistracy and Judiciary who attended the sod-turning for the first

time Magistrates' Court at Friendship.

In her opening remark, Magistrate Latchman joyously stated, “As I look around…, I see a bright future, one that is fertile for the growth of our Judiciary.”

She also thanked the government for “this groundbreaking initiative that will allow the wheels of Justice to continue to turn efficiently and effectively as well as

allow for our Jurisprudence to flourish.”

The contract for the construction of Friendship Magistrate’s Court was awarded to Romano General Builders Inc for the sum of $390,603,985 through a public tendering process by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

This construction is scheduled for 14 months

and will end on October 8, 2024. The construction will be supervised by Precision Consultancy General Supply Engineering Services.

Similarly, on August 18, there was a sod-turning for the construction of a Magistrate’s Court at Timehri, EBD. That contract was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board to Orion Engineering Inc after a public tendering process for the sum of $299,979,015.

The design of the building and the supervision of the construction were awarded to Innovative Engineering. The construction is scheduled for a duration of 12 months, which will end on August 8, 2024.

Also in attendance at the sod-turning events were Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Justice Yonette

Cummings-Edwards; acting Chief Justice Roxane George, SC; Chief Magistrate (ag) Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall SC; and Joey Monjal, the contractor; and senior officials of the Supreme Court of Judicature.

The new Magistrate’s Courts will house courtrooms, Magistrates’ chambers, living quarters for Magistrates and clerks of court, washroom facilities, parking facilities, and perimeter fences.

Currently, similar courthouses are being constructed at Port Kaituma and Mabaruma in Region One (Barima-Waini), Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast, Parfaite Harmonie on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD) and Cove and John, East Coast Demerara

(ECD). Earlier this month, a new state-of-the-art courthouse was commissioned to the tune of $294.7 million at Vigilance, ECD.

The Judiciary has been taking steps to ensure that justice is delivered on time regardless of where citizens live by constructing new and renovating existing Magistrates’ Courts.

The Judiciary has been praised for decentralising the magistracy given the country’s geographical layout, which makes travelling and communication very challenging at times.

Recognising that the stability and strength of the justice sector are paramount to public trust and investor confidence, $6.2 billion was set aside by the Government in the 2023 National Budget to fund various works for advancing the justice sector. (G1)

President Dr Irfaan Ali, former UK Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo share a light moment at State House on Monday

“I

From L-R: Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court of Judicature, Alicia Lowenfield; Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC; and Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the sod-turning for the new Magistrate’s Court at Friendship, EBD

Bureau of Statistics hosts 1st Data Science Camp in Guyana

data cleaning and data analysis.

This Data Science Camp was not only a learning experience for the students, the Bureau said but also for the itself, since it will lend towards the tailoring of future engagements with the school-aged population. The intention is to make this an annual activity and build on the first experi -

ence, expanding to include students from schools in other regions and developing a wider curriculum.

Chief Statistician, Errol La Cruez in his address to the students posited that data is the most valuable commodity in the world. He told them that the future of human civilisation will depend heavily on how well data is used to their advan -

tage.

“It’s important that as future leaders in Guyana and in the world, you develop an understanding and you build that tool kit that is needed, that is vital for your survival in a future that is going to be even more dependent on data and statistics than it is right now,” he emphasised.

Housewife arrested after caught throwing ganja over fence

In an effort to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world, the Bureau of Statistics hosted sixteen (16) students from secondary schools across Georgetown during its first-ever Data Science Camp held from August 23 to 25, 2023.

The camp, which was hosted at the agency’s head office, introduced the students to the basics of data collection, analysis, visualisation, and interpretation while fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. The activity forms part of the efforts of the Bureau to foster an interest in data science among

the school-aged population.

During the three-day activity, the students were immersed in fun, engaging, and educational exercises and presentations focused on formulating research questions, survey design, sampling, data cleaning, analysis, visualisation, and interpretation.

The students were given the opportunity to conduct a survey among a sample of the organisation’s staff, which was focused on staff well-being in the workplace which allowed them to further develop their interpersonal skills. They were then tasked with analysing the data they collected, displaying it on various graphs and

charts, and delivering presentations with their findings. Among the students sharing their experience was Queen’s College Student, Shabaka Yisrael. “It was a very fun experience and I wish the camp would have lasted longer instead of just three days. I fully understand now the types of data and the scientific data process. I would definitely participate again,” he said.

Precious Bristol of New Campbellville Secondary School shared that her experience was quite fun and that she enjoyed making new friends and interviewing the employees. She added that she learned about

Father of 5 nabbed with over 1lb ganja remanded to prison

Richard Thompson, a father of five, who is accused of trafficking a significant amount of marijuana appeared in court on Monday and was subsequently remanded to prison.

The 36-year-old defendant of Meadow Brook Squatting Area, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Rhondell Weever at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts to answer the charge.

On August 15, it is alleged that Thompson had 730 grams (1.6lbs) of cannabis in his possession with the intention of trafficking it in Meadow Brook Squatting Area.

The accused entered a not guilty plea to the accusation.

In objecting to bail for the accused, the Police prosecutor cited the prevalence of drug trafficking, the quantity of drugs found, and the gravity of the offence.

Bail was refused and Thompson was ordered to return to court on September 25.

He faced a similar charge in 2020 when he was accused of trafficking 2098 grams of cannabis.

According to reports, on November 17, 2020, Police officers on mobile patrol and acting on information, went to an address at Meadow Brook.

When the ranks showed up, Thompson, who was at the

Richard Thompson

door, asked who they were before quickly entering the house.

The ranks forced the gate open after noticing his suspicious behaviour and went inside the building. Thompson entered a room at the back of the house carrying a large, white salt bag.

He was then spotted throwing the bag out the door and into the yard.

The bag was later retrieved and found to contain marijuana.

This publication is unaware of the legal status of

A44-year-old housewife has been placed in Police custody after she was busted with a quantity of marijuana.

Reports are that on Sunday, at about 16:00h, Police ranks acted on information and went to a house at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo. There, the woman reportedly saw the Police and threw a bulky plastic bag over her fence.

Ranks retrieved the bag, and a quantity of small parcels containing suspected cannabis were found. The suspect was told of the offence committed, cautioned, arrested and taken into Police cus -

tody. The cannabis was weighed and amounted to

22 grams. She remains in custody and is slated to be charged. (G12)

this matter.

The head of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, has already made it clear that the agency is serious about fighting the illicit drug trade in Guyana and that this country will not be used as a transhipment point for narcotics to other territories.

With the Government, through the Home Affairs Ministry providing CANU with the necessary resources to execute its mandate, the unit intends to put a dent in the drug trade.

Participants of the Data Science Camp and the Bureau's team

The ganja that was retrieved by Police

Capoey now eyes larger market as Tambaqui fish cage trial proves successful

Under the Government's cage culture fishing project, the community of Capoey has now set its eyes on a larger market after harvesting a successful first batch of Tambaqui fish. This was revealed by Councillor in charge of Tourism, Jumol Allicock during a telephone interview with this publication on Monday.

