Guyana Times -Sunday, July 30, 2023

Wakapao adds bamboo craft to its coffeemaking experience

Guyana taking measures to address over 280 suspected cases of hepatitis C – 35 confirmed cases on road to recovery

Police retrieved firearm dropped by escaping duo

SBM Offshore Guyana launches STEM Scholarship Programme for Indigenous women

Pedal cyclist dies after colliding with motor car

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, July 30 – 02:00h – 03:30h and 13:00h – 13:45h and Monday, July 31 – 03:00h – 04:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, July 30 – 14:35h – 16:05h and Monday, July 31 – 15:30h – 17:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies and thundery showers at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 14:47h reaching a maximum height of 2.37 metres.

Low Tide: 08:14h and 20:35h reaching minimum heights of 0.72 metre and 0.85 metre.

Electronic ID Card will enhance security on national scale – VP Jagdeo –

as Data Protection Bill slated for 2nd reading next week

As Guyana continues to undergo an unprecedented transformation, the Government is moving ahead with the introduction of an electronic identification card that will contain biometric data of citizens and aid in enhancing security at a national level.

During his recent press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was asked about Chinese tech company Huawei. While in China on a State visit, President Dr Irfaan Ali met with Huawei top executives and there is talk of an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) campus being set up by the company in Guyana. Jagdeo explained that Huawei has had a presence in Guyana that preceded the President’s visit to China and in fact, it is spearheading the expansion of the smart city programme that will transition into a smart country initiative.

“Huawei has been here all along. And I guess they’ll be doing more. In fact, they’re now building out even as I speak, long before the President’s visit, we’re expanding the smart city programme to Region Six and Three. These are the most populous, so Four, Three and Six. These are the three most populous regions in the country. They have a contract to put in the cameras, etc.”

NUMBERS

The Vice President also explained that the Government is also moving ahead with its biometrics programme. Next week will, in fact, see the second reading of a Bill for the new e-data card for individual use… one that will add to, not replace the traditional ID card issued by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

“We’re now moving parallel with that, the biometrics programme. On the third you will have a piece of legislation tabled in Parliament to allow the new electronic-based ID card to come into place, not to replace the one issued by GECOM, but this one will have people’s biometrics, which will be used for security services for enhanced security in the country.”

“Most of our focus with Huawei so far has been on putting up infrastructure like the smart city programme. We’re expanding that to a smart country programme. So, it will be more the cameras, the fibre, the switching gear, all of that. Domestic use,” the Vice

The electronic identification card (e-ID card) project is a major initiative that the Government is pursuing. This will see the biometric data of each citizen being compiled into an e-ID card

Guyana. It will also have internationally recognised features that will be accepted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for international travel.

This will tie into the Government’s plans to make Guyana’s airports paperless, using the biometrics from the e-ID card for citizens as well as efforts to boost local security by expanding the safe city initiative countrywide.

The Data Protection Bill 2023 will govern the use of the e-ID cards and this includes protecting citizens’ personal data. This means any unauthorised use of data will see persons facing hefty fines and a jail term.

President said.

Previously, Jagdeo had said that a lot of work has to be done to build a national Cybersecurity Master Plan. That master plan, according to Jagdeo, will have several components including the development of specific sectors that will bring a big impact.

that will be used for a host of transactions and services.

A US$35.4 million contract with German-based company, Veridos Identity Solutions, was inked in March. In addition to increasing the ease of doing business, the e-ID card will also allow the Government to monitor migrants in

Similarly, the privacy of citizens’ medical information will be a top priority as the Government seeks to implement its “one-chart” initiative. This programme will consolidate persons’ medical history onto a shared database that can be accessed by authorised medical institutions – both private and public.

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Constitutional Reform and Justice

With constitutional change on the agenda for the last two years, we agree with the Government that we need to engender broad acceptance across the political, ethnic and other divisions of the people, and especially among the politicians. While we may sometimes falter, Guyanese are attuned to the British contractual tradition of Liberalism, which envisages individuals bargaining rationally to produce a “contract” that would protect their interests. It was assumed that the actual principles rested on the moral foundation of the contract, and centred on liberty and equality, which were the central values that Liberalism attempted to implement and balance.

This tradition ranged from Hobbes to Locke (who postulated an actual original contract entered into by rational agents who would act in accordance with the requirements of liberal justice) to Kant, who accepted that the contract does not have to exist in fact, but should still bargain as if one existed.

Kant, then, proposed that the solution to the inevitable conflicts in organised human societies lay in the design of appropriate institutions. Kant proposed that institutions, as with all normative behaviour, would have to satisfy the “categorical imperative”: which, if followed, would ensure the person(s) behaving in accordance with it are behaving morally. Most commentators who followed him agreed with his stricture that institutions constituting a state must be organised in accordance with the principle of justice, but there were interminable discussions as to whether particular proposals satisfied or did not satisfy the categorical imperative. John Rawls, the most influential of modern liberal political philosophers, came up with another formulation to guide the formation of social institutions nearly two centuries later, in 1971. It had the great virtue of simplicity.

In the opening line of the first section of his magnum opus, A Theory of Justice, Rawls boldly declared that the principle of “justice” is the standard that would generate the broad acceptability for the establishment of any institution necessary to implement any initiative for enduring stability. “Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought.” Recognizing that Guyana does not even reach Rawls’s definition of a society as “a cooperative venture for mutual advantage, it is typically marked by a conflict as well as by an identity of interests”, his definition of “justice” is very pertinent to our effort to construct a democratic state in Guyana: “…a way of assigning rights and duties in the basic institutions of society, and they define the appropriate distribution of the benefits and burdens of social cooperation.”

More importantly, Rawls introduced a methodology for arriving at substantive principles for making decisions in divisive situations such as we have in Guyana, where it is vital that the decisions are seen as not favouring any one constituency. Procedurally, Rawls proposed that we make our suggestions about the fundamental principles that will structure and govern society from behind a metaphorical “veil of ignorance” that precludes us from taking into consideration our personal position, class, gender, race, religion, and even intelligence or interests in the matter under consideration.

This “justice as fairness” would provide the requisite objectivity and impartiality in judgment necessary to engender the requisite trust, “since all are similarly situated and no one is able to design principles to favour his particular condition, the principles of justice are the result of a fair agreement or bargain.” With such principles, we would not formulate, for instance, rules that would put minorities at a disadvantage, since we could possibly be members of a minority group.

Rawls derived two substantive principles of justice that have been very influential since then in liberal political thought. However, he himself accepted they were most applicable to the developed democracies with strong economic foundations. In Guyana, we would have to derive our substantive principles of justice along similar lines, because of our development trajectory. Based on our history, however, justice for Guyanese institutions - especially our Constitution - would have to ensure that the values of liberty and equity are on the top of the agenda.

Should the US be the model for Guyana?

Dear Editor, The Guyanese people’s fascination with the United States is limitless. America is a dreamland of limitless possibilities. And yes, there are grounds for looking up to the United States. There are too many good things to enumerate here.

At the same time, the US is a deeply troubled country, and those who want the new Guyana to become like America had better beware. It is best to begin with some simple facts on income, health, and education.

Real median household income in the US in 2021 was US$70,784, among the highest in the world. Yet, 37% of Americans (in 2023) do not have enough cash if they had an unexpected expense of $400, and 18% do not have even $100 in cash for an emergency expense. In 2022, 44% of Americans spent more than they earned, and 65% reported not having enough retirement savings (Will Daniel, 5/23/2023). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2022 and April 2023, real average wages dropped.

According to a recent study by Dr. Amy Glasmeier and colleagues of MIT, a living wage in the US should be $45 an hour. The Federal Minimum Wage, however, is $7.25 an hour. Many states and counties have mandated a $15.00 minimum wage, but there are numerous modifications that prevent universal enforcement. Note also that a large illegal or otherwise vulnerable labour force translates into wages being paid even below the Federal Minimum of $7.25. Most of the vulnerable workers have zero benefits, and no protection under labour law.

If you take other key indi-

cators of wellbeing (human development), things do not look so good for Americans. Let us start with health. No less than 28 million Americans have no healthcare insurance of any kind. Medicare and Medicaid are not automatic. Those with insurance pay through their teeth.

“If you are buying an ACA (Obama Care) plan as non-subsidized health insurance for a family of 4, you can expect to pay about $25,000 for the year in premiums and deductibles. That breaks down to an average of $17,244 in annual premium cost for health insurance for families of 4, and $7,767 in deductible expenses” (Davalon, October 28, 2022).

This does not include prescriptions. Note that medications in the US are among the highest priced in the world. Research by Rand Corporation found that Americans pay more than 150% higher prices for medication than in 32 countries.

“U.S. patients are even paying triple the price for Rx drugs as Koreans, Portuguese and Australians, and 3.5 times as much as Slovakians, Greeks and residents of some of the Baltic countries” (K. Buchholz, 8/9/2022).

650,000 people in the US go bankrupt every year due to medical bills. You should note that this is not restricted to “surprise billing”, which is a particularly pernicious form of extortion in the world of medical billing. The No Surprises Act (NSA) effective from January 2022 has helped, but has not prevented medical billing.

What Guyanese should know is that even though Americans pay huge premiums for health insurance, they must still cough up something called “co-pay.” This is an ad-

ditional fee you pay every time you have an appointment.

Shall we turn to education please? Students in the United States owe more than US$1 trillion in debt. The average college student who took out a loan owes US$20,000 twenty years after they graduate. The tuition for most topnotch universities in the US is more than $55,000. Many have reached $75,000 per annum. Note that this is not for professional training in medicine, law, engineering, or business. This is just for the Bachelor’s degree! Two further points here: firstly, the figures above do not include living expenses – housing, food, books, transportation, and everyday living. Secondly, while scholarships are widely available, only a small percentage of students get a ‘full ride.’ The scholarships, while impressive in dollar amounts, usually cover only about a third of tuition, and nothing towards housing, books and other fees.

You should also note that there is extraordinarily little funding for the Master’s degree. Currently, 43 million students have outstanding loans. The average debt to the Federal Government is $37,000, while private debts stand at US$54,921 (M. Hansen).

There are also huge racial disparities in student debt. “Four years after graduating, nearly half of Black graduates owe more on their loans than their initial balance, compared with just seventeen per cent of White graduates” (E. Schirmer, New Yorker, 7/27/2022). Many older Americans are still paying off student loans. 2.8 million who are in their 60s are still clearing their student debts.

The education system is rife with inequalities. A great

deal depends on race, class, and zip codes. Since these variables are highly intersected, the K-12 education system is one of staggering inequalities. A good indicator of these inequalities can be garnered from the data on “Free or Reduced Lunch” (F&R) programs. These programs provide free lunch or low to students based on family income.

Right now, 53 million American kids are on F&R (https://educationdata.org/ average-student-loan-debt).

When that figure is disaggregated by county, and then by zip code, the picture of structural inequality becomes even more stark.

Maryland is one of the richest states in the US, but even here, the Baltimore City Public School district has an F&R rate of 88.24%. This means that 88.24% of families in this school district do not earn enough to purchase or make lunch for their children. There are millions of families that suffer from the same poverty.

CLR James once stated that the United States is a great and interesting country. I agree. What makes it interesting, however, might give pause to the narrative of a land of milk and honey. Guyanese who have not lived in the US cannot know the hardships, sacrifices, and multiple challenges that Americans are faced with daily. And do note, we have not even touched mass shootings, xenophobia, racism, or political divisiveness that can and have troubled the democratic tradition of that great nation. All things considered, therefore, should the US be a role model for Guyana?

