Machel Montano, Kes Extend Support for Hurricane Beryl Victims

/0 Comments/in /by

BY NAN ET Editor

News Americas, New York, NY, July 8, 2024: In the wake of the devastation and deaths caused by Hurricane Beryl across the Caribbean, especially in Grenada’s Petite Martinique, Carriacou, Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica, soca star Machel Montano has expressed his readiness to support the affected communities.

Machel Montano performs onstage during Day 2 of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola at Caesars Superdome on July 06, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Josh Brasted/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

Writing on Instagram, the soca king said: “Sending out prayers for our Caribbean brothers and sisters affected by Hurricane Beryl. . St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Bequia, Grenada, Carriacou, Barbados, Tobago, Jamaica… and all others affected or still in her path. Together we stand ready to support wherever and however we can!”

Fellow soca artist Kes also shared his support, sending “prayers to every Caribbean country currently affected and in the path of Hurricane Beryl” and encouraging “all to come together as a community in a trying time like this for those in need.”

The messages from Montano and Kes reflect a strong sense of solidarity within the Caribbean music community, emphasizing the importance of unity and mutual support in the face of natural disasters. As the region continues to recover, the support from influential figures like these soca stars is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Caribbean spirit.

Beryl has been blamed for at least 7 deaths across the Caribbean even as the scope of the damage is coming into focus in the Windward Islands, which took the brunt of the storm’s wrath when Beryl was near peak strength.

Beryl damaged around 95% of all homes in Mayreau and Union Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as well as in Carriacou and Petite Martinique in Grenada, where it made landfall on July 1st.

The island of Carriacou in Grenada has been virtually “flattened” by the devastating Hurricane Beryl, reported a senior UN official on Friday, July 5th, as humanitarian teams intensify support to affected Caribbean communities.

Speaking via video link from Grenada, Simon Springett, UN Resident Coordinator in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, described a scene of total devastation in Carriacou, where Beryl made landfall on July 1st.

“The entire island is completely affected … that is literally 100 percent of the population,” he emphasized.

Hurricane Beryl, the strongest June hurricane in Atlantic history, transformed from a tropical depression to a Category 4 storm, briefly reaching Category 5 status with winds up to 240 km/h (150 mph).

Nations near and far are dispatching aid. A French ship arrived in Carriacou later on Friday, along with assistance from Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, according to Mr. Springett.

“We have a large outpouring of international response … it is really an international effort, and the UN is proud to be a part of this,” he said.

The damage extends to rural Jamaica, particularly in the southern parishes of Clarendon, Manchester, and Saint Elizabeth.

Food For The Poor (FFTP) is assessing needs and responding with emergency relief supplies in Jamaica to help families affected by Hurricane Beryl, which blew off roofs, knocked out power, and battered the country with intense wind and rain on Wednesday.

Before Beryl approached, FFTP-Jamaica prepositioned food items in areas that could be cut off during the storm.

Critical aid ready for deployment includes:

Disaster preparedness kits for 500 families

16 containers of food

Six containers of healthcare supplies

Five containers of other essential items

A water filter unit from partner Water Mission with the capacity to filter up to 10,000 gallons of water per day

“Our distribution network in Jamaica reaches more than 30 end points, typically churches,” said FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine. “We have a very large network to distribute aid.”

FFTP is also assessing needs in the southeastern Caribbean islands devastated by Beryl on Monday.

The charity prepositioned disaster preparedness kits in St. Lucia, Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago to empower local response, each kit containing supplies for at least 250 families. Many countries are supporting each other through the network partner Caritas Antilles.

Cash donations are encouraged to expedite the delivery of aid and to make in-country purchases, assisting FFTP partners with grants. Support FFTP’s response at foodforthepoor.org/hurricaneberyl.

These Are The Athletes Representing Jamaica at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games

/0 Comments/in /by

By NAN Sports Editor

News Americas, New York, NY, July 8, 2024: The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, (JAAA), has announced its star-studded line-up for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, showcasing a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Here are the athletes who will be representing Jamaica on the global stage:

Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, seen crossing the finish line during the women’s 4x100m relay heats during the World Athletics Championships at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest on August 25, 2023 returns to the 2024 Olympics. (Photo by Attila KISBENEDEK / AFP) (Photo by ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP via Getty Images)

Sprints:

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: Making her fifth Olympic appearance since her debut in Beijing 2008.
Kishane Thompson: The fastest man in the world this year, headlining the men’s 100m team.
Oblique Seville and Ackeem Blake: Key contenders in the men’s 100m.
Tia Clayton, Lanae-Tava Thomas, and Niesha Burgher: Making their Olympic debuts in the women’s sprints.