Allicock shared that the first of three batches was caught about two weeks ago and the community has successfully sold approximately 63 fish at a cost of $80,000. He explained that they received 8000 fingerlings from Brazil for the first batch, however, they were significantly small and some of them did not survive to the end of the harvest.

"We have three cages; each cage has different size or you can say a different batch. One cage has fingerlings, one cage has medium size and one cage has the big ones. The project is 98 per cent feasible; we don't have a 100 per cent survival rate, we have at least a 48 per cent survival rate.

[In] the first batch of fingerlings we got 8000 and out of 8000, just over 100 survived and was able to grow into one pound [or] a pound and a half the biggest," Allicock told <<<Guyana Times>>>.

He added that when the project first started, they

experienced challenges with the inconsistent water flow, which resulted in the cages being clogged with moss.

"The water wasn't flowing that much and the cage was getting a lot of moss and so on, so they had to be cleaning the cage like every week or every two weeks. The biggest problem was that the first batch...of fingerlings was too small and the travelling...or getting them here was a rough journey. The second and the third batch came bigger,” Allicock explained.

According to Allicock, in the future, the project will be expanded to other areas as well and eventually to larger markets out of Capoey and Guyana. He explained that the first batch was not enough to sell out of the community so they were only sold among resi-

dents.

"The first batch was not enough to sell out of the community, all were sold in the community to residents. We do have a plan to extend but not in the same area, we want to put it at Calabash area,” Allicock shared.

The cage fishing initiative was first rolled out in October last year after the Government purchased four marine cages from Brazil in an effort to boost the aquaculture sector within the country.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said last year, “We purchased four marine cages from a company in Brazil to commence the trial of our marine cage initiative. Once those cages arrive, we will begin almost immediately with the trial. It will take about six or seven weeks to assess the progress made with the tri-

al but given the research done on the project and the training that our officers received from the Chinese Government, I am very optimistic that this trial will be very successful and that we will be able to move forward and have more persons come on board.”

Mustapha further stated that two areas in Region Two had been earmarked, with three species of fish being identified for the trial.

“So, we’ve identified two areas in Region Two to do the trials. Capoey and Lake

Mainstay. We’ve also identified Tambaqui, Mullet, and Tilapia for the initial phase of the project given the demand for these species and the high prices they attract. As I mentioned before, our officers received some amount of virtual training back in June that was organised by the Chinese Embassy and we are looking to have another round of training sometime next year. When the cages arrive and are installed, we’ll have some physical training done by the supplier and then go

straight into the trials,” the Minister is quoted as saying in a release from the Agriculture Ministry. Upon assuming office, the Government announced that it was exploring the possibility of introducing cage culture given the impact climate change was having on the global fisheries sector. President Dr Irfaan Ali had said his Government is moving ahead with the rollout of a number of innovative solutions, to ensure the livelihood of fisherfolk is maintained.

Nations School of Technology aiming to address local labour shortage

Nations School of Technology recent -

ly issued twenty-three (23) certificates from City and Guilds to skilled tradesmen and women in the skills proficiency awards in basic carpentry, masonry, painting, and plumbing.

In a press release on the programme, Chief Operating Officer and Director of the School of Technology at Nations, Liam O’Toole explained that the organisation has become a registered centre for City and Guilds to offer courses that will help Guyanese attain international certification in the construction trades.

“Nations has become a registered centre for City and Guilds to offer courses that will help Guyanese attain international certification in the construction trades. We provide certification to those who have the skillset already through the Recognition

of Prior Learning (RPL) by participating in a oneto-two-day assessment of those skills while also offering courses where the skills are taught to individuals who have no experience,” O’Toole said.

It was outlined that the Nations School of Technology has partnered with Guyana Oil and

Gas Support Services Inc (GOGSSI) to implement the City and Guilds welding, fabrication, and pipework courses.

These courses also include the RPL assessment, whereby welders who have existing skillsets and hands-on experience can receive City and Guilds certification in a

two-day assessment and those without the skills can complete a multi-week training course to gain the knowledge.

O’Toole stated “We are excited to have partnered with GOGSSI as together we bring the perfect combination of practical and theoretical knowledge. GOGSSI, amongst

many others, has a need for certified welders and we are thrilled to be partnering with a fellow local Guyanese firm to help support the need for skilled Guyanese to enter the labour force.”

It was noted that graduates who received awards in welding, fabrication, and pipework will have the skillset for employment within the oil and gas, construction, and mining sectors in Guyana.

It was recently reported in the local media, that the Government is exploring the option of establishing a National Labour Committee, working under the Labour Ministry. This proposal particularly targets the labour shortage impacting the oil and gas sector; however, labour shortage has been affecting the country in the construction sector as well.

This has led to several delays in infrastructure projects as many contrac -

tors' works is stalled due to the limited number of skilled workers available to them. Recently, Foreign Affairs Minister Robert Persaud estimated that Guyana currently has a labour shortage of 100,000 people.

“It was assessed that we need, in terms of skills and persons for the various industries and sectors that are expanding, close to 100,000 more persons,” Persaud said.

He clarified that, “It wasn’t a survey done, it was an average or an estimate. So, it’s not based on [empirical data] but rather based on data projections from various sectors. It’s based on what has happened in the country in the last year and it’s based on what is needed going forward.”

Persaud identified the construction and oil and gas sectors as the ones with the highest labour demand.

School of Nations officials along with the graduates of the programme

Councillor Jumol Allicock, standing third, right, and others displaying the Tambaqui fish harvested from the first batch

The Tambaqui fish harvested in the marine cage

Canal No 2 deadly crash

4 teenagers died from multiple injuries – PME report

The four teenagers who tragically lost their lives in an accident at Canal No Two, West Bank Demerara, in the early hours of Sunday morning, all died from multiple injuries.

This was revealed on Monday after Government Pathologist, Dr Nehaul Singh performed four separate post-mortem examinations on the bodies of the

teenagers.

The PMEs were done on the bodies of Daveanand Singh, Daniel Terbeni, Divyanie Narine and Amiesha Yasoda Jaikaran at the Ezekiel Funeral Home at Best Village, West Coast Demerara.

Singh, Terbeni, Narine and Jaikaran lost their lives after the vehicle in which they were travelling crashed into a parked truck

and then into a fence along the Resource Public Road, Canal No 2 Polder, WBD.

Reports are that the accident occurred at about 01:30h on Sunday morning.

Police stated that the motor car bearing registration number, PAE 5773, was being driven by Singh at the time of the accident. It is believed that the young man was reportedly speeding and as a result,

Regional Commander visits cop shot during robbery

he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the rear of a parked lorry.

After hitting the lorry, the vehicle then crashed into a concrete fence. Two of the occupants were pronounced dead at the scene, whilst the driver and another occupant were taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where they died while receiving medical attention.

Following the horrific smash-up, the residents rushed out in their numbers to provide assistance.

One resident, Bhagwandin

Roopnarine, related that he was awakened by the loud impact and rushed out of his house.

“About three cars been done stop already… the car parked up to the wall, me see one man lay down on the ground… we tried to get out the car so we can get out the other man but it was really hard…two of them deh left at the back seat but they couldn’t help themselves… We finally get out the other man and by then we start make arrangements to tek them hospital… we lift one of

them and put he in the trunk and one ah de gal in front but the other two de done dead.” Roopnarine added that from all indications, the teenagers had just left a wedding house in the area and were speeding.

