Bahamas’ Junkanoo inscribed by UNESCO

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer 

#TheBahamas, December 21, 2023 – Now one of just four Caribbean countries to achieve this, Junkanoo, a fixture in Bahamian culture has been inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity, after the country submitted a nomination.

The archipelago Joins a total of 145 countries on the list, as announced by the Ministry of Education, Technical and Vocational Training.

This is a huge development for The Bahamas solidifying Junkanoo as the country’s premiere festival, as well as providing an opportunity for international exposure of the festival. The ministry also says it will bring possible funding.

Expressing that being listed is a proud moment for The Bahamas, was Glenys Hanna Martin, Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, who was accompanied by the Culture minister, Mario Bowleg.

“This was one of the proudest moments of my life! There is that core that represents who and what we are,” she maintained, speaking at a recent media conference.

Additionally, Martin emphasized the importance of upholding the organic culture of Junkanoo, that it does not become commercialized and for this, she urged them to “be careful.”

The inscription took place on December 5th, 2023 during the 18th session for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Heritage in Botswana.