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Chinese firms dominate bid to set up Linden solar project Sep 29, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Four of the nine bidders who bid to set up the Linden solar power project are from China, while the other firms are from Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago (T&T), the USA and Puerto Rico. The contract which is being executed through the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is for the ‘Engineering, Procurement, and Construction of Three (3) Utility Scale Ground-Mounted Solar PV Plants (total 15MWp) with Battery Energy Storage Systems (total 22MWh) Lot 2 (Linden)’. In response to the tender, nine bidders have submitted bids to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office. According to information released from the NPTAB office, the bidders are as follows: SOEnergy International who bid US$80,069,197 (USA); TOSL Engineering Ltd. who bid US$22,833,696.67 (T&T); CH4 Systems who bid US$57,828,234.87 (Puerto Rico); Standby Power Engineering Company (SPECOM) who bid US$22,581,765 (Guyana); 2020 FMCG Inc. who bid US$23,497,479 (Guyana); Zhejiang Zhongnan Construction Group Co. Ltd who bid US$23,500,563.97 (China); Instec-Sinosoar Consortium who bid CNY$175,338,710.36 (China); PowerChina Jiangxi Electric Power Engineering Ltd who bid US$26,970,288.85 (China); and SUMEC Complete Equipment & Engineering Co. Ltd & XJ Group Corporation (joint venture of SUMEC XJ Group) who bid US$22,588,888 (China). In its tender document, GPL stated that the Government of Guyana has earned financing under the Guyana – Norway Partnership and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this financing for this contract. Kaieteur News had reported in June 2022, that the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), through the Guyana-Norway arrangement, has approved up to US$83.3 million to be used to construct solar plants to supply 34 megawatts of power to Essequibo, Berbice and Linden. In a press statement at the time, the IDB noted that the non-reimbursable investment will help Guyana promote its energy matrix diversification to avoid deforestation and face climate change. The projects will be executed by the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Photovoltaic Programme (GUYSOL). GUYSOL will invest in eight utility-scales photovoltaic solar projects totaling 33 megawatts peak (MWp), with associated 34-megawatt hour (MWh) energy storage systems that will be distributed across three areas in the country. The eight projects will be done at eight sites: two in Region Two, three in Region 10, one in Region Five and two in Region Six. It was stated that 10MWp will be invested for the Berbice area, an 8MWp plant in the Essequibo system with a minimum of 12MWh battery storage and 15MWp plant connected to the Linden system, with a minimum of 22MWh battery storage. Notably, the programme will also support a step-change to the digitalization of Essequibo and Linden electrical systems – which will move them from manual systems towards real-time, automated monitoring and control – improving efficiency, reliability, and stability. The IDB also revealed that the projects will contribute to avoiding CO2 emissions, lowering electricity cost generation, and supporting a substantial transition to generation based on renewable energy sources. Related Similar Articles

Ina Maimu Yetatokon places focus on climate change and its impact on Indigenous land tenure Sep 29, 2024 News Scenes from Ina Maimu Yetatokon 2024 Kaieteur News – The Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) hosted this year’s edition of Ina Maimu Yetatokon at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown on September 13, 2024. Ina Maimu Yetatokon, a Patamona phrase meaning “Listen to Our Voices,” is the title of APA’s signature panel forum that promotes Indigenous culture and traditional knowledge while addressing issues affecting Indigenous communities. This year’s event focused on Climate Change and its impact on Indigenous land tenure in Guyana. The panel featured Indigenous people with firsthand experience and knowledge on various topics relevant to their realities. The forum opened with a prayer in Akawaio by APA Women’s Representative Toshao Alma Marshall, followed by remarks from APA President Mr. Lemmel Benson. There was also a spoken word performance and a song by Ms Daniela Araujo and APA staff Mr. Graham Atkinson and Ms Don Stoll, respectively. Toshao Romario Hastings of Kako Village kicked off the formal discussion with his perspective on Indigenous culture and its connection to land. Ms Jacinta Realine from Aishalton Village in the South Rupununi followed, sharing the Wapichan people’s unique approach to fire management and environmental practices. Mr. Kemal Robinson, APA’s Youth representative from Kato, offered his perspective on the impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Peoples in the North Pakaraimas. While Mr.  Kyle Joseph, also from the Rupununi region, discussed the impact of Protected Zones on Indigenous life. To close, APA’s Executive Director, Ms. Jean La Rose, provided insightful commentary on Indigenous peoples’ right to organize and participate in decision-making processes. The presentations were well-received, prompting questions from physical and virtual audiences. APA’s Mr. Graham Atkinson and Ms. Faye Stewart skillfully moderated the discussion. In keeping with the overarching objective, Ina Maimu Yetatokon created a unique space for open conversations, allowing Indigenous people to share their experiences firsthand. Outside of the discussion, the APA event featured a mini exhibition hosted by incredible Indigenous creatives and entrepreneurs, including The Nine Nations, Abrams Authentic Products, Rupununi Adventures Craft Shop, and Ashine Authentic Products, showcasing their talents and contributions. Related Similar Articles