Sincerely, Dr

Duo burns to death as car explodes after crashing into utility pole

Two persons were burnt to death in the wee hours of Saturday after the vehicle in which they travelling crashed into a utility pole and subsequently burst into flames at Dundee,

A fire tender from the Mahaica Fire Station responded to the scene and put out the blaze. As a result of the impact, the telephone and electric cables were destroyed.

Residents believe that a

Mahaicony, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Dead are Mervyn McAllister, 44, a contractor of Lot 11 Airy Hall Mahaicony, and 30-year-old Fredrick Fraser of Huntley, Mahaicony. Police stated that at the time of the accident, McAllister was driving motor car PAB 8723 and proceeding west along the southern side of the road at a fast rate when he lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a turn and ended up colliding with a GPL pole and a concrete fence.

As a result of the collision, the vehicle burst into flames. The driver and occupant, Fraser, were both burnt to death beyond recognition.

live electric wire might have gotten into the car and electrocuted the duo before igniting sparks that led to the car bursting into flames.

According to Lakhram Mahase, a mechanic, he was summoned to the scene and he along with others used fire extinguishers and water from two nearby drums to put out

the blaze but the heat was too much for them to get to the two men.

He related that when the Fire Service arrived, they were eventually able to get their water pump working

ly left a construction site in Georgetown on Friday evening. At the time of the crash, the two men had already passed their homes but their destination remains unknown.

Meanwhile, Yvonne Fraser, the mother of one of the dead men, stated that she was able to recognise her son

from his gold teeth.

She revealed that his mouth was opened when she visited the mortuary to identify him. The woman stated that his footwear was also intact and she used it as anoth-

er means of identifying the father on one.

Police are waiting on autopsies to be performed on the bodies as the investigation continues. (Andrew Carmichael)

and dozed the vehicle until it stopped smoking.

The mechanic explained that the engine of the car was not burnt, which indicated that the fire started from sparks coming from the electric wire.

Fraser was employed with McAllister as a mason.

The two had reported-

Police retrieve firearm dropped by escaping duo

The Police have retrieved a .32 Taurus pistol with an empty magazine that was reportedly dropped by two men who had earlier opened fire on two Police ranks at Camp and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, on Friday evening.

Police stated that on the day in question, a Detective Inspector was in the company of friends at a bar along Camp and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, when he observed two men approaching another man who exited a white motor car.

The men reportedly dealt the man several cuffs to his body and seeing that, the Inspector and other persons shouted at them to desist but whilst they were going to the man’s aid, one of the suspects whipped out a

handgun from his waist and discharged three rounds in their direction.

As a result, the Inspector drew his service 9mm pistol and discharged five rounds in the direction of the duo who began to run. In the process of making good their escape, one of the men dropped the firearm.

The firearm was subsequently retrieved and during an inspection of the weapon, there was no ammunition in the magazine.

Efforts were also made to locate the victim but Police were not successful. Investigations are continuing.

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY DOG – CONTINUED

not getting the sleep that is needed. The caregiver might wish, upon observation of this development, to reduce the external stimuli and stressors whenever and wherever possible.

Last week, we shared some general observations relative to the definition of an elderly dog and expressed some factors that influenced the aging process. Today, let us continue with some changes which take place in the dog, and which effect the animal’s behaviour and physical being.

BEHAVIOURAL CHANGES

Clearly, the elderly dog is less energetic compared to the time when he/she was a puppy or a young/ middle aged adult. You will notice that the elderly dog is less curious and not willing (with or without the caregiver) to be adventurous or even showing any desire to go for walks or otherwise accompany the caregiver in any adventure (eg hunting) –that in his/her youth were the high points of the dog’s day. The elderly dog restricts itself to its own de -

sired scope of mobility. He/ she is less playful. They become imprisoned (self-imposed) in a fixed routine which does not call for much movement.

Further:

* They sleep a lot.

* They exhibit a fixation with their own hab -

ty of any sort; and if they exhibit variations in their erstwhile behavioural patterns, please do not interpret these unusual ca -

less inconsistences (for example, defecating/ urinating where they lie) may be a reflection of their unwillingness to waste en -

I should mention that, in Guyana, there is a novel and positive development, namely the boarding and general care for dogs during the caregiver’s absence for varying lengths of time. While I generally support the concept of boarding dogs in competent and capable establishments, it has been known that the elderly dog tends to eat poorly in such estab -

its (when to urinate; when to defecate; when to give the caregiver the signal for the latter to present food.

(N.B: Elderly dogs do not need to be fed more than once a day – at a time preferable to the dog)

* In other words, they do not wish for any changes in their daily routine. Not too much variabili -

prices as their desire to irritate you. These whimsical, seemingly purpose -

ergy, or even an on-coming patho-physiological change which should evoke the caregiver’s concern. In other words, elderly dogs are just simply intolerant of changes (imposed upon them by the caregiver), unless they approve of an intervention which makes them more comfortable.

* The elderly dog becomes forgetful. This is not analogous to unwillingness. He/she just simply has forgotten to perform a usual task – like bringing in the newspaper. Of course, if it is raining, his/her inactivity is just a plain unwillingness, in a commonsensical way, not to get wet).

* The elderly dog exhibits crankiness, intolerance and irritability for seemingly no reason at all. Is there a similarity with elderly humans? My wife thinks that there is.

* Clients complain that their elderly dogs become hyper-anxious. They bark more frequently to any perceived change in their immediate environment. This latter behaviour can result in the elderly dog

lishments. There are many reasons for this – not lastly the geriatric dog’s inability and/or unwillingness to accommodate the new changes (see above).

In the caregiver’s absence, it might be better to have one’s neighbour drop by as often as possible (even if only once or twice daily). The elderly dog’s veterinarian can be requested to be in constant contact with the substitute caregiver, if and when needed. This possibility may be better than boarding. Dogs, elderly or not, always fare better in their own homes. It is for this reason (as an aside), that even after surgery, I advocate that, post-surgery, the dog awakes from the anesthetic at home, in the presence of its family, instead of being kept overnight in the vet’s facility/hospital until the next day.

You have just read the “Behavioural Changes” associated with the elderly dog. Next week, we’ll zero in on actual physical changes that occur as “Rover”/ “Bella” becomes elderly.

Govt to work with Chinese Landing community to find solutions

– permission sought from Toshao to field inter-agency team

While its efforts to ensure the concerns of residents at Chinese Landing were addressed did not always meet with success in the past, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is assuring that it will work along with residents to ensure mutually agreeable solutions can be found.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) recently issued Resolution 41/2023, through which it granted precautionary measures in favour of members of the Indigenous Carib Community of Chinese Landing, who it said are currently at “serious, urgent risk of suffering irreparable harm to their human rights”.

In the wake of this decision, the PPP/C Government has announced that a team would soon be sent to the Region One (BarimaWaini) community to meet with residents there. In a statement, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance further said that they will work with residents to find solutions.

“A new multisectoral fact-finding team is being assembled of Government officials to be deployed into Chinese Landing to further assess the social and environmental issues which need to be addressed based on the IACHR summary of its decision and guided by the terms of reference for the team. This team will report directly to the

high-level committee coordinated by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance,” the Ministry said.

“Upon the completion of the fact-finding mission, the high-level committee will invite representatives of the Chinese Landing Village Council, the mining company, and miners operating in the area as well as relevant agencies to engage in discussions about mutually beneficial and amicable measures which can be adopted in the interest of protecting fundamental human rights of all concerned. This is in keeping with the precautionary measures issued which stipulate that the State must consult and adopt measures.”

According to the Ministry, it will also submit a formal response to the IACHR, informed by the results of the fact-finding mission, consultations, and fur-

ther investigations. It was pointed out by the Ministry that after it submitted a response to the IACHR on April 17, 2023, the complainants made a further submission that IACHR did not give the PPP/C a chance to respond to. Instead, precautionary measures were issued afterward.

The Ministry assured that the relevant authorities will conduct further scientific studies to ascertain the environmental impacts of the mining. These studies will, according to the Ministry, be informed by consultations with the community and relevant experts. However, the Ministry also revealed that despite requesting permission to send the fact-finding mission to their lands, Toshao Orin Fernandes has yet to respond.

Notwithstanding this, the Ministry was hopeful it could also work with the community to develop a permanent system of monitoring and reporting on any issues that arise, which could threaten their livelihood.

“This mechanism will allow for reports to be recorded, dispatched to the relevant authorities and acted upon in a timely manner. Any reports of infringements on human rights in contradiction of the Constitution and legislation of Guyana will be investigated and acted upon accordingly,” the Ministry said.

Previous efforts

Meanwhile, the

Government made it clear that efforts have been made by the State over the years, through regulatory agencies such as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), to address the concerns of the Chinese Landing community about the work of the miner in question, Wayne Vieira.

“The medium-scale mining concession in question was granted to Vieira in 1995 in an area of the land known as Tassawini. This granting of the concession in 1995 predated the Amerindian Act of 2006 which is now the principal legal authority requiring consent of the Village Council and the miner to carry out mining activities and for the Village Council to receive royalties directly from the miner.”

“Noteworthy is that Mr Vieira and the Chinese Landing Village Council entered into an Agreement on July 19th, 1998. This agreement was not renewed by the Village Council after the passage of the Amerindian Act. On July 27, 2011, the Village Council formally wrote to the GGMC that it had decided not to renew the

agreement with Mr Vieira.”

The Ministry noted that the Village Council’s decision not to renew Vieira’s license was backed up by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the GGMC, which issued a cease work order in 2010 since he had no formal agreement with the Village Council.

“Vieira then moved to the courts, bringing a claim against the validity of the CWO issued by GGMC which he won in 2012. The GGMC did not renew Mr Vieira’s license. This resulted in two other cases which were brought in 2013,” the Ministry said.

“This case made its way through the domestic judicial system, and in December 2017, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Guyana’s apex court, ruled in favour of Vieira, thereby rendering the CWO void. In keeping with the principles of respecting the rule of law, Mr Vieira’s mining permits were renewed on April 17, 2018.”

Since then, a new case against Vieira and the GGMC was brought in 2021. While this case was also dismissed, it is now being ap-

pealed. Meanwhile, the Ministry noted that one of the problems with Chinese Landing is that formal reports were not being made to the relevant local authorities, and as such, there were no records to allow legal proceedings against alleged perpetrators. Additionally, efforts to find the alleged victims have proven unsuccessful.

At his press conference on Thursday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had meanwhile revealed that there is a division within the Chinese Landing community with some for and against the mining. Additionally, he said that there are reports of other illegal miners, which further complicates the issue.

The IACHR is a principal and autonomous body of the Organisation of American States (OAS), whose mandate stems from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission has the mandate to promote the observance and defence of human rights in the Region and acts as an advisory body to the OAS on the matter.

Harping…

…on race

Your Eyewitness is very disappointed - but not really surprised - about the continuous harping on “race” to explain anything and everything perceived negatively happening in Guyana by PNC and their campfollower types. In fact, if these accounts are to be believed, race ain’t no variable no longer in our dear mudland, but a constant! Fella gets robbed as he staggers home from the rum shop. Race! Cocaine discovered in saltfish? Race! Never mind about cocaine in the vagina!!

