Guyana Times -Sunday, August 20, 2023

CANU unearths $11M worth of ganja stashed near creek

Ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Saturday unearthed a large quantity of cannabis during an operation in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

According to reports, CANU officers conducted the operation at Sandaka Creek, where they discovered several bags, containing several parcels of suspected cannabis in clumps of bushes along the creek.

The suspected cannabis was retrieved and taken to CANU’s Skeldon Office, Corentyne, Berbice, where it tested positive for cannabis, weighing approximate-

ly 37.4 kg (about 82.4 lbs), with a street value of approximately $11.2 million.

CANU said no one was arrested. However, investigations are ongoing.

The parcels of cannabis that were found by CANU

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, Aug 20 – 07:00h – 08:30h and

Monday, Aug 21 – 04:15h – 05:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Aug 20 – 06:15h – 07:45h and

Monday, Aug 21 – 06:50h – 08:20h.

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 light rain showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 06:44h and 18:59h reaching maximum heights of 2.63 metres and 2.58 metres.

Low Tide: 12:36h reaching a minimum height of 0.63 metre.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Agriculture now “bedrock of our country” – Agri Minister at commissioning of

$500M cutter-head dredge

Residents and farmers will now benefit from improved drainage across the country with the procurement of a half-billion-dollar cutter head dredge.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha commissioned the cutter head dredge at Little Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara on Saturday. The dredge, a first of its kind for the Ministry, was procured by the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to the tune of $497,464,600 and will be used to desilt outfall channels and improve drainage systems across the country.

During remarks at the commissioning ceremony, Mustapha said that the new piece of equipment was a testament to the Government’s commitment to delivering quality services through state-of-the-art equipment to residents and farmers across the country.

“This cutter head dredge will not only improve the drainage in the residential area, but it will also contribute tremendously to production in the farming communities… We have hundreds of outfalls around the country and this piece of equipment will help us to clear those outfalls easily… Based on the specifications, we will now take about two weeks to clear an outfall where as it would usually take four weeks or more. Not only will the residential areas benefit, but the farming communities will also benefit. Agriculture is now the bedrock of our country. As a Government, our vision is to develop this sector,” Mustapha explained.

Meanwhile, NDIA Chairman Lionel Wordsworth noted that although the idea of acquiring a cutter head dredge was conceptualised some time back, it was only in 2021 that the Government approved funds for it to be procured.

“In 2021, we got our approved budget to move forward. It later went out for public tendering and through a competitive bidding process, a contract was later awarded. I’m happy to say that the entire design, supervision, fabrication, and putting together of equipment was done by Guyanese engineers and staff. This piece of equipment is the first of its kind for NDIA whereby it’s a self-propelled vessel equipped with the component to do the dredging. This will allow us to be more responsive to address the concerns of dredging outfall channels,” the NDIA Chairman noted.

The dredge is outfitted with a global positioning system (GPS), life-saving and fire-protection equipment, propulsion and steering systems, and operating

equipment which includes two excavators, a cutter head and engine, a generator, living quarters for nine operators, etc.

The cutter head was designed to be fitted on a shortreach excavator, which increases the mobility of the equipment, allowing it to have a wider range of operations as well as increased efficiency of the cutter head while excavating material.

The cutter head has a suction bore of 250mm and a discharge pipe of 250mm. Driven by another 400HP Cummins engine, the pump speed can reach up to 900rpm, allowing for a mixture of speed and cutter discharge of 1250m 3 /h at water head of 20m.

Back in May 2021, the NDIA signed a contract with S Jagmohan Hardware Supplies for the supply of the cutter head dredge. At the time, Minister Mustapha said the products that were

to be provided were seen as critical.

During Saturday’s commissioning, the Agriculture Minister pointed out that Government is making these huge investments to procure equipment such as this dredge to not only modernise Guyana’s infrastructure but also respond to the needs of people in the country.

“We are responding to needs of our people… If you’re a farmer, we’re hoping to mitigate flooding so that you will ensure that you don’t lose your crop because if you lose your crop, the Government has to find funds to give back to you to go back to the land,” he stated.

To further boost the drainage systems, Government is building nine new pump stations across the country, and contracts were signed on Friday for another four pump stations.

According to Mustapha, there needs to be 24-hour draining since tidal drainage is not effective especially given that Guyana is below sea level.

“We need to improve drainage capacity,” he noted.

One of the contracts signed on Friday was for a new pump station at Craig, East Bank Demara, to the tune of nearly $1 billion.

The Agriculture Minister outlined the importance of effective drainage systems especially for farmlands, given Guyana’s aggressive drive to enhance food production and food security not only locally but in the Caribbean Region as well.

He said that Government is currently working on agriculture insurance for local farmers. Her noted they are currently engaging an insurance company on this matter.

The newly commissioned $500M cutter-head dredge

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The 1823 Rebellion

Friday, Aug 18, marked the 200th anniversary of the great 1823 slave rebellion in the colony of Demerara -before the British unified it with Berbice and Essequibo in 1831 to create British Guiana. After a series of exchanges of government with the Dutch and the French from 1796, the British had finally taken possession of the three colonies in 1812. During their stint in 1807, they had abolished the trading of African slaves, who had been used as labour on the cotton, coffee and sugar plantations.

While British historians and officialdom have traditionally presented the abolition of the trade as a symbol of their enlightened civilization, it was actually part of larger historical forces that undermined the institution in the evolving capitalistic relations of production. Marx would later dub slavery as a “primitive mode of accumulation”. In Britain, those forces created social movements that demanded the abolition of the entire institution of slavery, as proponents of free trade, such as Adam Smith (1776), insisted that free labour would accumulate capital more efficiently. Following the abolition of the slave trade, the British Government in 1823 enacted measures to “ameliorate” the conditions of slaverywhich continued in their colonies. Some of these measures were that slaves were to be given Christian instruction; Sunday markets were to be abolished, to encourage religious worship on that day; and marriages were to be encouraged; while slave families were not to be broken up by sale.

These measures were announced by the Governor of Berbice, but not by the Governor of Demerara. However, knowledge of these measures were gleaned by Jack Gladstone, a slave from Plantation Success, on the East Coast of Demerara, who, because of his profession as a cooper (barrel maker), could travel freely to Georgetown. He informed his father Quamina, who was active in the Church, where a Pastor, John Smith, had been sent by the London Missionary Society. Smith confirmed the amelioration measures, and this spurred Quamina and his son Jack to plan a rebellion to force their implementation. At no time did the leaders attempt to seize the colony, and in fact were very nonviolent to the planters.

As the eminent historian and Trinidad PM Eric Williams pointed out, “The revolt was so carefully and secretly planned that it took the planters unawares.” The historian Emilia Viotta da Costa, in her 1994 book Crowns of Glory, Tears of Blood: The Demerara Slave Rebellion of 1823, described the uprising well:

“The rebellion started at Success and quickly spread to neighbouring plantations. Beginning around six o’clock in the evening (of Aug 18), to the sound of seashell horns and drums, and continuing through the night, between 9,000 and 12,000 slaves from about 60 East Coast plantations surrounded the main houses, put overseers and managers in the stocks, and seized their arms and ammunition. When they met resistance, they used force. Years of frustration and repression were suddenly released. For a short time, slaves turned the world upside down. Slaves became masters, and masters became slaves. Just as masters had uprooted them from their traditional environment and culture, appropriated their labour, given them new names, forced them to learn a language, and imposed on them new roles, slaves appropriated their masters’ language and their symbols of power and property. Slaves spoke of laws coming out of England. They spoke of “rights”. They spoke of the king, Wilberforce and “the powerful men in England”. They used their masters’ whips and put their masters in the stocks. They broke doors and windows, destroyed furniture, and set buildings afire. They whipped managers and masters, stole their clothes and money, drank their wine. When whites fired at them, they shot back. By the middle of the night, the old African shells and drums were silent. Only the sound of European guns was heard.”

At Bachelors Adventure, 200 slaves were shot and killed by the militia when they refused to disperse, and later, the Government sentenced another 45 men to death, and 27 were executed. Quamina was hunted down and shot; Jack Gladstone was banished to St Lucia. But the spirit of freedom continued.

Gecom registration process is exceptionally smooth

Dear Editor, I have been one of the vigilant public-monitoring stakeholders who maintain a tracker on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) operations. This critical focus cannot be underscored, given the highstake demand for transparency and fairness for acceptable governance determination under the rule of law.

GECOM's role and obligations in conducting the elections of governing officials at the Local and National Levels are central to supporting our constitutionally enshrined democratic principles, and therefore ought not to be manipulated in the exercise of any unfair practice in favour of any specific interest group. Instead, our citizens expect the organisation to dutifully comply with the spirit and intent of the applicable legislation in executing its functions to ensure acceptable results of elections that are transparent and fair when completed.

The appropriateness of the preceding is relevant, given the known objectionable and characteristic behaviour of the PNC-led Opposition to achieve power by 'any means.' Our history of the PNC's involvement in conflicting elections matters, and their persistent attempts to create unfair advantages through clandestine manipulative influences, imbue their record concerning the many cycles of elections for decades.

Editor, it is noteworthy that the GECOM Continuous Registration Cycle currently

in process is attracting our citizens attention and responses. Many persons are visiting the GECOM offices around the country seeking to update their records by applying for transfers to ensure proper registration in their Local Authority areas.

At the same time, our qualifying youths are also remarkably busy getting their names registered to get their National Identification Cards. This process will enable GECOM to prepare an updated Register of Registrants to facilitate holding any election when necessary. It is equally essential for GECOM to be fully prepared to hold constituency elections whenever the circumstance necessitates the same. At the Local Authority levels, Municipalities, Neighbourhood Democratic, and Village Councils must replace councillors lost by attrition or any other means in order to maintain an influential representative position. The procedure includes bi-elections in some cases, and must be speedy and reflective of an updated voting population for fairness.

We must never forget the international risks associated with threats to democracy, since these conflict with the central pillar on which most countries share relations with Guyana. The world viewed the scenario as the PNC-led APNU attempting to impose itself upon the Guyanese people despite being aware that they had lost the March 2020 General and Regional Elections. Their criminal partners were corrupt GECOM officials, and after keeping their knees on

the necks of the Guyanese Nation for five months, they would not have budged without the intervention of and rejection by the international community.

One recognizes that the preceding undemocratic practices are rejected in most countries globally. Further, the realized obligations from treaties and agreements entered into by states are conditional on upholding democratic tenets. Naturally, contrary actions have resulted in decisive punitive deterring outcomes. One widely circulated example is the recent court cases in the United States of America concerning former President Donald Trump's attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 Elections. The Justice Department is now moving to hold him accountable for the unprecedented effort to block the peaceful transfer of presidential power and threaten American democracy.

Former President Donald Trump and many conspirators face legal consequences for their frantic but failed effort to cling to power.

The occurrences in Guyana are no different, and the concerned authorities must bring to justice those who held this nation to ransom for five long months. Our citizens know those charged and placed before the courts for electoral fraud are on the streets.

In contrast, the magistrates' courts appear to be dragging their feet on the trial, as if these treasonous breaches were minor offences.

They include former Chief Elections Officer

(CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, and former Region #4 RO Clairmont Mingo, who should not be walking freely on the streets because of their actions during those five long months.

