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  • READ: President Ali’s full address for Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary

    READ: President Ali’s full address for Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary

    See below the full address by President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the flag raising ceremony for Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary: 

    Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Chief Justice, members of Cabinet, members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic community, our most honourable men and women in uniform, fellow Guyanese,

    Today, across every town, village, savannah and riverbank of this blessed land, the flag of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana flies in proud defiance of history’s injustices, foreign ambitions and every force that ever dared to doubt our worth.

    On this, the 59th anniversary of our Independence, we not only commemorate a special day, but also renew our fervent covenant, a covenant forged in struggle, sanctified by law and sustained by the unbreakable will of our one people. Independence is not an idle claim. It is the full and final declaration that a people will govern themselves, chart their own course and defend what is rightfully theirs. It is a drumbeat of sovereignty, the heartbeat of liberty.

    On the morning of May 26 1966, Guyana stepped forward, no longer a colonial appendage, but a free and sovereign nation. And with that, came the unequivocal proclamation, and I quote, “Guyana shall be a sovereign, democratic state. The territory of Guyana shall comprise all the areas that immediately before the 26th of May, 1966, were comprised in the former colony of British Guyana.”

    That territory, my sisters and brothers, was not drawn by whim and fancy. It was defined by the arbitral award of 1899, a binding legal instrument, recognised by international law and reaffirmed by the global community.

    To quote Dave Martins, it includes “every mountain, every stream, every river, every blade of grass that belongs to we”. They’re ours, not as a gift, but as a right not to be surrendered, not to be sold, not to be stolen.

    And so let it be heard across continents and oceans, in every hall of power and peace, that the territory of Guyana is a settled fact of history and law.

    We are not aggressors. We are protectors. But let no one mistake our peacefulness for weakness. If our sovereignty is challenged, if our land is threatened, we shall rise as One Nation, One People, One Destiny. We shall rise not in fear, but in fierce loyalty to the land that gave us birth and which we love unconditionally. We shall defend this nation with every beat of our hearts, every muscle in our bodies, every fibre of our souls. We will never waver, never falter, never surrender.

    Guyana, tomorrow is rising, rising with glory. Let this rise humble us, unify us and strengthen us as each other’s keeper.

    Let this prosperity not present us as arrogant people, but people bonded together with a strong sense of responsibility of what is required of us in the family of humanity.

    We look backwards, not to be entrapped, but to fortify ourselves for what lies ahead of us.

    My fellow Guyanese, independence was never just a matter of geography or autonomy. It was a sacred promise, a pledge that the people of Guyana, regardless of race, religion, class or creed, would together build a future rooted in dignity, equity and equality of opportunity.

    We have walked the road for 59 years, sometimes with a sure footing, sometimes unsteadily, but never, never separately and never hesitantly.

    Now our path forward is clear. The road to prosperity lies before us. We need only hold each other’s hands and march steadfastly to our common goal—a developed Guyana in whose bounty all must share. We are on the cusp of magnificent achievements. We are no longer a nation seeking development. We are a nation moving rapidly to accomplish it, and ensuring no one is left behind. From the forest of the Rupununi to the coastline of Berbice, real progress is evident. We are building schools, not just for today’s children, but for tomorrow’s thinkers, builders and leaders.

    We’re expanding healthcare, no longer as a privilege for a few, but a right of all, delivered with fairness, not favour. We are reshaping infrastructure, not for prominence, but for purpose, not to impress, but to empower, not as aspiration, but as achievement, visible, tangible and lived every day in the lives of our Guyanese people.

    My sisters and brothers in East Berbice Corentyne, a region long rich in potential, transformation is now a reality. Here is just an example of what is happening: roads are being built, bridges are being built not just to connect places but to connect people to possibilities and opportunities. Technical training and hospitality institutes are rising, not just to teach skills, but to open new frontiers of employment and enterprise. There’s also a new canal to tame the floodwaters, a new airport on the horizon to lift commerce, and a second gas-to-shore energy project on the way to power the next Industrial wave. These are not just promises. These are your lived realities, and soon, a modern stadium and commercial centre will add a new dimension to a growing and dynamic economy. No part of Guyana will be omitted or ignored.

     

    My fellow Guyanese,

    The oil beneath our seas may be the spark, but the enduring fire of our progress is the Guyanese people, all the Guyanese people, from Lethem to Linden, from Anna Regina to Bartica. Our One Guyana vision means that every citizen will share fully and fairly in a nation’s wealth, not by chance, but by deliberate policy, not tomorrow, but now.

