“Barbados will be hosting Carifesta in 2017.” 

Minister of Culture, Stephen Lashley made the announcement, yesterday, during a press conference at the Ministry’s Headquarters at Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall, St Michael.

According to the Minister, this ‘huge venture’ fits directly under the ministry’s mandate “to propel the growth of the cultural industries and to support our artistes.”

“We can reap significant dividends through the work of our artistes as they move across the globe, and our role in government is to support them.” he added.

Mr. Lashley noted that to ensure the success of the celebrations, action needed to be taken as early as possible; action which the ministry had in fact already begun to execute.

He stated that a committee had already been deployed within the ministry and work had started in terms of the planning for what he described as “a mammoth task.” 

“We are working very closely with the Caricom Secretariat.” he added. This would be the second time in 36 years that Barbados would host Carifesta.

jamal.weekes@barbados.gov.bb