The Riggers must be penalized because of the need for us to deter such activities and never experience rigging again in this country. The "riggers" and co-conspirators' actions are 'nauseating' and 'despicable.' Enabling our people to vote, counting, and certifying the results in any elections must always be transparent and accountable.

Those responsible at the level of the Judiciary should act to deter such recurrences, given the national impact and threat to civility. The Judiciary must never take such matters lightly.

The time is most opportune for this nation to call on the Judicial Service Commission to intervene and let justice prevail in our "Motherland." The courts must be able to function in the interest of our democracy. These fraud cases are before the magistrate courts for two long years, and there are too many unnecessary delays in ensuring the fraudsters answer for their alleged crimes.

I endorse the efforts of GECOM in the Continuous Registration cycle, and call on all qualifying citizens to get registered. In addition, the people of Guyana call on the Judiciary to act now in dealing with those charged with electoral fraud.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

Dancers performing at the commemorative ceremony for the Bicentennial Anniversary of the 1823 Demerara Revolt at the Georgetown Seawall on Friday (Office of the President photo)

Roger Forbes Luncheon – remember the name

Dear Editor,

There comes a time in the life of every nation when its history demands the presence of a figure who stands tall, well above the fray, with a commitment and will to lift the life of its citizens for generations.

Guyana found that man, that citizen, that patriot in Roger Forbes Luncheon. A medical doctor by training, Hamilton Green brought him back to serve this country.

He came back to his homeland with goodwill,

but soon found out that the Guyana he was promised was in the doldrums, with an economic disaster in motion, and the requiem for democracy already fully composed.

At the Reflections for the former HPS, on Friday night (8/18/2023) at the Arthur Chung Conference Center, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo went beyond the customary blazonries. He hailed Luncheon as a fighter against the politically connected criminal elements who were on a rampage

against the soul of this nation in the early 2000s, bent as they were on destroying the remaining strands of democracy that they had not yet wiped out.

This is not the place to repeat or recite all that Dr. Luncheon did for Guyana. The list is just too long, but even more, the people of the land already know his track-record, the dedication and love with which he served, and the indomitable spirit that was a call to life for all those around him.

Vice President Jagdeo

was visibly moved during his reflection on Roger Luncheon’s life and service. They had worked through some of the darkest days in the history of this country, days and days running late into the north of midnight, when humanity had fallen asleep. In a touching moment, Dr Jagdeo told the audience and nation how party comrades physically carried Luncheon up several flights of stairs to the top floor of Freedom House for PPP Ex-Co meetings.

Dr. Luncheon was 74

when he passed away, a comparatively early age in modern times, but especially so because he had so much more to give. He had already given beyond call and duty to building the institutional and cultural infrastructure of racio-ethnic bipartisanship. Now the seeds long set in the fertile soils of multiracial possibilities are contributing to the gathering momentum of the PPP as the only multiracial political force in Guyana. The best tribute one can pay to this great and humble man

is to follow his example. Be good, and work hard for a better country.

The nation stands today in mourning. Luncheon has left us, but he is not gone. N.K. Gopaul, a past Permanent Secretary at Office of the President, and who served with Dr. Luncheon on the Defence Board, commends these words on this occasion. “Do thou the deeds [he died] too young to do” (Matthew Arnold).

Sincerely, Dr Randolph Persaud

Youth Parliament 2023 – another peek into the future

Dear Editor, I have a few comments regarding the ongoing Youth Parliament, that is now a staple in local politics. I am happy that Kwame McCoy is still as zestful over it, as he was when in the fray as a participant.

First, it is common knowledge that political participation and civic engagement are important factors in youth development. These allow them to effectively learn about their rights, obligations, and responsibilities as citizens, through a range of engagement activities, which can serve as a foundation for their transition to adulthood. So, I am right behind the Minister Kwame McCoy, for timely stating that “Our Youth Parliament has always provided a forum for young Guyanese to develop and express their opinions on societal topics in a kind and positive environment, where they are all embraced, mentored, and provided a platform to debate and jointly brainstorm on the possible solutions to a wide range of current challenges.”

Let me further detail that the law-making bod-

ies are required to discuss various local, national and international issues and then make suitable laws on them. The members of these bodies present all points of views and try to represent all kinds of interests related to a problem. Eventually there is accommodation of various interests and a compromise decision is taken. An effort is always made to take such a decision as would please most and antagonise least.

As we all know, such decisions are frequently taken by Parliament. The decisions of Parliament are important since they affect the whole country. Each one of us is affected by the decisions of Parliament. The decisions are really the result of long drawn debates.

For conducting debates in Parliament, a detailed procedure of rules is followed. The rules are based on democratic principles. By these rules it is ensure that everybody gets a chance to be heard and a proper decorum is maintained in the course of discussion that goes on in Parliament. What is the conclusion? The earlier people are intro-

duced to this culture, then the better off ever one is. Kwame struck the nail in the head when he declared that “… your participation (the youths’) in Youth Parliament holds tremendous benefits. You take so much more back with you to your communities, homes, schools, and other parts of your life.”

Another consideration is that I think we all know in today’s world, the number and potential of youth in the demographic dividend are being considered as the driving force of state development. Therefore, the omnipotent policy position of the youth in important practices like democracy, expression of opinion, and active civic practice is essential. The younger generation, accounting for 4% of the world’s popula-

tion, and UNESCO Youth, predict that by 2030, about 78 million new young people will be added to the world population.

What this means is that Youth Parliament, now in its eighth year, will again get the chance to foster participants’ learning to recognise and respect different perspectives as well as becoming more confident in expressing their views publicly. This is very healthy for Guyana and is a wonderful omen.

My personal take is that Youth Parliament helps to stimulate the interest of young people in the welfare of their nation and promote a spirit of co-operation, understanding and goodwill among all, and to provide a non-partisan opportunity, through the parliamentary

process, to gain a practical educational experience in leadership, public speaking, and debate.

As Minister McCoy pointed out, “These are crucial skills, which are needed, with Guyana being in the midst of unprecedented accelerated growth in both oil and nonoil sectors.

The Minister expressed his belief that as this development continues, there are a number of young people committed and ready to seize available opportunities to make tough decisions and safeguard the country’s democracy. This democracy was under serious threat recently, making occasions like these so very meaningful. He explained that “We have in our midst young people who are able to formulate

plans for the participation in our oil economy, while championing the adaptation of modern approaches to traditional sectors of agriculture, health and education.”

This time around, some 86 young people are participating in Youth Parliament. They were selected from a series of debates held under the Speaker’s Youth Debating Competition throughout the country over the past few months. In terms of prepping the principals before the sittings, participants received mentorship and relevant information on the role of the Parliament, as well as public speaking skills. Auspicious indeed.

Yours truly, HB Singh

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY DOG

PHYSICAL CHANGES – vision, tooth and gum diseases

many elderly dogs coming into the Clinic exhibit a greyish or bluish haze on the lens - that part of the eye which the caregiver can actually see behind the pupil. This is due to the aging of the lens. (This condition has a technical name: Nuclear Sclerosis). Do not confuse this emergence with a cataract development, even though cataracts (as in humans) is not a seldom occurrence in dogs, (not often in cats). Your vet will make the differentiation.

Nuclear Sclerosis of Eye

Good news. Most dogs and cats tend to adjust well to a gradual loss of vision associated with old age, especially when

comes more susceptible to any and all agents of ailment and disease.

Oral hygiene is imperative in the elderly dog/ cat. Please do not panic when the vet advises, after professionally cleaning the teeth, that some (even many) of the loose teeth must be removed.

Last week, within the context of sensory failings and deficiencies associated with old age, we discussed deafness as a physical change. Let us today look at other physical alterations to the animal’s physical well-being as it grows older

LOSS OF VISION

It is indisputable that dogs and cats of either sex and age may be predisposed to blindness, which could be linked to infectious diseases, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, growths inside or

outside the eyeball, etc. Toxins (poisonous chemical agents introduced by caregivers and others) may also result in gradual or immediate loss of vision.

Before the caregiver takes the animal to the veterinarian, it should be ascertained whether the loss of vision is unilateral (symptoms exhibited only in one eye), or whether both eyes are involved.

Further, relative to the loss of vision in the elderly (or any) animal, the following should be ascertained:

* Is the loss of vision

sudden or gradual (over the past weeks/months)?

* Disorientation (occasionally or frequently, the animal bumps into objects, eg. furniture, within the house) and an inability to find objects (e.g. toys).

* Listlessness (not involving itself with the environment).

* Anxiety (uneasiness; uncertainty; lack of confidence in its mobility; or brooding fear about any new/unusual development in the home; apprehension resulting in trembling; etc.)

* Obvious vision defects in dim light; worse,

during the hours of darkness.

I should mention that

Good news. With proper treatment, pain and suffering and loss of appetite can be relieved. If the caregiver feeds canned food (some products are especially formulated and produced for elderly dogs and cats, and should be soon seen on our supermarket shelves), one can soften the meal even more by adding some water, therefore, producing a pap (soft or semi-liquid food). If the dog/cat is being offered hard, dry dog/cat food, soak it for about twenty minutes before offering the meal.

their hearing and sense of smell are functioning reasonably well. Usually, it is the caregiver who panics.

TOOTH AND GUM DISEASES (TGD)

I remember one of my professors dramatically pointing out that periodontitis (inflammatory process taking place in the oral cavity, including the teeth and gums) is the most common of all diseases in dogs. That may be so, and probably is. For sure, however, TGD is very common in elderly dogs, especially those which have not been exposed to constant veterinary care and dental hygiene. Obviously, this condition interferes with the animal’s ability to eat comfortably. Although it is a fallacy to believe that dogs chew (they just bite, chomp a bit, then swallow), any oral ailment would make the consumption of food difficult. Consequently, the animal eats less, and begins to lose weight, and be-

On the market, there are dry biscuits which help to reduce tartar and calculus (and other deposits) on the teeth. We have spoken to importers of pet products to introduce these foods for elderly dogs and cats.

Tartar build-up on dog’s teeth

Having documented the facts in the previous paragraph, it would be remiss of me, after so many decades of encounters with elderly companion animals, not to mention that dry unsoaked dog/cat biscuits with bone (powder or chips) content should not be given to the older dog/cat, because the resulting stool (faeces) becomes hard, leading to bowel motility difficulties (compaction/constipation) when the animal tries to defaecate. The important role of nutrition of elderly animals cannot be overstated given their inability to optimally process and digest food and eliminate the end product. This will be discussed in a future “Pet Care” article.

Field Development Plan for Whiptail to be submitted in October – Routledge

…as Exxon execs address Guyanese stakeholders, diaspora in London

Last week, the University of London’s Chancellor Hall hosted a seminar that brought together experts and stakeholders from both Guyana and the Guyanese diaspora, to discuss the country’s oil and gas industry.

Oil giant ExxonMobil was represented at the event by Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) President Alistair Routledge. He not only revealed that Guyana’s annual earnings from the sector will increase to US$10 billion by 2030, but that the company intends to submit its Field Development Plan (FDP) for its sixth project, Whiptail, in October 2023.

“We now have sanctioned five major developments… those cumulative-

a massive investment for the country. They will, we anticipate, deliver by the end of this decade an order of magnitude of US$10 billion a year of revenue to the State.”

