Guyana Times -Sunday, September 17, 2023.pdf

DDL nets $2B after-tax profit in 2023 half-year report

The Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Group has recorded a Profit After Taxation of $2 billion in its mid-year report for the period ending June 2023.

Chairman of the local beverage giant, Komal

Samaroo commenting on the 2023 Interim Report, said the taxed profit represents an increase of 11.1 per cent when compared to the $1.8 billion recorded during corresponding period in 2022.

Revenue for the year was $15.72 billion compared to

$14.17 billion recorded in the interim period last year – reflecting an increase of approximately 11 per cent.

According to the Chairman, this improvement was attributed to an increase in the Group’s domestic revenue by 15 per cent, while

revenue from the international market increased by 5 per cent.

Profit before Taxation for the period was $2.71 billion compared to $2.44 billion recorded in the previous year, also representing an increase of 11.1.

port.

Nevertheless, Samaroo remains hopeful that international markets will improve in the second half of this year as the Group continues to work to maximise all opportunities within its control.

During this reporting period, the DDL Chairman outlined that implementation of several major projects continued, while several others are at the planning stage.

“The impact of these projects will be beneficial on the Group’s results in future years,” he stated.

In his report as Chairman, Samaroo said the international economic situation this year still remains uncertain. He pointed out that the war in Ukraine continues unabated with its concomitant negative effects of price escalation on food and energy supplies. European economies, he added, continue to experience high inflation resulting in increasing interest rates, as central banks struggle to rein in such economies.

While shipping costs have somewhat improved,

Samaroo also used the opportunity to recognise the ongoing commitment of staff and commend their hard work which contributed to these results. He also expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors for their continued support, advice and guidance.

For the 2022 financial year, the DDL Group recorded a total after-tax profit of $5.3 billion, alongside a turnover of $31.4 billion – results that came despite global crises, the ramifications of which were felt even in Guyana.

Back in March of this

the DDL Chairman said input costs in his company’s production processes remain high and supply chains are yet to regain normalcy.

Additionally, Samaroo noted that the effects of global warming are being felt worldwide. In recent months, record high temperatures in several parts of the word have caused major fires – resulting in persons having to abandon their homes. In other parts of the world, unusually heavy rainfall has caused catastrophic floods – disrupting millions of lives.

The Chairman posited that the influence of global warming in the world must now be a central economic consideration.

“These circumstances have had the effect of slowing the rate of growth of our sales in the European and North American markets. Both are key markets for our branded as well as bulk alcohol products. Export sales in the first half of this year achieved marginal increase compared to the same period last year,” the DDL Chair detailed in his half-year re-

year, DDL signed a US$22 million loan with the International Development Bank (IDB) investment arm. Samaroo had noted the need for the Group to commit more resources to its working capital at a time when it plans to step up the pace of expansion.

“Based on projects currently at various stages of implementation and planning, across the Group, we estimate over the next three years to commit in excess of US$100 million for capital projects. The loan agreement will provide the resources required to fund projects in pursuance of the diversification strategy of the Group and the transition to renewable energy,” Samaroo had stated.

Meanwhile, the Chairman had mentioned other initiatives that DDL will be implementing for their staff, including the setting up of a medical centre, intensifying and expanding training, and pursuing the procurement of house lots for staff in need, with the relevant authorities. (G8)

DDL Chairman Komal Samaroo

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, Sep 17 – 05:30h – 07:00h and

Monday, Sep 18 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Sep 17 – 05:15h – 06:45h and

Monday, Sep 18 – 05:50h – 07:20h.

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 thundery showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 25 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 17:53h reaching a maximum height of 2.71 metres.

Low Tide: 11:31h and 23:47h reaching minimum heights of 0.55 metre and 0.47 metre.

Draft gas strategy to be completed in 2 weeks – VP

…welcomes Exxon exploring for gas at Haimara well

relinquish it.”

According to the Vice President, it is important that these gas wells are available in case other companies are interested and willing to make the investment to develop the gas field. According to Jagdeo, Exxon’s developmental work on the well is timely.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

The draft gas strategy, which will lay out the framework for Guyana developing its gas reserves, is expected to be completed within the next two weeks, at which time consultations on the strategy will be launched.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo made this revelation during his recent press conference. He also made the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s position known on the development works ExxonMobil recently started on the Haimara well.

“We’ve made it clear. We want to monetise our gas. The gas assets. We’re working on a gas strategy. I’m hopeful that within two weeks or so, we should be able to put the first draft out for consultations. And that strategy will outline, basically, our approach to the industry,” Jagdeo said.

“But we’ve had no further discussions at this point in time. We have publicly signalled that if those areas, like Haimara which has more gas than the other wells, that if they can’t be monetised and if Exxon doesn’t want to move on them, we expect them to

“Because there may be others who would be willing to move on a project like that. That position stands. So given what we discussed with them, and that public pronouncement, they now have to do much more work. The appraisal of the assets, etc. And that’s what they’re doing. And we’re pleased that that’s being done,” the Vice President added.

In 2019, the Haimara-1 well was one of five wells in which oil was discovered, along with discoveries in the Tilapia-1, Yellowtail-1, Tripletail-1 and the Mako-1 wells. These discoveries had pushed the total estimated recoverable barrels of oil equivalent to over six billion.

As of 2023, the estimated recoverable barrels of oil in the Stabroek Block now stand at over 11 billion barrels of oil.

It was recently announced by the Guyana Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) that Exxon had started work on the Haimara-2 appraisal well, using the Stena DrillMax, to explore the potential gas resources in the well.

The Guyana Government has previously declared its intention to monetise its largely untapped gas resources found offshore, which it said would help to open up new opportunities for trade and energy security between Guyana and its bilateral partners.

The National Gas Strategy will guide the best way possible to do this.

Jagdeo had previously said that once the just concluded oil blocks’ auction and the new model Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) are completed, Government’s attention will be turned to establishing this gas plan… a necessary component of the gas-to-shore project.

The gas-to-shore project, which is pegged at more than US$1 billion, will feature approximately 220 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore from the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to Wales, West Coast Demerara.

Upon landing on shore, the pipeline will continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant to be constructed at Wales. The pipeline would be 12 inches in diameter and is expected to transport some 50 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of dry gas to the NGL plant, but has the capacity to push as much 120 mmscfd.

The main feature of the gas-to-shore initiative is a

power plant that will generate 250 to 300 megawatts of power using natural gas from offshore, which will significantly reduce the cost of electricity in Guyana. The aim is to deliver rich gas by the end of 2024 for the power plant while the NGL facility is slated to be online by 2025.

The gas-to-shore project, which has a 25-year lifespan, is expected to employ up to 800 workers during the peak construction stage, as well as some 40 full-time workers during the operations stage, and another 50 workers during the decommissioning stage.

There has also been talk of an energy corridor for some time, with the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) conducting both baseline and pre-feasibility studies. Guyana is, in fact, a party to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Northern Arc (Arco Norte) Interconnection Project which seeks to evaluate the feasibility of possible collaboration on the energy transmission system for the electric interconnection of Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and the northern cities of Brazil. (G3)

The Stena DrillMax currently drilling in the Haimara-2 well

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

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Comparing systems of labour coercion

Over the last month, a vigorous debate has been waged in the press and over social media on slavery and indentureship in Guyana. Unfortunately, more heat than light was shed on this foundational issue of the forms of domination over labour, that continue to reverberate in our social relations. Fortuitously, over four decades ago, an academic, Nigel Boland, addressed the technique of comparison that is at the heart of the present imbroglio. He proposed:

First, we should reconsider the theoretical framework within which systems of domination are examined. The fact that most historical writing lacks any explicit theoretical framework does not mean that it does not have an implicit one, which generally is based upon two assumptions concerning the nature of social action - that it is rational, and that it is individualistic. In other words, this theoretical framework implies that, under certain given conditions, individuals would choose to act in certain predictable ways. This framework views labour control, and social action in general, as a series of relations between individuals rather than as a social institution or as an aspect of a system of relationships which is already in operation.

Functionalism is most frequently invoked as the framework alternative to this “rational individualism”, because it appears to meet the problem of examining institutions as ongoing structures. However, though functionalism is not so reductionist, it avoids the question of the historical origins of social structures. When an institution is studied in terms of its function; that is, in terms of the part it plays in maintaining a systemic whole, the problem of examining the origins and transformation of the institution remains.

Yet another framework exists in the comparative method which approaches problems of function and change by comparing specific factors and variables in a quasi-experimental manner. However, the fact that one can compare only those phenomena which have shared qualities produces the danger that the search for commonalities may be at the expense of drawing on the uniqueness of specific sociohistorical situations. When factors are isolated from their contexts in order that they may be compared, they lose their particular meaning. In this way, then, overreaching comparisons may lose sight of the real meaning of what is being compared, and the result is ahistorical theory and abstract generalizations. Of course, we must always make comparisons, but when the search for universals makes a “methodology” out of the comparative method, then the tail is wagging the dog.

In contrast to these approaches, dialectical theory is critical in that it identifies the conflicts that produce change in social structures, and it emphasizes the importance of studying all factors as part of a historical “totality” - which the factors affect but from which they also derive their meaning. Dialectical theory consequently offers an important corrective to some of the possible extremes of the comparative method, as well as an alternative theoretical framework to those of rational individualism and functionalism (in the present debate on slavery and indentureship). It may be seen that arbitrary abstraction of certain factors from the totality induces explanations that are deterministic, monocausal and reductionist, and that dialectical theory provides a preferable framework.

While it is incontrovertible that the abolition of slavery in 1834 and of apprenticeship in 1838 changed the forms of domination that had prevailed in the British West Indies, it is necessary to distinguish between the ideological claims made for the new system and its reality. Dialectical theory promotes examination of the interrelationship of social factors, including cultural and political, as well as of economic and demographic aspects in the totality of a social system which is conceived as an ongoing and changing structure of relationships. The comparative study of systems of labour control could benefit from a classificatory scheme which would be capable of distinguishing among categories along a broad spectrum of “unfreedoms,” including slavery, serfdom, and debt peonage, as well as remunerated labour, tribute labour, indentured labour, convict or captive labour, coerced wage, labour, and so-called free wage labour.

“Race hate” is an ugly inheritance we must work collectively to eliminate

Dear Editor, Please permit me to address the recent emerging dynamics of some PNC support operatives in Guyana’s political matrix, and highlight their sinful attempts to disguise the overused racehate phenomenon. The tactics are bound to fail, as the voting public at home bears witness to, and feels the non-discriminatory transitioning of, our country.

The intent of the orchestrators’ sinister plans is to heighten racial prejudices as a medium to secure race-based support, which is unsurprising and only deserving of exposure for the shallowness and lack of worth in the propagandistic scheme. A key player is the vendetta fuelled in the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID), which recently announced its hosting of a September 18, 2023 Conference in Washington DC, USA, with the deceptive theme “Combating Racism, Inequality, Injustice, and a One Party Ethnocracy in Guyana.”

All must strongly condemn such unqualified and unsubstantiated untruths. An examination of published media articles designed to attract the participation of the diaspora audiences would find it is not tricky to uncover the surreptitious concoction of hopeful persuasion through which the organizers have sought to propagandize. Articles captioned “Conference on rampant racism and nepotism in Guyana” and “CGID to host a high-level conference on Guyana in U.S come September” deceptively make loaded, emboldened, but unsupported pronouncements.

The authors refer to research findings for which the framework and scope are unknown. For example, pronouncing that 50% of Afro children are school dropouts looking for work is outrageous, while not providing any measure on the other ethnic groups in our population. Further, there is no mention of the thousands of scholarships awarded to Guyanese of all ethnic groupings to aid the development of capacity to deal with our emerging economy. Instead, the cabal seems more focused on lobbying the Diaspora and US Congress to ensure American ideals are imposed on the Guyana Government.

