October 19th, 2024

Fact of the day: Did you know that around 80% of Guyana is covered by forests? These vast tropical rainforests are part of the Amazon Basin, making Guyana one of the most forested countries in the world. This rich biodiversity supports thousands of unique plant and animal species.

Guyana's forests play a crucial role in combating climate change by acting as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The government promotes sustainable forest management practices through initiatives like REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation).

Indigenous communities rely on these forests for food, medicine, and shelter, while the forestry sector significantly contributes to the economy through timber production and eco-tourism. Protecting and sustainably managing its forests ensures the long-term health of Guyana's environment and economy while supporting global efforts against climate change.

Read more on this: https://www.wwfguianas.org/our_work/programmes/redd/#:~:text=The%20strong%20REDD%2B%20capacity%20developed,condition%20for%20further%20forest%20conservation.&text=Opt%2Din%20is%20the%20mechanism,forests%20to%20a%20REDD%2B%20agreement.

Humor of the day:

1. Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? Just in case he got a hole in one.

2. What did the janitor say when he jumped out of the closet? Supplies!

3. What do you call a herd of sheep falling down a hill? A lambslide. 

4. Why do melons have weddings? Because they cantaloupe.

Business

ENet Celebrated as a Salesforce Success Story at TM Innovate Americas

ENet (E-Networks Inc.), Guyana’s leading telecommunications provider, was celebrated as a Salesforce success story at TM Innovate Americas 2024 in Dallas, Texas, from September 23 to 24. This prestigious event gathered global telecom leaders to discuss innovative strategies for growth.

The focus was on how companies like ENet utilize Open Digital Architecture (ODA) and APIs to meet customer needs. By leveraging Salesforce's advanced technology, ENet has positioned itself as a key innovator in the telecom sector.

CEO Vishok Persaud discussed ENet’s digital transformation journey, emphasizing how the company has adopted cloud-native solutions to enhance agility and customer focus. He noted that ENet’s use of AI and automation facilitates rapid growth and cost reduction.

Persaud stated, “At ENet, we’re committed to using the best technology to improve life for our customers. This enables us to provide faster, reliable, and affordable services.”

The event also highlighted ENet's status as the only 5G provider in Guyana, operating the largest fiber backbone and the nation’s only indigenously owned international subsea cable. Through these innovations, ENet is paving the way for telecommunications growth and laying the foundation for future advancements in Guyana.

Education

UG Needs More Funding for Research

The University of Guyana (UG) is dedicated to incorporating research into its curriculum at all levels. This commitment was highlighted by UG's Vice Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, during the opening ceremony of the Institute for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UGIRIE) Second Exhibition of Innovations.

Professor Patsy Francis, Executive Director of UGIRIE, urged the government to boost funding for research at UG, emphasizing its vital role in Guyana's rapid development. “The government says we want more microbiological packages, information on ICT and different areas. We at UG will package it and make it more, now you just gotta give us the money,” she stated.

Professor Martin pointed out the importance of research across all programs, mentioning the establishment of seven research centers in recent years, including the successful Centre for Early Childhood Education, which focuses on early childhood development and conditions like autism. “The University of Guyana insists that all students, both undergraduate and others, every single program must have a research component,” she said.

Additionally, Professor Martin noted that UG offers various research-related services that could be monetized to address funding gaps. This includes testing labs for water, soil, and concrete, as well as psychometric evaluations and counseling services. Over the past three years, UG's press has published five new books, and the university has developed an online research hub that archives all UG research from the past decade, accessible to the public.

“There is so much that is happening in the country, at the university, in the region, and in the world that research and innovation have to address and fill those gaps and help us solve those problems,” Professor Martin concluded.

Agriculture and Environment

In Innovative Push, GSA Students Make Bread from Rice, Sweet Potato

In an effort to reduce food import costs, students at the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) have developed a bread-making project using rice, cassava, and sweet potato flours instead of imported wheat. Akeem Williams, a food processing technician, emphasized the benefits of incorporating local products, stating, “You can incorporate locally produced products like rice flour and cassava flour, which make really nice bread; we also have sweet potato bread here.”

The new bread is featured at the University of Guyana Institute for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (UGIRIE) Second Exhibition of Innovations, showcasing over 40 projects. The initiative, part of Agriculture Month, aims to make the bread available in local supermarkets, with positive public feedback.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced that by 2025, Guyana intends to cut food imports by US$40 million as part of a regional effort to decrease food imports by 25%. CARICOM countries are collaborating to boost local food production and trade, reducing reliance on external imports.

Earthquake Monitoring Capacity Improved in Region 9

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), in collaboration with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the National Data Management Agency (NDMA), with support from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), has enhanced earthquake monitoring in Region 9. Recent upgrades were made to four Raspberry Seismographs situated in South Rupununi, which are now equipped to detect seismic activities in the region.

