St. Vincent marks 47 years of independence under ‘Hand in Hand’ theme
Key Points(5)
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is celebrating 47 years of independence from Britain on Tuesday, with Prime Minister [name to be confirmed] calling for unity, economic growth and greater opportunities for citizens.
- The Eastern Caribbean nation gained independence on Oct.
- 27, 1979, becoming the last of the Windward Islands to do so.
- This year’s celebrations are being held under the theme “Hand in Hand, Uplifting Our Nation.” The National Independence Parade is scheduled for 5 p.m.
- local time at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex, followed by a cultural program.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is celebrating 47 years of independence from Britain on Tuesday, with Prime Minister Godwin Friday calling for unity, economic growth and greater opportunities for citizens.
The Eastern Caribbean nation gained independence on Oct. 27, 1979, becoming the last of the Windward Islands to do so.
This year’s celebrations are being held under the theme “Hand in Hand, Uplifting Our Nation.” The National Independence Parade is scheduled for 5 p.m. local time at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex, followed by a cultural program.
In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Friday extended greetings to Vincentians at home and abroad, reflecting on the country’s progress and the challenges that remain.
He highlighted the need to create opportunities for young people, improve public safety, protect the environment and expand economic growth that benefits all citizens.
The prime minister also pointed to cleaner and cheaper energy as a priority for economic development, while pledging to improve access to health care and education, raise living standards and support vulnerable communities.
“Our development must reach every Vincentian,” he said, calling for greater support for farmers, fishers and workers, as well as improved opportunities for young people to build their futures at home.
He also recognized the contribution of Vincentians living abroad, describing their achievements, investments and continued connection to the country as valuable national assets.
The prime minister said the independence theme reflects a shared responsibility for the nation’s future, requiring cooperation among the government, communities, institutions and the diaspora.
“Governments can lead, but lasting progress requires the collective effort of citizens, communities, institutions, and the Vincentian diaspora,” he said.
He urged citizens to recommit to hard work, integrity, unity and service to the country as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines looks toward its next chapter of development.
