Guyana President Ali pledges greater inclusion for indigenous athletes
Key Points(5)
- <strong>GEORGETOWN, Guyana –</strong> President Dr.
- Mohamed Irfaan Ali has unveiled a series of initiatives designed to ensure indigenous athletes are given a stronger presence in Guyana’s premier sports, including cricket, football, and volleyball.
- Speaking at the 2025 Heritage Games on Saturday, the President acknowledged the existing talent among indigenous athletes, noting that many had yet to receive the opportunities necessary to represent the country at the national level.
- Approximately 800 indigenous athletes from across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions are taking part in this year’s Heritage Games.
- <h2>Indigenous cricket to gain mentorship from legends</h2> As part of the initiatives, retired West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan has been appointed mentor and coach for indigenous cricket talent, tasked with integrating players into the national cricketing infrastructure.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has unveiled a series of initiatives designed to ensure indigenous athletes are given a stronger presence in Guyana’s premier sports, including cricket, football, and volleyball.
Speaking at the 2025 Heritage Games on Saturday, the President acknowledged the existing talent among indigenous athletes, noting that many had yet to receive the opportunities necessary to represent the country at the national level. Approximately 800 indigenous athletes from across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions are taking part in this year’s Heritage Games.
Indigenous cricket to gain mentorship from legends
As part of the initiatives, retired West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan has been appointed mentor and coach for indigenous cricket talent, tasked with integrating players into the national cricketing infrastructure.
“He will be responsible for working with our indigenous boards and groups to select the first indigenous cricket team that will come into the national cricketing infrastructure and be part of those trials,” President Ali explained.
In parallel, former West Indies star Roger Harper will lead efforts to develop women’s cricket with a special focus on indigenous communities, ensuring that talent at all levels is nurtured.
Support across sports and national tournaments
Beyond cricket, the President announced donations of equipment for football, volleyball, and cricket, while promising that by year-end, indigenous teams will participate in national tournaments.
President Ali emphasized that these measures are part of the broader “One Guyana” vision, which seeks equal opportunity for every citizen, regardless of background.
“This is about creating structures that provide our indigenous athletes with the pathways and support they need to compete at the highest levels,” he said.
