作者: admin

  • Grenada breaks ground on FIFA-funded Technical Development Centre

    Grenada breaks ground on FIFA-funded Technical Development Centre

    The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has officially commenced construction of its highly anticipated FIFA-funded Technical Development Centre in Simon, St Andrew. This milestone event signifies a transformative moment for football in Grenada, promising to enhance youth development, uplift communities, and elevate the sport both nationally and regionally. The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by FIFA representatives, government officials, community leaders, and national team members, heralds a new era in the GFA’s strategic vision to foster talent, build capacity, and achieve excellence in football. GFA President Marlon Glean emphasized the centre’s role as a cornerstone for sustainable football development, stating, ‘This facility is more than a building; it’s the heartbeat of our vision for Grenadian football, ensuring access, opportunity, and professionalism at every level.’ Funded through FIFA’s Forward Programme, the state-of-the-art complex will feature training fields, coaching classrooms, fitness and recovery areas, and administrative offices, serving as the hub for year-round development for athletes, coaches, referees, and administrators. Beyond its technical mandate, the centre is poised to become a community focal point, offering mentorship programs, educational outreach, and social activities. Minister for Sports Hon. Delma Thomas highlighted its broader impact, calling it ‘an investment in our people, youth, and communities.’ The project aligns with the GFA’s Strategic Development Framework, which prioritizes grassroots and youth football, coach and referee education, women’s football participation, and social development through the sport. FIFA Director of Member Associations (Americas) Jair Bertoni reaffirmed FIFA’s commitment to supporting sustainable football infrastructure globally. As construction begins, the GFA invites corporate and community partners to collaborate, ensuring the centre becomes a model for similar initiatives across the Caribbean.

  • Get ready to win big with Campari Red Passion Holiday Winningz

    Get ready to win big with Campari Red Passion Holiday Winningz

    As the holiday season approaches, Campari is captivating the Caribbean with its dynamic ‘Red Passion Holiday Winningz’ campaign. The promotion, currently active in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, St Lucia, Grenada, and The Bahamas, offers consumers the opportunity to celebrate with a chance to win exciting prizes. Campari, known for its vibrant brand ethos, is not only setting the stage for memorable holiday experiences but also giving back to its loyal customers. Theresa Higgins-Edwards, Campari Export Manager, emphasized, ‘Campari is more than a brand; it’s an invitation to live passionately and celebrate boldly. This season, we’re rewarding that passion by giving back to our consumers who make every celebration unforgettable.’ From now until December 31, every purchase of Campari 750ml or 1 litre bottles from participating supermarkets and wholesalers enters consumers into a draw for weekly cash prizes, supermarket and gas vouchers, and phone cards. Monthly prizes include laptops, iPhones, and Samsung/Apple Watches. The grand prize, available in each market, offers a furniture and appliance shopping spree valued at US$3,500 or utility bills covered up to US$2,400. Higgins-Edwards added, ‘Across the Caribbean, Campari resonates with those who value culture, connection, and energy. This campaign transforms that connection into tangible rewards, ensuring every pour this holiday season comes with the chance to win big.’ Campari continues to embody passion, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences, and invites Caribbean consumers to toast to togetherness, excitement, and bold living.

  • BOG start nieuwe fase bij 98 -jarig bestaan

    BOG start nieuwe fase bij 98 -jarig bestaan

    The Bureau of Public Health (BOG) in Suriname marked its 98th anniversary on November 18, coinciding with the soft opening of its new headquarters. The event, attended by Health Minister André Misiekaba, highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in the nation’s preventive healthcare system. Minister Misiekaba emphasized that the new building symbolizes BOG’s readiness to confidently embrace the future. ‘This is tangible proof that BOG not only honors its past but is also stepping into the future with conviction,’ he stated. The minister underscored BOG’s foundational role in Suriname’s public health, particularly its Central Laboratory, which played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic as the first in the Caribbean to initiate COVID-19 diagnostic capabilities. ‘This achievement was no coincidence but the result of years of dedication,’ Misiekaba added. The new facility, coupled with internal relocations, lays a solid foundation for the decades ahead. The minister also announced an ambitious shift in BOG’s mission, aiming to transform it into Suriname’s leading National Knowledge and Research Institute for Public Health. ‘We are entering a new phase where we will no longer settle for merely recording diseases. BOG must become the intellectual engine behind public health,’ he declared. Acting Director Radjesh Ori reflected on BOG’s evolution over the years, noting its indispensable role in society. ’98 years is a respectable age. BOG has become a household name and is irreplaceable,’ Ori remarked. Minister Misiekaba concluded by emphasizing that true change lies not in infrastructure but in the dedication and expertise of BOG’s staff. Despite ongoing public health challenges, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to drive scientific transformation. ‘If we embrace this scientific shift, the results—a healthier and more productive Suriname—will be well worth it,’ he said, calling for collective ambition and collaboration to make BOG a proud cornerstone of Surinamese science and public health.