“We gave you some numbers. The number that I will anchor on is that 1 million barrels per day of production

plan to the Government in October of this year,” Routledge explained.

At the same time this development is happening, the Exxon executive reiterated that the company is a partner in Guyana’s development. According to him, this makes Exxon obligated to ensure it makes a positive impact in Guyana and this is evidenced from the inflows of revenue into Guyana’s coffers and local content opportunities. According to him, all proceeds from the oil industry that are earmarked for Guyana, go into the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), where the Government has since been spending it on the country’s development.

of billions of dollars to the country.”

“But there’s a big gap between discovery of resource, defining the concept, development, making the investment, translating that into revenue, then the Government taking those funds, investing in roads, infrastructure, bridges and hospitals and healthcare and the people of the country seeing the benefits through that.”

plications of Guyana’s expanding oil and gas sector, the event brought together luminaries from various fields and experts from both the private and public sectors in Guyana and the diaspora.

to Dr Khan, “the discourse, combined with networking opportunities, reinforced the idea that our collective efforts are the cornerstone of Guyana's prosperous future. It was a productive evening that forged meaningful connections.”

ly amount to an investment commitment of well in excess of US$40 billion. You’ll probably appreciate the Government’s budget is [only] a tenth of that. So, it’s

by 2028. That reflects six projects… the five already sanctioned and the Whiptail project is the one we’re working on right now. We plan to submit a development

“So exciting times. A lot of development that’s founded on the Stabroek Block. But what we’re very cognisant about in this partnership is that the people of Guyana have now heard that we’re rich. We’ve discovered over 11 billion barrels of oil and that that is worth tens

The seminar, titled “Navigating a Changing Guyana: Pathways to Prosperity in the Era of Oil and Gas,” came about through a partnership between the Guyana Business Journal, Caribbean Policy Consortium, Guyana SPEAKS, and the Guyana UK Social Development Association (GUSDA).

Convened to engage, enlighten, and explore the im-

During the seminar, panel discussions were held and critical insights into the opportunities and challenges in the oil and gas sector were explored. In addition to Routledge, the panellists included former Minister of Foreign Affairs and now Guyana’s agent in the Venezuela border controversy, Carl Greenidge, Guyana’s former Ambassador to the United States, Dr Riyad Insanally; Digital Marketing Executive, Dr Rosh Khan; Dr Juanita Cox and Faizal Khan.

The forum also allowed opportunities for networking and collaboration. According

Meanwhile, Dr Terrence Blackman, the event’s host, and facilitator, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome and added that it was a step in the right direction when it comes to including the diaspora.

“This event underscores the importance of proactive dialogue in shaping Guyana’s future. With vast opportunities on the horizon, it’s imperative that we ensure a holistic and inclusive approach to harnessing the potential that the oil and gas sector promises, not only for Guyana but also for our extended diaspora,” he said.

Group photo of the panellists; Sitting (L to R): Michele Small, Allistair Routledge, Terrence Blackman, Juanita Cox. Standing (L to R): Riyad Insanally, David Roberts, Orin Alexander, Faisal Khan, Carl Greenidge, Rosh Khan, Rod Westmaas, John Mair, David Lewis

EEPGL President Alistair Routledge during the seminar

Celebrating…

…African culture

One thing we’ve got to get out of the way is: when we speak in Guyana - or the Caribbean - about “African” culture, we have a greater legitimacy to do so because our African citizens were brought from all parts of West Africa – from Angola in the south to Senegal in the north. This includes the Congo, Ghana and Nigeria, just to mention some of the more popular names. So, we can immediately appreciate that, while in Africa - even within what we call Ghana today - there are dozens of ethnic groups or tribes. During the hundreds of years of enslavement, those cultural differences were homogenized as the Whites tried to grind their culture out of them in totality.

But what’s not appreciated enough is that, AFTER the Abolition of slavery in 1838, there were over 13,000 Africans brought directly from Africa, and transported to Guyana to work as Indentured Immigrants!! That’s right –not as slaves, but as indentured servants - to drive down the wage aspirations of the freedmen and women – just like the other indentureds!! So how were they brought?? Well, after the Brits abolished the slave trade in 1807, and gave emancipation in 1838, other countries, such as Brazil and Cuba - which continued with slavery - kept on shipping their African “cargo”. The British Navy was assigned to patrol the coast of West Africa and intercept these slave ships.

The “liberated” Africans were sent generally to Liberia or Sierra Leone, from where they were persuaded to emigrate to the West Indies. One unintended consequence of this latter arrival, when African cultural practices weren’t seen as a threat, was that after the Indentured Africans were distributed to plantations in all three countries, they became the nucleus and catalyst for the flowering of African culture.

Among the new arrivals were Igbo, Kalabari, Mende, Temne, Mandinka, Yoruba, and above all, West Central Africans such as Kru and Congolese.

If we were to map the areas where there are more significant expressions of African Culture, you can bet that some of the new arrivals were settled there in greater numbers – like in Bagotville on the West Bank. After their Indentureship, some returned to Sierra Leone, but, like other Indentureds, most remained. They gravitated to African villages and bought lands, where their immigrant drive for economic improvement soon made them exemplars.

Some African cultural retentions have spread in the wider Guyanese populace in the kinds of food we eat. While we may think of foo-foo and conkie, let’s not forget that the entire repertoire of “ground provision” dishes, from soups (including metemjee) and “boiled and fried”, are of African provenance!!

So, on the 200th anniversary of the 1823 Rebellion, let us all celebrate this African Heritage that is now “ours”!!

…and climate change

While your Eyewitness had been prepared - through the reports in the press – he’s still shocked to read that rice and sugar production has declined recently!! Moreso for sugar! Imagine half of our two major agricultural crops – which employ more than half of our workforce – under threat!!

While the strike of the sugar workers at Rose Hall has been in the news – let us be reminded of their suffering since the vicious action of the PNC to close those 4 factories after 2015!!

We can’t afford to lose rice. Most folks don’t realise that the vast majority of rice farmers – actually paddy farmers – cultivate plots of less than 5 acres - from which they barely eke out a subsistence existence. So, if they reap substandard harvests, it means starvation time for them and their families. So spare a thought for them, shall we?!

If the Government’s serious about diversifying into agriculture for “food security” for the region, we gotta start with these rice farmers!

…and reversions

Wasn’t it a wonderful sight to behold so many people garbed in their African clothes?? Was a time when to wear them was seen as “backward” – but thankfully, that’s all in the past!! Ethnic pride!!

Liza Field Development Plan

Further 10-year extension being contemplated to ensure gas supply – VP …will only apply to gas-producing wells, not entire block

Earlier this year, ExxonMobil’s amended Liza Field Development Plan (FDP) was reviewed by the Government. The plan was amended to allow for the gas-to-energy project, and according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, extending the life of the project by a further 10 years is being considered.

During his most recent press conference, Jagdeo spoke about the extension of the Liza Phase One project and clarified that it is in Guyana’s best interest to ensure the project cycle is extended, since this is where the gas is coming from to power the gas-to-energy project.

“There is one extension that we’re contemplating. It is to extend the life of the project by 10 years. There’s a simple reason for that. Whether you do technical or financial analysis, there is a necessity to move this project to supply the gas to over 20 years. The project cycle is a 20 years cycle. It would be longer,” Jagdeo said.

“Right now, when the project is completed in 2025 or so, they will only have 12 more years on the permit. So that means 12 more years for Liza to operate, to supply gas. We need that well to supply gas for 20 years at a minimum. So, we have an interest in extending that, not just Exxon. So that’s all that’s happening now.”

During a press conference, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton had been critical of the Government’s decision to allow the postponement of Exxon’s relinquishment of 20 per cent of the Stabroek Block until next year.

But Jagdeo questioned whether the Opposition really understood the factors that led to this, since the Force Majeure clause in the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) dictated Exxon be granted an extension due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I don’t think they understand. That’s the problem with Norton. He thinks we’re extending the overall permit for the Stabroek Block. We’re not extending the entire Stabroek Block permit. We’re extending only the permit for the well that is producing, that FPSO that’s producing the gas for the Wales project.”

“Now, because we’re not extending the Stabroek Block, they have certain relinquishment provisions that will kick in. So that is what will happen next year. Next year, they have to relinquish 20 per cent of the Stabroek Block, as per our law,” Jagdeo explained.

Back in April, Jagdeo had said that the review of the FDP for the Liza proj-

ect had been completed, thus allowing for an extension of the Liza licence. The gas-to-energy project is set to come on stream by 2024, but the Liza permit will expire in 2037. Since the gas project has a 20-year lifespan, the Liza licence needs to be extended to at least 2044.

United Kingdom-based Bayphase had assisted Guyana with Exxon’s proposed amendments to the

Liza FDP in order to facilitate the gas-to-energy project. While work has already started for the project, Exxon, which is investing over US$1 billion to build out the pipeline and assorted infrastructure, has not yet made its Final Investment Decision (FID).

President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge had said in May that the drafting of the FID requires formalizing all the detailed

documents, such as the FDP and revisions for the Liza fields – both Phase One and Two – thus making sure that all of the commercial agreements are in place, as well as ensuring that there is sufficient length of the project life to provide the gas to support the project.

The scope of the much-anticipated project features the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in

the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil. The pipeline would be 12 inches wide and is expected to transport per day some 50 million standard cubic feet (mscfpd) of dry gas to the NGL plant, but it has the capacity to push as much as 120 mscfpd. Based on studies conducted, Exxon would be able to produce up to 50 million cubic feet of gas per day for

this initiative without impacting oil production activities offshore. The multibillion-dollar transformational project, being piloted by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government (PPP/C), also includes the construction of an integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD). (G3)

Descendants of slave owner to visit Guyana to offer formal apology

As the University of Guyana gears up to launch its International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies, the descendants of a slave owner, John Gladstone – who enslaved over 2500 persons during tumultuous times – will be coming to Guyana to offer a former apology.

The University and the Guyana Reparations Committee invited members of the Gladstone family, part of a heirs of slavery grouping, to participate in the event since Quamina and his son John, who led the 1823 rebellions were enslaved on Gladstone plantations.

The University itself is founded on plantation lands upon which part of the revolutions were enacted.

“The Gladstone family, which includes several

historians have today confirmed that they will in fact offer an apology given the role their ancestors would have played here,” UG shared in a statement.

An inter-generational dialogue between UG students and youthful members of the Gladstone family; a linking of the University of Guyana Library with digital archives of the Council of World Missions are some of the initiatives to be taken.

On Saturday, the UK Guardian reported that £100,000 will be donated to set the research department at the University of Guyana.

“The money is not coming from a single fund –each family member is making a contribution,” it added.

One of the descendants, Charlie Gladstone, shared

that when he learned about John Gladstone’s involvement in slavery he was moved to tears.

“I felt absolutely terrible. I really, really hated it. It was a shock and I felt absolutely sick,” Gladstone is quoted in the British newspaper.

John Gladstone is the father of William Gladstone - four-time British Prime Minister. After the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act 1833 by the Parliament of the United Kingdom, he received the largest of all compensated emancipation payments made via the Slave Compensation Act 1837 for the loss of his slaves.

Gladstone proceeded to expel the majority of the newly emancipated freedmen from his plantations and imported large numbers of indentured

servants from British India as part of the Indian indenture system.