    The coming years will be marked by even harder work as we continue building the blocks of transformation. Our infrastructural transformation is beyond anyone’s wildest imagination. We are transforming our infrastructure to connect Guyana with our neighbours, to promote trade, to increase the economic space in which we operate, to expand our markets and to remove the constraints that exist within our country. We are investing in these infrastructure to improve connectivity between regions and communities across Guyana. We are upgrading community infrastructure to improve the quality of life and to build household equity. These are the elements of infrastructure transformation that we are going to take forward. We are building an energy infrastructure and transforming our energy landscape to ensure energy security for the long term, to improve our competitiveness and to build prosperity in every home and in the lives of every citizen. We are advancing our agenda for cleaner and more renewable sources of power.

    We are going to continue to work to reduce the cost of electricity so that Guyanese households and businesses can enjoy the fact that we are an energy-rich and secure country. We’re going to leverage our energy surplus to create jobs, add value to our national richness and create higher value goods and services. These are the aspects of our energy transformation that we are going to continue to invest in so that we can position Guyana as the energy hub of the Region.

    Energy must be equally followed by investments in climate change. We are investing in the future to ensure climate considerations are a priority. Building our climate adaptation infrastructure for greater resilience, expanding our sea and river defence system—to protect our coastal land, to protect our farmers, to protect our businesses.  Investing in drainage and irrigation.  To expand agriculture and open up new opportunities, new land, so that we can expand our production and productivity. We are building smartly. We are building smart infrastructure, climate-resilient infrastructure.

    Of course, the financial transformation is critical for the modern Guyana that we are building. Greater financial inclusion and financial independence for all is a priority of the future, so that we can increase disposable income; so that we can support the vulnerable segments of our population, including our children, women and the elderly.

    We have to transform our financial system so that we can create more business opportunities. We can deploy more capital at every level of our community, including government-backed investment, the creation of a national development fund, financial reforms that would lead to capital market reforms, banking system reforms, innovative investment instruments, and making it easier for you to own your own vehicles.

    Financial reforms will also include tax reforms to put more back into the economy, to expand economic growth, to further reduce personal and corporate income tax, and of course, to create a payment system; a digital payment platform that will make doing business easier, simpler and safer for every Guyanese.

    The future also requires economic transformation, which includes economic diversification, expanding the economic base of our country, so that we can build our competitiveness. We can build our global competitiveness not only in the energy- the oil and gas- sector, but in every sector of our economy.

    Specific measures will target every single sector. We will continue to support our traditional sectors: our rice farmers, sugar, gold, bauxite, diamond, quarrying. In all of this, we want to see greater investments so that we can add more value to our natural asset.

    We’re going to continue to make investments to build out industrial parks, support manufacturing, and energy investment. We’re going to create higher value goods and services and support small and medium-sized enterprises as part of the economic transformation. With economic transformation, over the last four years, we have once again positioned Guyana as the number one country globally in producing our own food and expanding our own capacity to feed ourselves.

    We also want to be the food capital of the region. To do this, we also have to transform the food ecosystem and the agricultural sector. We’re going to build a resilient and sustainable food ecosystem, support our traditional sectors with reduced input costs, and enhance production and greater profitability. We’re going to invest heavily in agriculture diversification, climate-smart agriculture, self-sufficiency in new areas through mega production systems and the creation of a regional food and marketing hub.

    Important to all of this is training extension services. This will also be a major part of our investment. None of this can be possible without human transformation. Having a world-class education sector, world-class health care services and housing that meet the requirements of every Guyanese family.

    Guyana in the future must be an exporter of educational and health services. We must be the preferred destination for regional and international students. We must invest in medical tourism with Guyana as a preferred provider of world-class health care. We have to do all of this whilst creating opportunities for our diaspora to also participate.

    Important to all of this human transformation is high-quality moral, religious and civic education.  We must build a country in which our people have values that are held in high esteem. We are going to work with our religious community; our Mosques, our Churches, our Temples, transfer resources directly to them to help in this endeavour as we build holistic citizens.

    To support this future, technological transformation, the creation of digital infrastructure to promote universal access of every aspect of ICT; universal IT literacy, IT literacy for Guyanese of all ages, digitisation for more efficient Government services, incubating digital innovation, creating an artificial intelligence ecosystem to leverage the benefit of AI across all sectors. These are the areas of the future that we will invest in heavily to ensure the prosperity and sustainability of our country and our people.

    All of this must be on a bedrock in which we are secure and safe. So, the national security transformation will see technology driving our security architecture. Satellite, radar, drone technology, AI-driven threat detection and intelligence analysis, rolling out safe city and safe country, digital solutions for traffic safety, camera-based speed limit and seat belt detection, digitalised case management, cyber resilience and building human capital in our security sector are also key to this.

