Guyana Times -Wednesday, September 6, 2023.pdf

Netherlands company licensed to implement number portability service in Guyana

…PUC says launch date "imminent", as critical testing ongoing

Netherlands-based company Porting

XS has been selected as the clearing house for providing number portability administrative services in Guyana. Being licensed now moves the country within inches of implementing the highly-anticipated number switching services.

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) made this announcement in a statement on Tuesday, ahead of the imminent launch of number portability in Guyana.

Number portability, when implemented, would allow subscribers to switch service providers while retaining their existing telephone numbers. Central to the technical process was the clearinghouse service provider, which is now checked off.

The PUC informed, “The clearinghouse provider will manage the central database with telephone numbers, and technically manage which numbers may be ported upon the request of the consumer.”

The critical stage of live testing of numbers among the service providers is now a daily exercise. According to the PUC, this testing component is an involved science which includes, but is not limited to, the interconnection with the clearinghouse provider; exchange of telephone numbers for porting

tests, and certification of every completed test.

Configuration of the routing of calls when a number is ported to another service provider, and testing of short message signals (SMS) during the porting processes all form the basis for the best practices towards a seamless number portability regime in Guyana.

Launch Initially, authorities were working to have this system implemented by July. The PUC has admitted that this was stymied by the delay in the licensing of the clearinghouse provider and the completion of multiple detailed processes, especially the numerous porting tests between the service providers. However, consumers were notified.

“The Commission wishes to assure the public

that it continues to actively participate and monitor each testing phase, and that we remain committed to ensuring the successful implementation of number portability. We at the Commission understand that an assigned telephone number, especially mobile numbers, have evolved, and it has become synonymous with a person’s identity as a recovery contact for social media and other electronic platforms. As we strive to make number portability a reality in Guyana, please be assured that we will continue to provide the general public with updates and, ultimately, the new launch date.”

The introduction of the number portability system in Guyana was first announced in May by Chairperson of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Dela Britton. She

had explained that the PUC has the statutory mandate to implement number portability in Guyana.

As regulator for the telecommunications sector, the PUC is responsible for implementation and general oversight of the number portability process in Guyana. To this end, the Commission has established a Number Portability Working Group (NPWG) to oversee the process.

The Working Group is chaired by a member of the Commission and comprises representatives from all the telecommunications service providers: namely, GTT Incorporated, Digicel and ENet, together with the Telecommunications Agency.

The Telecommunications Agency has the responsibility of processing telecommunications licences, issuance of telephone numbers, and the regulation of spectrum used for both mobile and wireless radio communication.

Currently, the phone service providers in Guyana are GTT, Digicel and E-Net. Another telecoms provider, Green Gibraltar, had received its licence in 2022. It is a 100 per cent Guyanese-owned company established in 2019.

Reports indicate that Guyana has 745,689 mo-

bile subscribers; 97,179 landline subscribers, and 123,856 fixed internet subscribers.

Liberalisation journey

After entering office in 2020, the PPP/C Government heralded the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector shortly after. The advent of liberalisation brought with it the prospect of better quality of service, competitive rates, better prices, and better choices.

Number portability, according to the PUC, is perhaps the key drive of liberalisation with the intended competition and enhanced consumer choice.

In 1990, the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) was granted a licence by the Government of Guyana, giving the company a monopoly on landline services and international outbound and inbound calls in Guyana.

However, no provision was made in the licence for monopoly operations of mobile voice services. In 2007, U-Mobile (Guyana) Inc, trading as Digicel, entered the Guyana market and was granted a licence to operate mobile voice services, signalling competition in the mobile market.

On October 5, 2020, when the Telecommunications Act No. 18 of 2016 became effective, creating an au-

tomatic termination of GT&T’s monopoly designation, the telecommunications sector entered into an era of new possibilities. The concept of liberalisation was finally realised.

The Government of Guyana granted new licences to the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company Limited and U-Mobile (Cellular), and also issued a licence to a third operator, E-Networks, all of which have expanded the Public Utilities Commission’s (PUC’s) regulatory reach.

On October 23, 2020, by the requisite publication in the Official Gazette, seven accompanying telecommunications regulations became effective: Licensing and Frequency Authorisation; Spectrum Management; Universal Access and Universal Services; Interconnection and Access; Pricing; Consumer Protection, and Competition. As a consequence of this, competition was increased, and modern (4G and beyond) service is being extended to previously underserved areas. Competition is driving innovation, as companies move to improve service and keep/acquire customers.

Operators are investing in networks to provide modern and up-to-date services to the Guyanese public in order to win and retain customers. (G12)

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, Sep 6 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Thursday, Sep 7 – 22:00h – 23:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, Sep 6 – 08:50h –10:20h and Thursday, Sep 7 –10:10h – 11:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 08:47h and 21:00h reaching maximum heights of 2.3 metres and 2.32 metres.

Low Tide: 14:33h reaching a minimum height of 0.98 metre.

Newly-commissioned $200M school at Tuschen to address overcrowding in Region 3

LOTTERY NUMBERS

The Victoria Lily Primary School in Tuschen, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) was officially commissioned on Tuesday, and aims to address the space constraints schools in the region have long been tackling.

Built for less than $200 million, the new building is expected to accommodate 330 students and includes 12 classrooms, each with Wi-Fi routers, an auditorium, an air-conditioned staff room, principal’s office and sick bay, and a washroom and ramps for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Fire prevention measures have also been considered in the 9000 square feet facility, with each classroom sealed with sheetrock, each door coated with epoxy, and the prevalence of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand explained that even prior to the current Government coming into office, overcrowding was a concern for these students.

“So much so that [students] were on shift, which means the children of the school were not getting education like the rest of the country from 08:30h to 15:00h for five days of the week, and that immediately put them at a disadvantage,” Manickchand said.

This overcrowding issue has only exacerbated with the influx of migrants into the region, as over 750 migrant children are now expected to receive placement, Manickchand added.

As such, Guyana is seeing what the Minister referred to as the most massive infrastructure build-out in education thus far.

“From about March to August, we had designed, gone out for public tender and broken ground in over seven secondary schools,” Manickchand said.

President Dr Irfaan Ali explained that the Government has embarked on an ambitious plan to build two new facilities in the region by the next

school term.

These are a 30,000 square feet school in Crane to accommodate about 1000 students and at 1200 square feet one in Nismes to accommodate about 600 students.

“You will notice that these are all new housing areas so when we build houses and new housing communities, we are also creating demands in other areas like education. Higher levels of education are not achieved

without important support services, like roads, drainage, healthcare, nutritional

programmes,” Ali said.

TURN TO PAGE 5

Newly-commissioned Victoria Lily Primary School

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Reformation through rehabilitation & reintegration

Reducing reoffending prisoners is the aim of prisons around the world, though reformation through rehabilitation and reintegration is one of the most difficult and challenging tasks for any correctional service.

Here, in Guyana, Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, on Tuesday explained that “the prison has an obligation and mandate to provide prisoners with skills to facilitate their reintegration into society”, while adding that “the prisons’ task is to help the inmates realise their mistakes and become better individuals.”

To quote the prisons’ director: “The various programmes are just another phase to assist and strengthen the rehabilitation of inmates that are currently incarcerated. The programmes also signify the important step that the Prison Service is taking to fully rehabilitate the inmates.”

We must commend the Prison Service for the work done with the 72 inmates housed at the Timehri Prison, who completed a three-month training course - information technology, welding literacy, culinary art, wellness and success and electrical installation - aimed at preparing them for employment upon their release from incarceration.

As this newspaper has said before, there is absolutely no excuse for the commission of criminal acts, but there is great scope for redemption and rehabilitation of prisoners.

Indeed, there are many factors behind crime, but we agree there is importance in reducing recidivism.

Most young people who have been inculcated with a moral compass and consequently adhere to discipline would adjust accordingly, but there are some youths who have no guiding force or role model pointing them in the right direction. This group finds it preferable to pick up a weapon and try to extract quick riches from the unwary, even if they have to kill to obtain the spoils of their forays into criminality.

They subsequently most often become hardened criminals who have no compunction for their actions, and often display no compassion for their victims, indiscriminately depriving them of their property, money and lives without thinking of the devastation they wreak on the families, especially vulnerable dependents such as elderly parents and children.

Having perfected the art of escape after the execution of their crimes, oftentimes when they are caught after a long career of theft and murder, they are treated as ‘first-time offenders’, figuratively rapped on the knuckles by bleeding hearts of some judicial officials and slapped with minimum punishment.

Incarceration, especially with hard labour, is meant to act as a deterrent to engagement in criminal activities in civil societies, and this should ideally work concurrently with rehabilitation, to reintegrate prisoners into families, communities, and the society at large. It is the general consensus that prisoners should be treated humanely. They were caught committing their crimes, while many criminals have been getting away without discovery.

During his tenure, retired Director of Prisons, Dale Erskine, created synergies to make the prison system more aligned to rehabilitation, rather than punishment. He incorporated new programmes in the prison system to create a dynamic in which prison was no longer somewhere merely to lock away people found guilty of aberrant behaviour, but where the inmates could be guided, directed, and encouraged to change their thinking and attitude into more positive, achievement-oriented directions.

One of the programmes that the Guyana Prison Service has is the identification and employment of a skilled bank of prisoners who were at least risk of escaping or engaging in additional criminal activities.

The prisoners are enabled to earn an income, part of which provided for their own needs and the needs of relatives, including young children left defenceless as their mothers struggle to take care of their prerequisites for survival.

However, there are those who are considered beyond human redemption, because they have become so hardened in their hearts that opportunities for atonement go abegging. In those cases, protective services have to be vigilant that those persons are completely assured of their restored sense of right and wrong, and their intention to adhere to the laws of the land.

According to the GPS, in 2022, 1,400 inmates were trained in block making, basic agriculture, and culinary arts. This is commendable of the GPS, as these individuals can provide for themselves after they are released.

Respect due to farmers

By LLoyd B Smith

Contrary to the popularly-held view that prostitution is the world's oldest profession, most historians have contended that farming (agriculture) preceded that particular activity and some have even gone further to suggest that women were, in fact, the first farmers, in that, while the men were out busily hunting for meat, their female mates were tending to the fields or taking care of livestock.

In today's Jamaica, farming is a widespread activity involving both men and women, with the latter showing a great deal of resilience and stick-to-itiveness as is the case with that celebrated St Elizabeth female farmer who dared to ask Prime Minister Andrew Holness for a donkey to help transport her produce along not easily traversed roads. More power to her!

In the meantime, it can be said without much contradiction that a nation that is unable to sufficiently feed its people will never be economically independent and, sadly, Jamaica is in such a quandary. According to a Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Executive Summary on Jamaica's National Food

and Nutrition Security Policy, "Low food production and high dependency on food imports combine to confront Jamaica with an unprecedentedly high and rising food import bill (FIB) and a worrying food security vulnerability to external economic shocks and climate change. Most of the food consumed in Jamaica is imported either raw or semi-processed for final processing, while a small and declining portion comes from national/regional production. At the same time a large and rising proportion of the final cost of that food to consumers is taken up by services - manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and marketing costs."

The war in Ukraine and natural disasters, such as hurricanes and prolonged drought caused mainly by factors relating to climate change, is most surely forcing this nation to come face to face with the harsh consequences of its high dependence on food imports. This situation, says the executive summary, also renders Jamaica more vulnerable to external economic shocks. So when, for example, there is drought or severe flooding in certain countries that are part of our supply chain, the prices of wheat, corn, and sug -

ar jump to new highs on the world market, leading to similar increases in the national food import bill. "And the cost of local chicken and domestically produced livestock soars because Jamaica imports the raw materials (corn, coarse grains, and soybeans) that are the basis of the animal feeds on which they are fed."

The late Michael "Joshua" Manley was on the right path way back in the 70s when he introduced the "eat what you grow" campaign and encouraged local farmers to produce more. Older Jamaicans will recall the Hounslow in St Elizabeth and Mafoota in St James experimentations which ultimately failed because of poor management and the harsh reality that the average Jamaican sees farming as a degrading and non-profitable pastime reminiscent of slavery. Let's face it, farming is hard work, involving, many times, blood, sweat, and tears. It means getting dirty and sweaty and it also means being the victim of praedial larceny!

In the case of Hounslow and Mafoota, it is alleged that many young men who were lured into farming ended up using the funds they received to buy fancy motorcycles, 'profile' in

their communities to attract girls, and plant ganja at a time when that was a totally illegal activity, but then it was far more lucrative than growing dasheen and cassava or bananas. Of course, given the rugged individualism of most Jamaicans, farming in a cooperative setting was a no-no from the start.

And the harsh truth is that farming on small plots of land cannot collectively produce enough food to feed the nation.

Edward Seaga pursued another path with aloe vera in Trelawny and that Springs Plain irrigation fiasco in Clarendon which, again, exposed the lack of political will and private sector involvement to give agriculture that quantum leap it is yet to receive.

