In a bold call to action, students across Barbados were challenged to spearhead the nation’s transition to sustainable energy during the Barbados Sustainable Energy Youth Forum. Held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre under the theme ‘Lead the charge – Barbados needs your spark’, the event emphasized the critical role of young minds in shaping a greener future. Kevin Hunte, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, urged students to become ‘energy detectives’ by investigating and optimizing energy use in their schools and homes. He highlighted the importance of energy efficiency, stating, ‘Why build a bigger generator when you can just use less energy to do the same thing?’ Hunte encouraged students to start with simple measures, such as replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs, adjusting air conditioning settings, and unplugging unused electronics. He also inspired them to embark on innovative projects, including DIY solar ovens, mini wind turbines, and home energy audits. The forum featured two panel discussions: ‘How can energy shape a resilient climate future?’ and ‘Integration of solar, wind, and other renewables with battery storage,’ featuring experts from Barbados Light & Power, the Barbados Renewable Energy Association, and the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. Students from schools such as Christ Church Foundation, Combermere, and Barbados Community College actively participated, asking insightful questions to deepen their understanding of the energy sector. Hunte concluded by urging students to trust their abilities, saying, ‘Your perspective is vital. We see energy as empowerment. This forum is just the beginning.’
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LISTEN: Director General of Communications Mounts Firm Defence of Works Minister Maria Browne
In a robust and unwavering defense, the Director General of Communications has publicly supported Works Minister Maria Browne amidst mounting criticism. Addressing the media, the Director General emphasized Browne’s dedication and effectiveness in her role, highlighting her contributions to key infrastructure projects and her commitment to public service. The defense comes in response to recent allegations questioning Browne’s performance and decision-making. The Director General dismissed these claims as unfounded, asserting that they stem from political motivations rather than factual inaccuracies. This public endorsement aims to reinforce confidence in Browne’s leadership and to counter the negative narrative surrounding her tenure. The statement also called for a more constructive and evidence-based approach to political discourse, urging stakeholders to focus on collaborative efforts rather than divisive criticism.
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BRI, a new international dynamic driven by China
In a recent dialogue with Prensa Latina, Cuban academician Eduardo Regalado highlighted the transformative impact of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on Latin America. Regalado emphasized that the megaproject has significantly contributed to infrastructure development, enhanced connectivity, facilitated technology transfer, and promoted environmental conservation efforts. Moreover, it has opened new avenues for trade and investment cooperation between Latin America and other participating nations. Regalado underscored that the BRI provides an alternative development pathway for Global South countries, particularly in Latin America, offering access to financing, advanced technologies, and collaborative opportunities without the political constraints often associated with traditional global financial mechanisms.
French academician Jean-Pierre echoed these sentiments, noting that the BRI has evolved from a conceptual project into a tangible reality that is reshaping international dynamics. He described the initiative as a viable alternative to the faltering capitalist system, aligning with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s five proposals for global governance. Jean-Pierre emphasized that the BRI is grounded in principles of non-intervention, respect for sovereignty, solidarity, and peace, making it a unique model for international cooperation.
Both experts are participating in the sub-forum ‘Belt and Road Initiative, Civilizational Dialogue,’ held as part of the Yangtze River Culture Forum. The event has brought together approximately 300 scholars from over 30 countries to discuss the BRI’s role in fostering global development and cross-cultural understanding.
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Support for compulsory youth service plan
The President of the Men’s Empowerment Network, Fabian Sargeant, has expressed strong support for a proposal by Barbados’ Minister of Education, Chad Blackman, which mandates all secondary school students to join community-based organizations. Blackman announced on Wednesday his intention to present a paper to Cabinet seeking approval for compulsory participation in such organizations from Year 1 through to graduation. The initiative aims to enhance civic values, leadership skills, and a sense of service among the youth of Barbados. Sargeant, who has a background in community groups, emphasized the transformative impact of such experiences on personal and professional development. He highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and public speaking. Sargeant also pointed out that the program would instill a sense of responsibility and civic pride, encouraging young people to give back to their communities. He argued that community engagement provides practical skills highly valued by employers, such as budget management and communication. Sargeant recalled his own experiences as a parish ambassador in the early 2000s, where he learned the importance of independence and resourcefulness. He believes that the proposed national service model could foster a new culture of youth empowerment and civic engagement across Barbados.
