The annual Commonwealth Fair, a highly anticipated event with its sea of vibrant colours and bargains from all over the globe, was opened by the Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea, Councillor Will Lane, on Saturday. However, this year, the absence of the Barbados Contingent was keenly felt, causing disappointment among many Barbadians and their friends who had travelled from all over the UK.
The event, with a footfall of over 2k persons, offers a unique cultural experience. In front of the main stage, the ground floor displays products from Commonwealth member countries exclusively and hosts a lively line-up of performers. The upper floors lead to the famous Food Hall, where tables creaked under the weight of local delicacies, giving Londoners an authentic taste of the Commonwealth. However, this year, the absence of the Barbados catering team left many disappointed, as many would have come and lime expecting their local Saturday delicacies of Pudding N Souse, Cou Cou and sweetbreads followed by a mauby or a Banks beer. No such luck!
One attendee, Sandra Lake, expressed her disappointment: “I travelled so far to get my rum punch and products, and I didn’t have food either.”
Sylvester Burke: ” Where is the Bajan stall, and why was no one telling us that they would not be here? This is not good.”
Pauline Quintyne: “No proper Bajan stall with foodstuffs and rum. We were looking forward to buying Banks beer.
This was the topic of conversation as Bajans met words reflecting the emotional impact of the Barbados Contingent’s absence on the attendees.
We contacted the Barbados High Commission and have yet to receive a response.
The Commonwealth Countries League (CCL), a charity dedicated to advancing girls’ education, organises the event, which marks 99 years since its foundation.
We contacted the CCL spokesperson and learned that the organisation faced significant challenges this year. This led to delays in organising it. Negotiations with the Barbados team, who were meant to co-host it, were also delayed. After discussions had started, the Barbados team made an offer that was considered unacceptable by CCL and would have limited CCL’s involvement in the event.
The CCL Executive and Trustees then decided to hold the event with the UK as this year’s host.