Miss Amerindian Heritage pageant  to culminate heritage month festivities Sep 29, 2024 News The 10 delegates vying for the title of Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen 2024. (DPI photo) Kaieteur News – The Miss Amerindian Heritage pageant set to take place on Monday at the National Cultural Centre will culminate the festivities for Amerindian Heritage Month. Ten Indigenous beauties from each of the country’s ten administrative Regions are set to grace the stage in a showcase of talent, grit and cultural fortitude. Weeks leading up to the finale, the delegates participated in various regional pageants hosted by their respective villages. During the regional competition, one delegate was crowned to compete in the Miss Amerindian Heritage pageant 2024. On Monday, the ten delegates will compete in various segments including traditional wear, talent piece, and an evening gown segment. The much-anticipated event hosted by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is held every two years and serves as a platform for empowerment of young Amerindian women. According to information released by the Amerindian Ministry recently, the delegate from Barima-Waini area is 20-year-old Arinna Williams, who hails from Kwebana Village in Region One. Williams who is a proud descendant of the Carib tribe, is currently a teacher within the Ministry of Education who is awaiting her results from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) training programme. Region Two’s representative, more specifically the delegate selected from the beautiful Amerindian settlement of Capoey is 21-year-old Jennel Henry. Henry is a current student at the CPCE and is pursuing an Associate Degree in Primary Education. She is also the youngest elected councillor in her village and serves as the Village Council secretary. Hailing from Santa/ Aratak Mission, the only Amerindian Village in Region Three is Natasha Neblett. According to the ministry, Neblett is a survivor of domestic violence and has transformed her personal struggles into a powerful advocacy platform, focusing on enhancing education and bringing awareness about domestic violence among youths. Representing Region Four – Demerara/Mahaica is 20-year-old O’statia Simon who hails from St. Cuthbert’s Mission/ Pakuri. This proud Arawak beauty recently completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Management from the University of Guyana and is said to be making a meaningful impact at Giving Health to Kids (GHTK) organisation. Competing alongside Simon is another Arawak descendant; 21-year-old Marcelina Budburgh who is representing the only Amerindian community in Region Five, called Moraikobai. Budburgh, a lover for nature is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry at the University of Guyana. Neighbouring Orealla, Region Six representative is Shania Peneux. Peneux who is a strong advocate for promoting eco-tourism is currently a teacher at the Orealla Nursery School and a trainee at CPCE. It was revealed by the Amerindian Ministry that representing the Cuyuni-Mazaruni area is Sylvany Robertson of Paruima Village. Having completed her secondary education at Christ Church Secondary, Robertson is currently a third-year student at the University of Guyana specializing in Microbiology. Hailing from Monkey Mountain Village and representing Region Eight is Sandra Edwards. This 21-year-old who aims to become a medical speech and lanagauge therapist is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health at the Texila American University. Representing Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo on Monday is the Macushi descendant Noreen Alfred. This 22-year-old was born in Aishalton Village and is presently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and Project Management through the Government’s GOAL Scholarship Programme. Joining her on centre stage is 20-year-old Andrena Stoby, a Lokono beauty who hails from River’s View Village, Region 10.  Stoby who has a deep appreciation for her cultural roots is a Registered Nursing Assistant who has plans of advancing her medical profession in the future. Looking forward to see who takes home the title of queen, patrons can secure their tickets at the National Cultural Centre. Tickets are on sale as follow, Auditorium front -$5,000; Auditorium rear – $3,000; and Balcony – $2,500. This year’s Amerindian Heritage Month was held under the theme: “Many Voices, One Song. Celebrating Amerindian Heritage 2024.” Related Similar Articles