Meanwhile, it pains my heart, when I drive around Jamaica, to see the thousands of acres of arable lands lying idle. Then there is the recurring travesty of putting up housing schemes on lands that are more suitable for farming.

Many decades ago, in the 70s, when the late Cuban President Fidel Castro visited Jamaica, he lamented this practice and warned against it, but, alas, it continues to this day unabated.

(Jamaica Observer)

Emirati elite aerobatic flying team Fursan Al Emarati of the United Arab Emirates Air Force performs during the aviation event 11th Athens Flying Week over Tanagra air base in Schimatari, north of Athens, Greece (AFP)

Additional compulsory hours, AI to address students’ low Maths scores

Given the 34 per cent pass rate in Mathematics during the recent Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the Government will be embarking on a comprehensive strategy to improve performance in the core subject.

The President made these remarks on Tuesday during the commissioning of the Victoria Lily Primary School in Tuschen, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

“Because of our concern about our performance in Mathematics, I had some initial conversations with

the Education Minister and I’m of the view that perhaps, we need to, in a very targeted manner, create additional hours for Mathematics in the sec -

ondary school system, especially at the exam level – additional compulsory hours,” Ali said.

He added that efforts will also be made to con -

sider available tools in Artificial Intelligence (AI) that can be incorporated into the school curriculum to deliver better learning outcomes in the subject.

“Because we cannot continue with the existing pass rates in mathematics, it is unacceptable, and we must change it and we will change it,” Ali said.

“So, we are going to see in the next two weeks, the Ministry deploying a comprehensive strategy to address the issue of Mathematics,” Ali said.

Results for CSEC and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) were released on August 24, with Guyana recording slight dips in its overall performance this year.

Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain had made this announcement when the results were officially released by the Education Ministry

at the Anna Regina Multilateral School (ARMS) on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Across the country, a total of 12,118 students sat the CSEC examinations, an increase from 10,368 in 2022. There were 75,764 entries. Overall, the pass rate was 65 per cent this year, a decline from 68.5 per cent last year.

Though stable performances were noted in English Language, Mathematics, Technical Drawing, Caribbean History, and Economics, the pass rate for Mathematics was still low, at 34 per cent, while the pass rate for Additional Mathematics was 60 per cent. (G13)

Indians were also chattel slaves

Dear Editor, Some commentators are of the view that the horrors suffered by Africans and Indians during their periods of forced labour – slavery and indentureship respectively - can’t be compared. They say slavery is more oppressive than indentureship, and that indentured Indians were not property to be disposed of like chattel African slaves.

But slavery is not unique to Africans. Not many are aware that Indians were also enslaved (not just indentured slavery, but manumitted slavery as well), and there were also indentured Africans who were not chattel slaves. Indians, too, were chattel slaves who were bought and sold as property or commodities.

Anyone who studied slavery would know that all racial groups experienced or were engaged in some form of slavery before the European pow-

ers captured people and made them slaves. Indians, too, endured chattel enslavement, though not in the Caribbean. No Caribbean write-up has been done on Indian slavery (as yet). This is mentioned so that historians and social scientists may further explore the subject.

The slavery of Indians is a new phenomenon that is now being investigated by Indian and other historians. Slavery existed long before the Europeans institutionalised and legalised it during their colonisation. Africans enslaved fellow Africans, and Indians enslaved fellow Indians. The Europeans and Chinese (Mongoloids) also had slavery. The Aztecs, Mayans, and Incans also had slavery.

The Europeans not only enslaved Africans – chattel slavery – post Columbus, they enslaved Indians from (South) India long before

the introduction of indentureship in 1828, in Reunion Island (French territory).

Indian slavery is a relatively new revelation. Indian slavery began in 1500s, and had remained a hidden secret for a long time until a PhD student from Leiden University uncovered it in 2008 while inadvertently examining documents from the Dutch East India Company when writing a dissertation. The number of Indians who were slaves is not known.

Documents on Indian slavery were destroyed in war and by fire. At a minimum, researchers uncovered that tens of thousands of Indians were slaves. Hundreds died during their transportation.

Newly-commissioned $200M school...

Spanish curriculum

Meanwhile, the Victoria Lily Primary School will be one of the first schools to integrate Spanish into its curriculum.

Ali, who delivered his opening remarks in Spanish, noted that new Spanish learners being enrolled in Guyana’s school systems brings not only challenges, but also opportunities for growth.

“So, in this region, particularly, we need to improvise in our education system in a way in which

FROM PAGE 3

we ensure that the children, many of whom are migrants, are not locked out of the education system because of language barriers and deficiency,” Ali said.

“This community is one of the communities that is now heavily and highly influenced by the influx of the migrant population and the [return] of Guyanese back here. So, for that reason, the structural move to having the integration of Spanish is very, very important,” Ali added. (G13)

Portugal, Holland, France and Britain all fought wars at sea and on land for control of territories on the Indian sub-continent. At various times, when in control (except the British), they introduced or practised enslavement of Indians. They took Indian slaves to various territories. They induced famine, causing some Indians to prefer slavery (whence they obtained free meals) than starve to death. The British, in particular, were also known to induce famine to cause helpless poor Indians to agree to indentureship during the 1800s.

South Asian (to distinguish from American) Indian slavery is only recently being documented, it is not yet widely known, and has not made its way as yet in Indian curriculum at universities and public schooling. No mass media in the Caribbean carried such news. Newspapers and academic journals recently began carrying articles on the topic.

Articles were published

about European Indian slavery in Indian newspapers last August 23, a day celebrated as International Slavery Day. Studies conducted by PhD students and other scholars recently uncovered documents that reveal that it was the Portuguese who introduced slavery of Indians in the 1500s. This was followed by the Dutch in the 1600s and the French (dates not mentioned). Confer the work of Wil O Dijk, a Dutch researcher. An Indian slave was sold at between four and forty guilders (Dutch currency) during the early 1600s. During famine, the availability of Indian slaves was plentiful, and the price of an Indian slave, treated as a commodity to be sold, dropped considerably. The papers stated that “India was the slave trade capital” though the total number of slaves shipped from India is not known.

If one Googles ‘Pulicat’, dozens of articles pertaining to Indian slavery pops up. No research as yet has uncovered British involvement in Indian slavery other than references to “indentureship slavery” that the British began in 1834 in Mauritius, and introduced in Guyana in 1838. The French were the ones who first initiated indentureship from South India to Reunion.

But before indentureship, according to researcher Jean Regis, who studied the subject, the French were engaged in Indian slavery - Indian enslavement in Reunion Island.

The French recognized the profitability of Indian slavery and indentureship and implemented both. Studies by Mr Jean Regis and other scholars reveal that at one time Reunion had both African and Indian slavery; in addition, Indian indentureship ex-

isted side by side with chattel Indian and African slavery.

Over the last few years, more and more articles on Indian slavery have appeared on the internet. It is unnecessary to repeat what can be found on the internet. Indian slaves were sent to several Asian territories and islands in neighbouring territories in Asia. Slavery also existed on board the ships owned by

Europeans.

The story of African slavery is still being told, as Eusi Kwayana informs us (Sep 2).

Indian slavery, known to exist since the 1500s, is a relatively new subject that is being researched, and much academic investigation needs to be done.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

Foundation

Sets cont’d

(CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY)

BY HARRIET MONROE

Ah! bid him beware! beware! And the forests, heavy and dark and deep With the shadows of shrouded years, In a murmurous voice, out of age-long sleep, Ask the winds : What creature rude Would storm our solitude?

Hath his soul no fears, no tears?

The prone rivers lift up their snow-crowned heads, Arise in wrath from their rock-hewn beds, And roar: We will ravage and drown Ere we float his white ships down. And the lakes, from a mist Of amethyst, Call the storm-clouds down, and grow ashen and brown. And all the four winds wail: Our gales shall make him quail. By blinding snow, by burning sun His strength shall be undone.

Then men in league with these— Brothers of wind and waste— Hew barbs of flint, and darkly haste

From sheltering tents and trees; And mutter: Away! away!

Ye children of white- browed day! Who dares profane our wild gods’ reign

In this fun and easy botany and biology science experiment for kids, we’re going to explore sprouting seeds.

Materials:

Sponge Shallow dish Seeds

Magnifying dish

Instructions:

Place the sponge in the shallow

dish.

Add water to the dish. Make sure the sponge remains above the water level.

Sprinkle seeds on the sponge and push them gently into the sponge. Place the seeds in a sunny location for three or four days.

Observe the seeds for cracking and sprouting with your magnifying glass.

How it works:

By placing the seeds on the

sponge instead of in soil, we are able to observe the seeds sprouting. The water in the sponge will trigger the seeds to begin sprouting.

Make this a science project: Try different types of seeds. Try placing the seeds on the sponge in a dark space. Try placing the seeds on the sponge in the refrigerator. (sciencefun.org)

We torture and trap and slay. Child of the light, the shadows fall in vain. Herald of God, in vain the powers conspire. Armed with truth’s holy cross, faith’s sacred fire, Though often vanquished, he shall rise again, Nor rest till the wild lords of earth and air Bow to his will, his burdens glad to bear. The angels leave him not through the long strife, But sing large annals of their own wide life, Luring him on to freedom. On that field, From giants won, shall man be slave to man? Lo! clan on clan, The embattled nations gather to be one, Clasp hands as brothers ’neath Columbia’s shield, Upraise her banner to the shining sun. Along her blessed shore— One heart, one song, one dream Man shall be free forevermore, And love shall be supreme.

TO BE CONTINUED

WORD SEARCH

Guyana can be a case study for world on religious tolerance – Pres Ali

Pointing to the peaceful coexistence of Islam among other religions in Guyana, and the multi-cultural diversity from the Government straight down to the Private Sector, President Dr Irfaan Ali believes Guyana can be a case study for the world on religious tolerance.

Guyana is currently hosting a two-day symposium on the cultural and historical legacy of Islam in the Caribbean. During the opening day, on Monday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali gave the feature address, wherein he noted the multi-culturalism of the region and particularly Guyana.

According to Ali, a defining feature of Islam in Guyana has been its peaceful coexistence with other religions. He further urged the creation of a paper that would explore the history of Muslims in the Caribbean. In fact, the President noted that Guyana can be a case study for religious integration and multiculturalism.

“In Guyana, where the symposium is being held, we have the greatest example in the way we live, the way we collaborate and cooperate, the way we respect each other when it comes to religious tolerance, and also religious integration. And Guyana can be that case study for the rest of the world,” he said.

“Where persons of different faiths make up the cabinet, the Parliament, the bureaucracy, the Private Sector, and the seamless integration through which each supports the other, is one which not only warrants attention, but a case study,” he said.

In the President’s opinion, one factor that has contributed to this integration is the common challenges these groups have faced. He also noted that Muslims, despite the challenges they’ve faced, have managed to hold on to their cultural identity.

“Despite facing daunting challenges, Muslims managed to preserve their faith, culture and traditions, while simultaneously becoming an integral part of Caribbean societies. Within the historical narrative of Islam’s presence in this region, there exists valuable lessons of resistance and resilience that warrant attention,” he said.

Looking at the region, President Ali urged the symposium to recognize the multiculturalism of the Caribbean region. He further noted that Islam has had a presence in the Caribbean for centuries, due to both slavery and indentureship.

“I first want us to recognize that this region is multi-ethnic and multi-cultural in nature. So, our deliberations must take into consideration the makeup of this region. This diversity, as you know, is a legacy of our colonial history. The Spanish, the Dutch, the English and French battled for control of the islands and lands of the region.

These colonizing powers

Dr Amit Telang is India’s new High Commissioner to Guyana

Dr Amit Shivkumar Telang has been appointed the new Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, and will be assuming this position shortly. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the External Affairs Ministry of India.

The diplomat currently serves as the Consul General of India in Frankfurt, Germany. On social media, he shared, “After a fulfilling three-year stint in Germany, it will be a privilege to represent my country in Guyana - a country and people with whom we have historical links and warm and friendly relations.”

than 4500 are at Indian universities. The Asian country had also provided training for members of the local Police and Defence Forces.

have shaped the region’s diversity, but none more so than the introduction of African enslavement and Indian indentureship. It was under both of these systems that Muslims were introduced to the Caribbean,” the President said.

The symposium is being held from September 4-6 at the Arthur Chung Conference Center, and will delve into various topics, including the arrival of Muslims in the Caribbean, their religious practices and institutions, the impact of their presence on the regional society, and their contributions to the development of the Caribbean nations.

The symposium will also feature a multidisciplinary programme consisting of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and paper presentations encouraging participants to engage in thoughtful discourse and exchange of ideas.

Guyana has been increasing its bilateral and economic ties with Islamic countries. Earlier this year, Guyana inaugurated its embas-

sy in Qatar in a move that President Ali had said would help both countries embark on a journey of enhanced bilateral relations.

In February this year, it was also announced that Guyana would be receiving help with the oil and gas sector from Qatar. Specifically, Qatar would be helping Guyana create a gas utilization and monetization plan which will be applicable when the gas-to-energy project is commissioned.

