November 14th, 2024

*The following articles were summarized using AI. The following audio was developed using a speech-synthesis model.

Some Housekeeping

Here at The Guyana Brief we do our best to keep you informed on what’s happening around you. As members not just of Guyana but of the broader world itself, the more informed we are, the more rounded we are. We’re going to stick to our usual news categories reserved for Guyana, and instead will use the title “World News” to deliver top stories from around the globe.

Fact of the day

Our solar system has an invisible boundary known as the heliopause, often described as a "wall" separating the solar system from interstellar space The heliopause is the point where the solar wind—a stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun—loses its strength and can no longer push back against the winds of particles from other stars. This boundary forms a sort of protective bubble around the solar system, shielding it from much of the high-energy cosmic radiation that exists in interstellar space.

Beyond the heliopause, the influence of the Sun’s magnetic field dwindles, and particles from outside our solar system start to dominate. The Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 spacecrafts, launched in 1977, crossed this boundary in 2012 and 2018, respectively, giving scientists their first direct data from this frontier region. Crossing into interstellar space marked a significant milestone, as these spacecrafts left the bubble of particles created by the Sun and began moving through a region where particles from other stars are predominant.

While the heliopause is often referred to as the edge of the solar system, it’s not a hard, solid boundary. Instead, it’s a fluctuating region that shifts depending on solar activity, expanding and contracting as solar winds strengthen or weaken. This "wall" plays a crucial role in cosmic shielding, protecting our solar system's planets from the vast, intense energies present in interstellar space.

World News from the BBC

Israeli Strikes in Lebanon Kill 28 Amid Rising Tensions with Hezbollah; Ceasefire Prospects Uncertain

Israeli air strikes in central Lebanon have claimed at least 28 lives, including 20 people—mostly women and children—in Joun and eight others in Baalchmay, both areas outside Hezbollah's stronghold. These strikes come amid escalating violence as Israel targets Hezbollah positions and infrastructure in response to cross-border attacks linked to the Gaza conflict. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has ruled out a ceasefire until Hezbollah is disarmed and pushed north beyond the Litani River.

The Lebanese health ministry reports that since October 2023, more than 3,200 people have died and 1.2 million have been displaced due to air raids and ground offensives. In Beirut’s Dahieh suburb, known for Hezbollah presence, Israel targeted purported command centers and weapon storage sites, leveling buildings but resulting in no reported casualties. Meanwhile, in Israel, two civilians were killed by Hezbollah rocket fire, with further attacks hitting military sites and a kindergarten playground.

Lebanese officials and Hezbollah urge a ceasefire under UN Security Council resolution 1701, which mandates Hezbollah’s disarmament south of the Litani. However, Israeli authorities maintain that past resolutions have failed to prevent Hezbollah’s rearmament, complicating the pathway to peace.

Trump Administration Prepares for Hard Right Turn as Republicans Control White House and Congress

With the presidency and both chambers of Congress under Republican control, President-elect Donald Trump is poised to advance a conservative agenda backed by Congressional leadership. On the campaign trail, Trump pledged sweeping changes, and his cabinet picks signal a sharp shift to the right. Among his selections, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth is nominated for Defense Secretary, known for his opposition to women in combat roles. Trump’s choice for Attorney General, Matt Gaetz, is equally controversial due to his loyalty and past legal scrutiny. As the transition begins, Trump’s cabinet choices reflect his ideological vision for a new direction in American governance.

World's Largest Coral Discovered in Pacific’s Depths, Offering Hope Amidst Climate Crisis

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified the largest coral ever recorded in the southwest Pacific Ocean near the Solomon Islands. Known as Pavona clavus, this massive organism spans 34 meters in width, 32 meters in length, and 5.5 meters in height, making it larger than a blue whale and potentially over 300 years old. Found by National Geographic diver Manu San Felix, this "cathedral underwater" resides in deeper waters, which may have shielded it from surface warming, allowing it to thrive.

