VIDEO: Rihanna made national hero of Barbados
The artist and businesswoman, also known by her full name Robyn Rihanna Fenty, was previously named ambassador to Barbados in 2018
Popstar Rihanna was honoured by Prime Minister Mia Mottley at an event marking Barbados new status as a republic.
The artist and businesswoman, also known by her full name Robyn Rihanna Fenty, was previously named ambassador to Barbados in 2018.
“May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honour to your nation,” Ms Mottley said, in reference to one of Rihanna’s songs.
Barbados is a small island country in the south-eastern Caribbean Sea. Its neighbours include Saint Lucia, to the north, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to the west, and Trinidad and Tobago to the south.
It is a fairly flat island, but with Mount Hillaby rising via terraced tablelands to 336 metres. Barbados is surrounded by coral reefs.
New Republic
Barbados has officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and become the world’s newest republic.
In an overnight ceremony in the capital, Bridgetown, Dame Sandra Mason was sworn in as president.
The Prince of Wales and Barbadian singer Rihanna attended the event, which coincided with the country’s 55th anniversary of independence.
In a speech, Prince Charles acknowledged the “appalling atrocity of slavery” the Caribbean island suffered.
The new era for Barbados ends Britain’s centuries of influence, including more than 200 years when the island was a hub for the transatlantic slave trade.
To signify the official change of power, a final salute was made to the British monarchy and the Royal Standard flag was lowered and replaced.
Speaking as the guest of honour at the event, Prince Charles reiterated the continuing ties between the two nations despite the constitutional status change.
He described the moment as a new beginning before being awarded the prestigious Order of Freedom of Barbados by the new president.
The Queen sent the country her “warmest good wishes” for “happiness, peace and prosperity in the future” and said the nation holds a “special place” in her heart.
Dame Sandra Mason, 72, the island’s governor-general since 2018, was named as president-elect of the nation following a vote in parliament last month. She now replaces the Queen as the head of state.
“Vessel Republic Barbados has set sail on her maiden voyage. May she weather all storms and land our country and citizens safely on the horizons and shores which are ahead of us,” she said after being sworn in.
Barbados announced its plan to become a republic last year, but it will remain within the Commonwealth.
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