The University of Guyana will launch its International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies in collaboration with the National Reparations Committee and Heirs of Slavery, on Friday.

The Diaspora and Migration Centre is set up to pursue five specific areas of research interest including Diaspora and Migration in and around Academia, Youth, Technology and Vulnerable communities, Indigeneity, Indentureship and Slavery as specific and integral aspects of dispersion.

The research track for slavery and indentureship is the reason why it was deemed appropriate to launch the Diaspora

and Migration Centre (MiDias) in this historically auspicious month in regard to the emancipation of enslaved peoples as well as the 200th anniversary of the 1823 slave revolution in Demerara.

“The University has been collaborating for several years with sev -

eral universities and the Guyana Reparations Committee on specific aspects of impacts of the plantations’ enterprise of slavery and indenture as well as indigeneity on native populations, including relations being experienced today,” UG said in a statement.

John Gladstone enslaved over 2500 people

…to support UG’s research with £100,000

Stop blaming the “other”

In the wake of this year’s commemoration of Emancipation Day, there have been several panel discussions and symposia organized by African Guyanese activists to discuss “the African-Guyanese condition”. I have emphasised that each of the groups in Guyana have their own narrative of their history, and these discussions and presentations illustrated the narratives of African Guyanese. As with other narratives, they directed fingers of blame to the “other”, signalling they are conflicted in valued areas of national endeavour.

Dev

We need to consciously construct a “national narrative” that would give each group in our country their just desserts. Narratives are stories plotted to make sense of our lives, and our need to create them appears to be wired into our brains. An event occurs – say, the elections contretemps at Ashmins - and we are driven to explain how or why it did. What happened first…what followed? Who were the persons involved? What did each person do, and what were their choices? What were the background circumstances – social or physical – that might have brought the event about? In a word, we want to know about “causation”.

But, in the creation of narratives, since very few of us are in a position, or have the inclination, to conduct rigorous enquiries from ground zero, we reflexively also resort to narratives that others might have constructed around similar events. In a word, we fall back on our “remembrances” – whether at the individual or collective level. Narratives, then, are not only constituted; they are constitutive as far as they “explain” our experiences. Much of what we are fighting about can be described as “memory wars”.

In accepting there must be some factual historical truth “out there”, we should appreciate we have to be careful to filter out, as best as we can, the inherent subjectivities of all narrativesespecially when they concern history “writ large”. We must begin with an agreement on the objective facts that should constitute “history”. However, while reality may be created by events and processes, our experience of that reality is the “remembrance” of it; that is, “our-story/narrative”.

History and remembrance are not the same. History is the chronicle of that reality as collated by historians, but it is our “remembrance” of the events that structure our responses.

Why is it, we should ask, that the PNC/APNU/AFC coalition supporters justify Mr Mingo’s interference with the tabulation of the Reg 4 SOPs because of the claimed subsequent recount “anomalies” uncovered? Mingo’s stipulated power of divination has to do with the narrative used to “explain” the experience. African Guyanese have a historical fear of being ‘swamped and subordinated” by Indian-Guyanese when the PPP wins elections via their votes. And justify manipulations such as Burnham’s and Mingo’s to “rectify” that advantage. To assert that IndianGuyanese are now one minority in a nation of minorities, in which either of the two major blocks have an equal chance of securing office through attracting votes outside of their base constituency, does not cut much ice.

Today, we and all those who would examine our history have the advantage of hindsight and access to a wider array of accounts than those who lived through the events. In attacking the possible illusions of retrospective determinism – that “there is no alternative” - we should connect the past with the present in a broader, more unified narrative that is healing, rather than destructive. We cannot change the past, but we can certainly shape the future.

John Paul Lederach, the “International peacebuilder”, defines constructive social change as “the pursuit of moving relationships from those defined by fear, mutual recrimination, and violence toward those characterized by love, mutual respect, and proactive engagement.” If not love, let us at least have mutual respect to listen to the narrative of the “other” and address their fears. We must recognize the complexity of relationships and eschew the us-vs-them mentality as we “generate, mobilize, and build our moral imagination” by creating links between memory and vision. Don’t we all have a vision of a future peaceful and prosperous Guyanese community?

By shifting the meaning of the past through a differential emphasis on particular events, we can transform how we act in the present. That past may not literally exist - any more than the future does - but it lives on in its consequences, which are a vital part of it. Our past was certainly not all hate or division.

Ravi

RESPONDING TO ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES

With Guyana’s rapidly expanding development taking place across all sectors, it is critical that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) be equipped and trained to effectively respond to environmental emergencies, in order to reduce environmental impacts and risks to human health. In order to effectively respond, the EPA has developed Guidelines for Environmental Emergency Response, and has trained approximately 60 per cent of its staff in the Incident Command System, while another fifteen persons have been trained in Shoreline Cleanup Technique.

Additionally, the Agency has invested in a vehicle and environmental monitoring equipment to aid effective response.

According to the United Nations Environment Program, an environmental emergency is a sudden-onset disaster or accident resulting from natural, technological, or human-induced factors, or a combination of these factors, that causes or threatens to cause severe environmental damage as well as harm to human health and/or livelihoods.

In accordance with the EP Act, Cap 20:05, the EPA responds to environmental emergencies, and would also provide technical support to sister agencies responding to environmental emergencies, including the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.

Given the EPA’s mandate to oversee the effective management, conservation, protection, and improvement of the environment; and to prevent or control pollution, it is our responsibility to respond in an operational role for environmental emergencies. Technical advice is provided before, during, and after emergencies to the Government, industry, and the community through scientific, engineering and regulatory expertise, on the environment and impacts to health from pollution caused.

Besides the major benefit of providing guidance during an emergency, developing a plan has other advantages. During emergency response, discoveries of unrecognized hazardous conditions that would intensify an emergency situation can be addressed to eliminate them. The planning process often highlights or pinpoints challenges such as the lack of resources, (equipment, trained personnel, supplies, etc.) or items that can be corrected before an emergency occurs. In addition, an emergency plan promotes safety awareness and shows the organization's commitment to the safety of its workers.

As probability of the occurrence of an emergency is often high, preplanning is necessary. A well-thought-out, well-organized emergency response plan would help to eliminate these issues. An urgent need for rapid decisions, shortage of time, and lack of resources and trained personnel can lead to chaos during an emergency.

Time and circumstances in an emergency mean that normal channels of authority and communication cannot be relied upon to function routinely. The stress of the situation can lead to poor judgment, resulting in severe losses.

The CDC has developed a number of plans to respond to environmental emergencies, including the Guyana National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (August 2020), Flood Preparedness and Response Plan, and Disaster Risk Management.

Environmental emergencies that have gotten the EPA’s attention during the past year and to date include tailings spills, chemical spills, fuel spills, and a suspected oil spill. Other emergencies include bird strikes and fish kills, as well as spinoff incidents from natural hazards, eg an earthquake, damaging an industrial facility, which in turn releases hazardous materials.

The EPA’s Emergency Response System (EERS) has two designated telephone numbers that members of the public can dial to report environmental emergencies and request the Agency’s response. The EERS will be operational daily on a 24 hours system. The numbers designated for the EERS are 592-2255469, 592-623-4594, and 592 623-4614. As part of this system, the Agency has designated officers who are specialized and prepared to respond to specific environmental emergencies, eg. fish kills, chemical spills etc.

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

GT Mayor ready to work with Govt for city’s development

…wants to rid division between PPP, APNU Councillors

Newly-elected Georgetown Mayor, Alfred Mentore is seeking to bring a fresh approach to governing and executing the city’s business – one which will shift to bipartisan support and greater collaboration between both Government and Opposition Councillors.

Speaking during a recent broadcast interview, the new Mayor noted that recently-elected People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Councillors were offered positions on key committees to share their input. Based on the results of the recently-concluded Local Government Elections, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is occupying 19 seats on the Council while the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has 11.

“We’re more magnanimous in our approach to looking at things differently. We offered significant positions to both sides of the aisle so that we can have contribution that is meaningful where the best ideas win and move forward,” he noted.

While recognising that both sides have failed to collaborate over the years in the best interest of the city’s affairs, Mentore is hoping for a turnaround in this approach.

“We’re open to all sides, working with Central Government in delivery service at the level of the city and the level of this administrative arm. My approach will be one of building consensus, building stronger relations with Councillors on all sides.

As I believe, bipartisan support and cooperation is very important for the development of the city and nation as a whole.”

“This is the way we should go and this is the way we should approach business and having a new way of treating with matters of the Council and the citizens’ business. They did not place us here because they want us to be divided. They placed us here because they want us to work,” he maintained.

Despite not securing the confidence of his constituency at the Local Government polls, Mentore of APNU was elected to serve as Mayor of Georgetown. Representing Constituency Four (Lamaha Gardens, Newtown, Campbellville, Section K Campbellville & Bel Air Park) in Georgetown, he lost to the candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Alfonso Fidel De Armas-Archbold by 31 votes.

However, he has served two terms on the City Council and is also the former Deputy Mayor. He had also expressed his support for the livestream-

ing of all City Council meetings, in the interest of transparency, an idea that was put forward by the PPP.

He was quoted saying, “I personally will support and I’m sure whenever we meet as a Council, we would like to support the livestreaming of these meetings for the civility of these meetings, for the transparency of these meetings…people must understand this Council ain’t got nothing to hide.”

Denise Miller was elected Deputy Mayor. The other Georgetown Councillors are De Armas-Archbold, Tahirih Adams, Odayson Ashby, Bishram Bipat, Jewula Caesar, Aileen Chalmers, Patricia Chase-Green, Kibwe Copeland, Eslyn David, Jason David, Rudolph Dyal, Trowes Ellis, Yvonne Faguson, Dexter Forte, Gregory Fraser, Troy Garraway, Winston Harding, Clayton Hinds, Mohamed Isfehani, Steven Jacobs, Robert Maison, Jeffon Muhammad, Leon Saul, Kesha Satimo, Jai Singh, Phagoo Singh, Kyle Solomon and Dion Younge. (G12)

Demerara Revolt “tipped the scales of history” in favour of freedom – Pres Ali

Marking two centuries since the 1823 Demerara Revolt, President Dr Irfaan Ali has acknowledged that this anniversary sends a strong reminder of Guyana’s history, built on heroic resistance and the struggle against inhumanity.

He made these remarks at the commemorative ceremony for the Bicentennial Anniversary of the 1823 Demerara Revolt on Friday afternoon.

“A sombre reminder that our nation’s history involved centuries of heroic resistance and rebellion against the atrocities of colonial rule…The callous, cruel, cold-blooded killings of enslaved Africans and subsequent hangings and beheadings that followed the revolt stand as haunting reminders of the depths of inhumanity that confront our African ancestors,” the Head of State voiced.

The 1823 Demerara Rebellion was the first massive slave uprising in Demerara, British Guiana. It broke out on Monday, August 18, 1823, and involved an estimated 11,000 to 12,000 enslaved people from about 55 plantations on the East Coast of Demerara, from Liliendaal to Mahaica. Starting from

Plantation Success and trickling down, it was the largest in Guyana’s history.

Defenceless, many innocent African lives were taken by the colonial masters. More than 200 died before the revolt ended, with 72 facing trials and 51 sentenced to death. Some 33 were tragically executed.