These seismographs now feature reliable internet connections, facilitating remote monitoring and efficient data collection, thanks to NDMA's provision. Each device underwent thorough inspections to address any performance issues, ensuring they are well-maintained.

Residents from communities previously affected by seismic events have praised the upgrades and expressed their commitment to protecting the equipment. This initiative followed a high-level meeting between senior CDC officials and the Region 9 Chairman, Bryan Allicock, who emphasized the significance of such monitoring efforts and pledged full support for disaster risk management initiatives in the region.

Local News

Deep Jale Launches on Saturday with ‘Bazaar’ as Countdown to Diwali Begins

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will begin its countdown to Diwali 2024 with the Deep Jale event at the Kitty Seawall Roundabout in Georgetown, featuring a vibrant display of lights and cultural presentations. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, a bazaar will be included alongside the event.

President Dr. Vindhya Persaud noted that the event will showcase talented Guyanese artists through music, song, and dance. Deep Jale, a national staple, will run nightly from October 19 to 30, culminating in a motorcade from the Shri Krishna Mandir to the La Bonne Intention Community Center.

Participating artists include Kishan Sugrim, Suraj Singh, Sookrane Boodhoo, Rekha Singh, and others. Celebrations will also occur nationwide, including a gathering at the Indian Heritage Monument Site in Palmyra on October 23.

The bazaar will offer traditional Indian cuisine and various items for purchase, enhancing the experience for attendees. The event is free and encourages families to learn about and enjoy the festival. Additional activities will include an Inter-School Rangoli Competition and a fashion show.

Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) is Positively Impacting Lives

Tisheree Taylor, a participant of the Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme, learned about the initiative through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security's social media. Since joining, she has completed several programmes, including learning to make pin cushions and various garment designs. She encourages young people to take advantage of the free opportunities offered.

Another beneficiary, Tiofania Marques, also found WIIN on social media and appreciates the skills she has gained, from sewing to business planning. The ministry continues to invite the public to enroll for free courses through WIIN and other platforms. Since its launch in 2021, WIIN has transformed lives by providing quality education to over eleven thousand graduates across Guyana.

Courses offered include Home Management, Project Management, Social Media Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Child Care, Care for the Elderly, Garment Construction, and Graphic Design.

Blind with a Positive Attitude: How Oliver Kerr Does It

Oliver Kerr's life changed drastically at the age of nine when he lost his sight due to retinal detachment. Despite this challenge, he has maintained a positive attitude, which he believes is crucial for navigating life. In a recent interview at the Guyana Society for the Blind, he humorously noted that people often don't believe him when he claims he has no challenges, attributing this to his mindset.

During Road Safety Month, Kerr discussed how he navigates roadways safely and the need for public support for individuals with disabilities. He urges public transportation operators to show courtesy to blind and visually impaired individuals, emphasizing that they have places to go and money to pay for rides, just like everyone else.

Kerr highlighted the difficulty of some drivers who prioritize sighted passengers, explaining that those with visual impairments often develop unique techniques to find their way home, such as counting speed bumps or using landmarks. After 7 PM, public transportation becomes scarce, forcing them to rely on taxis, which can be financially challenging. He acknowledges life's inherent challenges but remains determined to find ways to overcome them.

‘Human Services’ Hosts ‘Her Vision’ Workshop to Inspire Girls

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security held the ‘Her Vision, Her Future Empowerment Workshop’ on Friday at the Regency Suites Hotel in Georgetown, aiming to empower young girls in childcare. Organized by the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA) through its Family Support Services Unit and the Young Influencers program, the event featured discussions led by Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who emphasized the importance of knowing one’s rights.

Dr. Persaud encouraged attendees to learn about their rights, stating, “You can stand up for those rights and encourage your friends to do the same.” Senior Officer Sherri-Ann Francois reinforced the workshop’s goal of creating a supportive environment for young women to explore their aspirations and apply what they learn.

This initiative seeks to equip the next generation of women in Guyana with the knowledge and confidence to successfully navigate their futures.

More Persons to be Employed in Region Ten as US BPO Company Hosts Job Fair in Linden

The Government of Guyana is intensifying its efforts to boost employment nationwide, supporting the private sector and facilitating Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) centers in various regions. On Friday, Senior Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill attended a job fair hosted by Prochant, a US-based BPO company, in collaboration with the government, at the Watooka Guest House in Linden, Region Ten.

The job fair offered residents of Linden and surrounding communities training opportunities through Prochant, aiming to provide employment with the US-based global company. Prochant, with over 25 years of experience and 2,500 employees in the US healthcare sector, plans to hire 100 individuals by the first half of 2025.

Dr. Singh welcomed Prochant to Guyana and expressed hope for further expansion, which could employ thousands of Guyanese. He noted the government's ongoing support for the BPO sector and the evolution of call centers from basic telemarketing to value-added services.