    All of this will be done whilst empowering our men and women in uniform, giving them more benefits. Building our human capital is giving them a good standard of living and good access to training opportunities also.  We’ll be leveraging our regional partnership in support of fighting crimes, especially transnational crime. Our partners in CARICOM, SOUTHCOM, South America, and all other partners will be part of our journey towards a safe and secure nation and region.

    We also will be investing in enhanced border security, greater presence at our border through technology and human assets, investments in maritime, aerial and terrestrial assets, enabling confidence and trust in the security system. All of this must be done under circumstances and conditions through which our security architecture is more service-oriented and community-led. That is what our policing must be: community-led and more service-oriented.

    None of this will be possible if we do not have the institutional transformation of our country – reducing bureaucracy in accessing government services, a more vibrant, efficient and reliable judiciary, improving transparency, raising productivity, improving our efficiency and competitiveness, and having governance and regulatory framework that secure our nation, secure our resources, secure our finances.

    Economic stability and maintaining the investment climate are key as we seek to sustain job creation.

    We must ensure that our policies of the future will contain inflationary pressures and the risk of overheating. We will continue to pursue monetary policy adjustments that are suitable for our country and our economy. We are going to ensure that Guyana is the most attractive destination for foreign and domestic investors.

    Climate resilience and sustainability is key to our security. That is why the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) must, and will, position Guyana as a global leader and pioneer in the global fight against climate change. Guyana will be positioned as a global leader in biodiversity, and what we want is for Guyana to be recognised as a thought leader and the creation of a global centre of excellence for research and education in climate and biodiversity issues. This is the Guyana we are building. This is the future we are reaching towards.

    My fellow Guyanese,

    In the face of external threats, we must not fracture. We must fortify. Let no difference in heritage divide us. Let no attempt at discord through political rhetoric distract us. Whether your ancestors arrived in the ships across the Atlantic, from Europe, from India or canoed down ancient rivers, each came with hope, each came with hardship, and all planted their dreams in this soil, and this soil is now ours, all of ours to defend, to nurture and to pass on. This is the meaning of One Guyana—not the erasure of difference, but the elevation of all, not sameness, but solidarity. In our diversity lies our genius, in our unity, our strength.

    So today, as we mark 59 years of Independence, let us lift our eyes to the horizon. Let us join hands across regions and religions, across language and lineages, and let us move forward, not as six people, but as one people, not as divided tribes, but as one nation, not in pursuit of separate ambitions, but in commitment to our one destiny. When we claimed our independence, we pledged to be not only sovereign, but also democratic, but history has taught us that democracy is not self-sustaining. It is fragile and it demands constant vigilance.

    There were years when that promise was betrayed, when elections were manipulated, ballots were abused and power was taken, not entrusted, but the people of Guyana reclaimed that democratic promise. Through struggle and sacrifice, we restored democracy, and with it, we rekindled hope. We proved that governments must answer to the governed, that elections must be free, fair and frequent, and that every vote must count because every citizen counts. That is why democracy must never be taken for granted. It is the soil from which development takes root, the shield that protects our freedom and the mirror that reflects both the legitimacy of our leaders and the conscience of our nation.

    In this election year, I call upon all Guyanese, wherever you live, whatever your history is, to stand firm in the defence of our democracy. Let us reject the voices that divide, the lies that deceive, and any attempt to silence the will of the people. We must show through our words, our actions, and our votes that the democratic spirit of Guyana is not only alive, but strong, unshakable and irreversible.

    Elections must not be about two or more sides, it must be about the Guyanese people peacefully making their choice. It must not be about hate, division and indignity, it must be about performance, competition of ideas and vision. It must be about track record, not empty rhetoric.

    These elections must be marked with love, unity, strength of character, dignity and after the ballots are cast and the results are announced, it must be about one government, governing for One Guyana. It is about a parliamentary democracy debating with purpose and representing their constituents. It is about healing, love and moving forward in peace and fulfilment. It is about all of us doing what is right.

    Let us never again be swayed otherwise and in keeping with the tenets of democracy and the construct of our Constitution, I had discussions with the Chairwoman of GECOM and having been assured of their readiness, I’ve decided to name the 1st of September 2025 as the date for national and regional elections, and in keeping with the provisions of the Constitution, I will soon issue the proclamation dissolving Parliament.

    My fellow Guyanese,as we mark 59 years of freedom, let us remember that independence is not an inheritance to be admired. It is a responsibility to be honoured, and so I close by affirming the three solemn, sacred duties of every citizen of this Republic.

