Jamaica’s Minister of Culture and Entertainment, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, traveled to Mexico under a cultural cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the cities of Kingston and Chetumal. The MOU is designed to facilitate development in the cultural and creative sectors of both nations The signing was accompanied by a number of activities, including the unveiling of a statue of reggae legend Bob Marley in Chetumal. According to Grange, the MOU is significant because the Mexican city is the “gateway” by which reggae enters Mexico. The unveiling of the statue was a featured event at the 2nd Mexico Reggae Festival organized by the State of Quintana Roo, which is where Chetumal is located. Grange noted that the Reggae Festival clearly represents the way the people of Mexico have “embraced” the culture of Jamaica. It also provides an opportunity for Jamaican musicians to “extend their reach” around the world.

Photo Source: JIS