“When we hear the sound, it so hard, we think is Police and bandits shooting out, so I tell meh sista stay down but when me look out, the car de done paste up to the wall…”

He noted that soon after, the Police arrived at the scene.

Regional Commander Region No

Three, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, Deputy Superintendent R Stanley, Region No 3 Welfare

Officer Woman Assistant Superintendent D Handy and other ranks visited Corporal Collin Hall, who is presently a patient at the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

Hall was shot in the upper left thigh and robbed at Onderneeming, West Bank Demerara, at about 19:30h on Saturday while at the Wang Wang #2 Supermarket.

During the visit, Hall related the entire ordeal to Commander Pareshram and the team. Police on Monday said that Hall is in a stable condition as he recovers at the WDRH.

Reports are that the cop, who is attached to the Court Superintendent’s Office at the Leonora Police Station,

was shot while sitting outside of the supermarket.

Police stated that the 42-year-old owner of the supermarket was relieved of an undisclosed sum of cash while the Police Corporal was robbed of his jewellery, cash, and other personal belongings.

According to Police, the owner of the supermarket and his wife were standing behind the counter attending to customers when the two bandits arrived on a black XR motorcycle. Both of them were dressed in blue jeans and black hoodies with masks on their faces. They were both carrying handguns.

One of the men ran to the supermarket’s entrance, held the unarmed security guard at gunpoint, and ordered him to lie on the ground while the other remained at the front, closer to the motorcycle.

However, after holding

the guard at gunpoint, he entered the supermarket, went behind the counter, and threatened to shoot the Chinese businessman and his wife. The gunman then opened the drawers, took out an undisclosed sum of cash, which he pushed into his crotch and pockets, and quickly exited.

At the time, the Police Corporal was imbibing at the front of the supermarket. Before leaving the business place, the other armed bandit relieved the officer of his gold chain and other valuables.

It was while robbing the cop that one of the suspects discharged a round, hitting him to his upper left leg. The two suspects then escaped on the motorcycle.

Detectives processed the scene, and one .32 spent shell was recovered in the vicinity where the policeman was standing. An investigation is in progress.

Regional Commander Region No Three, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram along with other ranks visiting Corporal Collin Hall at the West Demerara Regional Hospital

Regional Haiti pastor stands by decision to protest after gang opened fire

The evangelical minister who organised a march of largely unarmed demonstrators against a heavily-armed gang controlling a suburb of the Haitian capital stood by his decision to protest in an interview with local radio on Monday.

At least seven people were killed when gang members opened fire using machine guns, according to local rights group CARDH, during a march of some hundred people on Saturday in Canaan, a northern suburb of Portau-Prince.

In videos circulated on social media, some protesters were seen carrying sticks or machetes, but many were unarmed.

"Those who died are those who went to hide in the houses," said Marcorel Zidor, known as Pastor Marco, of the Evangelical Piscine de Bethesda church.

Zidor, who spoke on Mega Radio, added that those who were shot at had

lost faith.

"Ninety-five per cent of my parishioners were being shot at, none of them got hit," he said. Zidor also declined on air an "invitation" to speak with the local prosecutor at his office.

Unverified videos on social media show people being shot at in the street, bodies lying on the ground and people who appear to be hostages saying they thought the march was peaceful and had no idea

CAF offers US$600M in counterguarantees for Brazilian exports to Argentina – Ministers

Latin America development bank CAF has offered US$600 million in assistance to counter-guarantee payments for Brazilian exports to Argentina to secure trade flows, Ministers from both countries said on Monday.

Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad and his Argentine counterpart, Sergio Massa, said the proposal still needed to be endorsed by a CAF Board meeting scheduled for September 14.

Brasilia.

The offer represents a sweeter deal for cashstrapped Argentina compared with the one initially proposed by Brazil, which involved the provision of around US$140 million in guarantees by the Argentine Government in Chinese yuan for Brazilian exports of equal value.

The initiative will involve State-run lender Banco do Brasil as Brazilian exports guarantor, Haddad said.

tially proposed by the Brazilian Government would provide security to its companies concerning their sales receipts amid Argentina's dollar shortage. Haddad acknowledged, however, that with this initial arrangement, Argentina's yuan reserves would decrease.

it was about taking on the gang.

Some of the bodies seen in the videos were wearing yellow and white shirts with "Pastor Marco" logos.

Many Haitians have since April joined civilian self-defence groups known as "Bwa Kale," to protect communities against violent gangs who now control large parts of the country, their frequent turf wars driving a devastating humanitarian crisis.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Hurricane Franklin intensifies as it moves towards Bermuda

Atropical storm watch has been issued for Bermuda as Hurricane Franklin, the first major storm of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane season, intensified into a Category Four hurricane on Monday.

The Miami-based US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that the hurricane was packing sustained maximum winds of 145 miles per hour (mph) and was about 480 miles south-

west of Bermuda and 440 miles north of Grand Turk Island.

The Meteorological Service of Bermuda has issued a tropical storm watch for the country, meaning that tropical storm conditions are possible within the area, generally within 48 hours.

According to the NHC, the centre of Hurricane Franklin was located near latitude 27.8 North, lon-

gitude 71.0 West and Franklin was moving towards the north near nine mph.

“This northward to north-north-eastward motion with a slightly faster forward speed is expected during the next few days. On the forecast track, the centre of Franklin is expected to pass well west of Bermuda on Wednesday,” the NHC said.

(Excerpt from CMC)

"We have no doubt that they will approve the operation, because it was the CAF's initiative," Massa told the press after a meeting with Haddad in

Argentina, Brazil's third-largest trading partner, is suffering an economic crisis marked by soaring inflation and dwindling central bank reserves.

Yuan guarantees ini-

"Argentina, with the support of CAF, does not need to give up these reserves to secure exports," he said, stressing that Brazil's initial proposal would stand and it would proceed "with what brings more comfort to Argentina and does not pose any kind of issue for us."

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Ecuadorean presidential hopeful vows prison ships, war on narcos

Wearing a bulletproof vest and surrounded by bodyguards, Ecuadorean presidential hopeful Daniel Noboa vows to lock up convicts on prison ships as his country wages a "war" on drug traffickers.

The 35-year-old is campaigning hard ahead of an October runoff dominated by lawlessness gripping the once-peaceful nation that has become a new hub for the global drug trade.

"Groups of narco-terrorists are involved here. We are living through a war," Noboa told AFP, sitting inside a well-guarded van in an interview in the western city of Salinas.

The spectre of violence looms over the candidate after the assassination of a top presidential contender just two weeks before the firstround vote on August 21, in which Noboa came second.

"I am saying similar things to him. Maybe they will kill me too," Noboa said of Journalist

and anti-corruption crusader Fernando Villavicencio, who was gunned down in broad daylight at a campaign event.

The murder shook up the election race, and Noboa shocked many by garnering 24 per cent of the votes cast. He had not polled anywhere near the frontrunners.

