Ministry of Health Promotes National Pride through Saint Lucia Independence Baton Relay

The vibrant streets of Castries, St. Lucia, came alive on February 18th, 2024, as the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs joined the Independence Baton Relay, a symbolic event commemorating the nation’s 46th year of independence. The relay, a powerful display of national unity and pride, saw the baton traversing the city, carried by representatives from various organizations, each leg symbolizing a shared commitment to St. Lucia’s progress and future. For the Ministry of Health, the event held particular significance, aligning perfectly with the year’s Independence theme: “Douvan Ansanm: Health and Wellbeing for a Prosperous Nation.” The relay served as a platform to underscore the ministry’s dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of all Saint Lucians.

Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, the Ministry’s team, brimming with national pride and a deep sense of purpose, received the baton at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Their journey began with a spirited march through the heart of Castries, culminating at the William Peter Boulevard. This symbolic act represented not just a physical relay, but a relay of commitment, with the Ministry of Health taking up the mantle of promoting health and wellness as an integral part of the nation’s journey towards prosperity.

Jenny Daniel, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, expressed her profound pride in participating in the relay, emphasizing its significance in highlighting the Ministry’s role in national development. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to the Independence theme, highlighting their ongoing efforts to expand healthcare access, strengthen Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and promote wellness initiatives. These initiatives encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from preventive care and essential health services to community-driven wellness programs, all aimed at fostering a culture of health and well-being across the nation. Daniel’s message underscored the Ministry’s dedication to empowering individuals to embrace healthy lifestyles, leading to longer, happier, and more fulfilling lives.

The sentiment of pride and commitment resonated strongly with Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George, who emphasized the alignment of the Independence theme with the Ministry’s ongoing advocacy for healthy lifestyles. The participation of representatives from various health sectors in the relay further solidified the collective effort toward achieving national wellness goals. Dr. Belmar-George’s enthusiasm highlighted the Ministry’s proactive approach to promoting health and wellness as a cornerstone of national prosperity.

Adding to the chorus of voices championing the cause of health and well-being was Chief Environmental Health Officer Cheryl Eugene St. Romain. She underscored the relay’s value as a public education platform, emphasizing key aspects of environmental health such as vector control and other crucial components. The Baton Relay, even in its short duration, provided a valuable opportunity to reach a wide audience and raise awareness about the critical role of environmental health in overall well-being.

The Ministry’s participation in the Independence Baton Relay served as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of health and national prosperity. The relay itself, a dynamic symbol of unity and progress, saw the baton passed from the Ministry’s representatives to another organization, continuing its journey through the city streets, carrying with it the shared aspirations and hopes of a nation. This seamless transition embodied the spirit of collaboration and collective responsibility in building a healthier and more prosperous St. Lucia. The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs expressed its profound gratitude to all participants and organizers, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of every Saint Lucian, ensuring that the spirit of “Douvan Ansanm” – Moving Forward Together – continues to guide the nation’s progress.