CATEGORY:CELEBRATION
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By Trevor Thwaites (Inside Grenada correspondent)



GRENADA - The United Caribbean Friendly Association (UCFA) is hoping to play an integral part in the social and economic development of the country. The Association is comprised of nationals, who are now back home after spending three, four and in some instances five decades in the United Kingdom. Over 200 members comprise the Association that was founded by Mr Wilfred Regis in London in the 1990’s.

Over 100 members attended the 6th anniversary of the Association recently at a social “get-to-gether”, at the BBC Beach in the South of the country. The Association over the years has been involved in the enhancement of their communities, rendering support in education, health and social development. Several youngsters have been assisted to attend schools with the provision of books and other materials. The Association has also provided an ambulance for the people of St Patrick among other endeavours.

“We have done pretty well so far. We want to continue to work with the government and the various communities to empower the people and help in the reduction of poverty. This is what the Association is all about”, said President of UCFA and Attorney At Law Offiriah Augustine. The Association is now embarking on a programme to woo more nationals back home to start their own businesses and generate more employment. “We are trying to get more nationals not only to return, but to start various enterprises”, Founder of the Association Wilfred Regis said.

“Many are warming to the idea. I think we will be seeing this sort of development occurring soon. Many are keen to return and open up their own enterprises”, Regis added. The Association is most grateful to the government for the assistance being afforded them. Returning nationals are granted concessions on vehicles and other household items they are bringing back from England. “We cannot complain. They have treated us well”, Regis said in acknowledgement of the support given by the government.

It was a fun filled and interactive day as members of the association actively participated in a beach picnic. They interacted wonderfully, sharing the various sumptuous dishes and drinks prepared for the occasion. There are plans to enhance the association. At the moment they are groups in St George’s, St Patrick, St David and St Andrew. Efforts are being made to start similar groups in St John and St Mark. The Executive is comprised of Mrs Augustine (President), Roy Defreitas (Vice – President), Jerry Romain (Secretary), EG Jerome (Treasure), and Norman Thwaites (Public Relations Officer).