Noboa, the millionaire son of a banana magnate, was not

surprised at all, he told AFP. He said the results echoed those of private opinion polls his team carried out, and he deliberately flew under the radar.

"We never said we were coming second. The second always gets a beating, gets insulted, attacked," he said in the western city of Salinas. (Excerpt from AFP)

Heavy rains in Chile's central south farming region last week may have caused at least US$1 billion in losses, according to estimates by authorities and the industry.

The extreme weather conditions led the Government to declare a state of catastrophe last week as dangerous rains pounded isolated communities and at least three persons died.

The Government of President Gabriel Boric issued last week an agricultural emergency for 100 municipalities, approving some US$8.3 million to replace irrigation infrastructure, canal systems and other aid measures

for farmers, who called for more help.

"We are talking about damage of more than US$1 billion," National Agricultural Society (SNA) President Antonio Walker, said at a press conference after meeting with Chilean Agriculture Minister Esteban Valenzuela on Monday.

"There is damage to small, medium and large farmers, producers that supply the local market and also a lot of orchards that are dedicated to export," he added.

Aside from damage to irrigation systems and riverside areas, there were also losses of fruit and vegetable orchards and fodder

for animals, Valenzuela told reporters.

Besides being a top exporter of copper, the South American nation is also a strong agricultural and forestry exporter with shipments of fresh fruit and nuts, pulp, wine and wood.

Walker said that urgent measures needed to be taken before the arrival of the southern spring in September, when certain crops are irrigated.

Farmers also now fear that the El Niño weather phenomenon, which has brought heavy rains to central Chile after years of water scarcity, could cause further instability in the coming spring months.

(Reuters)

Calypsonian/gospel artiste Denyse Plummer dies

Calypsonian turned gospel artiste Denyse

Plummer died Sunday after a long battle with cancer. She was 69 years.

Plummer, who produced many top songs such as “Nah Leaving”, which became a national anthem for patriotic Trinidadians; “Heroes”, which earned her the Calypso Monarch back in 2001, and “Woman is Boss” had been one of T&T’s leading female calypsonians. She would later change her life as a bornagain Christian, giving up the artform she struggled very hard to gain acceptance in.

A month ago, the country got a major scare when ru-

mours circulated that she had died. On Sunday, many fans and well-wishers desperately tried to ensure the information had been verified before making comments or posts, especially on social media

Her passing also came a few days after the country lost another icon, historian/author Michael Anthony, last week.

Plummer made her national onstage debut in 1986 at the Calypso Fiesta in Skinner Park and despite facing challenges from a hostile crowd, progressed to be one of the country’s most decorated calypsonians. She was the child of a white father and black mother. Her complex-

ion saw her facing much prejudice in an environment that was seen traditionally as AfroTrinidadian but male-dominated.

She was the fifth female calypsonian to win both the Young Kings and National Calypso Queens Competition. She also made it to five Calypso Monarchs, winning in 2001.

In a statement, Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) president Ainsley King extended condolences to Plummer’s family, friends and those who were touched by her remarkable talent and spirit. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Man carries an elderly man as they flee their neighbourhood Carrefour Feuilles after gangs took over, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, August 15, 2023 (Reuters/Ralph Tedy Erol photo)

Heavy rains in Chile likely caused over US$1B in agriculture losses

Ecuadorean presidential candidate Daniel Noboa, of the National Democratic Action Party, speaks during an interview with AFP after a campaign rally at the Benjamin Carrion Sports Centre in Salinas, Ecuador, on August 25, 2023

Oil steady as possible rate hikes stoke demand worry, storm could hit supply

Oil prices held steady on Monday, pressured by worries further US interest rate hikes could dent demand but supported by the potential of a supply disruption from a tropical storm off the US Gulf Coast.

Brent crude settled 6 cents lower at US$84.42 a barrel, after touching a session high of over US$85 earlier in the day. US West Texas Intermediate crude was 27 cents, or 0.3%, higher at US$80.10.

On Friday, crude posted a second week of losses after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said the US central bank may need to raise rates further to cool stubborn inflation.

"There are concerns still about demand going to lighten especially if we see another click higher in interest rates, the market is very nervous," said Dennis Kissler, senior Vice President of trading at BOK Financial.

Personal consumption expenditures price index, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, is set for release on Thursday and non-farm payrolls data is due on Friday.

China halved stamp duty on stock trading, but Chinese stock markets erased most of their strong opening gains on nagging worries about a stuttering economy.

The oil market's focus is on "China actions to support its economy, Tropical Storm Idalia heading for Florida and whether Brent can regain momentum on a break above US$85," said Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank.

Tropical Storm Idalia was expected to intensify into a major hurricane on Monday as it barrelled toward Florida's Gulf Coast. Some worried it could hit the eastern side of US Gulf Coast crude production.

Idalia most likely impact was a day or two of power outages, said IG market analyst Tony Sycamore. That "should see some short-term support for the oil price", he said.

Oil prices have remained above US$80 a barrel with support from falling oil inventories and supply cuts from the OPEC+ group of oil producers.

Saudi Arabia is expected to extend a voluntary oil output cut of 1 million barrels a day into October, analysts told Reuters last week, as the kingdom seeks to further support the market. (Reuters)

First Ugandan charged with 'aggravated homosexuality' punishable by death

A20-year-old man has become the first Ugandan to be charged with "aggravated homosexuality", an offence punishable by death under the country's recently enacted anti-gay law, prosecutors and his lawyer said.

Defying pressure from Western governments and rights organisations, Uganda in May enacted one of the world's harshest laws targeting the LGBT community.

It prescribes life in prison for same-sex intercourse. The death penalty can apply in cases deemed "aggravated", which include repeat offences, gay sex that transmits terminal illness, or same-sex intercourse with a minor, an elderly person or a person with disabilities.

According to a charge sheet seen by Reuters, the defendant was charged on Aug 18 with aggravated homosexuality after he "performed unlawful sexual intercourse" with a 41-year-old man. It did not

Around The World Ukraine says it liberates strategic settlement

Ukraine said on Monday its troops had liberated the southeastern settlement of Robotyne and were trying to push farther south in their two-month-old counteroffensive against occupying Russian forces.

The Ukrainian military said that its troops last week had raised the national flag in the strategic village and posted a video showing the move. The forces then carried out mopping-up operations until they confirmed control on Monday, the military said.

"Robotyne has been liberated," Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar was quoted as saying on Monday by the military.

The settlement is 10 km (six miles) south of the frontline town of Orikhiv in

the Zaporizhzhia region on an important road towards Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub.

Tokmak's capture would be a milestone as Ukrainian troops press southwards towards the Sea of Azov in a military drive that is intended to split Russian forces following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Russia has not confirmed the Ukrainian advance. In a statement, Russia's Defence Ministry said Moscow's troops had repelled attacks by Kyiv's forces near Robotyne and Verbove.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy spoke on Monday of different sectors of the front in his nightly video address but made no reference to Robotyne. He said Ukrainian forces were pre-

paring responses to Russian plans "definitely. In a way they do not anticipate".