The reality is that CGID lacks credibility, but in line with the PNC’s decades of manipulation, wishes to portray itself along with its cohorts as having the ordained authority to represent the rights of the Afroethnic people. Yet, no other

group has abused the rights of Afro-Guyanese than these self-aggrandizing, backdoor power-seekers, who constantly self-proclaim racial spews. The situation begs the question, “Where is the logic when the advocates of racial behaviour make accusations?”

One previous attempt to answer this question is that the illogical positions stem from the scriptwriter’s advancing personality dislike of the People’s Progressive Party Civic Leadership, and publicly expressed personal dislike for Dr Bharrat Jagdeo. Consequently, the conspirators’ frontal schematics are merely to advance the dirty, false claims against the ‘progressive’ Irfaan Ali-led Guyana Government in order to sway our Diaspora’s perception of the fundamental national transformation for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Editor, in a plural society such as ours in Guyana, “race” did not appear as an issue overnight. All the talks of racism and its causes and effects have their genesis from poverty, exploitation, and the lack of trust and confidence in the systems we had to live in. Today we are better at dealing with these issues, and must find a less abrasive path.

While finding a unified path requires objective consultation at the national level, it is unacceptable for our elected President to beg the Opposition Leader for a modicum of decency. One has to wonder what level of discussion would ensue if two parties with our nation’s future as the subject cannot engage in basic cordiality.

Some local and national media houses have argued that President Ali is responsible for fixing the Opposition Leader’s refusal to exercise decorum. In recent press interviews, our President publicly clarified his readiness and willingness to accept Mr Norton’s phone call to address national considerations at all times.

Further, one cannot deny that President Dr Irfaan Ali and his highly respected Government are working to make Guyana a better place to live. Our history has never recorded such a proactive Government with a robust plan and increased resources. President Ali’s “One Guyana” motto is a providence of unity in diversity. As a result, as one traverses Guyana and visits different places today, our people’s true togetherness is a reality. Go to our schools and markets, all social events and even our “religious activities” are punctuated

with Guyanese of all ethnic groups. One must therefore rationalise and conclude that the CGID’s undertaking has no real foundation.

I will follow up with a subsequent appropriate article, as space does not allow me to be expansive.

A perspective of the root cause of attempts to rig elections in Guyana is the racial overtones, which have always gotten more potent as the cycle of national elections approaches. The PNC previously comprised a larger Afro-group, while the PPP knowingly attracted a larger Indo-grouping. However, the PNC’s party paramountcy policy’s instructive approach has always informed abusive rigging as the root cause of “racism.” Today, with the meaningful progression and leadership of the PPP/C, no one could determine a citizen’s political choice by ethnicity. Based on policy and delivery, we have witnessed more considerable crossover support for the PPP/C.

Only as we approach election time can we witness the radicalization of incensed racism. Our country was united in 1992 when the Political Committee in Defense of Democracy struggled as a united front for free and fair elections in Guyana. Again, in 2020, our country has to be supported almost globally to arrest the abusive undercurrents of the most flagrant attempts by PNC operatives to undermine our democracy. While many PNC/APNU leaders continue to act like the abuses never occurred, they have

no moral authority or track record to criticize the PPP/C about racism or discrimination. Our people voted; our people saw your behaviour, and witnessed the recounts; and the results proved your rejection of the PNC/APNU Government.

However, it must be necessary for our people to know that both significant political parties have a cross-section of Guyanese in their membership. However, the PNC/APNU still seeks pride in insulting ‘Indians’ conveniently. Only recently, party leaders called an IndoPNC General Secretary a house slave because she spoke of wrongdoings by her colleagues. Further, several Indians were recently removed from the PNC leadership following the trend when the PNC/APNU+AFC entered the Government in 2015. At that time, they dismissed seven thousand sugar workers, the vast majority of them from the Indo group, and two thousand Amerindians from employment. The ‘haters’ conveniently use racism for their political mileage. Significantly, it is of note that some of the vicious mouthpieces of racism are political baggage. In the USA, David Hinds worked closely with the PCD to see the end of PNC’s deadly rigging.

Significantly, no person could talk about racism in our schools, hospitals, transportation system, markets, and social activities while our people are living in greater peace and harmony. Gone are the ‘kick-down-

the-door’ bandits. Slavery and indentureship were the bad days, and things would get better with convenient speed under a caring and purposeful PPP/C Government.

We must collectively ensure that we eliminate all forms of electoral rigging, and that those facing charges before the courts for

serious election fraud face justice.

Race hate is an ugly inheritance to eliminate, but there must be no backdoor entry to our political power. Those elected must face and earn the confidence of our people.

Sincerely,

Neil Kumar

An oversight committee is needed

Dear Editor,

The recent fiasco over the audit of Exxon is a clear indication that the current structure in place to manage the oil sector is inadequate.

The Minister and the Ministry over the sector have too much power, and as a result, they have made decisions that an oversight committee would have prevented. This committee must include the GRA, Members of Parliament from both sides of the aisle, experts on the oil industry, and climate change/environmental experts.

There is an obvious lack of accountability within the Ministry, and the mismanagement is concerning. Even former President Jagdeo’s instructions were abandoned and ignored. We must ensure that there is a clear process in place, with the necessary safeguards to avoid the mixed messages being sent to Exxon and other suppliers. The lack of clarity and the willingness to bypass the designated authorities to cut a more ben-

eficial deal for Exxon would now lead to more expenditures for the country, due to arbitration. It would also risk bringing into question the competence of the GRA.

Going forward, there must be a clear and unified response to suppliers in the sector. Anyone who usurps the authority of the officials in charge of a given stage of the audit process and the wider management process of the sector must be dealt with swiftly and decisively. This sector doesn’t belong to the privileged few, but to all Guyanese. No individual should be allowed to reap personal benefits by undermining the integrity of our Government. An official review of what took place and a financial audit of the Ministry should be a part of the next steps to determine the root cause and corrective actions needed to prevent such a fiasco or a variant of it from recurring in the future.

Regards,

Jamil Changlee Chairman

Sunday, September 17, 2023

06:00 (Sign on) Jewanram Rel. Hour

07:00 Cartoons

08:00 Shekinah Ministry

08:30 Evening News (RB)

09:00 Cartoons

10:00 CPL: JT VS SLK

14:00 Movie - Family Camp (2022)

16:00 David Persaud Religious Program

16:30 Payless Power Hour

17:30 The Healing Touch

18:00 Maths is Fun

18:30 Week-in-Review

19:00 CPL: AW VS BR

23:00 Stand-up Comedy

00:00 Sign off

NUTRITION

What should the diet of the canine senior citizen be?

Firstly, we must understand that older dogs – being less active – would need less energy-giving foods (less calories). If you continue to feed the old dog the same amount of food as when he was a young stud, he is certain to put on weight, mainly in the form of fat. This, in turn, leads to more pressure on some of the organ systems (heart, liver, kidneys).

Further, this tendency to feed “Rover” (irrespective of whether he is young or old) sweets (chocolate), snacks, and left-over food (table scraps) will surely result in obesity, if there is no equivalency via energy-burning activities.

Secondly, we must

recognize that, in biology, we can only speak of averages. That which is correct for one dog is not necessarily the right thing for another pooch. The feed (energy) requirements vary from dog to dog, even within the same breed, or in dogs of the same gender. Each old dog is different, and may need a different diet and his/her own personal care.

So, how do we define the old dog’s needs? Well, for one thing, it is important to differentiate between an active old dog and a listless, lethargic old dog. Is it a temperamentally hyper old dog or an apathetic, sedentary dog? Moreover, you want your dog, old as he is, not to be exhibiting “skin

and bones”, or to be flabby and obese.

The rule of thumb is to feed the dog with 25–30 calories per pound body weight. The problem is how to calculate the calories. This matter is easily dealt with if you feed a “name-brand” imported dog food – whether dry or in a tin. The label on the package will tell you how many calories are in each serving, and you can calculate accordingly.

The situation is more difficult if you are feeding local food. Your vet will advise you how much mince, or chicken, or fish and rice you may feed. A one-to-one ratio of cooked meat and rice is an acceptable pro-

portion. Vegetables provide additional vitamins and minerals.

One thing is clear: the food has got to be of a high quality. This usually means that the digestive protein component must be higher (and the carbohydrate component lower) than that which was offered when the dog was a young, energetic animal.

Actually, some authors recommend, as a rule of thumb, that one should use the puppy formula for the old dog. Please take care not to overfeed the old dog with too much pure protein. Such a “rich” diet (of meat, say) would increase the nitrogen load, which tends to place an added stress on the liver and kid-

neys. And if the old dog cannot handle the excessive amounts of protein, the organs -- especially the function of the kidneys -- can be compromised (kidney failure). Because of this fear, I tend to advise clients to feed more rice, which is a relatively easily digestible carbohydrate, and which contains some proteins as well, all within the rice-and-meat combination diet.

Examples of foods which contain high quality, relatively easily digestible protein would be cottage cheese, skimmed milk, high quality (low fat) special mince, eggs. If you notice your dog losing weight with this type of diet, then I advise you to add more boiled rice to the feeding regime at once, then contact your vet.

Now, what do we do about fats in the diet? You have always heard (and you know only too well from your personal enjoyment) that fats increase the palatability of food. However, in the older dog, fats (high in calories) are not easily digested; yet, some amount of fat has to be in the diet, if for no other reason than to aid in the absorption of certain vitamins, and for the production of essential fatty acids. Plant oils or fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) are food sources of fats for the elderly dog.

A simple (sample) basic maintenance diet which I would recommend for a canine senior citizen comprises 50 per cent corn meal porridge together with 50 per cent commercial puppy ration. You may add a vitamin/mineral supplement and a vegetable (carrot,

ten than not the first to be compromised. This reduced kidney function often results in loss of B-vitamins in the urine.

Moreover, some minerals and vitamins are not optimally absorbed through the intestines of the old dog. They are defecated, and must be replaced. You can use any of the many pet vitamins/ minerals products on the market – following veterinary advice, of course.

If the dog needs to lose weight, give him a quarter less than this maintenance diet.

Some general dietary considerations

- Instead of feeding the old dog only once daily, it may be of value to divide his daily requirements into two or three feeds.

- If the dog has a specific organ ailment, or is already too obese, let your vet prescribe a specific diet for your pet.

- Do not feed the old dog cold food.

- Do not change his diet. Whatever is the routine, stick to it, as long as there are no obvious deleterious consequences. The digestive tract of the elderly dog has specific bacteria which have “evolved” to deal with a specific diet. A sudden change (even in the water quality) can create diarrhoea and other gastro-intestinal upsets. If you have to change the diet, do it gradually.

- Examine the oral cavity often for gum disease and tooth problems, which would affect intake and need veterinary care.

- Note the impact of diet on the stomach (distension), defecation, and Discuss any digestive issues with your veterinarian.

Oil blocks’ auction

Standing among giants: Sispro Inc sole Guyanese company to bid for oil block

…Chairwoman optimistic of pioneering company’s chances

By Jarryl Bryan

Guyana’s historic oil blocks’ auction, which concluded last week, is notable not only for the plethora of international companies which participated but also for the lone Guyanese company which, through months of careful planning, was able to submit a bid for one of the 14 oil blocks.

The company, Sispro Incorporated, is based in Middle Street, Georgetown. It was formed within the last year and is being financed by New Hayven Merchant Bank, which was founded by local financial analyst Professor Floyd Haynes. Sispro Inc is making waves, not just because it’s an indigenous company wading in with industry giants, but because of its all-female Board of Executive Directors.

The Chairwoman of Sispro Inc is Dr Melissa Varswyk, the co-founder of Georgetown American University, who holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and a post-grad in Health Professions Education. Also at the helm of the company is Abbigale Loncke-Watson, who has founded several companies including MBW Energy Support Services and is behind the non-profit WeLead Caribbean.

Dr Ayodele Dalgety-Dean is another Executive Director and entrepreneur, who is the founder of Blossom Inc, an advocacy group against sexual and gender-based violence against children and women. The fourth and final Executive Director of this company is Dee George, an economics major who is also the General Manager of Herdmanston Lodge and President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).

