Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Namibia for naming a street in the capital, Windhoek, honoring Jamaica’s first national hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
The street renaming ceremony took place on Monday during Prime Minister Holness’ official working visit to the African nation.
“Naming a street in this capital city of Windhoek in honor of Marcus Garvey represents a demonstration of posterity of the value of the contribution of one who has played a lead role in countering negative appellations forced on black people in Africa and the Diaspora,” said Holness. He noted that the historic renaming of the street is a symbol of pride and honor.
Helps explains Marcus Garvey
“We in Jamaica are extremely proud yet deeply humbled that you have chosen to honor one of our own in this tangible way. This great gesture will undoubtably create curiosity among future generations, as they seek answers to the question, who was Marcus Garvey,” said Holness who added Jamaica continues to strengthen ties with the continent.
“It is a symbol of our geo-cultural and spiritual unification. Further, it is important for those of us African peoples dispersed far afield in places like the Caribbean and the Americas to have the opportunity to join in a gesture that re-establishes the original bonds of family and shared destinies. It is a truly good feeling that augurs well for ongoing and future collaboration.”
Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Jamaica’s first national hero, was a celebrated Pan Africanist, philosopher and leading exponent of black pride and consciousness. He was a self-declared citizen of a global Africa.