    First, we must defend Guyana’s territory. We must defend our territorial integrity, not as a task for some, but as a duty for all, upheld with unwavering resolve. Second, we must drive development that leaves no citizen behind, building a future in which every Guyanese has a stake and a share. Third, we must safeguard our democracy, vigilantly, proudly and with ensuring love for this nation, we proudly call our own. We are not merely the inheritors of a free Guyana. We are its builders, its guardians, its bearers of the torch of nationhood. Let us pledge, on this sacred day, that we will hand to our children, not only sovereign land, but a strong, just and flourishing nation. Let this be our gift to our children and our children’s children, and may they prosper for generations to come.

    May Almighty God bless each of you. May God bless and protect our beloved Republic. Happy 59th Independence anniversary, Guyana.

    I stand here with love for all of you. I stand here with honour and respect for all of you. I stand here unshakeable as your President. I stand here committed to you, knowing that all of me belongs to all of you, and with every single ounce of energy that remains in me, I will serve you with honour, I will serve you with dignity, I will serve you with pride, I will serve you with trust. And with this government, with our men and women in uniform, with all those who serve together, let us embrace love, let us embrace unity. Guyana, the free, we love thee.

    God bless all of you, and I thank you.

    The post READ: President Ali’s full address for Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • Haynes and Ramdhani dominant at GUMDAC Badminton tournament

    Haynes and Ramdhani dominant at GUMDAC Badminton tournament

    Press Release from the Guyana Badminton Association

    Reigning champions Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani continued their impressive run by successfully defending their Mixed Doubles title at the 2025 GUMDAC Badminton Tournament.

    The duo also captured top honours in the Men’s Doubles and Women’s Doubles events, partnering with Tyrese Jeffrey and Mishka Beharry, respectively.

    Top performers! Akili Haynes (left) and Priyanna Ramdhani

    Their outstanding performances across multiple categories underscored their dominance, versatility, and exceptional skill in the sport.

    In one of the tournament’s most thrilling matches, Haynes and Jeffrey faced a formidable challenge from rising star Nkosi Beaton and his partner Wen Yuen Chen in the Men’s Doubles final.

    The high-energy encounter highlighted the depth of talent and competitive spirit within the local badminton scene.

    The Mixed Doubles final also brought excitement, with Haynes and Ramdhani taking on the emerging pair of Beaton and Beharry.

    The match-up showcased a dynamic mix of experience and upcoming talent, adding further drama and intrigue to the tournament.

    The tournament formats included a Round-of-32 draw for the Men’s Doubles, a Round-of-16 for the Mixed Doubles, and a Round-Robin format for the Women’s Doubles.

    The 2025 GUMDAC Badminton Tournament proved to be a celebration of athletic excellence and growing talent, reinforcing the sport’s rising profile in Guyana.

    Day Two Matches- May 24th, 2025

    XD QF – Akili Haynes/Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Frank Waddell/Anjaneysa Godette: 21-13, 21-7

    WD – Asiyah Eastman/Leshaunte Berkley vs. Harshini Muralidharan/Gabrielle Felix: 23-21, 21-17

    MD SF – Akili Haynes/Tyrese Jeffrey vs. Chet Bowling/Dan Tan:  21-12, 21-17

    XD SF – Nkosi Beaton/Mishka Beharry vs. Wen Yuan Chen/Asiyah Eastman: 24-22, 23-21

    MD SF – Nkosi Beaton/Wen Yuan Chen vs. Frank Waddell/Joanathan Debidin: 21-18, 21-15

    XD SF – Akili Haynes/Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Gavin Cao/Zhou Fenglian: 21-5, 21-12

    XD Finals – Akili Haynes/Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Nkosi Beaton/Mishka Beharry: 21-11, 21-18

    WD Final – Priyanna Ramdhani/Mishka Beharry vs. Shivannie Persaud/Anna Perreira: 21-7, 21-8

    MD Final – Akili Hayes/Tyrese Jeffrey vs. Nkosi Beaton/Wen Yuen Chen: 21-13, 22-20 

    WINNERS

    Mixed Doubles

    3rd Place – Wen Yuan Chen and Asiyah Eastman

    3rd Place – Gavin Cao and Zhou Fenglian

    2nd Place – Nkosi Beaton and Mishka Beharry

    1st Place – Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani

    Women’s Doubles

    3rd Place – Asiyah Eastman and Leshaunte Berkley

    3rd place – Gabrielle Felix and Harshini Muralidharan

    2nd place – Shivannie Persaud and Anna Perreira

    1st Place – Priyanna Ramdhani and Mishka Beharry

    Men’s Doubles

    3rd place – Frank Waddell and Joanathan Debidin

    3rd place – Chet Bowling and Dan Tan

    2nd Place – Nkosi Beaton and Wen Yuan Chen

    1st Place – Akili Haynes and Tyrese Jeffrey

    The Guyana Badminton Association once again expresses its gratitude to Mr. Darrell Carpenay for his continued sponsorship of the tournament.