Pioneers In an exclusive interview with this publication, Dr Varswyk explained that Sispro was formed out of the desire of the four women to invest and capitalise on opportunities in the oil and gas sector, as a local company. It was important to them that the oil and gas wealth they would acquire from a successful bid and eventual production, remain in Guyana. But they are also pioneers in every sense of the word.

Out of all the companies involved in oil and gas exploration and production in Guyana, none are indige-

nous companies who are also operators of a block. Should Sispro be successful in the bid, they plan to partner with Exceed Torridon Limited, a Scottish firm that has operated on more than 60 wells in 39 countries, to explore for and produce oil. It is a historic venture and the bid round, which was first launched last year November and concluded last Thursday, was a critical step on their way to their goal.

“Since there not much women in oil and gas, we decided why not take the challenge and bid for a block, with the hope that we would

have the opportunity to have the wealth trickle down in Guyana. And at the same time, bringing women at the forefront of oil and gas. We started exploring what is it that we need,” Varswyk explained.

One of the major things the company lacked at the time of its start-up was the technical expertise specific to oil and gas. The company has since brought on Rotimi Ogunlowo, a Petroleum Engineering Consultant with 26 years under his belt working for an ExxonMobil affiliate company in Nigeria; Francis Bassey, a Geoscience Technical Executive with 35 years of experience in oil and gas and John Olaniyan, an experienced Petroleum Management professional who has worked in Chevron Nigeria and ExxonMobil.

Other professionals who were hired are Adebayo Okunlola, a Geoscientist with over 25 years of experience in Nigeria; Ebenezer Olufemi, an Operations and Maintenance Management executive experienced in pipeline and deepwater infrastructure maintenance; Candacie Brower-Thompson who worked as an Environmental Specialist

with the local Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for 16 years. With the exception of Brower-Thomspon, all of these specialists were recruited straight out of Houston, Texas, home of ExxonMobil.

Last but not least, former Digicel Guyana Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gregory Dean has joined their team as their Financial Advisor. According to Varswyk, they recruited these specialists and were able to put together their team.

Optimistic

When the dust had settled from the oil block auction, a total of eight bids were received from six companies, including Sispro, for

the 14 oil blocks. US oil major ExxonMobil, which is already producing oil offshore Guyana in the Stabroek Block, was one of those six oil companies that submitted bids for the blocks.

The other companies were Sispro Inc (Guyana); Total Energies EP Guyana BV; Qatar Energy International E&P LLC; Petronas E&P Overseas Ventures SDN BHD (Malaysia); Delcorp Inc Guyana and Watad Energy and Arabian Drillers of Saudi Arabia; Liberty Petroleum Corporation of the US and Ghana-based Cybele Energy Limited; International Group Investment Inc and Montego Energy SA (London).

Map showing the blocks that were up for auction

Standing, from left; Executive Director and Chairwoman Dr Melissa Varswyk and Executive Director and THAG President Dee George. Sitting, from left; Executive Director Dr Ayodele DalgetyDean and Executive Director and Secretary Abbigale LonckeWatson

The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that was set up to probe the events of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory’s fire back in May 2023 will be done diligently and with transparency to provide a thorough report to President Dr Irfaan Ali.

As the public hearings opened on Friday, this assurance was given by Chairman, Retired Major General Joe Singh.

“I wish to assure that the Commission will work diligently, transparently and with sensitivity in order to accomplish the tasks as prescribed in the Terms of Reference, and provide a balanced, impartial, and thorough report to His Excellency the President,” Singh outlined.

The Commission of Inquiry will dive into and report on the events and circumstances leading up to and causes of the Mahdia fire; inquire into and report upon the actions taken to provide swift care, medical attention, and other forms of support and assistance to the families of those injured and deceased; and make such recommendations and observations as the Commission may deem fit, including such measures to prevent the recurrence of such tragedy.

Singh underscored that the Commission will also ensure that the affairs of those who are deceased are handled in a dignified matter, while keeping with the Juvenile

– Chairman

Justice Act where necessary.

“It is also our duty to act in the best interests of all minors affected by this tragedy and to ensure that references to the deceased are dealt with in a dignified manner. We shall therefore be guided by Provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act of 2018, best practices, and international standards to ensure the interests of all minors involved are paramount.”

On August 10, President Ali appointed Retired Major General Joe Singh as Chairman and Attorneyat-Law Kim Kyte-Thomas, and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Derrick John as Commissioners.

There are three phases of the inquiry: evidence gathering, oral hearings, and report writing. It will last for two months unless extended by the President.

On May 21, Guyana and the rest of the world were plunged into mourning as news broke of the tragic incident which destroyed the building and took 20 lives.

Those who died were Eulander Carter, Martha D’Andrade, Mary D’Andrade and Omefia Edwin of Chenapau; Belnisa Evans, Loreen Evans, Rita Bibi Jeffrey and Sabrina John of Karisparu; Natalie Bellarmine, Shorlin Bellarmine, Sherena Daniels, Arianna Edwards, Delicia Edwards, Adonija Jerome,

Andrea Roberts, Lisa Roberts, Nickoleen Robinson, Cleoma Simon, Tracil Thomas and Lorita Williams of Micobie.

The Mahdia school’s dormitory housed students from the communities of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

The fire was allegedly set in the bathroom area of the

dormitory. According to the surviving female students, they were asleep and were awakened by screams.

Upon checking, they saw fire and smoke in the bathroom area, which quickly spread in the building, causing several students to receive burns to their bodies and suffer from smoke inhalation, whilst several managed to escape.

Several of the injured students were air-dashed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment. On May 27, a 13-yearold girl was flown to the Northwell Health Burn Care Centre in New York to seek advanced medical care. She has since returned to Guyana for further treatment.

Information from the Guyana Fire Service indicated that 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while six died at Mahdia District Hospital.

Standing among...

Asked by this publication how confident she was of her company’s bid being successful, Dr Varswyk left no doubts of how optimistic they were. She was adamant that the company had met the oil block auction’s stringent requirements.

“We see it as a collective effort. We believe that we satisfy both the technical and financial criteria. We know that we have a strong en-

Widening...

…the national fracas

For years now - in our vaunted “Land of six peoples” - our political culture has been largely shaped by the struggle for one-upmanship between our two numerically largest groups – Afro- and Indo-Guyanese. From one perspective, that ain’t too surprising, since - in the final reckoning - democracy boils down to numbers –no? But in the meantime, the other groups: the Portuguese, Amerindians, Chinese and the catch-all Mixed, have become fodder for “topping up” numbers needed for getting that needed majority!! After all, there ain’t no group with a majority on their lonesome no mo!!

Now, when you come to think of it, that’s not a very bad position for the “remainders” to be in!! Everyone giving you the full-court press to get you to put your X on either the Cup or the Hand – previously the Palm Tree!! The Mixed group are such a mishmash that it’s difficult to pin down their orientations; but, all in all, they seem to cleave more to the Palm Tree than the Cup – and help balance out the Indo advantage. The Portuguese and Chinese numbers are so small that, as far as votes are concerned, they really don’t matter.

FROM PAGE 7

vironmental consultant on our team also, who actually worked with the EPA. So, she’s bringing on board all the know hows as it relates to the environmental aspect of oil and gas. She also helped in coining the regulations for Guyana.”

“And so, with that technical, financial and environmental capacity and, of course, my team’s strong relationship in the business sector already in Guyana, I believe we can make this happen,” Dr Varswyk explained.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has previously stated that when the auction wrapped up, evaluations of the bids and negotiations with prospective companies would follow before the blocks could be awarded. He has also previously indicated that the Government hopes to wrap this process up by year-end. Companies will also be expected to abide by the fiscal terms in the new model Production Sharing Agreements (PSA), in order to attain and retain these blocks.

Under new conditions, Guyana stands to benefit from signature bonuses as high as US$20 million for the deep-water blocks and US$10 million for the shallow-water blocks. Additionally, all future PSAs will also include the retention of the 50-50 profit-sharing after cost recovery; the increase of the royalty from a mere two per cent to a 10 per cent fixed rate; the imposition of a 10 per cent corporate tax, and the lowering of the cost recovery ceiling to 65 per cent from 75 per cent.

In the meantime, there is also the prospect of bilateral partnerships at the country-to-country level to develop Guyana’s remaining oil blocks. Among the countries that have expressed a willingness to work at a government-to-government level were India, Qatar and more recently, the Dominican Republic.

But they even out things with their money, and because of that, they wield influence way beyond their electoral weight – kinda like political jujitsu!! So, even though they’re tiny minorities, nobody takes them for granted. Money talks – very loudly!! So, in the midst of one of the perennial pi55ing contests between the Indos and Afros - this time as to who suffered more to get first dibs on the oil money spigot!! – when one Portuguese fella raised the issue of them being a minority who also suffered, you can imagine the uproar!!!

How dare he – fulfilling the stereotype of the “rich Putagee mafia” whom Desmond Hoyte had cussed out –talk about “suffering”!! Wasn’t he living high off the hog?? Gratuitously emphasized, with his complaint being under a pic of him sitting at “The table” with the President at a high-level meeting with the American Govt in Washington!! Oh Lawd, have mercy!! The indignation reached such levels as to’ve certainly caused some blood vessels to pop with apoplexy!!

Now, in all fairness to the Portuguese fella, he did state the FACT of them being a minority. But he didn’t factor in that, when it comes to politics, influence is equal to numbers multiplied by wealth!! And in Guyana, that makes even the few Portuguese equal in influence to either the Afros or Indos!! And as for “suffering”, they did suffer more than any other indentureds – as far as their death rates were concerned.

They died like flies, arguably even compared to slaves!! But that doesn’t count??

…schools reach

New schools are opening up at such a pace that your Eyewitness can’t keep up. One secondary school just opened up at De Willem on the West Coast of Demerara –just two weeks after a new building was added to Zeeburg High School - a couple of hundred yards away!! While your Eyewitness is quite chuffed at all these new schools, he’s wondering who’ll be staffing them. He hasn’t heard of any massive expansion of the Teachers Training Institute churning out teachers in the hundreds!!

Now, traditionally, our high schools – following the British Model – have always stressed academic subjects like your Eyewitness’s bete noir, Maths!! He’s always questioned – and questions once again – why he and everyone up to the present generation have to be tortured with esoterica like quadratic equations?? Isn’t it time that we focus on subjects that are more relevant to our present lives??

If - God forbid! – your Eyewitness or the kids have to solve a quadratic equation, all they gotta do is ask Chat GPT!!

…Exxon’s payment

So, now that the Govt has accepted GRA’s assessment of Exxon’s liabilities from their claims between 1999 and 2017 as being inflated by US$214M, and they owe us US$107M – is Exxon gonna proceed to arbitration, as they’d threatened??

Mahdia CoI will be conducted diligently, transparently

Chairman of the Mahdia Commission of Inquiry, Major General (retired) Joe Singh

NDC overseer in hot water for “fake” employment of part-time workers …accused

of pocketing salaries

An overseer attached to a Corentyne Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) has allegedly ‘employed’ at least two Government parttime workers unknown to them and has allegedly been pocketing their salaries.

The issue was raised at a recent meeting of the JohnsPort Mourant NDC.

There are reports that the overseer forged the signatures of the two men, who according to the records are employed with the Rose Hall Town Municipality.

The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has remained silent on the issue when contacted about the issue.

Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus said no matter of forgery or embezzlement at the JohnsPort Mourant NDC has been brought to the attention of the Police.

However, NDC Chairman Vimen Armogan has confirmed that the Regional Executive Officer (REO) has informed them of the matter, but who is investigating the issue remains unclear.

NDC Councillors said at the RDC level the overseer has been advised to repay the money, but this, they said, is wrong and the regional office should not treat the matter so lightly.

This resulted in NDC officials informing senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, who also has ministerial responsibility for Region Six.

