Afro-Ecuadoreans Celebrate Independence with Colorful Parade

Music, dance, culture and tradition are in the atmosphere in Esmeraldas as the coastal Ecuadorean city celebrates 195 years of independence. The party kicked off Wednesday with a colorful parade, attended by President Rafael Correa.

Esmeraldas is the capital of the eponymous province with a unique history and racial makeup; it is home to 70 percent of Ecuador’s African descendants. The area attracts thousands of tourists every year, as it is the major seaport in the northwest of the country.

Marimba music also originates in Esmeraldas, with rhythms similar to xylophones music in west and central Africa. The music will be present over the weekend, with dance groups from local schools showing the traditional costumes of the region.

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Esmeraldas province, long ignored by national government, has been given more support under the government of president Correa, through the social welfare and infrastructure programs under Correa’s Citizens’ Revolution.

As part of the celebrations, residents will enjoy the renovated port, which will benefit thousands of families who depend on tourism and fishing revenues. The president announced that the new Esmeraldas oil refinery will start working next November, with a projected output of 110,000 barrels per day.