National Stadium packed with people, grand opening ceremony – Jamaica Information Services

On August 6, the National Stadium in Kingston was packed as tens of thousands of Jamaicans gathered for the annual gala celebrations marking the 62nd anniversary of Jamaica’s independence.

The grand celebration is the culmination of the 2024 Independence celebrations, with the theme “Jamaica 62, One Love… For the World”.

Speaking to reporters, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the celebrations symbolized Jamaica’s determination to recover and rebuild after the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl.

“Right now, the focus must be on resilience. But there is also a long-term goal, which is to increase our productivity and enhance peace. Let us all focus on this, which will build not only our political independence but also our economic independence,” he said.

Prime Minister Holness expressed his delight at the large turnout and said the high turnout reflected the national pride of Jamaicans.

“This event brings people together and creates a spirit that allows us to reflect on what it really means to be Jamaican. There are many benefits to being Jamaican… The world sees us as a small island that has achieved a lot in the world. If there is any small country that is best known in the world, it is Jamaica,” he noted.

Patrons enjoyed performances of gospel, dancehall, mando, reggae and African music.

Kimiela “Candy” Isaacs, the 2024 festival song winner, and gospel singers Rhoda Isabella and Kevin Downswell gave the crowd a standing ovation with their electrifying performances.

Other highlights included a lion dance performance by the Guangdong Association, showcasing the rich history of the Chinese community in Jamaica, while the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) performed an all-female training display to mark 75 years of women serving in the police force.

Several veterans of Jamaican music and culture were honored for their contributions to the development of reggae music and its growth and popularity in Jamaica and around the world.

The Reggae Icon Tribute Award was presented to world-renowned band Third World, which has been ambassadors of Jamaican music for 51 years.

Patricia Chin, co-founder of the world’s largest independent reggae music label, also received the award for her contribution to the promotion and development of Caribbean music and culture over five decades.

Dancehall artists Moses “Beenie Man” Davis and Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price were recognized for their contributions to promoting Jamaican music.

Patron Kavena Williams, who witnesses the celebrations from the stands every year, told JIS News that she enjoys the positive vibe and spirit of unity that the grand celebration promotes.

“I feel great. It’s great to be out and see the wonderful Independence Day celebrations. I love these every year. It’s great that everyone is out and enjoying themselves… I thank God for blessing this country and giving us another year,” she said.

The event culminated with a spectacular display of 1,000 drones lighting up the night sky, featuring cultural icons such as Robert “Bob” Marley, Louise “Miss Lou” Bennett Coverley, and track and field star Usain Bolt.

The Jamaica Red Cross, through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), is working with the Ministry of Culture, Gender Entertainment and Sports to collect donations for those affected by Hurricane Beryl.