Fourteen years of consistency at the same school is led to  academic success – Camille’s Academy 2024 Valedictorian Sep 29, 2024 News ( From Left) Francine Mohar on copping CAI- CSEC Teacher of the Year, Valedictorian Ricardo Bhagwandin, along with his mom Polly Ragnauth and CEO of CAI, Miss Camille Deokie Kaieteur News – The path to success is often fraught with challenges. To achieve greatness, one has to be determined and steadfast in accomplishing their goals. This is perspective of 16-year-old, Ricardo Bhagwandin. The 2024 Valedictorian of Camille’s Academy, Ricardo Bhagwandin copped 14 CSEC subjects The teenager of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, overcame his challenges and emerged as the 2024 valedictorian of Camille’s Academy Inc. (CAI). The feat is a remarkable achievement born from dedication and resilience. The eldest of two children, with a teacher for a mother and a self-employed father, Bhagwandin’s educational journey has been anything but easy. His story began at Camille’s Academy, where he has spent 14 years nurturing his education from Pre-K through Grade 11. “Fourteen years of consistency at the same school should tell a story of its own,” he reflects. After achieving an impressive 475 marks in the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), he was offered a spot at Diamond Secondary. However, his heart was set on remaining at Camille’s Academy, where his roots and foundation was firmly established. At just 12 years old, Bhagwandin embraced a proactive approach to his future by creating a vision board to set his goals. His participation in the ‘YESS Business Basics’ programme, a partnership between Camille’s Academy and Action Coach Guyana, further reinforced his aspirations. This foundational experience shaped his ambitions. However, Bhagwandin explained that the journey was not without its hurdles. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit during his second term in Grade 7, the top student and his classmates had to adapt to online learning. “It was hard; many times, I struggled to keep up, especially with internet challenges,” he recalls. While many learned from home, he utilized the school’s internet facilities, with his mother ensuring he made it to school each day before she headed to work. As he entered his fourth year of high school, he decided to challenge himself by taking 15 subjects for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). Ultimately, he decided to sit for 14 subjects. “My mom reminded me that it was supposed to be 13 subjects, so we dropped one,” he shares. “But I told her, I was doing 14 and working towards getting all Grade Ones,” he shared. The workload was intense. The teen balanced late nights, completing School-Based Assessments (SBAs), and attending extra lessons from Sunday to Sunday, all while managing physical and mental fatigue. He even suffered a wrist fracture, with the cast coming off just a week before his first exam. Yet, he remained focused on his goal: achieving top grades. With a strong support system at his side, Bhagwandin stated, “I contended with the fact that I have people who believed in me so I needed to believe in myself.” Though he never specifically aimed for the valedictorian title, Bhagwandin’s philosophy of giving his all paid off—he achieved outstanding results: 10 Grade Ones, 3 Grade Twos and 1 Grade Three. “If I give it my all and stay dedicated, then success will follow,” he stated, humbly. Bhagwandin expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who supported him along the way. “I owe my academic success to God, my family, my teachers, my friends, and most importantly, my parents as they were relentless in their support of my academics while providing for all my needs,” the young successor confessed. In addition to his academic pursuits, the 2024 valedictorian showcased his talents in robotics, contributing to his school’s success in the Volunteer Youth Corps Inc. (VYC) Robotics competition for two consecutive years. With a clear vision for the future, he is now pursuing an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Guyana, where he hopes to graduate within the next five years. Bhagwandin’s advice to others is simple yet profound: “Always stay focused and work hard. If things don’t go your way, instead of giving up, just keep working, and eventually, things will align.” He firmly believes that “success demands hard work, and a dream will always remain a dream if we don’t set goals and take action to achieve them.” As Ricardo Bhagwandin steps into the next chapter of his life, he stands as a beacon of inspiration for his peers, proving that with determination, dedication, and support, anything is possible. Related Similar Articles