Hurdles:

Janeek Brown and Ackera Nugent: Newcomers in the hurdles, joined by two-time world champion Danielle Williams.
Orlando Bennett, Rasheed Broadbell, and Hansle Parchment: Competing in the men’s 110m hurdles.
Rushell Clayton, Shiann Salmon, and Janieve Russell: Representing Jamaica in the women’s 400m hurdles.
Roshawn Clarke, Jaheel Hyde, and Malik James-King: Competing in the men’s 400m hurdles.

Middle-Distance:

Natoya Goule-Toppin and Adelle Tracey: Competing in the women’s 800m, with Tracey also running the 1500m.
Navasky Anderson: Representing Jamaica in the men’s 800m.

Field Events:

Romaine Beckford: NCAA National Division One high jump champion making his Olympic debut.
Lamara Distin: Joining Beckford in the high jump.
Chanice Porter and Ackelia Smith: Competing in the women’s long jump.
Tajay Gayle, Carey McLeod, and Wayne Pinnock: Representing the men’s long jump.
Shanieka Ricketts, Kimberly Williams, and Ackelia Smith: Competing in the women’s triple jump.
Jaydon Hibbert and Jordan Scott: Representing the men’s triple jump.
Samantha Hall: Competing in the women’s discus throw.
Roje Stona, Ralford Mullings, and Traves Smikle: Representing the men’s discus throw, with Fedrick Dacres as a reserve.
Lloydricia Cameron and Danniel Thomas-Dodd: Competing in the women’s shot put.
Rajindra Campbell: Representing the men’s shot put.
Nayoka Clunis: Competing in the women’s hammer throw.

400m

Junelle Bromfield, Stacey Ann Williams, and Nickisha Pryce: Representing the women’s 400m, with Stephenie Ann McPherson as a reserve.
Sean Bailey, Deandre Watkin, and Jevaughn Powell: Competing in the men’s 400m, with Rusheen McDonald as a reserve.

Relays:

Women’s 4x100m Relay Team: Tia Clayton, Shashalee Forbes, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Shericka Jackson, with Alana Reid as a reserve.
Men’s 4x100m Relay Team: Ackeem Blake, Jehlani Gordon, Oblique Seville, and Kishane Thompson, with Jelani Walker as a reserve.
Women’s 4x400m Relay Team: Junelle Bromfield, Stephenie Ann McPherson, Nickisha Pryce, and Stacey Ann Williams, with Ashley Williams as a reserve.
Mixed 4x400m Relay Team: Andrenette Knight, Charokee Young, Zandrian Barnes, and Raheem Hayles, with Stephenie Ann McPherson and Kimar Farquharson as reserves.

Three New Caribbean Flights to Know

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, July 8, 2024: Travel enthusiasts have three exciting new flight options to the Caribbean, enhancing accessibility to some of the region’s most beloved destinations. From New York to St. Martin, San Francisco to Belize City, and Miami to Ocho Rios, these routes promise to make Caribbean getaways more convenient and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know about these new flights.

New York to Saint Martin
Starting December 7, American Airlines is introducing a weekly non-stop flight from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to St. Martin’s Princess Juliana International Airport. The Airbus A319 service will make it easier for New Yorkers to enjoy the French side’s renowned restaurants, beautiful beaches, and boutique accommodations.

San Francisco to Belize City
United Airlines is launching a non-stop flight from San Francisco to Belize City on December 21. This new route aims to boost tourism from the West Coast and connect Belize with major Asian markets via San Francisco. Travelers can explore Belize’s rich history, stunning reefs, and vibrant culture with this convenient new service.

Miami to Ocho Rios
American Airlines will begin daily non-stop flights from Miami to Jamaica’s Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios starting December 5. This new service significantly reduces travel time, offering direct access to one of Jamaica’s most luxurious and iconic destinations, known for its upscale resorts and beautiful coves.

Water Mission Responds with Emergency Safe Water for People in the Caribbean Displaced by Hurricane Beryl

/0 Comments/in /by

NEWS AMERICAS, CHARLESTON, S.C., Fri. July 05, 2024: Water Mission, a Christian engineering non-profit, is responding to the ongoing destruction from Hurricane Beryl impacting multiple countries throughout the Caribbean region, including Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, and heading toward Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

A Water Mission Disaster Assistance Response Team has been deployed to Grenada, bringing safe water treatment equipment with the ability to meet daily safe water needs for thousands of people. Union Island, part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was particularly hard hit, with the country’s Prime Minister recently sharing that 90 percent of structures, including homes, have been destroyed. Water Mission is actively coordinating water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) efforts with local government authorities.

