The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a homicide investigation following a fatal shooting incident on Upper Fort Road. Louis Armstrong, a 43-year-old local resident, tragically passed away on Saturday morning at approximately 7:24 a.m. while receiving medical care at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The incident occurred early Friday morning near Toy Toy Restaurant, where Armstrong was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his chest, eye, and left hand. Police officers swiftly responded to the scene after receiving reports of the shooting. Authorities are now actively investigating the case as a murder and are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrator(s). Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or use the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).
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UK-Caribbean mission unites health leaders to boost innovation and regulation
Senior health officials from Barbados and other Caribbean nations recently participated in the inaugural UK-Caribbean Life Sciences and Regulatory Trade Mission in London, hosted by the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT). This four-day event aimed to bolster the modernization of healthcare systems across the Caribbean, focusing on improving access to safe medicines and enhancing regulatory frameworks. The mission provided a platform for Caribbean regulators to engage with leading UK institutions, including the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), King’s College London, and the Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS). Key discussions centered on streamlining drug registration, adopting international standards, improving regulatory efficiency, and integrating digital technologies into health systems. UK High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Simon Mustard, emphasized the broader impact of this collaboration, stating that it strengthens health systems, drives economic growth, and fosters long-term partnerships. D’Jamila Ward, Regional Trade Director for the Commonwealth Caribbean at DBT, highlighted the mission’s significance in addressing regulatory challenges and improving access to essential medicines. Barbados was represented by Lindsay Bynoe, assistant director and pharmacist at the Barbados Drug Service, and Maryam Karga-Hinds, interim director general of the Barbados Medical Products Authority, who underscored the country’s commitment to advancing pharmaceutical regulation and regional collaboration. Karga-Hinds reflected on the mission, noting that it has deepened partnerships and strengthened knowledge to ensure equitable access to safe, effective medical products for all Caribbean citizens. This initiative highlights the UK’s commitment to partnering with Caribbean nations to strengthen health systems, foster innovation, and improve patient outcomes, paving the way for future collaborations on regulatory reform, investment opportunities, and digital health integration.
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Cabinet Meets 14 Contractors in First-of-Its-Kind Session; New Support Unit and Sector Reforms Announced
In a groundbreaking session, the Antigua and Barbuda government convened a high-level meeting with 14 local contractors, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s construction sector. The meeting, held on Wednesday, was attended by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Works Minister Maria Bird Browne, and senior ministry officials. The dialogue focused on addressing long-standing industry challenges and introducing transformative reforms to enhance the sector’s competitiveness and modernization. Contractors lauded the government’s direct engagement, describing it as a critical step toward fostering a robust local industry. They also commended the Works Ministry for its improved communication, organizational efficiency, and consistent payment practices under Minister Browne’s leadership. Prime Minister Browne acknowledged decades of persistent issues, including cash-flow constraints, cost overruns, project delays, and weak management practices. He emphasized the need for modernization to empower local contractors to operate at international standards while meeting national timelines and budget requirements. As part of the reforms, the Ministry of Works will establish a Contractor Support Unit to assist firms with bid preparation, costing, administrative systems, technical support, and training aligned with global benchmarks. The unit will also prepare local companies for major tenders, including projects funded by the Caribbean Development Bank in Barbuda. The ministry will launch its first bid-preparation workshop on Monday at the John E. St. Luce Centre. Additionally, the government reaffirmed its commitment to timely payments and promoted joint contracting arrangements between local firms and established regional or international companies to facilitate knowledge transfer, management capacity, and access to working capital. This meeting is the first in a series, with further sessions planned with contractors, farmers, and supermarket operators. Both the government and contractors agreed that the session marked a significant stride toward building a more competitive, modern, and resilient construction sector in Antigua and Barbuda.
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Hunger and war: The oldest crime the world still permits
A recent UN report has unveiled a grim reality: the world’s most powerful nations have grown indifferent to human suffering, prioritizing military expenditures over addressing global hunger. The World Food Programme estimates that ending hunger by 2030 would require just $93 billion annually—less than 1% of the $21.9 trillion spent on militaries over the past decade. Yet, hunger continues to escalate, with 318 million people projected to face crisis-level hunger by 2026, double the figure from 2019. While wealthy nations enjoy food security, regions like Gaza, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Haiti bear the brunt of conflict-driven famine. In Gaza, despite ceasefire talks, children starve amidst Israeli blockades and bombardment. Sudan and Congo face catastrophic food shortages due to violence and displacement, while Haiti’s hunger crisis is exacerbated by gang dominance and political instability. Latin America and the Caribbean offer a glimmer of hope, with hunger declining for the second consecutive year in 2023, thanks to economic recovery and social programs. However, climate change poses a growing threat, with extreme weather events exacerbating food insecurity. The war in Ukraine has underscored the interconnectedness of global food systems, as stalled grain exports triggered price spikes and social unrest worldwide. UN agencies like the World Food Programme and the UN Human Rights Office work tirelessly to address these crises, but chronic underfunding and political inaction hinder their efforts. The UN Security Council’s failure to treat hunger as a geopolitical threat highlights the lack of political will to allocate resources effectively. Ending hunger is not just a moral imperative but a prerequisite for global peace and security. As UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed warned, “there can be neither peace where people are starving, nor security where hunger drives conflict.” This stark reminder demands urgent action from the international community.
