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During a meeting on Saturday with shrimp farmers from Region Six at the Albion Sports Complex, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha disclosed that phase one of the brackish water shrimp pond programme was approximately 75 percent completed.

He said while the initial project is almost complete, additional farmers have expressed an interest in getting involved in the programme.

“So far, we were able to complete about 75 percent of the ponds. Initially, we had a list of about 80 farmers from Region Six. This was for phase one of the project. We added some additional farmers to the list who will be a part of phase two of the project. When we’ve completed phase one, we’ll start work on the additional ponds,” he explained.

Timely interventions in the sector by the Irfaan Ali-led Administration have resulted in massive increases in brackish water shrimp production.

Before the government’s intervention, shrimp farmers were producing approximately 9,000 kilograms monthly. Farmers are now producing approximately 98,000 kilograms monthly.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha while engaging shrimp farmers from Region SIx (Photo: MoA/ November 2, 2024)

Minister Mustapha said that additional machines were procured to assist with executing the project. He also disclosed that an additional machine will be procured for the project next year.

While noting that the government was investing in the sector and production has increased, Minister Mustapha said that the price for brackish water shrimp has also increased. This, he noted, should not be the case.

“We are investing a lot of money; taxpayers’ money; to develop these ponds but the consumers are not receiving any benefits. Before the project, one bucket of shrimp was being sold for just about $25,000. Now, I’m being told it is being sold for as much as $45,000. This should not be the case and we cannot continue like that. So, this is something we’ll be looking at because we are assisting you but we also need the consumers to benefit from this initiative,” he noted.

In 2023, Guyana earned approximately $1.8 billion from the production of brackish water shrimp due to the government’s heavy focus on increased food production and economic growth. This represents a 49 percent increase when compared to the 548,900 kilograms produced over the same period in 2022.

From January to November 2023, approximately 815,496 kilograms of shrimp were produced. Minister Mustapha stated that the production of brackish water shrimp, which is being conducted along the Corentyne Coast, has continued to produce massive outcomes since its commencement.

He also said that the project will soon commence in Regions Five and Two. He also said that the Vannamei Prawns project has also commenced in Region Five and that the government will soon produce feed and larvae for the industry. This, he explained, will improve the quality and quantity of shrimp being produced (Ministry of Agriculture press release)

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The Courts Optical Pee-Wee Trophy is heading to Region One as Santa Rosa Primary School became the first team from the hinterland to win the Under-11 School Football Championship.

Their thrilling triumph was achieved on Saturday evening when they edged a determined and talented unit from Marian Academy.

Michael Harris scored the decisive goal in the dying minutes of extra time, sending shockwaves of cheers from parents and other supporters at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue.

The young lads continued a strong showing by hinterland teams in recent tournaments by Petra Organisation, as their seniors—Santa Rosa Secondary—won the Milo U-18 tournament in 2023.

In the third-place playoff, St. Pius Primary edged past St. John the Baptist Primary 3-2.

Marian Academy came up just short

Jovanie Wright, Dontay Kowlessar, and Emmanuel Forte scored for St. Pius, while Kareem Welcome and Kriston Chandler netted for St. John the Baptist.

The tournament was a showcase of young talent, with players like Jovanie Wright, Dontay Kowlessar, and Kareme Welcome emerging as top performers.

Santa Rosa’s Linden James was named both MVP and Best Goalkeeper, while their coach, Earl Richard, was recognized as the Best Coach.

The tournament, now in its 11th year, was approved by the Ministry of Education and supported by the National Sports Commission, Stena Drilling, MVP Sports, and Sterling Products Limited.

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Farmers from the Upper Corentyne area will soon commence several projects to bring all available land into productive use, further boosting the region’s production.

Approximately 30,000 acres of land including privately held areas near Moleson Creek in Upper Corentyne were earmarked for infrastructural development for agriculture-related activities.

During a meeting with farmers on Saturday, Agriculture Minister, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha officially formed a committee to manage the implementation of the programme.

