BASSETERRE: St. Kitts and Nevis artists now have a permanent creative home in Africa following last week’s historic launch of the Afri-Caribbean Cultural Event Center in Abuja, Nigeria.
The landmark occasion saw the nation’s anthem performed by Dejour Alexander at The Art Pavilion, marking what Minister of Agriculture and Creative Economy Samal Duggins called a powerful cultural moment thousands of miles from home.
“St. Kitts and Nevis artistes now have a permanent home in Africa—and Africa has a home in us,” Minister Duggins declared in a Facebook post reflecting on the ceremony.
The center was established through partnership with Ms. Aisha Maina, CEO of Aquarian Consult Limited and founder of the Miss Maina Anoora Foundation. Deputy Prime Minister and Speaker of the National Assembly Pierre Liburd, along with renowned visual artist and Director of Culture, joined Duggins for the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
The facility showcases Caribbean cultural elements including steel pan, mocko jumbies, and other artistic expressions that reflect the region’s heritage and creativity.
Minister Duggins emphasized the center represents more than physical space. “This Art Centre is more than a building. It is a promise,” he stated, explaining it guarantees SKN artists will have ongoing opportunities to showcase work, create, learn, and develop their craft internationally.
The initiative strengthens cultural and diplomatic ties between the Caribbean and Africa, providing a platform for artistic exchange and collaboration across continents.
The minister concluded his message with the rallying call: “One Africa. One People. One Creative Future.”