October 2019 \ Guyana Diaspora Digest Magazine SPOR IA A D

digest

JetBlue confirms 2020 flight to Guyana March 2, 2020 Qatar Airways to fly to Guyana Soon Oil Finds is E-Day in Guyana’s waters

Foreign Minister tells Guyanese to be patriots

A Publication of the Department of Public Information @dpiguyana 2 Diaspora Digest 3 CONTENTS

4 March 2, 2020 is E-Day 29 Georgetown Mayor and City Council

6 Jet Blue confirms 2020 flights to Guyana 30 My Turn - Hon. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo 8 Liza Destiny marks new beginning for Guyana 32 Sod turned for new 1823 Monument at Parade 12 Qatar Airways to fly to Guyana soon Ground

14 Foreign affairs minister tells Guyanese to be 34 Govt activates National Emergency Operations patriots Centre as high tide pound coastal Guyana

17 $250MILLION Children and Family Care Centre 36 Everybody’s connected! - child advocacy centre for all capital towns 38 Education and National Development 18 Recent Diaspora conferences, engagements - Minister Jordan at the IDB’s 60th 42 Indigenous leaders meet for annual conference anniversary celebration - Guyana's Public Health Minister elected 44 'Off to a bright start' Vice-Chair of WHO Executive Board - Guyana-Suriname Ferry service back in business 20 New helicopter taxiway commissioned at Ogle airport 46 Massive Massy Mega opens at Turkeyen

22 Creation of four new towns 49 PM Modi met with the leaders of CARICOM at the UNGA 26 New runwaty for Lethem Airport 50 Guyanese return home from hurricane-ravaged 27 Editorial Bahamas

28 Government of Guyana 52 Guyana continues the strengthen its diplomatic relations globally 4 Diaspora Digest 5

MARCH 2, 2020 IS E-DAY

resident David Granger on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 issued two procla- Pmations for the holding of Gener- al and Regional Elections on Monday, 2nd March 2020. The President, by the power vested in him by Article 61 of the Constitution of Guyana, to by proclamation, appoint the day for an elec- tion under Article 60 (2) , appointed 2nd March 2020 as the day on which an election of mem- bers of the National Assembly shall be held. The Constitution at Article 61 states: “An election of members of the National Assem- bly under Article 60 (2) shall be held on such day within three months after every dissolu- tion of Parliament as the President shall ap- point by proclamation.” Similarly, President Granger proclaimed 2nd March, 2020, the same day as appoint- ed under Article 61 of the Constitution for the holding of elections of members of the National Assembly, as the day on which elec- tions of members of the Regional Democratic Councils shall be held. Flashback, March 16, 2015, His Excellency, President David Granger and Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Article 73 (2) of the Constitution states: Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo acknowledges supporters Nagamootoo and his wife, Mrs. Sita “Elections of members of regional demo- converged at Public Buildings to witness the president his Oath of Office. Nagamootoo proudly display their inked cratic councils shall be held and the councils fingers after voting at the 2018 LGE shall be dissolved at such times as, subject to Minister of Social Protection, Hon. Minister of Public Telecommunications, Hon. Catherine Hughes after casting her paragraph (3), the President may appoint by Amna Ally casting his ballot at the last local government election ballot at the 2018 LGE proclamation.” President Granger on 25th September Minister of Public Health, Hon Volda 2019, in his address to the nation, had an- Lawrence casting her ballot at the nounced that after discussions with Chair- last local government election man of the Elections Commission and with his Cabinet, the earliest possible date for the holding of General and Regional Elections will be on Monday, 2nd March 2020. The President’s statement followed Chair- man of the Elections Commission Justice Claudette Singh’s missive to him on 19th Sep- tember 2019, indicating that “the Guyana Elec- tions Commission will be able to deliver credi- ble elections by the end of February 2020”. The Head of State met Justice Singh on 25th September, and discussed the statutory timelines for the upcoming General and Re- gional Elections.  6 Diaspora Digest 7 JetBlue confirms 2020 flights to Guyana

uyana is on the verge of adding yet JetBlue’s A321neo aircraft will be sued to another major airline to cement the establish its services in Guyana. It is said to Gconnection with North America. This be 20% more fuel-efficient and can support comes as JetBlue officially announced the longer-range flights. expansion of its non-stop services that will “Inside the aircraft, JetBlue’s award-win- commence April 2, 2020, between Guyana to ning comfort and connectivity will be the New York. focus of the onboard customer experience. According to JetBlue’s blue media web- The A321neo will feature the Collins Meridi- site, Director of Route Planning, Andrea Lus- an seat – which is the widest seat available so mentioned, “Guyana service introduces a for the single-aisle Airbus family of aircraft diverse and underserved destination to the – with enhanced cushion comfort, adjustable JetBlue route map which will benefit both headrests, power connections at every seat leisure travellers, as well as those visiting and the most legroom in coach (b). Inflight friends and relatives.” To this end, the airline entertainment will be powered by Thales said it will be introducing, “a new, low fare AVANT and ViaSat-2 connectivity. With this high-quality choice to travellers in Guyana.” system – featuring 10.1 inch, 1080P high defi- BONUS CONTENT Minister of Public Infrastructure, Hon. Da- nition screens, more than 100 channels of live CLICK TO PLAY vid Patterson welcomed JetBlue’s decision to television with DVR-like pause and rewind enter the Guyana market. “The introduction functionality, picture-in-picture function and Jetblue to non-stop of this immensely popular low-cost carrier more – JetBlue will offer customers expanded will see lower ticket prices to Georgetown entertainment choices in nearly every region services operation in 2020 and provide travellers with an opportunity to the airline flies (c). JetBlue is the only ma- fly on an airline of choice to their favourite jor U.S. airline with seatback entertainment destination. This agreement with JetBlue is screens at every seat on every aircraft,” Jet- timely and comes on the heels of continued Blue media continued. and sustainable growth in several sectors At present, American Airlines, Caribbe- of our economy, including, service, tourism, an Airlines and COPA Airlines operate Guy- mining and oil and gas,” Minister Patterson ana-US route.  stated. Images: JetBlue

Schedule between New York (JFK) and Georgetown (GEO)

JFK - GEO Flight #1965 GEO - JFK Flight #1966 11:55 p.m. – 5:58 a.m. (+1) 7:20 a.m. – 1:09 p.m. 8 Diaspora Digest 9 Liza Destiny marks new beginning for Guyana

By Anara Khan

“I would like to hope for the Liza Destiny, the partners and the BONUS CONTENT crew, that it will bring us all the good things we anticipate, CLICK TO PLAY not only the profits or return of investment for Exxon and its Liza Destiny partners, but also for the people of Guyana and in particular our officially welcomed children, a better quality of life, sustainable development and HOME STAY everything from which good oil will flow.”

This was the view expressed by First Lady, H.E Sandra Granger who was bestowed the honour of being the Godmother of Guyana’s First Lady, H.E Sandra Granger, who was bestowed the honour of first Floating, Production, Storage and Off- being the Godmother of Guyana’s loading vessel (FPSO). She was at the time de- first Floating, Production, Storage livering remarks at a reception hosted at the and Offloading vessel (FPSO). Guyana Marriott Hotel to mark the arrival of the vessel and the final round of preparations for oil production, now just months away. https://youtu.be/GHU3b0S_TCU Along with its arrival, the 120,000 bpd Liza A section of Guyana's first Floating, Destiny FPSO has brought with it good tid- Production, Storage and Offloading ings, hope and an opportunity for a brighter (FPSO) vessel, the Liza Destiny future for Guyana, Director of the country’s Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe, add- ed. He said the historic arrival of the country’s first floating oil production complex, “heralds a tide of good fortunes which we must ap- preciate for both the magnificent engineer- ing feat that [it] presents and the flood of opportunities and possibilities it presents for Guyana and Guyanese.” “These revenues [from oil production] can be used to help our country to ultimately be transformed positively from an economic de-

Continued on page 12 10 Diaspora Digest 11

dan. The officials also hosted a symbolic flag tunity to interact with some of their country- raising ceremony on board, with Sergeant men currently working on the FPSO. Randell Williams, of the Guyana Defence The Liza Destiny arrived in Guyana from Force (GDF) hoisting the Golden Arrowhead. Singapore on August 29, 2019 after being During the tour of the facility, the Guya- converted from a Very Large Crude Carrier nese delegation was also afforded the oppor- (VLCC) tanker ‘Tina’ to its present state. The vessel is twice the length of the Provi- dence Stadium; half the width of the George- town Cricket Ground; has the depth of the BONUS CONTENT Kingston Lighthouse and the capacity to CLICK TO PLAY store some 1.6 million barrels of oil. This FPSO is a significant component of the Liza Phase 1 development which involves Liza Destiny is here! four undersea drill centers with 17 production wells. During normal operations, there will be at least 80 persons living and working on board the vessel. 

Country Manager of Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Rod Henson.

First Lady, Sandra Granger, Minister of State, Hon. Dawn Hastings- Williams and Director, Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe and this ExxonMobil official during a tour of the Liza Destiny. Liza Destiny marks First Lady, H.E Sandra Granger, who was bestowed the honour of Director of the Department of being the Godmother of Guyana’s Energy (DE), Dr. Mark Byone. first Floating, Production, Storage new beginning for Guyana and Offloading vessel (FPSO).

