TODAY marks 49 years since Guyana’s struggle for independence from Great Britain ended successfully with the lowering of the Union Jack, and the hoisting of the Golden Arrow Head. This monumental achievement which was won through many failed attempts lives on as a traditional trademark through which Guyanese foster a sense of nationalism and patriotism.

The first flag raising ceremony was scheduled for the National Park, but similar activities were also held in other parts of the country, with major ceremonies in Essequibo, McKenzie/ Wismar/Christianburg (now Linden) and New Amsterdam. Adrian Thompson and team also raised a flag at Mount Ayanganna.
Immediately preceding the ceremony at the National Park was the Grand State Banquet at Queen’s College.
As the country now celebrates its 49th Independence anniversary, Head of State, David Granger, a former Brigadier, has placed high on his agenda since his assumption to office, the revitalisation of traditional practices.
Shifting the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead from the National Park, the President, following the rehabilitation of the symbolic Independence Arch, has indicated that today’s flag raising ceremony will be held at this location at 8:00hrs to mark the celebration.
Scheduled for later in the day is an inauguration ceremony which is expected to attract thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life, who will assemble at the Providence Stadium to witness what has been described as an “explosive” cultural gala.
With the grand rehearsals held last evening, hundreds of performers lined the inner circle of the country’s national stadium with a grand dress rehearsal.
Among the groups present at last evening’s rehearsals were several schools, the Joint Services, the Guyana National School of Dance, several choirs; dance groups and a number of local artistes.
Then there will be the highlight of the evening, the traditional fireworks display.