Message from His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda on the 43rd Anniversary of Independence
November 1, 2024
My Fellow Citizens and Residents of Antigua and Barbuda,
On this, our nation’s 43rd Independence Day, my family and I join you in celebrating another year of progress and resilience. This year, we gather under the theme, “From Community Collaboration to Global Gains”, a theme that reminds us of the strength we find in unity and the potential we unlock through cooperation.
The power of community collaboration has held a special meaning for me over the past few weeks during challenging times. My family and I were deeply moved by the tremendous outpouring of support, prayers, and well-wishes from citizens, residents, and friends, both at home and abroad. The exemplary cooperation demonstrated by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Government of the People’s Republic of China, and the Chinese Ambassador and her team reflects the very essence of our independence theme. My heartfelt gratitude to you all.
In keeping with this spirit of celebration, I also extend my congratulations to this year’s national honorees selected by the Honours Committee.
Their achievements reflect the resilience and dedication of many unsung heroes who quietly strengthen our nation. Each year, we recognize a select few who have gone above and beyond in their service, while remaining equally grateful to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make invaluable contributions to Antigua and Barbuda.
Community and collaboration begin close to home. It starts with community groups, neighbours, friends, and families, who share common interests and work together to make a difference.
Whether it’s addressing waste disposal, beautifying neighborhoods, or creating safer spaces, these efforts uplift us all. Each small, collective action builds the foundation of a stronger, more cohesive society, creating a ripple effect that touches every part of our national community.
Yet, as we reflect on our contributions locally, we must also recognize our place within the wider world. Just as communities collaborate to improve their local surroundings, so must we, as a small island nation, engage with other countries to address shared challenges that affect us all. When nations unite to tackle global issues like climate change, environmental protection, and sustainable development, our combined efforts have a profound impact. Together, we move from community-driven initiatives to global progress.
Environmental concerns are especially pressing for small island developing states like ours. Our beloved Antigua and Barbuda is particularly vulnerable to climate change, with rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and increasingly intense hurricanes threatening our ecosystems.
Our coral reefs, vital marine environments, and coastal habitats are under threat, endangering the natural beauty and biodiversity that we hold dear and upon which our tourism and marine industries depend. Community collaboration in environmental protection, both locally and internationally, is therefore essential, not only to preserve our natural heritage but also to secure our future.
Today, as we celebrate 43 years of independence, let us commit to advancing our communities through unity, respect, and stewardship. Let us stand in solidarity with the global community, recognizing that the challenges we face are not ours alone. Through purposeful collaboration, we can work toward a future where all nations, large and small, share the benefits of a healthy, resilient planet.
Fellow citizens, residents, and friends, Happy Independence to each and every one of you. May we continue to move from strength to strength, grounded in community and rising to meet global challenges together.
May God bless Antigua and Barbuda.
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