Ukraine believes its fighters have broken through the most difficult line of Russian

defences in the south and that they will now start advancing more quickly, a commander who led troops into Robotyne told Reuters last week. (Excerpt from Reuters)

French ban of abaya robes in schools draws applause, criticism

The French Government's decision to ban children from wearing the abaya, the loose-fitting, full-length robes worn by some Muslim women, in State-run schools drew applause on Monday from the right, but also criticism.

France has enforced a ban on religious symbols in State schools since 2004, to uphold its strict brand of secularism, known as "laicite".

The topic is a sensitive one, regularly triggering political tension in the country.

"Our schools are continually put under test, and over the past months, breaches to laicite have increased considerably, in particular with (pupils) wearing religious attire like abayas and kameez," Education Minister Gabriel Attal told a news conference to explain Sunday's ban.

The head of the conservative Les Republicains party, Eric Ciotti, was quick to welcome the move, which he said was long overdue.

But many on the left criticised the move, including Clementine Autain, an

MP for the hard-left France Insoumise, who criticised what she called the "clothes police" and a move "characteristic of an obsessional rejection of Muslims".

And some academics agreed the move could be counterproductive, all the more as it touched on clothing they said was worn for fashion or identity rather than religion.

"It's going to hurt Muslims in general. They will, once again, feel stigmatised," said sociologist Agnes De Feo, who has been re-

searching French women wearing niqab for the past decade.

"It's really a shame because people will judge these young girls, while it (the abaya) is a teenage expression without consequences."

In 2004, France banned headscarves in schools and passed a ban on full face veils in public in 2010, angering some in its more than five million-strong Muslim community, and triggering the creation of private Muslim schools, De Feo said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

specify why the act was considered aggravated.

"Since it is a capital offence triable by the High Court, the charge was read out and explained to him in the Magistrate’s Court on (the) 18th and he was remanded," Jacqueline Okui, spokesperson for the office of the director of public prosecutions, told Reuters.

Justine Balya, an attorney for the defendant, said she believed the entire law was unconstitutional. The law has been challenged in court, but the judges have not yet taken up the case.

The law's enactment three months ago drew widespread condemnation and threats of sanctions. Earlier this month, the World Bank suspended new public financing to Uganda in response to the law.

The United States has also imposed visa restrictions on some Ugandan officials, and President Joe Biden ordered a review of US aid to Uganda. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Taliban stop female Afghan students leaving country to study in Dubai

Japan complains of harassment calls from China over Fukushima water release

"

After the Taliban shut universities for women, my only hope was to get a scholarship which would help me study abroad," says 20-year-old Afghan student Natkai.

Natkai's name has been changed for her own safety.

The Taliban have cracked down hard on women who oppose them.

Natkai says she kept studying even though there was little chance of her ever attending university in her homeland.

Then she was granted a scholarship to study at the University of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from Emirati billionaire businessman Sheikh Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor.

The scholarships for Afghan women were announced in December 2022 after the Taliban banned women from university.

On Wednesday 23 August, Natkai said goodbye to her family and set off for the airport.

But her hopes were soon dashed.

Natkai is one of at least 60 girls who were turned away from the airport.

The Taliban has banned solo travel for women and only allow them to go abroad with their husbands or a related male companion such as a brother, uncle or father, known as a mahram, a male escort.

But even this was not enough.

A young man we're calling Shams Ahmad, accompanied his sister to the airport and described the distress.

"The scholarship gave new hope to my sister after the universities were closed here. She left home with hope and returned in tears," he says. "All her rights have been taken away."

Ahmad says some of the women even borrowed money to pay for a visa for a male companion to accompany them but were still stopped.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Japan said on Monday it had received many "extremely regrettable" harassment phone calls, likely from China, after the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific.

The Chinese embassy in Tokyo said it too had been receiving nuisance calls, from Japan.

Japan started the water discharge on Thursday in a key step towards decommissioning the Fukushima plant, which suffered triple meltdowns after being hit by a tsunami in 2011 in the world's worst nuclear plant disaster since Chernobyl 25 years earlier.

"A lot of harassment phone calls believed to be originating from China are occurring in Japan ... These developments are extremely regrettable and we are concerned," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, the chief Government spokesman, told a regular news conference.

Such calls prompted Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano to summon the Chinese ambassador, Japan's Foreign Ministry said.

A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry said it was not aware of the matter when asked about the harassment accusations at a regular briefing on Monday.

But the Chinese embassy in Tokyo released a statement saying it had lodged stern representations with Japan about the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan receiving "a large number of nuisance calls from Japan".

The calls have caused "serious interference in the normal operation of the embassy and consulates", Ambassador Wu Jianghao said, according to an embassy statement.

In a statement, Japan's Foreign Ministry said the harassment calls were also occurring at Japanese facilities in China, and urged the Government to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

A Ukrainian serviceman walks near a destroyed Ukrainian tank near the village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, August 25, 2023

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Take a walk down memory lane and revive an old idea, friendship or activity. Call the shots and make things happen. Do whatever it takes to increase your self-esteem and put your best foot forward.

(March 21-April 19)

Make a statement. Show confidence in yourself and what you can bring to the table. Offering a truthful assessment will stop anyone from trying to talk you out of your hard-earned cash.

(April 20-May 20)

You have more leverage than you think. Question what others say and walk away from demands you don't like. Run the show instead of letting someone take advantage of you.

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22)

View with trepidation any proposed joint transaction requiring a quick decision or down payment. Be smart, take your time and don't be afraid to go it alone. Have confidence in your ability.

Take control when deciding what's best for you. Be wary of anyone using emotional tactics to push you in a problematic, costly or questionable direction. Put yourself first.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Ponder over details until you feel comfortable with them. Use intelligence when dealing with outside influences or pursuing new information that can transform your life or how you do things.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Surround yourself with people who point you in a healthy and profitable direction. Say no to temptation and over-the-top suggestions. Socialize with people who care about health and well-being. Pay attention to valuable tips.

Think before you respond to someone. Overreacting will result in changes that are emotionally damaging. Concentrate on using your imagination to bring about stability and security. Walk away from chaos.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Speak kindly, be patient and protect your privacy. Keep life simple. Stick to what you know, and respond to others in good faith and with compassion. Pay attention to how you feel.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Develop a detailed plan before acting. A lifestyle change will positively impact your financial situation; however, it's likely to create a problem with someone who often takes advantage of you.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Have faith in your intuition and ability, but don't ignore the possibility that the information you receive may be exaggerated. Get the facts before you act or share what you hear.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

It's up to you to make changes if something is holding you back. Tidy up loose ends and explore the available possibilities. Leave nothing to chance or in someone else's hands.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Better-Hope crowned OSCL 10-10 champions

Better-Hope were crowned the new champions in the 2023 Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) 1010 A Division Tournament after pulling off a thrilling four-run win over Caribbean Sensation on Sunday at Ellesmere Ground, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.

In the process, Better-Hope dethroned Mercenary, beating them also in the lone semi-final that took place Saturday at the same facility.

In the gripping final, Better-Hope took first strike at the invitation of Caribbean Sensation and rallied along to a competitive 61-6 from the 10 overs.