FACTS ABOUT LIZA DESTINY From page 11 as well as all those Guyanese agencies who tion vessel, has finally arrived in the country helped to create this moment and this oppor- after travelling nearly 11,000 nautical miles 1. It is 334 meters long, or velopment perspective. It is imperative that tunity,” he said. for 42 days from the Keppel Shipyard in Sin- the length of more than as Guyanese we begin to appreciate that the ExxonMobil Guyana Country Manager, Mr. gapore. direct and the indirect benefits that emanate Rod Henson expressed similar sentiments. three soccer fields. from this sector go far beyond anything that “We have so much to celebrate and a Prior to the reception, a high-level Guy- 2. It is 58 meters wide, or we have seen thus far… The Department of bright path ahead of us and I believe this anese delegation visited the country’s first Energy is bullish on ensuring that we extract partnership has its best and most productive Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading half of a cricket field. the best value for our people,” he emphasized. decades ahead. I had the privilege 0f becom- Vessel to get a first-hand look at the facili- Dr. Bynoe said Guyana’s future is bright ing the President of ExxonMobil’s Guyana af- ty that will be producing the country’s first 3. At 31 meters, its depth and has many prospects in store for young, filiate here in 2017 and since then, I’ve come barrel of oil. matches the length industrious and innovative minds. to know many people in Guyana well and I The team, comprising First Lady, Grang- of the Georgetown “We welcome Liza Destiny, our first FPSO truly value the relationships I’ve formed here. er, Dr Bynoe and Rod Henson, also included Lighthouse in Guyana’s to her home Guyana, along with her crew They make me optimistic for the future of this the Guyana Government’s Ministers of State, capital. and staff. We congratulate ExxonMobil, Hess, unique and beautiful country,” he said. Dawn Hastings-Williams, Natural Resources, CNOCC and all its contractors and partners The Liza Destiny, Guyana’s first oil produc- Raphael Trotman and Finance, Winston Jor- 12 Diaspora Digest 13

to fly to qatar airways Guyana soon

he Civil Aviation Authorities of Guy- Qatar Airways Company is the state- ana and Qatar have signed an air owned flag carrier of Qatar. The airline oper- Tservice agreement - a move express- ates a hub-and-spoke network, linking over ing the continued confidence in this country’s 150 international destinations across Africa, be issued free-of-charge at the port of entry, signalling interest in the Guyanese flight current and projected economy. Central Asia, Europe, Far East, South Asia, upon presentation of a valid passport with a markets, while current operators have in- The agreement was signed in that coun- Middle East, North America, South America minimum validity of six months and a con- creased the number of weekly flights to other try by Director-General of the Guyana Civil and Oceania from its base at Hamad Interna- firmed onward or return ticket. destinations. Aviation Authority (GCCA), Egbert Field and tional Airport, using a fleet of more than 200 In November 2016, Qatar introduced a Early in the year, Guyana entered into an the Chairman Qatar Civil Aviation Authori- aircraft. free transit visa, which allows passengers air services agreement with New Zealand, ty (CAA), Abdulla bin Nasser Turki Al Subaey. Back in 2017, QATAR Tourism Authority of all nationalities transiting in Qatar for a which enables both nations to conduct inter- Minister of Transport and Communications, (QTA) and Qatar Airways had announced that minimum of five hours to stay in Qatar for national air transportation following a mutu- H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti and Chairman of that country would immediately be allowed up to 96 hours (four days). In May 2017, QTA ally crafted framework for operation. the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) visa-free entry for citizens of 80 countries, launched +Qatar, an initiative to promote the Late last year, Guyana also inked a historic Board, Lawrence London witnessed the ink- including Guyana. country as a stopover destination, with the bilateral air service agreement which pro- ing of the agreement on behalf of the two Citizens of those countries wishing to vis- national carrier, Qatar Airways. motes air transport connectivity and collab- countries. it Qatar will no longer need to apply or pay Other airline companies have also been oration in numerous areas such as oil and gas. According to Guyana’s Civil Aviation Au- for a visa; instead, a multi-entry waiver will Last December, American Airlines com- thority (GCAA), the agreement will permit menced operations in Guyana, one of its 19 Qatar’s national carrier 'Qatar Airways' to destinations across South America. BONUS CONTENT operate passenger and cargo flights, as well Minister of Transport and Copa Airlines also added another flight to CLICK TO PLAY as cooperation between the carriers con- Communications, H.E Jassim bin its Guyana-Panama route with onward con- Saif Al Sulaiti, and Chairman of the cerned. It will also permit Qatar Airways to nections effective since December. Copa op- Guyana Civil Aviation Authority have an operation centre in Guyana to fly to Qatar Airways erates the additional flight on Fridays, adding (GCAA) Board, Lawrence London, any country in the region and other regions to existing flights on Saturday, Sunday, Tues- witnessing the signing of the is coming as well. agreement day and Wednesday.  14 Diaspora Digest 15

States reduces funding for development and tical of the country’s progress and prospects.” foreign affairs the achievement of the SDGs. As a small de- “When you see local and international ac- veloping country, Guyana remains concerned tors behaving in a particular way, you must about this diversion of economic resources understand what is inspiring them. In return, to the maintenance of nuclear weapons and as never before we must be strong in our minister tells Guyanese modernization of nuclear weapon stockpiles defence of Guyana. Be informed. Avoid fake and their delivery systems. These resources news. Be vigilant, be involved. We must be could be better invested in the economic and patriots as never before. Don’t give way to to be patriots social development of our peoples” scepticism, or tribalism, but rise above these challenges that would detract from the jour- Briefings from the United Nations Guyanese urged to be ney of destiny on which we embark,” Minister Cummings told the diaspora at the Medgar strong in defense of their General Assembly 2019 Evers College, in Brooklyn. ing Member States of the Organisation of home country She said the transformation that has tak- Islamic Corporation (OIC), at its Annual Coor- On evening of the September 26th, ad- en been sweeping across Guyana since the dination Meeting (ACM) at the UNGA. Minister of Foreign Affairs, the dressing a sizeable crowd of overseas-based coalition took office, will be significantly- ac The OIC is the second largest inter-gov- s world leaders gathered in New free of nuclear weapons during her address Hon. Karen Cummings delivering Guyanese on the sidelines of the UNGA, Min- celerated as the nation benefits from the lu- ernmental organisation after the United Na- York for the 74th session of the to a High-Level Plenary Meeting to Com- remarks at the High-Level Plenary ister Cummings said the oil boom about to crative rewards of the vast natural resources. tions, with the membership of 57 states, is Meeting to Commemorate and AUnited Nations General Assem- memorate and Promote the International Day flood Guyana is causing many internal and The minister said Guyana is on the rise, the collective voice of the Muslim world to Promote the International Day bly (UNGA), September 24 to 30, Guyana’s for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, external forces to become “envious and scep- and for the nation to achieve its full potential, ensure and safeguard their interest on eco- for Total Elimination of Nuclear Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Dr. Karen at the UNGA. The meeting allows the Member it must have leadership that is accountable, nomic, social and political areas. Weapons Cummings was in attendance and addressed States, observers and civil society to have a fair, transparent and responsible. Minister Cumming reminded that Guyana, several of the forums on issue ranging from frank debate on an issue that poses an exis- She said Guyanese will witness a new and since 1966, has spared no effort in striving climate change to possible armed conflict. tential threat to the security of people and of the CARICOM Member States including prosperous Guyana. One where their children to defend its territorial integrity against the While there, Minister Cumming was also able the planet, given the indiscriminate and un- Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Grenada, Hai- and grandchildren will enjoy into the future. spurious claim by neighbouring Venezuela. to clear up several misconceptions being ped- paralleled destruction that nuclear weapons ti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, In that vein, she urged that the diaspora to The Spanish speaking nation continues to dled by the opposition about the country’s can cause. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trini- “continue your strong and unwavering sup- claim over two-thirds of this country, com- state of affairs. Dr. Cummings told the forum that Guyana dad and Tobago at a regional meeting of ex- port of the APNU/AFC coalition and let pros- pletely disregarding the validity of the 1899 has always taken a progressive approach to perts to discuss the Treaty on the Prohibition perity, development, unity and harmony con- Arbitral Award which settled the land bound- Guyana committed to the elimination of nuclear weapons and is a of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) from a regional tinue.” ary of the two countries. State party to all of the major international perspective and to assess its prospects for Minister Cummings reminded that the co- a world free of nuclear "This matter is now before the Interna- legal instruments that together encompass advancing nuclear disarmament, global secu- alition stands ready to contest the next gen- tional Court of Justice and Guyana welcomes weapons the nuclear disarmament and non-prolifera- rity and humanitarian norms, while canvass- eral and regional elections after a “clean list” the prospect of a final and binding decision On September 25th, Minister Cummings tion regime. ing progress toward its entry into force. is established. The Guyanese people, she said by the Court that will definitively resolve this recommitted Guyana’s position to a world Guyana recently hosted representatives The Foreign Affairs Minister reiterated will be the judge after all that has taken place longstanding controversy," Minister Cum- that Guyana will continue its active engage- over the last four years under the leadership mings related. ment in the negotiating process that resulted of His Excellency President David Granger. in the adoption in 2017 of the TPNW, which is She told the diaspora that they have an All hands-on deck to the first legally binding international instru- important role to play. “As Guyanese living ment for the prohibition of nuclear weapons. here in the US, many of you have a great in- counter climate change “We possess no nuclear weapons nor do terest in what is taking place in Guyana. I rec- On the 28th, Minister Cummings add- we claim to be protected from them by the ognized that all of you want to see Guyana ed Guyana’s s voice to calls at the UNGA for nuclear weapons of an ally. This is consis- live up to its potential so that your relatives measures to mitigate the gruelling impact of tent with our full compliance with the pro- back home can enjoy the good life” climate change and the vulnerability under hibitions contained in Article 1 of the TPNW, She said the Guyanese diaspora around which many countries find themselves. which aims to transform the regional norm the world is motivated by several factors. She During the General Debate, Minister Cum- of the Caribbean against the possession of saluted their unfailing efforts to give back to mings underscored the existential threat nuclear weapons into a global norm. The ap- the country they once called home. posed by climate change and the demand for proximately US$2 trillion in current expendi- the urgent efforts of all actors. ture on nuclear weapons by nuclear-weapon Calls for safeguarding of The Minister noted that Guyana is one such vulnerable country and fully under- territorial integrity stands the risks posed by climate change Minister of Foreign Affairs, On the 27th, Minister Cummings sounded Hon. Dr. Karen Cummings a call for countries to safeguard their sover- delivering OIC Statement eignty and territorial integrity while address- 16 Diaspora Digest 17 foreign affairs minister tells Guyanese to be patriots

$250MILLION Children and Family Care Centre - child advocacy centre for all capital towns