And we arrive at their claims about a “creeping apartheid state” after Granger grudgingly allowed the PPP to take office - five months after they were voted in!! “Race”! Your Eyewitness knows the PNC doesn’t have much experience with the change of governments in Guyana and the ensuing transitions!! After all, under Burnham and Hoyte, they rigged their way into power for almost three decades - until finally the latter was forced to allow “free and fair” elections.

But we saw, at that point, the appearance of race as the new explanatory variable for everything political and sociological. Even before the election was called, one exstrongman started insisting that the “white man” Jimmy Carter was bent on ousting the PNC. Why? Well, duhrace! Carter was just another “Redneck” from the US Deep South who had it in for Blacks! And as the PPP attempted to govern and was forced to get rid of some of the “square pegs in round holes” accumulated over the previous 28 years, there came the cries of “ethnic cleansing” in THAT incarnation!! Race! And never mind that Hoyte had fired more (African) Public Servants in his five years, at the behest of the IMF than the PPP would do over the course of the 23 years they’d govern Guyana! But not Race!

But when they got in for five years after 2015 and filled Bertrand Collins Public Service College with NINE-TWO PERCENT African Guyanese – that WASN’T race!! Or when Granger fired 7000 mostly Indian Guyanese sugar workers. Or the two Indian top brass of the Police Force. Or when 16 out of 17 Permanent Secretaries were also African Guyanese!! Or the $2.6 BILLION RURAL Agricultural Infrastructural Development (RAID) programme was implemented ONLY in African villages!!

But back to the “creeping apartheid state”. Now, if apartheid is meant for the different racial groups separately, how come the PNC is screaming bloody murder that the PPP is “invading” African Guyanese communities to – gasp!!!! – give away house lots and jobs and other goodies??!!

Yeah really: what’s race got to do with it?

…but ignoring facts

Some are taking Trotman’s book on his role in the Exxon Contract as if it came carved in stone from behind a burning bush! But how come he ignored Global Witness’s “signed away” claims??

For instance, on June 23, 2016, he’d emailed a govt O&G consultant saying Exxon had asked for an extension of some drilling leases that were set to expire. He said then he saw it as an opportunity to revise some of the terms of the Frontier 1999 agreement - which split profit oil 50-50 with a ONE-PERCENT royalty for the country!! The consultant suggested allowing the contract to expire –then threaten to host a bidding process and a 10% royalty!!

Another adviser suggested a 15% royalty and that he hire 10 or 20 experts on the renegotiation, not just the one he had. But unknown to either adviser, Trotman signed the new deal with Exxon four days later, on June 27, 2016. He kept the 50-50 “frontier” 1999 profit sharing - after Exxon took 75% for its expenses!! There was the piddling secret signing bonus of US$18 million and another 1% more royalty!

He was told to sign?? Like Eichman was TOLD to gas 6 million Jews??

…on the past

If you obsess over anything, it’s almost impossible to move beyond it and seize other opportunities that may present themselves. Take the PNC’s obsession with the “poverty” in their constituency. Shouldn’t they be focusing on wealth??

GBTI records $1.4B after-tax profit in mid-year report

– Chairman says loan portfolio, favourable market boosted performance

The Guyana Bank Trade and Industry (GBTI) has once again recorded growth in its half-year profits, which increased to some $1.4 billion over the past six months.

This was revealed by GBTI Chairman Robin Stoby, in his report on the financial performance of the bank and its subsidiary for the first six months of the financial year ended June 30, 2023.

During the first half of the year, the Chairman said GBTI and its subsidiary recorded a profit after tax of $1,415 million compared to $1,291 million for the corresponding period in 2022. This represents an increase of 10 per cent or $124 million.

Stoby also reported that the group’s total assets also grew from $160 billion to $186 billion, a solid increase of 16 per cent.

According to the GBTI Chairman, the group’s improved performance is influenced by an improving loan portfolio as well as more favourable market conditions.

“We anticipate a similar trend for the rest of the year as the local economy continues to grow,” Stoby stated.

Based on the unaudited

financial statements, which were approved by the Board on July 19 and are published in today’s edition of Guyana Times, the after-tax profit for GBTI – Guyana’s largest indigenous bank – also increased over the past six months to $1,384 million. This is compared to $1,163 million recorded during the same period last year.

GBTI’s total assets for the current reporting period also went up to $185 billion from the $159 billion net in the first half of 2022.

Nevertheless, as a result of the improved performance, the GBTI Board declared an interim dividend of $13 per share.

However, even as the GBTI Chairman looks forward to a similar growing trend for the second half of 2023, he is still cognisant of various global events that could potentially impact the local economy.

Stoby pointed out that the world economy is facing severe headwinds amid weak growth prospects, elevated inflation, and heightened uncertainties.

“A confluence of factors, including legacy effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the protracted war in Ukraine, the ever-worsening impacts of climate change, and rapidly shifting macro-economic conditions, are weighing on the global outlook,” he noted.

Global growth is now projected to slow from 3.1 per cent in 2022 to 2.3 per cent in 2023. Stoby added that the current rising interest rate environment is expected to cause slowdowns in the developed world.

Back in March of this year, GBTI had reported that 2022 was an exceptional year for the bank, with a net income after tax of $2.3 billion. In addition, 2022 ended with $175 billion in total assets, along with an

exponential improvement in its asset quality.

Against a background of a rapidly expanding economy, loans grew by 33 per cent for the year to $65 billion, while deposits grew by 20 per cent to $148 billion.

“GBTI sees encouraging portents for continued positive growth in 2023. We anticipate a continuing growth trajectory and strengthening of our posi-

tion in the local market,”

Chief Executive Officer James Foster had stated.

The banking institution had noted a highlight of that performance is the transformative digital drive through upgraded software computer systems overall, and “Go-Banking” in the last quarter of 2022, without negative impact on its increasingly digital-savvy customers.

“The upgrade process is ongoing; staff training is continuous, and clients are sharing expressions of support and greater confidence in the bank and Guyana’s economy. GBTI’s competitive performance in 2022 was fuelled further by an empowered team conversant with, and committed to, achieving its strategic priorities,” the bank noted in a release. (G-8)

Emancipation vs freedom

On Tuesday we will observe “Emancipation Day” to commemorate that inaugural event of our country’s history: the emancipation of enslaved Africans on August 1st, 1838. On 28 August 1833, the Slavery Abolition Act had been given Royal Assent to come into force on 1 August 1834. As such it was not unreasonable that in Essequibo, Damon led a rebellion of hundreds when they were informed, they had to continue working for another four years under the same conditions of “no pay”, as “apprentices”. The full title of Act, however, revealed the sly caveats that made a mockery of the word “emancipation” and freedom: “An Act for the Abolition of Slavery throughout the British Colonies; for promoting the industry of the manumitted Slaves; and for compensating the Persons hitherto entitled to the Services of such Slaves”. The so-called “apprenticeship” period was hypocritically not for extracting another four years of free labour, but for “promoting the industry of the freed slaves”.

The ‘Anti-Slavery Society’, formed in 1823 was led by William Wilberforce who had argued: ‘To grant freedom to (the slaves) immediately would be to insure not only their masters’ ruin but their own. They must (first) be trained and educated for freedom.’ This “training and education” was to be channelled through the Christian Churches, which focused on creating individuals who would act “properly”. This meant an acceptance of the stratification system justified by the “Great Chain of Being”, with a White God in heaven represented by his white son Jesus on earth, followed by white Angels also in heaven followed by humans, with Whites at the apex and Blacks/Africans at the bottom.

The category of “race” had been created to justify the enslavement of Africans, who had been defined as bereft of souls. Other non-white groups were placed in intermediate positions between White and Black as the European rulers saw fit. After the wholesale rape of enslaved African women by Whites on West Indian plantations, a new Coloured stratum was created here and given an intermediate position above Africans. After emancipation, “marrying up” meant marrying someone with a “fairer” complexion but since the offspring’s phenotype could veer randomly towards “Black”, this precipitated a deep schizophrenia in that group.

Wilberforce’s “training and education for freedom” is the key point we should reflect on this Emancipation Day: the assumption by the White establishment, including the anti-slavery movement, that the formerly enslaved workers were incapable of making responsible decisions in a “cash-based” economy and had to be tutored into its ways. Never mind that during slavery, the enslaved Africans had reared livestock, cultivated provisions and vegetables and sold them in Sunday Markets. As a matter of fact, even though the status quo was supposed to remain in place post-1834, with the freed Africans allowed to earn wages after completing their daily tasks, it was the manager’s killing of the workers’ pigs that pushed Damon and his colleagues over the brink to rebel.

The Churches were funded by the state to first establish schools in the villages that the Africans spontaneously founded after 1838. They focused on creating “Black Englishmen” along the lines of Thomas Macaulay’s “Minute on Indian Education” to the Indian Parliament in 1835. This outlined how “Brown Englishmen” were to be created to serve the interest of the colonial power. There was nothing but superstition in local knowledge and culture, which was to be wiped out. Not coincidentally, Thomas Macaulay was the son of the slaveryabolitionist Zachary Macaulay. Queens College, founded in 1844, which eventually accepted coloureds and Africans, epitomized that pattern of transmitting the European hegemony.

Because of the cruelties inflicted on Africans during slavery, the planters were convinced that after emancipation, retribution would become the order of the new day. The Guyana Police Force was therefore organized by 1838 but its launch was delayed for one year when it was decided to model it not on the unarmed London Metropoliton “Bobbies” but on the armed Irish Constabulary that was organized as a pacification Force. Police Stations were soon established near the new villages and manned by immigrant Barbadian recruits with White officers: the locals were not trusted to discipline their “matties”. Our centralized and authoritarian police culture was inculcated from its beginning.

We need to appreciate Hanna Arendt’s observation: “… liberation may be the condition of freedom, but by no means leads automatically to it”. The formal and informal institutions and structures implicit in the mental chains of our “education” need reexamination.

Luke’s Manufacturing, a local manufacturing company which specializes mainly in cassava products, has recently received its ‘Made in Guyana’ standard mark after almost 10 years in business. This was revealed by the owner of the company, John Luke, during a telephone interview with Guyana Times on Friday.

According to Luke, the company received the mark from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) about two weeks ago.

Reflecting on the birth of the company, Luke shared that he realized there was a lot of wastage of foods such as cassava, jamoon and cherries, and he founded Luke’s Manufacturing with the main focus of using these foods to create products that can be used by consumers daily.

Mangroves and the Environment

What are Mangroves?

Mangroves are trees and shrubs that grow in saline coastal habitats in the tropics and subtropics. They normally form plant communities along the coastal areas between the land and sea where they are flooded by tides. This is called the 'intertidal zone'. Mangroves have the extraordinary ability to filter out salt through their roots and excrete it from their leaves, which makes them highly adaptive to this type of habitat.

Distribution…

The mangrove vegetation of the world can be divided into two broad categories:

• The “old world” mangroves found in the pacific region extending from the east coast of Africa to the South Pacific.

• The “new world” mangroves, found along the west coast of Africa; the North America (east coast) and South America (coastline of Guyana, Venezuela Suriname, French Guiana) and Brazil and on the west coast between Mexico and northern Peru.

• In Guyana, the mangroves grow extensively along the coastline, (where the land meets the sea) and can be seen in estuaries of rivers (Demerara, Berbice, Essequibo).