Last October, Minister Mustapha accompanied Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo to the Upper Corentyne to meet with farmers to discuss the government’s developmental plans for the area. The Vice President disclosed that the government had allocated $2 billion in the budget for infrastructural development aimed at enhancing land productivity.

While in the region, Minister Mustapha set up the committee which comprises representatives from Coops and private cane farmers in the Upper Corentyne area.

He disclosed that the private cane farmers had approximately 10,000 acres of while the various Coops from the area had varying amounts, totaling approximately 30,000 acres.

He explained that while some farmers indicated that they wanted to recommence cane farming, other farmers expressed interest in other areas.

“Some farmers indicate that they want to go back to cane, some farmers indicated that they want to start planting corn, while some are looking at the other crop that we want to start, like hemp. So, we want to start work as soon as possible. This project is long in the making so I am looking to start from the Upper Corentyne side, Molsen Creek end coming down. Some of the farmers wanted to start back growing cane because, you know, we started to do cane cultivation once again at Skeldon. This year, we will plant 1,500 hectares. By next year we’re looking to plant up to 5,000 hectares, but we have to start the program” he explained.

Three private cane farmers along with representatives of coops from El Dorado, Landless, Leeds Pioneer, Baba Grant, Friendly Farmers, Babylon, Hunter’s Scheme, and Johannesburg were appointed to serve on the committee. Senior officers from the Guyana Rice Development Board, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority, the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute, and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority will also have roles in the committee.
The committee will be chaired by the Ministry’s Director General, Madanlall Ramraj.

Minister Mustapha also established another committee to oversee the operation of various pumps in the region. This committee will be chaired by Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain, and comprises representatives from the Water Users Associations, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, the Guyana Rice Development Board, and local farmers (Ministry of Agriculture press release)

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Once celebrated primarily for its agricultural contributions, the Essequibo Coast—affectionately dubbed “Cinderella County”—is transforming into a burgeoning tourism hotspot.

The shift was highlighted during the launch of Tourism Awareness Month 2024 at the picturesque Mainstay Lake, where regional officials and community members gathered to embrace a new vision for economic growth.

Regional Chairman Vilma Da Silva, who also serves as the president of the Region Two Tourism Association, emphasized the region’s welcoming spirit and the potential for tourism to enhance local livelihoods.

“As you journey from Georgetown and cross the Essequibo River, the tranquility of Region Two envelops you. We are proud of our agricultural heritage, but it’s time to embrace tourism as a significant economic driver,” Da Silva stated.

The theme for this year’s tourism month: ‘A People-Centred Tourism Product: Elevating Our Profile’, captures the essence of a collective effort to showcase what Region Two has to offer.

Da Silva noted that while agriculture remains vital, the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness present unique opportunities for tourism development.

During her speech, Da Silva advocated for a balanced approach that marries agriculture with tourism.

“We are accustomed to a single way of life, but the tide is changing. With the rise of agritourism, visitors can experience the bounty of our organic produce firsthand, enhancing their connection to the land,” she explained.

The region boasts vast agricultural landscapes and several lakes, which are ripe for exploration and leisure activities.

With new investments in infrastructure and accommodations, Da Silva revealed that Region Two is witnessing a surge in tourism interest.

“Our small hotel industry is experiencing a boom, many weekends we are fully booked. This clearly demonstrates the demand for more lodging options,” she shared.

“We must work together as hoteliers, taxi drivers, and boat operators to ensure that visitors feel safe and welcomed. Quality services are essential for our reputation as a tourist destination,” Da Silva urged.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, also spoke at the event, highlighting the growth of tourism in Region Two and the support from authorities.

“Today is a historic day—not only for the launch of Tourism Awareness Month 2024, but because of the energy emanating from the newly formed Association, which is doing phenomenal work,” he remarked.

Baksh underscored the importance of people in the hospitality industry, emphasizing that government initiatives are underway to facilitate investment in local communities.