When asked about the issue by this publication, Dr Singh said, “I have heard mention of a matter concerning an investigation at Port Mourant NDC. I have requested any reports that would be documented what would have transpired and I am awaiting those.”

The overseer tendered his resignation on July 7, 2023, but it was reportedly not accepted.

Not employed

This publication was able to track down two persons who are the persons on file as being the part-time workers, but they said they know nothing of their employment with the Port Mourant NDC.

David Babolall and Mahadeo Kowlessar both told this publication they are employed with the Rose Hall Town Municipality as part-time workers. Both of them said they have never worked with the Johns-Port Mourant NDC.

According to Kowlessar, he heard that he was on the Johns-Port Mourant NDC payroll and was summoned to the RDC in relation to that issue.

Speaking about their engagement with at the RDC, Babolall said they were questioned and then showed the evidence suggesting that they were employed at both

the Johns-Port Mourant NDC and the Rose Hall Town Municipality as parttime workers.

“He call we around to come behind his desk and he showed us two papers; one is from Rose Hall and the other one is from Port Mourant. He said, look you’re all drawing money from two places. We tell him if he don’t believe he can call the Mayor and talk to him because we never work with Port Mourant NDC; we working with Rose Hall. I tell him I never sign for any money at Port Mourant,” Babolall said.

Kowlessar said the docu-

ment from the Port Mourant NDC had both their names and a signature next to it but the signatures did not correspond with theirs.

Meanwhile, in explaining how the Port Mourant NDC might have been able to obtain personal information about the two men including their National Identification Card numbers, Babolall said he and Kowlessar are very good friends and had gone together to the Port Mourant NDC seeking parttime employment. He said they were asked to furnish personal information including their phone numbers and were told that they

would be called as soon as the NDC is ready to have them employed.

“We never get no call and then the Mayor called me and asked me if I want to work and he carry me to the RDC office and so come me and my friend get work,” he said.

Back in February of this year, Region Six Chairman David Armogan had stated that the Local Government Ministry was investigating the alleged hiring of scores of workers under the Government’s 10-day$40,000 per month initiative by an NDC overseer.

Subsequently more than

40 persons who had been hired at the Port Mourant NDC as Government parttime workers were sent home as it was found that they were not properly hired.

The NDC currently has 103 part-time workers attached to it. The Chairman said there were 48 persons who were employed by the overseer.

Meanwhile, the NDC was told at a recent meeting that their cash books have not been updated since 2017.

The NDC Chairman said the Council’s books have been audited several times

but there has never been an auditor’s report presented to the NDC.

In March of this year, a lorry which was purchased by the John’s-Port Mourant NDC was purchased in the name of the acting overseer.

The vehicle that is being used for garbage collection was bought with the NDC’s 2022 $3M subvention from Central Government.

Meanwhile, the NDC is being taken to court for allegedly not paying $1.6 million to a contractor for the installation of lights. The NDC had received the funding for the project in its 2021 subvention. (G4)

Dengue cases continue to rise in Region 6

Dengue continues to rise in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). This is according to data coming out of the health department in the region.

There have been 471 cases recorded from tests done in the region, with 25 being recorded on Wednesday. Over the past few weeks, 58 persons had to be admitted into hospitals as a result of contracting dengue, of that number one was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital because of the severity of the symptoms.

These symptoms are

high fever, headache, body aches, nausea and rash.

The dengue virus is primarily transmitted from person to person through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquito. Humans are the primary host and source of the virus.

The vector Control Department of the Health Department has been visiting communities to identify yards with possible breathing places for mosquitoes.

A total of 5219 lots that were suspected to be breathing grounds for the mosquitoes have been inspected since the outbreak of the

disease in the region. Some 1289 breathing sites have been identified to date.

According to Region Six Chairman David Armogan, a fogging cycle commenced on Tuesday evening. This, he pointed out, is the third cycle and it focuses on New Amsterdam and East Canje.

Armogan explained that the recent spring tide would have brought the mosquitoes from their dwelling place in the vegetation along the rivers, inland.

“We recently had a spring tide and after the water would have receded the mosquitoes would come out very heavily.”

In places like the New Amsterdam Ferry Stelling and its environs, the Esplanade Park, the Berbice High Court, and the New Amsterdam Magistrate Court along with some schools, there has been an influx of mosquitoes as of Monday.

Visitors to those institutions are being swarmed by mosquitoes even at midday.

Armogan said once the fogging continues the infestation will die off.

There is no specific treatment for dengue. The focus is on treating pain symptoms. Paracetamol is often used to control pain. (G4)

Serial robbery accused remanded to prison

Alabourer who is accused of robbing two businessmen who reside at Diamond, East Bank Demerara and a consultant and a self-employed man has been remanded to prison on several charges.

Twenty-eight-year-old Anferny Cantzlar of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown was arrested last Monday and charged on Friday for the offence of break and enter and larceny, contrary to Section 229(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. He is accused of committing the act on Chattergoon Jadoopat, a 44-year-old businessman, at his home in Diamond Housing Scheme, EBD.

Remanded: Anferny Cantzlar

Cantzlaar has also been arraigned in a separate matter before the same Magistrate for the offence of burglary committed on Anterny Alleyne, a 62-yearold Consultant who resides at Diamond Housing Scheme. When this charge was read to him, he pleaded not guilty. Bail was refused, and he was remanded to prison. This matter was adjourned to 11 October 2023.

The accused has moreover been slapped with another charge alleging that he broke and entered the home of 31-yearold Businessman Jainarine Singh of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, and committing larceny therein.

Cantzlar also answered a fourth charge on Friday, alleging that he broke and entered the home of Horatio Croker, a self-employed man of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, and committed larceny therein.

The accused was arraignedbefore Golden Grove/Diamond Magistrate Judy Latchman, who read the four charges to him.

Cantzlar pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was refused bail on all four counts. He has been remanded to prison, and the matters have been adjourned to October 11.

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For Guyaneseness in diversity

Defending his ‘plural (cultural) society’ model against charges that it was ‘static’ and not incorporating a mechanism of change, MG Smith pointed out that, invariably, the different cultural segments were ‘differentially incorporated’ into the power relations of their societies, and this fact, in and of itself, initiates change. This change is engendered through the inevitable social comparison process. Right now, there is a claim that African Guyanese historically suffered more, and as such should have superior rights to the national patrimony. This, not surprisingly, is being vigorously contested by the latter groups, who point out that all citizens have inalienable equal rights guaranteed by the state.

Our political scientists and economists, who pontificate on our national policies, unfortunately ignore MG’s insight, to our general peril. As aforementioned citizens, their lived experiences inevitably would influence how they felt about the attainment (or not) of that egalitarian promise. Their experiences are filtered through their cultural lenses, and it should not surprise any if the several groups (defined culturally) even perceive they are differentially into the power structure political consciousness would cleave along cultural (read ethnic) lines.

After decades of focusing on an economistic notion of equality, there is still not an appreciation of the need for cultural equality also. So much for the politics of ‘identity’ and ‘recognition’ in Guyana. There are some who posit that if we have economic equality among the various ethnic groups, our troubles would be over. But our history has demonstrated we are not homo economicus …but more like homo culturalicus. Each group in Guyana has an economic elite, but we have not seen these elites making common cause since the PPP was split in 1955 by Burnham.

An indica of the ‘power relations’ is who gets to define what is the “national culture” – in which all groups have to pattern “proper” behaviour. And it is the differential incorporation of the various cultural groups in this equation that our policies on “multiculturalism” have to address. “Multiculturalism” demands that society present a full range of prospects, membership, and respect to all its members – regardless of cultural and religious differences – while also creatively accommodating them in a fashion that is both morally persuasive and practically effective for the majority of society.”

We have a “Ministry of Culture”, but the name itself – “Culture” – suggests promoting a singular, monolithic, overarching “culture” as a stalking horse for assimilation through the back door. We suggest our motto be changed to “Unity in Diversity through Equality in Diversity”. One definition of ‘multiculturalism’ suggests that it is “a systematic and comprehensive response to cultural and ethnic diversity with educational, linguistic, economic and social components and specific institutional mechanisms”. This suggests areas in which we initially pursue equality.

Now, we want to stress that we certainly are not emphasising any ‘separatist ideal’ in which each group lives in hermetically sealed enclaves. We are suggesting that the ‘equal treatment in culture’ imperative, if implemented and becomes real, would eliminate the barriers of hauteur and exclusion that set off their inevitable reactions of resistance. We believe that when we deal with each other as equals, there would be the inevitable crosscultural fertilisation (in all directions), and not one-way, which is seen as top-down.

With the state out of ‘culture’, it should focus on promoting a feeling of “Guyanese-ness” among our people through the conscious construction of a democratic state – the creation of conditions wherein we are all treated as one, equally, by the state. Equality of opportunity; human rights, encouragement of diversities, due process; justice and fair play and rule of law may seem dry compared to the warmth of the blood ties of “nation”, but they can engender the unity of public purpose and the recognition of individual worth, where we can be proud of our common citizenship.

Citizenship of Guyana has to become something that has concrete meaning to all of us.

For Guyana, then, our ethnicities would be defined outside our “Guyanese-ness”, and to be African, Indian, Indigenous Guyanese etc, would not be contradictory in any sense. The first part of our identity would be specific, while the latter universalistic. The “national” would now be a space that ethnically imagined communities can live in and share. To be Guyanese would be to share moral precepts – norms, values and attitudes – rather than shared cultural experience and practice.

A “good Guyanese” would be one who is loyal to this country and strives to practise the secular universalistic ideological values it extols.

Speeding car crashes into new Eccles-Mandela Roundabout

…alcoholic drinks found inside car

Three persons sustained injuries on Friday evening when the speeding car in which they were travelling crashed into the roundabout at the intersection of the Eccles to Mandela four-lane road and Dumpsite Road on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

The accident occurred at approximately 21:40h and involved motor car PAB 805, which is owned and was driven by Troy Humphrey, a 27-year-old University of Guyana (UG) library employee of Norton Street, Georgetown.

The two occupants of the vehicle at the time were Phillip Jeffery, a 23-yearold security guard of Queenstown, Georgetown, and a 19-year-old resident of Norton Street, Georgetown.

According to Police reports, the car was travelling south on the eastern carriageway of the Eccles to Mandela four-lane road at a high speed. As it approached the intersection, marked with road markings to regulate traffic flow, the driver failed to stop and collided with the roundabout.

The collision resulted in extensive damage to the roundabout, including the water fountain, and the vehicle itself.

All three occupants sustained injuries to their heads and other parts of their bodies. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) arrived at the scene and the trio was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

At the GPHC, the driver and the teen were admitted to the Holding Bay in the Accident and Emergency Unit for observation, and their conditions are currently stable. However, Jeffery was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to a brain haemorrhage and a fractured right hand. His condition is considered serious.

Motor car PAB 805 has been lodged at Diamond Police Station. Police on

Saturday said they found open and sealed bottles of alcoholic beverages both inside and outside the vehicle

which was stationed at the roundabout during the accident. Investigations are ongoing.

crashing into the structure will be required to pay for the damages. The $60 million roundabout was con-

at the accident scene.

Additionally, the driver narrowly avoided colliding with a parked Police anti-crime patrol vehicle,

Shortly after the accident, repairs were carried out on the roundabout. According to reports, the driver responsible for

structed as part of the newly built four-lane highway and was commissioned earlier this month by President Dr Irfaan Ali. (G9)

Ravi Dev

The roundabout being repaired after the accident

The injured occupants being tended to by EMTs at the scene of the accident

The section of the fountain that was destroyed by the speeding car

9-year-old boy critical after allegedly set on fire by mom, stepfather

trauma. Upon arrival, he was promptly admitted to the burn care unit, where a medical team intubated him and provided necessary stabilisation.

The boy remains hospitalised at GPHC, under close supervision by the medical team. However, due to the seriousness of his injuries, he now has to travel to the United States for emergency surgery and comprehensive medical care.