Caribbean Sensation responded with 57-9 and their 10 overs ran out. Only Anil Ramoutar offered a fight with 14 as Nick Sarwan grabbed 3-9 from his maximum two overs.

Skipper Sunil Ramkissoon, veteran Avinash Singh and Rakesh Ramoutar supported with one wicket each.

When Better-Hope batted, Reyaz Prahalad topscored with 20, an innings laced with two fours and

he got some support from former Guyana youth cricketer Harrienarine Chattergoon, who made 14. Richard Driffield captured 2-3 (02). Sarwan was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance.

Meanwhile, in the semi-final showdown, Avinash Singh churned out an excellent bowling display to pilot BetterHope into the final.

The Canada-based Guyanese Singh snapped up 3-9 from his two overs to help bowl out Mercenary

Rubiales’ resignation demanded by Spanish football leaders

Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regional leaders have called on their President, Luis Rubiales to immediately resign after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso.

Rubiales, 46, has been widely criticised after the incident following Spain's Women's World Cup final win.

Hermoso, 33, said the kiss on her lips was not consensual.

Earlier, Spanish Prosecutors opened a pre-

in order to make way for a new stage in the management of Spanish football," the statement added.

When FIFA announced Rubiales had been suspended on Saturday, it ordered him, the RFEF, and its officials and employees not to attempt to contact Hermoso, whom the RFEF had threatened with legal action earlier that day.

Meanwhile, Spain's Sports Tribunal (TAD) also met on Monday to discuss the Spanish Government's request to suspend Rubiales,

Spanish coast – the town where her son was raised –and says she has gone on a hunger strike because of the "inhuman hunt" against him.

She told Spanish news agency EFE the strike would continue "indefinite, day and night" – and added the "inhuman and bloody hunt that they are doing with my son is something he does not deserve".

Rubiales' cousin Vanessa Ruiz, who acts as a family spokesperson in Motril, said: "We are suffering a lot for

for an inadequate 48 in the ninth over while BetterHope responded with 52-2 in the 5th over.

The tournament was played in memory of Vish Jadunauth, who was a long-serving and dedicated executive of the OSCL. The Guyanese Jadunauth met his demise in early 2022 due to illness. Trophies were sponsored by Norman Sue Bakery.

Leguan Warriors claimed the B Division trophy, having defeated Ramblers Cricket Club by 80 runs.

Biles makes history with record 8th US title

Simone Biles broke a 90-year record by winning her eighth all-around title at the US Gymnastics Championships.

Her win comes less than a month after the four-time Olympic champion returned to competition, following a two-year break to work on her mental health.

The 26-year-old's floor routine earned a score of 15.400, giving her an allaround total of 118.450, with Shilese Jones 3.9 points back in second.

Biles moves ahead of Alfred Jochim, who claimed his seventh US title in 1933.

She was the only competitor to finish the two days of competition in San Jose with two scores of 15 or higher, having taken control of the event with 15.700 on the vault on Friday.

Biles first became

US all-around champion in 2013 and matched Jochim's record in 2021.

Later that year she took a break from gymnastics after pulling out of five of her six finals at the delayed Tokyo Olympics.

She later explained she had been experiencing “the twisties” – a kind of mental block where gymnasts can lose their sense of space in the air.

Biles, who did man -

age to win a balance beam bronze and a team silver in Tokyo, is yet to indicate whether she will aim to compete at next year's Olympics in Paris.

But she is expected to take part in the World Championships in Antwerp from September 30 to October 8, where she would have the chance to add to her tally of 25 world medals, including 19 golds.

(BBC Sport)

liminary investigation into whether the incident amounts to a crime of sexual assault.

In other developments on Monday, Rubiales' mother Angeles Bejar has locked herself in a Spanish church and gone on a hunger strike in protest of the treatment of her son. In the evening, hundreds of people gathered in the centre of Madrid in protests called by feminist groups in support of Hermoso and against Rubiales.

Rubiales was suspended on Saturday by world football's governing body FIFA, a day after he had insisted he would not resign.

"After recent events and the unacceptable behaviour that has seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the presidents request that Luis Rubiales resign immediately as President of the RFEF," the Federation said in a statement on Monday, after an extraordinary meeting of its regional presidents.

The presidents also gave their "unanimous support" to interim RFEF chief Pedro Rocha and called for an overhaul of the Federation's management.

"We will urge the relevant authorities to carry out a profound and imminent organisational restructuring in strategic positions of the Federation

with a decision yet to be announced.

Preliminary investigation opened Spain's top criminal court said it was opening its investigation in light of the "unequivocal nature" of Hermoso's statements, saying it was necessary "to determine their legal significance".

"Given the public statements made by Jennifer Hermoso, the sexual act she was subjected to by Luis Rubiales was not consensual," a statement said.

Legal experts will also contact the player "to offer her the option of legal action, giving her the chance to contact National Court Prosecutors within 15 days for information about her rights as a victim of an alleged sexual assault should she wish to file a complaint".

The statement added: "In order to proceed with a case for sexual assault, harassment or sexual abuse, it will be necessary for the injured party or their legal representative to file suit, or the public prosecutors' office."

Rubiales' mother goes on hunger strike

Rubiales' mother Angeles Bejar has locked herself in the Divina Pastora church in Motril on the southern

him. He has been judged before his time.

"They [the media] don't stop harassing us. We had to leave our house. We want them to leave us alone and for Jenni to tell the truth. It's not fair."

“Male chauvinism systemic in Spain”

Spain's acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz said on Monday that male chauvinism was "systemic" in the country, and had been shown in its worst form in the incident involving Rubiales.

Diaz, who is also deputy prime minister and head of the far-left Sumar coalition, called for social attitudes to change more generally in the country – and for victims of sexual harassment and violence to be better protected.

"On Friday we saw the worst of Spanish society, of the structural machismo of this country," she said after meeting with representatives of the women's players' union Futpro, which represents Hermoso.

"They clapped and humiliated and made fun of a person they had the obligation to protect under the sports law and far from doing that, they inflicted more damage, more pain, more vexation." (BBC Sport)

The victorious Better-Hope team strike a pose after the final encounter

Simone Biles is the most decorated US gymnast

Pressure has been growing on Luis Rubiales from many quarters

Kevin Sinclair Foundation to be launched in “Cow Dam”

Guyana and West Indies all-rounder Kevin Sinclair continues to grow from strength to strength, as he will launch the Kevin Sinclair Foundation before the year ends.

The 23-year-old Berbician noted that he would launch his academy in New Amsterdam, Angoy’s Avenue, which is wellknown as “Cow Dam”.

“Firstly, I want to start in “Cow Dam” where I'm from. There is a lot that is needed to be done in those small communities to keep

Super50 tournament…

these kids from the negatives out there.”

“It's about remembering where I came from, so, I always want to give back and assist those in need to reach their goals whether it’s through sport or education,” the humble cricketer said.

The sponsors for the Kevin Sinclair Foundation are Cricket Zone USA, Vet Communications, Genuine Auto Spares, and Vishal Mahabir A Grade Contracting Services.

Among the persons who have supported Sinclair in building his foundation are: Anil Beharry,

WDFA Senior Men’s League…

Safraz Sheriffudeen, Kevin Darlington, ASP Michael Newland, and Bryan Joseph.