    Sponsorship plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of sporting events, and Mr. Carpenay’s support is undoubtedly invaluable.

    Additionally, we would like to acknowledge the players, parents, spectators and fans whose involvement and support was vital in making this event a success.

    Moreover, we would like to acknowledge the Director of Sport and staff of the National Sports Commission for availing the usage of the facility, the National Gymnasium.

    Upcoming for the GBA is the National Junior Championship on July 5-6, 2025, and the Pan Am Individual Championship and Camp in Guatemala, also in July.

    The post Haynes and Ramdhani dominant at GUMDAC Badminton tournament appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • Guyana’s territory is ‘a settled fact of history & law’ – President in Independence Anniversary address 

    Guyana’s territory is ‘a settled fact of history & law’ – President in Independence Anniversary address 

    In a stirring address on Sunday night, President Dr. Irfaan Ali ushered in Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary with a firm reaffirmation of Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

    “…the territory of Guyana is a settled fact of history and law.

    “We are not aggressors, we are protectors, but let no one mistake our peacefulness for weakness. If our land is threatened, we shall rise as one nation, one people, one destiny,” Dr. Ali said in his Independence Day address at Albion, Region Six (East Berbice- Corentyne).

    At midnight, just after the President’s address, Guyana celebrated its 59th Independence Anniversary. It was a time for celebrating the country’s progression and development but President Ali zeroed in on Venezuela’s aggressions in his speech.

    Guyana on high alert as Venezuela threatens international peace and order

    Venezuela, for decades, has claimed Guyana’s Essequibo region despite the border between the two countries being settled by the 1899 Arbitral Award. Guyana has taken the border controversy to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it is hoping for a final binding ruling that reaffirms the Arbitral Award.

    Though the case is ongoing, Venezuela continues to escalate tensions. Earlier Sunday, Venezuela conducted widely condemned elections for representatives of the Essequibo region. Those elections were conducted in Venezuela and not anywhere in the Essequibo region.

    In his address, President Ali maintained that Guyana would defend itself from any aggression. He also highlighted that the country’s independence brought with it the supreme authority- sovereignty- to govern itself.

    “Independence was never just a matter of geography or autonomy. It was a sacred promise, a pledge that the people of Guyana- regardless of race, religion, class, or creed- would together build a future,” the Guyanese Head of State said.

    He began his address reaffirming Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and then continued by reflecting on Guyana’s development and his government’s plan for the future.

    From healthcare to education, the President said all Guyanese must enjoy world-class services. He also vowed that the economic landscape would continue to enjoy a rapid expansion, though the government intends to focus more on empowering small and medium-sized businesses and helping citizens generate more disposable income.

    As he has outlined in other addresses, the President also said his government will focus on developing digital services here.

    The date for this year’s General and Regional Elections- September 1, 2025- was also announced by the President.

    The post Guyana’s territory is ‘a settled fact of history & law’ – President in Independence Anniversary address  appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • Lucrative prizes on offer as Guyana set to host historic international bodybuilding Pro-Card qualifier

    Lucrative prizes on offer as Guyana set to host historic international bodybuilding Pro-Card qualifier

    History beckons as the sixth edition of the ‘Stage of Champions’ event has been granted International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Pro Qualifier status.

    This marks the first time such an event will be held in the country, offering local and regional athletes a direct pathway to professional status.

    The ‘Stage of Champions’ will occur on June 7 at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) in Georgetown.

    Winning an IFBB Pro Card allows athletes to compete in the prestigious IFBB Pro League, opening doors to lucrative prize money and the highest levels of the sport globally.

    According to Videsh Sookram, the event’s founder, the journey to this point has been significant.

    “We started Stage of Champions with no initial support, but it has grown into a mega event,” Sookram said, expressing his hope that Guyanese competitors can secure pro cards on home turf.

    Roger Callender, President of the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF), described the development as a “groundbreaking” step for local bodybuilding.

    The event will feature elite physiques from across the Caribbean and beyond, with athletes confirmed from Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, and Barbados, among other nations.

    IFBB and CAC-certified international officials will judge the competition.

    Three coveted IFBB Pro Cards will be awarded across the bodybuilding, men’s physique, and bikini categories.