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Dominica’s Cadence-lypso Queen Ophelia invited to major women’s leadership forum in Burkina Faso
Dominican music legend Ophelia has been invited to perform at the 14th edition of the Forum International des Femmes Entreprenantes et Dynamiques (FIED) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from November 25–30, 2025. This prestigious invitation follows the release of her reggae anthem ‘Burkinabe Rise,’ a powerful tribute to the resilience and aspirations of the Burkinabe people. FIED 2025, a leading pan-African event, focuses on women’s leadership, industrialization, and the promotion of local products as key drivers of Africa’s economic future. The forum will host women entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and development partners for panels, workshops, exhibitions, and networking sessions aimed at advancing women’s economic empowerment across the continent. Ophelia’s performance of ‘Burkinabe Rise’ will be a highlight of the forum’s cultural program, symbolizing unity between Africa and its diaspora. Known as Dominica’s ‘Queen of Cadence-lypso,’ Ophelia has long been celebrated for her socially conscious music and unique Creole vocal style. Her participation in FIED 2025 is expected to strengthen cultural and economic ties between the Caribbean and West Africa while showcasing Dominica’s rich musical heritage. Ophelia described the invitation as a ‘bridge between Roseau and Ouagadougou,’ emphasizing the song’s message of solidarity with Africa’s fight for justice, economic freedom, and cultural pride.
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Regionale handel blijft groeien ondanks Amerikaanse tarieven
Despite the recent imposition of broad import tariffs by the United States, trade between Latin America and the Caribbean is projected to grow significantly in 2025, according to a report released by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). The report, presented on Wednesday, indicates that the impact of the US tariffs has been less severe than initially feared. The value of regional exports is expected to rise by 5% this year, up from 4.5% in 2024, driven by a 4% volume growth and a modest 1% price increase. Mexico, the region’s largest exporter, is also anticipated to see a 5% growth in exports. The limited effect of the US tariffs is attributed to strong demand in the early months of the year, with American companies accelerating imports and building inventories in anticipation of higher tariffs. Additionally, robust trade dynamics among Asian economies have contributed to global trade stability. However, ECLAC warns that the outlook for 2026 is less favorable, with growth in international goods trade expected to slow due to reduced inventory buildup and potential new trade tensions. The export of services from the region is projected to grow by 8% this year, slightly down from 9% in 2024. Between January and August, prices for key export commodities from the region rose by an average of 1.7%, compared to a 2.1% decline in the same period last year. ECLAC attributes the upward revision in expectations to the strong trade momentum in the first half of the year. Currently, the effective average US tariff on Latin American goods is 10%, seven percentage points lower than the global average. However, the commission cautions that this relatively favorable position could change quickly due to trade deficits and geopolitical developments. ECLAC advises regional countries to diversify their trade relationships and deepen regional integration to enhance economic resilience in a world where trade policy is increasingly used as a strategic tool.
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Barbados to host Trinidad and Tobago for Concacaf W Qualifier
The Lady Tridents of Barbados are set to face Trinidad and Tobago in a pivotal match of the 2025/26 Concacaf W Qualifiers on Monday, December 1, at the Kensington Oval. Head Coach Kerry Trotman has passionately called on fans to rally behind the team, emphasizing the unique thrill of playing on home soil. “Representing your nation in front of a supportive home crowd is an unparalleled experience,” Trotman remarked. “I urge all Bajans to come out and show their unwavering support, especially during this patriotic weekend.” She added that the team’s preparations are progressing smoothly, with the final squad selection underway, ensuring the players are ready to take on Trinidad with pride. BFA President Randy Harris expressed his enthusiasm for hosting an international women’s football match in Barbados, highlighting the association’s dedication to advancing women’s football. “Women’s football is gaining global momentum, and the BFA is fully aligned with FIFA’s vision to unlock its full potential and accelerate its growth worldwide,” Harris stated. “We remain committed to strengthening all facets of the women’s game locally, making it a top priority.” The Lady Tridents are placed in Group F of the Concacaf W Qualifiers, alongside Trinidad and Tobago, El Salvador, and Honduras. The upcoming rounds of matches are scheduled for February (vs. El Salvador) and April (vs. Honduras) during the FIFA Women’s International Match Windows in 2025. The six group winners will secure a spot in the 2026 Concacaf W Championship, which serves as the qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. Admission to the match is free, encouraging widespread attendance and support for the Lady Tridents.
