October 18th, 2024

 Fact of the day: Egypt, often regarded as the world’s oldest country, dates back to 3100 BCE when Pharaoh Narmer unified Upper and Lower Egypt, forming the First Dynasty. Flourishing along the Nile, Egypt’s civilization thrived through agriculture, monumental architecture (like the Pyramids and Sphinx), and advances in writing, science, and art. Its historical power peaked during the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, supported by stable monarchy and strategic geography. Egypt’s contributions to mathematics, medicine, and architecture have left a lasting legacy that continues to captivate historians and the public today.

Jokes of the day:

-       How much does it cost to swim with sharks? An arm and a leg.

-       How do you make an egg-roll? You push it!

-       What did the horse say after it tripped? Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t giddy-up!

-       I went to buy a pair of camouflage pants, but I couldn’t find any.

Government & Policy

Greater Guyana Initiative Expands Focus to Education and Hinterland Development

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge recently updated the public on the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI), a $100 million program aimed at boosting Guyana's capacity beyond the oil industry. Launched in 2021, the initiative, which is a collaboration between ExxonMobil and its Stabroek Block co-venturers, has already allocated approximately half of its $20 billion Guyanese dollar commitment. Its primary focus has been on vocational training, educational infrastructure, and economic development in rural areas.

Key partnerships, like the one with the University of Guyana (UG), aim to develop new facilities for engineering and technical training, including classrooms and laboratories. Routledge emphasized that these investments are meant to equip the workforce with the skills necessary for the country's long-term growth, particularly beyond oil. Additionally, the GGI is working with technical and vocational institutions to expand practical skills training programs, such as electrical work and welding, to meet the demands of both the oil and non-oil sectors.

In the hinterland regions, GGI has implemented smaller-scale projects, including the "Egg Sandwich Project," which promotes poultry farming to provide sustainable protein sources and foster economic growth. Routledge highlighted that these efforts are designed to build resilience and economic opportunities in remote areas, ensuring that all regions of Guyana benefit from the country’s rapid development.

The initiative underscores ExxonMobil's commitment to supporting Guyana's diversification and sustainable development in the face of its booming oil industry.

Jagdeo Emphasizes PPP’s Progress and Warns Youth About PNC’s ‘Dark History’

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, addressing the media following a successful youth conference at Tain Campus, reinforced the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C)’s commitment to youth empowerment. The event, attended by over 3,000 young people, showcased the governing party’s efforts to engage the younger generation. Jagdeo criticized the opposition, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), for its history of electoral fraud and economic mismanagement, urging young people to understand Guyana’s past.

Jagdeo highlighted the diversity at the conference and the importance of educating youth on the country's political history, positioning them as agents of change for Guyana’s future. He also reflected on his own political journey, noting that the PPP/C has long provided leadership opportunities to youth.

While celebrating the PPP’s progress, Jagdeo pointed out the failures of the PNC during its 28 years in power, citing economic decline and the rigging of elections. He encouraged young people to research the nation's history to better appreciate the progress made under the PPP.

The VP reiterated that the PPP’s vision includes continued development in education, infrastructure, and the economy, contrasting it with the PNC’s policies, which, according to Jagdeo, set the nation back.

‘Fairer and More Equitable’: Jagdeo on Revised $100K Cash Grant

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo lauded the government’s revised $100,000 cash grant initiative as a more transparent and equitable approach to benefiting citizens. Speaking a day after President Dr. Irfaan Ali's announcement, Jagdeo emphasized that the updated plan, which provides $100,000 for every citizen aged 18 and above, aligns with the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) 2020 election manifesto. The initiative replaces the original proposal of $200,000 per household after feedback revealed concerns about fairness and fraud risks.

Jagdeo noted that the shift from households to individuals ensures broader inclusivity and prevents potential fraud, although it would increase costs for the government. The funds will primarily be distributed via cheques to enhance transparency, and special arrangements will be made for residents in remote areas, such as the hinterlands, to access their grants.

The initiative will undergo rigorous auditing to maintain accountability, and every citizen will be required to collect their grant in person. The government aims to complete the distribution process within five months.

Jagdeo also highlighted that the grant initiative, supported by Guyana’s oil revenues, reflects the government's commitment to improving citizens' lives through jobs, infrastructure, and social programs.

