The Bob Marley Group of Companies will mark the 78th birthday of Rita Marley with a special celebration dubbed ‘Love Iyah ‘78’.
The list of birthday activities for the ‘First Lady of Reggae’, co-founder of Tuff Gong International and global humanitarian, will culminate with a a star-studded concert, produced by Tuff Gong and recorded at their historic studio in Kingston. The event will be livestreamed on Tuff Gong TV’s YouTube channel on Marley’s birthday, July 25 at 4 p.m.
The artistes on the line-up include Admiral Tibet, Warrior King, Tifa, Sharon Marley, Big Youth, Jaz Elise, and Grub Cooper (formerly of Fab 5), with master of ceremonies, Collin Hines.
“We are honored to celebrate my mother, mentor, and best friend. As a proud black Jamaican entrepreneur, she has broken so many barriers and built a lasting legacy,” said Cedella Marley, the first-born child of Bob and Rita Marley and chief executive officer of the Bob Marley Group of Companies. “Her strength, wisdom, kindness, and love have inspired us all and she continues to be our guiding light.”
With the live stream hosted by the Emprezz, this year’s celebration will shine a spotlight on Marley’s remarkable journey. Highlights will include readings from her book No Woman No Cry: My Life with Bob Marley by broadcaster Dahlia Harris. Additionally, exclusive scenes from the Bob Marley: One Love movie will provide viewers with greater insight into her life.
The ‘Love Iyah ‘78’ celebration will support initiatives such as the Hurricane Beryl Relief efforts, which, in partnership with Food for the Poor, aims to give back to those affected by the devastating impact of the hurricane.
Also, the Rita Marley Foundation will continue to champion education. For 2024, the Rita Marley scholarship is valued at $4 million and aims to support 10 women in completing their tertiary education. Students may apply by visiting ritamarleyfoundation.org. The application deadline is July 31.
This year, the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation joined the mission of the Ministry of Health’s Adopt-A-Clinic initiative. Through a $3 million donation to the Bull Bay Health Centre, the foundation aims to help enhance its operations by providing access to adequate essential medical services.
SOURCE: jamaica-gleaner.com