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Roach recall key to West Indies’ hopes, says Sammy
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has expressed strong confidence in the inclusion of veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, asserting that his presence will significantly enhance the team’s competitiveness. Roach’s selection comes at a crucial time, as the West Indies grapple with injuries to key fast bowlers Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Ramon Simmonds, and Jediah Blades. The 37-year-old Barbadian, who recently participated in a High-Performance camp organized by Cricket West Indies (CWI), is set to spearhead the bowling attack alongside Jayden Seales. Roach’s career appeared to be winding down after he was omitted from the Test squads against Australia and India earlier this year. However, his last appearance for the Windies in January’s drawn series against Pakistan showcased his enduring skill. Sammy highlighted Roach’s impressive track record against New Zealand, where he has claimed 36 of his 284 Test wickets, emphasizing that his experience and discipline will be pivotal in challenging the fifth-ranked Kiwis. The coach also hinted that a strong performance by Roach could complicate future selection decisions, especially with Alzarri and Shamar expected to return next year. Sammy expressed optimism about the depth of West Indies’ fast bowling resources, envisioning a scenario where multiple performers, including Roach, could elevate the team’s prospects in upcoming series against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
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Shields earns maiden call-up as WI gear up for NZ tests
The West Indies cricket team has introduced fresh talent to its 15-member Test squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand, commencing next month. Ojay Shields, a promising Jamaican fast bowler, has received his maiden call-up, stepping in to fill the void left by injured frontline pacers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph. Shields, who has claimed 34 wickets in 16 first-class matches, will join seasoned campaigner Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales to form a relatively inexperienced pace attack. Additionally, middle-order batsman Kavem Hodge has been recalled to the squad, bringing his experience of 11 Tests and 556 runs to the table. The team, which assembled in New Zealand on November 20, will benefit from a two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI in Lincoln, Christchurch, to acclimatize to local conditions. Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, emphasized the meticulous preparation undertaken for this challenging tour, including a high-performance camp in Antigua designed to simulate New Zealand’s pace-friendly pitches. The series, part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship, marks the West Indies’ final fixture for 2025. The squad, led by Roston Chase, is supported by a comprehensive team management unit, including head coach Daren Sammy and a host of specialized coaches and support staff. The tour schedule includes warm-up matches and three Tests across Christchurch, Wellington, and Mount Maunganui, promising an exciting contest between the two cricketing nations.
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Colombia: Senator states Peace Agreement impacted social conscience
Carlos Gallo, a former member of the last secretariat of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People’s Army (FARC-EP), recently shared insights with Prensa Latina on the implementation of Colombia’s historic peace agreement. Gallo emphasized that the process was fundamentally a political endeavor, rather than a mechanical checklist of fulfilled terms. He noted that the government succeeding Juan Manuel Santos’s administration (2010-2018) opposed the agreement, creating significant political tension and resistance for four years. Despite this, a coalition of political and social forces emerged to safeguard the peace process from complete collapse. Gallo highlighted that the agreement catalyzed profound political and social transformations, including the election of Colombia’s first progressive government. The Final Peace Agreement, signed at the Colon Theater in Bogotá, marked the end of nearly four years of negotiations in Cuba and over 50 years of armed conflict with FARC-EP. As the agreement approaches its ninth anniversary on November 24, Gallo’s reflections underscore its enduring impact on Colombia’s political landscape.