During a brief press conference upon returning to the capital from the 24th Caribbean Heads of Government meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Prime Minister Christie said he repeatedly informed the press about the beauty of the Jamaican tourism product.
He also urged Bahamians to exercise every degree of care with their product, as other countries are looking.
“They are also doing a wonderful job at trying to catch up. Right now, we still have some distance between us, but it is important for us to be aware that what separates The Bahamas from everyone, is that there are more Bahamians who are fully aware that the role they play in making our country strong and better has a direct impact on their lives,” he said.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that through Junkanoo, The Bahamas was given another opportunity to put its name on the map and make its presence felt while in Jamaica. He said that after an “extraordinary” Junkanoo performance to commemorate the 30th birthday of CARICOM by some 30 Junkanooers, he was asked by various countries to bring Junkanoo to them.
“The President of Guyana was absolutely amazed and Ambassadors from European countries were amazed, because there on display, every country made a cultural presentation, but Junkanoo was separate, distinct and wonderfully received,” he said.
During last week’s 2003 Junkanoo conclave, the Minister of Culture Neville Wisdom said locals and tourists who do not have the opportunity to experience the pulsating sounds of the parade, can take advantage of a soon to be established Junkanoo Expo. He said renovations would be carried out at the old customs building on Prince George Wharf to house the Expo.
A Junkanoo Expo is expected to create an environment that will provide a Junkanoo experience, in addition to audio and visual equipment. Large Junkanoo costumes would also be displayed and individual business booths will be established.
“It is envisioned that Junkanoo businesses will operate for patrons to see Junkanoo art works being produced on the spot and for them to be able to purchase these Junkanoo items.
The Expo will also have a logo shop featuring gift items, all reflecting the Junkanoo experience,” said Minister Wisdom, who added that any discussions and action of the Expo, will only be undertaken after the widest possible consultation between the Ministry, the National Junkanoo Committee and all other Junkanoo groups and stakeholders.
By Tamara McKenzie, The Nassau Guardian