This discovery underscores the resilience of some corals, even as global warming threatens shallow reefs. Eric Brown, a coral scientist on the research trip, described the coral's condition as a “beacon of hope.” Trevor Manemahaga, the Solomon Islands’ climate minister, stressed the importance of protecting such marine resources, noting the critical role corals play in local economies and global biodiversity. The find coincides with COP29 climate talks, where developing nations like the Solomon Islands are calling for more support to protect vital ecosystems.

Government and Politics

Manickchand Inaugurates School Libraries, Engages with Communities in Region Three

Education Minister Priya Manickchand inaugurated new libraries at Tuschen, Greenwich Park, and Parika Salem primary schools, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing educational resources. The libraries, part of the Libraries in Primary Schools Initiative, aim to foster literacy, creativity, and independent learning. Following ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Minister Manickchand held public meetings, addressing concerns on education, infrastructure, health, and safety. While some issues extended beyond her ministry’s scope, she assured residents that their concerns would be forwarded to relevant departments. The Minister underscored that quality education requires addressing broader community needs, reiterating the government’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable development.

Guyana Seeks New Investment Opportunities During Modi’s Upcoming Visit

President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that several Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) are expected to be signed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Guyana from November 19 to 21, 2024. Speaking at a UK Trade Mission event, Dr. Ali highlighted India’s success in business incubation and innovation, noting that Guyana aims to explore new investment areas and leverage Indian expertise. Modi’s visit will include bilateral talks with President Ali, co-chairing the India-CARICOM Summit, and cultural engagements such as a tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi statue. The visit signifies a deepening partnership between the two nations across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, and technical training.

President Ali Announces Expanded Services and New Minivan for Veterans

In a move to honor military veterans, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced enhanced services, including expanded medical support, facility upgrades, and a new specialized minivan for veterans with mobility challenges. The announcement came during a Veterans Day ceremony at Base Camp Ayanganna, where the President paid tribute to the sacrifices of service members. The new minivan aims to ease veterans' access to medical care and community services, while the government will also fund rehabilitation for veteran housing. President Ali presented a cheque to the Veterans Legion and emphasized the government’s commitment to veterans, stating that recognizing their service and sacrifice remains a priority for national well-being and security.

Guyana Signs Agreement for Second Powership to Deliver 75 Megawatts

To meet rising energy demands, the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) has signed a second agreement with UCC Holdings for a powership to add 75 megawatts to the national grid. The powership, to be stationed in the Demerara River, will initially provide 60 megawatts, with an additional 15 megawatts in a second phase. Senior Minister Dr. Ashni Singh highlighted that the powership, expected within a month, aligns with the government’s strategy to secure short-term energy solutions while awaiting the Gas to Energy Project, which aims to deliver 300 megawatts in the long term. This agreement marks a critical step in ensuring reliable power for Guyana’s expanding economy.

$100,000 Cash Grant for Public Servants and Pensioners by End of November

President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that public sector employees and pensioners will receive a $100,000 cash grant before the end of November. Speaking during the launch of his new “In the Seat” program, President Ali detailed the use of a new software application to streamline data collection and grant distribution, ensuring a transparent process. Community engagements are set to start soon to gather information for seamless payouts, with Region Nine prioritized. All Guyanese adults, including those abroad, are eligible for the grant if they have the proper identification and collect it in person in Guyana. The cash grant, intended to support citizens nationwide, is expected to reach a significant portion of recipients by December.

Business and Development

GPEC Launches as Guyana’s First Oil & Gas Engineering Equipment Provider

GPEC Energy Products Inc. has entered Guyana’s oil and gas market as the first local provider of engineered equipment. GPEC focuses on pipeline products, offering engineering support and maintenance. At the launch event, company representative Sash Sukhdeo emphasized collaboration and local employment. ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge applauded GPEC’s investment, calling it a model for the industry. Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat noted that GPEC’s commitment to training locals aligns with Guyana’s vision of becoming an oil and gas hub.