Jagdeo Criticizes Opposition's Stance on Cash Transfers

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday sharply criticized the opposition for attempting to take credit for the government’s $100,000 cash grant initiative. Jagdeo specifically called out the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), part of the opposition APNU Coalition, accusing them of hypocrisy.

He cited former Finance Minister Winston Jordan, a key figure in the APNU/AFC government, who had previously dismissed cash grants as impractical. Jagdeo reinforced that the initiative was a core promise of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) in their 2020 election manifesto and not an idea borrowed from the opposition.

Jagdeo emphasized the inconsistency of the opposition, stating that they had initially derided cash transfers as unworkable but now seek to align themselves with its success. He reaffirmed that the initiative was part of President Irfaan Ali’s campaign commitment to improving the lives of all Guyanese, and that the opposition's past opposition to the idea is well-documented.

Business & Economy

Bilateral Economic Alliance Expands as Ghana Joins Suriname/Guyana Chamber Initiative

A significant expansion of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) initiative has taken place with the official inclusion of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce Guyana (GCCG). This new partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown during the International Business Conference.

Led by Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Chairman of the SGCC, the initiative aims to streamline collaboration between bilateral business chambers from Guyana, Canada, the Dominican Republic, and now Ghana. Dr. Doerga emphasized the need for a unified platform to avoid redundancy and facilitate better information sharing. “We want to ensure all chambers have equal access to critical information, helping smooth the process of organizing meetings with foreign missions and bringing investment to Guyana,” he said.

Ghana’s involvement is seen as a key step in fostering trade and investment opportunities between Guyana and West Africa. The inclusion of the Ghana Chamber provides valuable insights, particularly in agro-processing and renewable energy, areas where both nations are on progressive paths. “This partnership is a win-win situation,” Dr. Doerga noted.

Marcia Krager, Office Manager of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce, echoed these sentiments, expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration. “We are not just discussing trade; we are laying the foundation for a future based on collaboration and shared prosperity,” she stated.

In addition to Ghana, the SGCC has also expanded its network through MoUs with various regional chambers, including the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association and others, highlighting the growing commitment to regional trade and investment.

Oil Blocks Auction: TotalEnergies Group, Three Other Companies Accept Contracts

A consortium led by TotalEnergies, alongside Qatar Energy International and Petronas Overseas, is among four companies that have accepted the contracts for new offshore oil blocks in Guyana following the country’s first-ever oil auction. The consortium secured Block S4, and is currently finalizing the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with the Guyanese government.

In addition to TotalEnergies, International Group Investment Inc. has accepted PSAs for Blocks S5 and S10. Cybele Energy Limited and Delcopr Inc. have also moved forward with the final stages of review for their respective blocks, S7 and D1.

Notably, Sispro Inc., a company led by Guyanese women, has yet to respond to the government’s offer for Blocks D2 and S3. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil’s consortium, which includes Hess and CNOOC, is still reviewing the PSA for Block S8. They are also exploring the potential for carbon capture and storage within this block.

The auction included 14 oil blocks in shallow and deep waters, with bids submitted for eight. The review process is ongoing as companies finalize their agreements with the government.

Guyana’s Oil Helping to Prevent Price Manipulation – US Official

Guyana’s growing oil production is playing a significant role in stabilizing global energy markets and preventing price manipulation, according to a U.S. State Department official. Laura Lochman, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Energy Resources at the U.S. Department of State, highlighted that oil from Guyana, along with other producers like Brazil, Argentina, and the U.S., is adding vital capacity to the global energy market, making it more difficult for price manipulators to harm consumers.

Speaking at the La Jolla Energy Conference in San Diego, Lochman praised Guyana's rapid oil production growth since 2019, particularly in the Stabroek Block, led by ExxonMobil. The country is now producing over 660,000 barrels of oil per day, a figure expected to nearly double to 1.3 million barrels daily by 2027.

Lochman emphasized that Guyana has quickly established itself as a major oil producer in the Americas, reshaping energy markets in the process. She also noted that the U.S. is committed to being the "partner of choice" for Latin American and Caribbean countries in modernizing their energy systems, while also supporting clean energy goals through initiatives like the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030.

