Promoting Prosperity and Unity at Core of Independence 33 Theme

Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 23, 2016 (SKNIS):  This year’s 33rd Independence Anniversary will be celebrated under the theme “Promoting Prosperity through Sustainability and National Unity.” The theme was chosen from a number of entries that were submitted to the Cabinet Secretariat.

 The Honourable Wendy Phipps, Chairperson of the 2016 Independence Planning Committee, gave an update on the theme competition on Tuesday, August 23, at the sitting of National Parliament.

 “A national Independence theme competition was launched by the planning committee in July and that yielded some 29 entries from the public whom we commend for the outpouring of patriotic involvement by the response that they have given,” said the Honourable Wendy Phipps.

 Minister Phipps used the occasion to recognize the winner Mr. Jermaine Gaskin of New Pond Site, Basseterre, as well as all who participated.

 “We also by extension thank all of our citizens and residents who responded in such a patriotic manner in terms of the number of responses that we did receive in terms of the themes,” she said. “There were all good themes but in the end only one can win.”

 She encouraged all to take part in the Independence celebrations going forward.

 “I would like to basically encourage the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, both our citizens and residents to come out and support the various events that we will be hosting for Independence,” said Minister Phipps. “This is an opportunity as is any other time, but it is the best time to basically show this country how much we care about it. It is a time to be patriotic. It is a time to focus on the things that make us distinctly Kittitians and Nevisians, so we encourage everyone to take part. Meanwhile, I would also like to extend gratitude to various members of the Independence Committee who continue to render their service, ideas and suggestions that are all geared towards making the 33rd Anniversary of Independence a success.”

 In his monthly press conference on July 27, Prime Minister, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, encouraged every citizen and resident to get fully involved in the Independence celebrations. He reminded them that it is the major time in the country when the opportunity is given to demonstrate national pride, patriotism and focus on the gifts, talents, resources and opportunities bestowed on all.

Equally important, in his 2015 Independence Day Address, Prime Minister Harris told the Nation that, “Our theme expresses the values of togetherness and unity.  It acknowledges that we are better when we work together.  We hope that our Independence theme encourages all of us to work productively to keep our Nation resilient and strong.  If our people are our greatest asset then the unity of our people must be the qualitative condition which we cherish most.  Our humanity, our industry, our creativity and our conscience must shine through at all times.”

 The winner will be duly recognized by Cabinet, including being issued with official invitations to all major Independence events over which the Government has control.  The winning theme will also be incorporated in all communications and events surrounding the Independence celebrations.

You might also like