Minister Edghill encouraged attendees to embrace the training opportunities and to work diligently once employed, emphasizing that the initiative's success depends on the quality of their efforts. The government is committed to making Guyana a preferred destination for BPOs, continuously engaging with the industry to create job opportunities.

Crime & Safety

High Court Blocks Brutus’ U.S. Trip, Citing 240 Pending Charges for Alleged Financial Crimes

A High Court judge has denied Assistant Police Commissioner (ag) Calvin Brutus' request to travel to the U.S. with his pregnant wife, Adonika Aulder, who needs medical care. Justice Gino Persaud rejected the request, highlighting Brutus's pending 240 charges related to financial misconduct and the lack of necessary clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Brutus's lawyer argued that without travel permission, his wife may face delays for medical appointments. However, the State opposed the request, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the risk of flight. The Court agreed, noting that Brutus did not follow proper procedures for travel clearance and lacked evidence that medical treatment was unavailable in Guyana.

Justice Persaud dismissed the application, stating that the gravity of the situation outweighed their claims of constitutional rights infringement, ordering the couple to pay 250,000 Guyanese dollars in costs.

Armed Robbery Lands Rose Hall Man in Jail

A 27-year-old man, Kelvin Bates, was remanded to prison on Thursday after being charged with armed robbery against Mohamed Hussein, a 29-year-old operator from Albion Estate. Bates was arrested on Monday and appeared in New Amsterdam Magistrates Court without entering a plea.

The incident occurred around 3:40 AM when Hussein was riding home on his motorcycle. Bates and an accomplice approached him, pushed him off the bike, and demanded the keys while brandishing a gun. Hussein, wearing a helmet, suffered minor injuries despite being struck. The assailants stole his motorcycle, a cellphone valued at 45,000 Guyanese dollars, and 6,000 Guyanese dollars in cash.

Pedestrians, Motorcyclists Make Up Majority of 97 Road Deaths Recorded

In 2024, ninety-seven individuals died in road accidents in Guyana, primarily involving pedestrians and motorcyclists. This represents a decrease from last year's total of one hundred forty deaths from one hundred eighteen accidents.

Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn emphasized the need for immediate action to address the situation, citing speeding and reckless driving, especially among men aged eighteen to thirty, as the leading causes of fatalities. Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh noted that recent accidents highlighted issues like lack of safety equipment and poor planning.

The majority of fatal incidents occur between Thursday evening and Tuesday evening. To combat this, the ministry plans to collaborate with the Guyana Police Force on new measures, including legislative changes for stricter penalties and heavier fines for traffic offenses.

The Ministry also aims to launch the "Do the Right Thing" campaign to promote safe driving practices, coinciding with National Road Safety Month in November 2024. This initiative aligns with the UN's goal for Guyana to achieve fifty road deaths or fewer annually by 2030.

Sports

‘Historic for Guyana’ as Sod Turned for Construction of Football Stadium

The sod-turning ceremony for the Blue Water Shipping Stadium signifies a major milestone for football in Guyana, transforming a long-held dream into reality. The event, attended by Concacaf President Victor Montagliani and Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde, took place on Friday.

Montagliani praised the progress under Forde's leadership, highlighting the importance of such projects in enhancing facilities and fostering a vibrant football culture. He noted that while CONCACAF builds a major facility in the Dominican Republic, GFF's initiatives are equally essential.

The Guyanese government has leased a 7.3-acre plot to the GFF for 50 years, reflecting a collaborative effort to promote football. As the GFF prepares for construction, FIFA and CONCACAF have pledged support, recognizing the long-term benefits for the football community.

The GFF is currently landfilling to prepare for construction, initially focusing on mini-pitches to boost community involvement. Forde anticipates moving to the tendering stage by December or January.

The new multi-purpose stadium will accommodate 8,000 to 12,000 spectators and include modern amenities such as accessibility features, locker rooms, medical facilities, and spaces for corporate and community use.

The Blue Water Shipping Stadium aligns with Forde’s vision of supporting professional play and community engagement, positioning it as the future "home of the Pro-League," and demonstrating a commitment to developing football talent in Guyana.

Two-Day Rugby Sevens Tournament Geared Towards Critical Prep for RAN Championships

The Guyana Rugby Football Union is set to host a Sevens tournament this weekend at the National Park, aimed at mentally and physically preparing teams for the upcoming Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Championships.

This tournament is significant as it will determine the top rugby team in Guyana, with the Police Falcons and Panthers each having won three tournaments this year. In addition to the competitive edge, cash and prizes will be awarded, adding extra motivation for the teams.

The event serves as essential preparation for the seven-time RAN Sevens Champions as they gear up for the Senior Men’s and Women’s Sevens Rugby Tournament, scheduled to be hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Union on November 23rd and 24th, 2024, at Larry Gomes Stadium in Arima.

This final tournament of the season is crucial for refining skills and strategies ahead of the international competition.