Stabroek Block Hits 500 Million Barrels of Oil

ExxonMobil Guyana and partners Hess and CNOOC announced reaching 500 million barrels of oil from the Stabroek block, a milestone achieved in less than five years. With a daily production averaging over 650,000 barrels from three projects—Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2, and Payara—the companies aim to exceed 1.3 million barrels per day by 2027. The oil sector has generated over USD 5.4 billion in revenues for Guyana and employs over 6,000 Guyanese, representing 70% of the workforce. ExxonMobil emphasized a long-term commitment to Guyana’s growth and prosperity.

GFF and NAMILCO Launch Seven-a-Side Women’s Football Cup

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has partnered with the National Milling Company (NAMILCO) to introduce a seven-a-side Women’s Cup, marking a significant stride in women’s football development in Guyana. Sponsored by NAMILCO’s Maid Marian Wheat Up brand, the tournament aims to create more opportunities for female athletes, broadening the company’s previous support of boys’ football to include women. GFF President Wayne Forde expressed optimism, stating that this event would help build a core of female footballers and serve as a platform for talent development. The tournament kicks off on November 30, 2024, and runs through January 4, 2025, with a total prize pool of GYD 800,000.

Environment and Agriculture

Drainage Support Benefits Over 260 Canal Polder Farmers

More than 260 farmers in Canal Polder, West Bank Demerara, have received upgrades to their farms' drainage systems. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha shared that an internal drainage improvement program has been underway, and an additional 200 farms will be serviced before completion. Mustapha highlighted plans for a new pump station to discharge 126,000 gallons of water per minute, enhancing flood control and irrigation. He urged farmers to adopt climate-smart practices and assured them of government efforts to remove export barriers with CARICOM, boosting the agricultural sector.

Guyana and UK to Co-Chair Forest and Climate Leaders' Partnership

Guyana and the United Kingdom have taken on joint leadership of the Forest and Climate Leaders' Partnership (FCLP), a global initiative launched at COP29 to address deforestation and land degradation. The partnership brings together government leaders, private-sector partners, Indigenous representatives, and civil society to promote sustainable development and rural economic transformation. The FCLP seeks to mobilize political and financial support to meet the goal of halting and reversing deforestation by 2030.

UK Energy Secretary Ed Milliband emphasized that forests are essential for climate stability, biodiversity, and human livelihoods, making conservation a priority. Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, highlighted the need for practical pathways to achieve ambitious conservation goals, particularly in forest-rich nations. With COP30 set to be held in Brazil, the partnership will focus on initiatives like tackling illegal deforestation, enhancing forest governance, and boosting forest protection investments. The FCLP also underscores the importance of Indigenous rights, ensuring land tenure and recognition as key components of conservation efforts. Through mechanisms such as forest carbon markets and the upcoming Tropical Forests Forever Facility, the FCLP aims to expand funding and resources dedicated to preserving forests worldwide.

Sports

Golden Jaguars Announce Squad for Nations League Play-In Against Barbados

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has revealed the Golden Jaguars squad for their CONCACAF Nations League Play-In match against Barbados. This crucial game on November 15, 2024, will determine Guyana’s qualification for the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup preliminary round. Acting Head Coach Wayne Dover expressed confidence in the team, which blends experienced players with fresh talent. Fans are encouraged to follow updates on the GFF’s social media and support the team as they strive for a spot in the Gold Cup.

Guyana Sends Five-Member Badminton Team to Suriname International

A five-member Guyanese badminton team is competing in the Suriname International tournament from November 13-17 in Paramaribo. Representing Guyana are Akili Haynes, Priyanna Ramdhani, Nkosi Beaton, Frank Waddell, and Jonathan Debidin. The team will participate in Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles events. The Guyana Badminton Association thanked sponsors, including the Guyana Olympic Association, for supporting the team’s participation in this championship.

Guyana Returns to 2024 FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in Puerto Rico

Guyana’s basketball team will compete in the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup from December 13-15, 2024, in Puerto Rico, marking their third appearance in this premier 3×3 basketball event. GBF President Michael Singh is committed to fielding a strong team, blending local talent and overseas players, with a training camp planned for preparation. Singh noted the growth of 3×3 basketball in Guyana and hopes for corporate and governmental support to boost the team’s performance in this highly competitive tournament.