And in October of last year, after several months of waiting, a US$120 million loan that the Government had sought for resurfacing the Soesdyke-Linden Highway was approved by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).

Prior to that approval, a team from the ISDB had visited Guyana on an appraisal mission for the loan request. The IsDB team was led by Atiq Ahmad, Lead Global Transport Specialist – Economic and Social Infrastructure Department, General Directorate for Global Practices & Partnerships of the IsDB. (G3)

Dr Telang graduated and earned his Master’s degree from Government Medical College in Nagpur, and briefly served as a Medical Officer and as a Lecturer before joining Government Service in 2004 - first in the Indian Revenue Service, and later the Indian Foreign Service in 2005. He previously served as Head of the Political Wing in the Indian Embassy in Berlin, and subsequently as Head of the Economic and Commercial Wing of the Indian Embassy in Moscow, Russia. At the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, he has served in the External Publicity Division, Administration Division, and East Asia Division. His inter-

ests include classical music and reading, especially philosophy and world history. He speaks English and German.

Dr Amit Shivkumar Telang replaces Dr K J Srinivasa, who wrapped up his stint as Indian High Commissioner in Guyana last month. Under the leadership of Dr Srinivasa, Guyana and India have not only deepened ties, but the diplomat also played an important part in introducing practices such as yoga to the Guyanese populace, and has also fostered greater collaboration in the areas of trade.

Guyana and India have partnered in many projects, and in recent years, India has been providing both technical and financial support to Guyana. One major aspect of collaboration between the two countries is that of education.

Of the 6000 annual Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarships, more

In April, the India-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) was formed, thus paving the way for the facilitation of trade, investment and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The new organisation is an initiative between Guyana’s Private Sector and that of India through the impetus of the Indian High Commission.

At a business roundtable attended by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, former West Indies cricketer Ramnaresh Sarwan was named the President of the newly established IGCC, which would pave the way for partnerships to be built through culture and commerce to serve the two nations through advocacy, economic development, connectivity, business, and education.

A Joint Business Council between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Private Sector Commission was also announced at that time.

Moving forward, there have been talks to have an annual India-Caricom Summit to facilitate exchanges and capacity building with the entire Region by extension. (G12)

India’s new High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit S Telang

…points to diversity, religious integration throughout all strata of society

President Dr Irfaan Ali (third from left in foreground) on Day One of the symposium. He is flanked by Head of the CIOG, Sheikh Moen ul-Hack (immediate left) and Opposition MP Natasha SinghLewis (immediate right)

Bodies of father, son-in-law found floating in Essequibo River

Hours after a missing person's report was made to the Police at the Bartica Police Station about two men disappearing after their boat was found adrift in the Essequibo River, their bodies were found floating in the river on Tuesday.

Dead are Vijai Lallmoni and Solendra Bhookmohan.

Police in the region said they received information about the two bodies floating in the Essequibo River at about 11:00h.

As a result, two ranks went to Agatash village along the Essequibo River, where one of the bodies was found floating face down about 20 feet from the western shore.

The body, was identified as Lallmoni, was clad in a black jersey and black short trunks with no footwear. He was identified by

his wife, Rozana Lallmoni.

The ranks then proceeded to the Puerto Rima area in the Essequibo River, where the second body was found floating face down about 300 feet from the western shore.

He was identified as Solendra Bookmohan by his wife, Priya Bhookmohan. Police said at the time he was found, he was clad in a grey vest, long camouflage jogger pants, green boxers with no footwear.

The two bodies were escorted to the Bartica Hospital Mortuary, where they were pronounced dead by a doctor.

Vijai's wife, Rozana, who is a 28-year-old cook, went to the Bartica Police Station at 19:15h on Monday evening and reported that her husband, Vijai, and his father-in-law, Solendra, both employees at St Mary's Quarry, were missing.

She said they had left for Bartica on a wooden boat with a 40-HP Yamaha engine to purchase groceries. She said they did not return home and as such, she went searching for them and found the boat adrift in the Essequibo River at Sachrilla Bay with the engine running but no sign of the men. Calls to their cell phones went unanswered.

Police went to the scene and examined the boat, launching a search, but could not locate the men. Their bodies were found on Tuesday morning. An investigation has been launched . (G9)

…image

Well, it looks like the Ancient County’s being dragged into the 21st century. And your Eyewitness thinks it’s about time!! Imagine, it was in Berbice where our first blow for freedom was struck - all the way back in 1763 by Kofi and his fellow slaves - and yet Berbicians have pretty much been kept in the dark following Independence, almost exactly 200 years after!! What’s the point about making the man our “national hero” when the conditions in the place he fought to liberate are pretty much the way he left them??

A lot of that’s due to Burnham, of course. He just wanted his house historian PH Daly to draw comparisons between Cuffy the national hero and himself the “liberator”. Too bad he was just a quisling who sold out our independence for a mess of pottage – and a fake General’s uniform!! Berbice became an internal colony that produced rice, sugar and vegetables that fed Georgetown while it remained as underdeveloped as the Africa Rodney wrote about. Not a single new industry was located in Berbice among the THIRTY-SIX companies in Burnham’s post-independence Guystac!!

But it looks like the times are a changin”!! And it ain’t just about those cane-cutters striking against a Government they put into office over being sent back to Rose Hall Estate without getting “severance”!! The biggest bit of news – to your Eyewitness – is that the Berbice Mad House is gonna be closed!! Now, don’t tell him to be politically correct and call it “Berbice Psychiatric Hospital”! It was called the “Berbice Asylum” back in 1869 when it was opened - and folks who knew what an “asylum” was simply called it for what it was –the Berbice Mad House!!

Unfortunately, the part became used for the whole – a “synecdoche” they call it!! – and all the good folks of Berbice were accused of being from a “Mad House”. Understandably, Berbicians never found it funny!! So, the Minister now says the new hospital being built in Berbice gonna have beds to accommodate folks with mental problems. And voila!! - no more “Mad House” and snickering at Berbicians!! That’s progress, innit?? Or is that being too optimistic??

After all, in our fair land, no one gives a second thought when folks talk about visiting doctors, clinics or hospitals. But just mention – if you’re VERY brave –that you gotta check out a psychiatrist or psychologist!! Oooo la la!! From then on, all you’ll be getting are side glances from folks who’re suddenly very wary when you’re around!! Even if they want to be kind, at best they’ll cackle that you’ve “gone mental”!!

Your Eyewitness suggests that since there’s also gonna be a new hospital built in G/town, the Psychiatric Facility be located there!!

…economy

But it’s not just the negativity of being dubbed a Mad House that’s gonna be removed from Berbice – there’s a whole lotta positive development in the works that will transform the “Ancient County” into the “Space Age County”. We already know about the DeepWater Harbour that’s in the works, that’ll see eighteenwheelers hauling freight from Manaus and Roraima State in Brazil to be shipped to destinations in North America and Europe. That’s BIG BUSINESS!!

Then, at Palmyra, right across the Berbice Bridge, there’s the multipurpose stadium, a cricket stadium, two branded hotels, a hospital – no…not a mental one! – a new state-of-the-art mall, a recreational centre, a centre for persons with disabilities, and a call centre going up. And, of course, we heard about the Sherriff boys having a casino in their hotel!

With the Petroleum Refinery on Crab Island and Suriname’s LNG transported to our Deep-Water Harbour after that bridge across the Corentyne River goes up, we’re talking about a city at Palmyra!! Shining Berbice!! …agri potential

Berbice has the deepest coastal plain in Guyana - and was barely scratched by the colonial sugar monoculture. The Black Bush Polder rice scheme was one early example of alternative use. Why aren’t some experiments for soya, corn etc being done in Berbice?

Dead: Solendra Bhookmohan

Dead: Vijai Lallmoni

Mahdia CoI rejects lawyer’s request to halt proceedings

…secretary

The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) probing the Mahdia tragedy has made it clear that they will continue with their work, rejecting a request from the lawyer representing the accused in the matter for the proceedings to be halted until the court case concludes.

It was reported that on Sunday, Attorney-at-Law Dexter Todd on behalf of his client, the 15-year-old teen accused of setting the blaze that claimed the lives of 20 and destroyed the Mahdia Secondary School female dormitory, wrote to the CoI to request that they halt the proceedings until the trial is completed.

In his letter, Todd had argued that the CoI’s work, given the publicity that would surround it, could negatively impact his client’s case. But according to the CoI’s Secretary, Javeed Shadick, himself a lawyer, a letter has since been dispatched rejecting the request.

In an interview with this publication, Shadick explained that based on Section 9 the Commission of Inquiry Act, the CoI is fully autonomous. Moreover, he noted that the CoI is already cognisant of its responsibility to ensure the protection of the rights of minors.

“We will continue our work… in that Act, there’s Section 9 which basically governs our work. And in that section, it says we can manage and make rules accordingly. So, from the inception, I had held a meeting and told everyone that this CoI will be different to the last one.”

“We know that children are involved and have to be protected. So, the rules governing this CoI, the Chairman and other members of the inquiry have sat down and made decisions. And we’re fully aware they have to protect children’s rights,” Shadick said.

On May 21, a fire allegedly set by the 15-yearold student resulted in the deaths of 19 female students from the Mahdia school dorm and a fiveyear-old boy. The facility housed about 59 students from the communities of Karisparu, El Paso, Micobie and Chenapau. Information from the Guyana Fire Service indicated that 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while six died at Mahdia District Hospital.

Initial reports indicated that the teenage accused threatened to set the place on fire after her cell phone was confiscated and more so after she was previously suspended for engaging in

activities contrary to the rules of the institution.

The girls who perished in the fire are Subrina John, Belnisa Evans, Loreen Evans, Bibi Rita Fiona Jeffrey, Lisa Roberts, Tracil Thomas, Delecia Edwards, Lorita Williams, Natalie Bellarmine, Arianna Edwards, Cleoma Simon, Martha Dandrade, Mary Dandrade, Omerfia Edwin, Nickleen Robinson, Sherlyn Bellarmine, Eulander Carter, Andrea Roberts and Sherana Daniels. Adanye Jerome, the five-year-old son of

the dorm mother, was also among those who passed.

In the wake of the tragedy, a CoI has been estab -

lished comprising of the Chairman, retired Major General Joe Singh. Also on the CoI are Attorney-atLaw Dr Kim Kyte-Thomas and National Toshaos Council Chairman Derrick John. The CoI has already commenced its work but public hearings are yet to begin.

At the swearing-in ceremony, President Dr Irfaan Ali had noted that the CoI represents a crucial step towards understanding and healing from this horrific incident. The President had explained that the

Terms of Reference give the CoI the opportunity to look into the circumstances of the May 21 event, ex -

amine the responses that followed and consider recommendations to ensure safety across institutions. While the Commission’s investigation is set to run for two months, the President had clarified that if an extension is needed, it will be granted. He had further noted that the CoI was sworn in at this time to allow for a more conducive environment, given the immediate mental toll the event had taken on community members. (G3)

assures rights of minors remain paramount

Mahdia CoI Secretary Javeed Shadick Attorney Dexter Todd

CANU unearths $8M worth of cocaine at Tuschen

Ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Tuesday unearthed a large quantity of cocaine during an operation at Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo.

According to reports, CANU officers conducted the operation which resulted in the seizure of a about 7.8 kg (about 17.1 lbs) of cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately $8M.

As such, two persons were taken into custody and are assisting the officers with their investigations.

Over the weekend, ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) arrested a businessman on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway after a large quantity of cocaine was found in a room at an apartment building which he operates.

Reports are that the businessman owns a popular nightclub in Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara.

Reports are that during the search of the premises, Police entered a room which was securely locked but unoccupied.

While searching the bathroom area in the presence of the businessman, the Police noticed a salt bag. Upon opening it, they found parcels wrapped in black and transparent scotch tape, which were later determined to contain cocaine.

When questioned, the businessman stated that he had rented the room to an individual just over a month ago but had no information about the tenant’s identity or whereabouts. The businessman was arrested.

Pensioner killed in collision at Mahaicony

A71-year-old man is now dead following an accident on Tuesday morning along Zealand Public Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Dead is Beersain Udho of Huntley, Mahaicony, ECD, who was riding a motorcycle at the time of the collision.

Reports are that that the accident occurred at about 08:20h as Udho, who was riding motorcycle CK 722 allegedly slammed into motor car PNN 2196, which was being driven by a 63-year-old Mahaicony resident.

Police stated that the car was travelling west along the southern side of Zealand Public Road, and the motorcycle was proceeding in the

same direction, behind the vehicle.

The driver of the motor car claimed that he slowed down and then turned north, and in the process of turning, the motorcyclist collided with the right-side front door of the motor car.

As a result of the collision, Udho sustained injuries to his body. He was picked up by the car’s driver in an unconscious condition and taken to Mahaicony Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His body was taken to Bailey's Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are in progress.