Crime & Law Enforcement

Deputy Commissioner Brutus Takes Legal Battle to High Court as Charges Loom

Deputy Commissioner of Police (acting) Calvin Brutus, currently under investigation for alleged financial misconduct, has taken his case to the High Court. Filing an application on October 16, 2024, Brutus aims to challenge the actions taken against him by multiple authorities, including the Attorney General, Ministry of Home Affairs, Police Service Commission, and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Brutus claims he has been unfairly denied access to his personal accounts, which has affected his ability to conduct business, and argues that he has been a victim of improper procedures during the investigation. His legal team, led by attorneys Earl Daniels, Yuborn Alicock, and Dominic Bess, is seeking several court declarations, including that the actions of acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken to transfer him were beyond legal authority and politically motivated.

The SOCU investigation, ongoing since July 2024, initially focused on financial irregularities within the Guyana Police Force Credit Union, later expanding when over $40 million Guyanese dollars were found in accounts belonging to Brutus and his relatives. The funds were claimed to be wedding gifts. SOCU has recommended multiple charges against Brutus, and the case files have been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions for further action. Brutus, however, maintains that the investigation has been biased and tainted by media coverage, impacting his right to a fair process.

Brutus's application also challenges decisions by the Cabinet and the Police Service Commission to place him on leave, arguing that these actions were unlawful. He seeks to have the court quash the decisions to transfer him and place him on leave, while also questioning the handling of the investigation itself.

U.S. and Guyana Hold Pivotal Talks on Enhancing Law Enforcement Collaboration

On Thursday, Timothy Semons, Regional Security Officer at the U.S. Embassy, led a team in a critical meeting with Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken and senior officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The discussions aimed to strengthen the ongoing security partnership between the United States and Guyana, with a focus on improving law enforcement capabilities.

The talks centered around technical support and capacity-building initiatives provided by U.S. law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA). These programs are designed to enhance the GPF’s crime-fighting abilities through specialized training, intelligence sharing, and technical resources.

Both sides discussed how U.S. agencies could assist in boosting the GPF’s investigative techniques and intelligence operations. Commissioner Hicken expressed gratitude for the U.S. government's continued support, emphasizing its importance in maintaining public safety and the rule of law in Guyana. Semons reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to helping Guyana address security challenges and improve law enforcement effectiveness.

Local News

Aarti Hooblal Becomes First in Her Family to be Called to the Bar

Aarti Hooblal was officially called to the local Bar, marking the beginning of her career as an Attorney-at-Law. During the ceremony, Hooblal expressed her deep gratitude to the judiciary, her mentors, and her family for their unwavering support throughout her journey.

Hooblal, who comes from a humble background, shared the challenges and successes she faced along the way. “It is a great privilege to have been presented by Dr. Kim-Kyte Thomas, head of the law department at the University of Guyana and a pillar in the legal profession,” she said, acknowledging the inspiration and support from Dr. Thomas.

Becoming the first Attorney-at-Law in her family, Hooblal dedicated the achievement to her parents, Nirmala and Bhramdeo Hooblal, as well as her siblings. She also credited her grandmother, Ms. Rampattie, a retired teacher, for laying the foundation for her academic success. "I am indebted to my parents for their sacrifices that enabled me to pursue this path,” Hooblal added.

Hooblal further thanked her law firm, Kyte Small and Barker, and its principal, Ms. Kim Kyte, for mentoring her throughout her legal education. She highlighted the valuable experience she gained at the firm, which helped shape her into the professional she is today. Additionally, she paid tribute to her fiancé, Aaron, for his emotional support during law school.

Reflecting on her journey, Hooblal revealed that she initially never imagined becoming a lawyer, but the study of law transformed her life and ignited a passion for justice. Her experience working at the Ministry of Legal Affairs and during in-service training reinforced her commitment to serving her clients with competence and integrity.

This significant milestone is a testament to Hooblal's hard work, dedication, and the support of her family and mentors.

Health and Safety

Labour Ministry Expresses Concern Over Three Workplace Deaths in Five Days

The Ministry of Labour is raising alarms after three fatal workplace incidents occurred within five days in October. These tragic accidents, which claimed the lives of workers in the construction and mining sectors, have prompted urgent calls for stricter adherence to safety protocols.