    The stakes are high, with the overall bodybuilding champion set to receive GYD$600,000 (approximately US$3,000), and the Men’s Physique champion GYD$300,000.

    Traditional bodybuilding categories will offer GYD$ 200,000 for first place, GYD$ 100,000 for second, and GYD$ 60,000 for third across various weight classes.

    The event has garnered significant backing from Twins Manufacturing, Fitness Express, Camille’s Academy, Linkin Technology, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, which have provided full support.

    The ‘Stage of Champions Edition Six’ is scheduled to begin at 19:00 local time on June 7, with tickets priced at GYD$5,000.

    The post Lucrative prizes on offer as Guyana set to host historic international bodybuilding Pro-Card qualifier appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • Junior Lady Jags intensify preparation as FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification draws near

    Junior Lady Jags intensify preparation as FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification draws near

    The  Under-20 Women’s National Football Team is intensifying its training camp at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre as it prepares for the 2025 Concacaf Women’s U20 Championship.

    According to the Guyana Football Federation, the squad is the only Caribbean nation to have reached this final qualification stage for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

    The Lady Jags have focused on tactical readiness, technical execution, and team chemistry.

    As part of their preparations, they recently shared the pitch with members of Police FC’s women’s contingent, which includes several former national players.

    This session provided valuable match exposure and an inspiring experience, fostering mentorship and camaraderie between the young hopefuls and seasoned professionals.

    Adding to the day’s activities, the U20 players also had a brief meet-and-greet with participants from the ongoing GFF-Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls’ Tournament, bringing together two generations of female footballers.

    The U20 squad commenced camp earlier this week before their Group A competition in Costa Rica, where they face a highly competitive group.

    Guyana’s Fixtures (all matches at Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto, Costa Rica):

    • May 30: USA vs Guyana
    • June 1: Guyana vs Costa Rica
    • June 3: Puerto Rico vs Guyana

    The Lady Jags and their technical staff remain determined to represent Guyana at the highest level on the international stage.

    The post Junior Lady Jags intensify preparation as FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification draws near appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • NBA legend Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon stresses ‘commitment and sacrifice’ on landmark Guyana visit

    NBA legend Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon stresses ‘commitment and sacrifice’ on landmark Guyana visit

    During a historic visit to Guyana, NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon emphasised the crucial role of relentless dedication and hard work in achieving sporting greatness.

    The two-time NBA champion, renowned as “The Dream,” engaged with the Guyanese basketball community, including aspiring young players, at a special event hosted at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on May 23.

    Olajuwon, a guest of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, shared insights from his illustrious career and fielded questions about his journey from a football-loving youngster in Lagos, Nigeria, to a global basketball icon.

    The 62-year-old, who famously only took up basketball at 16, captivated the audience with his soft-spoken yet powerful reflections.

    “Talent can only take you so far,” Olajuwon stated.

    “What separates the good from the great is how committed you are, how much you’re willing to sacrifice, and how consistent your work ethic is.”

    This message of discipline resonated throughout the interactive session, which was initiated by Charles Ramson Jr., Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport.

    Hakeem Olajuwon and Minister Charles Ramson Jr. during the interaction session at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (PHOTO: Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport)

    Attendees, from school-level players to former administrators, eagerly quizzed the former Houston Rockets centre.

    Olajuwon recounted his early sporting life, explaining that football was his passion before discovering basketball.

    “It was all new to me,” he admitted with a smile. “But I fell in love with the discipline and beauty of the game.”

    A devout Muslim, Olajuwon also spoke of how his faith provided a grounding influence throughout his decorated 18-year NBA career, which saw him secure back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995, being named Finals MVP on both occasions, and earning an Olympic gold medal.

    The visit, described as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” for many in Guyana’s basketball fraternity, is part of broader efforts to develop sport nationwide.

    MORE PHOTOS: https://www.facebook.com/newsroomgy/posts/pfbid0VGvQy52VEdv2C6V7WZ8axEttq3cfUmxye2vUf8NdBT9KpogLBBbWAWdpHZeCQTrYl

    The post NBA legend Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon stresses ‘commitment and sacrifice’ on landmark Guyana visit appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • PPP reaffirms commitment to unity, sovereignty on Guyana’s 59th independence anniversary

    PPP reaffirms commitment to unity, sovereignty on Guyana’s 59th independence anniversary

    As Guyana celebrates its 59th Independence Anniversary, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has issued a message of pride, reflection, and resolve, reaffirming its commitment to national unity and the defence of the country’s territorial sovereignty.

