Carnival Calabar Unveils 20th Anniversary Mascot, Diasporan Band
Carnival Calabar has unveiled the official mascot and introduced a new Diasporan Band for the 20th anniversary ahead of the much- awaited December Africa’s Biggest Street Party.
At the unveiling ceremony on Sunday at the second dry run ceremony the state’s Deputy Governor, Dr.Peter Odey, described the moment as “another iconic chapter” in the state’s two-decade journey of building a world-class cultural and tourism brand.
Odey, alongside the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, and members of all the competing bands defied the heavy down pour, unveiled the landmark mascot, which is described as “a design symbolizing the pride and identity of the Cross River people.”
Representing the state governor Bassey Otu who was away for an official engagement, stated that “Africa biggest street party " Carnival Calabar has become part of our identity, part of our history, and will stay with us for the rest of our lives.”
He stated that the celebration, which is guided by this year’s carnival theme, “Traces of Time,” will explores the historical and cultural journey of the Cross River people.
This theme was strengthened in October when the state welcomed 92 members of the global African diaspora for a reconciliation homecoming.
In his remarks, Gabriel Onah, who is chairman, Carnival Commission, stated the band’s significance, stressing “We are unveiling the Carnival Calabar Diasporan Band with their unique theme that ties directly to ‘Traces of Time.’ They are speaking to the pains of history and the desire to reconcile.”
Onah used the occasion to call on people of African descent worldwide to join the Diasporan Band, saying, “I call on all diasporans around the world — including myself — to join the Diasporan Band and help chart a new direction for Carnival Calabar.”
The second dry run featured Ms. Valerie, a cultural representative from Trinidad and Tobago, whose presence symbolized the strengthening of cultural ties between Caribbean and African carnival traditions.