Characteristics…

• Mangroves thrive in areas of high rainfall and moist air.

• Their soils contain a lot of salt and water, and little oxygen. The mangroves grow best in clayey soils, which are formed by the build-up of water-borne soil particles.

• Mangroves have shallow roots, which do not penetrate deep into the soil; therefore, they are very vulnerable to strong winds and waves.

• Mangroves are influenced greatly by the tides of Guyana’s coastal plain. Mangrove seeds are dispersed by water, which carry them both upstream and downstream. Tides regulate the spread of mangrove forest in addition to the salinity concentration of water in mangrove areas.

Types of Mangroves in Guyana

In Guyana, there are three species of mangroves, namely:

• Red Mangrove or (Rhizophora mangle)

• Black Mangrove or (Avicennia germinans)

• White Mangrove or (Laguncularia racemosa)

Importance…

As insignificant as they may seem to you, mangroves play a very important role in the environment. As we walk along the seawall, mangroves line the sea bank, but we carelessly destroy them and don’t even stop to think what their roles are. Below are just some of the important functions of Mangroves in the environment:

• Provide protection against erosion for our coastline

• Provide fuel-wood for domestic cooking

• Many traditional medicines are made from mangroves, including those for treating skin disorders, headaches, rheumatism, snake bite, ulcers, and many more.

• Support wildlife and shelter grounds for aquatic species

• Offer good sites for bee hives

• Bark is used for the extraction of tannin

• Assist in reducing water pollution by filtering pollutants present in the water.

• Link marine and terrestrial ecosystems

• Poles are used for mooring boats and supporting nets

• Provide aesthetic, scientific and educational benefits due to the uniqueness of the ecosystem

• Vines can be used to make handicraft items.

• Black Mangroves may be the best land stabilizer due to easier seedling transport, quick aerial root production, underground root systems increase sedimentholding capabilities, higher tolerance to cold temperatures, better ability to inhabit "artificial" sites (dredge, fill, etc).

• During extreme storms and hurricanes, mangrove forests protect landward coastal area by mitigating damage from waves, currents, and winds.

A variety of organisms utilize mangrove habitats. Under the prop root complex and tidal channels lie a multitude of marine species in a delicate balance. In addition, the fine, anoxic sediments under the mangroves at as a sink for a variety of heavy (trace) metals.

Help us protect our precious mangroves! We need it more than it needs us!

Bamboo trees have been around the village of Wakapao, in the Lower Pomeroon, for generations, but today the village is exploiting multiple uses of the plants, including adding to the village’s coffee-making experience cups and trays made from the trees.

“We have been burning the trees for years,” Wakapao Toshao Lloyd Perreira told Guyana Times recently.

Bamboo trees produce a lot of dust after cutting, he said, and villagers would stack the cut trees and burn them whenever they are clearing lands. “We did not know how to preserve it,” the village leader said.

Wakapao village has been working to preserve and market its rich tourism potential, and its unique blends of coffee have been cited as key to strengthening the village economy.

Coffee and tourism

Three years ago, Wakapao launched its “Destination Wakapao” tourism package, a project which invites visitors to the 29 islands which make up the marsh surroundings of the Indigenous village. During that time, villagers started exploring the use of bamboo for various purposes, including making craft items from the stems of the plant.

According to Perreira, a team from the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) recently visited the village to facilitate training of locals in culinary arts, guiding them on how to prepare fresh and tasty foods, including nibbly snacks as well as fresh juices. The team also taught the villagers how to make cups from bamboo plants, and offered to provide support to the tourism potential of Wakapao.

The village leader explained that Wakapao is well known for its coffee production. According to him, pails of coffee are

produced during the two annual crops. “Coffee is a good business here, “he said. There currently are approximately 120 families who have coffee berries. “That is about half of the number of farmers which we have in total,” he said. “When people come, we want to be able to serve our famous coffee to them, and the bamboo cups and trays is what we plan to utilize as part of this experience,” Perreira explained.

Women’s involvement

Perreira said Wakapao’s plan is to serve the best of its coffee to visitors, both local and international, and his aim is to ensure that everyone is involved in making bamboo craft items, including women. “My intention is to start with a group and produce cups and trays,” he said.

He said an idea which he plans to propose to the Village Council is the formation of a women’s group, and as part of its mandate, the group will pursue various methods of

making bamboo craft items. The women, he said, can gain a skill from the project while also earning an income.

The challenges

Perreira said preparing the bamboo shoots to make the cups and trays is a delicate process. The trees are first chopped into parts, and then placed in a container of water. Lime peels and salt are then added to the water to preserve and cleanse the bamboo. The water is then drained, and the bamboo is rinsed and placed in another container with water, wherein it is boiled. After a period, the bamboo is extracted from the container and then dried.

It is then cut to size, and the

process of cutting into cup sizes begins. He said parts of the stem are also cut into sizes to make trays.

One of the challenges the project faces is finding the right adhesive to ‘hold’ the cups and trays in place. He said he is exploring various markets for the ‘correct’ adhesive which can withstand the tests of hot and cold liquids.

Another issue, he said, is the size of the container in which the bamboo stems are boiled. But he posited that the use of steel drums may be the answer to that issue.

Wakapao sits some two miles away from the Atlantic Ocean, and Perreira noted that visitors travel for four miles

under the forest canopy before entering the main river leading to the village.

He said currently there is not much accommodation for visitors who wish to overnight, although there is a private guest house that can accommodate eight persons. He said the Village Council plans to embark on this aspect of its tourism project, and he noted that accommodation for large numbers of visitors is another project which is being pursued.

“If we are promoting tourism, we have to set the basis for it, and accommodation is one of those things we need,” he said. “Visitors can come and enjoy our coffee, and go fish-trapping and have more coffee afterwards.”

SUNDAY, JULY 30, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

He said the business, which currently operates in the Pomeroon, has approximately 20 workers, who work on a part-time basis. He said they are currently working to expand their operations, which would result in more people being gainfully employed.

"The plans for the business in the future [are] about creating jobs for the young and elderly. Once they can work, we have jobs to create for them. Also… that we would have trained people to take them to the next level. We embarking [on] training [and] night&-day job creation. We will have two sessions: 8 hours day, and 8 hours night, because of the increase of sales that will be coming in when

we branch out for the online shop,” he explained.

The budding entrepreneur shared that the reason his employees work on a part-time basis is due to the small workspace, which cannot accommodate a large number of persons at the same time. Luke told Guyana Times that the company is currently seeking to acquire land.

"Presently now, what's [challenging] us is (having) land available to the company, that we can able to expand these kinds of operations. We applied to the Government to get these lands, [and] as soon as we get those land available… then we could able to supply jobs from 25 to 50, and from 50 to 100 persons -- increas-

ing job creation. And that is one of the biggest criteria right now…that we're working on presently now,” Luke explained.

On the topic of challenges, Luke explained that two of the biggest challenges his company is currently facing are: finding adequate storage to keep materials, and shipping that would get his products to foreign countries in the desired timeframe.

“The challenge that we had and having up to now is storing raw materials such as the bottles, [and] the shipment from country to country. One of the big problems we have [presently] to get products out of the country is the shipment. Not getting a proper shipping company that the products can

Some of the Made in Guyana-certified products that are produced by Luke’s Manufacturing

go ahead and they can sell at a reasonable price over there …that's our biggest problem here right now. We have people willing to take it off over there (the United States and Canada), but the timings that it meeting

over there [is challenging].

[We’re] trying to get a better shipping company to get it to ship out,” Luke explained.

sauce, wines, achar, and many other items which are available at the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) in Georgetown and at several supermarkets and shops in Essequibo.

Guyanese songstress

Diana Chapman, who has won both the junior and senior calypso ti tles, has embarked on a new musical path, having teamed up with an international ly recognized American music producer.

After nearly a de cade of creating ‘quite a stir’ in the local music industry, this Lindener has now set her eyes on international recogni

es along the way, such as not placing in the Soca Monarch stage in 2020, Chapman’s resilience and determination have seen her persevering to eventually securing second place in the Senior Monarch competition in that same year.

Over the years, she released a number of popular hits, including “Let’s Live”, “All Eyes On Me”, “Man Shortage”,

ences have helped shape Chapman’s songwriting. Currently, Diana Chapman is focused on finding her own unique musical genre, and using this time to experiment and dis-

cover her artistic direction. Emphasizing her desire to create a distinct musical identity rather than following trends, she exudes a positive and fresh energy that is sure to captivate her

audience.

Although she has already achieved significant success in her hometown of Linden, Chapman’s hunger for more opportunities and international acclaim is what fuels her collaboration with Mya Richardson. Their partnership promises not only to elevate Chapman’s career, but also to delight her fans in Guyana and beyond.

“I needed to go international because there’s no music industry in Guyana. You can’t trust people,” Chapman has said. She encourages budding artists to stay focused and not give up on their dreams.

As Chapman continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, she remains dedicated to the pursuit of her dreams, and with Mya Richardson’s mentorship, the world can expect an exciting and innovative musical journey from this exceptional talent.

tion, and is eager to share her music and unique artistry with the world. To aid in her ambitious endeavour, she has joined forces with renowned American music manager Mya Richardson, who is not only a successful entrepreneur, but is also a motivational speaker, mentor, executive producer, and singer-songwriter.

Chapman’s journey into the world of music began at the tender age of five, when she took her first steps on stage as a dancer. From that moment, she fell in love with the performing arts, and set herself on a path of passion and dedi-

cation. In an interview with Guyana Times, she shared some of her most significant music experiences, her personal life, and her current career priorities.

One of the standout moments in Chapman’s career was when she won the Junior Calypso Monarch competition in her hometown of Linden at the age of 18. She went on to win the Senior Calypso Monarch several years later. This achievement served as the catalyst for her music career, and she later ventured into acting and stage plays, displaying her versatility and talent.

Despite facing challeng-

“Prayer for Guyana”, “Get Ready” and “Put Your House In Order”, among others. Today, as a devoted mother, radio announcer, and fulltime entertainer, Chapman leads a balancing act that demands careful prioritization. While juggling multiple roles can be challenging, she has developed routines that ensure each aspect of her life receives the attention it deserves. Her journey hasn’t been without its struggles, but she remains committed to her path of self-actualisation, drawing inspiration from mentors like Michael Jackson and Beyoncé, whose influ-

Guyana’s landscape continues to be transformed, and several companies are taking advantage of this development by erecting state-of-the-art apartment buildings to cater to the demands of the local hospitality sector.

One such project is the construction of luxury apartment buildings in the gated community of Green Acres at Providence, East Bank Demerara, undertaken by MACK Developers Inc. – a real estate company that is committed to bringing a higher

in the USA. His extensive knowledge and strategic acumen enable MACK Developers to seamlessly coordinate and execute projects, ensuring the highest level of quality and efficiency in every aspect of their real estate development.

Lifelong friends from Corriverton, Corentyne Berbice, Ryan and Nichol are making waves in the world of luxury real estate development with their visionary company. Rooted in a deep bond forged during their formative years at Skeldon Line Path Secondary School, Ryan and Nichol’s journey has come full circle, as they return to their homeland eager to contribute to its growth while revolutionizing the real estate landscape.