“We’ve seen immense interest in hospitality training, with over 300 people already signed up,” he noted, indicating a commitment to skill development for a thriving tourism sector.

He also praised the region’s cleanliness and the hospitality shown by local residents.

“The level of hospitality in Region Two is exceptional, and it’s crucial that we maintain the cleanliness of our surroundings,” Baksh added.

As the momentum for tourism in the Essequibo Coast builds, the upcoming month of activities promises to engage locals and visitors alike in celebrating the region’s potential.

Workshops, community events, and training sessions are planned to cultivate skills in the hospitality sector and refine tourism offerings.

Baksh concluded with an optimistic vision, stating, “Together, we can elevate Region Two’s profile as a premier tourism destination, showcasing our unique culture, organic agriculture, and stunning landscapes.”

With the right support, he believes the region has not only immense potential but is also on the path to realizing that potential incrementally.

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New Zealand sealed a historic 3-0 series clean sweep over India with a thrilling 25-run win on day three of the third and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

It is India’s first clean-sweep defeat in a home Test series since South Africa’s 2-0 win in 2000, and their first ever in a series of three Tests or more.

New Zealand had never won a Test series in India and had not won a single Test for 36 years before their eight-wicket win in the series opener in Bengaluru.

“It’s seriously special first of all to win a Test match here at this historic ground, but also to win a series 3-0,” said Black Caps batter Daryl Mitchell, who scored 82 in the first innings.

“It’s something you dream of. To come over here and actually achieve it is pretty special against a world-class Indian team.

“We’re just a bunch of Kiwis taking on the world.”

Chasing 147 for the win, the hosts were skittled out for 121 during the afternoon session, with spinner Ajaz Patel taking 6-57.

India looked on course for an even heavier defeat when they slipped to 29-5, before a punchy half-century from Rishabh Pant gave them hope.

But Pant’s dismissal for 64 shortly after lunch saw New Zealand regain a grip on the match that they never relinquished.

Pant was given not out on the field but the decision was overturned by the TV umpire, who decided after several replays that the ball had brushed his bat before clipping the pad on the way through to wicketkeeper Tom Blundell.

That left India reeling on 106-7 and they added just 15 runs for the final three wickets, with Patel wrapping up the win to end with match figures of 11-160.

New Zealand had begun the day on 171-9 but added just three runs before Patel was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, who took 5-55 to end with match figures of 10-120. (BBC)

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The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) proudly inaugurated the Brava Guyana Open on November 2, 2024, drawing an unprecedented number of golfers from the United States, Canada, Barbados, Trinidad, Fiji, Mexico and Suriname, among other countries.

This event has set a new milestone for the club, reflecting LGC’s growing international reputation and commitment to promoting inclusivity, progress, and empowerment within the sport.

Lusignan Golf Club president, Anasha Ally

In her opening remarks at the preceding evening’s cocktail reception, LGC President Anasha Ally expressed her pride in the club’s achievement and acknowledged the collective dedication that made this event possible.

“This tournament has attracted a record total of 97 participants, and I’d like to express my deepest gratitude to the exceptional team that worked tirelessly to make this event a reality. This achievement is a testament to our club’s commitment to inclusivity, progress, and the empowerment of women in the sport of golf,” Ally noted.

She further emphasised LGC’s core values of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect, urging all members and participants to uphold these principles throughout the event.

The Brava Guyana Open marks the third year of partnership between LGC and Brava, a collaboration that has strengthened the club’s mission and enhanced its stature within the regional golfing community.

Candacy Toney, Brava’s Public Sector Lead

Candacy Toney, Brava’s Public Sector Lead, reaffirmed the company’s support for the tournament and encouraged players to embrace the spirit of competition and camaraderie, saying, “To the players, I encourage you to have fun, and may the best man and woman emerge victorious.”

Also addressing attendees at the reception, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing the Lusignan Golf Club’s facilities and its role in the community.

