The flags of each Commonwealth nation were hoisted on the 32-metre mast yesterday morning, with the South African flag raised by a group of South African and other Commonwealth nationals, followed by a South African-inspired breakfast.
‘Commonwealth Day continues to be an important day on Guernsey,’ said Guernsey Royal Commonwealth Society president Darren Vogel.
‘Guernsey is one of 56 countries in the Commonwealth, and this day can bring together communities and share experiences across all those nations.’
A further celebration of South Africa is set to take place on Saturday from 7pm until 10.30pm, where the Lt-Governor will join members of the Royal Commonwealth Society and ticket-holding members of the public to enjoy a South African menu at the recently reopened Duke Hotel.
‘The South African community has brought culinary delights as well as economic growth to the island. We’ve had a lot of South Africans coming into Guernsey’s hospitality sector, and also being very involved in the banking and finance industry,’ said Mr Vogel.
‘It’s amazing how totally integrated they’ve become in the island community.’
It is estimated that the South African community in Guernsey numbers 6,000, and the island hosts more than two dozen South African businesses.
This year’s Commonwealth Day celebrations are designed to mark their contribution to the wider island community.