The Kevin Sinclair Foundation is a non-profit organisation that will help those in need through necessities. Earlier in the year, Sinclair started his cricket academy in Demerara and Berbice, and each academy was hailed a success.

This young cricketer who has made great strides on the field, continues to make similar strides off the field.

The slogan for the Kevin Sinclair Foundation is: Inspiring to make a difference. This foundation will be helping youths and needy people in Guyana, going into communities that are less fortunate and assisting in any way possible.

Pouderoyen, Slingerz win big

On Saturday, Uprising FC remained grounded as they were hammered 8-0 by Pouderoyen FC when the West Demerara FA's Senior Men's League continued at the Tuschen Community Centre Ground.

Chidum Matthews spearheaded the goal spree with a treble (13', 60' and 74'), while there were doubles from Kennaz Stephen (70' and 76') and Darell Abrams (20' and 33'). Jarret Williams opened the scoring in the third minute. It was the third win for Pouderoyen who retain third position on the table with nine points from four matches, while Uprising stay in fifth on three points from four games.

The second encounter failed to produce a winner as Uitvlugt Warriors came from behind twice to share the points and hold on to second place, with 10 points after four games. Belle West took the lead via Shoan Williams in the 15th minute, and Gasper Adams equalised for the Warriors in the 38th minute. Within two minutes of play, Ntini August regained the lead from a penalty kick conversion, but it only lasted a minute as Travis Fraser was on target to level the score again. The one point lifted Belle West FC to five points from four outings as they remain in fourth position of

the nine-team Senior Men's League.

Meanwhile on Sunday, former Elite League champions, Slingerz FC continued their domination of the WDFA League as they secured a fourth consecutive win, to maintain their perfect run.

In another vintage display, Slingerz scored five unanswered goals against Crane Rovers to take their season tally to 36 goals.

Deon Alfred produced a brace in the 63rd and 69th minutes to lead all scorers, while there was one apiece for: Jamal Codrington (4'), Lennox Young (25') and Dominique Bobb (85').

In the other game of the double-header, Eagles FC

outlasted Number One All Stars 4-2. David Chislom opened the scoring for the winners in the 14th minute and one minute later, Telbert Baptist doubled the score. Chislom found the back of the nets again in the 26th minute before Jared Softleigh responded with a double in the 31st and 35th minutes for a 3-2 Eagles lead.

Kelvin Kubal added his name to the scorers' list in the 60th minute to seal the victory for Eagles.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) through its Members-Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP) is providing funding for the staging of the League competition.

crowned champions

North Essequibo

of Essequibo leg – after defeating East Bank Essequibo by 7 wickets

Man of the Match and Most Valuable Player Rajendra Ramballi receives his prize from Guyana Cricket Board’s Anthony D’Andrade

North Essequibo romped to victory in the Essequibo leg of the Republic Bank Under-23 Super50 Tournament, after rattling East Bank Essequibo out for just 66 runs. S Viera (18) and A Mohammed (16) were the only players to get out of the blocks for East Bank

Champions of the Essequibo leg, North Essequibo

Essequibo.

The North Essequibo bowlers operated as a unit, with the skipper Lance Roberts, Sheldon Charles, S Mohammed and N Gill each picking up two wickets in a good effort.

Opener Rajendra Ramballi then eased himself to 34 not

out with four boundaries as North Essequibo cruised to 68-3 in 18.2 overs.

In-form spinner Aryan Persaud grabbed 2 wickets for East Bank Essequibo, who's bowlers failed to defend the already low total. Ramballi was later adjudged Man of the Match.

Black Mambas, Bounty Colts secure big wins

The inaugural “One Guyana” Basketball Tournament continued on Saturday, August 19 at the National Gymnasium with three games. Kwakwani Untouchables and Cummingsburg Colts managed to secure wins.

The first game started off with Kwakwani Untouchables coming against the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) with Kwakwani showcasing their skills to go – up 14-11 – to end the first quarter.

The soldiers did not give up the fight and kept their composure to amp a terrific comeback scoring 20 points to increase their score to 31 points while Kwakwani were limited to 14 more points for a score of 28 at the end of the first quarter.

The Kwakwani outfit then scored 20 points off the soldiers’ tight defence to increase their score to 48 points at the end of the third quarter while the soldiers added 11 points to their score of 41.

The game concluded with the soldiers showcasing their shooting skills, but they were not enough to carry the team over the line, with the GDF scoring 19 points for a final score of 61 and Kwakwani swishing the ball for 11 points and a final score of 65.

In the second game of the night, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts looked to come back strong after their first defeat with a commanding lead in the first quarter against Cummingsburg UG Trojans, with the scoreline reading 17-10.

The Bolts continued to dominate the game, scoring 19 points to elevate their score to 36 points while limiting the Trojans to 15 and scored 25 points.

The Trojans managed to fight back, but the Bolts's defence was tough, limiting the Trojans to six points and 31 points in total at the end of the first half . The Bolts then seemed to calm down to score 12 points for a total of 48 points.

The Bolts went on to secure the first game in the final quarter, scoring 14 points with a final score of 62 while the Trojans outscored them with 21 points for a final score of 52.

The concluding match saw The Black Mambas securing a win against Plaisance Guardians with the scoreline reading 5248. The tournament-winning team will pocket $1 million along with trophies, while the runners-up would receive $500,000 plus trophies.

The tournament was made possible by sponsorship from the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry; G-Boats Guyana; National Sports Commission; Guyana Basketball Federation, and Georgetown Basketball Federation.

West Indian cricketer Kevin Sinclair

Slingerz FC are unbeaten in the WDFA Tournament

Basketball action at the National Gymnasium

Massy Women’s CPL…

Great preparation, balanced team for GAW Women – Taylor

Captain Stafanie Taylor, local star Shemaine Campbelle and other members of the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ Women’s team departed the Eugene F Correia Airport, Ogle on Monday afternoon, en route to Barbados for the commencement of the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

The members of the team have been training together over the past few weeks and on Sunday, met President Dr Irfaan Ali at State House and spent time with children from the Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage.

Taylor shared a little on the time spent in Guyana, expressing optimism on clinching the trophy.

“You know, meeting the President that was actually good. I actually didn’t know how funny he is until I met him. So, yeah, it has gone really well, we were able to go to and visit a home, Shaheed’s Girls’ home, that was really good. And I’m hoping that, you know, we could actually get the title this year,” the GAW Women’s Captain shared during an in-

vited comment.

Quizzed about the team’s preparation for this year’s tournament, Taylor noted that it has been good.

She said, “The preparation so far has been really good. Probably for the first time, I know last year was maybe a little impromptu, but this year was better in terms of preparation. The girls were able to train with the guys and get some preparation going.

“Yeah, I’m actually looking forward to this year, we have new overseas players and ones

Guyanese team shine at CAC Chess Festival

The XIV CAC Youth Chess Festival has ended with the conclusion of the final round in the morning of August 26 and the subsequent closing ceremonies in the evening. This final event marked the culmination of a challenging and exhilarating journey spanning nine rounds of chess.

who are actually on the world stage. So, just looking forward to see how things shape up this year,” she added.

