The 50th Independence Secretariat and Government of Grenada proudly unveiled the newly named Caricom Roundabout, previously known as the True Blue Roundabout, in a ceremony on Sunday, 28 July.
The unveiling was held as part of the activities for the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom, which was held in Grenada. This historic unveiling was deemed a celebration of the region’s unity and strength.
The idea for the renaming emerged during discussions on the celebrations of Grenada’s Golden Jubilee. The committee found it imperative to mark Grenada’s continuous contributions to regional integration. The 50th Secretariat held public consultations on which roundabout should be renamed for this purpose. The monument on the roundabout features a circular design adorned with the name of each member and associate member state of the Caribbean Community (Caricom).
At the unveiling ceremony, respective heads of government and representatives of countries whose heads of government were absent pulled the covering from each monument, marking a significant moment in the history of Caricom and Grenada.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Gail Purcell, Director of the Independence Secretariat, expressed her pride in the project. “Right at this very spot marks the entrance to the venue of Grenada’s first Caribbean exposition held 55 years ago, under the leadership of our father of Independence Sir Eric Matthew Gairy and dubbed Carifta Expo 69.”
Hon. Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, also spoke at the ceremony and highlighted the importance of having the ceremony 28 days after the passage of Hurricane Beryl. Prime Minister Mitchell explained, “We chose to have this gathering to demonstrate that no matter how many times we get punched in the face, no matter how many times we in Caricom get knocked down, we will rise again and again.” He continued by underscoring the significance of the location of the roundabout: “This site ensures that anyone who visits Grenada by air, upon entering and leaving the island, will pass through this Caricom roundabout. We have chosen this site because we wish to make it clear that the Caribbean Community is integral to Grenada’s identity and that Grenada is an integral part of the Caribbean Community.”
The roundabout fixture was the vision of Orlando Romain, Advisor to the Government. It was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Handystand Brand and Steel Magnate, who brought their expertise and dedication to the project.
The 50th Independence Secretariat extends its gratitude to all who worked on creating the Caricom Roundabout and to the community for their continued support. This landmark will forever symbolise the unity and strength of the Caribbean region.
50th Independence Secretariat
