SDG Float Launched for Antigua Carnival

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the United Nations Resident Coordinator Country Office in Antigua and Barbuda, have partnered to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the nation's 2024 Carnival Celebrations.

This initiative, which takes the form of a carnival float promoting food security through a simulated backyard garden, highlighting the associated SDGs, is the brainchild of the Honourable E. P Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who until just prior to the start of the carnival celebrations, held the ministerial responsibility for the Ministry of Agriculture.  He explained the rationale behind his idea:

"Sustainable development is the pathway to preserving a bright future for all our people as it offers a framework promoting inclusivity, economic growth generation, prosperity, poverty alleviation, zero hunger, partnership good health and well- being amongst others."

Boasting a kaleidoscope of colours, the float  is representative of a typical Antiguan and Barbudan backyard consisting of several fruit trees, including banana trees, the world famous Antigua Black Pineapple and seedlings, a water source and catchment facilities, a pond for fishing and the world renowned frigate bird flying overhead. Dominating the  front of the float is a majestic colour wheel referencing the seventeen United Nations SDGs. Additionally, the SDGs goals directly linked to food security , SDGs 2, 3, 5, 6,8,10, 14 and 15,  are separately highlighted.

Director of International Trade and SDGs Focal Point for Antigua and Barbuda, Joy-Marie King, explained,

 "the float was unveiled during the opening carnival parade and will grace the streets of St. John's again during the closing of the Caribbean's greatest summer festival on 6th August, 2024. "

Participating in the parade were representatives from the respective Ministries as well as UN agencies and Offices including the Resident Coordinator Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, UN WOMEN, and UNESCO. The United Nations is committed to continue supporting SDG acceleration and advocacy efforts in Antigua and Barbuda and pledges its continued support for SDG initiatives. 

As the agency with the mandate tor intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information, UNESCO office for the Caribbean, through its Advisor for Communication & Information, Dr. Paul Hector, shared a special message for carnival.

 Carnival is a vibrant celebration of our rich cultural heritage. It underscores the synergy between culture, creativity, and technological innovation. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Roadmap for the Caribbean, particularly its emphasis on creativity and culture, is a testament to UNESCO’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and enhancing well-being through innovative and inclusive approaches. 

"By responsibly harnessing AI, we can not only preserve and promote our diverse cultural expressions but also drive forward-thinking solutions that support the Sustainable Development Goals. Together with our national and regional partners we are shaping a future where technology and tradition coexist harmoniously, enriching the lives of our communities and contributing to wellbeing and a more equitable world," he added.

Here's to hoping that SDG Floats become a permanent feature of carnivals around the region, as week seek to make these global goals more real to ordinary citizens.