The cocaine that was found at Tuschen Public Road on Tuesday

Businessman arrested for beating man, discharging loaded firearm

Abusinessman is among two persons in custody assisting with investigations into an incident that involved the discharging of a loaded firearm and assault.

The 53-year-old businessman of New Amsterdam, Berbice, operates a business in East Canje, where he has employed several persons to overlook his cattle.

Reports are that on Monday, the businessman, who is a licensed firearm holder, allegedly received information that a certain individual was on his property lurking around.

It is alleged that the businessman went to his East Canje business place but did not see the individual, whom he was told is a

41-year-old cane harvester of Gangaram Village.

As such, he picked up two of his employees to canvas the area and upon stopping at Sharabie Bar located at Gangaram Village, East Canje, the employees pointed out the cane harvester to the businessman as the person who had been lurking around his business.

The businessman then reportedly approached the cane harvester and an altercation started between them.

Reports are that a scuffle started and the businessman pulled his licensed .32 pistol from his waist and discharged a round. He then allegedly hit the man in his head with the fire -

Thief caught with stolen items in Eccles home

Asuspected thief was on Monday evening caught by residents of Eccles New Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), after allegedly breaking into a house under construction.

According to the Eccles Community Policing and Action Group, the incident occurred at about 09:21h.

“The Eccles Emergency Communication Network was activated, and vigilant residents quickly responded, resulting in the capture of the perpetrator. The Police were notified, and the individual was handed over to them,” the report stated.

This capture comes just three days after residents of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara (EBD), managed to apprehend a suspected burglar as he was mak-

The suspected thief that was caught in Eccles

social media, Corporation is heard pleading with his intended victim to spare him.

This is not Drakes’s first encounter with law enforcement. Last November, he was apprehended by officers from the Grove Police Station and charged with

peared in the Diamond/ Golden Grove Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Sunil Scarce, where he denied the burglary charge. Subsequently, he was granted bail in the amount of $50,000. (G9)

arm, causing him to receive injuries.

The businessman then went to the Reliance Police Station and made a report.

The other man was shortly afterwards contacted by Police and escorted to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital to seek medical

attention. Police have since lodged the firearm.

Both men are in custody assisting with the investigation. (G4)

ing attempts to break into a home in the Greenfield, Providence, EBD area.

He was later identified as a 23-year-old Lester Drakes of Christian Street, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Reports are that the vigilant community members managed to detain the man, subsequently subjecting him to restraints and physical confrontation.

In a video circulating on

burglary under Section 223 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.

This charge stemmed from an incident at the residence of a 73-year-old pensioner in Farm, East Bank Demerara, where a robbery occurred between 02:00 and 04:00 on the day in question, resulting in the theft of $11,000.

Drakes recently ap-

The items that the man allegedly stole

The firearm that was used during the confrontation

At start of the new academic year, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has offered its tribute to the lives lost in the

and agony” of Mahdia fire

to subside – OECS

tragic Mahdia school dormitory fire, which rocked the Guyanese nation back in May 2023.

On Sunday, May 21, a horrific fire engulfed the girls’ dormitory at the Mahdia Secondary School in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), taking the lives of 20 children - 19 female students and the son of a school administrator.

Director General of the OECS, Dr Didacus Jules, penned in a statement on Tuesday, “As we look forward to the start of a new academic year, the OECS continues to reflect on the tragedy and pays tribute to the lives that were lost. It was with profound sadness that we learnt of the tragic fire at the school in the central Guyanese mining town of Mahdia that claimed the lives of nineteen children.”

Months later, the OECS emphasized, the immeasurable pain and grief experienced by their parents, their peers and teachers, the community, the ministry and the nation cannot subside that easily.

The OECS has also drawn attention to school safety, not just for Guyana, but for the wider region.

“The shock and agony of this heart-rending incident will take some time to

quickly spread in the building. While 20 perished, others also suffered injuries and smoke inhalation, while several managed to escape.

In August, after three long months of surgeries and treatment, 12-year-old Mariza Williams who was medevacked to the Regional Burn Center at Northwell Health, Staten Island University Hospital in the USA for care was discharged.

subside. This incident has moved us into a solemn reflection on the lessons that we should all take in promoting a culture of safety at our schools. We extend heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to the Government, victims, families and people of Guyana as they come to terms with this heartbreaking situation”, the OECS has said.

As schools from OECS Member States contributed with compilation of letters, posters, cards and videos to express condolences, the Commission said it was deeply moved by this outpouring of expression of compassion by young citizens.

In the early hours of May 22, 2023, the fire had already ripped through the Mahdia school dormitory after being maliciously set by a 15-year-old student. 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/smoke in the bathroom area, which

Coming out of this incident, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn recently shared that dormitories across the country are being equipped with the necessary preventative and firefighting mechanisms to prevent a recurrence.

The facility housed about 59 students from the communities of Karisparu, El Paso, Micobie and Chenapau. Information from the Guyana Fire Service indicated that 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while five died at Mahdia District Hospital.

The much-anticipated Commission of Inquiry (CoI) probing the Mahdia dorm tragedy has opened, and will last for two months. They will investigate and report on what actions were taken to provide care, medical attention, and support to the injured and deceased and their relatives in a timely manner. Recommendations are also expected from the commission, which will include necessary measures to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies. (G12)

“Shock

tragedy will take time

…pays tribute to fire victims as new academic year begins

Director General of the OECS, Dr Didacus Jules

UK businesses interested in importing fruits from Guyana – GCCI

…upcoming trade mission to include agri research & development firms

Agriculture ranks among the opportunities for trade that United Kingdom (UK) businesses are interested in when it comes to Guyana, and according to the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), there is interest from the UK in importing fruits from Guyana.

Only recently, GCCI President Kester Hutson met with British High Commissioner Jane Miller, during which they discussed collaboration in the agriculture sector. Among the issues raised, however, is the importance of joint venture partnerships and maintaining phytosanitary standards.

“She noted that it would be beneficial for small scale local farms to form joint ventures to capitalise on economies of scale. She agreed that there is a need for local produce to achieve necessary phytosanitary standards, as there are UK businesses interested in importing fruits from Guyana,” the GCCI explained in a statement.

Also discussed is the planned UK Trade Mission to Guyana, which will be visiting from November 2729, 2023. According to the GCCI, potential areas of collaboration between busi-

nesses from the two countries involved in agriculture, were discussed.

“The Chamber members spoke about gaps in the agriculture sector in Guyana, such as the need for training, and increased incorporation of technology to better attain phytosanitary standards necessary for the export of Guyanese produce.”

“Commissioner Miller noted that further discussions will be held to tailor the UK’s Trade Mission to include businesses that provide services specific to Guyana’s agriculture needs, particularly in the area of research and development,” GCCI further said.

In addition to Hutson, the GCCI group also included Chairman of Agriculture Sub-Committee, Brian Edwards; Vice Chairman of Agriculture SubCommittee, Paul Archer and former GCCI President, Timothy Tucker. High Commissioner Miller was joined at the meeting by the Commission’s Country Director of the Department for Business and Trade, Sherwyn Naughton, along with Trade and Investment Assistant, Tocoma Alexis.

Trade between Guyana and the UK is already at an all-time high. Almost 25 per cent of the trade between the UK and the Caribbean is re-

corded between the UK and Guyana, with trade amounting to £1.2 billion in 2022 – an increase of £840 million from what was recorded in 2021.

Signalling continued trade and investments between the two countries, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean Jonathan Knott also signed a partnership agreement last November.

When it comes to Guyana’s agriculture sector, Guyana has been making great strides. The agriculture sector has shown

marked improvements, with a recent inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report showing that the sector grew by 11.9 per cent and played a major role in the growth of the non-oil economy last year.

This year, Guyana will also be hosting the third agri-investment forum and expo, from October 20 to 22, under the theme “Accelerating Investment in Vision 25 by 2025”. The previous two editions were both held last year, one in Guyana and the other in Trinidad. During the first agri expo in May 2022, a number of regional agencies had participated in round

table discussions following the opening of the event.

Donor agencies worked directly with the Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries to discuss their options and interests. Among the regional leaders who travelled to Guyana for the threeday event at the time were Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Keith Rowley and Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Motley.

Other Caricom leaders who attended the agri forum and expo included Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne; Prime Minister of Belize, Johnny Briceno; Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit; and Premier of Montserrat, Joseph Easton Taylor-Farrell. Moreover, Deputy Prime Minister of Bahamas, Chester Cooper and Agriculture Ministers from around the Region also attended the event.

During the inaugural event, Guyana served as the hub for potential investment talks.

Over 250 exhibitors had displayed their booths, with international stakeholders from countries such as Jamaica, the United States of America, Trinidad and Tobago, Ghana and Barbados. (G3)

Past GCCI President Timothy Tucker (far left): GCCI President Kester Hutson (third from left) and British High Commissioner Jane Miller (centre) along with other officials following the meeting

Motorcyclist dies in fiery crash after slamming head-on into truck

ACorentyne, Berbice motorcyclist met a horrific death on Tuesday when his motorcycle burst into flames after crashing head-on into a truck.

Dead is Ajay Ramchand, 43, of Nigg, Corentyne, Berbice. Reports are that the accident occurred at about 10:00h at Warren Village as the motorcyclist was overtaking a car and crashed into a lorry, which was transporting an excavator.

Following the collision, the motorcycle burst into flames and the excavator, which was on the truck, fell onto the roadway.

The motorcyclist was picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on

arrival.

The now dead man’s father, Jeenarine Ramchand, explained that his son had just left home

and was heading to New Amsterdam to transact business.

However, about half an

such he went to the scene in an effort to get information about the accident. There he was told that

The truck involved in the accident

hour later, he received information that his son was involved in an accident

the lorry was towing a low bed which had an excavator on it.

The damaged bike

and taken to the hospital. Subsequently, Ramchand was told that his son had died and as

Dead: Ajay Ramchand

The scene of the accident

Police said the driver of the motor lorry is in custody assisting with the investigation. (G4)

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

on the hypocrites for

present-day Afro-Guyanese living to slavery

Roysdale Forde is the latest of a bunch of PNC leaders and sycophants who, in the wake of an apology from the Gladstone family for the sins of their ancestors, accused President Irfaan Ali and his Government of being no different from the slave owners. Forde’s characterisation of President Ali is an insult to the very Afro-Guyanese that he claimed President Ali has been treating as slaves. Even more reprehensible is that Forde further inflicts injustice on the hundreds of thousands who came to Guyana as slaves, whose blood and sweat are mixed in the soil of this country. He willingly or unwittingly compared the lives that slaves lived to the way their descendants today live. It is preposterous, and it is unforgiveable that Forde and others compare the lives of AfroGuyanese today to slavery. In likening President Ali to slave owners like John Gladstone, Forde and the others have shamefully diminished and trivialised the brutality and criminality of slavery by equating the lives of slaves to the lives of their descendants today.

Today, the descendants of slaves and indentured have jobs they are paid for. In Guyana, these descendants earn wages and salaries that are not the best in the world, but are better than descendants of slaves earn today in many countries. Certainly, the daily and annual wages and salaries earned by Guyanese workers, almost all of whom are descendants of slaves and indentured, are better than, or equal to, most countries from which the slaves and indentured came.

In Guyana today, all of our professionals, including lawyers, doctors, professors, are descendants of slaves and indentured; more than 99% of all descendants of slaves and indentured are literate; many own their own homes; all are free to travel wherever they want; all can vote for a Government of their choice; many own businesses. The lives of descendants are far different from the lives of their ancestors.

Forde himself was a member of Parliament when his then President, David Granger, and his Government did nothing to improve the wages and salaries of Guyanese citizens. Instead, Granger and his cabinet members took more than a 100% pay increase, and increased all their allowances, while at the same time telling the public servants, most of whom are descendants of slaves, they must have patience.

Granger had argued that he needed first to increase his and his ministers’ salaries in order to remove the temptation of bribes. Public servants’ salaries have jumped significantly more in the last three years than salaries increased when Forde’s party was in power for five years. Is Forde ready to tell Granger that he was as evil as the slave owners?

Roysdale Forde and the sycophants are shameless for dismissing President Ali’s demand for reparations and his call for posthumous criminal charges against those who promoted slavery and who owned slaves.

Slaves lived in horrid conditions in what could be described as nothing more than pig pens, courtesy of the slave owners. Today, most of their descendants live in their own homes. Forde’s hero, Forbes Burnham, ruled this country with an iron fist, while promising everyone to “house, clothe and feed” them. By the time Burnham died and by the time the dictatorship he started was over in 1992, thousands of the descendants of slaves were squatters. Instead of continuing Cheddi Jagan’s movement to house people, Burnham closed the Housing Ministry and forced people to live as squatters. Will Forde deem Burnham similar to the slave owners?

The PPP changed that reality between 1992 and 2015, distributing more than 120,000 house lots and overseeing the construction of almost 100,000 new homes for Guyanese, the overwhelming majority of whom are descendants of slaves and indentured. The dramatic turnaround in home ownership that occurred after 1992 increased consistently on an annual basis until 2015, particularly between 2006 and 2015, when Dr. Irfaan Ali was Minister of Housing.

