Rihanna declared a ‘national hero’ as Barbados becomes a republic

Barbados has officially become a republic, lowering the royal flag ending nearly 400 years of British rule over the island nation.

They swore in their first president, Sandra Mason, initially a governor who had been appointed by the queen.

In attendance were various dignitaries and celebrities amongst them Prince Charles who came to witness the ceremony on behalf of Britain and musician Rihanna.

Rihanna who is a Barbadian national and also an ambassador for Barbados since 2018 was declared a national hero by the prime minister Mia Mottley during the ceremony.

"On behalf of a grateful nation, but an even prouder people, we therefore present to you the designee for national hero for Barbados, ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty," the PM said in her speech during the ceremony.

“May you continue to shine like a diamond,” Ms. Mottley added.

Earlier in 2008, former prime Minister David Thompson had declared 22 February “Rihanna Day” and even though it’s not considered a public holiday, Barbadians still celebrate it anyway.