The first incident occurred on Saturday, October 12, when Patrick Picket, a serviceman at Top Mix Cement, was fatally injured while servicing a 14-tonne ready-mix cement truck. The vehicle was moved unexpectedly, catching Picket beneath it, and despite being rushed to Diamond Regional Hospital, he was pronounced dead.

The following day, October 13, Marlon Davidson, a 37-year-old Security Supervisor with Hopkinson Mining Security Firm, lost his life in an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) accident on Sand Hill Trail. He lost control of the ATV while on duty, leading to fatal injuries.

The third fatality occurred on Wednesday, October 16, in Region Eight, where a suspected drowning is under investigation by the Ministry of Labour.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton has expressed deep concern over these preventable tragedies, calling for an immediate review of safety measures in high-risk industries like mining and construction. He emphasized the importance of following the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act, Chapter 99:06, which mandates safe working conditions. The Ministry is urging employers to prioritize safety, implement continuous training, and maintain equipment to prevent further fatalities.

Minister Hamilton conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and reinforced the Ministry's commitment to fostering safer work environments.

Education

STEM Partnership to Shape Future Guyanese Engineers

A new partnership between Harmony Education Solutions (HES) and ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. (ACI) is set to revolutionize STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education in Guyana. Officially launched during the International Business Conference in Georgetown, the collaboration brings an internationally recognized STEM curriculum to local schools, aimed at developing the next generation of engineers and technical professionals. U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot, presided over the signing ceremony.

Under the agreement, HES—a U.S.-based network of high-performance STEM schools—will share its expertise and resources with Guyanese schools, which will now adopt global STEM standards as "Harmony Partner Schools." Vishnu Doerga, CEO of ACI, highlighted the growing demand for highly skilled engineers in Guyana and the Caribbean, emphasizing that the partnership is crucial to the region’s future economic growth. Doerga also revealed that land in Cummings Lodge has been secured for a state-of-the-art institution, scheduled to open in 2026, with an investment ranging between seven and ten million USD.

David Ackdemir, CEO of HES, stressed the importance of a holistic educational approach that prepares students not only with STEM skills but also the character required to succeed in today’s economy. With experience across Texas and Africa, HES has already impacted over 45,000 students and is excited to expand into Guyana.

Ambassador Theriot commended the partnership for its role in equipping Guyanese students with essential tools to compete globally. She emphasized that as the demand for skilled professionals, particularly engineers, increases, this collaboration is a vital step toward strengthening Guyana’s future workforce.

This initiative will also benefit Camille’s Academy in Guyana, which currently educates nearly 2,000 students and will soon offer a STEM-focused curriculum under the new model.

Sports

Emmerson Campbell Eyes Career-Defining Pro Card at CAC Bodybuilding Championships

Emmerson Campbell, Guyana’s leading Men’s Physique competitor, is gearing up for the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding Championships set for October 19-20 at the National Cultural Centre. This competition represents a crucial moment in Campbell's career, as he aims to secure the elusive Pro Card that he has been chasing for seven years.

Campbell, a dominant figure in Guyanese bodybuilding, has won the Men’s Physique title at Guyana’s Senior Bodybuilding Championships seven times in the last eight years, with only one third-place finish in 2017. Internationally, he has also proven his skills, collecting a gold, three silver, and a bronze medal at previous CAC Championships. Notably, in 2023, he became the first Guyanese athlete to win gold in the Men’s Physique class, narrowly missing the Pro Card by finishing second overall.

Now, with his focus on the prestigious International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Elite Pro Card, Campbell is confident in his preparation and believes he is “the man to beat” at the upcoming event. The competition marks not only a personal milestone but also highlights the rise of bodybuilding in Guyana, with Campbell carrying the hopes of the local bodybuilding community on his shoulders.

As the championship approaches, anticipation builds for Campbell's performance, and his supporters are eager to see if he can finally secure the international recognition he has long pursued.

