Barbados celebrates 50th anniversary of Independence

Barbados celebrates 50^th anniversary of Independence

Barbados is celebrating the 50^th anniversary of independence from Britain on November 30.

Britain’s Prince Harry, who arrived in the country on Tuesday, is the highest profile guest for the celebrations.

In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said that the island had made significant socio-economic and political strides during the past 50 years and that the pursuit and achievement of nationhood was never intended to be an end in itself.

“It was not just a search for psychic satisfaction. We pursued nationhood in order that we might take our destiny into our own hands and mould that destiny in such a way as would develop to the fullest extent possible the hidden potential of our people.”

In his wide-ranging message, Stuart told Barbadians that celebrating 50 years of political independence must be an occasion to drive home the importance of being independent.

Meanwhile, five nationals are being honoured with National Awards.

Prominent businessman Sir Ronald Geoffrey Cave, and attorney Sir John Andrew Connell have received the top honour of Knight of St. Andrew, while the newest Dame of St Andrew is Selma Udine Jackman for extraordinary and outstanding achievement and merit in service to Barbados or to humanity at large.

The Companion of Honour has been awarded to the former publisher of the Barbados Advocate newspaper, Anthony Theophilus Bryan, and Dr. Henrick O.C. Ellis, who has been a leading light in the fight against HIV/AIDS.