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Illicit trade responsible for billions in losses annually by Private Sector – Chairman Sep 26, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Komal Singh has noted the billions of dollars in revenue that businesses in Guyana suffer annually as a result of illicit trade. Singh was at the time speaking at a conference organised by the PSC on illegal trade on Wednesday. The conference held at the Marriot Hotel in Kingston brought together key stakeholders to address critical aspects of illicit trade, with a particular focus on global perspectives on illicit trade challenges and strengthening public-private partnerships to combat illegal activities. Speaking to stakeholders at the conference, the PSC Chairman noted that smugglers have illegitimately captured between 25 – 50 percent of the market share with goods sold below market value. He noted that these illegal traders have been making difficult for small medium and large scale businesses in Guyana to thrive.  “Currently Guyana is losing billions of dollars in revenue…if we don’t find means to harness and put measures in place to stop that smuggling within the shortest possible time, we can see those numbers continue to rise and it can have a more negative impact on the business community”  Mr. Singh said. As such, the PSC Chairman said that the private sector group has taken the first step by establishing a trade desk to partner with the enforcement arm of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to help intercept persons involved in smuggling. He noted that the Private Sector stands ready to work to develop means and measures to help curb smuggling to make sure that our treasury and businesses are in a position where there is a level playing field and there can be a very competitive environment. Since establishing the desk, the Private Sector Commission through its Trade and Investment Sub Committee met with Guyana Revenue Authority’s Comptroller, Rohan Beekhoo to discuss concerns and share queries related to the work of the Customs Department. Last week, Chairman of the Sub Committee, Clinton Urling informed the team of the recently established Illicit Trade Desk, intends to complement the efforts of the government in tackling illicit trade, through raising awareness and channeling reports of incidences of illicit trade. In his remarks, Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Mathew Langevine  noted that the need for cooperation between stakeholders in the private sector and law enforcement to eliminate illegal trade. “Everyone has to be full on board and so the FIU and other stakeholders within the AML/CFT framework look forward for greater participation and collaboration when it comes on board by the private sector,” Langevine stated. Meanwhile, in his remarks, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn, noted that the outcomes of this seminar are expected to contribute significantly to Guyana’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its economy, protect legitimate businesses, and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.  He noted the need for more collaboration and more people are willing to come forward with information about the perpetrators of smuggling. “We can make a difference, it requires more will, more participation, more consultations, more identification of places and the hotpots and characters involved,” Benn stated. Related Similar Articles

De hurricane coming! Sep 26, 2024 Dem Boys Seh, Features / Columnists, News Kaieteur News – Every time a hurricane come, people seh, “This one nah gon be bad. It gon pass.” But guess what? Nature don’t care ’bout nobody. Dem boys seh de storm deh out deh, growin’ big and bad. De weatherman tell yuh it comin’. But some people still waitin’ fuh last minute to buy water. Like dem don’t know how rain and flood does wuk. Man plan, but nature laugh. Hurricane nah respect man, house, nor machine. Yuh could build a mansion wid concrete, but dat wind gon test it. Dem boys seh yuh could wish and hope and pray all yuh want. But if yuh nah prepare, hurricane gon come fuh yuh. Dis storm gon blow down fence, uproot tree, and rip off roof. And yet, some people does still stand up outside lookin’ at de clouds, like dem never see dark sky before. Dem seh, “It nah gon touch we.” Famous last words. Dem boys seh when a big storm comin’, is de only time yuh does see people rushin’ to de supermarket like dem buying fuh de apocalypse. But up to yesterday, dem same people was on de beach, drinking rum and carryin’ on like hurricane nah exist. Nature don’t care who yuh is. De storm don’t check yuh bank account or yuh passport. It just roll through. It respect nobody. Yuh think because yuh big and bad, yuh can stand up to de hurricane? Think again. Dem boys seh y’all better pray dis one pass quick and light. But even if yuh lucky this time, learn yuh lesson. Take nature serious, because de next one might not be so kind. And if yuh house blow away, yuh gon remember what dem boys seh: Nature don’t care. Storm always deh ready. Yuh better be ready too.  Talk half. Leff half Related Similar Articles