Despite challenges, Albouystown teen determined to achieve financial self-sufficiency Sep 29, 2024 News By Shania Williams Kaieteur News – Some children grow up facing various challenges; many of them are shaped by the influences in their communities, particularly in impoverished areas where survival can force them to beg or steal. Shawn Smith, young and inspiring entrepreneur shares dream of achieving In the heart of Albouystown, Georgetown, 15-year-old Shawn Smith, a student of Dolphin Secondary School has chosen a different path, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and determination for financial independence. In an exclusive interview with The Waterfalls, Smith opened up about the financial struggles his family faces. With his mother as the sole provider for him and his younger brother, he felt compelled to ease her burden. “I decided to create a side business selling hot dogs and burgers to support myself,” he explained. Reflecting on his upbringing, Smith recalls, “I grew up in a poor neighbourhood. People don’t really have much here.” At just 11 years old, he and his friends took initiative, repairing potholes every Sunday to capitalize on the busy bus traffic to earn some cash. “We made it fun, creating our own adventures because when you don’t have much, you have to find something to do.” Shawn also recalled how he and his friends would receive food and gifts from local churches. “We got accustomed to receiving gifts from churches every Christmas.” During that age as well, Smith and friends would approach people and begged for money. However, as his friends moved away and safety concerns grew—”we heard that big people start saying we shouldn’t be doing that because children could get kidnapped”—Smith shifted his focus. In 2022, he began attending church with his grandmother, where he volunteered for fundraising events. It was there that he discovered his knack for food vending. “When I tried to sell some hot dogs for a fundraiser, someone suggested I sell for myself,” he recounted. Encouraged by the support he received, Shawn realized he could generate his own income rather than resorting to illegal activities. “It was better for me to sell food, instead of selling drugs or thieving and begging.” By 2023, the young lad officially launched his catering business, selling hot dogs and burgers. “When I needed something, like a new phone, I knew my parents couldn’t afford it,” he said. “I don’t see it as a business; it’s more of a fundraiser for when I need something for myself.” Smith shared with this publication that he would personally purchase ingredients and prepare the food. However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “People would get angry; they didn’t know why I was going to them,” he admits. “They would say no, but it doesn’t discourage me. I just worry because I don’t know if I will get any sales.” Despite these obstacles, Smith remains resolute. He walks long distances from Albouystown to the Georgetown seawall, navigating the city’s hustle and bustle in search of customers. His resilience is a testament to his character. When asked about his aspirations, Shawn remarked, “Starting a business is very hard. At first, it’s difficult, but as you keep pushing, it gets easier.” His words resonate with anyone striving to carve out their own path. As a young, independent entrepreneur, Shawn Smith embodies the spirit of perseverance and self-reliance. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the face of adversity, determination and hard work can lead to financial independence. Related Similar Articles

NAMS Old Students defeat Current Students in 15-over fund-raiser match   Sep 29, 2024 Sports Kaieteur Sports – Former students of the New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School defeated their current counterparts when the two sides clashed in a 15-over Cricket match at the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground, Canje, recently. The event was a collaborative effort between the Rafeek Kassim-led Board of Governors and the school’s Parent-Teachers Association. The event aimed to raise funds to execute several events and projects the school will be engaged in during the coming months. The old students’ team was led by Kassim and included Ameer Rahaman, Roy Jaffarally, Satanand Mahabir and Suresh Dhanai, among others. It was sponsored by Grill Masters Catering. The current students’ team, which was sponsored by Keane Read of JR Engineering, was led by Michael Newland Jr and included national youth cricketer Tamesh Deonandan to boost the squad. The former students’ batted first and reached a formidable 151 with Roy Jafarally (38) and Satanand Mahabir (24) being the principal scorers. In reply, the present students were held to 75/4 to give the former students victory by 76 runs. Jaffarally was adjudged the man of the match. During the post-match presentation, trophies and prizes were handed over to both teams. Additionally, the school received monetary donations from the Republic Bank, New Amsterdam Branch and several past students of the school. Among the upcoming projects are the annual graduation and prize-giving exercise and the annual inter-house athletics championship. There are also plans to acquire additional chairs and fans for the school’s auditorium, installation of air conditioning units in the classrooms and acquiring additional field materials for the different departments of the school. The day’s event also saw students engaging in several games and social activities while enjoying delicious Bar B Que and non-alcoholic beverages. There was also a mini-exhibition featuring several projects done by the school’s CVQ students.  The school’s steel orchestra – The Multi Marauders, which got second place at the national school’s steel pan competition earlier this year provided musical entertainment for the event. During the day Minister of Finance, Doctor Ashni Singh and Regional officials including Vice Chairman Mr Zamal Hussain and Regional Executive Officer – Mr. Narendra Persaud grace the activity. The Minister and his team were given a tour of the exhibits and were introduced to the two cricket teams. (Samuel Whyte) Related Similar Articles

