GBA welcomes $6B sports budget boost, eyes new era for boxing

GBA Secretary, Stacy Correia

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has welcomed the Government’s proposed $6 billion allocation for sport in the 2026 National Budget, describing it as a significant step forward for the development of amateur boxing across the country.

The allocation forms part of the wider $1.558 trillion national budget and signals continued emphasis on sport as a vehicle for youth empowerment and national progress.

For the GBA, the investment carries special meaning, as provisions under the sports allocation include the completion of a new boxing gym at Angoy’s Avenue in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

GBA Secretary Stacy Correia said the funding represents a pivotal moment for the sport, particularly for athletes and coaches in Berbice who have long awaited improved facilities.

“This is a major boost for amateur boxing in Guyana,” Correia noted, while adding, “the completion of the gym in Angoy’s Avenue will provide a proper training environment for our boxers and create new opportunities for young people in Berbice to get involved in the sport in a more structured and disciplined way.”

During his Budget presentation, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh emphasized that the Government of Guyana will continue investing in world-class facilities, professional coaching personnel, mentorship from national and international athletes, participation in major competitions, and the development of sports tourism.

He also underscored that sports is a major business sector and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for young athletes to maximise opportunities in their respective disciplines.

Correia acknowledged that while the GBA has benefited from tangible support through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the association has faced several challenges during a demanding 2025 calendar.

“As an association, we battled with limited resources and ageing equipment at some gyms. This budget can help address some of those issues, particularly in upgrading facilities and acquiring more modern boxing equipment for our affiliated gyms,” Correia stated.

She added that improved infrastructure and equipment will play a crucial role in raising training standards and preparing local boxers to compete at higher levels.

“The GBA stands ready to support the Government and the Ministry of Sport in advancing boxing and sports development in Guyana,” Correia said. “We are committed to doing our part to help produce disciplined, competitive athletes who can represent Guyana with pride.”