His, Excellency, President David By Alexis Rodney ident Granger noted. Granger and Minister of Social He underscored the significance of Guy- Protection, Hon. Amna Ally assist in His Excellency, President David Granger ana’s constitution and the provision it makes cutting the ribbon to commission said every child in Guyana is entitled to en- for the safeguarding of the children. the centre. joy their childhood, noting that the country’s “We are making progress in ensuring From page 15 cohesion and laying the foundation for the Ambassador Rudolph M. Ten- constitution provides for the protection of all. a better future for our children. We are involvement of every citizen in sustaining a Pow, permanent representative The Head of State made the declaration strengthening childcare and protection; we school and be enrolled in a daycare if they since it experiences damages to its coastal low-carbon trajectory of growth that is in- to the UN, Consul General to New have not attained school age. Parents will zone, frequency of flooding in the hinterland, clusive, diversified and climate-resilient,” she York, Barbara Atherly, Dr. Karen moments before he officially opened the first are working to reunite families. We must con- be required to work, attend job training pro- and extreme meteorological events. “Guyana relayed. Cummings, and Ambassador to Children and Family Care Centre, in Sophia tinue on this path; we must continue to move grammes, seek housing and employment and ranks highly among countries most vulnera- However, beyond merely responding as the US, Riyad Insanally, after the Georgetown, Region 4. forward to years ahead,” he said. attend social service appointments. ble to natural disasters and this compels ur- an affected country, Guyana has long com- Brooklyn town hall meeting on The $250MILLION facility is the brainchild The Head of State’s vision is for the estab- Sept. 26, at Medgar Evers College. While the facility is there to assist vulner- gency on our part to institute adaptation and mitted to exercising leadership in pursuing of the Ministry of Social Protection and is be- lishment of child advocacy centres in all ten able families, the aim is also to encourage disaster risk reduction measures,” she stated. actions to help mitigate anthropogenic cli- ing dubbed a “safe haven” for vulnerable and administrative regions of Guyana. at-risk children and their families. The spanking new facility is a huge independence and self-sufficiency through In this regard, the minister reported that mate change. norms and the rule of law and the respect for “Every child deserves a happy childhood achievement for the Ministry of Social Pro- empowerment. The centre will, therefore, the country is pursuing transformative action “Our experience has shown that wheth- the rights and freedom of all citizens. “Here and we the adults have a collective duty to tection. Subject minister, the Hon Amna Ally accommodate families for three months or to secure its advance as a modern, cohesive er in combating climate impacts, expanding again, it is evident that they consider all the support children’s enjoyment of that right,” explained that the 24-hour service centre longer, before the families move on. and prosperous state, including through the economic benefits or consolidating demo- progress realized under the Coalition govern- the Head of State said. can hold some 80 children. It also has eight Minister Ally too believes that children implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sus- cratic norms extreme vigilance is required to ment cannot be taken for granted,” she told Ensuring that right, he said also means self-contained apartments for families who grow best in families. “Many children are be- tainable Development and the SDGs. “Guy- safeguard hard-earned and cherished gains. the meeting. allowing children to be in the comfort of their may need temporary shelter. ing brought away from their families because ana has incorporated the Agenda into our Indeed, they must be attended with great While at the UNGA, Minister Cumming homes and growing up with their own families. “The centre will be a sanctuary and the of poverty, not because they are unloved or national development strategy – the Green care to avoid reversals.” also met with the United Nations Secre- “Children are nurtured best in a home, first stop for vulnerable children. It will offer unwanted. At the ministry, we believe chil- State Development Strategy (GSDS): Vision Meanwhile, Minister Cummings also pre- tary-General António Guterres and Common- rather than an institution, even an excellent an alternative to caregivers, at risk for aban- dren grow best in families and so we fight 2040. The Green State Development Strate- sented Guyana’s strong record of achieve- wealth Secretary-General Baroness Patricia institution like this. A happy home is essential doning or placing their child in residential every day to help families go from barely sur- gy is Guyana’s road map to becoming a ‘green ments at the national and international lev- Scotland. She related that the officials have for children’s development. The family holds care,” she explained. viving to thriving.”  state’. It emphasises the protection of our en- els. She reported that significant progress offered their assistance to Guyana in prepa- the primary responsibility for the protection According to Minister Ally, children liv- vironment, enhancing prosperity and social has been made in consolidating democratic ration for elections.  of their offspring and their upbringing,” Pres- ing in the institution are expected to attend Images: Marceano Narine 18 Diaspora Digest 19

Recent Diaspora conferences, engagements

Several Minister were out of country recently representing the country at various international forums and conferences. Among them were Minister of Finance, Hon. Winston Jordan and Minister of Public Health, Hon. Volda Lawrence.

Minister Jordan at the IDB’s 60th anniversary celebration (from right): DCMO Dr. Karen Gordon Campbell, Public Health Minister, Hon. Volda Lawrence, PAHO Director Dr. Carissa Etienne Minister of Finance, Hon. Winston and a PAHO official Jordan delivering remarks at the he Inter-American Development devastating impacts of climate change are IDB's 60th anniversary. Bank celebrated its 60th anniversa- our response instruments and offerings suf- Try in Washington DC, with a series of ficient? Especially to the smaller, poorer and events featuring heads of state and leaders more vulnerable countries of the Bank that that underpin the fundamentals and strate- Guyana's Public Health Minister elected from the public and private sectors. are unable to take on additional debt burdens gic focus of the Bank," he stated. Vice-Chair of WHO Executive Board The Sixtieth Anniversary Celebration of during a time of crisis," he told the gathering. While he saluted the many achievements the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Minister Jordan suggested a further re- of the bank in assisting governments across took place on September 26-28, and includ- vision of policies and instruments related to the region in building climate-resilient infra- of the Commission on Equity and Health In- ed a session with heads of state, a dialogue disaster response. As an institution with in- structure, establishing robust fiscal frame- equalities in the Americas’ and ‘Addressing Gen- of IDB Governors (the maximum authorities traregional integration as a cornerstone of works, mobilizing resources to meet develop- der-Based Violence (GBV) in the Americas’. of the IDB, comprised typically of ministers its work, he questioned if it offers regional in- mental objectives, he said its approach must The Guyana Public Health Minister also of finance and presidents of central banks), struments that would allow for the develop- be two-pronged. "On one hand, the bank made a presentation on ‘Multi-sector Col- a private-sector summit, and other thematic ment of inter-country and regional projects. must assist countries in their quest to digi- inister of Public Health, Hon. authorities from North, South and Central laboration to prevent and respond to Gen- seminars. "Perhaps, it is time to consider Regional talize their economies, participate on global Volda Lawrence was elected America as well as the Caribbean seeking der-Based Violence (GBV) in Guyana’, during Guyana’s Minister of Finance, Hon. Win- instruments. As the fourth industrial revo- markets, and become competitive in key in- MVice-Chair of the global World agreement on regional strategies and plans which she took advantage of the opportuni- ston Jordan addressed one of the thematic lution transpires, regional challenges are re- dustries. On the other hand, it is critical that Health Organisation (WHO) Executive Board that address their common and most press- ty to highlight the Government of Guyana’s sessions on September 22. He noted that the inforced. Whilst technology offers much-re- the bank to remain sincere to its mantra of during the 71st Session of the Regional Com- ing health challenges. These include a plan to efforts to implement several measures, in- evolution of the IDB over the years has added quired solutions, it deepens concerns about improving lives by ensuring that the Region’s mittee. reduce heart disease by eliminating industri- cluding the Spotlight Initiative which targets enormous value to the lives of the people of resources to equip a country’s human capital most poor and vulnerable populations are Minister Lawrence headed Guyana’s del- ally produced trans-fatty acids, a strategy to women and girls affected by GBV to help im- the Latin American and Caribbean. to thrive in this emerging environment and reached and adequately catered to through egation to the 57th Directing Council of the make access to organ, tissue and cell trans- prove their overall health and well-being. However, he pointed out that for the bank the agility of poorer countries to adjust and its operations." Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) plants more equitable, and a plan to improve At the 37th Meeting of the Council on to remain relevant, it must undergo pragmat- adapt at a rapid pace, whilst dealing with To remain a development giant in these meeting and 71st Session of the Regional the quality of care in health services delivery. Human and Social Development (COHSOD), ic reforms that would further align its strat- other competing and pressing development uncertain times, Minister Jordan said the IDB Committee of the World Health Organization The Guyana delegation which also includ- which preceded the PAHO/WHO meetings, egies, policies and offerings to the require- matters. Do offerings under the two main must strengthen its institution by ensuring (WHO) for the Americas. ed Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Karen on September 28- 29, also held in Washing- ments of non-borrowing member countries arms of the Bank incentivize the thrust to- that undergirding policies are sound; the de- The high-level meeting was held in Wash- Gordon-Campbell also participated in sever- ton, DC, Guyana’s DCMO, Dr. Karen Gordon– and the needs of its borrowing constituents. wards bridging the technological divide be- velopment effectiveness framework is robust ington, DC, from September 30 to October 4. al events on the margins of the PAHO/WHO Campbell was also nominated to serve as the "Moving forward, as an institution, we tween developed and less developed coun- and information on success stories demon- Participants included Health ministers and programme including discussions on ‘Re- CARICOM representative on the board of the must dissect and introspect and ask our- tries? Perhaps, it may be time to consider a strating tangible results are widely distrib- other high-level delegates from the Americas. sponse to Ageing Societies’; ‘Mental Health Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and selves some difficult questions, such as the different approach to financing operations uted.  The week-long meeting saw the top health in the Americas’; the Launch of the ‘Report AIDS (UNAIDS).  20 Diaspora Digest 21

New Helicopter taxiway

commissioned at Ogle - taxiway facts - 1. A taxiway is a path on an airport connecting runways with ramps, hangars, terminals and other facilities. They mostly have hard surface such as asphalt or concrete, although smaller airports sometimes use gravel or grass. 2. Busy airports typically construct high-speed or rapid-exit taxiways in order to allow aircraft By Shaquille Bourne metres width, Runway Foxtrot will bear Pave- “There is a commitment the CEO and Pano Taxiway Foxtrot at Eugene ing one of the busiest in the Caribbean region. to leave the runway ment Classification Number 16-R/B/X/T and Board [of Ogle Airport Incorporated] that F. Correia International Airport. The GCAA head welcomed the taxiway’s n what it calls its efforts to, “meet the will be capable of accommodating LIAT’s ATR they want this committee [established] and I construction since it will not only alleviate at higher speeds. This requirements of Guyana’s fast-moving 72 aircraft, the largest aircraft that operates can say here today that this committee will traffic congestion at the airport that most- allows the aircraft to from the International Civil Aviation Organi- oil and gas industry,” Eugene F. Correia at the airport. be constituted in the shortest space of time,” ly occurs within the morning hours but assist vacate the runway I sation (ICAO) will travel to Guyana to assess International Airport has commissioned a During his address, Minister within the Minister Sharma stated. Guyana as its aviation sector continues to grow. the operations of the airport, including its air quicker, permitting $70M taxiway that took 5 months to be con- Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Hon. Jaipaul Additionally, the Guyana Civil Aviation Moreover, DG Field acknowledged receipt traffic accommodation. another to land or structed. Sharma commended the efforts of the opera- Authority (GCAA), which is the aviation sec- of the airports 5-year developmental plan Director-General Field explained that this depart in a shorter space At the small commissioning ceremony tors that have begun construction of helicop- tor’s regulatory body, was represented by its that has line items such as the widening and comes after GCAA would have reached out to on the taxiway, Kit Nacimento delivered the ter aprons to facilitate services at the airport Director-General, Col. Edbert Field who men- an increase of taxiways and increase in solar of time. ICAO for assistance in light of the airport be- airport’s CEO, Anthony Mekdeci’s, written re- since the new taxiway is completed. These tioned that starting in October, an official power. This, DG said, allows the GCAA to keep marks. The CEO noted that the new Taxiway include Air Services Limited, Trans Guyana abreast with the developments in the avia- Foxtrot will connect the existing Taxiway Bra- Airways and Jags Aviation. tion sector. vo and Taxiway Charlie to the main 4,200ft Minister Sharma reiterated, “this that you Ogle Airport Inc. has expressed its appre- BONUS CONTENT runway. are looking at today is local content at its ciation to the involvement of His Excellen- CLICK TO PLAY According to the CEO, because the airport best. This is the sector where everyone can cy President Granger and Commissioner of has a single runway system that did not have see what local content is and what it can do.” Lands and Survey Commission Trevor Benn $70M taxiway a taxiway for helicopters. “The new airport The minister also outlined the govern- for granting the airport a 50-year extension opens at Ogle airport will vastly improve the efficiency and econ- ment’s pledge to addressing issues related to its lease.  omy of the aircraft operations when taxiing to the airport. One of the topical issues, he to and from the runway and greatly reduce said, relates to the reestablishment of the Images: Ameer Sattaur runway occupancy time. It will also improve Airport Review committee that has not been Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Hon. Jaipaul the safety of fixed-wing aircraft and helicop- in place for 17 years even though the airport’s Sharma and Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority ter operations at the airport. lease agreement of 2001 dictates it must be Col. Edbert Field, along with airport officials at Eugene F. Correia Measuring 200 metres in length by 15 formed. International Airport commissioning Taxiway Foxtrot. 22 Diaspora Digest 23 Creation of four new towns