RHTYSC and NAMILCO renew 1st Division sponsorship for the 5th consecutive year Sep 29, 2024 Sports NAMILCO managing director Bert Sukai hands over sponsorship cheque to RHTYSC Matthew Pottaya in the presence of other officials. Kaieteur Sports – The cricket sponsorship between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club and the National Milling Company of Guyana has been renewed for another year. Representatives of the club Hilbert Foster led a delegation of club members at the company’s Agricola East Bank Demerara office. The announcement of the renewal was done by the NAMILCO managing director Bert Sukai in the presence of RHTYSC NAMILCO player Matthew Pottaya and West Indies under 19 player Denelli Manns and several officials of the company including marketing manager Alicia Anderson. Foster stated that NAMILCO has been the official sponsor of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club under 21 and first division team since 2019 and added that the club was very delighted with the rekindling of the relationship. The longstanding club secretary noted that both teams were very proud to represent the NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour brand on and off the cricket field as the NAMILCO has been a true friend over the years. The RHTYSC NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour first division team has been the most dominant Berbice team over the last few years and has produced numerous plays for Berbice aand Guyana.  A total of 13 club members represented Guyana over the last year while close to 30 were part of Berbice’s teams at the different levels. These players include Kevin Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Shemaine Campbell, Silas Tindell, Sheneta Grimmond, Shabika Gajnabi , Trisha Hardat, Danellie Manns,  Sohail Mohammed and  Romesh Bharat. Foster proudly informed the NAMILCO representatives that the RHTYSC has six members in the 2024 Caribbean Premier League, 3 males and females. Campbell is currently with the West Indies female senior team where she is the vice-captain. Four of the NAMILCO players Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson and Silas Tindell also enjoy contracts at the national level while Campbell Grimmond and Gajnabi have regional contracts. Foster stated that the first division team has only lost one title under the NAMILCO sponsorship and the club is investing heavily in new equipment such as practice Nets,  batting mats, filling practice equipment, bowling machine, junior cricket kits and numerous boxes of cricket balls for training programs. The teams under the leadership of Clinton Pestano were successful in completing over 60 self-development programs under the sponsorship. Among the programs completed were the annual Academy, Awards ceremony, grade 6 summer camp, tribute to medical workers, tribute to town council workers, Tribute to law enforcement officers, Walter Nero tribute to heroes, Jessica Sandia tribute to mothers and the highly popular annual Christmas village. The team also recently from the 14th to the 25th of September hosted the 5th Anniversary celebration of Rose Hall Town in conjunction with the Rose Hall Town Council. Among the 16 events hosted was the awarding of bursary awards to six youths while 16-year old Marissa Siriram received a $250,000 University of Guyana scholarship. The teams on the 29th of October will be hosting a team of medical personnel from the USA for a Medical outreach and will also host their 13th annual Christmas outreach program from December 15th to the 24th. The NAMILCO Managing Director, Bert Sukai, stated that his company was very pleased with the output of the team on and off the field. He noted that the company receives widespread media coverage and it has been a highly successful bonding between the NAMILCO and the RHTYSC. He urged the team to continue playing as a collective unit on the field while working hard off of it to make a positive difference in the lives of others via their self-development programs. Foster and Sukai also discussed the NAMILCO support for the upcoming Say No to drugs alcohol and suicide campaign. The teams presented a unique piece of art done by Sean Bascom as a Thank You-gesture to the company. Among the other players currently playing for the NAMILCO team are Jonathan Rampersaud, Matthew Pottaya Romesh Bharat, Jason Sinclair, Keith Simpson Jeremy Sandia, Keon Sinclair and Rafael McKenzie. (RHTYSC Release) Related Similar Articles