Warriors surge to 47-run win following Hope, Hetmyer fireworks, bowlers touch  Sep 26, 2024 Sports Shimron Hetmyer continued his amazing form at Providence. (CPL) 2024 Caribbean Premier League…  GAW vs BR Kaieteur Sports – Robust half-centuries from Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, backed up by some sublime bowling, took Guyana Amazon Warriors to an easy 47 run win over Barbados Royals last night at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. Batting first in the midst of a jam-packed stadium, Hope led with 71, hammering five sixes and as many fours, sharing an entertaining century stand with Hetmyer who had 57 with four fours and three maximums, laying the foundation for the Warriors daunting 219-8. Opener Azam Khan (26) and finisher Romario Shepherd (23) were the two other main scorers with double figures, with only Sri Lanka finger-spinner Mahesh Theekshana managing to emerge with a good economy rate and 3 wickets for his 15 conceded runs. Chasing a stiff target on the Warriors home turf was never going to be easy, as Barbados found themselves short on 172-9 after 20 overs. Shai Hope finally broke the shackles with a classy knock. (CPL) South Africans, opener Quinton de Kock (35) provided some spark at the top, but failed in the end before a late response from his countryman David Miller, who smoked an unbeaten 71 from 34 with fives huge sixes and 8 fours which helped the Royals salvage a tough loss. Warriors bowling saw Imran Tahir (2-22), Gudakesh Motie (3-38), Dwaine Pretorius (1-19), Mooen Ali (2-16), Shepherd (1-6) easily dismantling their opponents. Apart from the pair of South Africans, mostly Miller, no other batsmen got going for the Royals, resulting in a one-sided affair set up by the Warriors two half-centurions, before being piloted home courtesy of their world-class lot of bowlers. (C.R) Related Similar Articles

Guyana Women make strong claim with 1-1 draw against Host Bermuda Sep 26, 2024 Sports Guyana’s Abosaide Cadogan intercepted Bermuda’s winger in match #3 of the PAHF Challenge on Tuesday. – As PAHF Challenges continues Kaieteur Sports – The Guyana Women’s Hockey team, proudly sponsored by One Communications mobile network, has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak at the ongoing Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) Challenge contested in Hamilton, Bermuda. In their third match of the Challenge, the Guyanese women team secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the host Bermuda, adding to their earlier victories over Brazil and a draw with Paraguay. Decked out in their sleek black uniforms, the Guyana team started with energy and control, dominating the first quarter. Their breakthrough eventually came in the 5th minute, courtesy of a well-executed penalty corner. Sarah Klautky delivered a perfect pass to Clayza Bobb, who quickly returned it, setting up Klautky to powerfully slam it into the back of the net, giving Guyana an early 1-0 lead. Following that commanding performance in the initial part of the match, a green card was then given to left-back Kezia Chinian just before halftime, leaving Guyana down a player. The Bermudians were able to capitalize shortly after with a quick restart, ultimately, the swift Bermudian Georgia Harris was quick to tap one into the net, leveling the score at 1-1. Guyana Ladies gave good fight against Bermudians as scores ended one-all. Undeterred, Guyana regrouped and made several promising attacking runs, showcasing their superior speed and tactical prowess. However, a series of penalties, followed by another green card as well as two yellow cards further put the Guyanese at a disadvantage, considering playing much of the second half with a reduced lineup. Despite these challenges, Guyana held firm, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw. With this result, Guyana now sits tied for second place with Paraguay, both teams earning 5 points each. As they prepare for their next crucial encounter against top-ranked Mexico, Guyana’s position in the tournament remains strong. The upcoming match tomorrow, Friday, June 27th, at 2:45 PM Guyana time will be a defining moment in their 2024 PAHF Challenge campaign. Related Similar Articles

KFC teams up with GCC to host exciting Mini Zingers Cricket Programme Sep 26, 2024 Sports GCC members including President Jonathan Yearwood (third from right) share photo-op yesterday at GCC pavilion marking the official launch of KFC Mini Zingers Cricket programme. Kaieteur Sports – In a bid to foster youth development through sports, KFC Guyana has partnered with the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) to introduce the KFC Mini Zingers Cricket Programme. The initiative is set to kick off on October 5 at the historic Bourda ground. The official launch, held on Wednesday at the GCC pavilion, featured notable figures including GCC President Jonathan Yearwood, Coach Peter Persaud, first division captain Devon Lord, and Speaker of the National