Consisting of six constituencies, namely Hosororo Hill, Mabaruma Settlement- Barimanobo, Kumaka, Thomas Hill-Smith Creek, Mabaruma Township/ Mabaruma - a major accomplishment Compound and Broomes Estate, as well as Barabina-Koberimo, Mabaruma in Region 1, was officially gazetted as a town on October 21, 2015. Driven by an imperative that all branches of Government munity”, “bush” or “backdam”. They are pristine capital towns, must be functional and that hinterland regions must be governed by councils - Mayors, Deputy Mayors, councillors equipped to manage their growth through local government, and Town Clerks - elected by the residents and supported by a since taking office, His Excellency, President David Granger has democratic government. commissioned 4 new capital towns in far-flung locations. These four towns are providing vital services to their res- The towns namely, Lethem, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequ- idents. This is a major accomplishment as for years, residents ibo (Region 9); Mabaruma, Barima-Waini (Region 1); Bartica, of these areas were compelled to travel to other parts of the Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region 7) and Mahdia, Potaro-Siparuni (Re- country to register their businesses or to renew their pass- gion 8), are being empowered to become the drivers of growth ports. Today, many of these essential services are now being in their regions. decentralized thereby allowing residents to conduct their The foursome is no longer labelled based on their econom- businesses within their town; their home. ic and social activities. They are no longer termed “mining com-

LETHEM

The declaration to officially grant Lethem township was on October 20, 2017. Guyana’s Ambas- sador to Brazil, George Talbot and several other dignitaries from the State of Roraima in neigh- bouring Brazil as well as hundreds of residents and school children also turned out to witness the historic event.

Mabaruma 24 Diaspora Digest 25 Creation of four new towns - a major accomplishment

Mahdia was on Thursday, October 25, 2018 officially declared the tenth town in Guyana by His Excellency, President David Granger. The declaration ceremony was held in the presence of several Ministers of Government, Re- gional representatives and Mayors. President Granger described the event as one of the most powerful economic reformers in the history of Mahdia and called for greater collaboration to ensure the ongoing development of the Bartica It was an historic occasion for the approximately 15,000 residents of Bartica on May 7, 2016, as they witnessed their community being officially

Mahdia 26 Diaspora Digest 27 New runway EDITORIAL

President David Granger recently signed the right of free, fair, and credible elections; Therefore, the Coalition’s championing of for Lethem the Proclamation for National and Regional because this is a process that is crucial for the House-to –House registration must be com- Elections to be held on March 2, 2020. participation of citizens in the right to govern mended for its adherence to the intended re- This brought to an end, what this column their particular state in their name. But there sult of credible elections; despite the process considered as unfair accusations, by especial- are certain criteria which are central to this having been shortened to comply with the ly envoys from the UK, US, EU; and inferences most important of democratic processes, CCJ’s ruling of elections in the ‘shortest time Airport from the Commonwealth and the Organisa- such as the preparation of an uncorrupted or possible’. The GECOM procedure of a claims tion of American States (OAS). Claims that clean voter’s list which must be able to de- and objections of 42 days, will allow those

By Anara Khan Minister of Public Infrastructure, Hon. Da- intends to upgrade the Lethem aerodrome vid Patterson during the ceremonial signing to regional standards which will also act as COALITION GOVERNMENT HAS ethem’s airstrip in Upper Takutu-Up- of the agreement for the rehabilitation of the a hub in servicing this demand,” Minister Pat- per Essequibo (Region 9) is set to aerodrome at the Takatu Hotel in Lethem not- terson stated. Lreceive a significant boost to its op- ed that there continue to be increasing calls He also pointed out that the rehabilitation ALWAYS CHAMPIONED FREE, FAIR erations with upcoming rehabilitative works. for air transportation between Georgetown, of the Lethem aerodrome will significantly re- The job was awarded to H. Nauth and Sons Lethem, Northern Brazil and the Caribbean. duce the cost of doing business and improve Limited on September 20, 2019, for $137. 3 Mil- This demand, he said, “is projected to grow the quality of inter-regional connectivity. AND CREDIBLE ELECTIONS lion and was already catered for in the 2019 exponentially – particularly with expansions Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo Budget. in the gold mining sector and emerging oil said the government believes that “the proj- Within the scope of works, 4,000ft of run- and gas industry.” ect is worthy and is critical to the vast region.” the government had been in ‘breach of the liver transparent poll results under any kind who were not registered to be part of the way will be paved. “The Government of Guyana ultimately He also noted that the transformation of Constitution’, or seemed to be indulging in of across-the-board scrutiny. It explains the National Register of Registrants database. In- the aerodrome will contribute to improving ‘delaying tactics’. reasons why the government had been very deed, this is a prime example of a government the standard of living in Region 9. However, the President has once again, insistent, ad nauseam, that there be House – that continues to genuinely uphold the Con- The Prime Minister further emphasised showed his and the government’s commit- to – House registration, a pre-electoral pro- stitution by supporting the constitutional that the upgrades are testimony of the gov- ment to the democratic process, as this has cedure that is crucial to a sanitized voter’s list, body of the GECOM to carry out its mandate ernment’s commitment to ensuring devel- been the Coalition’s method of governance, but which has been objected to by the PPP/C, of having free, fair, and credible elections. opment in all ten administrative regions of since its ascension to office in May 2015. For for reasons which can only be concluded as Be reminded, and this is with specific ref- Guyana. the government, democracy has been a con- sinister, and filled with dishonest intentions. erence to the ABE countries’ recent state- Also present for the ceremonial signing tinuous process in action, with strict obser- International records are filled with so many ment about “Essential to ensure free and fair was Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Ra- vance to the Constitution. This is evident in examples of governments that would have elections”. It is this medium through which phael Trotman along with engineers from the the Coalition’s insistence that GECOM be al- defaulted for certainly questionable reasons, the Coalition has been governing the affairs  Ministry of Public Infrastructure. lowed to fulfil its constitutional mandate, of in ensuring that voter’s lists are proper and of this nation, since 2015; giving meaning to preparing the nation for national elections in keeping with democratic standards; and its sacred understanding as it uses the man- Images: Keno George in a manner free from political interference, which in failing to do so, would have led to date derived from the people to govern fairly intrusion, or influence, from the Executive, or severe national tensions of varying extremes. while delivering socio-economic benefits to any other quarters, including the political op- Any government that is worth its demo- ALL Guyanese, irrespective of party affiliation position and their vested-interest supporters. cratic credentials; and respects the will and and ethnicity.  Prime Minister Hon. Moses The fact that the government has defended the rights of those that it had been elected to Nagamootoo ceremonially hands a the GECOM’s constitutional rights to be ex- govern, would not allow the travesty of not copy of the contract over to Project Coordinator, H. Nauth and Sons clusively responsible for this critical demo- having a proper voter’s list to facilitate free Limited Kiran Nauth. Also, in the cratic process, nails the lie that it has been in and fair elections in its jurisdiction. Impor- picture are (right) Minister of Public ‘breach of the Constitution’. tantly, a tainted voter’s list is a recipe for post Infrastructure Hon. David Patterson It is the responsibility, of every govern- –elections problems, which no democratic and (left) Minister of Natural ment, in every democratic society, to facilitate government, should want to have. Resources Hon. Raphael Trotman 28 Diaspora Digest 29

