Emancipation/Independence Activities from July 31 to August 6

Emancipation/Independence celebration activities are to be held from July 31 to August 6, with major emphasis on the country’s significant achievements over the years.

This year, the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport is partnering with J. Wray & Nephew Limited, which will be providing sponsorship support worth $20 million, to stage the islandwide events.

The signing of the agreement was held on Wednesday, June 12, at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices.

In her address, Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange, said the partnership with J. Wray & Nephew Limited in the execution of these important national celebrations is testament to the company’s long history in Jamaica and represents the “spirit of Independence”.

“As we embark on this journey commemorating Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence, let us celebrate our achievements and remain steadfast in building a better Jamaica with arts and culture at the forefront,” Minister Grange said.

For his part, Managing Director of J. Wray & Nephew Limited, Jean-Phillippe Beyer, said in addition to the company’s commitment of $20 million to support the various events being executed throughout the period, it will also provide support to its private-sector partners in hosting other related activities to ensure that Jamaicans across the island can experience the best of Jamaica 62.

“In calling ourselves ‘The Spirit of Jamaica’, and because we are enthusiastic believers and ambassadors of Brand Jamaica, it is only fitting that we be part of the Emancipation and Independence celebrations,” Mr. Beyer noted.

In the meantime, Ms. Grange said this year’s celebrations promise exciting activities each day over the period.

The festivities will commence with a media launch on June 20, all leading up to the finale, the Grand Gala on Independence Day, August 6.

Flagship events, including the Jamaica Festival Song, the Jamaica Festival Queen and the Jamaica Gospel Star Competitions are to be staged.

All shows are free and open to the public.

The Emancipation/Independence events are being executed by the Ministry, through the implementing agency, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC).