THE final countdown to the 2025 Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) begins this week as high-level sporting delegations from French Guiana and Suriname arrive in Georgetown to finalise plans for the event.

The officials will meet with Steve Ninvalle, the Director of Sport, and representatives of Guyana’s National Sports Commission (NSC) to finalise arrangements for the games, which are scheduled for December 5th to 7th.

The visit on Wednesday marks the crucial preparatory summit before the three neighbouring territories – Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana – reignite their long-standing sporting rivalry, built on a foundation of cultural exchange and friendship.

The core agenda for the visiting delegations is the signing of the Protocol Agreement. This key document will officially confirm the disciplines to be contested at the 2025 IGG. In addition, the officials will conduct venue inspections of the facilities earmarked to host the various events across the capital.

Dating back to 1967, the IGG is one of the region’s longest-running youth sports exchanges, specifically designed to foster unity, co-operation, and mutual understanding. Over the decades, the games have proved to be a critical development platform, producing several athletes who have gone on to represent their countries on the international stage.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, gave the assurance that Guyana is ready to deliver a world-class event.

“We are ready to welcome our counterparts from French Guiana and Suriname,” Ninvalle stated. “Guyana is prepared to host the Inter-Guiana Games at the highest standard, and we look forward to an exciting and productive engagement.”

Ninvalle stressed that the discussions would focus not only on hosting- logistics, but also on enhancing the overall impact of the event for its participants.

“This event continues to be a vital platform for youth development in sports. Our discussions will also focus on how we can improve the games to better serve our student-athletes,” he added.