@dpiguyana 30 Diaspora Digest 31

right balance when he declared that in the Revenues from oil will facilitate unprecedent- opportunities in the massive downstream first decade of oil, there will be agricultural ed, dream-like development. public investment programmes. We must diversification and industrialisation. It is this decade that would be defining for develop long in advance of first oil, the nec- “Agriculture will not be neglected during Guyana, if we complement oil with the soil; essary institutional capacity to manage big the next decade,” President Granger assured; fuel with food. local projects alone or as joint development he expressed confidence that Guyana could Colin Campbell, founder of the Oil Deple- partners. Our business sector can enjoy the export US$250 million of agricultural pro- tion Analysis Centre way back in 2005, was bountiful promise that lies ahead. duce and could become the bread basket of quoted in an on-line article in The Guardian the Eastern Caribbean. that the world holds enough oil reserves for PROMISED LAND As the newest kid on the oil block, Guyana 40 years, and gas for 60 years. Other sources The Good Book tells us about Moses has to temper the widespread notion of a pie say that there are some 1.6 trillion barrels of wandering in the desert for 40 years before in the sky for all, with the realistic expecta- proven oil reserves, which could last just over he entered the Promised Land. Not claiming tion that the reserves do not last forever. 50 years at a consumption rate of 100 million the Biblical name or the fame of that Moses, barrels per day. The Saudi Arabian reserves in a personal way I feel privileged to live in DEPLETION OF OIL were estimated to last 70 years, given pro- Guyana and to share in the euphoria of our The eventual depletion of oil and other duction of 10 million barrels per day. own “Promised Land.” And, if life permits, I unanticipated hurdles that could make ex- should be around for the full 40 years of the traction from the reserves less viable, were SOIL CULTIVATION verifiable oil boom, and long before we hit probably what influenced the Guyanese Pres- So, the downstream of oil production, is the rock-bottom of oil depletion. But, then, ident to proclaim a “Decade of Development: soil cultivation. It is common sense that with there is still natural gas, which begins when 2020-2029.” revenues from oil being pumped into agri- oil ends! In Guyana, we are blessed with both sweet culture, agro-processing, fishery and inland I am confident that our APNU+AFC Co- I have heard enough cynicisms from so- many. Again, I was passing through Europe FOOD SECURITY oil and fertile soil. The first 10 years would be aquaculture, cattle and other large-scale live- alition Government holds a viable vision for called resource nationalists that down-play and I had a glimpse of the effects of that The Guyanese leader was at the time the bonanza decade. Depending on what the stock business, our wealth will never run dry. the Decade of Development under our Green the potential benefits Guyana could get from war on the Palestinian people, who were dis- launching National Tree Day, as part of the economists would describe as volatility in oil What we need from our business sector State Development Strategy. In simple, lay- its oil reserves. They invariably daub as crook- placed and scattered as refugees. observance of Agriculture Month, in my na- prices, Guyana’s stake in revenues could start is not interminable belly-aching about “local person’s language, this is: Oil plus Soil is equal ed the big foreign companies that could pos- Again, in distant Guyana, we suffered tive Corentyne. He was plugging for food se- from US$300 million annually, and peak at content,” but a solid focus and a strong will. to Fuel Plus Food.  sibly help make Guyana the richest country in even greater consequences with our elec- curity and self-sufficiency. He has struck the over US$5 billion by the end of the decade. We must begin to prepare for local-content the world. tricity services and transportation facilities I followed with growing pain the nihilistic almost crippled. In the potent game of oil in notion that we could leave our oil in the soil, geo-strategic politics, the Arab world react- and somehow still take our people out from ed with a wave of nationalisation of oil, and poverty; that ExxonMobil could walk, if we up there was almost a universal severance of demands for a hike in royalty and profit-oil. diplomatic ties with Israel. SAVIOUR NOT CURSE WRATH OF OIL I don’t doubt that oil has risks, many risks. Somehow, I had felt the righteous wrath But it is coming at this time as our saviour, not of oil, and I have been reluctant to write about as our curse. Politically, oil is also powerful, our budding oil industry, save for references and it could be used by those who have plen- to the estimated six billion barrels of proved ty of it–as a weapon. reserves from some, so far, 13 off-shore wells. In 1967 I was a young adventurer travel- Somehow I have always been shy about ling through Europe when the Six-Day War basking in wealth, ever since I heard a former erupted in the Middle East. Egypt and Syria prime minister in one of our Caribbean coun- suffered a humiliating defeat when Israel an- tries boasting (arrogantly, I would add), that nexed Gaza and the Golan Heights. The Arab “oil don’t spoil.” That may be so, but oil does world reacted by imposing an oil embargo run out, and could be worthless due to a glut against the West. or falling prices. Worse, if there is no balanced The effects were felt in far-off, newly in- agro-industrial development, the oil wealth dependent Guyana, as we experienced lines could be drained away on consumption and at the pump for fuel. The “Oil Weapon” was importation on food and other consumer es- again deployed in 1973 during what has been sentials that could be produced here. described as the Middle East Crisis, when President David Granger has tapped into Arab countries banned all oil shipments to a rich deposit of realism when he cautioned, the United States, United Kingdom and Ger- “don’t let us get drunk on oil.” MY TURN | MY TURN | MY TURN TURN | MY TURN | MY MY 32 Diaspora Digest 33

call by historians for the construction of the young Guyanese, particularly those of African expressed her appreciation to the govern- monument at this particular site. descent must see these dreadful aspects of ment for responding to their call. “It was this location that bore witness to our county’s history as a motivation to strive The monument, Guyan said, was promised numerous gruesome public executions. At for greatness,” Minister Norton said to re- under the previous administration at the said this very site, corpses of fallen enslaved peo- sounding applause. site, but the plans did not materialise. ple were hung in chains. In many cases, bodies The rebellion, which took place on August Sister Guyan recounted: “On this very were decapitated after being hung and heads 18, 1823, was led by slaves who were react- ground, on August 1, 2000, the then Presi- were stuck on poles, as a means of instilling ing to poor treatment and a desire for free- dent of this country, Mr. Jagdeo, turned the fear in those who survived and remained de- dom; also, there was a widespread, mistaken sod here with Ms. Gail Teixeira — who at the sirous of claiming their birthright - freedom,” belief that Parliament had passed a law for time [was] the Minister of Home Affairs — and Minister Norton stated. emancipation, but it was being withheld by they buried coins vowing with they would He further noted the 1823 Demerara Slave the colonial rulers. Prompted chiefly by Jack be a monument put here. However, when Revolt is an integral part of Guyana’s histo- Gladstone, a slave at plantation "Success", the we were ready, we were told that they were ry and by extension, the Caribbean’s colo- rebellion also involved his father, Quamina, and looking for a site to put the monument and nial history and it should not be buried or other senior members of their church group. Its we couldn’t understand this… [but it] was all go unmarked. Adding that the initiating of English pastor, John Smith, was implicated. to give this here to a particular entity to put a the memorial at the location will honour the The largely non-violent rebellion was bru- three-storey car park.” struggle of our African fore-parents and will tally crushed by the colonists under governor It was during the previous administration remind us that our freedom experienced to- John Murray. Many slaves were killed as the tenure too; that the monument was erected day came at an incalculable price. insurrection was put down and another 45 at the Atlantic Avenue against the objections “All Guyanese, are the beneficiaries of the men were sentenced to death, while 27 were of many persons. “We were on this ground on men and women and children who resisted executed. many occasions fighting to save it because with arms and other daily activities. We must, Sister Penda Guyan, President of the 1823 we know it is sacred,” Guyan remarked.  therefore, value their memory and use our Coalition for the Parade Ground Movement, time wisely and constructively. I believe that speaking on the sidelines of the sod turning, Images: Keno George Minister of Social Cohesion, Hon. Dr. George Norton and President of the 1823 Coalition for the Parade Ground Movement, Sister Sod turned Penda Guyan, turn the sod for the new 1823 Demerara Slave Revolt Monument, as His Worship Ubraj Narine and Deputy Mayor Alfred for new 1823 Mentore look on.

By Kellon Rover

ground-breaking ceremony was Monument held to mark the establishment of A a new 1823 Demerara Slave Revolt Monument at the Independence Park (Parade Ground) in memory of those who lost their lives during the 1823 Demerara Rebellion. at Parade This is a promise kept by the Coalition Government to relocate the memorial to its “original site,” from the Atlantic Avenue. The monument will be erected at Parade Ground, which is located between Middle and Water- loo Streets, Georgetown. Ground Minister of Social Cohesion, Hon. Dr. George Norton explained that while there is an 1823 monument already erected along the Atlantic Avenue, His Excellency, President Da- vid Granger felt it necessary to support the 34 Diaspora Digest 35

ments of all areas are necessary before a fig- ure can be determined at this stage. “We want to be very clear and be very sure that what we are asking for has to do with this emergency... So, at the level of the Govt activates Ministry of Public Infrastructure, at the lev- el of the Ministry of Social Protection, at the Communities, at the level of Public Security, Public Health and the Civil Defence Commis- sion, there are people who are working now National Emergency to ascertain what is necessary to approach the Ministry of Finance.” Taking into consideration the current situation of the spring tide, the fact that cli- mate change is occurring and will continue Operations Centre in this century and beyond, and the fact that majority of the affected areas are low-lying, Minister Patterson spoke of what is needed AS HIGH TIDES POUND to prevent similar occurrences in the future. “We have to build climate-resilient in- frastructure. Obviously, for the future, we need to anticipate how much higher the GUYANA’S COAST wave action will be in say another 20 or 30 years, to build our infrastructure to be able Director General, Ministry of the to withstand that. The short-term issue is to Minister of Public Infrastructure, Presidency, Joseph Harmon close the breach. The long-term issue is to Hon. David Patterson construct a full rip-rap structure along that continue the intervention. entire stretch. Of course, that is an expensive by the spring tides, continue. One of the 2 pumps being put in By Paul Mc Adam Addressing the media and agencies pres- The monies, he noted, will only be re- undertaking.” Residents in low lying and riverain areas place in Mahaicony, Region 5 to aid ent at the press conference, the various quested once all of the ministries and agen- It was reported that the Opposition and are being advised to take the necessary pre- is draining the Bellamy Canal into The government has activated the twen- agencies comprising the NEOC appraised the cies complete assessments, as it will cover members of civil society will be briefed on cautions during the next spring tide on Sat- the Atlantic Ocean. ty-four-hour National Emergency Operations media of the damage caused by floodwaters. interventions at all levels. These will not only the efforts, flood impacts and updated on the urday, October 26. They are being cautioned Centre (NEOC). This is the second time, since The agencies also revealed the steps that are to infrastructure and emergency works but situation as it unfolds. to heed any advice provided by the CDC in its formation in 2015, that the centre has been being taken to prevent a similar incident, as will also bring much-needed relief to the citi- Currently, the CDC and ministerial teams preparations of the expected tide. operationalized. the next spring tide is expected on Saturday, zens who are affected, but also health, among are spearheading relief efforts in the affect- The National Emergency Operations This comes after several villages across October 26. others. ed areas. Works on a sea defence breach at Centre (NEOC) is composed of a high-level Guyana’s coastlands were flooded as a result Minister of Public Infrastructure, Hon. Da- DG Harmon emphasised that the assess- Dantzig Mahaicony, which was exacerbated committee comprising state agencies’ repre- of unusually high spring tides. The situation vid Patterson indicated that keen attention is sentatives. These include the Ministry of the has affected approximately 400 households being paid to a particular stretch of sea de- Presidency, Public Infrastructure Ministry, across 65 coastal communities. The affected fence in the Dantzig area, on the East Coast Guyana Livestock Development Authority areas are those located closest to the beach- of Demerara. (GLDA), National Agricultural Research and es, stellings, river and sea defences. He explained that his ministry has been Extension Institute (NAREI), Guyana Rice De- Communities on the West Demerara, Re- undertaking corrective works since July of velopment Board (GRDB), National Drainage gion 3 including Den Amstel Anna Catherina, this year. “Since early on in the year, due to and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Hydro-Met Blankenburg, Ituni, Hydronie, in Parika, East weather patterns, the land access to this area Office, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Bank Essequibo, while on the East Coast, and was compromised; therefore, we were car- Ministry of Social Protection, Ministry of in Region 5 and 6 Colombia, Prospect, High rying out interventions from March of 2019,” Communities, Ministry of Public Health and Dam, Mahaicony and Sheet Anchor, New Am- Minister Patterson explained. the Civil Defence Commission (CDC). sterdam, are among the areas which were The media operatives also heard from the hard hit. Ministry of the Presidency's Director-General, Images: Department of Public Information The issue was addressed at the level of the Joseph Harmon. government, and an emergency press brief- He noted that a considerable amount of Minister of Communities, Hon. ing was convened, with relevant stakehold- money has already been spent on the area, Ronald Bulkan handing over a relief ers, to address the media, at the Civil Defence and an application will be made to secure ad- packages to an affected family in Commission’s (CDC) headquarters. ditional monies via the Contingency Fund to Region 3. 36 Diaspora Digest 37

