The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially launched the Afri-Caribbean Exchange, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at deepening cultural, diplomatic, and economic ties with the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Under the powerful theme “Two Nations. One Rhythm: Bridging Cultures, Building Futures,” the inaugural event opened with an energised cultural ceremony and expo at the Carambola Sunset Deck in Frigate Bay on Friday, 13th June, 2025.
The landmark gathering brought together government officials, creatives, entrepreneurs, and investors from both nations, united by a shared vision of transatlantic collaboration. Steelpan rhythms by EBJ Harmonics, a masquerade performance by Valon’s troupe, and soul-stirring renditions of both national anthems by Makaila Tucker and Chioma Omeruah set the tone for an evening celebrating unity through diversity. Interfaith prayers delivered by Marcia Jeffers and Dr. Umar Musa reinforced this message.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Small Business, Entrepreneurship, Cooperatives and the Creative Economy, Delrine Taylor, welcomed the audience and outlined the Exchange’s objectives, highlighting a series of bilateral initiatives to be rolled out over the coming days. Cultural performances by the SKN Bull Troupe, the St. Peters Actors, the Spirit Drummers, and Nigeria’s Blackbones Cultural Troupe brought vibrancy and authenticity to the occasion.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of the Creative Economy, Samal Duggins, declared, “The Atlantic is no longer a divider—it is a pathway of reconnection. We are building a transatlantic bridge—economic, cultural, and spiritual.” His words encapsulated the intent of the Afri-Caribbean Exchange as a platform for sustained partnerships.
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture was represented by Technical Advisor, Olajide McKelvin Agunloye, who underscored the importance of enhancing value chains between the regions.
Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew, also addressed the gathering, applauding the bold vision of the Exchange and expressing gratitude to Aisha Maina and her team from Aquarian Consult for their pivotal role in bringing the event to life.
Ms. Maina, Managing Director of Aquarian Consult, affirmed the collaborative spirit of the Exchange, stating, “In unity there is strength, but in collaboration there is power.” Her sentiment reflected the long-term goal of creating dynamic, mutually beneficial alliances between Africa and the Caribbean.
The day’s events also featured two high-impact panel discussions. The first, “Empowering Afro-Caribbean Trade: MSME Investment and Value Chain Opportunities,” brought together thought leaders including Anastasia Elliott, Stanley Jacobs, Enene Ejembi, and Abdullahi Shiru to explore avenues for sustainable business growth and investment.
The second panel, “Opportunities for Artistic & Music Collaborations,” featured top creatives from both regions, such as Desi Brown, Rucas H.E, DJ Tero, Chioma Omeruah, Di’Ja, and Lovelyn Tijesunimi-Israel. The conversations examined collaborative prospects in music, culture, and digital content creation.
As the inaugural Afri-Caribbean Exchange continues, participants remain focused on translating shared ideas into action—fuelled by the enduring bonds of culture, commerce, and cooperation.
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