India Collapses for 46 as Henry and Conway Lead New Zealand's Dominant Day

India faced a shocking collapse, bowled out for just 46 runs by New Zealand on the second day of the first Test in Bengaluru. After rain wiped out the first day, India chose to bat on a tricky, seaming pitch but struggled against New Zealand's fast bowlers. This dismal score marks India’s third-lowest total in Test cricket history.

Seamers Matt Henry and Will O'Rourke wreaked havoc, taking 5-15 and 4-22 respectively, while several Indian batsmen, including Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin, were dismissed without scoring. Only Rishabh Pant (20) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) managed to reach double figures.

India's 46 is their lowest score in a home Test, only surpassed by their infamous 36 all out against Australia in Adelaide in 2020 and 42 all out against England at Lord’s in 1974.

In reply, New Zealand reached 180-3 by the end of the day, gaining a commanding lead of 134 runs. Openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway put on a solid 67-run partnership, with Conway continuing his stellar form to score 91 from 105 balls, further cementing New Zealand’s dominant position in the Test.

Republic Bank/One Guyana National ‘B’ Division Volleyball Kicks Off with Playoff Matches

The inaugural Republic Bank/One Guyana National ‘B’ Division Volleyball competition began last weekend (October 12-13) with playoff matches featuring 14 teams from various regions across Guyana. In Mabaruma, Region One, Spartans claimed the title, defeating Thomas Hills Club with scores of 25-21 and 25-16. In Region Four, Alpha triumphed over Castrol Strikers in a five-set battle, finishing 25-19, 25-14, 17-25, 18-25, and 15-10. Seven male teams participated in the competition.

For the female category, Classic Ball Blasters outplayed Castrol Strikers with a 25-17, 25-23 win, while the Mighty Force team overcame Siparuta with scores of 25-18 and 25-23 in a three-team contest.

This weekend (October 19-20), additional playoff games will take place in Regions Five, Six, Two, and Seven, including locations like Moruca, Mainstay, Capoey, Bartica, and Upper Mazaruni. The competition, hailed as a first for local volleyball, will culminate on November 10, with G$300,000 in prize money, trophies, and medals up for grabs. Several individual awards will also be given in both male and female categories.

West Indies Crushed by Sri Lanka in Nine-Wicket Defeat, Losing Series 2-1

West Indies' hopes of securing another T20 series victory were dashed as they suffered a nine-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in the decisive third match of the series in Dambulla. Sri Lanka, claiming their third consecutive series win, secured a 2-1 victory. After opting to bat first, West Indies posted a total of 162 for 8, but their effort fell short against a strong Sri Lankan side, which chased the target with ease, finishing at 166 for 1 in just 18 overs.

Key performances from Sri Lankan batsmen Kusal Mendis (68*), Kusal Perera (55*), and Pathum Nissanka (39) anchored the victory. West Indies captain Rovman Powell top-scored for his side with 37, supported by Gudakesh Motie’s 32. Despite their efforts, the West Indies bowlers couldn’t control the game, allowing Sri Lanka to dominate the Powerplay and cruise to victory.

Captain Powell acknowledged that while their score was competitive, Sri Lanka’s aggressive batting, especially in the Powerplay, made it difficult for his team to recover. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka praised his team’s top-order performance, expressing satisfaction with the series win.

Australia Stunned by South Africa in T20 World Cup Semi-Finals

Australia faced a shocking exit from the T20 World Cup semi-finals as South Africa secured a dominant eight-wicket victory in Dubai. The defending champions were restricted to 134 for 5 in their innings, with South Africa chasing down the target in just 16 balls to spare, finishing at 135 for 2.

Anneke Bosch led the charge with an unbeaten 74 off 48 balls, while captain Laura Wolvaardt added 42 in a vital second-wicket partnership of 96. The duo's performance left Australia struggling to recover. Earlier, Australia’s innings faltered, with Beth Mooney scoring 44 off 42 balls but unable to lift the team to a competitive total. Grace Harris and Georgia Wareham fell early in the powerplay, and the middle-order struggles continued, with Tahlia McGrath scoring a slow 27 off 33 balls.

South Africa's bowlers applied pressure throughout, and their batters confidently chased the target, securing their second successive final appearance in the tournament.