By Delicia Haynes benefit the children who are in school, those Children of Fairview utlising as health, education, tourism and business in who would have to do SBAs at the secondary the internet service these communities. “Young people especially fter initial visits were made by level.... for teachers it will help them create know how to use this technology and that is teams from the National Data better learning aids.” happy that a major promise has been deliv- what we will build on...” Minister Hughes said. AManagement Authority (NDMA), Meanwhile, law enforcement officers ered to them, demonstrating the Coalition’s Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous 24 villages in the North Rupununi District down at the Kurupukari crossing said the ICT Government’s commitment bridging the di- Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido Lowe who of Region 9 are now online. These were done hub at the outpost where they are stationed vide between the Hinterland and the coast. accompanied Minister Hughes encouraged throughout 2019 and residents and others in will assist with their day to day communica- During the visit electronic were presented residents to utilise the internet for the mar- these villages have since responded saying tions. to several core groups to allow for the res- keting of local products and promoting their that it was a much-needed service. Lance Corporal, Elroy Aldridge, said, “I’m idents to make use of the free government village as a tourism destination among other Headmaster of the Kurupukari Primary working at the Kurupukari Crossing’s police WiFi which has been established. things. School at Fairview, Quado Vancooten was outpost for three weeks now and since I’ve The devices were presented to women’s, Training in the operation of the devices, delighted with the villagers’ response to free been here the internet has been very efficient youth, sport, wildlife and culture groups. The creation and management of web pages and internet service available. He noted that ev- allowing me to communicate with my family Nursery and/or Primary Schools in Fairview, the utilisation of software for businesses and eryone in the community is “connected” and and workmates.” Surama, Apoteri, Rewa, Rupertee among oth- other purposes were held for several resi- further explained that with half of Fairview’s Constable Kelvin Grant, working specifi- er North Rupununi villages also received tab- dents in the villages. Everybody’s connected!

population of 380 persons, being under the cally within the ambit of immigration services lets while the village leaders also received a Toshao of Fairview, Martin Carter who age of 15, the availability of free WiFi service noted that “Immigration’s purpose at this device. benefitted from training at an initial work- can broaden the horizon of hinterland youth. crossing here is really for the Venezuelans At Kurupukari, the internet service point shop, welcomed the establishment of the in- “We can already see the benefits of it, the and other nationalities traversing the bor- is located at the Fairview Health Centre, Min- ternet service and all the benefits that will ac- young people are going and getting their in- der so we are grateful for the net as it helps ister Hughes disclosed that there are plans crue. Martin said he is prepared to work with formation, going on google and everyone is communication-wise between myself and my to extend the internet service to the school fellow trainees to ensure others in his village getting on board with technology” supervisor… so that has been easier for me.” making it more convenient for the residents. especially the older residents are familiarised Added to this, the Headmaster said, “In the Minister of Public Telecommunications, In Surama, the internet hub is located in with the tablets and other ICT devices afternoon it’s a good sight to see young peo- Catherine Hughes visited most of the villages the community centre while the internet hub “The internet is something new especial- ple coming out to the [hot spot] to checks, and heard from most residents who were- in Rewa is in the vicinity of the communi- ly to the older folks.... we have the women’s they don’t have to ask for information any- ty’s health centre, village office and Primary group that does sewing and now they can more they are getting it on their own. It has School. In these villages, the internet service check online for new designs to do that... brought the village together so I could tell Minister within the Ministry of will also be extended to key buildings to facil- for the school children, they can do their re- you it has been of great benefit to people” Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. Hon. itate further scheduled upgrades. search for homework. Before we utilise the Trainee teacher of Surama, Salome Alli- Garrido Lowe, along with Minister The Telecommunications Minister noted service at Iwokrama but now we won’t have of Public Telecommunications, Hon. cock was excited about the educational op- that this is just the beginning as there are to do that.”  Catherine Hughes, hands over a tions that will be accessible to the children major plans in store for ICT in the hinterland tablet to a representative of the and teachers. “The internet here will mostly that will positively impact major sectors such Images: Karime Peters sports group at Fairview 38 Diaspora Digest Education and National Development 39

Each year the month of September is observed as ‘Education $170MILLION Golden Education Education Month’. This year the Ministry of Education has planned over 20 Grove Secondary School Exposition 2019 Exposition 2019 activities across Guyana to engage all stakeholders in education. commissioned The activities were observed under the theme “Education: The Key to National Development”. Has customarily the Ministry of Education used the opportunity to shine a positive light on the education system, to track its forward movement and to celebrate the achievements of our students, teachers, parents, administrators and all those others who, collectively, keep the system ticking over.

Some of the students at the 2019 Education Exposition at Durban Park

Two primary schools $1MILLION to Education Exposition 2019 wrapped up Information Technology Lab at the this year’s Education Month activities. Stu- rebuilt in Region 7 develop STEM at New Golden Grove Secondary School dents from over 100 schools across Guyana Some of the students at the 2019 Education Exposition at Durban Park Amsterdam Multilateral The Golden Grove secondary school lo- benefitted yet again from the annual 'Edu- cated on the East Coast of Demerara, 15 miles cation Exposition' held at the D'Urban Park. The Cyril Potter College of Education from Georgetown, was commissioned by Speaking about the “decade of development” (CPCE) received equipment which was made Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry. The and the various sectors of Guyana's economy possible by a $50M grant obtained through construction of the facility was undertaken that will undergo transformation, His Excel- a collaboration between the Government of by Ivor Allen Construction Services to the val- lency, President David Granger explained his Guyana and the People’s Republic of China. ue of $170M. The new school is outfitted with vision of free education to the thousands of In attendance were President David Granger, four laboratories, two for science (biology students gathered, adding that it will become Ambassador of the People’s Republic to Guy- and chemistry), one information technology reality from 2020. The Education Exposi- ana, Cui Jianchun, Minister of Education Dr. laboratory and one Home Economic labora- tion showcases various areas within STEAM Nicolette Henry and the Chief Education Offi- Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Nicolette Henry, tory. The institution also has a lift to cater to learning, Science, Technology, Engineering, cer, Dr. Marcel Hutson. Minister Henry during Minister of State, Hon. Dawn Hastings-Williams, Re- His Excellency, President David Granger hands over gional Chairman, Gordon Bradford along with REdO the cheque to Headteacher of New Amsterdam Mul- the needs of students with Special Education Arts, Mathematics and exposes students to her charge to the students said that, she does Akbar Chindu and Headmistress of Paruima Primary tilateral School, Vanessa Jacobs Needs (SEN). Other facilities include a waiting various areas of learning, training and profes- not doubt that the equipment, consumables School unveiling the commissioning plaque area (Benab), hard standing (tarmac), Library, sional advancement. Agencies, schools and and reagents will aid in the science capabili- $1M cheque was handed over to the New Smart Room, Sick Bay, Counselling Room, departments who participated in the activity ties of the college in order for it to discharge Amsterdam Multilateral School for the devel- Staff Room, and a modern canteen. The include NCERD, GTI, Carnegie School of Home its mandate more effectively, as focusing on opment of the school in the area of Science, school has a student population of 722.  Economics and the Ministry of Education.  science is becoming more important daily.  Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This announcement and the subse- quent handing over of the cheque were done in the school’s auditorium during a visit by

The new $30MILLION Kamarang Primary School President David Granger and Minister of Ed- ucation, Nicolette Henry. The President said the contribution falls in line with his vision to During the month, two communities in improve education in Guyana.  Cuyuni- Mazaruni (Region 7) Kamarang and Guyana’s first E-Library launched at North Paruima welcomed new school buildings. Georgetown Secondary School The two schools together cater for about 400 students. Minister of Education. Dr. Ni- The North Georgetown Secondary School platform, the quality of education offered colette Henry and Minister of State, Dawn BONUS CONTENT celebrated its 50th anniversary in grand style can be improved. The project was made pos- Hastings-Williams commissioned the new CLICK TO PLAY by launching the country’s first e-library, sible through the contributions of the North buildings and noted that three other prima- which costs some $10.5M. This innovative Georgetown Secondary School Committee project is focused on improving literacy in of Past Students along with other partners ry schools in the region are expected to be Education Month Special completed by the end of this year. For the all educational levels. The establishment of including the Education Ministry. Students very first time, a primary school will be con- - New Science Laboratory the e-library was recognised by Education can now access information from the devic- structed in Iteringbang and a special needs Minister Nicolette Henry, who expounded on es, which are situated in a designated area at school in Bartica. The other school is being its importance in today’s world of advanced the school.  constructed in Kako, also in Region 7.  technology. She noted that with this innovate 40 Diaspora Digest 41 #FactsMatter

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www.dpi.gov.gy @dpiguyana www.ncnguyana.com 42 Diaspora Digest 43 Indigenous leaders meet for annual conference

The 13th annual National Toshaos Council (NTC) conference, where village Toshaos, se- nior councillors and community development Great progress made in chairpersons from Guyana’s 215 hinterland Monies for hinterland communities gather to consolidate and ex- sustainable community pand national development, which would in- hinterland human development Five communities evitably cater to the needs of the indigenous projects people, was held from October 7 to 11th at the receive land titles Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Lilendaal, Greater Georgetown. The conference ad- Laluni’s receives tractor dressed issues such as land titles, education, health, security and infrastructure.