This uprising was an attempt by Africans to gain their freedom from an oppressive, authoritarian system that characterised the plantation economy in British Guiana. This year marks the 200th anniversary of this and led to them winning their full emanci-

is now part of our history, who we are as Guyanese and as a nation.”

According to him, the 1823 Monument stands a memorial to those who gave their lives for freedom.

“A grateful nation must never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom. We salute the indomitable spirit of those who dared to lift the forbidden banner of freedom…That freedom was not a privilege that was handed down but it was earned through the blood, sweat and exertion of our ancestors. It is freedom we must never take for granted,” Ali expressed.

pation on August 1, 1838.

President Ali added that the history of a free and independent Guyana is built on the sacrifices during the revolt, first from slavery and later, colonial rule.

“The sacrifices of the martyrs of the Demerara Revolt were not in vain. The revolt helped tip the scales of history in favour of freedom. The echoes of the revolt and brutal oppression reached the British Parliament. This triggered reforms which eventually led to first apprenticeship and the formal abolition of slavery. The history of the 1823 Demerara Revolt

Plans for the rebellion began on August 17, 1823 at Plantation Success and was led by Quamina and his son, Jack Gladstone. During the revolt, Quamina called for peace to remain but his pleas fell on deaf ears and the slaves rebelled the following day.

After that day, while the revolt had ended, many of the rebels were hunted and killed. Two hundred of them were beheaded while 16 were lined up to be hanged. Gladstone was sent to St Lucia and Quamina was traced and killed in September, 1823.

(G12)

President Ali delivering his address at the 1823 Monument

9 Guyanese awarded scholarships to pursue studies in China

Atotal of nine Guyanese have been awarded the opportunity to pursue post-graduate and under-graduate studies in China at various universities numerous disciplines including finance, veterinary medicine, international economy, trade, civil works and art.

During an award ceremony held on Friday, the Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Guo Haiyan highlighted that since the bilateral culture agreement was signed between China and Guyana in 1984, the Chinese government has provided some 222 scholarships to Guyanese students thus far and will continue to do so in the years to come.

Haiyan added that with Guyana’s economy growing fast, the country would require a large number of quality workforce. She added that by the end of this year, some 56 persons will be trained in China through various courses.

“Guyana has embarked on the fast development track and embraces great historical opportunities it is in dire need of a large number of quality workforce. Education and training are always important elements of cooperation between our two countries. Since the signing of the bilateral culture agreement in 1984, the Chinese government has provided about 220 scholarships to Guyanese students and also organizes a variety of bilateral and multi-lateral training courses,” Haiyan said at the awards ceremony.

Additionally, the Manager of Scholarships Division at the Public Service Ministry, Deomattie Seeram encouraged the awardees to take advantage of the opportunities given and use it to foster relationships with peers and other

individuals.

“This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. This scholarship serves as a recognition of your potential and talent and I’m confident that you can make the most of this opportunity. Remember that this scholarship is not just financial support but also a responsibility and a privilege. Use this opportunity to expand your knowledge, broaden your horizons and make valuable connections with peers from all over the world” Seeram encouraged.

She added “Take full advantage of all the resources, support, and guidance that will be available to you in China. Remember to stay focused but also take time to explore and enjoy the new environment. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement. Make Guyana, your loved ones, and even yourself proud.”

Meanwhile, the Acting Director of the Department of International Cooperation within the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, Candida Daniels added that the government of China has been instrumental in the development and capacity-building efforts of our country through many scholarships and training programs.

“I wish to take this opportunity to express sincere gratitude to the government of the People’s Republic of China for awarding these scholarships to our well-deserving Guyanese students. Scholarships and other training programs from our development partners such as the government of China continue to be an invaluable contribution to the capacity-building efforts of our country. The government of Guyana and China have em-

barked on a number of projects and signed numerous agreements and these projects have aided and continue to aid in Guyana’s development in various areas,” Daniels remarked.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, one of the scholarship recipients, 25-yearold Chabeeraj Francis who will be pursuing his studies in Clinical medicine for the academic period of 2024 -2029 noted that the scholarships are not just financial aid but is it the embodiment of the commitment of both countries to foster educational advancement and nurture young minds.

“The scholarship nomination we have received is not merely a financial aid but a beacon of hope and an affirmation of our potential to make a difference. In this journey of academic pursuit, we are reminded of the tireless efforts put forth by the Chinese embassy and the Ministry of Public Service in fostering educational advancement your unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds through scholarships is an embodiment of the profound friendship between our nations.” Francis shared on behalf of others.

This year, six scholarships are provided by China’s central government through China Scholarship Council and three are provided by Jiangsu provincial government. The scholarships are for a variety of academic disciplines ranging from studies in medicine, civil engineering, trade, finance, and art.

Last year a total of twelve Guyanese were awarded scholarships to study in China in areas such as International Trade and Economy, Applied Psychology, International Politics, and Medicine among others.

Chinese Ambassador Guo Haiyan standing with the scholarship recipients and other officials at the awards ceremony

E-bikes’ registration

Traffic ranks engaging public on use to ensure road safety

With the regularisation of electric cycles (e-bikes) coming into fruition, Traffic Chief, Superintendent Dennis Stephen has said that the

Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been engaging with e-bike users on road rules and safety.

Following the passage of several amendments to the Motor Vehicles and

Road Traffic Bill in the National Assembly in May, e-bike users are now required to follow the same rules as motorcyclists on the road and carry the relevant documents to use

the roadways.

Last month, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) began registering these e-bikes at the Licence Revenue Office, Lamaha Railway Embankment, Camp and Lamaha Streets, and Integrated Regional Tax Offices (IRTOs) countrywide.

Stephen noted that the GPF is working alongside GRA to facilitate this process, observing that e-bike users at large have been cooperating and registering their vehicles.

Meanwhile, Traffic ranks are carrying out a lecture series on the rules of the road and what is required of e-bike users to be on the road safely and legally.

“The e-cycle must be registered, you must have a driver’s licence, you must have a certificate of fitness to ensure your cycle is fit to be on the road and insurance to cover you in case of an accident,” Stephen said.

“As it relates to other information, we’re educating them on how to use the road. In Guyana, we drive on the left-hand side and overtake on the right-hand side so all motor vehicles drive on the left-hand side,” Stephen said.

He added that this public awareness campaign is being carried out the most in Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), given their prevalence of e-bikes.

Since 2021, Stephen stated that there have been over 13 road deaths and over 27 serious injuries emerging from road accidents involving e-bikes.

The introduction of electric bikes into Guyana’s roadways have been met with significant concern and backlash from members of local law enforcement.

In November 2021,

Assistant Superintendent Raun Clark, Officerin-Charge of Traffic in Region Six had taken issue with the fact that there was no law the Traffic Department could enforce against the users of those cycles, and that there was a lack of age limit for their use.

Similarly, earlier this year, Divisional Traffic Officer of Division 4A –(Georgetown), Deputy Superintendent Timothy Williams expressed that the use of e-bikes would require the creation of policies that would need to be

strongly reinforced to cater to those road users.

Meanwhile, several e-bike users had previously taken to the streets at Blairmont, Region Six, to protest the regularisation of this mode of transportation that they deemed was cost-effective and greatly helped them in their daily lives.

Protesters had expressed that since the e-bike does not have an engine, a licence to use it was unnecessary, while others stated that since they were among the first to purchase these bikes, the registration fee should be waived for them.

In response, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had stated that a common concern was that of road safety and as such, engaging persons to register their e-bikes was not intended to be a revenue-generating measure but one to ensure safe travels of all road users.

“These bikes are not ordinary bikes; they are like motorbikes without pedals. When they are on public roads, they are silent because they are electric bikes. So, we must ensure the safety of both the riders and others on the road,” he had said.

Electric bikes

Traffic Chief, Superintendent Dennis Stephen

Guyanese woman stabbed by drunken man in Suriname

A20-year-old Guyanese woman is currently hospitalised after being stabbed in the chest by a drunken man at a bar in Meerzorg, Suriname, on Sunday.

While the woman’s name was not provided, Surinamese Police have reported that the suspect, while at the bar, suddenly initiated a fight with the young Guyanese woman. During the altercation, he broke the bottom of a beer bottle and used it to inflict a stab wound on the victim.

Upon receiving reports of the stabbing, law enforcement officers from the Meerzorg Bureau promptly arrived at the scene. They discovered the victim lying on the blood-stained floor. She was immediately attended to and rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.

Further investigations

into the incident revealed that the suspect was intoxicated at the time he committed the stabbing. The Police said the intoxicated state of the suspect was evident, as he struggled to articulate his words at the scene.

He taken to the Police station and after he had regained sobriety, the Police said the suspect was formally charged.

Only a few months ago, a Guyanese woman, Lisa Charran, 32, was stabbed to death by her husband in Suriname.

According to a Waterkant news agency report, a Police report said preliminary investigations revealed that Charran’s 10-year-old daughter was watching television with her sister and brother when she heard her mother screaming. “She went to the screams and on that occasion, she saw how her stepfather, Dani J, inflicted several stab wounds on her mother with a sharp object,” the report said.

The suspect subsequently fled the scene.

Guyanese presents working paper to American Accounting Association

the Financial Management Committee of Cricket West Indies Inc. He also is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Guyana.

General Manager of Skeldon Energy Inc, Dr Brian Sukhai earlier this month presented a working paper at the American Accounting Association’s (AAA) Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado, which focused on the relationship between financial misconduct, firm value and participation in earnings management.

A working paper is one in which tentative figures, memoranda, data, or analyses of accounts are set down during the conduct of a survey (as an audit) of a

business.

The presentation of the document was done at the conference which was themed “Sustaining our Profession,” exploring opportunities for accounting and the academy to shape the future.

The feedback received at the conferences is currently being used to further refine the manuscript with the intention of having same published in a top-quality academic journal.

Dr Sukhai is also treasurer of the Guyana Cricket Board and sits on

Dr Brian Sukhai during his presentation at the conference

“I grabbed my daughter and we both fell” – mother recalls horrifying experience of home collapsing

…now living in 6x8 zinc structure

Amother of one and her daughter have been forced to live in a small zinc structure measuring six feet by eight feet. This is after their Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice home came crashing to the ground on Wednesday night.

After living in the building for eight years at the Cow Dam Street, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice (Region

$1.1B Region 2 treatment plant to service over 5000 residents

Strides to modernise the current water infrastructure have continued with a whopping $1.18 billion treatment plant at Onderneeming, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), that is slated for completion in April 2024.

The new plant will serve more than 5000 residents from Taymouth Manor to Supenaam, Essequbo Coast.

The project is funded Government and executed by Toshiba Water Solutions, which specialises in providing turnkey services in water and wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal.

Guyana Water Inc (GWI) Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh on an inspection visit to the project site on Friday was impressed with the work done thus far by the contractor. The project is currently 30 per cent complete and every effort is being made to deliver it within the completion deadline, said Toshiba Water Solution Project Engineer, Amit Singh. Also on the Essequibo Coast, potable water will be a reality for Capoey residents as the drilling of a well in the area has been completed. Very soon, some 200 residents of the community will be receiving potable water for the first

time. This news was met with relief by residents, who previously had to fetch water from the lake and then to the hill top.

On Saturday, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame Mc Coy; Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and regional managers of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) also engaged in discussions with the residents of Yarrowkabra, Kuru Kururu and Soesdyke.