Assembly, Mansoor Nadir. Drawing inspiration from similar programme in South Africa, the collaboration aims to engage young aspiring cricketers and help others hone their skills. “We believe that KFC Mini-Cricket is about more than just the game,” said a representative of the KFC franchise. “It’s an opportunity to teach children valuable life skills such as teamwork and discipline, while promoting a balanced, active lifestyle.” The programme, which is open to primary school students, will be held every Saturday from 8:00 am to 9:30 am at GCC ground. Teens and pre-teens interested in participating can collect registration forms from the GCC pavilion. This initiative is set to supersede the previously held August Camp, with greater emphasis on youth engagement, focusing on healthy living and steering participants away from negative influences such as drugs and violence among teenage. Related Similar Articles

75 percent pass rate recorded as GFF referees undergo fitness tests ahead of 2025 FIFA nominations Sep 26, 2024 Sports Kaieteur Sports – A 75 percent pass rate was recorded as 20 referees from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), including eight females, recently participated in a rigorous fitness test, a critical step in meeting FIFA’s nomination criteria for 2025. The test, aimed at assessing physical endurance and agility, forms part of the international body’s requirements for referees aspiring to achieve FIFA certification. Conducted in alignment with FIFA’s standards, the fitness test saw a strong participation rate, with the referees demonstrating their dedication to meeting international benchmarks. According to Lenval Peart, the GFF’s Head Referee, the test is more than just a requirement— it’s a reflection of the referees’ commitment to maintaining top-tier fitness levels throughout the year. “The fitness test is part of FIFA’s criteria, which is essential for the 2025 nomination for referees,” Peart shared. He emphasized that this test is not a one-off occurrence but part of a consistent regimen to ensure referees are in peak physical condition. “This test is mandatory and happens at least three times per year, with random fitness checks. We have a 75 percent pass rate,” he added. He added that the high participation—especially among female referees— reflects the GFF’s drive toward inclusive development within the sport. In tandem with the fitness test, Peart has embarked on a vital refereeing workshop in Trinidad, hosted by CONCACAF, to foster knowledge exchange and strengthen the region’s officiating standards. Taking place from 24 to 26 September 2024, the workshop serves as a crucial platform for capacity building and professional development. Peart expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, underscoring the workshop’s importance for his professional growth and the development of refereeing in Guyana. “I am immensely enthusiastic about this workshop; it’s a fresh initiative from CONCACAF, and it’s always gratifying to be a part of history,” Peart remarked. The workshop will focus on exchanging crucial insights and information that will empower Member Associations to lead their refereeing departments with renewed vigour and purpose in the coming years. “I intend Guyana Football Federation to acquire crucial insights and information from the heads of referees from other Member Associations, who have been in positions of authority for longer than I have,” Peart noted, highlighting the learning opportunities he aims to capitalise on. Peart also stressed the broader strategy behind this initiative, explaining the vital role of referees in the success of the sport. “This head of refereeing workshop represents a vital component of our broader strategy to elevate refereeing standards across our region. As the individual responsible for overseeing the training, education, and development of referees, instructors, and assessors, this workshop is instrumental to the success of our overall goals,” Peart stated. Upon his return to Guyana, Peart plans to channel the knowledge gained at the workshop into elevating the standards of refereeing within the GFF. “I will utilise the knowledge to empower and elevate the standards of our refereeing,” he affirmed. Peart’s leadership in this initiative aligns with the GFF’s broader goals of continuous improvement and capacity building within all levels of football officiating. With ongoing efforts to maintain physical readiness and enhance professional skills, the GFF referees are positioning themselves to not only meet FIFA’s stringent criteria but also to make significant contributions to football’s growth in Guyana and the region. Related Similar Articles