It was in 2015 that the rapid increase in home ownership suddenly crashed to a halt. Granger and the PNC, Roysdale Forde’s party, literally closed the Housing Ministry, downgrading it to a department. In five years in Government, the charlatans barely managed to create 100 housing units, most of which remained unoccupied by August 2020. It was President Ali that resuscitated the housing programme. He had promised 50,000 new house lots. In just three years, more than 25,000 house lots have been distributed, and most of those who have already received their house lots have constructed, or are in the process of constructing, their own homes.

Incidentally, the only ones who improved their housing while the PNC was in power between 1964 and 1992 and between 2015 and 2020 were PNC ministers and their families and friends, and those who were given posh jobs.

Slaves were properties of their owners. Which person in Guyana today is owned by President Ali? It is an unforgiveable insult to tell Guyanese today that they are the property of any individual. But it is Forde and his comrades who usually describe Afro-Guyanese who refuse to be their sycophants as ‘house slaves”. If there is anyone in Guyana today who have tried denying people their rights, it is those in charge of the PNC. For every election between 1964 and 1992, the PNC rigged the elections, denying citizens their fundamental rights. In 2020, in spite of those who claimed the PNC would have changed, the PNC tried in plain sight to thief the elections. The only political party that has ever tried to abrogate the rights of people on a large scale in Guyana is Forde’s party. Yet he has the temerity to demand an apology from President Ali for treating people like slaves.

It is preposterous, downright shameless, and he owes President Ali and the Guyanese people an apology.

Guyana, Suriname in talks for new Chamber of Commerce

Talks are brewing between Suriname and Guyana for the establishment of a new Chamber of Commerce here, intended to deepen trade relations between both nations.

Sowing the seed for this venture was an 'introductory stakeholders' meeting held recently, according to Surinamese media reports. This week, a steering committee will be set up consisting of representatives from both countries to work on the preparation and set-up of the chamber. Authorities are eyeing November to launch the chamber.

Suriname’s Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation Minister, Albert Ramdin hinted at cooperation in several areas, especially business. This initiative is fully supported by his Government. Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud also pledged full support on behalf of the Guyanese Government.

A presentation on the new Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce is planned for October during the Strategic Dialogue Cooperative Platform (SDCP) which will be held in Suriname, where President Irfaan Ali and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi will be updated on the undertaking.

Ambassador of Suriname in Guyana, Liselle Blankendal during the virtual engagement also underscored that their embassy will not only maintain political bilateral relations with Guyana, but also facilitate foreign direct investment and enhance economic diplomacy.

In March, the British Chamber of Commerce (BritCham) was launched in Guyana, coming months after visa restrictions were removed for Guyanese visitors to the United Kingdom (UK).

Then in April, the India-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) was formed, thus paving the way for the facilitation of trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

Later in May, the Government of Ghana commissioned the first Ghanaian Chamber of Commerce in Guyana.

Deeper collaboration

In January, deepened trade and a stronger bilateral relationship between Guyana and Suriname were expected in the future, with the establishment of a GuyanaSuriname Private Sector Business Council.

Guyana’s Private Sector Commission (PSC) had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Suriname Trade and Industry Association, expected to comprise of five representatives from each side.

Diplomatic relations were established between Suriname and Guyana on November 24, 1975. While a good relationship has been maintained over the years,

this has been enhanced in recent time with the construction of a bridge linkage over the Corentyne River border.

In June, the Governments of Guyana and Suriname were presented with the design of the Corentyne River bridge.

Consultant WSP Caribbean’s design proposed the Corentyne River bridge as a two-section structure that is connected via an island (Long Island) to link Guyana and Suriname. The design also featured a twolane bridge, with accommodation for a third lane in case of an emergency.

Five prequalified bidders were required to submit their proposals by the July monthend deadline.

The five bidders are:

China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC); China

Railway Construction Corporation International Ltd (CRCCI); China Railway Construction Caribbean Co Ltd (CRCCCL) and China

Railway Construction Bridge Engineering Bureau Group Co Ltd (CRBG);

China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC); China

Overseas Engineering Group Co Ltd (COVEC); China

Railway Eryuan Engineering

Group Co Ltd (CREEC); and China Railway First Group (CRRG); and Netherlandbased Ballast Nedam Infra Suriname BV.

The bids submitted were to be opened on August 1 and will undergo two rounds of evaluation: first individually by each country, and then jointly by the two nations, in order to decide on the most competitive bidder.

The high-span Corentyne River bridge will be built according to the Design-BuildFinance-Operate-Maintain model, and will be an approximately 3.1-kilometre bridge connecting Moleson Creek in Guyana to South Drain in Suriname, with a landing on Long Island in the Corentyne River, where a commercial hub and tourist destination will be established. That free zone will see major infrastructural development, such as hotels, recreational parks, entertainment spots, tourist attractions, malls, and farmers’ markets. (G12)

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Shame

equating

Region 6 residents to benefit from heavy-duty equipment operation training

infrastructural works being done in anticipation of the construction of a BIT training centre in New Amsterdam.

The 4000 square feet training centre is being built in accordance with Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) standards, and aims to provide a conducive learning environment for trainees to engage in practical training in a number of areas.

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh on Monday launched three heavy-duty equipment operation training programmes across Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) to advance residents’ skill sets and employability.

Funded by the Labour Ministry’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and Finance Ministry’s Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), the three-month training programmes will be held in New Amsterdam, Central Corentyne and Upper Corentyne.

During the launch, Singh encouraged the prospective students to capitalise on the new and emerging opportunities being offered by the

Government as they remain committed to providing upskilling opportunities for all Guyanese.

He further encouraged participants to remain steady and diligent throughout completion of the training course in order to become adequately licensed and certified, and thereby able to contribute meaningfully to the rapid transformation that is currently underway in Guyana.

Also present at the launch were Regional Chairman David Armogan, Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain, BNTF Project Manager Karen Roopchand, and BIT CEO Saskia Eastman-Onwuzirike.

Meanwhile, during this Region Six trip, Hamilton also inspected the ongoing

Further, on Tuesday, the Labour Minister also visited a welding and fabrication training programme that is facilitating the development of skills of 15 New Amsterdam trainees.

Hamilton commended their initiative in participating in the programme that he noted will expand their chances to work in a variety of relevant industries.

BIT has been working to address Guyana’s labour needs by providing some 80 free training courses that have benefited over 9000 Guyanese countrywide, allowing them to become entrepreneurs or employed.

Meanwhile, in addition to these heavy-duty equipment training programmes, the BNTF – a joint developmental programme funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Guyana

Sugar workers accused of disruptive behaviour placed on $1.2M bail

Several sugar workers were on Tuesday place on a total of $1.2 million bail after they were charged with varying offences in relation to a protest action they held on Monday at East Canje, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

The sugar workers are being represented by Attorney Khemraj Ramjattan, who is also a parliamentarian and a former Government Minister who was integral in the downsizing of the sugar industry, which left thousands of sugar workers unemployed.

Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus had said 20 persons were arrested: 16 sugar workers; one car driver, two fishermen and a labourer.

During a protest action on Monday, the demonstrators had descended into disruptive behaviour, resulting in the intervention of the Police.

The arrested individuals on Tuesday appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court.

They were charged with obstructing the flow of traffic, unlawful assembly, intent to cause terror to the people present in that area by the use of wood to block the public road and damage to a wooden stall being the property of Shanolee Sinclair, valued at $70,000.

They all pleaded not guilty to obstructing the flow of traffic and were granted self-bail.

However, the other of-

fences are indictable and as such they were not required to plead.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Orin Joseph while noting that the prosecution was not objecting to bail, drew reference to a similar incidence on the East Coast of Demerara where those arrested for similar offences under similar circumstances were each placed on $300,000 bail.

Attorney-at-Law

Khemraj Ramjattan, who is representing 18 of the accused, said many of them would not be able to make bail, pointing out that they have not been working for three weeks.

He argued that the workers are experiencing financial difficulties, adding that they were protesting seeking to get a better payment plan. Ramjattan said they all should be released on self-bail.

Magistrate Renita Singh set bail at $60,000 each for all of the charges.

Meanwhile, the other two accused are being represented by Attorney-at-Law Charlyn Artiga. They will

all have to return to court on October 16.

Meanwhile, after the hearing, Ramjattan, who played in integral role in downsizing the sugar industry and who had even supported the retrenching of thousands of sugar workers without paying them severance, told the media that he and his team will be defending all of the charges.

Ramjattan, who during the 2018 budget debates told the National Assembly that the party must make hard decisions in relation to sugar; referring to the Alliance For Change, told the media outside of the court house on Tuesday that he received reports that some of the protesters were assaulted and had to seek medical attention.

“I will be speaking more on this issue as the days go by,” he said.

Asked the reason for his representation of the very sugar workers whom he once told the National Assembly used their money to purchase rum, he said: “They are entitled to more money.” (G4)

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

Works ongoing for a Board of Industrial Training centre at New Amsterdam

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton visits a welding and fabrication training programme

Police escorting some of those charged for protesting to court

Government – has been investing in the construction

of a number of community roads, construction of schools and installation of several water supply systems. (G13)

Ex-Proud Boys leader jailed for 22 years for Capitol riot

Kelly. “Mr Tarrio was the ultimate leader of that conspiracy.”

Tarrio was also found guilty in May of obstruction and conspiracy charges, civil disorder and destruction of government property.

Prosecutors had called his actions “a calculated act of terrorism”, meriting a sentence of 33 years in prison. The defence wanted no more than 15 years.

Fisherman assaulted by 4 brothers armed with cutlasses

…2 suspects found hiding in septic tank

The Proud Boys’ former leader has been jailed for 22 years for orchestrating the US Capitol riot, the longest sentence so far for a ringleader of the raid on the seat of American democracy.

Henry “Enrique” Tarrio was convicted of seditious conspiracy, a US Civil Warera charge, and other counts in May.

Tarrio, 39, was not in Washington during the riot, but helped organise the farright group’s involvement.

More than 1,100 people have been arrested on Capitol riot charges.

Before he learned his fate on Tuesday, an emotional Tarrio apologised to police and residents of Washington DC for his role in the 6 January 2021 riot, when supporters of then-US President Donald Trump stormed the congressional building as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden’s election victory.

“I am extremely ashamed and disappointed that they were caused grief and suffering,” he told Washington’s federal courthouse. “I will have to live with that shame for the rest of my life.”

Tarrio, wearing an orange jail uniform, added: “I was my own worst enemy.

“My hubris convinced me that I was a victim and targeted unfairly.”

Acknowledging that Mr Trump had lost the November 2020 presidential election, Tarrio said: “I am not a political zealot. Inflicting harm or changing the results of the election was not my goal.

“I didn’t think it was even possible to change the results of the election.”

“Please show me mercy,” Tarrio asked the judge. “I ask you that you not take my 40s from me.”

At one point earlier, he could be seen wiping tears from his eyes as his mother asked the judge for leniency.

Tarrio was national chairman of the Proud Boys. Founded in New York City in 2016, members of the farright group have described themselves as an all-male drinking club.

They regarded themselves as Mr Trump’s foot soldiers and were often involved in street clashes with

far-left anti-fascist activists.

Tarrio’s lawyer argued in court on Tuesday that his client was a “keyboard ninja” and “misguided patriot” who tended to “talk trash”, but had no intention of overthrowing the government.

However, US District Judge Timothy Kelly, a Trump nominee, noted that Tarrio had on many previous occasions expressed no remorse for his actions.

“Seditious conspiracy is a serious offence,” said Judge

Tarrio stood silently as the judge handed down the penalty. As he left court, Tarrio waved to his family members in the public gallery and flashed a peace sign.

His lawyers said he plans to appeal.

In the aftermath of the 2020 election, Tarrio and other Proud Boys had posted threatening messages online, warning of violence and unrest if Mr Trump left office.

He was stopped by police two days before the US Capitol riot as he entered Washington DC. (Excerpted from BBC)

Police have launched an investigation into the cutlass attack on a 35-year-old fisherman at Unity Village, Mahaica.

Injured is Sushil Nagasar of Coconut Walk, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.

On Tuesday evening, Police stated that the fisherman reported earlier in the day that he was at-

tacked at a Chinese restaurant at Unity Village on Monday evening by four brothers who rushed into the restaurant, all armed with cutlasses, and broadsided him several times about his body.

He received wounds to his toes and hands and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he

was admitted as a patient in a stable condition.

Police said two of the suspects were arrested on Tuesday while hiding in a septic tank.

According to Police, the suspects’ mother tried to mislead the ranks by informing them that her sons were not at home. Investigations are ongoing.

T&T man missing after date with woman he met online

Aweek has passed since 21-year-old Blanchisseuse farmer Oreon Gomez said goodbye to relatives to go on a date with a girl he met online.