Ramson outlined plans to provide the club with upgraded equipment to improve the course and mentioned initiatives aimed at integrating the club with the surrounding communities, including a vision to transform LGC into a country club that could offer additional amenities such as restaurants and other sports facilities.

“With the new communities developing in Lusignan, I will do my utmost to merge them with the Lusignan Golf Club, so the club may experience a transformation into a more inclusive and vibrant hub,” Ramson stated, encouraging the LGC to begin preparing for the expected growth in membership.

Defending champion Avinash Persaud in action on the opening day at Lusignan

The opening day of the Brava Guyana Open featured spirited performances from enthusiastic golfers who eagerly took to the course in the spirit of friendly competition.

Feedback from both members and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the club’s welcoming environment and the high standard of the event’s organization.

The Brava Guyana Open will continue throughout the weekend, offering participants a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship.

This record-breaking event is not only a celebration of golf but also a reflection of Lusignan Golf Club’s dedication to fostering a community that values inclusivity, respect, and the shared enjoyment of the sport. (Press Release from the Lusignan Golf Club)

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Police are investigating an alleged robbery and abduction at Marudi, Deep South Rupununi, Region Nine and it is believed that the six masked suspects were Brazilian nationals.

In a statement released on Saturday, Police said the alleged robbery and abduction was carried out by unidentifiable men, all wearing masks and carrying firearms. Four Guyanese and six Brazilians were said to be the victims.

The incident occurred at about 11:00 hrs at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Bush Mouth substation in Marudi.

In a subsequent release Saturday night, Police said five Guyanese and four Brazilians were the victims.

Police probing robbery, abduction of Guyanese & Brazilians in Marudi 

Those victims are: Victor Adams, a 34-year-old Natural Resources Officer of Pattersen Drive, Georgetown; Romain Simon, a 39-year-old Natural Resource Officer of Zeelugt; Christopher Charles, a 17-year-old Barber of Lethem Central, Rupununi; Curtis Charles, a 35-year-old Lieutenant of the Guyana Defence Force and resident of the Diamond Housing Scheme; Karl Antone, a 30-year-old Community Mines Ranger of Aishalton Village, South Rupununi; Benedict John, a 28-year-old Caretaker of Karaudanau Village, South Rupununi; Dionei Farias De Brito, a 29 years General Manager of Boa Vista, Brazil; and Eduardo Moreira Freitas, a 22-year-old operator of Boa Vista Brazil.

“… six masked males who appeared to be Brazilian nationals judging by their Portuguese accent, armed with rifles, ambushed the victims from strategic points at the GGMC checkpoint, located at Bush Mouth Marudi,” Police said.

The victims were heading to Marudi Backdam but stopped at the GGMC gate to check-in.

A quantity of raw gold, two Glock pistols and a Mavodo watch worth $140,000 were taken.

Police said members of the Joint Services are on the ground combing the area for the suspects as investigations continue.

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In sizzling heat on Saturday, the Caribbean Elite/Under-23 Cycling Championship pedalled off in Georgetown, signalling the start of intense rivalry among approximately 100 riders from 19 countries affiliated to the Caribbean Cycling Union and the Pan American Cycling Confederation.

Though no Guyanese managed a podium spot at the Individual Time Trial around the Mandela/Eccles/Heroes Highway, it was a success for Guyana as a cycling nation, playing host to the prestigious event for the first time.

Click here to view photos 

Copping gold in the Individual Time Trial were Conor White of Bermuda in the Elite Men’s category; Berenice Paul of Guadeloupe in the Elite Women; Christopher Morales of Puerto Rico in the Men’s Under-23; and Daimelyn Quezada of Cuba in the Women’s Under-23.

From left: Guyanese Briton John, Denise Jeffrey and Aaron Newton competed in the Time Trial (Photos: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/November 2, 2024)

Guyanese Briton John and Denise Jeffrey finished fifth in the Elite Men and Elite Women respectively, while compatriot Aaron Newton did not finish the Men’s Under-23 event.

