According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) Anthony said among the presentation of an award to winner of the calypso competition Young Bill Rogers was one of the many highlights at this year’s fete. He also handed over awards to Trevor Rose of Facts ‘N’ Roses and Region Four Chairman Clement Corlette collected the region’s winning award for the full costume band competition.
Speaking at the prize giving ceremony at the Umana Yana last Friday, Anthony alluded to the tragedies at Lusignan and Bartica. He said government’s intention to proceed with the event was bolstered by the public’s support.
“If there’s one thing I know is that culture and sports are two things that bring this country together regardless of your race or political affiliation. Sports and culture are two things that Guyanese enjoy so we took a conscious decision that Mash would go on….”
GINA said this year’s celebrations under the theme ‘Let’s unite and celebrate in 2008’ were “beautiful” and “splendid.” Leading the way was a 300-member delegation from ‘The Body of Christ’ who distributed bibles and testaments as they made their way along the parade route.
Government ministries also took to the streets under various sub-themes. Concept Entertainment, the new participant in this year’s fete provided one of the larger floats that caught the audience’s attention.
Anthony also said more effort will be put into including topical issues such as HIV in the Mash programme.