Five more Indigenous communities - Over $34M in Presidential and Capital Kangaruma and Tasserene, Region 7; Yupu- Grants were presented to Toshaos for green kari, Region 9 and St. Monica and Mainstay/ sustainable community projects. The cheques Whyaka, Region 2 received their certificates were presented to 25 village leaders by Min- of titles for their lands. The documents were ister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. handed over at the conference. These com- Sydney Allicock, Minister within the Ministry, munities have been waiting years for their The agriculture drive in the community Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe and Ministerial grants of titles to move forward with the de- of Laluni along the Soesdyke-Linden High- Advisor and Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. A constitution for velopment of their villages. way received a boost following the handing Mervyn Williams. over of a tractor which was requested by its each Toshao Indigenous leaders leaders. The heavy-duty machine was hand- 8 hinterland endorse 'Spotlight ed over to Chairman of the Community De- communities benefit velopment Council (CDC), Aaron Defreitas by Initiative' Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. from outboard engines Sydney Allicock and Minister within the min- istry, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe during the conference.

Toshaos benefit from His Excellency, President David Granger, Pres. Granger, Prime tablet distribution in his address to Toshaos and other village leaders, at the opening of the conference Minister host reception President David Granger stated that the for Toshaos country is moving towards a more inclusive Under the United Nation’s ‘Spotlight Ini- and equal society and this means that hin- tiative’, Guyana will benefit from $1Billion terland human development is imperative, (€4.5M) to end all forms of violence against especially in the fields of education, health women and girls, and to ensure that they The Toshaos and indigenous leaders that livelihood and social protection. He explained realise their full potential in a violence-free, Eight hinterland communities will now gathered in Georgetown for the conference that the Decade of Development 2020-2029 gender-responsive and inclusive way. This have improved accessibility as they benefit- were all presented with a copy of Guyana’s will be launched next year 2020 and said that was announced by UN Resident Coordina- ted from outboard engines from the Ministry Constitution. The copies of the supreme law the ‘Decade’ aims at promoting a more equal tor and United Nations Development Pro- of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. The commu- of Guyana were handed out by Office of the society in which everyone would feel a sense His Excellency, President David Granger gramme (UNDP) Resident Representative, nities that received the outboard engines Prime Minister (OPM) Coordinator of the De- of belonging and share in national develop- and Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo Mikiko Tanaka, during a presentation at the include Arakaka, Sebai, Hirena, Hotoquai and 200 Huawei electronic tablets were dis- partment of Governance, Tamara Khan. Khan ment. The President related, “I have identified were among government officials to hosted a 13th National Toshaos' Council Conference. Aruau from Region 1 along with Waipa, Sand tributed to the Indigenous leaders attending addressed the conference on the third day, five targets which are achievable and which reception for the Toshaos and other Indige- The 'Spotlight Initiative' will deploy targeted, Hill and Kaibarupai from Region 8. The en- the conference. Minister of Public Telecom- and disclosed that OPM, with permission would improve substantively the quality of nous village leaders who were in Georgetown large-scale investments into significantly im- gines, which range from 15 to 40 horsepow- munications, Hon. Catherine Hughes pre- from the Indigenous Village Councils will life of indigenous peoples by 2029. I believe for the 13th Annual National Toshaos’ Council proving the lives of women and girls in the er, are part of the government’s mission to sented the devices to the Toshaos and urged take its Constructional Reform education that these are realistic goals which can be (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Con- hinterland was welcomed by the indigenous improve the lives of the Indigenous Peoples. the Indigenous leaders to use the devices to programme to the hinterland communities. achieved within the next ‘Decade.” ference Centre (ACCC) leaders. Additionally, Bashaizon received an ATV. better serve their respective communities. 44 Diaspora Digest 45

is much safer than going through the back. Plus, the expenses are more at the back than here… I am comfortable. I am safer. I am sat- isfied with what the government did. It eases a lot of people.” An elderly woman named Janet Brown ex- pressed her reluctance to travel through the backtrack, adding that she prefers the ferry and would only utilise the former only if nec- essary. The ferry service recommenced, one day after the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, led by Honourable Minister David Patterson and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented the Canawaima Ferry Service Inc. in a joint meet- ing with the Surinamese Government led by

A Guyanese residing in Suriname, A painter, Ronald Rugnaught 'Off to a bright start' Jimmy Chan His Excellency Vijay Chotkan, Minister of Pub- lic Works, Transport and Communication. noted, “we have had 120 passengers and 5 The two Nations met and iron out their Guyana-Suriname Ferry service back in business vehicles. So, we are off to a very bright start.” obligations, challenges, and discrepancies Passengers who do not meet the strict between the parties. travel requirements will not be allowed to Among some of the topics discussed were; board the vessel. These include having a Procurement regulations on the part of both passport with 6 months validity until expira- Governments, the disparity of salaries, living tion, and an International Certificate of Vacci- quarters for crew members, scope of works, nation or Prophyulaxis for Yellow Fever. By Shaquille Bourne and arrangement of frequent meetings and Sandaka sailed for Paramaribo around the recommencement date of service to both 9am, taking approximately 30 minutes. On After the Canawaima Ferry was suspended the Guyanese and Surinamese counterpart. its return to Molsen Creek, some of the first for four months for much-needed repairs, the On October 16, the Canawaima Ferry will passengers that disembarked shared their M.B. Sandaka that usually works the Parika to be back in operation.  Leguan route began to transport passengers thoughts on the impact of the resumed ser- from Molsen Creek to Paramaribo, Suriname vice on their commute. An elderly woman, Janet Brown Images: Tejpaul Bridgemohan on Thursday, September 26, 2019. BONUS CONTENT Jimmy Chan, a Guyanese residing in Su- riname, mentioned that while he had initial- Fisherwoman, Amanda Walcott was one CLICK TO PLAY of the scores of passengers that boarded the ly planned to return to Guyana on Tuesday vessel. According to her, the reinstatement through the backtrack, he quickly changed Deputy Superintendent within A fisherwoman, Amanda Walcott of the ferry service is a weight off her shoul- Guyana Suriname ferry his mind upon learning of the ferry service. Canawaima Ferry Inc., Deyne Harry. ders. “I feel proud the vessel is back again this service sails again “I decided to wait on it because I know this morning because it was more harassing with the little boat… At the end of the day, the ferry is much better,” the fisherwoman. Commenting on the resumption of ser- Talks held on Guyana/ vice with the temporary vessel, a painter that resides in Kitty, Ronald Ragnaught stated, “I Suriname Ferry Service find it is good for the people… for both sides, Guyana and Suriname so that they can cross with no fear.” Deputy Superintendent within Canawaima Ferry Incorporated, Deyne Harry provided an overview of the morning’s operations. De- Deputy Superintendent within scribing the reopening as 'good', the official Canawaima Ferry Inc., Deyne Harry. 46 Diaspora Digest 47

Minister of Finance, Hon. Winston Jordan, Chairman of Massy’s Integrated Business Unit David Affronso, and Minister of Business, Hon. Hemraj Rajkumar, flanked by Massy executives check out some of the traditionally fresh produce on offer on at the store.

who we proudly serve,” said Affonso in his re- marks during the opening ceremony. The Massy executive described the Movi- eTowne location as convenience. “This loca- tion is a hub of entertainment and provides customers with many options at one loca- tion…world-class cinemas, premium dining options and now with Massy Mega, an excep- tional shopping experience,” said Affonso. He said Massy Mega is a one of a kind re- tail location, which significantly diversifies MASSIVE MASSY MEGA the country’s retail space in several ways. “We have always strived to deliver the high- est quality products, services and experience to our customers,” said the chairman, adding opens at Turkeyen that Massy Mega offers a unique value prop- new categories such as electronics, genera- create a more competitive business environ- osition to the Guyana market. tors, tenting, luggage and auto accessories, ment and enhance enterprise development. While the Massy Stores’ Providence lo- to name a few. The new store also includes a These are powerful reasons to welcome for- Minister of Finance, Hon. Winston Jordan, Chairman of Massy’s Integrated cation delivers the traditional features of a bakery, pharmacy and deli. eign investment into Guyana.” Business Unit David Affronso, and Minister of Business, Hon. Hemraj Rajkumar, One of the largest business conglom- supermarket, the Turkeyen location offers a Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, who The Finance Minister also reminded the flanked by Massy executives at the opening of Massy Store Mega, at the erates in the Caribbean, Massy Group, has warehouse shopping experience which spans was in attendance at the opening congratu- Trinidad-based company that building local MovieTowne Complex Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown. opened a “Massy Stores Mega” in the Movi- over 34,000 square feet of retail space, with lated the company for its efforts. “We know partnerships would ensure all-round bene- eTowne compound at Turkeyen. an expanded range of bulk and non-food that foreign investment is a major catalyst for fits. “We welcome all investments. But part- The store, which is the second Massy items. economic development and modernisation. nerships between the foreign investor and Mega and the 49th Massy Store in the Carib- The Mega Store spans over 34,000 The non-food offerings include several We know that foreign investment helps to the locals must be encouraged and devel- bean, offers a unique format to customers. square feet of retail space oped as an integral part of doing business in The mega format is much like the warehouse Guyana,” said Minister Jordan. or club shopping experience which has be- come popular in the USA, where customers Continued on page 50 have the option to purchase a wide variety of items in larger quantities at very affordable price points. The big difference with Massy Mega is that there are no membership fees, all are welcome. Its loyalty programme offers shoppers the chance to redeem points at the Turkeyen and the initial Providence locations. The store opens from Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 9pm and on Sundays, from 9am to 6pm. Chairman of Massy’s Integrated Business Unit, David Affronso said Massy Mega rep- resents a deepening of the Massy Group in- vestment in the Guyanese market. “It is also evidence of our continued commitment to Guyana and more so to the people of Guyana 48 Diaspora Digest 49