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US FAA cautions against flying in Venezuelan airspace
The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a critical security advisory, known as a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), urging civil aircraft operators to exercise extreme caution when navigating Venezuelan airspace. This warning, released on Friday, 21 November 2025, highlights heightened risks stemming from increased Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference and ongoing military exercises in the region, which commenced in September. Despite the advisory, several airlines continued their operations to and from Venezuela as of Saturday. U.S. operators are now mandated to provide the FAA with a 72-hour prior notice before entering Venezuelan airspace. This measure supplements an existing 2019 order that already prohibits U.S. airlines from conducting flights to or from Venezuela. The NOTAM specifically addresses the MAIQUETIA (SVZM) Flight Information Region (FIR), which encompasses Venezuelan territory and extends approximately 350 miles into the Caribbean Sea. It is important to note that FIRs are administrative divisions for air traffic control and do not align with national boundaries.
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Schoolkoren kleuren CCS tijdens Srefidensi-viering
The Cultural Center of Suriname (CCS) was abuzz with youthful energy on Friday as it hosted the National School Choir Festival 2025. Organized by the Directorate of Culture under the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture (MinOWC), the event featured performances from eight primary schools and was part of the Srefidensi celebrations. President Jennifer Simons inaugurated the festival, emphasizing the transformative power of music in child development. She highlighted how music fosters creativity, cognitive growth, and academic success, urging schools to integrate music education into their curricula and encouraging students to nurture their talents. AVO Director Helima Poese also addressed the young performers, thanking parents and teachers for their dedication. She underscored the holistic benefits of singing, dancing, and sports, noting their role in promoting health and resilience. Charmain Belfor, Director of the Suriname Conservatory, described the festival as a cornerstone of initiatives aimed at inspiring youth to pursue music education. The event, targeting children aged 8 to 12, also provided practical opportunities for music students to gain experience. The festival marks the beginning of a celebratory period leading up to the Suriname Conservatory’s 15th anniversary in November 2026, with preparations now officially underway.
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Sagicor drive marks one year of safer roads and smarter driving across the Caribbean
Sagicor General Insurance Inc. (SGI) is commemorating the first anniversary of its groundbreaking telematics mobile application, Sagicor Drive. This innovative app, designed to foster safer driving practices and reward conscientious drivers, has been making waves across the Caribbean region. To celebrate this significant milestone, SGI organized a series of pop-up events in various markets, engaging with users and highlighting the app’s numerous benefits. These events have further amplified the app’s growing popularity and garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback. Currently operational in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua, and Saint Lucia, Sagicor Drive has already amassed over 500 users. The app employs advanced telematics technology to analyze driving behaviors, offering users valuable insights into their habits while incentivizing safer driving through rewards such as badges, vouchers, and policy renewal discounts. Over the past year, the SGI team has rolled out several updates to enhance the app’s functionality and user experience, making it more efficient and user-friendly. Andre Barrow, Assistant Vice President of Innovation and Business Systems at Sagicor General, shared optimistic insights based on the data collected. ‘The results are very encouraging. While we haven’t yet observed a reduction in accidents attributable to the app, we are hopeful that its continued use will promote better driving habits, ultimately leading to fewer claims for our clients,’ he stated. Sagicor Drive is a cornerstone of SGI’s digital innovation strategy, leveraging cutting-edge technology to elevate client experiences, improve road safety, and support communities through data-driven solutions.
