Three days of national mourning for MV Barima victims

July 21 2026

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has declared three days of National Mourning in honour of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy, as Guyana continues to grapple with one of its deadliest maritime disasters.

The period of mourning will be observed from Wednesday, July 22, to Friday, July 24, 2026.

During the three-day observance, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on all Government buildings and other appropriate locations across the country.

Wednesday, July 22, has also been designated a National Day of Prayer. A National Day of Prayer and Remembrance will be held at the Kingston Seawall in Georgetown to honour those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

The observances will continue with a Night of Reflection and Prayer in Port Kaituma on Thursday, July 23, followed by a similar event in Mabaruma on Friday, July 24.

President Ali has also encouraged religious organisations, civic groups and citizens across the country to organise candlelight vigils and moments of prayer in solidarity with the victims and their families.

The official proclamation declaring the three days of National Mourning will be published in the Official Gazette.