United Nations Gathering of Culture in Seychelles remains an example for the World
aTP- Arab tourism portal-The Seychelles’ capital, Victoria, was dressed in all colours of the world on Saturday, as thousands lined the streets of Victoria from Bois de Rose Avenue to Palm Street, all the way to Manglier Street, cheering as the colourful floats of this sixth Carnaval International de Victoria snaked down.
Led by the Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St.Ange, principal secretaries of the two departments Benjamine Rose and Anne Lafortune, and the Seychelles Tourism Board team headed by the chief executive Sherin Naiken, the parade started at 3pm on Bois de Rose Avenue, and went down 5th June Avenue.
The floats that followed them had to perform in front of the Liberty Monument, for the many VIPs, the panel of judges and members of the people who had gathered all along the avenue.
A total of 37 floats paraded down performing to the accompaniment of music, displaying a cocktail of cultures, music and dances from across the globe.
Local and international floats parading together in one carnival truly showcased the melting pot of cultures and unity themes of the Carnaval International de Victoria. "Showcasing one’s culture is putting the people of our respective countries in the forefront.
Today the world needs to understand each other as to know each other if we are to see a more understanding world. Seychelles has become the meeting spot for the world through culture" said Minister Alain St.Ange of the Seychelles as he answered questions from the large number of International Press Gathered.
Among those who came down to enjoy the carnival parade were the former President of the Republic Sir James Mancham, Vice-President Danny Faure, Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, other ministers and high government officials as well as international dignitaries hailing from co-hosts countries.
South Africa’s Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom, Madagascar Tourism Minister Roland Ratsiraka and the Conseillere Regionale of Reunion Island Faouzia Vitry among many other Tourism Leaders from the Community of Nations.
Once again this year, we saw the giant tortoise Per Kobe in the parade, which was the float of the Seychelles Car Hire Association.
Leaving the VIP area, the floats went down the avenue and their next stop was in front of Peace Park where they also performed. Their last stop to perform was on Palm Street, in front of the Sacos Tower.
Italy must have been the float which haughty the children’s attention the most as apart from the showcasing the Alice in wonderland theme, there were some famous characters such as Olaf the snowman from the 2013 animated film Frozen, Minie Mouse, Mickey Mouse and several others.
As customary, Notting Hill Roadshow Carnival, being the biggest float, was the last to perform in this year’s Carnaval International de Victoria.
The best floats will be rewarded tomorrow at the closing ceremony which will be held at the Freedom Square, just after Kiddies Carnival.