“The Government of Guyana has made significant strides towards fulfilling its commitment to provide access to potable water for all residents. An especially noteworthy aspect of this commitment is the emphasis on addressing

water accessibility challenges in communities along the Linden Soesdyke Highway,” GWI shared.

For years, the communities of Yarrowkabra, Kuru Kururu, and Soesdyke have grappled with difficulties in accessing clean and safe water. Recognising the urgent need for intervention, GWI and the Ministry of Housing and Water have undertaken a mission to tackle these issues.

“Through strategic initiatives, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships, the lives of the residents are being positively transformed, underscoring GWI's commitment to fostering a healthier and more prosperous future for all citizens of Guyana,” a statement from the utility company added.

Miner, wife nabbed with 943 grams of ganja

Agold miner and his wife were taken into Police custody on Saturday morning after the cops found 943 grams of marijuana at their Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara home.

The discovery was made during a raid, carried out between 06:00h and 07:00h, in the Plaisance, Better Hope, and Vryheid’s Lust villages on the East Coast of Demerara in search of guns, drugs, ammunition, and wanted persons.

During the exercise, a search was carried out at the Lot 1 Sparendaam home of a 31-year-old gold miner, and his 31-year-old wife.

According to the Police, ranks found a plastic bag that contained 12 Bamboo

The ganja that was found in the duo’s home

(a paper used to wrap the cannabis), a quantity of transparent zip lock bags and two transparent plastic bags containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

Police said the items were shown to the two occu-

Five) home, Kamlawattie Ramnauth said she is still hoping to have her house rebuilt.

The 31-year-old single parent, in recounting Wednesday night’s experience, said it was a frightening one, noting that before the building crumbled, there were strange sounds that caused her to become afraid.

According to Ramnauth, it was after 22:00h when she and her eight-yearold daughter were preparing for bed that she heard strange sounds.

“I hear something knocking on the house but when I looked outside, I didn’t see anything but something told me to pick

up the cutlass but then I decided to just lock the door and didn’t worry to get the cutlass. As soon as I bolt the door, I hear things going more hard and then the house started to go down and I grabbed my daughter and we both fell.”

She said she escaped with a minor injury to her

wrist while her daughter was unhurt. However, the woman, who makes a living selling plantain chips, egg balls, and other foods around the village, said they could not immediately get out of the building because the doors could not open.

pants of the home but they denied ownership.

They were both arrested and placed into custody at the Sparendaam Police Station, where the marijuana was weighed and amounted to 943 grams.

(G9)

Kamlawattie Ramnauth

Works are progressing on the new water treatment plant for Onderneeming

8

to vie for Miss Universe Guyana

...pageant returns to Guyana after 6-year absence

Eight young ladies will on September 2, grace the stage at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown with the aim of gaining the judges’ nod and being crowned Miss Universe Guyana.

The winner of the Miss Universe Guyana pageant will move on to compete at the Miss Universe international pageant in El Salvador on November 18, 2023.

The prestigious pageant will be returning to Guyana after an 6-year hi-

atus.

The local pageant is being organised by a new franchise holder. USbased and award-winning pageant director Teri Brown-Walker has been named the new Miss Universe franchise holder for Guyana.

Those that are expected to grace the stage at the Marriott Hotel are; Colline Ward, Miss Bartica; Mackella Profeiro, Miss DemeraraMahaica; Chandini Baljor, Miss Essequibo Islands-West Demerara;

Lieve Blanckaert, Miss Georgetown; Melissa Mc Lean, Miss La Parfaite Harmonie; Britny Mack, Miss Pakaraima; Lisa Narine, Miss PomeroonSupenaam and Anika Felicien, Miss Rupununi.

In a release, the franchise holder said the judging panel of experts will judge these incredible queens in several challenging categories: interview, swimsuit, evening gown and final question round competition. They will be looking for qualities on how well they

Man attacked while sleeping stabbed to death

…Venezuelan woman confesses to murder

Hours after a confrontation at a drinking spot, a man identified only as “Sunny” was stabbed to death while sleeping.

Reports are that sometime between Thursday night and Friday morning at Kumung Kumung Backdam, Puruni River, in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), the man was stabbed to death.

According to Police, at about 23:00h on Thursday night, the man was in the company of two female Venezuelan nationals and others imbibing at a shop when he approached one of the females and requested to dance with her.

The woman declined his advances, which caused him to become annoyed, and he held on to her but she pushed him off, and an argument ensued between them.

According to witnesses, the

female then broke two bottles and threatened “Sunny”.

Persons at the shop attempted to calm the situation, but “Sunny” began to behave disorderly and assaulted two of the men trying to subdue him. The two men, in turn, dealt him several cuffs and lashes about his body. He was later taken to his camp in an intoxicated state and, sometime after, retired to bed.

However, at about 06:00h on Friday, the female Venezuelan was allegedly seen running from Sunny’s camp and he was later discovered bloody, lying motionlessly in his hammock.

The Police were summoned and an examination of the body revealed one stab wound on to his upper left side chest, two stab wounds were below his left armpit, and one to his upper left side back.

Following the discovery, a 23-year-old woman of Puerto Ordas, Venezuela, who had the altercation with “Sunny” was arrested.

Police also arrested two miners who was involved in the fight with “Sunny” at the shop.

Meanwhile, during interrogation by detectives at the Bartica Police Station on Saturday, the 23-year-old woman admitted to stabbing the victim with a retractable knife that she had in her possession.

She told Police that “Sunny” had attacked her earlier in the night when she refused to dance with him at a shop in Kumung Kumung. She said she went to his camp later that night, where she saw him lying in a hammock, and dealt him three stabs about his body. (G9)

The contestants for the Miss Universe Guyana pageant

demonstrate authenticity, credibility, and exhibit grace under pressure.

Miss Universe is one of the most-watched pageants in the world, with

an estimated audience of over 500 million viewers in over 190 territories.

“I grabbed my daughter...

“After the verandah fell and the entire house fell. When the house fell down, the door opened and then we got to come out.”

She said neighbours ran to their rescue and she spent that night at a neighbour’s home and the following day she got assistance to construct the shack using six zinc sheets to make the three walls, leaving one side open for exit and entry.

Ramnauth said she is grateful for any assistance that persons may want to offer her to rebuild.

“I am hoping to just

to have to sleep here two days more until somebody comes and help me to repair the house,” she added.

Persons who may

FROM PAGE 23

wish to make contact with Ramnauth can do so by telephone number 592-652-1780. (Andrew Carmicheal)

EU energy, agri, tech companies to explore opportunities in Guyana

…as trade mission slated for November

AEuropean Union (EU) trade mission is scheduled to visit Guyana in November of this year, with a wide range of companies from renewable energy and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to health and other sectors coming along to seek local opportunities.

Last week, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met with EU Chargé d’affaires, Joan Nadal Sastre. During the meeting, GCCI’s Executive Management Committee (EMC) discussed collaborating for the upcoming trade mission scheduled for November 20 to 22.

The meeting was held at GCCI’s boardroom, where GCCI President Kester Hutson, was present along with Senior Vice President Richard Rambarran, Junior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar, and Secretary Kathy Smith.

GCCI Trade and Investment Officer, Faith

Trim was also present. Representing the delegation, Sastre was accompanied by Consultant Taiana Mora, and the EU Delegation Programme Officer, Latoya Williams.

According to the statement, the trade mission will comprise of approximately 30 to 45 companies from Europe. Some of the other sectors that will be represented in the trade mission are logistics and construction, digitisation and timber production and agriculture.

“The businesses that will be part of the mission will be seeking to establish partnerships with local counterparts. Sastre and the executives discussed other types of sectors that should be included in the delegation, and ways in which the delegation can work alongside with the Chamber to create linkages between businesses on the two sides,” the GCCI stated.

Guyana has long been recognised as an attractive investment destination. With a projected growth rate of 37.2

per cent for 2023, Guyana is expected to continue its trend this year, of outpacing every other Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) country when it comes to economic growth. Additionally, the nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has almost tripled in the space of two years, moving from $1.1 trillion in 2020 to $3.1 trillion at the end of 2022.

Guyana has also recorded the highest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows in the Caribbean. The United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) “Foreign Direct Investment in Latin America and the Caribbean” 2023 report stated that Guyana recorded FDI inflows for 2022 totalling US$4.389 billion. It is a similar result to the record inflows in 2021. All in all, Guyana played a critical role in the overall 55.2 per cent rise in FDI in the Caribbean - a historic rise.

According to the report, the rise in FDI project announce-

ments in Latin America and the Caribbean was mainly a result of a higher number of projects in Guyana, Mexico, Brazil, and Panama. In Guyana’s case and the Caribbean in general, companies from the United States were responsible for a significant chunk of these investments.

However, there has been a push for the EU to increase its investments in Guyana. During Europe Day celebrations in May of this year, EU Ambassador to Guyana Rene Van Nes had said that an EU/Guyana business chamber will be set up to help both European and Guyanese companies navigate their respective markets.

Prior to that, it had been reported that Helena König, who is the Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service, would visit Guyana to help fast track the setting-up of a fully-fledged EU-Guyana Chamber of Commerce. Guyana already has Chambers of Commerce with the United States of America (USA), Canada, the United Kingdom (UK) and Ghana.

Meanwhile, a pressing issue for Guyana in its relations with Europe is the setting up of a local Schengen visa processing office. For some time, concern has been expressed that visas for Guyanese to travel to the EU still have to be processed in Suriname at

the Netherlands Embassy. President Dr Irfaan Ali had initial discussions on Schengen visa-free travel during his recent attendance at the European UnionCommunity of Latin American and Caribbean States (EUCELAC) Summit 2023 in Brussels, Belgium. Specifically, he held such talks with Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Tanja Fajon. There was some success on this front, however, as it was announced last month that at least five European Union (EU) countries had agreed to sponsor Guyana’s bid for Schengen visa-free travel. (G3)

From left; EU Chargé d’Affaires Joan Nadal Sastre, Consultant Taiana Mora, GCCI President Kester Hutson and Junior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar at their meeting last week

Around the World OIL NEWS

Seven killed, 129 wounded in Russian missile strike on Ukraine’s Chernihiv

Rig count decline accelerates amid rising US crude oil production

The total number of active drilling rigs in the United States fell by 12 last week, according to new data from Baker Hughes published Friday.

The total rig count fell to 652 last week. So far this year, Baker Hughes has estimated a loss of 136 active drilling rigs. This week’s count is 54 fewer rigs than the rig count at the beginning of 2019 prior to the pandemic.

The number of oil rigs fell by 5 last week to 520, down by 101 so far in 2023. The number of gas rigs fell by 6 to 117, a loss of 39 active gas rigs from the start of the year. Miscellaneous rigs fell by 1.

The rig count in the Permian Basin stayed the same—18 rigs below this same time last year. The rig count in the Eagle Ford also stayed the same, and is now 19 fewer than this time last year.

Primary Vision’s Frac Spread Count, an estimate of the number of crews completing unfinished wells (which is cheaper than drilling new wells), fell again this week. The frac spread count rose to 262 in the week ending August 11, up from 257 in the week prior. The frac spread count is 4 more than where it started the year.