From page 49

The minister said he is looking forward to MASSIVE MASSY MEGA the development and growth of a symbiotic relationship between Massy Stores and local suppliers. opens at Turkeyen “Partnership and profit are not anathe- mas. It is a win-win for all. Supporting local producers whilst balancing variety, cost and convenience work out best all round. The farmer, that has a contract to supply pump- kins, is assured of a ready market and can, therefore, cultivate his crop, and look for- ward to an assured income,” Minister Jordan said. He asserted that supermarkets must avoid becoming centres of imported products, es- pecially those that can readily be sourced lo- cally – whether it is bottled water, packaged PM Modi met with roti or sugar cake. Such actions have the ef- fects of pushing the “small man” out of busi- ness, thereby aggravating the unemployment the leaders of situation; damaging the cultural and culinary psyche; and leaking foreign exchange. “I hope our forthcoming Local Content legislation will provide clarity to this very im- CARICOM at the UNGA portant requirement. Partnership and profit organic products. Interior shot of the Massy Mega are not anathema; it is a win-win for all. Sup- With rising household incomes, the Guy- Store at the MovieTowne Complex, porting local producers while balancing vari- anese customer is expected to become in- Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown India’s historic and warm relations with Indian diaspora as a vibrant and enduring link Prime Minister Narendra Modi ety, cost and convenience works out best all creasingly sophisticated in their shopping the countries of the Caribbean witnessed of friendship with the Caribbean. with the 14 leaders of the Caricom round. habits and demands. a new momentum with the meeting of PM The meeting deliberated on the strength- group he met on the sidelines of the While supporting local, he said Massy Massy started its operations in Guyana Modi with 14 leaders of the CARICOM group ening the political and institutional dialogue United Nations General Assembly Mega must also seek to distinguish itself just over 50 years ago and since then, the automotive, gas products, industrial equip- of countries on sidelines of the United Na- processes, boosting economic cooperation, from other supermarkets through its offer conglomerate has grown and is participating ment, financial services and distribution and tions General Assembly on 25 September increasing trade and investment and foster- of a wide range of alternative, biological and in industries such as information technology, retail. 2019 in New York. Hon’ble Allen Chastenet, ing greater and more robust people- to- peo- The Massy Group which has been in oper- Prime Minister of St Lucia and current Chair- ple relations. PM Modi also laid emphasis on ation since 1923 is a diversified regional con- man of CARICOM co-chaired the meeting. partnering with CARICOM countries in ca- in Georgetown, Guyana and the Regional Vo- glomerate with operations throughout the The meeting was attended by the Hon’ble pacity building, development assistance and cational Training Center in Belize by upgrad- Caribbean basin, Colombia and South Florida. Heads of Governments of Antigua and Bar- cooperation in disaster management and ing the existing India-funded centers in these The Group employs over 11,000 people in its buda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts resilience. He invited CARICOM countries to countries. The Indian side also expressed sup- retail, distribution, automotive and industri- and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grena- join the International Solar Alliance and the port to specialized capacity building courses, al equipment, energy and gas products, fi- dines, Trinidad and Tobago, Vice President of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. training and deputation of Indian experts nancial services and other business sectors. Suriname, and Foreign Ministers of Bahamas, PM expressed his condolences on the de- based on the needs and requirements of the With over 60 operating companies across six Belize, Grenada, Haiti and Guyana. struction caused by Hurricane Dorian in the CARICOM countries. He invited a Parliamen- business segments comprising Massy Hold- It was the first-ever meeting of PM Modi region and the worst hit island of Bahamas to tary delegation from CARICOM to visit India ings, the Group can leverage significant syn- with CARICOM leaders in a regional format which India has provided immediate financial in the near future. ergies and deliver greater growth and value and highlighted the steadily intensifying and assistance of USD 1 million. CARICOM leaders welcomed the initia- for stakeholders. Massy is a public company deepening relations between India and part- PM Modi announced a USD 14 million tives proposed by PM Modi to strengthen which is traded on the Trinidad & Tobago ner countries of the Caribbean, not only in grant for community development projects engagement and cooperation between the Stock Exchange.  the bilateral, but also in the regional context. in the CARICOM and another 150 million Line two sides and reassured full support from PM Modi reiterated India’s firm commitment of Credit for solar, renewable energy and cli- their respective governments. to strengthen its political, economic and cul- mate- change related projects. He also an- It was decided to set up a Joint Task Force The new store includes a bakery, tural engagement with CARICOM. He recalled nounced the setting up of the Regional Cen- to expeditiously look into possible areas of pharmacy and deli the presence of more than a million-strong ter for Excellence in Information Technology cooperation and identify the way forward.  50 Diaspora Digest 51 GUYANESE RETURN HOME FROM HURRICANE-RAVAGED BAHAMAS

Minister of State, Hon. Dawn Vanessa Taite, holding her three- Minister of Citizenship, Hon. Winston Director-General of the CDC, Lt Col Hastings-Williams and Director- month-old baby in her hands while Felix with the Simon Family. Kester Craig engages Seraphine General of the CDC, Lt. Col. Kester speaking to reporters Grimmond Craig interact with Orin Grimmond rin and Sholme Grimmond and and his family “Material things don’t matter” their children, Seraphine, age 7; Fighting back tears, 59-year-old Cecil Si- mph (295 km/h), making it the strongest hur- OAngeline, age 2 and two-month- mon said he and his wife Olive are beyond ricane on record to affect the northwestern old Kemuel arrived at the Cheddi Jagan thankful that they are back. The experience, Bahamas. Four weeks after the storm, Baha- International Airport, Timehri just before “Horrifying experience” family survived. he said, reveals that material things really do mas' Prime Minister, Hubert Minnis said over 22:00 hours on Sunday, September 15, 2019. One week later, Minister Felix, on the eve- Orin Grimmond said he was happy to be While he has no plans to return to the is- not matter. They are grateful for life. 600 persons are still missing. The husband and wife, who were both ning of Sunday, September 22, welcomed the back on home soil after the “horrifying” ex- land to work, Grimmond said they will proba- “I can remember Bahamians making the Minister Felix said the Simon family is the teachers at the Long Bag Adventist School on second family, to returned from Bahamas, perience. “It’s my country after all. I know, de- bly return to visit the friends and family, who statement that hurricane Dorian is a level- last of 12 individuals who have indicated their Abaco Island, and their children left the hur- back to their homeland of Guyana. spite where we go Guyana will not refuse its are still there. ling experience. Levelling in the sense that interest in returning home. ricane-devastated Bahamas just before 15:00 The Cooper family – Vanessa Taite, her re- citizens out there…My first choice is to return Vanessa Taite described her experience as you don’t have the high and mighty and the He said when the government began as- hours and travelled first to Jamaica and then puted husband Stevie Cooper Snr. and their home where my family is,” he said. “horrible.” low. Everybody is being reduced to the same sessing, the persons were willing to return; to Trinidad and Tobago before they landed in three children Stevie Cooper Jnr., Steven Coo- Grimmond recalled that his family first Holding her three-month-old baby in thing. We come into this world with nothing, more than 100 persons were initially inter- Guyana. per and Steve Cooper – arrived at approxi- sought refuge in the ceiling of their Mar- her arms, Taite recalled: “It is not something we leave with nothing,” he explained. ested. That figure later reduced to 28, then They were met by Minister of Citizenship, mately at 22:00hurs, at CJIA. This family too sha Habour home as the hurricane passed anyone would want to have to live through. Simon said his family lost everything in finally, 12. Winston Felix, Minister of State, Dawn Hast- family resided in Abaco, Bahamas. though the island. Speaking about it is something different but the category five hurricane that swept across “Others who are interested in coming may ings-Williams; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. The Simons- Bahamas-based Guyanese “The water was rising…It was terrifying actually going through it, it was very scary. the Abaco Islands. have to do so on their own steam because Karen Cummings and Director General of the teachers Cecil and Olive - were the third Guy- because there is no way to escape…And so Bahamian families died; the entire roof of our Despite strong building codes, Dorian this marks the culminating point of gov- Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Lieutenant anese family to return home on Sunday, Sep- what we did, we kicked the door out,” he said, house came off. So, it’s like going through a flattened homes after it made landfall on ernment’s intervention to return Guyanese Colonel Kester Craig. tember 29. adding that it was a miracle that he and his real scary movie.” Sept. 1 with maximum sustained winds of 185 home,” he said.  52 Diaspora Digest 53 GUYANA CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN ITS DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS GLOBALLY

New Japanese Ambassador Tatsuo Hirayama (centre in front row) prior to His Excellency, President David Granger receiving the presenting his letters of credence to His letter of credence from European Union Ambassador Excellency, President David Granger. to Guyana, H.E Fernando Cantó in the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Dr. Karen Cummings he recent appointment of several High Commissioners and Ambassadors to T Guyana is expected to enhance the existing relations between Guyana and these nations. It also provides the opportunity to His Excellency, President David Granger further explore areas of collaboration and being greeted by the Mexican Ambassador co-operation. Guyana’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency to Guyana, H.E José Contreras Bayney Karran was recently accredited non-resident High Commissioner to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Mostly recently, His Excellency, President Da- India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, His vid Granger has accepted Letter of Credence from the Non-Resident Ambassadors of ------Excellency Dr. K. J. Srinivasa in discussion with the Republic of Finland, the State of Kuwait Finnish Ambassador, His Excellency, Pertti His Excellency, President David Granger. and Ireland to the Cooperative Republic of Ikonen noted that his country’s technolog- Guyana, among others. ical advancements “could contribute to the transformation of the Guyanese economy.” ------His Excellency, President Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Guy------Non-resident Ambassador of Japan to ana, His Excellency, Nasser Riden Al-Motairi, Guyana, Tatsuo Hirayama, said that the David Granger and Qatar’s the president expressed hope that his tenure cooperation which exists between the two Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, H.E José Ambassador H.E. Al-Abdulla “will contribute to continuing cooperation Contreras said that his country will be countries are a testimony of the positive and initiate new areas of collaboration, seeking to strengthen relations in the areas relations shared for over 50 years. “As global especially in the oil and gas sector, energy, of education. partners, our countries share common inter- the geographical distance between the two. sustainable development, agriculture and ests, common challenges and fundamental “I am looking forward to cooperating with education.” ------beliefs such as democracy, human rights members of your government, to develop The European Union Ambassador to Guyana, and international security. I sincerely hope and enhance the already exciting, cordial ------H.E Fernando Cantó said that the EU is proud to develop our bilateral relations on the next relations between both of our countries. Let the High Commissioner, immense opportuni- Non-Resident Ambassador (Designate) of to have been a reliable partner and support- level with Your Excellency’s support and the me reiterate my thanks, and consideration, ties exist for both countries to further enha Ireland to Guyana, His Excellency Seán Hoy er of Guyana’s development initiatives for people of Guyana. Your guidance will help in to your Excellency.” nce bilateral trade. This includes agriculture said that “the Caribbean is the focus area more than 40 years. Of particular note, he the strengthening of ties between our two and food processing, oil and gas, renewable of Ireland as we seek to increase our global emphasised the EU’s extensive contribution countries. I resolve to try my best,” he said. ------sources of energy, forestry, drugs and phar- footprint. I look forward to engaging with to helping Guyana maintain and rehabilitate ...... India’s new High Commissioner to Guyana, maceuticals, public infrastructure, education your government to explore our bilateral its sea defences which become more and Qatar’s ambassador to Guyana, H.E. Al-Ab- His Excellency Dr. K. J. Srinivasa’s reiterat- etc. relations including through our membership more relevant each day as we witness the dulla, in his remarks, notes that both coun- ed India’s commitment to assisting in the of the European Union.” harsh effects of climate change. tries have enjoyed excellent relations despite overall development of Guyana. According to Images: Keno George and Kawise Wishart 54 Diaspora Digest

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