Gomez was expected to go to a popular resort in Arima on August 26 but never arrived.

Despite fearing for his safety, Gomez’s relatives continue their search for him and are now seeking the public’s assistance.

Speaking with Guardian Media at her home yesterday, one of Gomez’s cousins, who asked to be identified only as Stacy Ann, said the family was not sure what to think about his disappearance, as he was not known to meddle in crime and did not keep bad company.

Stacy Ann said while she did not know what to think of Gomez’s disappearance, she was afraid it may have been a kidnapping and appealed to his captors to release him.

“Please return Oreon to us safe. If it is he has done anything to upset or offend anyone, please have a conversation with us, we really would like to have him home safe with us. If you don’t want the authorities to get their hands on you, just put him somewhere we can find him,” she said.

Gomez lives in Morne La Croix, Blanchisseuse, and supported himself by growing produce and recently started a tour guide business.

One relative said she was deeply troubled over his disappearance and appealed for help in finding him.

“It’s very heartbreaking, it’s overwhelming. We are asking for the public’s assistance for any information. We are really begging the public’s assistance. Oreon is someone’s son, someone’s nephew, someone’s grandson,

someone’s cousin.”

Stacy Ann said the family’s suspicions were aroused when multiple calls to his phone went unanswered on Saturday evening. Their concerns were further raised when he did not show up to a scheduled tour on Sunday.

“His mother travelled from Blanchisseuse to Arima where she made a report at the police station. She also called the Arima Hospital to see if there was anyone there who matched his description. The cousins called Mt Hope and Sangre Grande Hospitals to ask the same but we didn’t get anything,” she said.

Stacy Ann said the family was deeply distraught over the disappearance, and his grandmother, who has several health problems, has had difficulty sleeping.

She said her last interaction with Gomez was one week before his disappearance, at a memorial service for a relative who died from leukaemia.

“He was in good spirits at the time. We spoke about how we needed to take my children out to Macqueripe before school reopens,” Stacy Ann said.

“He is 21 years old but he is child-like in a lot of ways.”

She said while it was unlikely he would be liming at a friend’s house during this time, she urged him to make contact with his family if he got their message to end their worrying.

Contacted for comment, Northern Division police said they continued to treat Gomez’s disappearance seriously and were working with different arms of the police service to find him.

“The Northern Division North, Anti Kidnapping Unit (AKU), the Cyber and Social Media Unit (CSMU) and oth-

er arms of the national security apparatus are collaborating in this investigation,” an officer said.

“All streams of information are being followed and verified. We are indeed

thankful to members of the public who have and continue to share information which may assist in locating Mr Gomez.”

Volunteers from the Hunters’ Search and Rescue

Team were also called in and are assisting the police in the search for Gomez.

Anyone with information on Gomez’s location is asked to contact their nearest police station. (T&T Guardian)

CCTV footage of the brothers assaulting the fisherman

Ex-Proud Boy leader Henry “Enrique” Tarrio

Regional Lula legalises more Indigenous reservations in Amazon

Brazilian President Luiz

Inácio Lula da Silva on Tuesday officially recognised two Indigenous territories, granting them legal protection as reservations to defend against invasions by illegal loggers, gold miners, and cattle ranchers.

The announcement came on the day Brazil celebrates its Amazon region, home to the world's largest tropical rainforest, the preservation of which is seen as essential to soaking up carbon emissions responsible for global warming.

Environmentalists say Indigenous groups are the best guardians of the rainforest and deforestation data shows that the forests on their reservations are the best conserved.

Lula, who pledged to legalise the greatest number of reservations possible, has so far signed decrees recognising eight Indigenous territories since taking office in January.

It is a race against time as Brazil's Congress is push-

Brazilian Environment Minister Marina Silva meets Davi Kopenawa, chief of the Yanomami, after a ceremony to commemorate Amazon Day, at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, September 5, 2023 (Reuters/Ueslei Marcelino photo)

ing through legislation that would restrict the recognition of Indigenous land claims, a move backed by the country's powerful farm lobby.

The Supreme Court, however, is expected rule that the cut-off date for claiming ancestral lands that were not lived on in 1988 is unconstitutional for denying recognised Indigenous rights.

The reservations legalised by Lula on Tuesday are the Acapuri de Cima and the Rio Gregorio Indigenous territo-

Cuba uncovers network trafficking Cubans to fight for Russia in Ukraine

Cuba has uncovered a human trafficking ring that has coerced Cuban citizens to fight for Russia in the war in Ukraine, its Foreign Ministry said, adding that authorities were working to “neutralise and dismantle” the network.

The Ministry’s statement on Monday gave few details, but noted the trafficking ring was operating both in the Caribbean island nation and within Russia.

ries in the states of Amazonas and Acre, respectively.

Half of Brazil's 1.6 million Indigenous people live in the Amazon in 180 different tribes, and in some territories there are isolated people who have had no contact with the outside world, said Indigenous Peoples Minister Sonia Guajajara.

Maintaining the Amazon alive requires keeping its Indigenous people alive, she said in a speech.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Argentine priests defend Pope Francis over “shameful” Milei attacks

Priests from poor districts in Buenos Aires held a mass on Tuesday to defend Argentine Pope Francis after radical right-wing presidential candidate Javier Milei denounced him as an "imbecile" and "representative of evil".

Milei, an outsider libertarian economist, is leading in the polls ahead of an October 22 General Election, with brash campaign criticism of his political rivals

resonating with some voters angry with a cost-of-living crisis owing to 113 per cent inflation.

The former media 'shock jock' commentator has made a series of attacks on the Pope, calling him an "imbecile who defends social justice" and "the representative of the evil one on Earth"...

"He has called Pope Francis insults like an imbecile and worse things," said Buenos Aires priest Lorenzo "Toto" De Vedia, who not-

ed the long-running insults have gained more notoriety as Milei's popularity grows.

"That is why we are having this mass today."

A Milei spokesperson declined to comment on Tuesday.

Pope Francis, 87, lived modestly when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires, commuting by public transport and keeping a low profile in deprived neighbourhoods of the city. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazilian state reels after its worst cyclone disaster

Torrential rain and winds caused by a cyclone have left at least 21 people dead in southern Brazil, with more flooding expected.

The Governor of Rio Grande do Sul said it was the state's worst-ever weather disaster.

Thousands have been forced from their homes, officials said.

In Mucum, a town of 5000 persons, hundreds had to be rescued from their rooftops as 85% of the town was flooded, local media report.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the Federal Government was ready to help.

"Where there is a problem, the Federal Government will be there to save people from these problems," he said.

Eduardo Leite, governor of Rio Grande do Sul, told a news

conference that 15 more bodies had been found in Mucum on Tuesday, bringing the death toll to 21.

More than 300 mm (11 inches) of rain hit the state in less than 24 hours, triggering floods and landslides, officials said.

"There are still people missing," Mucum Mayor Mateus Trojan told Radio Gaucha.

"The death toll might climb

“The Ministry of the Interior detected and is working on the neutralisation and dismantling of a human trafficking network that operates from Russia to incorporate Cuban citizens living there, and even some from Cuba, into the military forces participating in war operations in Ukraine,” the statement said.

“Cuba has a firm and

clear historical position against mercenary and plays an active role in the United Nations in repudiation of this practice,” the Ministry added, according to an unofficial translation.

“Cuba is not part of the war in Ukraine. It is acting and will act vigorously against whoever, from the

national territory, participates in any form of human trafficking for the purposes of recruitment of mercenary so that Cuban citizens use weapons against any country.”

The Russian Government has not commented on the allegations. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

73-year-old woman allegedly kills husband over reported exclusion from will

A73-year-old woman has been charged with the murder of her husband in Cabbage Valley district, St Elizabeth, Jamaica on Saturday.

Enid Townsend, a farmer, is expected to appear before the St Elizabeth Parish Court later this week.

Townsend, who is still in Police custody, is charged for the death of her hus-

band, Arthur, also a farmer, who was killed following a disagreement over his will.

It was reported that around 04:00h last Saturday, the couple were at home when they reportedly had a dispute over a will that the husband was purportedly preparing.

The wife, the Police said, became upset that her hus-

band was not including her name in the will.

An argument reportedly developed during which a sharp object was used to stab Arthur all over his body, killing him on the spot. He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead. The wife was subsequently taken into custody. (Jamaica Observer)

T&T diplomat takes over presidency of UN General Assembly

Anew session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) began in New York on Tuesday with both the outgoing and incoming leaders of the world body underscoring the importance of multilateral cooperation.

Outgoing President Csaba K?rösi addressed the final plenary meeting of the 77th session, urging nations to work together for a sustainable future.

higher. The town of Mucum as we knew it no longer exists."

Rescue workers have been using helicopters to reach areas cut off by flooding.

Further north in the town of Nova Bassano, resident Dirce Reginatto said she was "devastated".

"There are many people who lost much more, but here at home I have nothing left," she told Reuters news agency.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

“Our survival depends on our cooperation,” he said, pointing to global road blocks such as accelerating climate change, biodiversity loss, education, and gender inequality.

“Let us put money where our promises are,” he added, urging Governments to translate actions for sustainable development into budgeting policies, national regulations, and capacity building.

In his inaugural address as the President of the 78th session of the General

Assembly, Trinidad and Tobago diplomat Dennis Francis outlined his four key priorities or “watchwords” for the session: peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability.

He acknowledged the complex challenges facing the world, including climate change, conflict, and poverty, which have made peace more elusive, while geopolitical divides have bred scepticism towards multilateral systems.

“As the UN’s chief poli-

cy making body, the General Assembly bears a special responsibility to ensure that our efforts must be anchored in a robust multilateral system, faithful to the cherished values and principles enshrined in UN Charter,” he said.

Against this background, he highlighted the Assembly’s Security Council veto initiative as a step towards transparency and accountability regarding the application of the veto.

(Excerpt from CMC)

The deadly cyclone in southern Brazil killed 21 people

Trinidad and Tobago diplomat Dennis Francis

Honour guards hold Russian and Cuban flags in Havana, Cuba, in 2019 [File: Alexandre Meneghini/Reuters]

Oil prices settle at 10-month high as Saudi, Russia extend supply cuts

Oil prices rose a dollar a barrel on Tuesday to their highest since November, after Saudi Arabia and Russia extended their voluntary supply cuts to the end of the year, worrying investors about potential shortages during peak winter demand.

Brent crude futures rose by US$1.04, or 1.2%, to settle at US$90.04 a barrel, closing above the US$90 mark for the first time since November 16, 2022. US West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) futures gained US$1.14, or 1.3%, to settle at US$86.69 a barrel, also a 10-month high.

Investors had expected Saudi Arabia and Russia to extend voluntary cuts into October, but the three-month extension was unexpected.

"This is a clear indication that oil prices trump volume (for Saudi Arabia)," said Jorge Leon, senior vice president at Rystad Energy.

"These bullish moves significantly tighten the global oil market and can only result in one thing: higher oil prices worldwide," Leon added.

Both Saudi Arabia and Russia said they would review the supply cuts monthly, and could modify them depending on market conditions.

"With the production cut extended, we anticipate a market deficit of more than 1.5 million barrels per day in 4Q23," UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo wrote in a note to clients. UBS now expects Brent crude to rise to US$95 a barrel by year-end.

Reflecting concerns about the short-term market supply, front month Brent and WTI contracts were also trading at their steepest premium since November to later-dated prices. This structure, called backwardation, indicates tightening supply for prompt deliveries.

Also supporting oil prices on Tuesday, Goldman Sachs said it now sees the probability of a US recession starting in the next 12 months at 15%, down from an earlier forecast of 20%.

Along with the Saudi supply cuts, which began in July, prospects of the US economy avoiding a hard recession have helped lift oil demand and prices in recent months.

Both Brent and WTI futures have gained more than 20% since the end of June. (Reuters)

Sand dredging is 'sterilising' ocean floor, UN warns

Around 6 billion tons of marine sand is being dug up each year in a growing practice that a UN agency said is unsustainable and can wipe out local marine life irreversibly.

Sand is the most exploited natural resource in the world after water but its extraction for use in industries like construction is only loosely governed, prompting the UN to pass a resolution last year to promote more sustainable mining.

The findings from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) coincide with the launch of a new platform 'Marine Sand Watch' backed by funding from the Swiss Government that monitors dredging activities using marine tracking and artificial intelligence.

"The amount of sand we are withdrawing from the environment is considerable and has a large impact," UNEP's Pascal Peduzzi told a Geneva press briefing.

Pointing to an image of a ship he described as a "giant

Around The World Ukraine says it retakes more ground as Zelenskiy visits front lines

Ukraine said on Monday its troops had regained more territory on the eastern front and were advancing south in their counteroffensive against Russian forces while President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited two frontline areas.

Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said Kyiv's forces had retaken about 3 square km (1.16 square miles) of land in the past week around the eastern city of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russian troops in May after months of heavy fighting.

