WILLIAM GRIFFITH
CEO of the Barbados Tourism Marketing inc. (BTMI)
A number of exciting events are being planned to celebrate
Barbados’ 50th anniversary of independence on November 30, 2016, is being commemorated with a yearlong golden jubilee that will be a source of immense pride for Barbadians at home and in the diaspora.
Since independence from Britain in 1966, Barbados has made many strides to become a model and source of inspiration for other independent island states in the Caribbean and further afield.
Within a stable system of parliamentary democracy, generations of leaders have forged strong socio-economic policies to afford quality education, health care and social services. This high quality of life enjoyed by our citizens has also made Barbados a preferred domicile for many international businesses and a destination of choice for millions of travellers.
During these past 50 years Barbados’ relationship with the UK has remained strong, resulting in significant reciprocal links. The familiarity of the island’s network of communities and towns to those in the UK, as well as access to regular airlift capacity via legacy air carriers such as the once-revered Concorde, has established Barbados as a choice destination. As many Barbadians travel to visit their extended families who migrated to Britain to take up important roles in that economy, Britons also trace their lineage with ancestors who settled in this former British colony, often setting up second homes on the island. These tourism links have extended to become a major part of the island’s economic success as more than 35 per cent of visitors to Barbados originate from Britain. At the Barbados Tourism Marketing inc., through it’s Bridgetown and London offices in particular, we continue to pursue creative means via which we can sustain this vital tourism relationship. Working alongside our partners in the industry, we play our part to deliver unique experiences that result in employment for thousands within both countries. Certainly, the foreign exchange generated is a major impetus for the management of the Barbadian economy.
Bearing this in mind, Barbadians living in Britain who are connected with the tourism sector should feel a source of pride and accomplishment.
As the island marks this important milestone at home and abroad, Barbadians and friends of this beautiful nation are encouraged to show their support for the many celebratory events being held. Through the stories shared and volunteer efforts, we will also pause to reflect on all that we have accomplished since 1966. Let us all commit to playing our part to preserve the legacy of these past 50 years, for the benefit of generations now and those to come.