KINGSTON – In 1962, Jamaicans watched as the Union Jack was lowered and the black, green and gold flag of Jamaica hoisted to represent the birth of a new independent nation. Fifty years later the nation remembered that historic moment today with their annaula Independence anniversary celebrations.
Hundreds of Jamaicans who live overseas have already returned home to participate in not only independence celebrations but to witness the performance of Jamaican athletes at the London Olympic games.The island is decked out in the colours of the flag – along sidewalks, light poles and billboards as patriotism sweeps the nation.
Activities to be held across the island will include street dances, street parades as well as events that are already in progress such as the Golden Jubilee Village and the National Stadium and the annual Denbigh Agricultural Show.
Specially invited guests include the President of the Republic of South Africa, Jacob Zuma who is scheduled to arrive here on Monday for a two day state visit. An advance South African team, headed by a vice minister, is already in Jamaica
From the region, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago will also participate in the 50th Anniversary of Independence celebrations. While in Jamaica the Trinidadian Prime Minister will participate in several official functions, including a state dinner hosted by the Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.
In her message to mark the 50th anniversary of Independence, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller said Jamaicans should be proud of the progress made so far.
“Jamaica has one of the most stable democracies in the world; we have had significant infrastructural improvement; we have expanded and improved health care delivery and education . . . in the area of sport and music, we are the toast of the world . . .”
“Our 50th anniversary comes at a time when our athletes are participating in the Games of the 30th Olympiad in London. They are following in the footsteps of those who blazed the path to international sporting glory for Jamaica from the 1940’s until now.”
“My fellow Jamaicans, across the city of London, with every stride that they made, our Jamaican spirits soared. With every jump high or long, we heard a proud Jamaican roar. With every stroke that was swam we felt Jamaican more and more. I say to our sportsmen and women their managers and coaches, their families, schools and their communities; on behalf of a grateful nation I thank you,” she said. (CMC)