She also reported unspecified "success" in the direction of the villages Novodanylivka and Novoprokopivka in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia, but gave no details.

Ukraine has now taken

back about 47 square km of territory around Bakhmut since starting its counteroffensive in early June, Maliar wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

Reuters was not able to verify the reports and Russia has not confirmed the Ukrainian advances. Both sides have counted gains of tiny villages or pockets land as recent successes.

Videos posted on the Ukrainian presidential website on Monday showed Zelenskiy visiting troops in the eastern Donetsk region, where Bakhmut is located, and in Zaporizhzhia region, where Kyiv's forces are trying to push southward to the Sea of Azov.

Zelenskiy was shown presenting medals to soldiers at a number of sites and offering thanks to medics at a field hospital on the southern front.

In his nightly address, delivered from a train, the President said the soldiers' feedback on the course of the conflict would be taken seriously.

Kyiv officials have bristled at criticism in Western media reports that the counteroffensive has been too

slow and hindered by poor tactics -- particularly positioning troops in too many locations.

Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said last week that critics should "shut up".

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Torrential rain follows summer wildfires in Greece,

Torrential rains have flooded homes, businesses and roads in Greece and a man died after a wall collapsed in the bad weather, the fire brigade said on Tuesday.

Storm Daniel has battered western and central Greece since Monday, prompting hundreds of calls to emergency services to pump out water just days after a deadly wildfire that has burned for more than two weeks was

1 dead

brought under control in the north of the country.

"The man died after a wall collapsed near Volos city, probably due to bad weather," a fire brigade official told Reuters, without providing any more details.

According to the Athens News Agency, the wall collapsed when the man, a cattle breeder, was trying to reach his animals.

About 94 inmates were moved to safety after tor -

rential rain damaged part of their nursing home in Volos, another fire brigade official said.

Footage from state broadcaster ERT showed cars in Volos, a port city on the Pagasetic Gulf, washed away by the heavy rain onto muddy shores.

A man has been missing in Volos after his car was swept away by the rainstorm earlier on Tuesday, fire brigade spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios told

Skai television. His son came out but the father was carried away and a search operation was ongoing.

"It's the most extreme weather in terms of the amount of rainfall within 24 hours since records have been kept in the country," Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias said in a statement, urging people to stay indoors. (Excerpt from Reuters)

vacuum cleaner" he said such vessels were "basically sterilising the bottom of the sea by extracting sand and crunching all the microorganisms that are feeding fish."

In some cases, companies remove all the sand to the bedrock, meaning that "life may never recover," Peduzzi added.

While globally the 6 billion being extracted is less than the sand deposited annually by the world's rivers, in some areas the removal is surpassing replenishment rates, UNEP said.

The South China Sea, the North Sea and the east coast of the United States are among the areas where the most dredging has occurred, said Arnaud Vander Velpen, a sand industry and data analytics officer with the University of Geneva.

China, the Netherlands, the United States and Belgium are among the countries most active in the sector, he said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

At least 53 Burkina Faso soldiers, volunteers killed in clashes with rebels

At least 53 members of Burkina Faso’s security forces have been killed during heavy clashes with rebel fighters in the country’s north, according to the army.

Seventeen soldiers and 36 volunteers assisting the military were killed during an “attack” in Koumbri commune in Yatenga province on Monday, the army said in a statement on Tuesday.

The security forces had been deployed in the town to enable the resettlement of residents chased out of the area by the fighters more than two years ago, it added.

“This act of extreme cowardice will not go unpunished. Every effort is being made to disable the remaining terrorist elements on the run,” the statement said, adding that several dozen of the fighters were also killed and their combat equipment destroyed.

Operations in the area were still under way, the army

Venice to start charging visitors entry fee next year

said.

Burkina Faso has been ravaged by attacks linked to fighters affiliated with ISIL(ISIS) and al-Qaeda that have killed thousands, displaced more than two million people and pushed tens of thousands to the brink of starvation. Approximately half of the country is outside of Government control, conflict analysts say.

Bottom of Form

The country of some 23 million people saw two military coups last year, triggered in part by insecurity.

The killings on Monday were one of the largest attacks since Captain Ibrahim Traore seized power in the second coup in late September.

Since the first coup in January 2022 the number of people killed by fighters has nearly tripled compared with the 18 months before, according to a report by the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Venice plans to experiment with an admission fee of 5 euros (US$5.35) for day trippers next year to try to manage the flow of tourists drawn to its historic canals, the city council said on Tuesday.

The fee will be applied on a trial basis on 30 days next year, focusing mainly on spring bank holidays and summer weekends when tourism numbers are at their peak. All visitors over the age of 14 will have to pay it.

The aim was to find "a new balance between the rights of those who live, study or work in Venice and those who visit the city," Venice Tourism Councillor Simone Venturini said.

It is not a money-making move, he added, saying the fee would only cover the cost of administering the scheme.

The exact dates of the

plan and how it will be run will be agreed after final council approval, which is expected next week.

The plan, first mooted in 2019, was initially postponed because of COVID-19, which kept tourists away, and later for technical and procedural reasons.

Visitors have meanwhile poured back into Venice, with outsiders often vastly outnumbering the roughly 50,000 residents of the city centre, overwhelming its narrow alleys.

Overtourism has long been a problem for the fragile lagoon city.

In July, UNESCO experts recommended that Venice and its lagoon be added to its list of World Heritage in Danger, claiming that Italy was not doing enough to protect the city from the impact of climate change and mass tourism.

(Reuters)

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy awards a Ukrainian service member as he visits a position at a frontline, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Donetsk region, Ukraine, September 4, 2023

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Speed things up and take care of unfinished business. What you do will clear the way for something new and exciting. A challenge will lead to better health and self-improvement.

(March 21-April 19)

Talk the talk and walk the walk. The connections you make through networking will be what you need to push forward. Time spent evaluating your home and lifestyle will lead to positive changes.

(April 20-May 20)

Steady your emotions before you speak in order to avoid being put in a vulnerable position. Someone will make you look bad if you are indecisive. Stick to the truth.

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

It’s up to you to make the changes necessary to reach your goal. Someone close to you has more to offer than you realize. Share your goals and see what happens. Work hard and reap the benefits.

Benevolence will help you excel but also subject you to criticism. If you follow your instincts and put your best foot forward, it will be difficult for anyone to deny you what you deserve.

Contact people who make you think, and look for ways to bring in additional cash and make your money work for you. Don’t hold back; say what’s on your mind and find out where you stand.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Channel your energy into something meaningful. Learn, explore and expand your mind; it will do wonders for your soul. It’s time to appreciate all you have and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Explore possibilities, recognize your talents and set boundaries when necessary. Consider what you want to do, and give your all. Opportunity is within reach if you clear your agenda.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Trust in what you see, not in hearsay. Ask questions and say no to requests that don’t fit your agenda. Follow your heart, take care of your health and surround yourself with people you love.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

A change will help you recognize what’s missing in your life. Look for opportunities that free up time and ease stress. Use your attributes to fine-tune your day-to-day.

Evaluate your relationships and make changes that add to your peace of mind. Pay attention to how you feel, look and spend your time. It’s up to you to call the shots.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Refuse to let others upset you. Remove yourself from situations that don’t appeal to you, and new and exciting opportunities will come your way. A financial change will pay off.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Traffic advisories issued in anticipation of RBL CPL Guyana leg

With the Republic Bank Caribbean

Premier League (CPL) 2023 slated to make its way to Guyana next week for the local leg of the competition, several traffic advisories have been issued for those utilising the East Bank Demerara (EBD) carriageway to attend games at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, or for other purpose.

The Guyana leg of the tournament includes four Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) home games, to be played on September 13th, 14th, 16th and 17th (night games); two neutral games, to be played on September 16th and 17th (day games); three playoff games, to be played on September 19th (Eliminator 1), September 20th (Qualifier 1), September 22nd (Qualifier 2); and the grand finale on September 24th.

As such, the following protocols for the EDB thoroughfare have been issued for those games:

Traffic Arrangements:

To ensure the smooth flow of traffic along the East Bank

Demerara corridor during these CPL games, the following traffic arrangements will be in place:

* Patrons, including VIPs, in vehicles are advised to proceed south along the eastern lane of the eastern carriageway of the East Bank Public Road to access the Guyana National Stadium.

* Drivers proceeding further south of the National Stadium are advised to use the western lane of the eastern carriageway of the East Bank Public Road.

* The third lane, along the eastern lane of the western carriageway of the East Bank Public Road, will be utilized to filter traffic west across the Demerara Harbour Bridge, facilitated by traffic ranks

Parking:

* Paid parking will be available at Providence Access Road (Red Road) in the compound on the southern side of the road.

* Stadium parking will be available at the second access of the National Stadium.

* Special invitees and officials will access the National Stadium using the Third

Entrance (Greenfield Road).

* No parking would be allowed on the eastern and western carriageways between Bagotstown Public Road and Providence Public Road in the vicinity of Rubis Gas Station.

* Patrons are advised to purchase tickets for parking prior to game days in order to reduce interruptions in traffic flow.

* Carpooling and ride-sharing are encouraged to reduce congestion.

* Signage will be erected to guide patrons

Alternate Routes:

* Mandela Four Lane Access Road south to Eccles Bagotstown Public Road (Dumpsite Road) west to Windsor Estate Road, south along Windsor Estate Road, continue south to the Mocha to Diamond Access Road and exit at Mocha Access Road or Diamond Access Road.

* Drivers can access the Windsor Access Road and Mocha to Diamond Access Road from Eccles Access Road (Eccles Traffic Light) and Bagotstown Access Road (Dumpsite Road).

* Traffic will only be allowed east on Providence

‘One Guyana’ Basketball League… Eagles, Ravens, Kobras bag victories

The spanking new Basketball Court at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue was a hive of activity over the weekend with play continuing in the ‘One Guyana’ Basketball Premier League organized by the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA).

In winners’ circle on the fourth night of competition were Stabroek Eagles, Campbellville Ravens and Bagotstown Kobras.

Compliments of a stellar 32-point performance from renowned player and team captain Travis Belgrave, Stabroek Eagles were lifted to an 88-41 victory over Leonora D-Up Stars.

Belgrave’s campaign included 11 rebounds, while teammate Denzel Ross accumulated 17 points, inclusive of 6 rebounds and 6 steals, to help propel Eagles to the massive 47-point win.

All-round team performance saw Kitty/ Campbellville Ravens trouncing the North Ruimveldt Caimans by more than 50 points.

Captain Dominic Vincente

led from the front in netting 25 points, while Shamaar Huntley racked up 21 points and 5 steals.

Caimans’ Chris Tucker was the standout player for that team, netting 20 of their 30 points.

Kobra’s Jude Corlette also joined the party, registering 18 points, inclusive of 8 rebounds and 5 dunks. The powerful individual performances led Kobras to a 95-30 victory over their opponents.

On the other hand, A close encounter between Bagotstown/ Prospect Kobras and the University of Guyana (UG) Trojans saw the former edging the tertiary institution 7270 in a nail-biting game.

On the back of a 29-point game from captain Carlos Edwards, including three 3s and 18 rebounds, Kobras managed to hold on to a slim lead throughout the game. Kobra’s Elijah David also contributed a handsome 18 points and 5 rebounds.

For the losers, Kadeem Peterkin was UG’s shining star, netting 24 points, including 3 three and 8 rebounds.

The ‘One Guyana’ Basketball Premier League, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS); the National Sports Commission (NSC) and G-Boats Guyana, is set to continue this Saturday, September 9th, at the same venue.

Access Road (Red Road). No entry west between Windsor Estate Road and Providence Public Road.

Appeal to Road Users:

The Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force appeals to all road users during these upcoming CPL games to adhere to the traffic arrangements, utilise al-

ternate routes for travel, carpool, share rides, and observe all traffic laws and regulations. Your cooperation will contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

11 to benefit from MACORPGFF collaboration

Through the continued partnership between Machinery Corporation of Guyana (MACORP) and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), eleven footballers and administrators have been awarded scholarships for the MACORP Excavator Training Programme.

The three-week programme, which officially commenced on Monday, September 4, aims to certify the nine men and two women as heavy-duty excavator operators. This batch of scholarship awardees represents a diverse group of individuals, including two individuals from the Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

GFF President has Wayne Forde congratulated the scholarship recipients and emphasised the ongoing commitment of the Federation to prioritise off-the-pitch opportunities for footballers in Guyana.

"I am delighted to join with the rest of our football community in congratulating the eleven MACORP Scholarship recipients, who began a new and exciting journey today. Over the next few weeks, they will acquire the skills, knowledge and certification as excavator operators. It is of strategic importance that the GFF continues to explore more opportunities for job placement,

internship, and academic pursuit for our male and female footballers”, he said.

“The scholarship programme, which was launched in 2021, is designed to provide individuals involved in the game of football with an opportunity to acquire new skills that can be used to earn a livelihood beyond their active football careers. To date, a total of 21 male and female footballers have completed the training programme and are now certified MACORP operators,” he disclosed.

