Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, emphasised the government’s continued investment in sport, describing it as a catalyst for community development, as he officially declared open the 2025 North Pakaraimas Games in Kopinang Village, Region Eight.
In his remarks on Monday, Prime Minister Phillips noted that the games, which rotate annually among villages in the North Pakaraimas, serve as a vital platform for fostering camaraderie, village solidarity, and the spirit of friendly competition.
He stressed that the true value of the event lies not only in competing for trophies but also in bringing communities together.
“As you embark on the North Pakaraimas tournament this year, I want to reiterate that this is a tournament our Government will continue to support, because we believe the camaraderie and the spirit of brotherly and sisterly love encouraged by these Games must be sustained.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the Government’s commitment to inclusive development that reaches all Guyanese, regardless of location, and pointed to recent investments in the hinterland.
“Our President made it clear when he took office that he would deliver five years of development to the people of Guyana—not only the coastline, but also the hinterland. And all our actions as a Government so far reflect that commitment, because we believe the people who live in the hinterland must enjoy the same benefits as those on the coast.”
He cited advancements in information and communication technology through the WiFigy initiative, improved education via the construction of new schools, enhanced healthcare with upgraded regional facilities, and expanded infrastructure. Over 37,000 household solar units have been distributed nationwide, with Kopinang and the wider North Pakaraimas among the beneficiaries.
The Prime Minister also outlined the Government’s priorities for the 2025–2030 development cycle, pledging further improvements in road networks, healthcare delivery, and targeted investments in sport and sporting facilities across Region Eight.
“We will continue to ensure that in the next development cycle, the 2025 to 2030 period, there will be better road connectivity for all villages in the North Pakaraimas. Internet connectivity, while good, will be improved. Health services will be strengthened. We will assess all sport facilities and work with the Village Council and the Regional Democratic Council to enhance them throughout the region, especially in the North Pakaraimas.”
Prime Minister Phillips also underscored not only the continuity of the Games, but its overall growth.
“These Games remain a very important activity. They are now a calendar event that will continue to receive support from my Government, led by Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. As we move forward, more funds will be allocated, because we want to see the Games grow. As road systems improve, more people will be able to travel, increasing attendance. Teams will be able to bring not only their players but also their supporters. The development of sport is a priority for our Government, and we will continue to support it.”
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai also attended the official opening of the Games.
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