Budget 2026 marks start of manifesto implementation for culture, youth and sports – Minister Jacobs

Junior Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Steven Jacobs, has described Budget 2026 as the starting point for the implementation of the government’s manifesto commitments, particularly as it relates to investment in sports infrastructure, youth development and community facilities.

Speaking following the presentation of the national budget by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, Jacobs said the 2026 budget serves as the fiscal framework through which the PPP/C government intends to roll out its plans over the next five years.

“This budget for 2026 is the vehicle and the tool through which the government will begin implementing all of the promises we made to the electorate,” Jacobs said. “This is the start of implementation.”

Turning his focus to sports, Jacobs said the sector continues to play a critical role in national development, youth engagement, discipline, national pride and economic growth. He noted that the ministry received an allocation of $6 billion in Budget 2026, which will support the expansion of sports infrastructure and the completion of several major facilities.

According to Jacobs, a number of key facilities are scheduled to be opened during the year, including the National Athletics Facility at Leonora, which he said will provide athletes with a modern space to train and develop. “For the first time, our athletes will have access to a proper, modern facility where they can develop at home, instead of having to travel long distances to train,” he said, adding that the facility will also allow Guyana to host regional and international events.

Jacobs explained that hosting international sporting events would have wider economic benefits, including increased business for hotels, taxi operators, barbers, vendors and other service providers. He also noted that the operation and maintenance of new facilities will create additional employment opportunities.

“You will need people to manage and maintain these facilities. Those are real jobs being created,” he said.

He said the budget’s theme of “Putting People First” is reflected in the ministry’s programmes, which are intended to put money directly into the pockets of ordinary Guyanese while expanding access to opportunities.

Jacobs also highlighted the opening of the National Track and Field Facility at Leonora, continued development at the National Stadium at Providence, and the expansion of facilities for cricket, including opportunities to host international matches.

He said new and upgraded facilities will also support Guyana’s push to position itself as a sports tourism destination, showcasing the country’s culture and identity to a global audience.

“Our unique culture and our sporting potential will be on display to the world,” Jacobs said. “This is part of building a sports tourism ecosystem.”

In addition to large scale facilities, Jacobs said work is ongoing or planned for a boxing facility at Anna Regina, a chess facility, and the commencement of a powerlifting facility. He said these projects are part of a wider effort to give athletes across disciplines the resources they need to progress.

Beyond infrastructure, Jacobs said the ministry is placing strong emphasis on human resource development, including training for coaches, officials and administrators.

“We are not just building facilities. We are also investing in professional coaching, talent development and proper management structures,” he said.

Jacobs also pointed to continued investment in community sports facilities, noting that billions of dollars have already been spent over the last five years to upgrade grounds and recreational spaces. He said these efforts will continue in 2026 to ensure communities have safe spaces for health, wellness, fitness and social interaction.

“Community facilities allow young people to play, build relationships and stay engaged in positive activities,” he said.

He added that plans are also advancing for the development of a high performance centre and sports academy to better support elite athletes and strengthen Guyana’s long term sporting potential.

“This is about investing in sport, building people, building communities and building a nation,” Jacobs said. “We made promises to the people, and we will continue to implement them.”