    Recalling the significance of 26 May 1966, when the Golden Arrowhead was first raised, the PPP hailed the historic occasion as the birth of a sovereign nation—an end to colonial rule and the beginning of Guyana’s journey as a free and self-governing people.

    “That moment marked not only the end of colonial rule, but the birth of a sovereign nation filled with hope, pride, and determination,” the statement read.

    The Party paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of those who led the struggle for self-rule, emphasising that Independence brought the opportunity for Guyanese to chart their own course under one flag. That triumph, the PPP said, remains a source of collective memory and national pride for all citizens.

    Reflecting on the nearly six decades since Independence, the PPP acknowledged the many challenges Guyana has faced—including political, economic, and social trials—but noted that none has diminished the country’s unity or resolve.

    Central to the Party’s message was a firm stance against Venezuela’s “spurious and unlawful claim” to a significant part of Guyana’s sovereign territory.

    “This threat strikes at the heart of our national integrity and identity,” the Party stated, adding, “Yet, as we have done in the past, the Guyanese people continue to stand resolute—united in purpose, unwavering in our defence of our territorial sovereignty, and confident in the justice of our cause.”

    The PPP expressed confidence that the Guyanese spirit—marked by resilience, courage, and determination—will continue to guide the nation through current and future adversities.

    Extending warm wishes to Guyanese at home and abroad, the Party used the occasion not only to celebrate, but to urge reflection on the sacrifices of past generations. It encouraged citizens to draw inspiration from the legacy of the forebears who laid the foundation of modern Guyana.

    Looking to the future, the PPP underscored its commitment to prudent resource management, inclusive growth, and equal opportunity, emphasising its vision of a Guyana where every citizen has a fair chance to thrive.

    “The road ahead will not be without obstacles,” the statement read, “but with continued resilience, unity, and hope, there is no limit to what we can achieve together.”

    In closing, the Party called on all Guyanese to recommit to the values of justice, freedom, equality, and national unity.

    “Let us honour the sacrifices of our forebears not only in word, but through action and service to our country,” the statement said.

    “Happy Independence Day to all Guyanese! May our Golden Arrowhead continue to fly high, symbolising the strength, pride, and aspirations of a people determined to shape a brighter future.”

    The post PPP reaffirms commitment to unity, sovereignty on Guyana’s 59th independence anniversary appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • ‘We are ready for the elections’ – PPP’s Jagdeo says, highlights promises delivered since 2020 

    ‘We are ready for the elections’ – PPP’s Jagdeo says, highlights promises delivered since 2020 

    See below the full statement from General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C): 

    I welcome President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s announcement of September 1st, 2025 as the date for General and Regional Elections.

    As the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), I am proud to say that we are ready to deliver our message of continued progress to the people of Guyana in the upcoming election campaign.

    Since returning to Office in August 2020, our government hit the ground running, and we have not looked back. In the face of a global pandemic, we acted decisively — expanding COVID-19 testing, securing life-saving vaccines, reopening the economy, and restoring essential public services. Within just 40 days, we passed an emergency budget to remove burdensome taxes, support vulnerable groups, and revive critical sectors of the economy. And we did far more than that. In just under five years, we have restored confidence in the economy and created thousands of jobs for the Guyanese people. From agriculture and infrastructure to energy, ICT, and tourism, we have driven broad-based, inclusive growth. We invested heavily in healthcare, education, affordable housing, social welfare, and built stronger, safer communities. Over this period, thousands of house lots have been distributed, putting land and homeownership within reach for ordinary Guyanese families. We tempered the impact of the global increase in the cost of living by increasing disposable income across both the private and public sectors. To ease the financial burden on families and businesses, we introduced several initiatives — including subsidies on electricity and water, the removal of all taxes on gasoline and diesel, and the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector, which led to cheaper access to data and other services. We also reduced mortgage interest rates and implemented a range of additional measures aimed at putting more money into people’s pockets. At the same time, we tackled rising living costs through targeted interventions for the elderly, unemployed, women, youth, and vulnerable communities, while safeguarding jobs and incomes nationwide.

    Importantly, we did not just deliver on our 2020–2025 manifesto — we exceeded it by listening to the needs of our people and taking decisive action. We implemented initiatives that ensured all sections of society benefited — from miners and farmers to public servants, youths, entrepreneurs, and ordinary families in every community.