GFF still hiding its deal with BlueWater Shipping and MEYBA clothing company Sep 26, 2024 Sports #HearMeOut By Rawle Toney Kaieteur Sports – Let me first acknowledge the Guyana Football Federation’s (GGF) attempt to portray itself as a beacon of transparency, following their response to my September 15 #HearMeOut column in the Kaieteur News. Rawle Toney While the organisation may proudly wave its compliance with FIFA, CONCACAF, and its annual audits as a badge of honour, I must remind the Federation that ticking a few regulatory boxes doesn’t absolve it from deeper scrutiny. The GFF’s response falls short of addressing the core issues I raised in my previous column, and instead, it reflects a reluctance to engage in an open dialogue regarding the financial dealings that shape the future of football in Guyana. THE BLUEWATER SHIPPING DEAL SECRECY Let’s first address the claims made regarding BlueWater Shipping, a company that is not just a minor player in the global shipping industry but a US multi-billion-dollar corporation. In 2023, BlueWater Shipping made a staggering profit of USD 1.298 billion, a testament to its significant influence and resources. Furthermore, during 2022, their turnover skyrocketed by 37%, climbing from USD 970 million to USD 1.3 billion. Given these figures, the question arises: why is the Guyana Football Federation so hesitant to disclose the details of its partnership with such a powerful entity, which will have naming rights to the proposed football facility at Durban Park? The assertion that “large corporations have the right to determine what information they wish to protect” is a half-hearted excuse for the GFF’s lack of transparency. If the GFF, under President Wayne Forde’s leadership, genuinely values accountability, then it should make the details of the BlueWater Shipping deal public. All stakeholders—fans, players, sponsors, and local businesses—have a right to understand the terms and implications of a partnership with a company that wields such economic power. This is especially pertinent given the GFF’s assertions of good governance. If the GFF wants to be seen as transparent and accountable, they must be willing to open the books on this significant deal. THE MEYBA DEAL Now, let’s address the absurdity of the MEYBA deal. We’re talking about a five-year kit arrangement with a brand that doesn’t supply a single national team globally. How is it that a deal of this nature is shrouded in secrecy? What exactly are the terms here that are so sensitive, so precarious, that the GFF can’t make them public? It’s virtually unheard of for a national football federation to engage in such a lengthy partnership with a kit supplier of this obscurity without full disclosure. In my last column, I pointed to Jamaica’s kit deal with Adidas, where the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) negotiated a lucrative agreement reportedly worth US$1.2 million annually in cash, plus US$2 million in apparel and a 20% royalty on sales of Jamaica-related merchandise. This level of transparency sets a strong example for how national football organizations should operate. This is not just a matter of concern for me; it is a pressing issue for all stakeholders invested in the future of Guyanese football. Transparency in sports is not merely a buzzword; it is an essential principle that underpins trust between governing bodies and the communities they serve. If the GFF continues to operate behind closed doors, it risks alienating the very supporters who passionately rally behind our national teams. Football thrives on community involvement, and when the governing body prioritizes confidentiality over openness, it erodes the trust that fans have in the administration. The GFF’s statement about adhering to FIFA and CONCACAF regulations does little to assuage concerns about the GFF’s commitment to transparency. Adherence to these regulations is a baseline requirement; it does not absolve the GFF of the responsibility to communicate openly with the public, and the Media, regarding significant financial agreements. Publishing audits and reports is commendable, but they should not serve as a substitute for genuine engagement with stakeholders. The GFF mention that “all major decisions within the GFF are made following thorough consultation with the General Council and key stakeholders.” I challenge the GFF to prove this claim by providing concrete examples of how feedback has influenced decisions surrounding the BlueWater Shipping and MEYBA agreements. If there are indeed consultations taking place, it would be beneficial for the GFF to release minutes or summaries of these discussions, showcasing the dialogue with stakeholders and the rationale behind critical decisions. The GFF’s commitment to “promote transparency, accountability, and integrity” rings hollow if the GFF continues to prioritize corporate confidentiality over stakeholder engagement. If the GFF is to be a beacon of good governance, then it must lead by example, demonstrating that it values the input and concerns of the football community. The football community deserves to know the details of the BlueWater Shipping deal and the MEYBA kit agreement. It is time for the GFF to step out of the shadows and engage in a meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. Only then can we hope to rebuild the trust that is essential for the growth and success of football in Guyana. Related Similar Articles