MACK Developers aims to expand its footprint by introducing luxury apartments in the East Bank (EBD) and East Coast Demerara (ECD) corridors. Those apartments would feature meticulously designed

quality of housing to the market. The primary goal of MACK Developers is to create exceptional living spaces that combine elegance, comfort, and functionality. These luxury apartments are designed for long-term rental, and are also available for sale, offering prospective homeowners and discerning tenants an opportunity to experience the epitome of refined living.

The company’s flagship project at Green Acres features 18 lavish two-bedroom apartments, each meticulously crafted to exude sophistication and provide an unparalleled living experience.

With a wealth of experience in construction and real estate development, Ryan Salim, one of the co-founders of MACK Developers, successfully worked on the development of one of the premier gated community projects in Guyana, establishing his expertise in the field over the course of two decades. Nichol Ally, the other visionary behind MACK Developers, brings a background in logistics, having served as the CEO of one of the largest logistics companies

living spaces that epitomize elegance, while also providing residents with modern amenities and an environment conducive to an elevated lifestyle. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence, MACK Developers, Inc. seeks to redefine the real estate landscape by setting new standards in luxury living.

With an impressive track record, dedication to quality, and relentless pursuit of perfection, MACK Developers is poised to transform the way people experience urban living.

CANU destroys $500M worth of local, foreign ganja

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Saturday destroyed a total of 1009 kg of local and foreign marijuana with a street value of a whopping US$2.5 million which is equivalent to G$500,000,000.

The destruction exercise took place at the former Ministry of Housing tarmac, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown. The ganja was from cases that were disposed of by the Magistrates’ Courts.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn along with CANU Head James Singh

(kg) of seized cocaine and 454.7kg of seized marijuana. This totals around 596kg of narcotics that were destroyed and are from cases that have concluded in the Magistrates’ Courts.

In 2022, a total of 3.7 tonnes of marijuana and over 124kg of cocaine were seized from various ports of entry and through operations within the country.

and other officials witnessed the burning exercise.

Singh stated that the quantity of narcotics burnt is just a fraction of the among of drugs seized for the year 2023.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit, through the period January to June 2023, seized approximately 677.40 kg of narcotics, consisting of 662.40 kg of cannabis, 14.80 kg of cocaine, 10 grams of hashish, and 90 grams of ecstasy.

The Unit also made seizures of 4 firearms and a total of 1087 ammunition seizures encompassing a diverse range of types. For the said period, the Unit handled a total of 30 cases and secured 27 convictions.

The Unit also made seizures of four firearms and a total of 1087 ammunition seizures encompassing a diverse range of types. For the said period, the Unit handled a total of 30 cases and secured 27 convictions.

CANU has also placed great emphasis on the areas of demand reduction, and institutional strengthening, collaborating with various agencies in this sector, conducting school drug prevention sensitisations throughout the country as well as working on other projects that will facilitate the development of treatment and reintegration of recovering substance users.

Only recently, Singh stat-

ed that he was pleased with the performance of the Unit while praising President Ali’s multi-agency approach that is taken to fight drug traffickers consisting of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

He also referenced several other factors that were helpful, including the establishment of a maritime section, the establishment of a joint container scanning section, a metal inspection section, the presence of CANU at key lo-

cations across the country, and more importantly, improved relationships with the public and private sector.

He added that while Guyana is deemed a transhipment point for cocaine and other drugs, this is gradually being addressed with some optimism of breaking that stereotype.

“We want to send a strong message that the Government is serious about fighting narcotics within Guyana and also Guyana will not be used as a transhipment point for narcotics to other territories.”

He nevertheless reiterated that the Government, through the Home Affairs Ministry, has been providing the necessary resources to tackle and put a dent in the drug trade. “The performance of CANU is an example of the GoG desire to fight the drug trade in trade,” he added.

Back in January, CANU destroyed 140.6 kilograms

Pedal cyclist dies after colliding with motor car

Thirty-three-year-old pedal cyclist Michael McKenzie of Meadow Bank Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, Greater Georgetown, met his demise on Friday evening after colliding with a motor car along Broad Street, Georgetown.

The accident reportedly occurred at about 19:30h and involved a motor car bearing registration number PAC 4964, owned and driven by a 31-year-old resident of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Police stated that the

motor car was proceeding along Broad Street, in the vicinity of High Street at a fast rate while McKenzie was riding along the same street.

The driver told investigators that he was driving between 60-70 kmph when he observed McKenzie riding on the roadway, but applied brakes and swerved to avoid a collision. Instead, the right-side front of his motor car collided with the now dead man.

As a result of the collision, McKenzie was flung

into the air. He landed on the front windscreen of the motor car, and then onto the road surface where he received injuries about his body.

The injured man was picked up in an unconscious condition by the driver and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His body is at the GPHC's mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination. The driver of the motor car was arrested and he is assisting with investigations.

Rose Hall Estate to reopen in mid-September – GuySuCo –

as Berbice estates surpass production targets

Final adjustments are being made to the Rose Hall Sugar Estate in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), as it will be making a comeback by mid-September to recommence sugar production.

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on Saturday made the announcement, stating, “Additionally, all hands are on deck to complete the final adjustments to the Rose Hall factory as the corporation prepares to commence grinding of sugar in mid-September 2023.”

The Government’s efforts to reopen the Rose Hall Estate saw a whopping $1.1 billion

being expended this year to have the facility up and running. A summary of the major works included both civil and structural interventions – including rehabilitation of the cane gantry, pre-milling, milling, boiler and process house roofing. There was also the replacement of a vacuum pan, condenser structures, a chimney, and servicing of all equipment.

The Rose Hall facility is one of four estates that was closed by the APNU/AFC coalition after it took office. Back in 2016, the former Government closed the Wales Estate, and the following year, shut down the Enmore,

Rose Hall, and Skeldon Estates, putting over 7000 sugar workers on the breadline. The downsizing of the sugar industry resulted in only the Uitvlugt, Blairmont, and Albion Estates in operation. After taking office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had announced in the Emergency Budget presented in September 2020, that some $5 billion would be injected into the sugar industry for the phased reopening of the closed estates. Since then, sizeable allocations have been made to return the sector to its former glory.

GuySuCo was allocated a further $2 billion in Budget 2021 by the PPP/C Government for capital works to be undertaken at the various estates to help in the turnaround of the sugar industry. Then last year, GuySuCo received $1 billion in supplementary funds from the Government.

Production

Also on Saturday, GuySuCo revealed that the Albion/Port Mourant Estate and Blairmont Estate have leveraged the good weather conditions over the last seven days to surpass their weekly sugar production target for the second crop of 2023.

Having surpassed the first crop production target earlier this year, the second crop target is expected to push the annual production over 60,000 metric tonnes. The Berbice Grinding Estates ended the week with a production increase of 12 percent.

According to GuySuCo, it is reassuring that the respective teams on the estates have harnessed a number of strategies to boost the results and potential to turn around the sugar industry. They have been utilising new equipment bought by the Guyana Government since December 2020.

“These operational interventions, coupled with good weather played a major role in allowing the two estates to surpass their weekly target.

This good news will boost the income from the members of the sugar fraternity in Berbice as all the workers at those estates will secure additional remuneration with the weekly performance incentive.”

Estate Manager Yudhisthira Mana at Albion/ Port Mourant operations underscored that the achievement was possible due to the better turnout of workers. The cane quality has also been better when compared to 2022 crops.

The estate team is continuing its visits to the villages to keep workers and their families updated on the opportunities in the industry. One such visit was conducted recently in the villages of Manchester, Lancaster and Liverpool with the workers’ union.

Qualified workers, who operated 80 per cent or more days for that week will benefit from another weekly production incentive scheme, which allows tax-free incentives when an estate achieves its weekly production target.

Urging all grinding estates to strive towards achieving the weekly production incentive, GuySuCo added, “The Executive Management also implores workers to remain focused and committed to consistently achieving their weekly targets, as every effort is being made to support the efforts collectively to exploit the opportunity with the better weather during this period.

GuySuCo was allocated $4 billion in the 2023 budget to begin construction of the Albion Sugar Packaging Plant and to expand the capacity of the Blairmont Packaging Plant among other significant undertakings, which will increase the value-added capacity of the sugar company. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has invested more than $10 billion in the plant and equipment, rehabilitated cane fields at all factory locations, and fostered private-sector partnerships to increase land under cultivation in the sugar industry. (G-12)

Guyana taking measures to address over 280 suspected cases of hepatitis C

- 35 confirmed cases on road to recovery

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, which may lead to severe disease and liver cancer.

As such, Guyana joins the global community in this fight to raise awareness about the impact of hepatitis and reaffirm its commitment to combat this silent killer under the theme: “One Life, One Liver – Scale up Access to Diagnosis and Treatment to Save Lives”.

This year's campaign emphasises the urgency of addressing hepatitis as a public health priority and the time to scale up access to testing and treatment.

Hepatitis is a group of viral infections that affect the liver, causing inflammation and potentially leading to severe liver diseases, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. The most common types are Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with distinct transmission routes and health implications.

It is estimated that over 400 million people worldwide are living with hepatitis, with millions more unaware of their infection status. According to the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), there are more than 350 million peo -

ple still living with this life-threatening disease.

PAHO estimates that every 30 seconds someone loses their life to Hepatitis B or C, making testing crucial. The WHO estimates that 5.4 million people live with Hepatitis B and 4.8 million living with chronic Hepatitis C in the Region of the Americas.

As part of the Government of Guyana’s effort and commitment to combat hepatitis, the Health Ministry recently launched the National Hepatitis Clinic at the National Care and Treatment Centre, in Georgetown.

The clinic operates on Wednesdays and offers specialised care and treatment for individuals living with hepatitis. This facility provides a crucial platform for early detection, treatment, and support for patients, helping to improve

the quality of life and reduce the burden of hepatitis on the nation.

Mid-last year, the Health Ministry, with support from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) launched its first National Hepatitis B & C Testing and Treatment Guidelines, a guiding tool that governs the management and treatment protocol of hepatitis.

Guyana has taken proactive measures to address the backlog of over 280 suspected cases of Hepatitis C. With a focused effort on testing, diagnosis, and treatment, over 35 confirmed positive cases have already commenced their journey towards recovery.

This successful initiative demonstrates Guyana's dedication to leaving no one behind in the fight against hepatitis.

The MoH has managed to expand its testing and ef-

fective treatment services to all ten administrative regions. Regional visits to screen individuals and provide essential treatments at various hospitals are conducted every quarter. This strategic approach brings healthcare services closer to the people and strengthens the health system's capacity to tackle hepatitis effectively.

Furthermore, Guyana has integrated regular testing for Hepatitis B and C at all Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) sites throughout the country. This approach empowers individuals to be proactive about their health, ensuring early diagnosis and prompt access to treatment if necessary.

As Guyana observes

World Hepatitis Day 2023, the MOH remains committed to the global call for action in eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. With the launch of the National Hepatitis Clinic, regional outreach efforts, and widespread testing at VCT sites, Guyana is paving the way for improved health outcomes and a brighter future for all.

Reg 7 youths benefit from Youth Empowerment Forum

Some 70 young people residing in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), including the riverine communities, recently participated in a Youth Empowerment Forum hosted by the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Gender Affairs Bureau and the Regional

Gender Affairs Committee.

This forum forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to reverse and eliminate the persistent gender stereotyping, negative cultural attitudes, and other practices which discriminate against men and women.

