The Ministry of Culture and Community Development led by the Honourable Michelle Benjamin, MP, is aware of and understands the situation concerning one of our nation’s most treasured cultural icons, Ms. Ella Andall, noting that she is in the care of her son.
Minister Benjamin confirms to members of the public, “I have been in active discussions with the relevant authorities to ensure that the fullest measure of support is extended to Ms. Andall and her loved ones at this time. Therefore, I ask the national community to afford them the privacy and dignity they deserve.”
With wholehearted commitment Minister Benjamin continues, “Let me be clear, under my stewardship, no cultural icon of Trinidad and Tobago will be left behind. Ella Andall’s voice; from ‘Bring Down the Power’ to her sacred Orisha recordings, is part of the very fabric of who we are as a people. Indeed, only as recent as Thursday last, Ms. Andall was honoured at the inaugural Miss Afro T&T Pageant, hosted under my Ministry in honour of Emancipation; a fitting tribute to a woman whose life’s work has been the celebration of our African heritage. A nation that has been enriched by such a gift carries a duty of care to the giver.”
Noteworthy, today, on African Emancipation Day 2026, another national icon was honoured – Timothy Watkins Jr. “Baron” at the Lidj Yasu Omowale Emancipation Village; celebrating a living legend in the presence of his people. Minister Benjamin reiterates, “But celebration alone is not enough. These moments remind us that our responsibility to our cultural icons must go beyond the stage and the spotlight, into the seasons of their lives when they need us most.”
In light of this Minister Benjamin reaffirms to Trinidad and Tobago, “The Ministry of Culture and Community Development is actively working towards greater protections for our cultural practitioners; a framework of care, welfare and social support that honours their contribution not only in tribute but in tangible provision. This is the standard to which I hold myself and this Ministry – that those who have given their lives to define our culture will always find their nation standing with them.”
“To you Ms. Andall, the nation you have sung for now sings for you.” Minister Benjamin states in expressing her appreciation to a local living legend.