“A moment of national pride” – PM Phillips says 56th Republic Anniversary celebrates Guyana’s journey, progress

REMARKS BY PRIME MINISTER, BRIGADIER (RET’D), THE HONOURABLE MARK PHILLIPS ON THE OCCASION OF GUYANA’S 56th REPUBLIC ANNIVERSARY

Fellow Guyanese, I extend warm greetings to you on the occasion of the 56th Republic Anniversary of our beloved Guyana. This is a moment of national pride when we celebrate our progress as a nation and reflect on how far we have come as a Co-operative Republic.

This year’s Mashramani theme, “Expressing Our Culture Through Innovation and Creativity,” speaks powerfully to who we are as a people and who we are becoming. It recognises that our culture is very much alive and well. Our culture keeps evolving and is continuously shaped by the talent and ingenuity of Guyanese from every background.

Guyana’s rich cultural heritage, rooted in the traditions of a vibrant mix of ethnicities, has always been a source of national strength. Today, we celebrate the preservation of these traditions as well as the new and exciting ways in which Guyanese are reimagining and expressing them through art, music, fashion, literature, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Innovation and creativity are essential drivers of development. They fuel new industries, create jobs, and open doors for our young people to turn passion into purpose. When we invest in creativity, we invest in the future of our nation.

As we celebrate today, I urge that we recommit ourselves to building a society that nurtures talent, supports innovation, and provides equal opportunities for all Guyanese to thrive. Let us continue to create spaces where ideas are welcomed, differences are respected, and excellence is encouraged.

Our Government remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing our vision for good governance, transparency, and inclusive development. We are working to build a strong and diversified economy, while ensuring that the benefits of progress are shared equitably among our people.

So, as we revel in the colours, rhythms, and creativity of Mashramani, may we remember that each expression of culture is also an expression of hope in our people, confidence in our abilities, and belief in the limitless potential of Guyana.

Happy 56th Republic Anniversary, Guyana!