Kiribati marked 41 years of independence from Great Britain on 13 July 2020.
For thousands of I-Kiribati (Gilbertese), celebrating Independence Day comes with certain ceremonies and traditions. Combined church service, cultural celebration, sports competition, family reunions and a marching parade are some of the most popular ways the Kiribati people mark the nation’s independence.
This year, cultural celebration included a competition on different Kiribati local dances, canoe, and a local wrestling. Other sports included, basketball, volleyball, and football (soccer). The Miss Kiribati Pageant is also another highlight of national day celebration.
The 2020 independence celebration concluded with an official marching parade in the Betio Sport complex by schools, private businesses, communities and the police.
The popular ANZ MIC competition and ATHKL(Vodafone) singing competition however did not take place this year due to covid-19 pandemic precautionary measures by these respective organizations