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Visitors can “Dine with a Bajan”
As Barbados prepares for its peak tourist season, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has reintroduced its ‘Dine with a Bajan’ initiative, a community-based tourism program that invites visitors to enjoy authentic Bajan meals in the homes of local hosts. The relaunch event took place on Wednesday evening at the Cricket Legends of Barbados in Fontabelle, St. Michael, where attendees learned about the program’s details and its cultural significance. Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, highlighted the initiative’s role in showcasing Barbados’ culture and hospitality while fostering local entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism practices. He emphasized that the program strengthens the Barbados brand by highlighting the island’s most valuable asset—its people. Visitors who participate in ‘Dine with a Bajan’ will experience genuine connections with their hosts, enjoying traditional dishes and stories that reflect the true spirit of Barbadian hospitality. BTMI CEO Andrea Franklin explained that hosts underwent a rigorous application process and participated in a two-day workshop covering health and safety, service excellence, storytelling, and culinary skills. The evening also featured a preview of the dishes prepared by Chef Creig Greenidge, offering a taste of what guests can expect. The first cohort of hosts includes Maria Joseph, Patricia Mash, Marie Alleyne, and others, alongside the Cricket Legends of Barbados. Hosts like Juliette Jeffers shared their motivations for joining the program, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome they received upon relocating to Barbados. Julia Caine, General Manager of Cricket Legends of Barbados, added that guests dining at their venue will also enjoy insights into the island’s cricketing history. For updates, interested individuals can follow BTMI on social media platforms.
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HR professionals awarded and challenged
At the HRMAB 30th Anniversary Awards Gala, held at the Sandals Resort Ballroom under the theme ‘Celebrating Excellence: Advancing People,’ Dr. Allyson Leacock issued a compelling challenge to human resource professionals. She urged them to take bold actions within the next 90 days to create a workforce that is less fearful of the future, more skilled, inclusive, and prepared for upcoming challenges. Dr. Leacock emphasized the global evolution of work, highlighting the growing demand for analytical and creative thinking, AI proficiency, and data literacy. However, she also underscored the enduring importance of human skills such as leadership, empathy, and lifelong learning. She advocated for a shift towards valuing skills and ongoing certifications over traditional degrees, job titles, and tenure, stating, ‘Skills are the new currency.’ Dr. Leacock encouraged HR professionals to develop dynamic skills taxonomies, recognize micro-credentials, and benchmark roles based on competencies rather than titles. She also stressed the need for continuous learning, supported by data from the World Economic Forum, which predicts the reskilling of many workers by 2027. Dr. Leacock called for a cultural shift from compliance to high performance and growth, emphasizing the importance of clear goals, continuous feedback, fair rewards, and visible growth pathways. She warned against the mindset of ‘everything is awesome,’ which fosters mediocrity, and reminded the audience that ‘potential is not perfection.’ Wayne Sobers, Chief Labour Officer, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative impact of globalization, technological advancements, and economic changes on the workforce. He proposed targeted training, leadership development programs, ethical HR practices, and continuous learning as essential initiatives for workforce development. Sobers emphasized that effective human resource management is crucial for sustainable enterprises and national progress, aligning HRMAB’s efforts with the government’s vision for social and economic transformation. HRMAB President Tisha Peters also called for HR professionals to become strategic partners and change agents within their organizations. She urged them to leverage data, align with organizational goals, and lead proactively. Peters emphasized the importance of mentorship for preserving the profession’s legacy and announced the launch of the ‘HRMAB Arni Walters Scholarship for Human Resource Excellence’ in honor of the late HRMAB trustee. The scholarship, sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank, will be administered by the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus starting in 2026.
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Form motorcycle crime-fighting squad, police urged
The Barbados Road Safety Association (BRSA) has called on the Barbados Police Service to urgently establish specialized motorcycle squads in response to a surge in violent incidents involving illegal scrambler bikes. These bikes are increasingly associated with serious crimes and high-speed escapes, posing a significant threat to public safety. BRSA President Roland Lowe, a former police officer, emphasized the need for a trained and well-equipped team to tackle the issue effectively. Lowe highlighted the inadequacy of broad statements and stressed the necessity of officers skilled in handling dirt bikes and navigating tight, off-road spaces where illegal riders often operate. His remarks followed a recent shootout between police and armed men on motorcycles, which occurred during an attempted apprehension of off-road bikers near Westbury Cemetery. Police Commissioner Richard Boyce has announced intensified efforts to curb the use of illegal scramblers and face coverings, citing their role in facilitating quick getaways and evading detection. However, Lowe expressed skepticism, noting that similar promises in the past have yielded little tangible progress due to the lack of specialized units. He also pointed to broader recruitment challenges within the police force, arguing that attracting qualified personnel is essential for creating effective specialized teams. Lowe concluded that without addressing these underlying issues, the police will remain ill-equipped to combat the growing menace of illegal scrambler bikes and related crimes.