It also seeks to resocialize adolescent males and females away from the societal notions and stereotypical views on expressions and performance of masculinity and femininity and encourages them to understand the importance of shared roles.

As such, topics discussed during the forum included youth and masculinity, youth and violence, fostering better relationships among peers, mental health and bullying, and anger management and conflict resolution.

This informative exercise was facilitated by staff of the Gender Affairs Bureau, Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA), and the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit.

The Human Services Ministry, through its different units, continues to empower youths and Guyanese at large in awareness campaigns and informational activities to better equip them with the ability to tackle gender discrimination and other issues.

Last year, the Ministry carried out a series of activities to commemorate the 16 days of activism to end gender-based violence, aimed towards supporting victims of domestic violence and urging persons to report instances of violence when they are made aware.

Part of those efforts included not only engaging members of the Ministry’s teams from the CPA, Gender Affairs Bureau and Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit but also officers of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

To ease the process of sharing experiences of violence, the Ministry also has a toll-free hotline number, 914, on which persons can report instances of abuse or violence.

Take advantage of “Breeze Pass” to ease congestion at DHB – GM urges motorists

on stream

Commuters utilising the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) have been encouraged to sign up for Breeze Pass, which will not only reduce congestion leading to the crossing but also prepare them for the new infrastructure that will come on-stream.

General Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Wayne Watson on Friday told Guyana Times that many persons are now utilising the service, owing to the advantage of having a separate lane during peak hours. It is also easier, to have a cashless form of payment that takes just seconds.

“When it was first initiated, there was some bit

of resistance. But recently, we would have seen an increase. I rather suspect it was a result of us making one lane accessible between certain hours. What will happen is that once you

are a Breeze Pass commuter, there is a special lane during peak hour traffic. We’re using this as a promotion to encourage all persons traversing the bridge to utilise this service,” Watson disclosed.

Breeze Pass allows for a continuous flow, especially on the eastern corridor, which is prone to traffic buildup. While some persons are still paying with cash, he urged them to make a switch, given the inevitability of such when the new Demerara River bridge is completed. Then, paying with cash will become a thing of the past as the country develops and embeds technological additions to daily services.

The GM underscored, “We will still have some

Amelia’s Ward Phase 4 allottees identify lands

Some 50 residents, who were allocated middle-income house lots in Amelia’s Ward Phase Four in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), were on Thursday given access to their lands during a lot identification exercise.

This is the second batch of persons to be granted the opportunity to move forward with the construction of their homes, with the first 60 residents gaining access to their lands in April.

Overall, the scheme has 400 house lots.

The first phase of distribution in Region 10 was done in April, benefitting 55 residents through a programme that was also rolled out in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The CH&PA spent the last

two years clearing the lands that were initially occupied by squatters, and conducting much-needed infrastructure works to continually grant allottees access.

Since April’s exercise, these works have progressed significantly, with the access roads now being brought to the crusher run level.

Thursday’s exercise was led by Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry Susan Rodrigues and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing

and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves.

Minister Rodrigues stated that as works continue, more allottees will receive land access while adding that the incorporation of green spaces and health centres in the area’s design form part of the Government’s vision for a holistic and sustainable community.

Subsidy Programme

Meanwhile, in another measure to ensure the ease of homeownership, another set of residents in that region received vouchers under the Steel and Cement Housing Subsidy Programme.

After recognising that several house lots following their allocation were left empty due to their owners being unable to start building right away, the Government established this subsidy programme to aid the residents in starting the construction process whereby they are provided essential building materials.

In addition to this distribution at the Christianburg Wismar Secondary School in Linden, Minister Rodrigues and CH&PA’s Greaves also took the opportunity to address the concerns of residents.

persons who believe in just paying the dollar or they’re not technologically savvy or there is some resistance. But I just want to ensure that persons are aware that one must focus on the future and when the new riv-

er bridge comes into reality, the development, social activity, and business and commerce will grow exponentially.

“A person paying the toll with $5000 and waiting for change is not something

that we would want to envision the end result of that. My encouragement to commuters is to start training yourself so that when the new bridge comes into functionality, you will already be aware of the tolling system that will be utilised by developed countries around the world. It will be something that you will readily embrace.”

Breeze Pass was introduced last year in collaboration with Mobile Money Guyana (MMG).

Persons can visit dhbcportal.ssi.gy to sign up for this service. Once an application is confirmed, an RFID tag will be placed on the vehicle. The toll fee will then be withdrawn from the MMG account when the vehicle transits the bridge.

As the Public Works Ministry continues to rehabilitate roads in Beterverwagting along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), subject Minister Juan Edghill on Thursday urged residents to respect the curing time needed before the projects’ completion.

The roads, identified earlier by residents for rehabilitation, are being reconstructed into rigid pavement concrete roads.

The curing process, to allow for the setting of concrete, typically requires a specific period without the interference of road use.

“We want to appeal to all residents and users, while [the road] is under construction, to understand that every time you break through the barricade and drive on the road before it is completed or cured, you're incurring damages, it is going to incur costs to the contractor and it's going to also delay the project,”

Edghill said.

“There must be a curing period of 14 days. Sometimes we try to compromise depending on the weight of the vehicles traversing, to seven days,” Edghill added.

Minister Edghill explained that despite the placement of road barriers and issuance of several notices since July 9 to residents barring their road use, they were continually ignored.

“I’m sufficiently satisfied that notices and information were shared with all of the residents in the affected areas in good enough time,” Edghill said. “We should not be hav-

tive routes of travel were facilitated.

As road projects continue countrywide, Minister Edghill used the opportunity to further appeal to all affected residents to adhere to instructions given thus reminding them of the long-term benefits that will ensue.

“We want to execute the projects. We want to bring the benefits to the people that [require them]. But we just can't have people in a reckless, unreasonable way damage work, remove barricades and use the structures,” Edghill said.

“We want to ask people to desist from doing that. And

ing issues here especially when you are notified ahead of time that we'll be pouring concrete and the road will not be able to be used for a number of days.”

He noted that in the interim, residents were advised to park elsewhere and alterna-

for those of you in other communities, let's learn from the [Beterverwagting] experience and understand once we're doing concrete roads in communities, we have to be patient until we get them done,” Edghill added.

- says it will prepare persons for when new bridge comes

- more residents benefit from steel & cement subsidy

BV residents warned about driving on newly-built roads before curing process ends - damages will incur costs to contractors, delays – Min Edghill

SBM Offshore Guyana launches STEM Scholarship

Programme for Indigenous women

- 2 Indigenous women to benefit from full financial support for 2023/2024 at UG

SBM Offshore Guyana has launched a scholarship programme that is geared towards providing Indigenous women with an opportunity to pursue studies in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the University of Guyana.

This was announced at the launch of the company’s Scholarship Programme for Indigenous Women in STEM on July 19, 2023, and is aligned with its support for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal Four—Quality Education, and Goal 10, Reduced Inequality.

SBM Offshore Guyana’s General Manager, Martin Cheong during the launch stated that the company is committed to fostering the

development of the country’s young people so that they can benefit from the oil and gas industry.

“Our wish is that the beneficiaries of this programme receive a quality education through the University of Guyana, giving them equal opportunity to contribute to the nation’s workforce and benefit from the oil and gas industry. We believe that nurturing the skills and talents of Guyanese youth will transform the country and encourage them to explore careers in this industry.”

In addition, Sustainability and Social Impact Programme Development Officer, Gwenetta Fordyce expressed that the aim of the scholarship is to empower Indigenous women with

the knowledge, skills and academic prowess to give back to their communities.

“Through this scholarship programme, Indigenous women will acquire an undergraduate degree, resulting in transformative leadership, improved livelihoods, diversified income generation and job creation.”

Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Dr Paloma Mohamed-Martin related, “I wish to immediately applaud SBM [Offshore Guyana] for the speed at which they actually acted upon their idea.

It is remarkable that just a few months ago this year,

they had this conversation with us, and today we are actually launching this.”

Further, Deputy Chief Education Officer with responsibility for Amerindian and Hinterland Development, Marti De Souza lauded the company’s commitment to the development of Guyanese while noting that “This scholarship programme will be playing a great role in the development of Guyana’s human resources, more so, in the development of our Indigenous women and girls.”

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be Guyanese Indigenous women now entering the University of Guyana, or a second-year continuing student majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics with a Grade Point Average of 3.2 and above. Applications can be submitted at https://womensstemscholarship.sbm. gy/. Following submissions, two candidates will be selected based on the criteria outlined in the portal. The deadline for applications is August 20, at 23:59h.

The scholarship programme is one of several programmes offered by SBM Offshore Guyana aimed at developing the country’s human resources. Other capacity-building programmes undertaken by the company include the Graduate Engineers’ Programme and Trainee Technician Programme. 06:00 (Sign on) Jewanram Rel. Hour

10:30 Cartoons

Sunday, July 30, 2023

11:00 David Persaud Religious Program

11:30 Blippi Educational

12:00 Wheel of Fortune

12:30 Movie - How to Find Forever (2022)

14:00 Movie - Savannah (2013)

16:00 Explained

16:15 Access Exxon Ep. 29

16:30 Payless Power Hour

17:30 The Healing Touch

18:00 Maths is Fun

18:30 Week-in-Review

19:00 Lucifer S4 E7

20:00 Arrow S4 E22

21:00 Riverdale S4 E16

22:00 Unsolved Mysteries

23:00 The Office S3 E22

23:30 Grace & Frankie S7 E6

00:00 Sign off

Upsets galore as GBA World Badminton Day tournament continues

Day 2 of the Guyana Badminton Association’s (GBA’s) World Badminton Day A, B, & C Division Men’s and Women’s Singles Tournament saw a lot of surprises and upsets, but overall, it was a great show for badminton enthusiasts and persons who were now seeing the game for the first time.

In the Men’s A- Division, Marlon Chung overcame Chet Bowling 21-14, 16-10, Bowling retired. Meanwhile, Akili Haynes defeated Colin Bowry 21-6, 21-6, Avinash Odit defeated Viraj singh 21-18, 21-19 and Tyrese Jeffrey overcame Jaurel Hendricks 21-9, 21-6.

In the semifinals, Akili Haynes overcame Marlon Chung 21-12, 21-10, while Tyrese Jeffrey defeated Avinash Odit 22-20, 13-21, 21-16.

Over in the Women’s ADivision, Shivannie Persaud got the better of Asiyah Eastman 21-15, 21-8. The category’s semifinals saw Priyanna Ramdhani overpowering Alima Eastman 21-4, 21-4. While three- set action in the other semifinal resulted in a victory for Shivannie Persaud against Priyanka Shivnauth 21-15, 17-21, 21-8.

In the B- Division, 1. Asiyah Eastman and Leshaunte Berkley faced off in the Semifinals, which Eastman won 21-17, 21-8. The other semifinal resulted in a win for Alima Eastman against Neveah Eastman 21-14, 21-14.

Meanwhile, the all-Eastman final was won by Alima Eastman, who defeated Asiya Eastman 21-8, 21-10.

The Men’s category saw Colin Bowry overcoming Nkosi

Beaton 21-16, 23-21, while Viraj Singh defeated Frank Waddell 21-5, 21-5 and Jahiem Carmichael overcame Jaurel Hendricks 21-18, 14-21, 2321. The action continued with Joanathan Debidin getting the better of Lennox Morrison 2116, 21-15.