Recognising this urgent need, the Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) charity has taken on Neil’s case and is actively working to facilitate his medical evacuation to the United States.

Meanwhile, when Guyana Times contacted the Commander of Division 4C, Senior Superintendent, Khali Pareshram, he said Neil’s stepfather is currently in Police custody assisting with investigations.

Man found with 4 gunshot wounds in Sophia

Anine-year-old boy is battling for his life after he was allegedly doused with gasoline and set on fire by his mother and stepfather.

Injured is Neil J of Enmore, East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Reports are that the horrific incident occurred on Thursday last and is being investigated by Police as a severe

case of child abuse.

The child sustained extensive third-degree burns, covering approximately 30% of his body.

However, it was not until two days after the incident, September 9, that the child was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) due to acute burns and severe bodily

This publication understands that both parents were arrested for the act, but the child’s mother was subsequently released from custody.

For those who are willing to contribute and support Neil’s battle for survival, donations can be made through the following: GoFundMe: help-save-neil. Persons can also donate to Venmo: @ SheaCharityGY; or Zelle: SHEA@ SHEACHARITY.ORG. (G9)

Aman who has not yet been identified was found on Friday evening in Sophia, Greater Georgetown with gunshot wounds about his body.

Guyana Times has been informed that the injured man was found by residents of the community draped in blood. Upon questioning, the man allegedly told the residents that he had been robbed and shot by gunmen.

In a video that was seen by this publication, residents were heard asking the man where he was from, how he ended up at the location, and for a contact number to one of his relatives. However, appearing to be in severe pain, the man was unable to communicate effectively.

One woman was heard asking, “Who is the person that shot you? You don’t know the person? Oh my God, how can people be so heartless?”

Another man in the video was heard saying that he was walking along the road in Sophia when he saw the man covered in blood lying at the corner of the road and he raised an alarm.

“I wanted to know what a man doing lying down at the corner of the road,” the man said.

An ambulance subsequently arrived on scene, and the man was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Up until Saturday afternoon, the man did not regain consciousness.

Only a few weeks ago, four persons were injured following a shooting incident in B’ Field, Sophia. According to the Police, the victims were among a crowd that had gathered to witness a fight between two men on the access road. (G9)

The child battling for his life at the hospital (photo: SHEA)

The child that was allegedly set on fire by his parents (photo credit: SHEA)

The man who was found with gunshot wounds in Sophia

…Andrea King setting to take the Miss World stage in coming months

By Pooja RamBaRan

Reigning Miss World Guyana, Andrea King has had a busy year since she won her title last August – holding financial literacy workshops for students, becoming the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Co Ltd’s (GTT) Pinktober 2023 Ambassador and continuing to prepare for the Miss World 2023 pageant slated to begin in November.

Guyana Times caught up with King on Friday, during GTT’s launch of Pinktober 2023, an initiative that aims to mobilise civil society organisations, the public and private sectors and the community at large in supporting cancer awareness, screening, diagnosis and treatment.

“It’s a privilege for me to be able to do that, joining hands with GTT and the Champions of Hope foundations to support their fundraising efforts, the education and awareness campaign, and the early detection programme,” King said.

“Thank you to GTT for giving me that opportunity to continue being a ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ ambassador in this regard,” King added.

The term “Beauty with a Purpose” holds additional meaning for King as she continues on her Miss World 2023 journey.

An important component of the international competition, Beauty with a Purpose is a registered charity and non-profit organisation asso-

ciated with Miss World in which contestants raise money and participate in humanitarian projects.

In February, King – who holds a Business Management Administration degree –launched her “Beauty with a Purpose” project through a series of engagements with students and other stakeholders on the importance of financial literacy.

“My platform started out as a project to deliver financial literacy workshops to students in schools because I know financial literacy is not a core subject that is focused on right now and since then, we have grown to an official non-profit organisation and it’s the first of its kind in Guyana that focuses on financial literacy,” King said.

King’s Project FLO (Financial Literacy Orientation) has now grown to a point where she’s engaged with over 1000 students countrywide on understanding how to save, spend and invest their money wisely.

“I started out with a few grades but really students as young as nine-years-old have been joining my workshops, all the way up to 21. Everybody wants to learn about money before they start earning money. It’s no longer restricted to grades so I’m happy that we’ve had so much reception from children of all ages,” King said.

In April, she even had the opportunity to represent Guyana at the World Literacy Summit at Oxford University in Oxford, United Kingdom (UK).

This Summit brought together leaders from some 85 countries and gave them a platform to discuss their collective goal of advocating, championing, and educating the vital importance of improving literacy levels across the globe.

“I presented Project FLO and advocated for financial literacy at the highest level. So, it’s been amazing so far and I’m making great progress and I’m really working to normalise

financial literacy education for our students,” King said.

She noted that her sessions with Guyanese students have usually been interactive, with them having a vested interest in learning more about money.

“Children love talking about money. It’s something that we talk about every day, we think about every day and when you get down to conversations with them about how they can start doing better with their own spending habits, when you start talking to them about things like savings, budgeting, investing so that they can start earning – I think that’s their favourite part because everybody wants to know how to make money,” King said.

Miss World Guyana 2023 Andrea King at World Literacy Summit in the United Kingdom (UK)

Andrea King, named GTT’s Pinktober 2023 Ambassador

Miss World Guyana 2023 Andrea King hosting financial literacy workshops across the country

By Rupa SeenaRaine

Adive into villages of the South Rupununi, Region

Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) reflects a rich culture and way of life that has been carefully preserved throughout the decades.

Through the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC), Guyana Times was afforded a glimpse of the 21 villages in the Wapichan territory, sporting tribes of Wapichan, Macushi and Wai Wai people.

To this present day, many villagers in the communities

still construct their houses from natural materials, with woods tied together using a natural rope called ‘wataba’. Small windows are added so that the wind can enter and smoke from cooking can exit. The floors naturally harden after continuous wetting, and leaves of the eta palm are bundled to make a roof. This will last some time before it needs to be changed, sparing the chances of a leaking roof. Given the peculiarities of the weather, the houses allow cool breeze to flow during the long dry spells, and

warmth to be retained in the rainy season.

The diet of these villagers is interesting, with specific elements stored in their kitchens to accompany meals. Dried pep-

pers are dried or made into a powder or pepper sauce, while cassava is processed into cassareep, farine, or a drink called shapara. Tasso, or dried meat, is hung in the houses, where it can be accessed easily. Calabash is dug out and made into dishes, with special utensils in a Wapichan’s kitchen depending on the meal being prepared.

In this South Rupununi territory are 21 villages: Parikwarinau, Baitoon, Shiriri, Katuur, Potarinau, Quaiko, Shulinab, Meriwau, Sand Creek, Rupunau, Katoonarib, Sawariau, Shea, Maruranau, Awarewaunau, Churikidnao, Aishalton, Karaudarnau, Achawain, Bashaizon and Parabara.

Baitoon Village

Baitoon village, a satellite of Potarinau Village, lies in close proximity to the Brazilian border. It is said that, years ago, there was a large lake in that area in which hundreds of Moscovy ducks fed. They would use the bush islands for roosting, and the name “Baitoon” later emerged, bearing the legend of it.

Baitoon is very different from the other villages of the South Rupununi. Here, bicycles are used as the main mode of transportation. In fact, if one were to spend some time in Baitoon village, one would very likely see someone repairing or otherwise caring for their bicycle.

During the day, farmers tend to their peanut and cassava crops. Livestock is reared and sold, sometimes even across the border. Then women would be seen spinning and weaving fabric to create hammocks, which are later sold to earn a living.

Evenings are spent connecting to a privately owned internet, through which the world would pour into the devices at Baitoon.

Marurunau Village

Marurunau Village, or Marora Nao, is named after the Giant Armadillo Hill. It is a Wapichan community, with a few remaining families of the Taruma people located on the forest edge. First settlements were located at Shaoramniz, Maratino and Tooronau long before the missionaries arrived, over 100 years ago.

Presently, there are over 812 persons living in the village. One-third of these residents work or live away from the village temporarily, but return during holidays to visit family.

Villagers are mainly involved in farming, ranching, craft, hunting, fishing, parttime mining, trapping and trading wild life, or extracting timber. Some of the main balata camps are used even today during hunting, fishing and gathering trips.

Potarinao Village

Potarinao got its name from a giant stingray that is said to have once lived in a deep pool found in the Sawariwau river, located in the South Central Rupununi. This pool was a sensitive site, with a spirit keeper, but from stories related, the early settlers had to close it down

and kill the giant stingray, which was called Potarudu. About 600 villagers reside in Potarinao, which is blessed with open savannahs, rolling hills and mountains, swamps and wild animals. Hunting and gathering, and making medicines are highly practised here, while the village is maintained by subsistence farming of crops such as cassava, peanuts, bananas and corn. Peanuts and farine are sold at Lethem, along with meat from cattle reared.

Rupunau Village

A tranquil place, Rupunau Village derives its name from a word which means Plum hill. Situated on the right bank of Sand Creek, this village is bordered to the north by the Kanuku Mountains, and is blessed with rock mountains, forests, the savannah, numerous water bodies, and small savannah hills.

Rupunau is sustained by farming, ranching, hunting, fishing and labour activities. Wildlife interest and rock climbing are two of its tourist attractions, and jaguars, deer, and cock of the rock birds are regularly spotted there.

Sand Creek Village

In the South-Central area of the South Rupununi is the village of Sand Creek, right next to a valley that is bordered by the grand Kanuku Mountains. Here can be found a hospital, churches, a secondary school, dormitory, a community centre, and a meeting hall, among other important buildings.

While hunting, farming, gathering and fishing are the main economic activities, people also work in the public sector; and Sand Creek also hosts an annual Rupununi Rodeo which attracts scores of tourists who normally leave the festivities in awe.

Achawib Village

Achwaib got its name from a wild garlic named ‘Achawi’, found abundantly along the village creek and on the Achawib Mountains.

The first set of people who settled in Achawib were the Atorads and their subtribes the Dawodais and the Romidins. They later intermingled with the Macushi and Wapichan people, having found that the land was good for farming.

Awarewaunau Village

Awarewaunau means Windy Creek Hill; and with a rich heritage of rock carvings, caves, and historical finds such as axes, beads and other articles, permission is required to visit this village.

A lucky visitor can spot rare birds and animals here, such as the majestic harpy eagle and the bush dog.

Tranquility in Marurunau Village

Lush greenery and plains at Achawib Village

A Wapichan kitchen (SRDC photo)

International Wellness Expo set for September 23

…to connect wellness community with markets, services

The International Wellness Expo planned for next Saturday is abuzz and promises to create a hub for persons within the wellness community to connect with services and entrepreneurs. Under the theme: “Alternative Paths to Wellness”, the Expo is organised by Wellness International Incorporated and will be held at Regency Suites, seeking to highlight the importance and urgency of pursuing a wellness lifestyle and the multiple and diverse ways in which this can be achieved. There will be close to 40 exhibitors ranging from large companies to small entrepreneurs, including a number of international organisations, gyms, and wellness companies. Persons can expect art, body care products, massages, nature-based foods and treatments, prayer and meditation, yoga, physical fitness, vitamins and herbal

treatments, among others. Wellness International Incorporated was created to promote and support initiatives aimed at enhanc-

for 2023, the International Wellness Expo, is aimed at providing abundant evidence of this.”

Among the exhibitors are Iology, dedicated to nurturing holistic well-being and personal growth. Their diverse team of professionals span services such as meditation teacher, life coach, well-being coach, ayurvedic teacher among others.

Meanwhile, Gaia Organics is a Guyanese-owned company which will be offering organic, plantbased food products. It includes 14 plantbased ‘mylks’, 13 coldpressed juices, and four wellness shots –each one with varying benefits.

ing wellness at all levels and strengthen the pursuit of healthy lifestyle choices that advance physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Chief Executive Officer Donald Sinclair shared, “The paths to wellness are as diverse as its pursuit is exciting, our signature event

Competition

The Miss World 2023 pageant is expected to be held on December 8 at the Kashmir International Convention Centre in Srinagar, India, following weeks of activities and opportunities for the contestants to prove themselves worthy of the international title.

