Castries, Saint Lucia: Ernest Hilaire, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism of Saint Lucia informed through his social media account that he visited seven offices before the Jouné Kwéyòl festival for breakfast and lunch on Friday, October 27, 2023. The festival is celebrated annually on the last Friday of the month of October.
He first went to the office of Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) of Saint Lucia. The country’s citizenship by Investment programme ranks in top 3 positions. DPM Hilaire shares a glimpse of his visit to the CIP office on his social media, appreciating the hospitality shown by them.
Appreciating their service, DPM Hilaire wrote, “Today, I have confirmed to visit 7 offices to share in our kweyol delights. I started with the Citizenship by Investment Unit. Their decor was first class! Hats off to the staff”.
He emphasized that hosting kweyol breakfast and lunch and other Festivities on Friday before Jounen Kweyol is a feature of the celebration of Creole Heritage Month (Mwa Ewitaj Kwéyòl).
Later, Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire paid a visit to the office of Saint Lucia Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Creative, Industries, information and Culture.
He also visited the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), where the dedicated staff warmly welcomed him. Together, they participated in a memorable celebration of Kwéyòl (Creole) culture alongside sister agencies, colleagues, and visiting diaspora.
The event was made even more special by the opportunity for visiting Saint Lucians to sign up for the Lucian Links Program, which aims to strengthen connections and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the island.
As the day unfolded on Vendredi Kwéyòl (Creole Friday), the SLTA staff fully immersed themselves in the festivities, wholeheartedly embracing the vibrant traditions that make Saint Lucia a standout destination.
The traditional clothing worn by the participants created an atmosphere of pure joy and happiness.