“Waterborne diseases are a critical concern in the days and weeks after a disaster,” said Water Mission CEO and President George C. Greene IV, PE. “Water Mission’s Disaster Assistance Response Team is well versed in quickly mobilizing and collaborating with partners on the ground to bring emergency safe water as quickly as possible where it is needed most.”

Hurricane Beryl is the earliest category five storm to ever form in the Atlantic Ocean and has caused deaths and displaced thousands of people across several countries. It is expected to hit Mexico today as a weakened, yet still destructive, storm that will bring high winds and potential flash flooding. Water Mission has in-country offices in Mexico with established WASH programs. Staff and resources in the region have mobilized to help assess and respond to emerging safe water needs as they arise.

Water Mission has more than 20 years of experience responding to natural disasters and humanitarian crises with immediate and long-term safe water solutions. Over the last two years, Water Mission has responded to flooding in East Africa, earthquakes in Turkey, flooding in Pakistan, cholera outbreaks in Malawi, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Water Mission’s global operations have served more than 8 million people since 2001.

Click here to learn more about Water Mission’s Hurricane Beryl disaster response efforts as the organization rushes staff and equipment to get clean, safe water flowing where it’s needed most for displaced men, women, and children.

About Water Mission
Water Mission is a Christian engineering nonprofit that builds sustainable safe water solutions for people in developing countries, refugee camps, and disaster areas. Since 2001, Water Mission has served more than 8 million people in more than 60 countries, sharing safe water and the message of God’s love. Water Mission’s global headquarters is in North Charleston, SC, and the organization serves people in Africa; Asia; and North, South, and Central America. Charity Navigator has awarded Water Mission its top four-star rating 17 years in a row, a distinction shared by less than 1% of the charities rated by the organization. To learn more, visit watermission.org, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, or Twitter.

Copyright ©

Online Gambling Surge in the Caribbean Ensures Casino Safe Gaming Measures

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. July 5, 2024: The rise of online gambling in the Caribbean has been a topic of much interest and discussion. With more people turning to digital platforms for entertainment, the need for stringent safety measures has become paramount. This article explores the various safe gambling measures that have been put in place to ensure a secure gaming environment.

Understanding the Growth of Online Gambling

The Caribbean’s online gambling industry has experienced exponential growth, driven by technological advancements and increased internet accessibility. Various countries within the region have embraced this trend, providing their citizens with a plethora of online casino options. The popularity of platforms such as Betway Ghana is indicative of this booming industry. However, with this surge comes the responsibility of ensuring that players are protected from potential risks associated with gambling.

The growth of online gambling in the Caribbean accelerated in recent years, with many gamblers turning to online platforms for entertainment. This shift has led to a surge in new online casino operators entering the market, increasing competition and driving innovation in game offerings and user experience. As a result, Caribbean regulators have had to adapt quickly to ensure that these new entrants comply with safe gambling standards and protect consumers in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Importance of Safe Gambling Measures

With the rapid increase in online gambling activities, ensuring player safety on sites like Betway Ghana has become a top priority for regulatory bodies across the Caribbean. Authorities are now implementing stringent measures to promote responsible gaming and protect vulnerable individuals. For instance, new regulations require online casinos to offer self-exclusion programs and limit-setting features, enabling players to manage their gambling habits more effectively.

Another critical aspect of safe gambling measures in the Caribbean is the implementation of strict age verification processes. Online casinos are now required to use advanced identity verification technologies to ensure that underage individuals cannot access their platforms. This includes multi-step verification procedures and the use of third-party age verification services. By preventing minors from gambling online, these measures help protect vulnerable youth and promote responsible gaming practices across the region.

Why It Matters

Safe gambling measures are crucial because they help maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of the online gambling industry. By implementing these regulations, authorities can prevent issues such as addiction and financial loss, which can have severe consequences on individuals and their families. Furthermore, these measures ensure that online casinos operate fairly and transparently, fostering a positive gaming experience for all users.

