KINGSTON, Jamaica — The 44th staging of the Bob Marley One Love Football Festival is set to take place on Ash Wednesday, February 18, at the Harbour View Mini-Stadium, and this year’s honourees are Tony Rebel, Sizzla, Chris Martin, Romain Virgo and Mikey Bennett.

Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell, conceptualiser of the event since 1982, a year after Bob Marley’s death, said victims and schools impacted by Hurricane Melissa will be the beneficiaries.

Admission to the event is “just a donation”, said Campbell, noting that any donation over $500 will get a ticket and a chance to win various prizes on the day from sponsors.

Campbell explained that this year’s theme is about “Love and Peace” and made reference to the 1969 hit song by Johnny Nash, who did a couple of cover songs of Bob Marley.

“It is only fitting that this event will be held on Ash Wednesday, a day that calls for reflection, humility and renewal. A day that asks us to look forward then outward to how we treat each other,” said Campbell.

“The question comes from the scripture, but its echo reaches far beyond the Bible. Bob Marley answered that question with his life,” he continued.

“Bob sang of freedom, unity and love, not as distant ideals but daily responsibilities. Bob believed we are bound together, that none of us rides alone and that healing a nation begins with caring for each other,” Campbell added.

Four teams, entertainers, referees, masters and celebrities and Christian ambassadors will vie for the coveted Cecelia Marley-designed One Love Trophy.

A host of entertainers and former national players will be in action, with the setting ready for a family fun day.

Those booked to participate are Jahshi, Laa Lee, Chris Martin, Nesbeth, Jesse Royal, Ras I, and Valiant. However, Campbell has thrown out the invitation to all entertainers to turn up with boots ready to play.