标签： Suriname

In a grand ceremony held at the Presidential Palace gardens, Suriname celebrated its 50th anniversary of independence by decorating 190 citizens for their unwavering dedication and selfless contributions to the nation’s development. The event, marked by pride and gratitude, highlighted the diverse fields in which these individuals have excelled, including governance, healthcare, culture, education, community building, youth development, sports, and journalism. The highest honor of the day, the Grand Officer in the Order of the Palm, was bestowed upon Frits Pengel, the founder and pioneer of STVS, Suriname’s national television network. President Jennifer Simons, addressing the gathering, emphasized the common thread among the honorees: their love and commitment to their communities. She remarked, ‘Progress is not achieved by words alone but through courage, dedication, action, and hard work. Suriname sees you, appreciates you, and thanks you.’ Among the distinguished recipients was artist Kenny B, who was named Commander in the Order of the Yellow Star. The awards were distributed across various categories, including Silver and Gold Medals, Knights, Officers, and Commanders in both the Order of the Palm and the Order of the Yellow Star. Pengel stood out as the sole recipient of the Grand Officer distinction this year, underscoring his exceptional impact on Surinamese society.

During the Bigi Sma Dey celebration on Saturday, President Jennifer Simons delivered a powerful message urging both young and old to continue supporting one another in the ongoing development of Suriname. The event, organized by the Presidential Srefidensi Commission to mark the country’s 50th anniversary of independence, took place at Waka Pasi and brought together over 500 senior citizens for a day filled with music, snacks, and camaraderie. The attendees, hailing from various care homes in Paramaribo and Wanica, as well as neighborhoods in need of additional support, were honored for their lifelong contributions to the nation’s progress. President Simons highlighted the historical significance of the Waka Pasi/Palmentuin area, where generations of Surinamese have left their mark. ‘We stand today in a Paramaribo built by our ancestors. Each generation adds its stone to the foundation,’ she stated. Addressing the elders, she emphasized that their efforts have paved the way for current generations to build a brighter future, according to the Suriname Communication Service. Simons also expressed her gratitude to the many young volunteers who ensured the seniors enjoyed a relaxing day. She stressed the importance of intergenerational collaboration, noting, ‘The elderly possess experience and wisdom. They still have much to teach us. That’s why young and old must continue to support each other for the betterment of Suriname.’ The president concluded on an optimistic note, wishing everyone a pleasant day and affirming, ‘Sranan sa wini’ (Suriname will prevail).

As Suriname marks its 50th anniversary of independence in 2025, the nation reflects on its rich cultural heritage, symbolized by its flag and the unifying power of football. The Surinamese flag, with its five horizontal stripes and a central yellow star, represents progress, freedom, justice, fertility, and unity among diverse ethnic groups. The star, with its five points, signifies the major population groups and a golden future. This symbolism extends beyond the flag, permeating Surinamese society and its diaspora. Football has played a pivotal role in fostering unity and pride. Historical matches, such as the 1976 friendly between Ajax and Robinhood, highlight the sport’s ability to bring people together. The diaspora, particularly in the Netherlands, has remained deeply connected to Suriname, with notable figures like Errol Emanuelson and Kenneth Kluivert contributing to this bond. The ‘Natio’ bus, painted in the colors of the Surinamese flag, symbolizes this enduring connection, traveling through Suriname and beyond, carrying the spirit of unity and resilience. As Suriname looks to the future, the diaspora continues to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s identity, ensuring that the legacy of independence and unity endures for generations to come.

The second phase of the renovated Waterkant in Paramaribo was officially unveiled on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the large-scale revitalization of Suriname’s historic capital. President Jennifer Simons announced that the city center is set to become a Caribbean tourism hotspot within the next five to ten years. The Waterkant project is seen as the cornerstone of a broader transformation aimed at preserving and enhancing the city’s cultural heritage.

During the inauguration, President Simons emphasized the importance of creating a space that both locals and tourists would cherish. ‘What we are building here must endure for future generations. This is a step toward a future where Paramaribo stands as a magnificent city,’ she stated. The president also revealed plans for a specialized management institute to oversee the continued development of the historic district, offering support to owners of heritage buildings struggling with maintenance.

Collaboration with the private sector and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) was highlighted as crucial to elevating the city’s appeal. ‘We call on urban planners to contribute, as this is particularly vital for tourism,’ Simons added. Vice President Gregory Rusland described the Waterkant as ‘one of Suriname’s most significant heritage sites,’ emphasizing that the project goes beyond construction to safeguard national identity and boost tourism.

Minister Dirk Currie praised the initiative as a symbol of unity and connection, while Natasja Deul, program manager of the Paramaribo Urban Rehabilitation Project (PURP), expressed satisfaction with the results. ‘The outcome exceeded expectations. Despite challenges, we’ve gained valuable insights for PURP 2,’ she said.

Ravindra Patandin, director of Ilaco Suriname N.V., the supervising company, described the project as a ‘mega job,’ noting that it was entirely designed and executed by Surinamese professionals using sustainable materials. ‘This is lasting heritage,’ he remarked, urging government ministries to ensure long-term maintenance.

Minister Raymond Landveld of Transport, Communication, and Tourism announced funding for a public awareness campaign to keep the Waterkant clean and intact. Additionally, efforts are underway to expand the management board to include departments like Public Green Spaces and Waste Management, as well as the Ministry of Justice and Police, to ensure round-the-clock security.

The Waterkant renovation is part of the IDB-funded Paramaribo Urban Rehabilitation Project, which also includes the restoration of historic buildings. IDB representative Adriana La Valley called on the community to take pride in the achievements. ‘Paramaribo is a special place that reflects Suriname’s historical and cultural heritage. This heritage is a source of strength that can drive sustainable development and improve living standards,’ she said.