BASSETERRE St.kitts, July 25th, 2011 - In an effort to solidify relations with Carnival stakeholders, officials from the National Carnival Committee along with The Honourable Marcella Liburd, Minister of Culture, met with various stakeholders five months ahead of the start of the 40th Anniversary of St. Kitts-Nevis National Carnival (Sugar Mas) to chart a path forward for a successful Sugar Mas 2011 -2012.

On Tuesday 19th July, calypsonians, vendors, band members and a wide cross section of other stakeholders involved in Carnival, assembled at Nema Headquarters where they listened intently, aired concerns and provided recommendations to the Committee for a more effective hosting of this year’s Sugar Mas.

In her well received presentation, Minister Liburd made reference to the socio-economic impact of Carnival to the Federation and told the audience that even though the number of events that do not realize profits during Carnival are much greater than the number of events which are profitable these events were “essential and important to the sustainability and growth of our culture and tradition”. 

She further examined the multiplier effect of Carnival to the economy and applauded the many local small businesses such as lighting, stage and sound that have been given the opportunity to develop tremendously as a result of their involvement in Sugar Mas’.

Deputy Chair of the National Carnival, Ms Shannon Hawley, announced the Committee’s intention to celebrate 40 days of Carnival for the upcoming 40th Anniversary by including more events on the carnival calendar that are geared not only to Mas’ and Competitions but also focusing on our youth as well as showcasing our literary, performing and culinary arts.

She encouraged stakeholders, promoters, volunteers and youth organizations to make use of the extended carnival period and reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to including multiple private events on the annual Carnival calendar.

In closing it was revealed that a schedule of stakeholder focus meetings would be advertised in the media to hear first hand concerns of a wider cross section of stakeholders and garner additional opinions on how to improve this year’s Carnival.

The first of one such meeting is set for Wednesday 27th July with our sponsors.  We hope to engage in open and frank discussions on how we can strengthen our efforts to continue to rebrand our carnival and stage a memorable 40th anniversary of Carnival. 

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