While the Captain did not pick a particular strength of the team, she expressed confidence in the balance that the GAW Women possesses.

“The team is quite balanced, which I’m really happy about. I can’t say if our strength is in the batting or bowling, but I’m happy that we’re quite balanced and I think we’re just pumped and ready to go,” Taylor explained.

The GAW Women will play their first game of the Women’s CPL against the Barbados Royals Women at the Kensington Oval, on Thursday, August 31. That game is set to bowl off at 15:00h local time.

The GAW Women’s team reads: Captain Stafanie Taylor, Shemaine Campbelle, Sheneta Grimmond, CherryAnn Fraser, Shabika Gajnabi, Kaysia Schultz, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Shakera Selman, Natasha McLean, Djenaba Joseph, Sophie Devine, Sheynika Patil, Suzie Bates, and Shabnim Ismail.

The festival, which commenced on August 21, brought together 231 young players aged 6 to 18 from a diverse range of countries, including The Bahamas, Barbados, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama, Saint Lucia, Suriname, and the host nation, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The standout player for Guyana was the youngest team member, 10-year-old Kataleya Sam. She impressively maintained her third-place standing in the Under-10 Female category, securing a conditional Women's Candidate Master title. This remarkable achievement awaits official confirmation when she achieves an international rating of 1800 or higher.

In a captivating display of strategic finesse and tactical acumen, Kyle Couchman emerged victorious against the ultimate Under-14 Open champion, Kael Samuel Bisnauth, in an intense match for the final game of the tournament. As the game progressed, Couchman capitalised on Bisnauth's weak-

Silvers for Guyanese team at Trinidad International Series

The duo of Priyanna Ramdhani and Akili Haynes has roped in two silver-medal performances at the just-concluded Trinidad International Series 2023 Badminton tournament.

The Guyanese duo teamed up for the mixed doubles division, where they defeated Trinidad and Tobago’s Vishal Ramsubhag and Danyelle Barnes 21-18, 21-7 in the second round of the competition, after gaining a bye in the first round. In the quarter-finals, Barbados’s Kenni King and Shari Hope fell prey to the

Guyanese duo in a three-setter, 21-13, 12-21, 21-16. In the semi-finals, they defeated Trinidad’s Sameer Ali and Janiah Boodoosingh 217, 21-13, to clinch their spot in the championship game against Samuel Ricketts and Tahlia Richardson of Jamaica.

Meanwhile, Ramdhani

later teamed up with Barbados’s Monyata Riviera for the women’s doubles category. The GuyaneseBajan duo eased into the quarter-finals, after defeating the Trinidadian pair of Nekeisha Blake and Janiah Boodoosingh 21-12,

21-4 in round one. There, T’Shelle Barnes and Amara Urquhart, also of Trinidad, were no match for the Guyanese- Barbadian team, losing 21-8, 21-8.

On to the semi-finals, Ramdhani and Riviera overcame Barbados’s Kenni King and Shari Hope 21-13, 1221, 21-16, for a shot at the gold medal. They were intended to take on Canadian duo Jeslyn Chow and Eliana Zhang in the final.

However, Ramdhani sustained an unfortunate knee injury and was unable to play in either final.

nesses and consolidated his advantage. With precise moves and astute piece coordination, Couchman deftly navigated the complexities of the position. His mastery of the endgame phase proved decisive, ultimately leading to a well-earned victory.

The final position witnessed a resilient effort from both players, but Couchman's adept handling of the strategic nuances secured him a well-deserved vic-

tory. Alexander Zhang also showcased his prowess, securing 4.5 points in the Under-16 Open. He notably outplayed his Round 7 opponent, Luke Balliram from Trinidad and Tobago, boasting an international rating of 1280. Zhang's strategic finesse was particularly evident in his adept handling of the French defence, culminating in an advantageous endgame.

“Two days ago, I injured my knee, but I tried my best to continue playing for my teammates. I pushed through my matches and made it to finals; however, I was not able to walk/run on the day of the finals. Sorry to disappoint, but I tried my best,” Ramdhani shared via a social media post following the competition.

Though their opponents gained walkovers in the finals, the Guyanese players had already secured their silver medals by virtue of making it to the finals.

Italy Ton-Chung, playing in the Under-16 female category, demonstrated her resolve, concluding with four points. Notable victories against rated player Kavita Singh and a draw against Adelia Duffrin, both from Trinidad, showcased TonChung's competitive spirit.

Twelve-year-old Nicholas Zhang played well in the Under-12 category, accumulating five points and securing a noteworthy draw against Aaron Jaikaran (1268) from Barbados.

Dominic Sam's participation in the U-14 Open Category yielded three points, including an impressive draw against Trinidad's Kyle Maharaj (1169). Ciel Clement scored four points in the Under-14 female competition with one win against Haiti, 2 against Trinidad and a bye. Newcomer Kaija Clement, also in the Under-14 female tournament, benefited from a bye in round three and a round four win against Trinidadian Angela Honore.

Aniyah Couchman, playing in the Under-18 female tournament, struggled against three Woman Candidate Masters and a Woman FIDE Master, but still was able to score by defeating Kinberlie Dunat of Haiti (1357) with a beautiful Ruy Lopez opening and a winning end game.

Ronan Lee and Matthew Singh ended the tournament on 3.5 points each in the Under-18 category. Lee clinched victories against Trinidadian Keagan Ragoobar (1495) and drew with Saqiv Williams (1334). Singh's game with Ragoobar ended in a draw, but he was able to score against Kaiel Scoon (1071) in round three, also from Trinidad.

The tournament was expertly organised by the TTCA

and CCA, held at the Cascadia Hotel in Port-of-Spain, and received significant support from the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago through the Ministry of Sport and Community Development. Chief Arbiter Ishmael Soto Gonsalves (IA) from Puerto Rico oversaw the games, assisted by Deputy Chief Arbiters Roderick Noel (FA) and Sadiqah Razark.

The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) is proud to have fielded the team for participation in the CAC Youth Chess Festival. The GCF recognises the need for international competition as it allows players to earn international ratings and win titles. Federation President Anand Raghunauth emphasised the profound value of the experience garnered from this event, and said players could only grow as chess players from these events. He extended thanks to Marcia Lee, who headed the delegation and Roberto Neto, whose coaching and unwavering support proved instrumental throughout the tournament.

Special commendation was reserved for FM Anthony Drayton, whose contributions to the players' training, both in the lead-up and during the event, have been paramount to their preparation and performance.

The Chess Federation and the Guyana team expressed their gratitude to the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association (TTCA) and the Chess Confederation of the Americas (CCA) for their exceptional execution of the tournament. The team were enriched by the camaraderie and warm hospitality of the Trinidadian hosts, and eagerly anticipated future events of this calibre.

GAW Captain Stafanie Taylor (Jemima Holmes photo)

The Guyanese team at the CAC Youth Chess Festival

Kataleya Sam Kyle Couchman

A look at Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani in action

Priyanna Ramdhani and her women’s doubles partner Monyata Riviera sport their medals