Australia Shocked in T20 World Cup Semi-Finals by South Africa

Australia’s bid for another T20 World Cup title ended unexpectedly as South Africa triumphed with an eight-wicket victory in the semi-finals held in Dubai. The Proteas chased down Australia’s total of 134 for 5 with ease, reaching 135 for 2 with 16 balls to spare.

Anneke Bosch played a crucial role in the victory, scoring an unbeaten 74 off 48 balls, while captain Laura Wolvaardt contributed 42 in a 96-run second-wicket partnership that left Australia struggling. South Africa’s bowlers had earlier restricted Australia’s run-scoring efforts, with Beth Mooney leading the way for Australia with 44 off 42 balls. Despite a late effort from Ellyse Perry, who scored 31 off 23 balls, Australia’s total was insufficient.

South Africa’s aggressive start in the powerplay, compared to Australia’s slower pace, helped secure their place in the final for the second consecutive year. This victory ensures a final without either Australia or England for the first time in a white-ball format.

Atlas Security Services Inc. Golf Tournament to Tee-Off Saturday

The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) will host the Atlas Security Services Inc. Golf Tournament on Saturday, October 19, 2024. This event acts as a preparatory round for golfers ahead of the Brava Guyana Open 2024. The tournament will be played in a medal format, with participants divided into two flights based on their handicaps. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each flight, and additional prizes will be given for the Longest Drive and Nearest to the Pin.

LGC President Anasha Ally expressed appreciation for Atlas Security Services Inc.'s sponsorship, highlighting its importance in helping players refine their skills before the Brava Guyana Open. Atlas Security, known for providing reliable and professional security services, emphasizes training, leadership, and a strict code of conduct.

Golf enthusiasts are invited to join this event as they prepare for the major tournament ahead.

Over 150 Athletes, 20 Countries Set for CAC Bodybuilding Championships in Guyana

The highly anticipated Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding Championships will take place in Guyana from October 19th to 20th at the National Cultural Centre. Keavon Bess, President of the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, confirmed that all preparations are complete for the event, which is expected to attract over 150 athletes from 20 countries.

This prestigious championship offers 14 International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) pro-cards, awarded to the winners of each overall segment in their category. The competition promises to be intense, showcasing top talent from across the region.

Guyanese athletes Emmerson Campbell (Men’s Physique) and Julio Sinclair (Bodybuilding) are among the local favorites, both aiming for pro-card status. Their performances are anticipated to stand out in a strong field of competitors, with Guyana eyeing the overall titles in both categories. Bess has called for strong local support to cheer on the Guyanese athletes during this highly competitive event.

The championship is supported by several sponsors, including Fitness Express, Camille Academy, Jims Variety Store, and the Guyana Olympic Association. Tickets are available for G$2,000 at the National Cultural Centre Box Office, and the event will span the weekend, with finals taking place on Saturday and Sunday. Athletes from countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Jamaica, and Mexico will be competing, making this a diverse and exciting showcase of regional bodybuilding talent.

Demerara and Essequibo to Battle for Senior Inter-County 50-Over Title

Demerara will defend its Senior Inter-County 50-over title against Essequibo in the final set for Saturday at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda, starting at 9:00 AM. The finalists were confirmed after the completion of the preliminary rounds on Thursday.

In the last matchup, Demerara posted a total of 227, with Akshaya Persaud leading the way, scoring 62 off 50 balls. Tagenarine Chanderpaul contributed 41 runs, while Ronaldo Alimohamed added a quick 39 from 37 balls. For Essequibo, Keemo Paul took 3-43, supported by Antony Adams (2-20) and Quentin Sampson (2-33). However, despite a steady start, Essequibo’s inability to maintain a solid run rate resulted in their defeat, as no major partnerships formed after the fall of key wickets.

In another match, Berbice achieved a commanding six-wicket victory over the Guyana Cricket Board’s Select XI. Kevin Sinclair’s impressive bowling performance, with figures of 5-32, helped bowl out the Select XI for 127. Despite a strong 72-run effort by Jonathan Van Lange, the Select XI couldn’t recover. Berbice’s chase was led by Rampertab Ramnauth, who scored a brisk 52, and Junior Sinclair, who added 38, sealing the win in just 13.2 overs.

The final promises to be an exciting contest as Demerara and Essequibo battle it out for the championship title.