The relevance of safe gambling measures extends beyond individual player protection to the broader economic landscape of the Caribbean. As online gambling becomes an increasingly significant source of revenue for many Caribbean nations, maintaining a reputable and well-regulated industry is crucial for attracting foreign investment and sustaining economic growth. Safe gambling measures help build trust in the Caribbean’s digital economy, positioning the region as a responsible and attractive destination for both players and businesses in the global online gaming market.

Key Takeaways

If you are considering engaging in online gambling within the Caribbean, it is essential to stay informed about the latest safe gambling practices. Make sure to choose platforms that adhere to regulatory standards and provide adequate support for responsible gaming. Additionally, take advantage of tools such as self-exclusion programs and setting limits on your deposits and wagers to ensure a balanced approach to your gaming activities.

The rise of online gambling in the Caribbean underscores the importance of implementing robust safe gambling measures. As this industry continues to grow, staying informed about these regulations will help ensure a secure and enjoyable gaming experience.

U.S. Reiterates Support For Haiti

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Tues July 2, 2024: US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken today welcomed new Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille and Foreign Minister Dominique Dupuy to Washington, emphasizing the strong support of the United States for Haiti during a pivotal time in the nation’s history.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (3L) meets with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille (2R) and Haitian Foreign Minister Dominique Dupuy (3R) at the State Department in Washington, DC, on July 2, 2024. (Photo by DREW ANGERER/AFP via Getty Images)

The meeting also highlighted the deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission, led by Kenya, to assist the Haitian National Police in restoring control over critical areas of Port-au-Prince and the broader country.

Blinken underscored the importance of Haiti’s transition towards free and fair elections and the essential role of international support in this process. He commended Prime Minister Conille’s leadership and expressed optimism about the positive impact of the Transitional Presidential Council and the newly established government.

The Secretary of State also noted the United States’ readiness to provide assistance to Haiti and other partners in the region in the event of any damage caused by Hurricane Beryl, which is being closely monitored.

Prime Minister Conille expressed gratitude for the continued solidarity and support from the American people and President Biden. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but says he remains confident in Haiti’s ability to overcome them with the new governmental structures in place.

TPS For Haitians

The meeting comes on the heels of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants for an additional 18 months. This extension is critical for the many Haitian nationals who have sought refuge in the United States due to ongoing violence and environmental disasters in their homeland.

TPS is a designation that allows foreign-born individuals who cannot return to their home countries safely due to armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions to stay in the U.S. temporarily. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas noted in a recent release that several regions in Haiti continue to face severe challenges, including violence, lack of access to basic necessities, and frequent natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

Originally set to expire on August 4, 2024, Haiti’s TPS designation has now been extended until February 3, 2026. This allows Haitian immigrants to remain in the United States with work authorization and protection from deportation.

Haitians currently holding TPS have until August 29 to re-register, while those eligible to apply for the first time can do so until February 2026. This extension is expected to benefit an estimated 309,000 Haitian nationals, provided they have been residing in the U.S. since before June 3, 2024.

Hurricane Beryl Death Toll Rises To Four

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, July 2, 2024: Hurricane Beryl has claimed at least four lives in the Caribbean as it slammed into Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a category four hurricane Monday.

Hurricane Beryl devastation in Carriacou, Grenada. Dexter Leggard/Facebook image

In Grenada, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell earlier today said so far, the death toll there from the devastating storm, is three – two on the island of Carriacou and one on the mainland of Grenada. Efforts are being made to secure a helicopter to reach Carriacou, where the hurricane made land fall, due to rough seas hampering Coast Guard operations.

Hurricane Beryl devastation in Carriacou, Grenada. Dexter Leggard/Facebook image

“There is widespread destruction and possibly more fatalities,” Mitchell said, adding that internal movement between Carriacou and Petite Martinique remains restricted.

Hurricane Beryl devastation in Carriacou, Grenada. Dexter Leggard/Facebook image

Meanwhile, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves confirmed one death on the island of Bequia and warned that more fatalities could occur. Gonsalves described the hurricane as “devastating and dangerous,” causing immense destruction and suffering across the nation. Union Island has been particularly hard hit, with 90% of homes severely damaged or destroyed.

Gonsalves reported significant damage to buildings, including the airport and government facilities, and a severe impact on the housing sector. The island is currently without electricity and facing water shortages, but efforts are underway to restore these services.

In response to the disaster, Gonsalves announced the reopening of government facilities and encouraged businesses to resume operations, acknowledging the challenges faced by employees whose homes were damaged. He highlighted the support from regional countries and the need for a coordinated rebuilding effort.

