Jamaica's 50th anniversary celebrations launched in London

Jamaican High Commissioner to the United Kingdom His Excellency Anthony Johnson addresses hundreds of people who attended the launch of Jamaica 50 in the United Kingdom at the O2 Arena in London on Tuesday, December 13.

London:

The celebrations to mark Jamaica's 50th Anniversary of Independence got off to a colourful start at the O2 Arena in London on Tuesday evening.

A kaleidoscope of music, dance and other cultural presentations satisfied curiosities with a taste of what is to be expected as Jamaica celebrates its Golden Jubilee in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2012.

An exciting calendar of events spanning January to December was unveiled. Among the major activities will be gospel concerts, reggae concerts, a Jamaica versus England masters' cricket match and a range of festivals which will showcase Jamaica's rich culinary and artistic talents.

Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK, His Excellency Anthony Johnson said the golden jubilee presents a wonderful opportunity for Jamaica to reflect on its triumphs in many areas of life and to celebrate its unique ability to impact the world as a small island state.

He told hundreds who gathered at the glitzy Black Music Experience Museum at the O2 that Jamaica's future will be determined by the nation's ability to build on its successes in the areas of music, athletics, academia and the arts and its ability to fully utilise Brand Jamaica.

Olivia Grange, minister of youth, sports and culture, sent a message which outlined the importance of the historical links between Jamaica and the UK.

significance of hosting the Olympic Games

She emphasised the significance of the Olympic Games being held in London during the Golden Jubilee year.

"We are very excited because we know that our athletes will take centre stage at the Olympics. This will help to widen the spread of enthusiasm around our anniversary. We hope to leave an indelible mark on the UK landscape so that after 2012, respect for Jamaica's contribution to development in the UK will continue to grow in leaps and bounds. It is very important that we create a lasting legacy which will have a positive impact on the young people and benefit generations to come."

The evening was hosted by Britain's former 110-metre hurdles world record holder Colin Jackson who is of Jamaican parentage. There were performances by former East Enders actress Angela Wynter and rising UK reggae star Gappy Ranks among others.

The Jamaica 50 calendar of events reflects activities in most major cities across the United Kingdom. On Independence Day, August 6, 2012, all Borough Councils where Jamaicans reside will be asked to raise the Jamaican flag and stage a ceremony in honour of 50 years of Jamaican nationhood.

The celebrations in the UK will coincide with those in Jamaica, the United States and Canada and other countries where significant numbers of Jamaicans reside.