President Forde expressed gratitude to MACORP for their unwavering commitment to the Federation's vision for football development, and has urged the scholarship awardees to demonstrate dedication and commitment throughout their training journey.

“Guyana is witnessing

an unprecedented demand for skilled labour across many sectors, with the construction industry leading at a breathtaking pace. I am therefore extremely happy to see our young footballers setting the right example by dedicating the time and effort necessary to develop key expertise that would allow them to transition smoothly to a life of business or gainful employment after their playing days are over,” President Forde shared. He added, “I would like to thank the Management of MACORP for being a shining example of corporate goodwill towards our young people."

The group of recipients will acquire the necessary knowledge and practical experience to operate heavy-duty excavators effectively and safely through hands-on training, theoretical instruction, and practical assessments.

Traffic advisories have been issued to facilitate the CPL rush over the next two weeks

A look at the ‘One Guyana’ basketball action (File Photo)

A look at the group that would benefit from scholarships through the MACORP-GFF collaboration

Guyana Amazon Warriors Women record first win in Massy CPL 2023

The Guyana Amazon Warriors Women have recorded their first win -- at the third time of asking -- in the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL). This came in a match played against the Trinbago Knight Riders at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.

In the WCPL’s first game outside of Barbados in 2023, the Amazon Warriors recorded their first win with a 21-run victory against the Trinbago Knight Riders.

The Warriors won their third consecutive toss, and chose to bat also for the third time. As has been the pattern for them this season, a strong Powerplay set them up early on. A fall from 106/2 to 132 all out set them back late in their innings.

In Knight Riders’ reply, the run rate was always an issue, and after Deandra Dottin’s resilient fight came to an end in the 17th over, the match was too far a stretch for the hosts.

Sophie Devine continued her good form in this year’s WCPL with another 48 added to her run tally for the visitors, leaving captain Stefanie Taylor at 92/2

to kick-on with less than eight overs left. Taylor supported with a 29-ball 32 before a tumble of late wickets, including a stunning one-handed catch from Mignon du Preez to dismiss former international teammate Shabnim Ismail, left the Warriors short of where they would have wanted to be.

Anisa Mohammed

showed her experience late on, along with Marie Kelly, each of these off-spinners picking up four wickets.

After being bowled out for 73 in their first match, the Knight Riders were looking for a bounce back with the return of Dottin to their batting lineup. Kelly started positively before being stumped for a run-aball 16. From then on, only

SCOREBOARD

Guyana Amazon Warriors Women (20 ovs maximum)

Sophie Devine c Connell

b Mohammed 48

Suzie Bates c du Preez

b Connell 16

Stafanie Taylor (c)c Kirby

b Kelly 32

Shemaine Campbelle

†b Mohammed 7

Natasha McLean

b Mohammed 12

Shabika Gajnabi c Cooper

b Kelly 4

Shreyanka Patil c Jonas

b Mohammed 3

Sheneta Grimmond lbw

b Kelly 5

Karishma Ramharack run out

(Cooper/†Kycia A Knight) 1

Shabnim Ismail c du Preez

b Kelly 0

Shakera Selman not out 1

Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 1) 3

TOTAL 19.5 Ov (RR: 6.65) 132

Kycia Knight and captain Deandra Dottin produced any fightback, as wickets fell too frequently.

Dottin was still at the crease with six boundaries to her name and 35 runs needed from 20 balls, thus the Knight Riders still had an outside chance of clinching two points; however, she was outdone by a Devine short ball. (CPL)

US Open tennis tournament 2023…

Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Suzie Bates, 4.1 ov), 2-92 (Sophie Devine, 12.4 ov), 3-106 (Shemaine Campbelle, 14.6 ov), 4-106 (Stafanie Taylor, 15.1 ov), 5-122 (Shabika Gajnabi, 17.5 ov), 6-125 (Shreyanka

Patil, 18.3 ov), 7-130 (Natasha McLean, 18.6 ov), 8-130 (Sheneta Grimmond, 19.1 ov), 9-130 (Shabnim Ismail, 19.3 ov), 10-132 (Karishma Ramharack, 19.5 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Shamilia Connell 4-0-20-1

Anisa Mohammed 4-0-28-4

Marie Kelly 3.5-0-30-4

Deandra Dottin 1-0-6-0

Fran Jonas 4-0-25-0

Djokovic into record 47th Grand Slam semifinal

…Guaff into first semifinal

Novak Djokovic reached a record

47th men's Grand Slam semi-final with a straight-set win over Taylor Fritz at the US Open. The Serb, 36, prevailed 6-1 6-4 6-4 on the Arthur Ashe Stadium to continue his pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.

Djokovic achieved victory despite temporarily appearing to struggle with the heat and humidity in New York. The three-time champion faces Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton in the last four.

The winner of Tuesday's all-American quarter-final between Tiafoe and Shelton will now carry the host nation's hopes of a first men's singles champion for 20 years, following world number nine Fritz's defeat.

Djokovic has maintained his perfect record in US Open quarterfinals - with this being his 13th win in a row at that stage - to overtake Roger Federer for most Grand Slam men's semifinal appearances. The victory also moved him within two wins of equalling Australian Margaret

Court's tally of major singles triumphs.

Gauff beats Ostapenko to reach semifinals

American teenager Coco Gauff says she is feeling "emotionally fresh" as she reached the US Open semifinals for the first time by beating Jelena Ostapenko.

Gauff, 19, won 6-0 6-2 in 67 minutes against Latvian 20th seed Ostapenko to record her best run at the tournament.

"I think the problem in the past in Grand Slams is that I would emotionally be drained," the sixth seed said. "Now I'm physi -

cally fresh and emotionally fresh, and I think that just came from experience."

Gauff will play Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova or Romania's Sorana Cirstea, seeded 30th, in the semifinals on Thursday.

Another victory would put Gauff into the second major singles final of her career, matching her run at the 2022 French Open when she was beaten by Poland's Iga Swiatek.

There has been a different aura about Gauff following a successful North American hard-court swing in which she won two of the WTA Tour's biggest

titles in Washington and Cincinnati.

Since a chastening firstround exit at Wimbledon, Gauff has turned her form around with the help of new coach Pere Riba and consultant Brad Gilbert.

The teenager has won 16 of her 17 matches since losing at the All-England Club in early July.

Gilbert, who has coached Andy Murray and Andre Agassi among others in a successful career, has been the focus of a lot of the attention, and Gauff credited him for helping her enjoy her tennis more.

"I wish I embraced the fun parts a little bit soon-

Zaida James 3-0-22-0

Trinbago Knight Riders Women (T: 133 runs from 20 ovs)

Marie Kelly st †Campbelle

b Grimmond 16

Lee-Ann Kirby c Selman

b Ramharack 8

Kycia Knight †c Devine

b Ramharack 19

Mignon du Preez c Gajnabi

b Patil 8 Deandra Dottin (c)c †Campbelle

b Devine 35

Kyshona Knight c †Campbelle

er," said Gauff, who was left in tears when Ostapenko beat her in the Australian Open fourth round earlier this year. "I thought to play and win you have to be ultra serious and ultra focused; which that is true, but also you still have to enjoy it. I think that what's been the change is that I'm having more fun.

"One of the first things Brad said is, 'You need to smile more', it wasn't really anything with my game or anything. That's something I'm trying to work on and continuing to do, and obviously I think it's helping my results." (BBC Sport)

(Marie Kelly,

(Kycia Knight, 9.3 ov), 3-47 (Lee-Ann Kirby, 9.6 ov), 4-67 (Mignon du Preez, 12.5

ov),

Guyana Amazon Warriors Women

Coco Gauff's best Grand Slam singles performance came at the 2022 French Open, when she lost in the final Novak Djokovic (36) became the oldest US Open semi-finalist since Jimmy Connors (39) in 1991

By Brandon Corlette

Table leaders in the 2023 Republic Bank

Caribbean Premier League, Guyana Amazon Warriors, have continued their unbeaten run with a dominant six-wicket win against the mighty Trinbago Knight Riders in a match played at a packed Queen’s Park Oval in the Republic of

when the score was at 18-1 in 2.5 overs. Shai Hope survived a leg-before call off the probing Sunil Narine, and Warriors cruised to 39-1 in the powerplay, as Saim Ayub and Shai Hope built a partnership.

The left-handed Ayub was the aggressor in the first half, having taken a liking to the bowling of Terrance Hinds. Warriors were in

reached his maiden CPL fifty in 39 balls, but four balls later, he offered a return catch to Andre Russell and was dismissed for 62 from 43 balls, having struck four sixes and four fours. Ayub and Hope added 93 runs from 67 balls for the second wicket.

After Hope had reached his fifty from 39 balls, he found long-off and was dismissed for 51 from 40 balls. The right-handed Hope had struck three sixes and three fours.

Shimron Hetmyer joined Azam Khan with the Warriors on 144-3 in 16.4 overs, and requiring 29 runs from 20 balls at that stage.

was caught at the wicket off the impressive bowling of Romario Shepherd.

It quickly became 34-2 after 4.4 overs when the danger man Nicholas Pooran edged one behind and was brilliantly caught by Azam Khan at the wicket for 18 off Keemo Paul.

Warriors were roaring, and despite some early blunders in the field, Imran Tahir removed Martin Guptill for 15, reducing TKR to 59-3. Akeal Hosein came ahead of Kieron Pollard, and he and Lorcan Tucker joined forces to take TKR to 67-3 in 10 overs.

TKR’s boundary scoring

at 122-5 in 15.2 overs.

Pollard came to the crease to join Hosein, and the TKR skipper showed power from the inception,

Hosein scoring an unbeaten 44 from 35 balls. His innings had three sixes and two fours.

Odean Smith was the

Trinidad & Tobago.

TKR posted 172-8 in their 20 overs, while Warriors ended on 175-4 in 19.1 overs.

In the Warriors’ chase, they lost Chandrapaul Hemraj for a run-a-ball 10

firm control at the half-way stage, scoring 81-1, with Ayub scoring more than 50 per cent of the Warriors’ runs at that stage.

The Pakistani Ayub

Hetmyer scored 13 from seven balls, while Azam Khan’s unbeaten 29 helped Warriors secure their fourth win in as many matches this season.

Earlier, the Warriors won the toss and opted to bowl first. They had made two changes, with Chandrapaul Hemraj and Odean Smith returning while Junior Sinclair and Hazratullah Zazai were left out.

Warriors had a brilliant start, reducing TKR to 47-2 in the powerplay. Mark Deyal was the first man dismissed, for one, when he

Compliments of

had been reduced by then, but the 13th over bowled by Dwaine Pretorius broke the 29-ball boundary drought with 19 runs coming off that over. Hosein found the boundary, and Tucker was going well until he was run out by a brilliant throw from Hemraj. Tucker made 38 from 25 balls in an innings laced with five fours.

At 98-4 after 13.2 overs, Andre Russell partnered Hosein, and the duo took TKR past 100 in the 14th over. Andre Russell slammed two sixes in his 14, but was caught behind upon review

slamming

Gudakesh Motie produced a top bit of fielding, hitting the stumps from deep in the field to run out Pollard for 25. TKR ended on 172-8 in 20 overs, with

pick of the bowlers with 3-31 from four overs.

The CPL continues today with TKR taking on Barbados Royals at 19:00h at Queen’s Park Oval. Warriors will play Royals on Sunday, September 10, from 10:00h.

SCOREBOARD

Trinbago Knight Riders (20 ovs maximum)

Martin Guptill c Paul

b Imran Tahir 15

Mark Deyal c †Azam Khan

b Shepherd 1

Nicholas Pooran c †

Azam Khan b Paul 18

Lorcan Tucker † run out (Hemraj) 38

Akeal Hosein not out 44

Andre Russell c †Azam

Khan b Smith 14

Kieron Pollard (c) run out (Motie) 25

Terrance Hinds c †

Azam Khan b Smith 4

Sunil Narine c Hemraj b Smith 4

Extras (b 1, lb 2, nb 1, w 5) 9

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.60) 172/8

Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Mark Deyal, 1.1 ov), 2-34 (Nicholas Pooran, 4.4 ov), 3-59 (Martin Guptill, 8.2 ov), 4-98 (Lorcan Tucker, 13.2 ov),

5-122 (Andre Russell, 15.2 ov),

6-156 (Kieron Pollard, 18.5 ov),

7-168 (Terrance Hinds, 19.4 ov),

8-172 (Sunil Narine, 19.6 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Dwaine Pretorius 4-0-48-0

Romario Shepherd 4-0-39-1

Keemo Paul 2-0-17-1

Shepherd for a 108-metre six on the roof of Queen’s Park Oval.

Shai Hope and Saim Ayub scored vital runs for Warriors

Andre Russell removed Chandrapaul Hemraj

Imran Tahir celebrating in trademark style

TKR fans were out in their numbers

Akeal Hosein scored an unbeaten 44

Keemo Paul removed Pooran