Guyana ready for IGG after trilateral meeting in Suriname

Following a trilateral meeting among Guyana, French Guiana and hosts Suriname on Friday September 19, Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle not only hailed the talks among the countries as successful but confirmed Guyana’s preparedness to host the Inter Guiana Games (IGG) in December.

One of the major items receiving clarity for the 2025 edition of the games set for December 5-7 was the age requirements for the event. Athletes must be between the ages of 14 to 18 to be considered as eligible to participate in the event.

Ninvalle shared that the three countries not only mapped out a framework for the upcoming Games but also reviewed last year’s edition, which was hosted in Cayenne, French Guiana.

“The meeting, by all indications, was a success. There’s a high degree of enthusiasm for the IGG by all three countries, and that is important.

“As you know, Suriname has a new Minister of Sport, and I’m happy to see that they came in understanding the importance of the IGG. They are fully committed to supporting the Games,” Ninvalle highlighted.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, share a handshake with Suriname’s newly appointed Minister of Sport, Lalinie Gopal, after being introduced by Suriname’s School Sport Federation President, Aniel Ghisaidoobe (centre).

Additionally, all three delegations decided to give their respective federations additional time to arrive at a consensus on what sport disciplines will be included in this year’s edition of the multisport games.

At last year’s games, the athletes competed in athletics, basketball, beach volleyball, chess, futsal, swimming, and table tennis.

Meanwhile, a follow-up virtual meeting of the Organising Committee is set for Wednesday September 24, where further outstanding matters will be addressed.

First staged in 1967, the Inter Guiana Games were designed to strengthen ties and foster friendships between Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana through sport.

Over the years, the event has become a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their talent while promoting unity and cultural exchange.

The Government of Guyana, under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, has reaffirmed its commitment to the Games, recognising their role in building character among youth and in promoting sport as a vehicle for social development.