Sugar Mas 52 turns massive success: Samal Duggins

St Kitts and Nevis: Minister of Creative Economy Samal Duggins was thrilled to witness that the Sugar Mas 52 Carnival exceeded all expectations and was a massive success.

Thousands of revellers flooded the streets of Basseterre for the grand culmination of St Kitts & Nevis National Carnival 2023/24 on Tuesday.

[caption id="attachment_65802" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] PC - Facebook[/caption] The St Kitts Nevis National Carnival 2023, aka Sugar Mas 52, ran from December 15, 2023, to January 2, 2024, and featured various events and activities, including pageants, parades and much more. Several competitions were also held in which individuals showcased their talents and won several titles, such as the Ultra Carnival was named the Mas Band of the Year, and the EBJ Harmonics became the Panorama Champs.

Not only did hundreds and thousands of citizens take to the streets, but also the leaders of St Kitts Nevis Labour Party joined them in this huge celebration, which shows the culture and traditions of the twin-island nation.

Prime Minister Terrance Drew, Minister Denzil Douglas, Minister Duggins, and Minister Geoffrey Hanley were all seen in colourful attires, enjoying themselves along with the citizens and residents. [caption id="attachment_65171" align="aligncenter" width="2000"] PM Terrance Drew with Minister Samal Duggins (PC - Facebook)[/caption]

Notably, Minister Samal Duggins and Minister Jahnel Nisbett dressed up as Moko Jumbies to join the revellers.

While lauding the huge turnover of the citizens in every single event, Minister Duggins said, "The laughter, the vibrant colours and feathers, the joy – it was an absolute feast for the senses. It was incredible witnessing everyone having a fantastic time, completely in their element."

He added that from the revellers to folklore to the local bands, vendors and on-lookers, the Carnival was truly an experience like no other.

While hailing it a huge success and looking forward to next year's Carnival, Samal Duggins said, "However, to feel the true essence, you have to be part of it. Here's to Sugarmas 52, and let's build towards Sugarmas 53!"

The events featured several local bands performing and making everyone dance to their beats. The Carnival also featured local culture including the fetes, calypso, soca monarch, pageants, parade, and more.

Minister Duggins has also expressed that Sugar Mas 52 was one for the books and looks forward to more exciting events throughout this year.