“It’s been a long time coming and I’m really excit-

ed to represent Guyana and meet all the other delegation models around the world. Preparation has been great. As I boil down to me leaving, you’re going to know all about my journey,” King said.

At nine-years-old, King participated and won her very first pageant alongside her mother—the Mother and Daughter pageant in the middle category.

Meanwhile, Dawndelion Holistic Store will be promoting holistic healing and nutrition, with the highest quality supplements, detoxes and physiological treatments.

The expo will run from 10:00h to 18:00h at Regency Suites, Hadfield Street, Georgetown. (G12)

FROM PAGE 13

Now, she is set to participate on the global level, against representatives from 93 other countries.

“You can follow me on my Miss World Guyana Facebook page, you can follow me on my Instagram, on Mobstar at Miss World Guyana which is the official voting platform where if you want Guyana to win, like every post and vote, vote, vote,” King added.

$93M De Willem Secondary School commissioned

The $93 million De Willem Secondary School, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) was officially commissioned on Friday, now allowing primary top students attending Saraswati Primary School the opportunity to receive a complete secondary education from a discrete secondary school come Monday.

This new facility is expected to accommodate over 350 learners, and is one of several moves the Education Ministry is making to ensure students countrywide receive secondary-level education that shifts away from “prima-

ry tops” or attending secondary classes in a primary school.

During the commissioning ceremony, Education Minister Priya Manickchand noted that either next week or the following week, students in Lanaballi, Saxacalli, Omorashi and Lower and Upper Bonasika who have all been enrolled in primary tops will be able to attend Leonora Secondary School to attain a discrete secondary education as well. Those students will be housed in dormitories that have been built and are now ready to accommodate students.

“So, when we say getting a secondary education is important, it’s more than just words. When we say to you that we believe education is important, you will see our actions accompanying that building out of schools, training teachers, helping parents get their kids into school, giving textbooks, giving school grants. You will see that in our action,” Manickchand said.

In addition to De Willem Secondary School, new secondary schools will be built at Crane, Tuschen and Nismes to accommodate all of the secondary-aged learners in the region.

Only last week, the

Ministry had also commissioned the Victoria Lily Primary School in Tuschen, aimed to address the space constraints schools in the region have long been tackling.

In addition to the construction of new schools, Minister Manickchand noted that the Ministry is also distributing necessary textbooks and newly-designed exercise books to students and is addressing the need to equip each classroom with a trained teacher.

She explained that before 2021, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) accepted about 530 teachers but now accepts a

few thousand teachers into the college that currently offers both online and in-person instruction.

Due to this online offering, Manickchand said that 2500 students will graduate from CPCE for the first time.

Regional ViceChairperson Omesh Satyanand expressed the Regional Democratic Council’s excitement at this growth in education, particularly in this region where more children attend school.

He further commended the National School Feeding Programme, which includes the National Breakfast Programme and the Juice

and Biscuit Programme.

“[The Ministry, along with its officers and teachers in the classroom] are doing a great job and that is why we are partnering with you to ensure that education delivery is second to none in this country,” Satyanand said.

Also present at the school commissioning ceremony were Regional Executive Officer, Jagnarine Somwar, Regional Education Officer, Akbar Chindu, Assistant Chief Education Officer (Secondary), Tiffany Harvey and Assistant Chief Education Officer (Primary), Rabindra Singh. (G13)

Education Minister Priya Manickchand commissioning the new De Willem Secondary School

HEALTH TIPS

COPING WITH SUNBURNS

* Light skin may turn red, dark skin may change to a darker tone.

Symptoms of severe sunburn can affect the whole body. They include:

* fever * chills

* headache

* nausea and vomiting

* a general feeling of being unwell.

By Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Family meDicine, enDocrinology/DiaBeTes

Sunburn can be painful, and can increase the risk of skin cancer. After-sun creams and cool compresses can soothe the pain of sunburn. Tips for preventing sunburn include applying sunscreen before going out, and wearing clothes that cover the body.

Sunburn is the term for damage caused by overexposure to UV rays from the sun or other sources, such as a sunlamp or tanning bed. Sunburn can vary from mild to severe. Sunburn can cause pain and burning, and according to this 2005 study, it can also increase the risk of skin cancer, wrinkles, brown spots, and freckles. The skin may appear swollen, possibly with blisters.

People with any skin tone can experience sunburn. Fair or lighter skin typically turns pink or red, but dark skin tones may become darker. The extent and severity of sunburn will depend on the person’s skin type and level of exposure to the sun.

RISK FACTORS

A person is more likely to experience sunburn if they have:

* Vitiligo

* Alopecia

* Albinism

* Photosensitivity due to:

* Systemic lupus erythematosus

* Porphyria

* The use of some drugs, such as tetracycline

* Certain genetic conditions

SYMPTOMS OF SUNBURN

A 2005 study explains that, in medical terms, sunburn involves inflammation leading to erythema (a rash) and edema (swelling) due to the buildup of fluids. It also involves changes to skin cells. It triggers the development of sunburn cells, which can become cancerous, and a reduction of mast cells, which play a role in the immune system. The symptoms of sunburn vary between people. Sunburn can affect anyone, but those with lighter skin are more susceptible. Following exposure, the skin may become:

* Hot

* Sensitive to the touch

* Painful

* Irritated

* Itchy

* Blistered

A person with severe sunburn may need medical attention. Heat exhaustion can occur in extreme cases; or, more severely, heatstroke. If a person experiences the following, they should seek immediate medical advice:

* Low blood pressure

* Fainting and dizziness

* Rapid pulse

* General pain throughout the body

* Extreme weakness

* Shallow breathing

* Changes in behaviour, such as irritability, confusion, difficulty thinking, or hallucinations.

A doctor would diagnose heat exhaustion when the core body temperature is higher than usual after sun exposure, but no higher than 104°F (40°C). The core body temperature will be over 104°F (40°C) in a person with heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that needs urgent attention.

TIMELINE

A person can expect the following with sunburn:

* A rash usually appears 2–6 hours after exposure.

* Skin symptoms peak around 12–24 hours after exposure.

* The skin peels and flakes off around 4–7 days later.

TREATMENTS FOR SUNBURN

If sunburn occurs, a person should do the following:

* Get out of the sun, and preferably go indoors.

* Avoid further sun exposure until the sunburn heals.

* Cool the skin with a damp cloth or towel, or take a cool bath.

* Apply moisturizer or after-sun cream, such as aloe vera.

* Take over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

* Apply hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and itching.

* Drink extra water to help prevent dehydration.

* Avoid touching or breaking small blisters to reduce the risk of infection. Blisters protect the skin.

* Avoid scratching, picking at, or removing peeling skin.

* Wear loose-fitting clothing while the skin heals.

In cases of severe sunburn, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids to help reduce inflammation. For severe dehydration or heat stress, intravenous fluids may be recommended.

TURN TO PAGE 22

HEALTH TIPS

COPING WITH SUNBURNS FROM PAGE 21

SUNBURN PREVENTION

The best way for a person to avoid sunburn is to manage the way they expose their skin to sunlight. This includes:

* Sitting in locations with shade

* Wearing clothing that covers the body, and it preferably should be made of tightly woven fabric.

* Wearing a widebrimmed hat

* Protecting the eyes with sunglasses

* Avoiding going out in the hottest part of the day

* Always wearing sunblock of SPF 30+, and reapplying it regularly.

* Considering extra protection for the face, neck, trunk, and parts not usually exposed to the sun.

Some sun exposure is essential for the body to produce vitamin D, but the American Cancer Society does not recommend sun exposure without protection, because of the risk of skin cancer. Instead, it recommends dietary sources, such as fatty fish and fortified foods.

SUNSCREEN

Sunscreens and sunblock are commercial preparations that block UV light when people apply them to the skin. They have an SPF rating based on the sunscreen’s ability to prevent sunburn. The higher the SPF rating, the more protection from UVB rays a person can expect, and the less direct skin damage that should occur.

The sunscreen should also offer protection from UVA radiation. UVA radiation does not cause sunburn, but it does contribute to skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Many sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection, meaning that they protect against both UVA and UVB radia-

tion.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone uses a sunscreen with:

an SPF of 30+, UVA and UVB protection, water resistance

People should apply sunscreen as follows:

* Use plenty to cover the body — most people only use 25–50% of what they need.

* Pay attention to the tops of the ears, the feet, the neck, and other places that are easy to forget.

* Apply 15 minutes before exposure.

* Apply to dry skin.

* Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.

* Use lip balm with SPF 30+.

* Check any instructions on the packaging before use. As concerns grow about damage to the environment, some countries are now banning sunscreens that are not reef-friendly. Sunscreens can be damaging in other ways, too, but some choices are less harmful.

When looking for sunscreen Save the Reef recommends:

* Opting for products that contain micro-sized or non-nanoparticles, as these are less toxic than nanoparticles.

* Using a lotion rather than a spray or misting sunscreen, as lotions are less likely to be harmful to human health.

* Choosing one with the smallest amount of plastic and packaging necessary

* Finding a sunscreen that does not contain the polluting ingredients listed on the HEL list. Home treatments can usually relieve discomfort, but if a person develops a fever, faintness, or changes in consciousness, they need immediate medical attention.

Multimillion-dollar digital X-ray systems installed at Region 6 hospitals

stored on an electronic database which will allow medical practitioners to access patient records at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the country’s main referral hospital, or any other health facility which utilises the same machine.

With digital imaging, radiation is minimal and the X-ray image can be seen from different perspectives.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony has said that this is one of several substantial changes the hospital has seen in recent years, with more infrastructure projects expected to come in the near future.

The Mibicuri Hospital, New Amsterdam Hospital and Port Mourant Hospital in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) on Thursday commissioned new digital X-ray units, thereby advancing the quality of images taken and easing the ability

to send them across healthcare centres for interpretation.

The new system at Mibicuri Hospital is valued at $44 million, with an additional $36 million being spent on civil works for the preparation of the site.

The X-ray images will be

“We have expanded the area for the doctor’s office where they will see patients and those are substantial risk factors, we have added a waiting area essentially during the time of COVID-19 because we didn’t want people to be close to each other and we felt that the waiting area outside was appropriate, we also extended the wards of the hospital,” Anthony said.

At Port Mourant Hospital’s Imaging and Diagnostic Unit, the

Minister noted that close to $60 million has been spent to develop the unit, as the Ministry engages in replacing all analogue X-ray machines with digital ones.

“The region in preparation for this X-ray unit spent approximately $16 million in fixing the electricity to make sure that the facility would be of the standards so that

we can install the instrument,” Anthony explained.

“Then from the Ministry side, we spent $44 million to buy the equipment, the power distribution unit and to also put in the power pack to make sure that if there’s any fluctuation, that it would not affect the unit,” Anthony said.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony assessing a digital X-ray unit at Mibicuri Hospital

Digital X-ray unit at Mibicuri Hospital TURN TO PAGE 24

Nextech gifts 5 customers CPL Final tickets

The raffle was drawn on September 15. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nextech, Rehman Majeed handed over the tickets to the five winning customers.

Nextech is a technology retail company located at 233 Camp Street between Middle and Quamina

Streets (opposite Guyana Revenue Authority).

They offer customers a new and exciting shopping experience for technology products such as laptops, desktops, printing supplies, security equipment, networking equipment and other related technology solu-

tions for home or business. Nextech also offers quality office supplies and stationery. Nextech is an Authorised Partner for Hewlett Packard, APC, Linksys, Logitech amongst other leading technology brands.

Multimillion-dollar digital X-ray...

