Amerindian Heritage Games 2026 officially opens in Guyana

The 2026 Amerindian Heritage Games officially commenced on Thursday evening at the Everest Sports Ground in Georgetown. The four-day event brings together athletes from all ten regions of Guyana to promote sports competition and talent development.

Under the theme ‘Observing Our Cultural Heritage During Our Diamond Jubilee’, the opening ceremony included a march past by participating teams, cultural performances, and a parachuting display by the Guyana Defence Force. Prime Minister Mark Phillips, performing the duties of the president, officially declared the games open.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Phillips emphasized the government’s ‘One Guyana’ development approach, stating that development must extend beyond the coastline to reach hinterland communities. He noted that investments in sports infrastructure, equipment, and coaching have been made to strengthen opportunities for young people in these regions.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Brown-Shadeek also attended, highlighting how sports can serve as a stepping stone for youth from hinterland communities. She noted that previous participants have successfully progressed to represent Guyana at various competitive levels.