Click here to view full Time Trial results

Below are the summarized results

The championship will wrap up with the Elite and Under-23 Men and Women Road Race on Sunday.

Click here to see full list of starters for each category 

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A spectacular maiden one-day international century from stand-in captain Liam Livingstone helped England defeat West Indies by five wickets and take the three-match series to a decider.

Chasing a formidable 329 to win in Antigua, Livingstone’s 124 from 85 balls saw the tourists home with 15 balls to spare.

Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell had hit half-centuries before the captain and Sam Curran’s resilient fifth-wicket partnership left England needing 100 runs from the last 10 overs.

Livingstone brought up his fifty in 60 balls before accelerating to bring up three figures just 17 balls later.

Earlier, Windies captain Shai Hope had scored 117 from 127 balls to help the hosts rebuild after losing both openers early.

Hope was ably supported by Keacy Carty (71) and Sherfane Rutherford (54).

It means the series will be decided in the third and final ODI in Barbados on Wednesday.

Sam Curran played a crucial hand in a match-winning partnership (Photo: Getty Images)

England skipper leads from the front

Questions would have been asked of Livingstone if England had lost a second game in a row under his captaincy.

The stand-in skipper used nine bowlers in the West Indies innings without managing to stem the flow of runs and, perhaps surprisingly, failed to use the full 10 overs from his most experienced fast bowler, Jofra Archer.

But he more than made up for it with the bat as his unbeaten 124 from 85 balls guided England to an improbable win.

Livingstone joined Bethell in the middle with his side 107-3 in the 21st over. When his young batting partner departed for 55, the Lancashire all-rounder took full control.

Soon after reaching his half-century, he hit three consecutive sixes off Gudakesh Motie.

Livingstone only need 17 balls more to complete his century, with Curran fitting nicely into his slipstream with a run-a-ball 52.

After Curran departed in the 46th over, the 31-year-old hit debutant Shamar Joseph for three sixes and a four in the following over to ease any nerves in a young side which had lost 12 of their previous 18 matches in this format.

Sherfane Rutherford made his fourth consecutive ODI fifty (Photo: Getty Images)

Hope’s dazzling century not enough

It was a masterful captain’s innings from Hope that put the Windies in a commanding position at the halfway stage, despite losing the toss.

Coming in after John Turner sent back the West Indies openers, the Barbadian oversaw a rebuilding job with Carty which swung the momentum firmly back in the host’s favour.

Despite a wicket offering movement for the bowlers and a slow outfield, Hope made a blistering start, hitting Turner and Adil Rashid for sixes early on before exercising restraint to keep the scoreboard ticking.

While Carty was dropped twice, Hope offered just one chance for England on 60 when he nicked Bethell, only for wicketkeeper Salt to drop it.

After the early fireworks, he next took the aerial route in the 23rd over to bring up his half-century from 66 balls and his team’s 100, sending Bethell over the mid-wicket boundary.

The 30-year-old targeted the England spinners and brought up his 17th ODI ton in 118 balls while Rutherford added a rapid 54 from 36 balls to build on his captain’s innings.

But Livingstone eclipsed Hope’s effort to lead England to a victory that sets up an intriguing decider. (BBC)

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The Guyana Police Force on Saturday afternoon said it is investigating an alleged robbery under arms and abduction of a group of Guyanese and Brazilians at Marudi, Deep South Rupununi, Region Nine.

According to a Police statement, the alleged robbery and abduction was carried out by unidentifiable men, all wearing masks and carrying firearms. Four Guyanese and six Brazilians were said to be the victims.

The incident occurred at about 11:00 hrs at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Bush Mouth substation in Marudi.

“A Joint Services team on the ground pursued the suspects who abandoned their vehicle with the persons abducted, all of whom were rescued unharmed,” the statement noted.

Police said additional details will be provided in a subsequent report.

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