Five customers who made purchases from Nextech during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) pre-

liminary games have won two tickets each to the Finals set for next week at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

The lucky winners are Dianand Rameshwar Singh, Ronieka Mayers, Lorna April, Dennis Thomas, and Deonarine Dindial.

Regional Chairman David Armogan noted that even with the upgrading of equipment and health facilities across the region, there is still room for improvement in service delivery.

With this, he added that the regional budget was designed to train medical staff as well as consider provisions to deliver better healthcare to the poor and needy.

Meanwhile, at the New Amsterdam Hospital, some $57 million was spent on procuring the digital X-ray machine and constructing the X-ray room in efforts to ensure Berbice residents benefit from faster X-ray services.

EMR

During this commissioning ceremony, Dr Anthony explained that patients will also see the initiation of the Electronic Medical Record

(EMR) system soon whereby their medical history and other key information will be stored in a database that can be accessed by medical professionals at any public health facility that they seek care and treatment from in Guyana.

“In another two weeks, you will see that we are putting out a call for a company to come into Guyana and offer us a solution for how we should computerise our patients’ records. Every patient that comes to the public health system will have a unique identifier and wherever they go they will have a record in the system,” Anthony said.

“So, if you are a patient at New Amsterdam Hospital and decide to go to Georgetown Hospital, they will be able to pull up your records and see everything

FROM PAGE 23

about you medically that is in your records and this is going to help us to be more efficient at how we are managing how patient,” Anthony added.

This system is already being implemented at GPHC as they were rolling out the usage of digitised patient records in its Internal Medicine Medical Clinic in July.

While at the New Amsterdam Hospital, the Health Minister also conducted a walk-through of the Neonatal Department, to ensure that the services being offered are up to the standards set by the Health Ministry.

Among those present at the commissioning ceremonies were Regional Health Officer, Dr Vishalya Sharma; and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, Dr Bob Ramnauth. (G13)

Nextech CEO Rehman Majeed with the five lucky winners

T&T Republic Bank cuts US$ credit card limit in half

T&T’s largest bank, Republic Bank Ltd (RBL), last night advised its customers that it was cutting in half the maximum US dollar spending limit per billing cycle on their Republic Bank credit cards.

In an email notice to its customers, which was reproduced on its website, RBL advised that the US-dollar credit card limit would be reduced from US$10,000 to US$5,000 effective September 21, 2023. The reason for the reduction in the US-dollar credit card limit, which is until further notice, was not provided in last night’s communications.

In its emailed notice, RBL said: “This change includes all transactions conducted outside of T&T as well as all international online transactions, including transactions where the chosen billing currency is TT dollar.

“These online transactions will be included in your US$5,000 billing cycle limit. All local TT-dollar

transactions conducted online or at merchants remain unaffected.

Additionally, RBL said the limit on its pre-paid VTM card would be adjusted downwards effective October 1, 2023. The maximum VTM card balance will be reduced from US$5,000 to US$3,000 while online VTM loads would be reduced from US$1,000 to US$500.

Last night, the decision by Republic to limit the amount of money that can be spent on foreign goods and services was bitterly criticised on WhatsApp groups.

On July 21, RBL increased the daily transaction limit for point-of-sale and e-commerce transactions from $10,000 to $50,000.

The bank said that that meant that transactions done at point-of-sale terminals and via e-commerce, when added together can be as high as $50,000.

“For example, if a point-of-sale transaction is $10,000, then an e-commerce transaction can be as

high as $40,000,” the bank said in a notice.

For the nine months ended June 30, 2023, Republic Financial Holdings Ltd (RFHL), which is the parent company of Republic Bank Ltd, recorded profit attributable to its shareholders of $1.26 billion, which was 10.2 per cent more than it earned

for the same period in the previous financial year.

RFHL operates throughout the region from the Cayman Islands in the north to Suriname in the south and in Ghana.

The bank holding company’s assets totalled $114.4 billion as at June 30, 2023. (T&T Guardian)

Guyana Learning Channel premieres a new show, “The Amazing World of Cho”

The Guyana Learning Channel on Saturday premiered its new show, “The Amazing World of Cho”, to be aired on all the Channel’s platforms.

The premiere took place at the MovieTowne Theatre.

It is an animated show produced by the Guyana Learning Channel that features Cho, an eight-yearold mixed-race girl navigating her culture, youth, and

family relationships in the small village of St Ignatius, Region Nine.

Set against the backdrop of the small village, Cho’s growth is intertwined with her exploration of the traditions, values, and beliefs of her family as she embarks on a heartfelt quest to understand the world around her, all while crafting her own path. Education Minister Priya Manickchand said the

Channel was launched in 2011 under the Presidency of current Vice President, Bharat Jagdeo, whose vision for the Channel was for mass teaching and learning to take place.

“His idea was you could have the best math teacher in Georgetown broadcasting to Mahdia or Lethem or St Ignatius where Cho is from, lessons so that although we couldn’t have the best

math teacher in Lethem, we could have the children see and do the work remotely. And the Channel developed and developed,” Minister Manickchand remarked.

She said the Channel has further developed from 2020 as it moved from zero per cent coverage in the hin-

terland to 85%. She said this was possible because the Ministry gave all the com-

before the end of 2023, 100% of the hinterland communities will have access to the

munities television sets, solar panels and satellite technology. She added that

Guyana Learning Channel to benefit from all its content.

The total number of active drilling rigs in the United States rose by 9 last week, according to new data from Baker Hughes published Friday.

The total rig count rebounded to 641 last week. So far this year, Baker Hughes has estimated a loss of 138 active drilling rigs. Last week’s count is 434 fewer rigs than the rig count at the beginning of 2019 prior to the pandemic.

The number of oil rigs rose by 2 last week to 515, down by 106 so far in 2023. The number of gas rigs rose by 8 last week to 121, a loss of 35 active gas rigs from the start of the year. Miscellaneous rigs fell by 1 last week.

The rig count in the Permian Basin rose by 2 last week—21 rigs below this same time last year. The rig count in the Eagle Ford stayed the same and is 23 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), rose in week ending September 8, to 252, down from 244 in the week prior. The frac spread count is 4 fewer than where it started the year.

Crude oil production levels in the United States rose during the week ending September 8 to 12.9 million bpd, according to the latest weekly EIA estimates—sitting at the highest production level since 2019. US production levels are now up 800,000 bpd versus a year ago.

At 12:07 pm ET on Friday, the WTI benchmark was trading up US$0.55 (+0.61%) on the day at US$90.71—up roughly US$3 per barrel from this time last week. The Brent benchmark was trading up US$0.14 (+0.15%) at US$93.84 per barrel on the day—also up roughly US$3 per barrel from a week ago. (Oilprice.com)

Brazil's President calls US economic embargo on Cuba 'illegal,' condemns terrorist list label

Historic Ukrainian sites in Kyiv and Lviv added to UN danger list

the danger list come after the Ukrainian port city of Odesa was added in Januarynearly a year after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Odesa has come un-

Around the World OIL NEWS US drilling activity ticks up as oil prices rise

Major historical sites in two Ukrainian cities are in danger of destruction due to the war with Russia, the UN’s heritage body UNESCO has said.

They include the iconic Saint Sophia Cathedral in the capital, Kyiv, and the medieval buildings of the city’s Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery site.

The historic centre in the city of Lviv has also been placed on UNESCO’s List of World Heritage in Danger.

It said the conditions to fully protect the sites could not be met.

“Faced with the risk of direct attack, these sites

are also vulnerable to the shockwaves caused by the bombing of the two cities,” the group said its World Heritage Committee had concluded.

It added that the inclusion of the sites on the list was a reminder to UN member states about their responsibility to contribute to their protection and would “open the door” to further financial and technical aid.

Russia has assured the UN that its armed forces are taking “necessary precautions” to prevent damage, though this is disputed by Ukraine.

The latest additions to

der heavy bombardment by Russia in recent months following the collapse of a deal allowing Ukraine to export its grain to the world through the Black Sea. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Turkey could part ways with EU if necessary, Erdogan says

Turkish President

Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that Ankara could “part ways” with the European Union if necessary when asked about the contents of a European Parliament report on Turkey.

The report, adopted earlier this week, said Turkey’s accession process with the 27-member bloc cannot resume under current circumstances and called for the EU to explore “a parallel and realistic framework” for its ties with Ankara.

Turkey has been an official candidate to join the EU for 24 years, but accession talks have stalled in recent

years over the bloc’s concerns about human rights violations and respect for the rule of law.

“The EU is trying to break away from Turkey,” Erdogan told reporters ahead of a trip to the United States. “We will make our evaluations against these developments and if necessary, we can part ways with the EU.”

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said earlier this week that the European Parliament report contained unfounded allegations and prejudices and took “a shallow and non-visionary” approach to the country’s ties with the EU. (Reuters)

On his first trip to Cuba during his third term in office, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the embargo imposed by the United States on the island "illegal" and denounced the island's inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism.

Former US President Donald Trump included the island nation on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, and though the Biden Administration has reversed other Trump-era measures, it has so far not removed Cuba from the list.

"Cuba has been an advocate of fairer global governance. And to this day it is the victim of an illegal economic embargo," Lula said in a speech opening the G77 Summit of developing nations in the capital, Havana. "Brazil is against any unilateral coercive measure. We reject Cuba's inclusion on the list of states sponsoring terrorism."

The comments were

made just hours before Lula left for New York, where he will attend the United Nations General Assembly and have bilateral talks with Biden.

During the Assembly, Brazil is expected to return to its historic position of condemning the embargo on Cuba, one of the motions that is usually voted on every year at the United Nations and passes overwhelmingly. In 2019, during the first year of right-wing Jair Bolsonaro's administration, Brazil voted against the motion along with the United States and Israel.

Lula also used his speech to call once again for the investment promised by developed countries to reduce the impact of climate change, as established in the Paris Agreement, but which has not been fulfilled. The President said that developing countries do not have the same "historical debt" as the rich for global warming.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv is an iconic Ukrainian tourist site that dates back to the 11th century

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, arriving for the G77+ China summit in Havana, Cuba, September 15, 2023

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)

CANCER

Call in favors if it will help free up time to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones. A break will help improve your attitude. Be good to yourself and appreciate those who stand by your side.

Don’t waste time satisfying someone else’s needs. Your happiness depends on following your heart and pursuing something that makes you happy. Put yourself first and you will achieve your goal.

Take a position, lift limitations and drive home your goals. Stay focused on the process and use your skills and passion to help finish what you start. Don’t trust hearsay.

Establish what you want. Refuse to let anger eat up your time and cause you to miss out on an opportunity. Use your intelligence to find unique ways to work with what’s available to you.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Change only what’s necessary. Stick with what you know works and is financially sound. A healthy routine or a trendy new look will boost your morale. Time is on your side. Romance is in the stars.

Pay attention to what things cost before you sign up for something that isn’t budget-friendly. A day trip, social event or creative endeavor will prove inspirational.

Reach out and help someone. How you utilize your time will determine what others think of you. Be a participant instead of an observer, and you will gain respect.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Get a foothold on the latest news. Having all the facts before you act will make the difference between success and failure. Reassess your relationships and adjust whatever isn’t working for you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22Jan. 19)

AQUARIUS

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

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Consider what you want instead of attending to others’ demands. Put your energy into pursuits that enhance your ability to bring in more cash. Don’t let someone else map out your life.

Don’t get angry; change what you don’t like. Use your knowledge and experience to help energize your plans. It’s OK to do things differently or to make financial gain your goal.

Be a good listener. Put your physical needs and personal gain first before you give in to other people’s demands. Make self-esteem a priority. You will achieve your goals.

Pay attention to how you earn and handle money. Don’t share compromising information. Keep others guessing. Someone intrigued by you will become a valuable ally.

Assuria supporting Kares Crossfit October Showdown 2023

Assuria, leading name in the local insurance industry, is excited to announce its strategic sponsorship of the highly-anticipated Kares Crossfit October Showdown 2023.

