BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – In a heartfelt address marking Barbados’ 58th Independence and third year as a Republic, Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley called on Barbadians to reflect on the sacrifices of their ancestors and work collectively for a prosperous future. Speaking at the Independence Ceremonial Parade at Kensington Oval on Saturday, Mottley urged the nation to embrace resilience and unity as they face a range of ongoing challenges.
“While 2024 has been a year of significant adversity, we have proven time and again that we are a people defined by our strength and perseverance,” Mottley said. She reminded the crowd that Barbados, though small in size, is powerful in spirit. She highlighted the enduring legacy of resilience stemming from the nation’s history, including its struggles with slavery and colonialism, and the current challenges such as economic pressure, climate change, and social unrest.
Drawing inspiration from Shirley Chisholm, the late trailblazer and first Black woman to run for U.S. President, Mottley quoted, “‘We must see ourselves in an entirely new perspective… get up and prepare our own way.’ These words resonate today as we continue our fight for a better future, ensuring that no Barbadian will ever be a tenant in their own land but will always be a proud owner.”
The Prime Minister also emphasized the government’s efforts to rebuild key sectors of the economy, including the fishing industry, which was devastated by Hurricane Beryl. With 90 percent of the industry affected, the government is committed to revitalizing the sector, repairing harbors, and constructing new infrastructure to withstand future climate challenges.
In her speech, Mottley highlighted recent achievements such as the restoration of free tertiary education and a significant reduction in the nation’s debt-to-GDP ratio. Looking ahead to 2025, she expressed optimism for a year filled with growth, energy, and construction, marking a turning point in the country’s development.
Mottley also announced the unveiling of a monument in May at the Newton Burial Ground in Christ Church, to honor the contributions and sacrifices of Barbados’ ancestors. Additionally, she revealed that the We Gatherin’ celebrations, paused due to the pandemic, would resume in 2025, starting in St Lucy and culminating in St Michael.
As the nation looks to the future, Mottley made a special plea to the youth of Barbados. “To our young people, the seeds of leadership are in your hands,” she urged. “You are the future of this nation, and it is through your actions, respect for one another, and commitment to peace that we will ensure a harmonious society.”
The event also featured remarks from U.S. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, who praised the close relationship between Barbados and the United States. Jeffries highlighted a recent historic memorandum of understanding between Barbados and the U.S. Export-Import Bank, securing US$500 million for renewable energy, cyber security, water, sanitation, and maritime infrastructure projects. He also emphasized the importance of global cooperation in tackling the existential threat of climate change.
“As a frontline nation in the battle against climate change, Barbados, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mottley, is setting the stage for a future in which small island states are key players in the global fight against this crisis,” Jeffries said.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Mottley’s message was clear: Together, with unity and resilience, Barbados can overcome any challenge and continue to build a future of prosperity, peace, and sustainable growth.
