Saint Lucia officially launched activities to mark its 47th anniversary of Independence, with organizers highlighting unity, wellness, youth empowerment, and economic growth as central pillars of the celebrations.
Co-chair of the Independence Planning Committee Agustos Degaon called on Saint Lucians to embrace shared responsibility and collective purpose, noting that the nation’s progress has always been rooted in unity, resilience, and sacrifice.
“Guided by shared purpose and collective responsibility, moving forward together captures the very essence of our independence,” Degaon said. He reflected on the country’s achievements over the past 47 years, pointing to the strengthening of institutions, expanded access to education and healthcare, a deepened cultural identity, and greater opportunities for citizens.
Degaon stressed that national development must also prioritize health and well being, warning that the growing prevalence of non communicable diseases poses a serious threat to social and economic progress. He urged Saint Lucians to value locally grown foods, practice balanced nutrition, and make informed lifestyle choices, noting that poor health outcomes place heavy strain on families, communities, and the healthcare system.
“When our people are nourished physically, socially, emotionally, and economically, they are empowered to contribute fully to national life,” he said, adding that peace, respect, discipline, and emotional wellness are equally essential to building a strong nation.
Adding a creative voice to the launch, the young graphic designer behind the Independence 47 logo, Jada Khadoo, who described the opportunity as both an honour and a responsibility.
“Designing the Independence 47 logo was more than a project,” the designer said. “It was a responsibility that I accepted with pride. I wanted the design to capture the resilience, pride, and forward spirit of our nation as we celebrate 47 years of independence.”
Khadoo encouraged Saint Lucians to take pride in the celebrations and participate fully in the season’s activities.
Economic empowerment also featured prominently at the launch, with Sunita Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia, highlighting the growing impact of the Independence Business Expo, which this year marks its fourth anniversary.
Daniel announced that the expo will once again be held in the community of Vieuxfort, following the success of last year’s staging. She explained that while the first two editions were hosted in Castries, the move to Vieux Fort in the third year was warmly received by residents and businesses alike.
“This year, we decided that if it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” Daniel said. “So we’re taking the expo back to Vieux Fort, and we’re pleased to host it once again during the Independence weekend, which really speaks to how far the expo has come.”
She noted that the Business Expo has become a highly anticipated event, particularly among small and medium sized enterprises, with demand for participation growing each year. This year, organizers are targeting approximately 80 local businesses, all showcasing authentically Saint Lucian-made products and services, including manufacturing, services, and creative industries.
She highlighted government investments through initiatives such as the Youth Economy Agency and the MSME loan and grant facility, which have led to the establishment of hundreds of new businesses. Daniel said the expo provides a vital platform for these entrepreneurs to showcase their offerings to the public and beyond.
“What the Business Expo does is give everyone in Saint Lucia an opportunity to see who we are as a people,” Daniel said, describing the event as a fusion of food, music, dance, creativity, and commerce.
New features this year include a Friday night market, with plans for a local music DJ sound clash, followed by a full day of exhibitions on Saturday. The programme will also feature a live cooking demonstration, showcasing innovative ways to prepare local foods and beverages.
Daniel also revealed that international buyers from markets including Dubai, Barbados, Dominica, and Canada will attend the expo, creating opportunities for local businesses to expand into export markets.
“The Business Expo has already helped increase local purchasing by hotels and consumers,” she said. “Now we want to widen that impact by opening doors to export and international trade.”
The expo will culminate in a major Saturday night entertainment event featuring local soca artists, seamlessly leading into the Independence flag-raising ceremony and fireworks in Beaufort.
As Saint Lucia celebrates 47 years of nationhood, the Independence Committee emphasized that true independence is reflected not only in physical development, but in the health, creativity, unity, and economic empowerment of its people.
“When our communities rise, Saint Lucia shines,” Degaon said, encouraging citizens to celebrate Independence with purpose, pride, and participation.
Among the activities scheduled are the Independence Baton Relay, Independence Business Expo, National Independence Parade, Investiture Ceremony, 758 Independence Drag Race, Independence Super Moto, Seafood Festival, Independence Showcase, and the National Ecumenical Service, among others.
This year’s Independence activities and celebrations are being held under the theme “Douvan Ansanm: Nourishing Our People, Strengthening Our Nation.”