Prime Minister Gonsalves acknowledged the need for financial resources to support the rebuilding efforts. “We have some resources in the Contingency Fund, but it will not be sufficient. We will have to raise other monies and borrow on concessional terms,” he said, highlighting the limited availability of grants.

JAMAICA

At 5:00 PM EDT, Hurricane Beryl was moving west-northwest at about 22 mph (35 km/h) and is expected to maintain this trajectory through Wednesday, before turning more westward on Wednesday night or Thursday. The forecast indicates that Beryl will swiftly cross the central Caribbean Sea tonight, passing near or over Jamaica on Wednesday. The center is anticipated to approach the Cayman Islands on Wednesday night or early Thursday and near the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico by Thursday night.

Beryl has maximum sustained winds of approximately 155 mph (250 km/h), with higher gusts, making it a Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Although some weakening is expected over the next day or two, Beryl is projected to remain near major hurricane strength as it passes close to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Further weakening is expected thereafter, though Beryl is likely to stay a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean.

A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the south coast of Haiti from the border with the Dominican Republic to Anse d’Hainault.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the south coast of Dominican Republic from Punta Palenque westward to the border with Haiti and the south coast of Haiti from the border with the Dominican Republic to Anse d’Hainault.

WHAT CAN WEST INDIES CRICKET LEADERSHIP LEARN FROM AFGHANISTAN’S FAIRYTALE STORY

/0 Comments/in /by

By Dr. Basil Springer

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. July 1, 2024: In a thrilling twist of fate, the Afghanistan national cricket team made it to the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semifinals, while the more experienced West Indies team did not. Their extraordinary journey has captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.

Andre Russell of West Indies looks on during the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024 Super Eight match between West Indies and South Africa at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on June 23, 2024 in Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda. The West Indies lost and failed to advance. (Photo by Jan Kruger-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

As a passionate supporter of West Indies cricket, I find myself reflecting on the lessons our leadership can draw from this fairytale ascent. Their success is not solely attributed to their batting, bowling and fielding skills but also to their passion, persistence, patience and unyielding desire to win.

West Indies leadership, on the other hand, overlooked several vital elements crucial for success. These include the importance of fostering a strong bond and positive team spirit by keeping the team together well ahead of major events, the strategy to minimize early wicket losses in the opening power play, and understanding the psychological effects of frequent personnel changes on team spirit. In addition, the team should address the dot ball challenge and the ripple effect of disappointing performances on the fans.

Afghanistan’s play offers a masterclass in disciplined cricket. Their players approach batting with a calculated strategy, prioritizing singles and runs between the wicket over reckless attempts to clear the stands without settling in. This patient, intelligent approach contrasts sharply with the sometimes overly aggressive tactics we’ve seen from the West Indies. It’s a poignant reminder that, in cricket and life alike, a steady, measured path leads to success.

Moreover, their bowlers exemplify precision and consistency, with each delivery thoughtfully planned not just to take wickets but to control the game’s pace. This high level of discipline and focus is something our bowlers could emulate. It’s about more than raw talent. It’s about harnessing that talent with a clear, unwavering mental strategy.

However, the Afghan team’s palpable hunger for success truly sets it apart. They play with a fire that suggests they have everything to prove and nothing to lose. This kind of drive is invaluable. In any field, when hiring for a job, you might find a candidate with exceptional skills, but it’s the one with hunger and passion who will go the extra mile. This passion is the mentality we need to nurture within our own ranks.

As West Indies fans, we have always had a soft spot for the underdogs, and Afghanistan’s journey is a perfect underdog story. Yet, as we admire their rise, we must also absorb the lessons they teach. Our team possesses the talent and the potential. We need the heart, the discipline and the unwavering desire to win that Afghanistan has shown the world. By embracing these qualities, we can perhaps reignite the glory of West Indies cricket and chart our path to greatness.

In celebrating Afghanistan’s journey, we must ask ourselves: do we have the same hunger and burning desire to rise again and reclaim our place at the pinnacle of world cricket? If the answer is uncertain, we must consider what are the next steps.

Congratulations to India and South Africa on an enthralling final at Kensington Oval over the weekend. Special kudos to India, who take the coveted trophy to Asia after an undefeated performance in the Caribbean!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a Change-Engine Consultant. His email address is ba*****@ma*******************.com. His columns may be found at nothingbeatsbusiness.com/basil-springer-column and on facebook.com/basilgf.

