Prime Minister John Briceño announced in the House of Representatives on Thursday that Prime Minister Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is scheduled to arrive in Belize on November 18 to participate in the nation’s upcoming Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations.
The visiting delegation will include Prime Minister Friday, his wife, and a government minister. According to the announcement, the delegation is expected to take part in official events on November 19, immersing themselves in Garifuna music, heritage, and culture throughout their stay.
The visit holds deep historical significance for both nations. St. Vincent, known to the Garifuna people as Yurumein, is recognized as their ancestral homeland. In his address to parliament, Prime Minister Briceño highlighted this historical connection and paid tribute to the enduring role of the Garifuna community in shaping modern Belize.
Recognizing their foundational impact across Belizean society, Prime Minister Briceño commended the Garifuna people for their significant contributions in education, agriculture, music, food, and the arts. He extended an invitation to all Belizeans to join in the November 19 celebrations to mark Garifuna Settlement Day and honor this cultural milestone.