This Assuria-Crossfit partnership aims to foster brand awareness, create brand synergy, and explore new avenues in the dynamic fitness-focused market.

The Crossfit October Showdown will take place on Sunday October 15th at the Aquatic Centre and National Park, and Kares Crossfit is proud to have the sponsorship backing of Assuria Insurance.

The Kares Crossfit October Showdown will feature: Teams Crossfit competition, a Novice Crossfit com-

petition, and a Strongman Competition. Over 50 athletes from Guyana and across the Caribbean region will participate in this test of strength, and on offer would be more than four million Guyana dollars in cash and prizes.

A ticket to this event costs $1000, and can be obtained at Kares Crossfit, Lotus Hardware, and Fitness Express. Persons are invited to visit "Kares Crossfit Caribbean Championship" social media pages for more information.

DCB names squads for inter-county trials

The Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) on Friday named 33 players to participate in two 50-over trial matches in preparation for the Senior Inter-County Super50 tournament, which will be played in early October.

National wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach will captain one team, while national middle order batsman Akshaya Persaud will captain the other team.

The first trial match will be played on Thursday, September 21, at the GCC ground, while the second match will be played on Saturday, September 23, at the Lusignan ground. Players are asked to be at the venues for 08:15 hours on match days.

The squads are as follows: Imlach’s XI

1. Tevin Imlach - Captain

2. Tagenarine Chanderpaul

3. Raymond Perez

4. Sachin Singh

5. Ronaldo Ali Mohamed

6. Shamar Yearwood

7. Travis Persaud

8. Jeremiah Scott

9. Ashmead Nedd

10. Steven Sankar

11. Zackery Jodah

12. Krisna Singh

13. Nehemiah Hohenkirk

14. Chetram Balgobin

15. Dumuka Nedondo

16. Laurel Parks

Persaud’s XI

1. Akshaya PersaudCaptain

2. Chandrapaul Hemraj

3. Mavendra Dindyal

4. Christopher Barnwell

5. Ushardeva Balgobin

6. Quzim Yusuff

7. Joshua Persaud

8. Devon Lord

9. Reyad Latiff

10. Richie Looknauth

11. Floyd Thomas

12. Carlos La Rose

13. Sherfane Rutherford

14. Bernard Bailey

15. Robin Williams

16. Brandon Jaikarran

17. Matthew Nandu

Event Organiser Jordana Ramsay-Gonsalves and Ashley Layne, Representative of Assuria Insurance

Tevin Imlach will captain the Imlach XI

Akshaya Persaud will captain the President’s XI

Tallawahs move closer to qualification for the final

- after CPL victory over Patriots

were reduced to 40-4 in 7.1 overs by the time Corbin Bosch joined Yannic Cariah at the crease. Cariah produced his first CPL fifty from 34 balls, but received little support, as wickets fell around him.

All hope was lost for the Patriots when Yannick Cariah fell for 65 runs from 40 balls while the score was at 119-8 in 17.1 overs. He had struck eight fours, but the Patriots folded for 119-9 in 17.3 overs.

Da Silva catch at short cover. Reifer, no stranger to the Providence ground, got to work with Shamar Springer, and Springer danced into Cariah, hitting him for a six and then cutting him into the boundary for four in successive deliveries.

Reifer, who looked set for a big score, fell for 28 from 22 balls, but that wicket saw Fabian Allen entering the arena

and taking Corbin Bosch to the cleaners. In the 17th over, he hit Bosch for 23 runs, including three fours and one might six.

Springer and Allen added 62 runs from 28 balls before Springer was run out for 38 from 27 balls. His innings had two sixes and two fours.

Chris Green then came into his second home, the Providence Stadium, and he got

off to a brilliant start with backto-back boundaries off Oshane Thomas. Tallawahs ended on 178-8 in their 20 overs, with Allen unbeaten on 33. The Jamaican franchise added 119 runs in their last 10 overs. Nedd ended with 2-25 in three overs, while Linde had 2-33 in four overs.

Defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs have returned to their winning ways in the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, and have edged closer to qualification for the final with a 59-run win against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots under glorious sunshine at the National Stadium at Providence, EBD.

With the game being watched mostly by school children, Tallawahs posted 178-7 in their 20 overs, before reducing the Patriots to 119-9 in 17.3 overs. Ashmead Nedd was unable to bat for the Patriots, due to injury.

In their quest for the win, the Patriots were reduced to 37-2 within six overs. Evin Lewis (02) and Andre Fletcher (11) were sent back by the Pakistani duo of Mohammad

Amir and Imad Wasim respectively. Will Smeed failed to score more than a-run-aball, and was dismissed for 13 from 14 balls. And the Patriots slumped further when Guyanese Sherfane Rutherford made only one run, being brilliantly caught by Chris Green, who took a screamer off his own bowling.

Already at the bottom of the points table, the Patriots

The Tallawahs produced a collective bowling effort in which Imad Wasim ended with 3-25 in four overs, while Amir was the best bowler with 4-19 in three overs.

Having earlier won the toss, the Tallawahs had opted to bat first. They had a rough start, being reduced to 31-2 in the powerplay.

Ashmead Nedd started the ball rolling by picking up two wickets in his first CPL game at home. He removed Brandon

Patriots

b Mohammad Amir 11

Evin Lewis (c)c McKenzie

b Imad Wasim 2

Will Smeed c †Brooks

b Springer 13

Yannic Cariah c Reifer

b Mohammad Amir 65

Sherfane Rutherford c & b Green 1

Corbin Bosch c sub

(J Blackwood) b Imad Wasim 10

George Linde c †Brooks

b Mohammad Amir 11

Benny Howell c Reifer

b Imad Wasim 0

Sheldon Cottrell not out 0

Oshane Thomas b

Mohammad Amir 0

King (08) and Kirk McKenzie (01), but his final over in the powerplay yielded 17 runs.

Left-arm spinner George Linde then took two wickets in two balls when he removed the dangerous Alex Hales for 17 and Imad Wasim for a golden duck. Tallawahs were 32-4 after 6.4 overs, and 59-4 at the half-way stage.

Shamarh Brooks and Raymon Reifer, in a rebuilding effort, took the score to 65-5 in 11 overs. Brooks made 19 before he was removed by Yannic Cariah off a stunning Joshua

ov), 6-107

(Raymon Reifer, 15.1 ov), 7-169

(Shamar Springer, 19.3 ov) •

DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Sheldon Cottrell 4-1-21-0

Ashmead Nedd 3-0-25-2

George Linde 4-0-33-2

Corbin Bosch 2-0-30-0

Benny Howell 2-0-12-0

Yannic Cariah 2-0-19-1

Oshane Thomas 3-0-33-1

St Kitts And Nevis Patriots (T: 179 runs from 20 ovs)

Andre Fletcher †c †Brooks

Ashmead Nedd absent hurt

Extras (b 2, lb 2, w 2) 6

TOTAL 17.3 Ov (RR: 6.80) 119

Fall of wickets: 1-4

(Evin Lewis, 1.3 ov), 2-14

(Andre Fletcher, 2.5 ov), 3-39

(Will Smeed, 6.4 ov), 4-40

(Sherfane Rutherford, 7.1 ov), 5-84

(Corbin Bosch, 13.6 ov), 6-104

(George Linde, 15.6 ov), 7-119

(Benny Howell, 16.6 ov), 8-119 (Yannic Cariah, 17.1 ov), 9-119

(Oshane Thomas, 17.3 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Mohammad Amir 3.3-0-19-4

Imad Wasim 4-0-25-3

Shamar Springer 2-0-12-1

Chris Green 4-0-23-1

Fabian Allen 3-0-26-0

Nicholson Gordon 1-0-10-0

Jamaica Tallawahs have one more preliminary game to play. They will meet St Lucia Kings today, Sunday September 17, from 10:00h at Providence. A win for the Tallawahs would strengthen their title defense chances.

Jamaica Tallawahs were clinical

Shamar Springer scored 38 from 27 balls

Warriors beat TKR in CPL game at packed Providence Stadium

The Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) have maintained their supreme record over arch-rivals Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) with a six-wicket win at a packed Guyana National Stadium at Providence on Saturday evening.

In this top-of-the-table clash, a preview for next week’s first qualifier, TKR rested six big names and still posted 176-8, with Keacy Carty scoring 83 from 49 balls, while all the other TKR batsmen produced a combined score of 82 off 71 balls. In reply, Warriors reached 177-4 in 18.2 overs.

In the Warriors chase, Odean Smith was promoted to open with run machine Saim Ayub. The duo took Warriors to 56 without loss in the powerplay, with Ayub playing beautiful shots all around the stadium. However, the pocket-rocket was the first to be dismissed, for a shot-filled 37 from 24 balls in an innings laced with five fours and two sixes.

Shai Hope came to the

crease with Warriors on 56-1 after 6.2 overs, and Smith, who was dropped four times, powered his way to a 32-ball 44. His innings had three sixes and four fours. After Smith had done the damage in the 61-run stand with Hope, the Warriors were at 117-2 in 12.4 overs.

Homeboy Shimron

Hetmyer’s stay at the crease was a brief one, with him being caught at cover off parttime bowler Mark Deyal for two.

Azam Khan came to the crease at 126-3, and he got off the mark with a boundary off the first ball he faced. The packed Providence stadium was rocking to the good vibes while the TKR fielding was poor. Hope reached yet another fifty, this time in 33 balls, to help Warriors secure another solid win.

Hope ended on 54 from 37 balls in an innings laced with three sixes and two fours.

The Warriors had earlier won the toss and opted to bowl first. Matthew Nandu was the only change for the Warriors, with Junior Sinclair returning to the starting XI. CPL had also

announced, prior to the game, that Kevin Sinclair has left the CPL this season for personal reasons.

TKR made six big changes, resting their top guns

Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Ali Khan, Waqar Salamkheil and Lorcan Tucker. Junior Sinclair made an important breakthrough when he ran out Martin Guptill (01) with a direct hit, reducing TKR to 5-1 in the second over. Mark Deyal was going all guns blazing as he struck eight fours. He played a poor shot and was caught at the wicket off Keemo Paul with the TKR score at 46-2 in 4.5 overs.

TKR were 49-2 at the powerplay, when Keacy Carty joined Chadwick Walton - a former Guyana Amazon Warrior who looked at home at Providence while Carty was finding his groove. At the half-way stage, TKR were 73-2, and

Walton and Carty took TKR to safety with a 59-run partnership. Walton made 25 from 27 balls, while Carty stepped on the gas. In the process, Warriors lost Paul, who pulled up with an injury and left the field.

Carty, playing his first game for TKR, and his second game in T20 cricket, went to stroke seven classy fours and four sweet sixes in his 49-ball 83.

Captain Pollard was trapped for nine by Romario

Shepherd, and thereafter

TKR lost six wickets for 67 runs, while Odean Smith went for 50 runs in three wicket-less overs. Tahir was virtually unplayable with 3-12 from his four overs,

as TKR posted 176-8 in 20 overs. The Warriors will return to action today, Sunday September 17, from 19:00h against Barbados Royals at Providence.

SCOREBOARD

Trinbago Knight Riders (20 ovs maximum)

Martin Guptill run out (Sinclair) 1

Mark Deyal c †Azam Khan b Paul 37

Chadwick Walton

†b Imran Tahir 25

Keacy Carty st †Azam Khan

b Imran Tahir 83

Kieron Pollard (c)

lbw b Shepherd 9

Kadeem Alleyne run out

(Hope/Imran Tahir) 2

Akeal Hosein c Sinclair

b Imran Tahir 2

Samit Patel not out 1

Terrance Hinds c sub

(KA Anderson) b Pretorius 1

Jaden Carmichael not out 4

Extras (b 1, lb 4, w 6) 11

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.80) 176/8

Fall of wickets: 1-5

(Martin Guptill,

Odean Smith delivered the goods after being promoted to open

Keemo Paul pulled up with injury and left the field

Imran Tahir’s bowling was superb

Keacy Carty was all class on debut for TKR