Crude oil production levels in the United States rose for the second week in a row, to 12.7 million bpd in the week ending August 11, according to the latest weekly EIA estimates—the highest production levels according to weekly data since 2019. US production levels are now up 500,000 bpd versus a year ago.

At 11:10 pm ET on Friday, the WTI benchmark was trading up US$0.90 (+1.12%) on the day at US$81.29—down roughly US$2 per barrel from this time last week. The Brent benchmark was trading up US$0.69 (+0.82%) at US$84.81 per barrel on the day—down about roughly US$2.40 per barrel from a week ago. (Oilprice.com)

Canada wildfires: British Columbia declares emergency as 15,000 households told to evacuate

About 15,000 households have been ordered to evacuate in Canada’s British Columbia, as firefighters battle raging wildfires that have set homes ablaze.

Officials said a “significant” number of buildings caught fire in West Kelowna, a city of 36,000 people, and more than 2400 homes were evacuated.

A state of emergency has been declared for the entire province, where hundreds of separate fires are burning.

Hundreds of miles north, a huge fire edges towards the city of Yellowknife.

An official deadline to evacuate the city - the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories - lapsed on Friday. A local official said later that day that nearly all residents had left, either by car or plane.

About 19,000 of the

Seven people including a 6-year-old child were killed and 129 wounded when a Russian missile struck a central square in the historic northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv, the Interior Ministry said on Saturday.

People had been on their way to church to celebrate a religious holiday when the strike took place, the Ministry said. Of the 129 counted as wounded in the search and rescue operation, 15 were children and 15 were Police officers, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said in a Telegram post.

“A Russian missile hit right in the centre of the city, in our Chernihiv. A square, the polytechnic university, a theatre,” President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who was on a working visit to Sweden, posted on Telegram.

“An ordinary Saturday, which Russia turned into a day of pain and loss,” he added.

A short video accompanying Zelenskiy’s post showed debris scattered across a square in front of the regional drama theatre,

Rescuers walking next to the drama theatre as they work at a site of a Russian missile strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Chernihiv, Ukraine August 19, 2023

where parked cars were heavily damaged. The video also briefly showed a body slumped inside a car.

Ukrainian media reported that a public event featuring drone manufacturers had been taking place inside the theatre at the time of the attack. Both sides in Russia’s 18-month-old invasion have widely used drones on the battlefield.

Chernihiv is a city of leafy boulevards and centuries-old churches about 145 km (90 miles) north of the capital Kyiv.

Bolsonaro’s legal woes mount as Brazil Police probe his finances

The roof of the neoclassical theatre was torn off by the strike, which also blew out doors and windows in neighbouring apartment buildings and store fronts.

The streets were stained with blood trails and strewn with scraps from first-aid supplies that had been used to treat the wounded.

Russia has attacked Ukrainian cities far from the frontline with missiles and drones as part of the fullscale invasion it launched in February last year. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Shoot-out occurs near Ecuador candidate Sonnenholzner day before vote

Ashoot-out erupted on Saturday near a restaurant where Ecuadorean presidential candidate Otto Sonnenholzner was eating with his family, Police and the candidate said, though the violence was not directed at him.

Ecuadoreans head to the polls on today to elect a New President and legislature after a campaign clouded by the assassination of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio 10 days ago.

“We just suffered a shootout in front of the place where I was breakfasting with my family,” Sonnenholzner, a pro-market candidate and former Vice President said on X, previously called Twitter. “Thank God we’re all well but we demand an investigation into what occurred.”

A video on social media showed Sonnenholzner greeting a supporter in a sunny

restaurant in Guayaquil and preparing to take a selfie, before shots sound outside.

The National Police said in a press conference the shoot-out was the result of a chase after a robbery in an exercise clothing store and that five people have been arrested.

Sonnenholzner has hardened his discourse around crime since the murder of Villavicencio, repeatedly promising his supporters that should he be elected, criminals who use violence against citizens will be shot by Police.

Fellow presidential candidate Daniel Noboa on Thursday said there was an attack on his campaign caravan in Duran, but Police later said the shooting was not directed at Noboa, son of prominent banana businessman and former presidential candidate Alvaro Noboa. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Niger coup: ECOWAS delegation meets deposed President, junta leader

city’s 20,000 inhabitants had evacuated, the territories’ Environment and Communities Minister Shane Thompson told reporters.

“Some are choosing to shelter in place. If you are still in Yellowknife and you are not essential to the emergency response, please evacuate,” Thompson said.

He warned that the highways and airport could be impacted by the wildfires.

In British Columbia, evacuation orders grew from covering 4000 homes on Friday afternoon to about 15,000 in the space of an hour. Another 20,000 homes are under alert.

Premier of the province, David Eby, said that evening that the situation had “evolved rapidly” and officials were braced for “an extremely challenging situation in the days ahead”.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro faced mounting legal pressure on Friday, as Police probed his personal finances and communications while a jailed former aide mulled testifying about his role in a Rolexpeddling scheme allegedly masterminded by the ex-President.

Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, narrowly missed re-election last year when he lost to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brazil’s most fraught vote in a generation. Bolsonaro’s baseless claims of electoral fraud culminated in his supporters’ Jan 8 invasion of Government buildings, and his legal troubles have multiplied ever since.

The former President has faced a congressional inquiry surrounding the Jan 8 insurrection and multiple Police probes overseen by the Supreme Court. At least two of his close allies who spoke with Reuters this

week wondered if he may soon end up behind bars.

“Clearly, the circle is closing,” a Supreme Court source told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

In the latest development, Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes authorised investigators to access confidential phone and bank records of Bolsonaro and his wife Michelle, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday. The ruling, first reported by local media on Thursday night, will give Police greater ability to investigate the multiple allegations of wrongdoing Bolsonaro faces.

On Thursday morning, in a televised congressional probe into the Jan 8 insurrection, a computer programmer told lawmakers that Bolsonaro last year asked him to tamper with an electronic voting machine to undermine faith in the electoral system. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Adelegation from West Africa’s regional bloc ECOWAS met Niger’s ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and held talks with junta leader General Abdourahmane Tchiani.

A plane carrying the delegation landed in the capital Niamey at about 1pm (12:00 GMT) on Saturday, a day after the bloc’s military chiefs said they were ready to intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum.

Niger’s governing military council confirmed the arrival of the ECOWAS representatives, headed by former Nigerian leader Abdulsalami Abubakar.

The group was allowed to meet Bazoum, the first time foreign officials have seen the ousted leader in weeks.

A previous ECOWAS delegation led by Abubakar earlier this month tried and failed to meet Bazoum and the coup leader.

The West Africa representatives also met with Tchiani on Saturday, though

there was no information as to what was discussed.

ECOWAS delegates came to Niamey and joined efforts by United Nations Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, Leonardo Santos Simao, who arrived on Friday, in trying to facilitate a resolution to the continuing crisis.

On Friday, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Simao would meet the military rulers and other parties to try and facilitate a swift and peaceful resolution to Niger’s crisis.

On August 10, ECOWAS ordered the deployment of a “standby force” to restore constitutional rule in the country.

The soldiers who overthrew democratically elected Bazoum in July have quickly entrenched themselves in power, rebuffed most dialogue efforts, and kept Bazoum, his wife and son under house arrest in the capital. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro talking with media upon his arrival at Brasilia International Airport, Brazil June 30, 2023

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)

CANCER

Concentrate on being your best. Make exercise your focus, and refuse to engage in risky activities. Make the right decisions, and you’ll be happy with how things turn out.

Connect with people who have something to offer. The insight you receive will help you redirect your skills and make a bigger impact. Think big, but don’t go overboard.

Make alterations at home that are conducive to stress relief. Relaxing will help you recognize what’s important to you and how to simplify your life while focusing on what matters most.

Use your intelligence and drive, not emotional manipulation, to get what you want. A well-thought-out plan will make it easier to protect your reputation and convince others to follow you.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Don’t skip a beat. Decide what you want, and don’t stop until you reach your destination. Keep your eye on your target, and refuse to let anyone get in your way. Aim to simplify your life.

Learn from your mistakes. Put safeguards in place before you make changes to how you handle your cash or deal with agreements. Try to get whatever you want in writing to avoid complications.

Emotions will surface if you agree to a joint venture. You are better off spending time and money on something that boosts your confidence, qualifications or skills. Put yourself first.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Take a closer look at how your position, reputation or partnerships will be affected by the decisions you make. Paint a clear picture for those who will be affected by your plans, and compensate for anything that may inconvenience others before you begin.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22Jan. 19)

AQUARIUS

(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

You’ll face confusing information that disrupts your plans. Distance yourself from sensitive situations or anyone who tries to manipulate you. Observation and communication will be key.

Put emotions aside and concentrate on verifying information before making a move or defining what or whom you want to pursue. Put a foolproof plan in place.

Review money matters and agreements, and think about how to entice others to see the value in your pursuits. An investment will add value to something you already possess.

Roll with the punches. Use charm to grab attention if you want others to take you seriously. A partnership with someone quite different from yourself will have its benefits. Discuss the possibilities.

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

Pickles

RHT and RHC to play in RL Construction BCB U15 final

The Area ‘H’ Ground will come alive today, Sunday August 20, when the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) hosts the ultimate game of its 2023 RL Construction Under-15 Tournament.

This tournament commenced earlier in the year with 18 teams participating. Rose Hall Town (RHT) Farfan and Mendes team advanced to the finals after defeating Bath, while Rose Hall Canje crushed Cotton Tree by a massive 184 runs in the other semi-final game.

Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes team would be led by national player Sohail Mohamed, while the visiting Rose Hall Canje team would be spearheaded by Adrian Hetmyer. Mohamed would be supported by

Tameshwar Deonandan, Raffel McKenzie, Moonish Rampersaud, Aakash Sooklall, Dev Seepersaud, Leon Reddi and Kumalchan Ramnarace.

The Rose Hall Canje team would be led by Richard Ramdeholl, while Luke Amsterdam, Adil

In the match in which Rose Hall Canje defeated Cotton Tree by 184 runs to advance to the finals, play took place at the Jai Hind Ground in Canje, and the RHCCC amassed 203 all out in 47.5 overs. National U13 vice-captain Richard Ramdehol top scored with a delight ful 95 not out, and Luke Amsterdam contributed 26. Ramdehol was left unbeaten after he ran out of partBowling for Cotton Tree, David Alfred took 3 for 45, Fayad Gafoor took 2 for 31, and Arif Bacchus took 2 for 24. In response,

first-time semi-finalists Cotton Tree CC were shot out for a paltry 19 runs

scored from 8.1 overs, as medium pacers Adrian

created havoc. Heytmer claimed 4 for 6 from 4.1 overs, while took 4 for 12 from 4 impressive overs. The tournament is being sponsored by Rondall Lewis of the RL Construction Ltd.

Guyana girls to play in tri-nation tournament instead of CONCACAF U17 Qualifiers England have to play “game of our lives” against Spain

Guyana’s U17 Girls

National Team will not participate in the August Concacaf Girls U17 qualifiers, but will instead focus on an U17 Girls TriNation Football Tournament involving Suriname and French Guiana.

The GFF has officially informed Concacaf of its decision to opt out of the Women's U-17 Championship qualifying competition slated for August 25th to September 2nd, and will now focus its resources in participating in the Tri-Nation tournament.