In the semifinals, Colin Bowry and Viraj Singh were victors, defeating Jonathan Debidin 15-21, 21-16, 21-16 and Jahiem Carmichael 21-17, 2115, respectively.

In the Men’s C- Division, Raah Russell defeated Avinash Ramnarine 21-6, 21-7. Jonathan Robinson defeated Amaan Khan 21-11, 21-9. Lennox Morrison overcame Jonathan Ferreira 21-8, 21-14. Renako Bender overcame Nikolas Pollard 2112, 24-22 while Haresh Persaud overpowered Mohamed Farouk

21-18, 22-20. Jedidiah Uwagboe defeated Omkar Persaud 21-10, 21-14. Jedidiah Uwagboe defeated Jonathan Robinson 21-10, 21-14. Raah Russell got the better of Renako Bender 21-5, 217, while Frank Waddell defeated Lennox Morrison 21-9, 21-15. In addition, Jonathan Debidin overcame Haresh Persaud 21-18, 2114.

In the semifinals, Frank Waddell overcame Jedidah Uwagboe 15-21, 21-18, 21-18.

The Women’s C-Division semifinals saw Gianna Ramnarine overpowering Aaliyah Bacchus 21-12, 2115 in the other semifinal. The

grand final in that category saw Gabrielle Felix getting the better of Gianna Ramnarine 21-9, 21-14.

The Guyana Badminton Association would like to thank Total Solutions for being the sponsor for the second year now

the inception of World Badminton Day. The tournament was set to conclude on Saturday night.

Associations receive equipment as GFF grassroots programme launched

GFF for organising “another wonderful initiative.”

“This initiative is geared at strengthening…grassroots development. Without the root, the tree will eventually die; and so it’s important to cultivate the culture of football into our children, so that we can have…continuous development.”

East Bank Football Association (EBFA) President

Orein Angoy said, “When it comes to grassroots, I always tell all the coaches on the East Bank: ‘If we lose the grassroots, we eventually lose footballers.’ We need the grassroots to replace the older ones.”

He added: “I think it is a great initiative, and I would like to thank them for coming on board with us and supporting the East Bank when it comes to football and grass- roots.”

Guyana Football Federation (GFF)

President Wayne Forde on Friday spearheaded the launch of the much- anticipated Summer Grassroots Programme with the distribution of key equipment to the nine Regional Associations through the Member Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP).

At a simple ceremony held on July 28th at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), President Forde stressed that the Federation’s ultimate goal is to increase the number of players countrywide by ensuring young boys and girls have access to training programmes throughout the year.

“This is important in the mandate of the Guyana Football Federation with the ultimate aim to increase the population of our players. History has taught us that when a child is introduced to football at a very tender age, they go on to love that game and to serve the game. We want to see more young boys and more young girls playing football across this country,”

he said.

He added: “Through our M-FAP programme, you are now receiving unprecedented support from all the programmes that you need to execute in your respective jurisdictions.”

The GFF’s Grassroots Summer Programme will kick off in August in Bartica, Linden, Berbice, Essequibo and Georgetown. President Forde will be visiting various regions over the four-week period.

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph added that the grassroots sessions will be fun, but young players will also learn about the fundamentals of the game.

“The grassroots programme represents the foundation of everything we do. We cannot produce senior national team players if we are not focused on having structured grassroots sessions.”

He also encouraged parents to register their children for sessions which will focus on agility, balance and coordination.

Bartica Football Association (BFA) President Alden Marslowe thanked the

Gold medals for boxing duo at OECS Championships

Guyana’s unrivalled dominance in boxing in the Englishspeaking Caribbean continued on Friday evening when Joshua Thambarran and Shakquian James captured gold medals in the respective 57kg junior and 67kg youth divisions at the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St. Lucia.

Featherweight Thambarran outboxed

Jaquan Grant of Barbados to win via unanimous decision, while Welterweight Shakquian James stopped Barbadian Nathan Walcott at 1:42 in the second round.

Probed on the performance of his charges, head coach Clifton Moore, during a brief comment, said, “Exceptional! They both weighed in far below the weight of their respective opponents. Thambarran had a 6.3kg disadvantage, and James had a 5.6kg disadvantage. I advised them to avoid too many clinches by using lots of lateral movements, and to concentrate on more straight punches.

Moore, who hails from the Vergenoegen gym in Region #3, affirmed that he is confident in a positive display from Guyana’s sol-

Tianna who is uled to the got to be tive. This is her first outing, like Thambarran, and if he

could have pulled it off in such a spectacular manner, so can she.”

Moore further posited that tournaments of this nature engineer and equip the pugilists with the necessary experience required to challenge fighters at the higher strata. He noted, “It’s very important. These tournaments would prepare them for a higher level of competition, and make them formidable replacements for the senior boxers when the time for the changing of the guard comes along.”

Meanwhile, Guyana Boxing Association President Steve Ninvalle said, “Performance is em-

pirical; that is unquestionable, and it is often the best response and output in the

confirmation of developmental policies. The ongoing OECS Championship is once again a testament to, and confirmation of, Guyana’s continued dominance within the Englishspeaking Caribbean in the sport of boxing.”

He added, “The GBA will continue its unrelenting mantra and drive in the development of its most cherished and important department, which is the nursery, as we believe that international tournaments, especially in the Caribbean community, are the ideal avenue and platform for exposure and development.”

Top horses confirmed for exciting meet at Port Mourant today

Guyana Cup winner Alado, Wild Texas Tom, Ice Kreem Sundae, Queen Domina, Bossalina and Memories are the horses listed to contest the feature event of the Port Mourant Turf Club race meet today Sunday, July 30.

The feature event, the Shivtahal Cup, will be run over a one-mile distance for a winner’s purse of $2M. The event is open to all horses. This will be the first time that Alado would be racing at the PMTC venue.

The L Class race will be contested by the likes of Massapequa Dr, Rock Page Harbor, Kamaka King, Trump, Bolt and Nut, Lords Gift, Cash and Carry, Perfect Dream and Princess Samiah. The Banks Derby will be contested by Top Gun, Tizway, Renaissance Man, Rachel, Red Ruby, and Gt Boss.

The J Class race will be contested by Storm

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Caption: Evin Lewis and Rashid Khan were teammates at St Kitts & Nevis Patriots last season

Alado is all ready to light up Port Mourant today

Town, Eldorado Queen, Plus Return, Republican Danstar, Amazing Grace, Dr Switch and War time.

The race for threeyear-old Guyana-bred maiden horses will be contested by Legacy, Princess Anesha, Royal Flight, Rags to Riches, Shakethebank, Lasha Pharoah, Little Girl, She’s a Star, Magic Star, Secret Jet, Halo, Party Hard, and Little Africa.

The G Class race will be contested by American Traveller, Sexy Eyes, Princess Steffani, Regal Intention and Coup D’Etat.

Initially, eight races were on the cards, but according to organizers, seven races are confirmed. Some $10M in cash and

prizes will be up for grabs. Races will be run under the updated classification. Races to be run under guidance of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority rules. The Club reserves the right to cancel or reframe any race. Five horses have to start before the third-place prize is paid, and seven horses must start before the fourth-place prize is paid. Horses can be entered by contacting Gingo on 618-7278, Dennis on 640-3996, Fazal on 6111141, or Shazeena on 3220789/0369. Depending on the entries, the Club would be open to framing additional races.

Kishan became the first of Shepherd’s twin strikes, re-attempting the cut that had fetched him a four earlier in the over - only this time for Alick Athanaze to pouch a stunning take at backward point. Axar Patel, who got a batting promotion at no. 4, was in and out in a jiffy - gloving a short ball to the keeper.

Pandya and Sanju Samson managed to stall West Indies’ march but not for long as Jayden Seales returned to send Pandya packing cheaply off another short one. On the very next ball, Yannic Cariah got Samson outside-edging to the ‘keeper, leaving India reeling at 113/5 as rain arrived to halt the proceedings for the next 45 minutes.

That, however, failed to rob West Indies of the momentum as the wicket pro-

cession continued on the other side. Shepherd struck with yet another bouncer, and this time Jadeja top-edged his pull to give a comfortable catch to the right of deep backward square. Three balls later, Athanaze took another sharp catch at backward point to end Suryakumar’s cameo after a run-a-ball 24.

Thakur’s fight took India past the 150-run mark but his stay was short-lived. Joseph struck twice in three ballsseparated by a 15-rain break - to open his account late in the day, and Motie wrapped up the proceedings with one ball to spare in the 41st over. Incidentally, this was the 29th time India had been bowled out for under 200 by West Indies - the most by an opponent, surpassing 28 by Pakistan. (cricbuzz)

8 to represent Guyana at Youth Commonwealth Games

Athletics and Swimming will be the two sport disciplines seeing competition from Guyanese junior athletes, when the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games commences next Friday, August 4th in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Guyanese contingent will comprise 8 athletes and 5 officials. For the athletics team, South American U20 record holder and CARIFTA

Champion Tianna Springer (400M), CARIFTA medalists Attoya Harvey (800M, 1500M), Javon Roberts (800M, 1500M), Narissa McPherson (400M, 800M) and Malachi Austin (200M, 400M) will compete under the watchful eye of Coach Julian Edmonds.

For swimming, Ariel Rodrigues (50M Backstroke, 200M Freestyle, 50M Butterfly, 100M freestyle, 50M freestyle), Shareefah Lewis (50M backstroke, 50M breaststroke, 100M freestyle, 50M freestyle), and Elliot Gonsalves (200M freestyle, 400M freestyle, 200M individual medley, 400M individual medley) will hit the pool. They are accompanied by Coach Shyka Gonsalves.

The team will be accompanied Dr Victor Allen, Physiotherapist Vanessa Wickham, and Team Manager Nalini McKoy.

During a press briefing on Saturday morning at the Guyana Olympic Association’s (GOA) Liliendaal Headquarters, Coaches Julian Edmonds and Shyka Gonsalves spoke on their respective team’s preparation and expectations. “I am satisfied with the

Guyana vs Ethiopia Friendly…

preparation. As a matter of fact, all of the athletes would have competed yesterday at the Police Annual Sports Championship, just sharpening up for their races,” Edmonds noted.

The renowned athletics Coach further stated, “At the last games, apart from Boxing getting a silver medal, we would have also had two finalists in the 100M in Kenisha Phillips and Onasha Rogers. So, we’re expecting to go a step

Majority locals in 18-man squad

better. As I said, we would’ve learned and we would’ve had 4 years to prepare. Athletics is on the rise in Guyana, and the athletes have been developing steadily.” Coach Gonsalves said about the Swimming team, “Their training has been going well. As I said, they’re different types of swimmers, so where the girls have been sprinting shorter distances, Elliot would have been sprinting longer distances. So,

they’ve been working hard, training and all-round having fun with what they do.

“We expect them to try their best, do extremely well, and have fun all at the same time,” the Swim Coach added.

Meanwhile, GOA

Treasurer Garfield Wiltshire explained why Guyana will be competing in only 2 of the 7 sport disciplines at the Youth Games.

“As indicated, there were 7 sports. The sports were swim-

ming, athletics, beach volleyball, fast netball, road cycling, track cycling, Rugby 7s and triathlon. You can see from those sports athletics and swimming are the sports we would’ve been able to best compete in. We did apply to see if we could be accommodated in Rugby, as a team sport, but that application was not accepted because they would’ve gone on rankings of Rugby teams around the Commonwealth,” Wiltshire informed.

