In a significant move to bolster Guyana’s sporting landscape, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has underscored the government’s substantial financial commitment to developing and upgrading sports facilities across the nation. This initiative, part of the broader “One Guyana” vision, represents an unprecedented investment in the country’s sporting infrastructure.

Record-Breaking Budget Allocation

The 2025 national budget has earmarked a staggering GY$8 billion for sports development, marking a historic 73.9% increase from the previous year’s allocation. This substantial boost in funding demonstrates the government’s recognition of sports as a crucial element in national development and social cohesion.

Nationwide Infrastructure Development

VP Jagdeo highlighted several key projects that are either underway or slated to begin:

1. New Stadium Construction: A new stadium in Berbice has already broken ground, signaling a major boost for the region’s sporting capabilities.
2. Track and Field Facilities: New Amsterdam is seeing the construction of a major track and field facility, enhancing the nation’s athletics infrastructure.
3. Multi-Purpose Facilities: The government is investing in multi-purpose sports facilities across various regions:
   • Anna Regina: A massive new stadium and ground is under construction.
   • Regions 1, 3, 7, 8, and 9: Multi-purpose sports halls are being built.
   • Linden, New Amsterdam, Palmyra, and Port Mourant: Significant upgrades or new constructions are underway.
4. Community Grounds Upgrade: An extensive program to upgrade over 450 community grounds is in progress, with 65 out of 125 grounds in Berbice already improved.
5. Lighting Installations: FIFA-standard lighting is being installed at various venues to facilitate night games and increase facility usage.

Economic and Social Impact

Dr. Jagdeo emphasized the transformative potential of these investments, stating, “We are investing heavily in sports… We have to now support this by programmes, how do we get to professionalise this to make it a business, people can earn money from sports and it’s something that is worth doing.”

The Vice President also highlighted the need for a shift in thinking among sports associations, calling for more visionary leadership to complement the government’s efforts. He stressed the importance of developing business models within sports to create sustainable economic opportunities.

Future Prospects

With the completion of ongoing projects and the initiation of new ones, Guyana is positioning itself as a potential hub for sports tourism in the region. The government’s vision extends beyond mere infrastructure development, aiming to create a holistic ecosystem that nurtures talent, provides economic opportunities, and enhances the overall quality of life for Guyanese citizens.

As these ambitious projects unfold, the nation watches with anticipation, hoping that this unprecedented investment will yield a new era of sporting excellence and economic growth for Guyana.