Guyana’s U-17 Girls commenced training a few weeks ago, and are confident of performing well against both Suriname and French Guiana.

The GFF has said it remains committed to “ensuring our national players are given opportunities to represent Guyana internationally”.

According to the GFF, full details of the Tri-Nation tournament will be re leased soon.

Guyana’s U17 Girls National Team will not participate in the August Concacaf Girls U17 qualifiers, but will instead focus on an U17 Girls Tri-Nation Football Tournament involving Suriname and French Guiana.

The GFF has officially informed Concacaf of its decision to opt out of the Women's U-17 Championship qualifying competition slated for August 25th to September 2nd, and will now focus its resources in participating in the Tri-Nation tournament.

Guyana’s U-17 Girls commenced training a few weeks ago, and are confident of performing well against both Suriname and French Guiana.

The GFF has said it remains committed to “ensuring our national players are given opportunities to represent Guyana internationally”.

According to the GFF, full details of the Tri-Nation tournament

England have to "play the game of our lives" if they are to win the Women's World Cup, says captain Millie Bright.

The European champions face Spain in Sunday's final at Stadium Australia, with the game kicking off at 11:00 BST and being shown live on BBC One.

Both teams are in their first Women's World Cup final, with England chasing a second major trophy in 13 months, having won Euro 2022 on home soil last summer.

"It has been players' dreams for years," said Chelsea defender Bright. "We have got a game plan that we have to go out and execute. Everyone knows how big this is. We know how passionate our nation is back home, and how much they want us to win.

"But for us, there is a process. We need to play the game of our lives. It's important our process remains the same. Mentality-wise, everyone is super-excited to get out there and put a show on."

Bright, who was named captain for the tournament following injury to Arsenal's Leah Williamson, said it will be an "honour" to become the first woman to lead England out in a World Cup final.

"It's massive, but it's massive for the team. It's 'we' before 'me’. It's a huge privilege

England have lost just once in 38 games under manager Sarina Wiegman

and honour. It will be the biggest moment in our careers. Nothing is individual," said Bright.

"It's a dream come true to be in the World Cup final. Leading the girls out is a special feeling," she said.

Asked what her younger self would have thought at the prospect, the 29-year-old added: "She would have probably said, ‘You were being silly’, and, ‘It was never going to happen’, but I guess dreams come true. We are finally getting a shot at the trophy, like we always wanted. It's so much more than just playing football.”

England's success on a global stage has led to increased support, growing viewing figures, and record attendances in the past year.

Manager Sarina Wiegman said it is "incredible what happens" when they do well

at major tournaments.

"We have felt support here, but also from the other side of the world, in the UK. That is something that you dream of," said Wiegman. "We just hope we play our best game ever, and that everyone who is watching in the stadium and in the UK also can support us and enjoy it. It's really exciting, and of course we are really eager to win it.

“This shows how football unites; it brings people together. When you go so far in the tournament, people get excited. It's very special. It's so much more than just playing football," she said.

Bright also reflected on how far the game has come, and how the Lionesses have bounced back from a ban which started in 1921 and lasted almost 50 years, wherein women were prevented

from playing football in England.

"It shows our [mental] strength. We never want that to happen again. We have been very open about that, and we wouldn't let that happen again," said Bright. "To know we're in a World Cup final is incredible. We don't want to stop here, and we're always pushing for more."

“It was not our space” Spain centre-back Irene Paredes said "it was not our space" in football for many years, but they have the opportunity to showcase themselves in the World Cup final.

"Spain has always been a football-loving country, but it was not our space; or at least that's how they made us feel," added Paredes. "We want to play football, and [those who came before us] pushed, so they invested more in women's football. We have the opportunity to play in a final of a World Cup. It is the time to enjoy it, and do what we've been doing up to now -- which is, to play football." Manager Jorge Vilda, who dismissed questions regarding unrest within the Spain camp following a dispute among players and the nation's football federation, is expecting a "tactical match" against England. (BBC Sport)

Adrian Heytmer

Sohail Mohamed

–Captain Millie Bright

Archibald advances to semis after brilliant opening day

Guyana’s premier sprinter Emanuel Archibald got the country’s athletics World Championships’ campaign off to a perfect start on Saturday morning with a win in the Men’s 100M preliminary round.

Archibald looked comfortable and clocked 10.27s for first place in the preliminary race, ahead of Hungary’s Bence Boros who clocked 10.70s and Kin Wa Chan of Macau who clocked 10.79s.

As such, the Guyanese speedster moved on to Round 1 of the event, where he raced in Heat 7 of as many Heats.

In the Heat, Archibald clocked 10.20s to tie with Japan’s Hiroki Yanagita for third place. With the top three finishers in each Heat moving on to the semifinal, both Archibald and Yanagita have secured their spots in the next stage of the competition. Archibald will compete in today’s semifinal,

set for this afternoon.

Heat 7 was won by South Africa’s Akani Simbine, who crossed the line in 9.97s, with USA’s Christian Coleman clocking 9.98s to finish second. Guyana’s other competitor at the Games, Aliyah Abrams, will be in action in Heat 5 of today’s Women’s 400M event.

The Championships began in Budapest, Hungary on Saturday August 20, and will run until Sunday, August 27th.

2023 RBL CPL match between TKR and Patriots washed out

GFF M-FAP donates football gear to 11 villages

…for participation in Upper Mazaruni District Games

The third match of the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (RBL CPL), which would have been contested between St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and Trinbago Knight Riders at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in St Lucia, has been washed out.

Only three overs of play were possible before the downpour started at 10:20h on Saturday, August 19,

and play did not resume after that interval. TKR were at the crease, and the score was 19-1 in three overs. In that time, Martin Guptill had got to 11 runs from 15 balls after a very slow start, but was eventually cleaned up by birthday boy Sheldon Cottrell, after surviving a Blessing Muzarabani scare in the previous over.

Cottrell had figures of 1-10 from 2 overs, and Muzarabani returned fig-

ures of 7 runs without loss from one over before the heavens opened. Mark Deyal and Chadwick Walton were left stranded at the crease with 2 and 1 run respectively.

The fourth match of the RBL CPL 2023 was set to be contested between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and home side the St Lucia Kings on Saturday evening from 19:00h. They were to battle for top honours.

Triple-header at GFC

The closing rounds of the Georgetown FA Senior Men's League (SML) will continue today with a triple-header at the GFC ground at Bourda.

The one-round League competition has now been reduced to eight teams after internal problems within Camptown FC resulted in 3 games being forfeited, forcing the GFA to take the necessary action of removing Camptown from the SML.

Today's fixtures, beginning at 3pm, will pit bottom-placed team Order and Discipline - on 3 points from 5 games - against 4th placed Vengy FC, who are on 10 points from 5 outings. The 2nd encounter, slated for 5pm, will feature lead-

today

ers Beaconson 15 points - in search of theirutive win against 6th placed GFC - who are on 7 points after 6 matches. The final match, at 7pm, will bring together 3rd placed Pele FC - on 10 points after 5 games - and 5th placed East Veldt - on

same points from 6 matches, but with an inferior goal difference.

Beacons FC, seemingly on course to capture the title, have Vengy and 2nd placed Riddim Squad to play, and should they continue in the same vein, would attain the unassailable maximum 24 points. Wins in the remaining 2 games for the Mocha-based unit, who also have Black Pearl to confront, can take them to 18 points.

Pele or Vengy, on 10 points each, can steal the title if Beacons win today and thereafter lose both of their remaining matches, and either side win their remaining 3 games, including today's games.

Managers of the 11 village clubs participating in the Upper Mazaruni District Games in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) have last week received cones, balls, bibs and hurdles from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) through its groundbreaking Members Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP).

Over the last two months, the GFF has donated millions of dollars in cash and football gear to its Regional Associations, clubs and villages as part of its drive to ensure the continued promotion of football through successful tournaments held across Guyana in August.

On August 15, managers representing Kako, Wax Creek, Phillipai, Imbaimadai, Jawalla, Kamarang, Waramadong, Paruima, Kaikan, Araw and San Juan villages received gear to be used during training sessions to better prepare the players participating in the August 13-20 Upper Mazaruni District Games.

“We continue to distribute football gear across the country through M-FAP, to ensure that players are prepared for competitions which ultimately lift the level of the game,” GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph shared.

The Upper Mazaruni District Games are held annually over several days in Region Seven, and feature athletes in various disciplines, including football, archery, athletics, swimming and volleyball. The football competition is the main sport of the Games.

GFF has sent its congratulations to the organisers of the Games, and wishes all participating villages a memorable few days of healthy competition.

GFF President Wayne Forde launched M-FAP in 2020 with the full approval of Congress. The objective is to provide support to the Federation’s members under four pillars: Administration and Operations, Equipment and Material, Competition and Technical Development, and Infrastructure Development.

Emanuel Archibald (C) pulling ahead of the competition in the preliminary round

GFF Representatives and recipients displaying some of the equipment donated

Items being handed over

Rain forces no-result in Guyana Amazon Warriors’ opening match

By Brandon Corlette in St luCia

The groundsmen at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground had an extremely long day at the office, as rain dominated proceedings in match four of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (RBL CPL).

This encounter was the first match for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, as they were playing hosts St Lucia Kings.

In a reduced affair, Warriors posted 56-2 in their allotted five overs, and then the rain returned to force a no-result. Each team has been awarded one point.

Despite the rain, the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground was packed almost to capacity, and the Guyanese were out in their numbers to see the Warriors in action.

St Lucia Kings had won the toss and opted to bowl first. Warriors left out Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Ronsford Beaton, Matthew Nandu and Hazratullah Zazai.

The match started at 9:30pm, and was reduced to

10 overs per side. The power play consisted of three overs, and five bowlers were allowed to bowl a maximum of two overs each.

Five balls into the reduced game, the rains returned at 9:35pm with Warriors on 4-0. Chandrapaul Hemraj was on three not out and Saim Ayub was yet to get off the mark. Chris Sole, the Scottish speedster, was too hot to handle for Ayub, who was struck on the body before the rain.

The match was then reduced to five overs, and restarted at 10:15pm after the rain interval. Neither

overs.

Hemraj (04) was then caught at long-on off a sliding Roston Chase with the Warriors score at 14-1.

Ayub was then innovative in his strokeplay as Warriors reached 30-1 in three overs.

Azam Khan came at number three and was in shotgun mode. He slammed Alzarri Joseph for a massive six over backward squareleg, and never looked back.

Warriors were 49-1 in four overs, and debutant Jair McAllister was given the responsibility to bowl the final over. He was breathing fire and bowling over 140kph in an over that produced seven runs and the wicket of the dangerous Khan, who made 24 from 11 balls.

Ayub was unbeaten on 24 from 16 balls. Sole bowled for 22 runs, and had one wicket in his two overs, while Joseph went wicket-less for 26 runs in his two overs.

After five overs the rain returned, and the hardworking groundsmen were busy again.

Hemraj nor Ayub was fluent in their stroke play, and Warriors were 12-0 in two

The tournament will continue at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground today, Sunday August 20, with two matches. Jamaica Tallawahs will play Barbados Royals at 10:00h, and Kings will play Patriots at 19:00h. Warriors will play Patriots in St Kitts on August 24.

Fans were out despite the rain

Ayub looked dangerous on debut Roston