by Linda Straker
“Striving towards our destiny with faith and courage as one people,” is the theme under which the 2016 Independence celebrations will be observed.
The unveiling of the logo and theme was the highlight of a launch of activities held on Tuesday morning, as part of the post cabinet briefing. It was the winning piece by St Joseph Convent student, Simone LaQua.
The National Celebrations Committee held a competition for secondary schools following the 2015 celebrations with a prize of EC$500 for the logo winner, and the student with the chosen theme.
Ann Marie Marecheau, Chairman of the National Celebrations Committee, said that Ms LaQua’s design and theme won the approval of the judges and as a result she will receive EC$1,000. The money will be presented to her on Independence Day as part of the independence celebrations at the National Stadium.
It was explained that cocoa will be the focus of the year’s activities because of its added value contribution to the economy. The chairman said that over the years people have grown accustomed to the use of the nutmeg, but for 2016 the attention will be on cocoa.
Culture Minister Brenda Hood, said that the 2016 celebrations is off to an early start, and as a result she expects the 42nd independence celebration will be bigger and better than 2015. She expressed her disappointment with the number of people who turned out to witness the parade and rally for the 2015 celebrations.
Activities for 2016 will include the parish rallies, tennis and cricket competitions for secondary schools, a motorcade in the lead up to the event, and a national calypso competition. Hood said that 2016 will mark the start of honouring persons through the 2007 National Honours Act, and as a result the first batch of persons who were named in accordance with the Act will also receive recognition medals. “Those who died, their families will be invited to receive the medals,” said Hood.
On the day of the celebrations the Ministry of Trade will be organising a “Made in Grenada” expo, which will provide an avenue for local entrepreneurs to display their goods and services to the public.