Guyana’s 50+1 Independence flag raising ceremony for Stabroek Square – Inter-ministries collaboration in train for week of activities
Press Release
(Georgetown, April 27, 2017)
While it seems that it was not so long ago that Guyana hosted a grand Golden Jubilee, the time is drawing closer for the nation’s observance of its 5O+1 Independence Anniversary, and a week of activities is on the cards.
Even as engagements are continually being held at various levels, recently, Hon. Minister Nicolette Henry met with several officials to flesh out concepts further aimed at ensuring a successful, celebratory observance.
At that meeting it was revealed that a week of activities is planned from May 21 -27 and the approach will see active participation from several ministries spearheaded by the Ministry of Education Department of Culture Youth and Sport.
The ultimate 50+1 Independence event would be the flag raising ceremony which would be hosted for the first time at the Stabroek Market Square.
That even will feature a military parade and mass band display followed by a spectacular fireworks showcase at the Stabroek Square on the evening of May 25.
Director of Culture Ms. Tamika Boatswain while noting that cultural and other Independence events abound in all Regions, stated that a mega culture- filled evening is slated for May 26 at the National Cultural Centre. This would celebrate Guyana’s ‘Past, Present and Future’ with specific focus on presenting the nation as an ‘Emerging Green State’ in keeping with President David Granger’s vision. “There will be cultural performances in all the regions,” added Ms. Boatswain.
National Events Director, Lt. Colonel Godfrey Bess, assures that on May 25 an historical military flag raising is guaranteed for the Stabroek Square. To realize this, some infrastructural works are scheduled to be undertaken and completed by the relevant stakeholders such as the Mayor and City council, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Guyana Fire Service and The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
“The Flag Raising ceremony will be a military one along with a band display followed by the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, and will conclude with a mega fireworks display,” Lt. Col. Bess added. The Independence Cultural showcase slated for the National Cultural Centre on May 26 will feature Guyana’s offerings at the upcoming Carifesta XIII slated for Barbados.
While other pre and post activities are planned at the regional levels, Guyana will also be observing Youth Week which will coincide with the Independence observances and a plethora of youth related activities are scheduled to take place from May 21 and culminating on May 27.
The theme for Youth Week is, ‘Inspiring our youth, celebrating our achievements’.
Youth Director, Melissa Carmichael, at that meeting reported that the events will target approximately 5000 Guyanese youth aged 14-35 and would feature events such as a Military/ Paramilitary Parade, an Interfaith Opening Concert, Youth Folk Exposition, a Career and training exposition, Youth expressions, and more.
Actively involved in the planning are officials from the Ministries of Agriculture, Communities and Business with guidance from Lt. Col. Best, Director of National Events.
The Ministry of Communities will play a pivotal role in helping to make the 50+1 Independence Anniversary a most memorable one. A Housing Expo is also carded.
Another concept meeting will be held in a week’s time that will speak to subjects such as Agriculture, Business, Cottage Industry, a Farmer’s Market and sale of fresh produce as well as Youth Week, in addition to a Fine Arts exhibition.