Antigua Carnival 2024: Over $1.5 million cash prize money disbursed and settled

Regarding the Antigua Carnival 2024, the Festivals Commission has confirmed that the total cash prize money given to the winners is over $1.5 million, a great achievement in cultural tourism development for this island.

Regarding the mentioned funds, questions were raised whether the winners had received their accolades in terms of cash prizes, to which, Parliamentary Secretary in The Ministry of Creative Industries, Senator Shenella Govia did assure that the achievers of Carnival have not gone home empty-handed.

It was further pointed out by Senator Govia that this was done in the clear view of the audience, at Carnival stages immediately after each event. Winners received both an ostensive check along with a real one to show the Commission’s appreciation of participants’ efforts.

There have been relatively small numbers reported for remaining unpaid prize money with the reports showing that most of the money has been paid to the contingents who participated in the various contests offered online.

Some of these unplaced participants are advised to collect their due payments from the Festivals Office. The early payment of these cash prizes indicates the commitment the Commission has for fairness, in paying for Carnival related services.

Besides the cash award, the Festivals Commission has paid substantial amount of money to clear balances in payment with the service providers who participated in Carnival. Speaking of the operations of the Ministry of health, Senator Govia said that payments in the range of 75 percent of the contracted amounts have already been made.

The balance of these payments, which is yet to be reconciled, will be settled with the assistance of the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda. This commitment to account settlements, is in realization of the government’s endorsement to the importance of service providers in the execution of carnival activities.

Senator Govia also thanked all the sponsors for their support to Carnival 2024 noting that they played a very big role. She thanked them for their support which she said is fundamental in the celebration of the event and encouraged them to continue supporting the celebrations.

This indicates a well-coordinated celebration of Carnival since the Festivals Commission is seen to be effective in the management of the prize money as well as the payments to the service providers, besides acknowledging the sponsors.

As of when the preparations for the next Carnival are made, the need for increased sponsorship signifies a pro-active approach towards the objectives of contributing to the richness and sustainability of one of the most valuable festivals in the nation.