Prime Minister Dr. Friday Calls for Unity and Community Spirit at Nine Mornings Launch 

By Val Matthias. Updated 10:13 a.m., Monday, December 15, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday delivered his first official address at the launch of this year’s Nine Mornings Festival, urging Vincentians to embrace the spirit of unity, volunteerism, and cultural pride during the Christmas season. 

Speaking to a large crowd gathered for the opening ceremony, Dr. Friday described Nine Mornings as “part of who we are that defines us,” recalling his own youthful memories of attending early morning sets with schoolmates. He emphasized that the festival is not only a cultural treasure but also an economic activity that supports vendors, artisans, and performers, making it “a vibrant part of our tourism economy as well.” 

The Prime Minister highlighted the role of community spirit and volunteerism in sustaining the tradition: “Not everything that you do, you do for money. Sometimes you do it because you love to do it and because it is important for building that spirit of community.”

Dr. Friday acknowledged the challenges of the recent election campaign, which he said had divided the nation, but stressed that the Nine Mornings season offers an opportunity to heal and reconnect. “There is nothing that brings us together better than the Christmas spirit,” he said, urging citizens to “reach for those things that hold us together as a community.”

He encouraged Vincentians to extend kindness during the season: “Reach out to your neighbours and your friends, share, look out for those people who may not have so much to enjoy. That is what the Spirit of Christmas is truly about.” 

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of youth participation, calling on young people to carry the tradition forward. He noted that Nine Mornings celebrations are happening across the country, with communities hosting light-ups and cultural shows that reflect the vibrancy of Vincentian life. 

As the festivities begin, Dr. Friday reminded the audience of the deeper meaning of the season: “Remember, this is about celebrating Christ, and that is what brings us here together.”

Dr. Friday closed his remarks with a reminder of the upcoming VAT-Free Shopping Day on December 19, encouraging citizens to “wake up early and be the first person in the store.” 

Prime Minister Dr. Friday’s debut Nine Mornings speech centered on unity, volunteerism, and cultural pride, making the festival as both a spiritual celebration and an economic driver. His call to embrace kindness and community spirit set the tone for a season that continues to define Vincentian identity. 

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