Guyana to host Caribbean media leaders at CBU’s AGA, media awards

Guyana is preparing to welcome media professionals, broadcasters, journalists, digital innovators and policymakers from across the Caribbean when it hosts the 57th Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) and the 37th CBU Media Awards from August 17-19, 2026.

The official launch of the regional event was held on Tuesday, with organizers highlighting the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the media landscape and announcing nominees for this year’s prestigious media awards, including strong showings from Guyanese media houses.

Under the theme “Caribbean Media and Artificial Intelligence,” the assembly will bring together regional stakeholders to examine how AI is transforming journalism, broadcasting, content creation and audience engagement, while exploring the opportunities and risks facing small developing states.

CBU President Anthony Greene, in his opening remarks, said artificial intelligence is already reshaping how news and information are produced, distributed and consumed.

“Artificial intelligence is no longer on the horizon. It is already reshaping how content is produced, distributed, translated, monetized, archived and consumed,” Greene said.

He noted that Caribbean media practitioners must focus on ensuring that technological advances strengthen institutions, preserve regional culture and maintain public trust.

“The real question is how do we respond in a way that protects our people, strengthens our institutions, preserves our culture and positions Caribbean media to lead with confidence, credibility and creativity,” he stated.

Greene announced that Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali is expected to deliver the keynote address at the opening ceremony, while representatives from UNESCO and other regional and international organizations will participate in discussions surrounding AI, ethics, media sustainability and authenticity.

A major highlight of this year’s gathering will be the induction of two distinguished Caribbean media figures into the CBU Media Hall of Fame — the late veteran journalist Rickey Singh and the late media scholar Professor Aubrey Brown.

CBU Secretary General Sonia Gill revealed that the 2026 awards competition attracted a record-breaking 683 entries across 63 categories from 41 organizations and individuals representing 16 Caribbean countries and territories.

According to Gill, Guyana recorded its strongest performance yet.

“As this year’s host, Guyana showed it hasn’t come to play,” she declared while announcing the nominees.

Guyanese media organizations secured a total of 37 nominations, setting a national record.

Leading the local field is the National Communications Network (NCN) with 19 nominations, followed by News Room Inc. with 15 nominations. The Guyana Chronicle earned three nominations.

Across the region, Belize-based Greater Belize Media emerged as the most nominated organization overall with 93 nominations, while Jamaica remained the leading country with 105 nominated entries.

Gill also highlighted the introduction of new categories for students enrolled in Caribbean tertiary institutions, aimed at encouraging the next generation of media practitioners.

The winners will be announced during the CBU Media Awards Gala in Georgetown on August 19.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Government of Guyana, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs and Information, Kwame McCoy, said the timing of the assembly is especially significant as the region confronts rapid technological change.

He described artificial intelligence as a force that is transforming industries, redefining how information is consumed and challenging traditional ideas of trust and accountability.

“For small states, including those of the Caribbean, these developments present both extraordinary opportunities and profound challenges,” McCoy said.

He pointed to Guyana’s ongoing investments in media training, digital transformation, education, healthcare and connectivity as evidence of the country’s readiness to participate in global discussions about technology and development.

McCoy said the August gathering will provide an important forum for conversations on media ethics, regulation, misinformation, technological adaptation and the future role of journalists in society.

“Artificial intelligence will challenge us. It will require new skills. It will compel us to rethink old models, but it will also create opportunities to expand access to information, strengthen public engagement, improve efficiency and amplify Caribbean voices in ways previously unimaginable,” he said.

The minister said Guyana looks forward to welcoming the region for what is expected to be one of the most important discussions on the future of Caribbean media.

Caption: Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs and Information, Kwame McCoy, delivering the feature address at the launch of the 57th Caribbean Broadcasting Union Annual General Assembly and 37th CBU Media Awards, which will be hosted in Guyana from August 17-19, 2026.