GOA President Godfrey Munroe also had some words of encouragement for the athletes, stating, “These games are multidisciplinary games and it allows you as young athletes to start venturing into the Olympic cycle. I know some of you have had experience, but as most of the coaches alluded to, it’s an opportunity to shine and measure yourself against the best athletes in the world. And also compete and do well.”

The Commonwealth Youth Games ae set to conclude on Friday, August 11th. Additionally, Tianna Springer and Elliot Gonsalves will be Guyana’s flagbearers at the Games. (Jemima Holmes)

Corporate Village at Kares One Guyana T10 Blast to promote brand awareness

Select companies who have come on board the Kares One Guyana T10 Tape Ball Blast are expected to benefit from significant brand awareness throughout the finals, today July 30th, at the Everest Cricket Club.

With assistance from Star Rentals, the organiser, – FL Sport – has created a Corporate Expo in the parking lot of Everest to give the thousands set to descend on Everest an opportunity to be edified on what the corporate community has to offer.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Friday evening announced an 18-member squad that will constitute Guyana’s Senior Men’s National Football team, for a historic international friendly match against Ethiopia later this week.

The Golden Jaguars will take on Ethiopia on Wednesday, August 2nd at the Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, United States; in what will be the first time Guyana comes up against an African team.

The Golden Jaguars Squad, comprising 12 locals and 6 overseas-based players, reads: Goal keepers Akel Clarke and Joshua Narine; Defenders Jeremy Garrett, Curtez Kellman, Reiss Greenidge, Marcus Wilson, Leo Lovell, Raushan Ritch; Midfielders Daniel Wilson, Darren Niles, Ryan Hackett, Kelsey Benjamin, Yohance Douglas, Bevan Baker, Kyle Reid and Forwards, Jamal Pereira, Nicholas McArthur and Deon Moore.

Meanwhile, in an exclusive chat with <<Guyana Times Sport,>> Golden Jaguars Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz broke down the 18-man squad, divulging the rationale behind its composition.

“We don’t have to do much work on fitness because the

guys are fresh out of a season. For this game, we’re going to use more of the local-based players, especially those who were in the squad and didn’t get a lot of playing time in the Gold Cup,” Shabazz revealed.

The Head Coach added, “So, the 18-man squad is really a mixture but it’s one where we’re really going to use the opportunity to reward the players who are playing in the KFC Elite League and give them a taste of international competition.”

Quizzed about the majority of the squad being local players and whether or not this is owing to the match being ‘just a friendly’, Shabazz responded in the negative, highlighting that the opportunity was taken to reward players who were outstanding in the recently concluded Elite League and get a better look at their skills ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League.

“Well, we gotta widen the pool. For me, it’s never about who local or who overseas; it’s always about the standard that we bring, you know, and it’s more about professional and amateur. The argument that people make on Facebook is nonsense. I don’t hear them who support Manchester City or

Manchester United saying more player who born in Manchester should play for City or United,” the Golden Jaguars Head Coach began.

“It is a nonsensical argument. Guyana is for Guyanese, whether you born home or abroad. Why our Guyanese are only accepting who born overseas when they could send a barrel, or Western Union or MoneyGram? No. We’ve got to open our minds more.”

Shabazz further stated, “For us, it’s about opportunities. It’s a friendly match, so it gives us opportunities to widen the pool of local players, but still there are two overseas-based players that we want to see more of, and they got the opportunity to travel from their club. So really, going into the Nations League in September, it gives us the opportunity to get a wider view.”

Kickoff for the friendly match is set for 19:00hrs.

(Jemima Holmes)

Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Guyana Tourism Authority, ANSA Motors Guyana, Continental Transport Inc., Gafoors, and Premier Insurance are just some companies set to be on show.

“We, as an organizing group, wanted to give the corporate community an added benefit of being on board, and

Engineering Inc; Banks DIH, through their GT Beer Brand; Mohamed’s Enterprise, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Assuria Insurance, E-Net; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Cricket Zone USA; First Change Builders, Impressions, Jacob’s Jewellery, Beacon Café, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Zeus Enterprise, Hits and Jams Entertainment, Montra

free rides in the child-friendly zone, including a bouncy castle. In partnership with sponsor Banks DIH Limited, free ice cream, soda, snacks, and water for the young will be provided.

with the massive gathering at Everest, it is a chance to further market products”, CoDirector John Ramsingh expressed. Other corporate support has come from Kares

Restaurant and Lounge, and Trophy Stall.

Apart from the corporate community, families are expected to benefit, as the organisers promised to set up a designated area, the Kids Zone. The children will enjoy

Additionally, spectators can win instant prizes from sponsors by participating in a novelty cricket-related event. The organizers promise high-quality and competitive cricket from the 32 teams in the knockout ten-overs-perside tournament, while there will be live streaming for the world to see the product. The grand prize is $1M, while many individual prizes are available.

Adisciplined bowling effort led by threefers from Romario Shepherd and Gudakesh Motie, backed by some excellent catching, and a patient Shai Hope half-century helped West Indies draw level in the three-match ODI series with a convincing six-wicket win in rainy Barbados on Saturday (July 29). This was West Indies first ODI win against India in last ten attempts.

Inserting India in, who had rested Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the hosts made a stunning comeback with the ball to roll them out for 181 inside 41 despite a solid 90run opening stand driven by Ishan Kishan’s second succes sive half-century of the series. On a slow surface that offered both turn and extra bounce, West Indies overhauled the sub-par target with more than 13 overs to spare, on the back of a steady 91* stand between Hope (63*) and Keacy Carty (48*) and a contrasting open ing partnership worth 53.

Kyle Mayers was off the blocks quickly, driving and flicking India’s new-ball pair of Hardik Pandya and Mukesh Kumar. He even dis patched the Indian stand-in

captain into the stands before Brandon King joined in, going past 1000 ODI runs with consecutive boundaries off Umran Malik. Mayers then welcomed

leg to bring up the fifty part nership on the first ball of the ninth over, but fell attempting a repeat of the same one ball later. In the

ish flick for six over fine

SCOREBOARD

India (50 ovs maximum)

Ishan Kishan †c Athanaze

b Shepherd 55

Shubman Gill c Joseph b Motie 34

Sanju Samson c King b Cariah 9

Axar Patel c †Hope b Shepherd 1

Hardik Pandya (c)c King b Seales 7

Suryakumar Yadav c

Athanaze b Motie 24

Ravindra Jadeja c Cariah

b Shepherd 10

Shardul Thakur lbw b Joseph 16

Kuldeep Yadav not out 8

Umran Malik c Carty b Joseph 0

Mukesh Kumar c Hetmyer b Motie 6

Extras (lb 2, w 9) 11

TOTAL 40.5 Ov (RR: 4.43) 181

Fall of wickets: 1-90 (Shubman Gill, 16.5 ov), 2-95 (Ishan Kishan, 17.3 ov), 3-97 (Axar Patel, 19.2 ov), 4-113

(Hardik Pandya, 23.6 ov), 5-113

(Sanju Samson, 24.1 ov), 6-146

(Ravindra Jadeja, 31.3 ov), 7-148

(Suryakumar Yadav, 32.1 ov), 8-167

(Shardul Thakur, 37.2 ov), 9-167

(Umran Malik, 37.4 ov), 10-181

(Mukesh Kumar, 40.5 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Kyle Mayers 5-0-18-0

Jayden Seales 6-0-28-1

Alzarri Joseph 7-0-35-2

Gudakesh Motie 9.5-0-36-3

Romario Shepherd 8-1-37-3

Yannic Cariah 5-0-25-1

West Indies (T: 182 runs from 50 ovs)

Brandon King lbw b Thakur 15

Kyle Mayers c Umran

Malik b Thakur 36

Alick Athanaze c †

Ishan Kishan b Thakur 6

Shai Hope (c)†not out 63

Shimron Hetmyer

b Kuldeep Yadav 9

Keacy Carty not out 48

Extras (w 5) 5

TOTAL 36.4 Ov (RR: 4.96) 182/4

Fall of wickets: 1-53

(Kyle Mayers, 8.2 ov), 2-54

(Brandon King, 8.4 ov), 3-72

(Alick Athanaze, 12.2 ov), 4-91

(Shimron Hetmyer, 16.6 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Hardik Pandya 6.4-0-38-0 Mukesh Kumar

trapped King LBW to reduce West Indies to 54/2.

Hope’s brisk start - including a six to get off the mark - was the only reason West Indies had managed to move on a quickly but Thakur

struck again. A well-directed bouncer took Alick Athanaze completely by surprise, and Kishan had plenty of time to settle under the top-edge.

The captain however ensured West Indies didn’t waste a perfect start like the tourists. Even though he lost Shimron Hetmyer to a Kuldeep Yadav googly soon after, Hope kept the scoreboard ticking just enough to keep them ahead of

the DLS par score given the overcast conditions. And once Carty got his eye in, the pair did well to rotate strike effectively and inch closer to the target.

Hope brought up his fifty in 70 balls, also taking his team past the 150-run mark in the process. Despite not exactly dealing in boundaries until the very end, the pair took control of the chase and made sure West Indies scaled the

target comfortably, with no further hiccups.

India had decided for more experimentation ahead of the home World Cup, but it didn’t really click barring the efforts of the new-look opening pair. The humid, overcast conditions from the onset offered early swing and Kishan took his time settling in. Shubman

Gill (34) meanwhile kept the scoreboard ticking early on, displaying his full range of shots to collect some early boundaries. The southpaw survived a couple of close calls in early 20s, but went on to outrace Gill to a 51-ball half-century - his second in as many games. However, just as the pair inched closer to the century stand, Motie broke through for the hosts. Gill, in his attempt to take on the spinner, danced down the track to loft a flighted delivery and holed out to the tall Joseph in the deep, triggering a dramatic collapse of 5 for 23 that India never really recovered from.

Team Mohamed’s shatters strip record with 6.403 pass at Drag Wars 2

In a heart-stopping display of power and precision, Team Mohamed’s etched their name in the annals of drag racing history with a groundbreaking 6.403 pass on Saturday at the highly anticipated Tropical Shipping Drag Wars 2 dial-in.

The previous record of 7.036s was also set by Team Mohamed’s Pro-mod Mustang, only this time it was driven by Victor Flores, also known as “Floor It”.

The momentous achievement not only set a new strip record, but also set the stage for an epic showdown on Sunday against formidable opponents: Team Daby’s Toyota Pro-mod and the

Trinidad Rail car driven by the skilled Sheldon Bissessar, who recorded impressive 6.7

the breathtaking performance of Team Mohamed’s.

The team's meticulous preparation and dedication

6.403 pass left com petitors and onlookers astonished, and solidified their status as the ones to beat.

Meanwhile, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the sheer skill and determination displayed by Team Daby’s Toyota Pro-mod and the Trinidad Rail car during their 6.7 passes. Both teams exhibited outstanding sportsmanship and a relentless drive to perform at their best, adding to the excitement and anticipation of the upcoming showdown on Sunday.

at the drag racing event was electric, as spectators and fellow racers were left in awe at

to pushing the boundaries of speed and precision were evident as they roared down the strip with unmatched feroci-

As the sun set on Saturday, it will definitely rise to a showdown on Sunday at South Dakota between these three teams.