BASSETERRE, ST. Kitts – WITH the Department of Culture confirming that it is eyeing participating at CARFESTA slated August 2017 in Barbados, the Tourism Ministry is looking to forge a partnership to promote the Federation’s cultural heritage.
This partnership is nothing new, according to the Events Director at Ministry of Culture Allister Williams, who explained that they have teamed up in a number of events, including the promotion of Music Festival.
He noted that the Ministry of Tourism often seeks to promote the indigenous culture of St. Kitts and Nevis, specifically the folklore groups and young artistes.
“This year we try to follow that same trend. And we are hoping to team up with Culture to do other initiatives, but we are not certain yet what the end result for CARIFESTA this year would be like.”
Williams disclosed that when it comes to CARIFESTA, the two governmental agencies would have to sit down and have a discussion on the best way forward.
Additionally, it has to be taken into consideration whether or not there is budgetary support to be able to participate at the event and what support can be given to the continent in support of the Ministries’ promotional thrust.
“At the end of the day, it is all about budget and whether or not we can afford it at this time. We are hoping that we can put some stuff together - all in preserving our cultural heritage and patrimony at the end of the day.”
The Caribbean Festival of Arts is the region’s biggest cultural festival and it assists in promoting the various islands.
This year’s festival was recently launched in host country Barbados to much fanfare.
St. Kitts and Nevis is expected to participate after missing the 2015 event in Haiti.
According to Director at the Department of Culture, Troy Mills, St. Kitts and Nevis could put in a request to host the event again.