Guyana Earns $1.4 Billion in 50/50 Profit Share While Oil Companies Report $7.8 Billion in Profits

/0 Comments/in /by

Commentary By Darshanand Khusial

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. July 1, 2024: If you and a partner invest in a boat and decide to split profits equally, you will feel cheated if her share is much greater than 50%.

For instance, if from the day’s catch of 200 pounds of fish, you both decide that 100 pounds of fish should cover the expenses such as bait and fuel, then there will be a profit of 100 pounds of fish to share. Your profit take will be 50 pounds and hers will also be 50 pounds.

Exxon and its partners in the Stabroek Block have a 50/50 profit-sharing agreement with Guyana for extracting our oil. However, when looking at the 2023 accounting profit numbers for the oil companies compared to what was deposited in the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) for Guyana, one would question how this can be a 50/50 profit-sharing agreement?

In a Stabroek Article on Feb 10th, 2023 titled, Renegotiating PSA would be ‘very destructive’ to investor confidence – Routledge, the President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge in response to this question, “There is a wide public view that Exxon and its partners are benefiting from the 11 billion barrels of oil more than Guyanese.” is said to have made this point, ” he [Routledge] was quick to point out that the view is unrealistic as the Guyanese people are benefiting more from the deal than the investors. He said it is very clear that under the Stabroek Block PSA, 50% of the profit goes to the country and 50% goes to investors. He noted that an additional 2% from the investors’ share goes towards the payment of royalty which results in Guyanese receiving a total of 52% of profit oil.“

The industrious Chris Ram has published a trio of articles on the 2023 financials of the oil companies, adding to his masterpiece of 132 columns on Oil & Gas, see HERE. If one extracts the 2023 pre-tax profit for the oil companies from his articles, they add up to US$7.8 billion. Now, one would expect in a 50/50 profit share, Guyana in 2023 would receive US$3.9 billion (US$7.8 billion divided by 2) in profits. However, according to the 2023 Natural Resource Fund, Guyana’s 2023 share of profits was only US$1.4 billion. To put it another way, Guyana collected 17.9% of the total reported profits of US$7.8 billion reported in the 2023 oil companies’ financials (see chart below).

Exxon has a billboard claiming Guyana receives 52% of all profits from the Stabroek Block. The 17.9% of profits Guyana received in 2023 appears to invalidate this claim. The perception among Guyanese that Exxon and its partners benefit much more from our oil seems to be accurate based on the 2023 financials of the oil companies.

We can’t pay our teachers a living wage, and 40% or more of our population can’t afford enough protein to eat. The government should explain, how in a 50/50 profit share agreement, Guyana only received US$1.4 billion while the oil companies reported total profits of US$7.8 billion. The government has refused to renegotiate the lopsided Stabroek Block contract. Is it more worried about Exxon’s investor confidence than the plight of Guyanese?

EDITOR’S NOTE: Darshanand Khusial is a director of the non-profit Oil and Gas Governance Network, OGGN

Hurricane Beryl Forces Postponement of CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, July 1, 2024: As the dangerous Category Four Hurricane Beryl roared through the Windward Islands Monday, delivering violent winds, intense rainfall, and life-threatening storm surges, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) postponed its 47th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, originally scheduled for Grenada from July 3-5.

Sea water splashes on the rocks as hurricane Beryl passes near to Bridgetown, Barbados on July 1, 2024. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

Beryl made landfall shortly after 11:00 a.m. EDT today on Carriacou Island in the Grenadines, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph. The storm triggered power outages, flooded streets, and caused storm surge flooding in parts of the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, and Tobago, according to the National Hurricane Center.

“The primary focus of the Community is now on citizen safety and security. Several Member States, including host nation Grenada, are now engaged in emergency preparations and planning to address the aftermath of the hurricane,” CARICOM said in a statement. “We implore everyone in the path of this hurricane to take all necessary protective measures. The Community stands ready to support our Member States which will be affected by this dangerous hurricane.”

Beryl is the strongest known hurricane to pass through this region, according to data from NOAA that dates back to 1851. Its arrival marks an exceptionally early start to the Atlantic hurricane season. On Sunday, it became the earliest Category 4 on record in the Atlantic Ocean and the only Category 4 in the month of June. The unusually warm ocean waters that facilitated Beryl’s rapid strengthening indicate that this hurricane season will be far from normal in a world warming due to fossil fuel pollution.

“Beryl is breaking records for June because the ocean is as warm now as it would normally be at the peak of hurricane season,” said Jim Kossin, a hurricane expert and science advisor at nonprofit First Street Foundation.