Hundreds gather at Durban Park

―Guyanese in Diaspora return to celebrate Guyana’s 50^th

DPI, Guyana, Sunday, February 23, 2020

Hundreds from various walks of life, flocked to Durban Park from as early as 9am to witness the arrival of the Costume and Float Parade.

The Department of Public Information spoke to several spectators in the packed stands, among them were many Guyanese from the Diaspora who were back to enjoy the Jubilee celebrations.

First-time visitor to Guyana, Carmen (only name given) said accepting her friend’s offer to vacation in Guyana for Mashrmaani was the best decision she made. I am totally enjoying it!” she exclaimed

Minister of State Hon. Dawn Hastings-Williams chats with DPI’s Snr. Communications Officer Synieka Thorne.

First-time visitor to Guyana, Carmen enjoying the show at D’Urban Park.

Packed stands at D’ Urban Park as Guyanese and visitors gathered to watch the Mashramani 2020 Costume and Float parade.

Faith Cumberbatch chatting with DPI Communications Officer Kellon Rover.

Annette Makenzie says she is proud to be home to celebrate Guyana’s 50th Republic anniversary.

A colorfully attired family out to enjoy the Costume and Float parade.

Carmen’s host, Faith Cumberbatch told DPI she always makes the effort to return home for these celebrations. “I get a certain vibe when I come home, from all the energies of the different people from all over. I really like it.”

Eliger Simpson was enjoying the beat of soca as she awaited the arrival of the floats. “I was not here the last time but I made sure I came this year…” Simpson explained. Noting that Guyana’s 50th Jubilee deserved to be celebrated.

The DPI team also sat down with Annette Makenzie who explained that Mashramani is very significant in her life. “the fact that we come so far. I am proud to be Guyanese even though I am living abroad I have never forgotten my roots. It shows how far we have come,” Makenzie said.

Meanwhile, seated among the spectators were His Excellency President David Granger, First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger, Prime Minister Hon. Moses Nagamootoo and his wife, Mrs. Sta Nagamootoo and Minister of State, Hon. Dawn Hastings -Williams.

“We have every right to celebrate. We have achieved so much for the past 50 years as a republic and for the five years, the Coalition Government has been in office. We have achieved so much in terms of Public Infrastructure we have built and renovated many of our roads throughout Guyana, we have built a lot of new schools within this short period of time and the lives of the citizens were improved. So, let’s celebrate!”  Minister Hastings-Williams said.

Mashramani is being observed under the theme Guyana Together: Reflect, Celebrate, Transform.