    As we look ahead to 2025–2030, our re-election campaign will focus on our plans to build on this strong foundation. We will create thousands more jobs across new and traditional sectors expand healthcare services with over 6,000 new jobs in that sector alone, and establish hubs for medical tourism, biotech, and information technology. We will modernise education by embedding STEM, AI, and digital skills in classrooms, increasing scholarships, and growing a Digital Guyana. Housing development will accelerate with the distribution of 5,000 house lots annually, alongside new climateresilient communities like Silica City. Major infrastructure projects — including new bridges, highways, deep-water harbours, modern airports, and waterfront developments — will reshape our national landscape, boost connectivity, and support economic diversification. Through pro-business reforms and SME financing, we will continue to open opportunities for every Guyanese citizen. We also recognise that important work remains in several key areas. These include improving garbage collection and community drainage systems to foster cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods, expanding street lighting and other initiatives to enhance community safety, and making more land available for small miners and farmers to boost productivity and support sustainable livelihoods.

    Needless to say, throughout our term, we have faced relentless obstruction from the Parliamentary Opposition, whose political games have done the country a disservice.

    The PNCR/APNU/AFC/WPA, in whatever form they present themselves to the electorate, have no track record to stand on – no record of delivering for the Guyanese people – and nothing credible to offer the electorate. As such, Guyanese can expect their characteristic campaign of lies, racism and division to continue, along with the usual long list of unrealistic, lofty, populist promises, which they have no intention of fulfilling.

    Our Party anticipates this and we will meet this challenge head-on, exposing their deception at every turn.

    The PPP has always stood for democracy, social justice, economic growth, and national unity. That commitment remains unshaken. We will continue working to build a Guyana where every citizen – young and old, of every race, gender and religion – has the opportunity for a progressive and prosperous life.

    We are ready for the 2025 Election. And we are prepared to win it for the people of Guyana.

    The post ‘We are ready for the elections’ – PPP’s Jagdeo says, highlights promises delivered since 2020  appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • BREAKING: Elections will be held on September 1

    BREAKING: Elections will be held on September 1

    President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday night announced that Guyana’s General and Regional Elections will be held on Monday, September 1, 2025.

    The Guyanese Head of State made the announcement as he gave his presidential address for Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary. The anniversary celebrations are at Albion, Berbice, this year.

    Dr. Ali said this decision comes after he engaged the Chairwoman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, and has been assured of the Commission’s readiness to hold elections on this date.

    The President added that he will soon issue the proclamation for the dissolution of Parliament.

     

    The post BREAKING: Elections will be held on September 1 appeared first on News Room Guyana.

  • Queensway Security Service rewards rising Berbice boxing stars

    Queensway Security Service rewards rising Berbice boxing stars

    In a move lauded by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Queensway Security Service rewarded three of its employees for their exceptional performances on Sunday while representing Guyana at the recently concluded Caribbean Boxing Championships in St. Lucia.

    Jamal Eastman, Joel Williamson, and standout performer Terron Wintz were recognized with monetary incentives at Queensway’s Canje, Berbice office, underscoring the company’s commitment to supporting local talent.

    Wintz emerged as the most decorated among the trio, pocketing a total of $350,000. Of that sum, $100,000 was designated to support his ongoing training and nutrition, while the remaining $250,000 was a reward for clinching the coveted Best Youth Boxer award at the Championships.

    Competing in the youth division, Wintz dominated his 67kg final bout against St. Lucia’s Denzel Stephens, with the referee stopping the contest two minutes and 36 seconds into the second round.

    Williamson and Eastman were each awarded $100,000 for their efforts in the ring. GBA President Steve Ninvalle expressed hope that Queensway Security’s gesture would set a precedent for other companies that employ athletes.

    “This kind of corporate involvement is critical,” Ninvalle said. “Queensway has shown they understand what is needed for our athletes, not just in boxing, but in any sport. to excel. These young men train tirelessly, and support like this goes a long way.”

    Ninvalle also took the opportunity to highlight the GBA’s intensified focus on youth development in recent years, pointing to the surge of interest in boxing among the nation’s youth, especially in regions like Berbice.

    “We’re investing heavily in our youth programme,” Ninvalle emphasized. “Our aim is to expose more young boxers to elite competition, regionally and internationally, so that they have the platform and experience to one day transition into successful professional careers.”

    The GBA, under Ninvalle’s leadership, has been instrumental in nurturing grassroots talent across Guyana.

    The association’s recent efforts have borne fruit, with Guyanese boxers making their mark on regional stages and earning accolades.

    “Time and again we have proven that with the right structure and support, our amateur boxers can rise to any occasion,” Ninvalle said.

    Ninvalle noted that the presentation not only celebrated the young pugilists’ achievements but also marked a progressive step forward in corporate-GBA collaboration.

    The post Queensway Security Service rewards rising Berbice boxing stars appeared first on News Room Guyana.

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