  • GHTA Culinary Team wins Silver at Taste of the Caribbean 2025

    GHTA Culinary Team wins Silver at Taste of the Caribbean 2025

    The Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association (GHTA) has proudly announced that its Culinary Team achieved Silver in the National Team of the Year category at the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean 2025 competition, held in Barbados. This remarkable feat underscores Grenada’s growing reputation for culinary excellence and the exceptional talent displayed by its team on one of the Caribbean’s most competitive gastronomic platforms.

  • A new chapter for Caribbean racing – The Antigua Racing Cup 2026

    A new chapter for Caribbean racing – The Antigua Racing Cup 2026

    The highly anticipated Antigua Racing Cup (ARC) is set to make its debut from April 9 to 12, 2026, off the picturesque south coast of Antigua. This new regatta, a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Tourism, the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, the National Parks Authority, and local stakeholders, aims to enhance Antigua’s sailing calendar by complementing the renowned Antigua Sailing Week. Designed specifically for competitive sailors, the ARC will feature meticulously planned race management, course design, and scheduling to ensure a high-performance experience. The event will be headquartered at Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will serve as the Regatta Village, offering logistical support and vibrant post-race social gatherings. The ARC will cater to a diverse fleet, including monohulls, maxis, offshore multihulls, and smaller boats, with dual scoring under CSA and IRC systems managed via Nautical Cloud software. Confirmed one-design divisions include the RS Elite and Petticrow Dragon fleets, with Diam trimarans also under consideration. Antigua’s south coast, known for its consistent trade winds and varied sailing conditions, provides an ideal backdrop for the event. Race Manager Jaime Torres emphasized the ARC’s focus on delivering top-class racing, challenging the world’s best teams while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for cruising boats. The ARC aims to solidify Antigua’s reputation as a premier racing destination and enrich the Caribbean regatta circuit. Entries are now open, with the race notice published on Nautical Cloud.

  • Government advances fisheries legislation

    Government advances fisheries legislation

    The Government of Grenada has taken decisive steps to bolster the sustainability and regulatory framework of its fisheries sector through critical legislative reforms. On November 19, 2025, the House of Representatives unanimously passed the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025, which introduces comprehensive measures to enhance marine conservation and regulatory oversight. This legislative move is part of Grenada’s broader strategy to address compliance issues with the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act and avert a potential ban on fish imports to the United States set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The amendment includes updated provisions to align with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) standards, aiming to reverse the U.S. decision announced on August 26, 2025. The bill comprises four key clauses: redefining terms such as ‘observer’ and ‘marine mammal,’ establishing an Observer and Monitoring Programme, empowering the Minister to enact marine mammal protection regulations, and imposing penalties of up to EC$100,000 or 12 months imprisonment for violations. To ensure stakeholder engagement, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs conducted nationwide consultations, including a pivotal meeting on November 14, 2025, at the St George’s Fisheries Complex Conference Room. The discussions focused on export restrictions to the U.S. and the forthcoming Fisheries (Marine Mammals) Regulations, 2025, which aim to prohibit intentional harm to marine mammals, mandate reporting of incidental catches, restrict harmful fishing gear, and implement a Marine Mammals Management Plan. Additionally, Grenada is collaborating with Compete Caribbean Plus and the Inter-American Development Bank on a pilot initiative to introduce digital vessel monitoring and a fisheries data platform. This initiative includes installing 20 Remora Electronic Monitoring/Vessel Monitoring System (EMS/VMS) devices on longline vessels and providing training to stakeholders. Permanent Secretary Javan Williams emphasized the importance of balancing economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, ensuring the sustainability of Grenada’s fisheries for future generations.

  • Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Project launched

    Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Project launched

    On October 23, 2025, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, in partnership with the Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF), unveiled the Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Project during the 11th Council of Ministers: Health meeting. This initiative, supported by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, aims to address critical challenges in eye care across the region, including limited resources, accessibility, and equity. The project aligns with the OECS Heads of Government’s mandate to establish Centres of Excellence in healthcare. A comprehensive fact-finding assessment will be conducted to evaluate eye care needs and capacities within member states, ensuring the development of an evidence-based Regional Eye Health Strategy. Guided by the World Health Organisation’s “Eye Care in Health Systems: Guide for Action,” the initiative will generate robust data to identify prevalent eye conditions, at-risk populations, and targeted interventions. Honourable Philip Telesford, Grenada’s Minister for Health and incoming Chair of the OECS PPS Board, endorsed the project, describing it as a “blueprint for action” that prioritizes equity and integrated, people-centred care. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, emphasized the strategy’s role in fostering long-term health resilience. Tony Weeks, President and CEO of the BSF, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to equitable healthcare access and the collaborative efforts to eliminate preventable blindness. The project’s findings will be showcased at the inaugural Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and OECS Strategic Priority 5: advancing Equity and Inclusion.

  • Dangriga Mother Receives New Home Ahead of Christmas

    Dangriga Mother Receives New Home Ahead of Christmas

    As the festive season approaches, a Dangriga mother of five, Mirza Ariola, has been gifted a new home, marking a significant milestone in her life. This heartwarming gesture was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Belize Bank and Hand in Hand Ministries’ Building for Change programme. The official handover and house blessing ceremony took place on Friday, where Ariola became the 14th beneficiary of this 14-year partnership aimed at providing secure and stable housing for families in need. Ariola expressed her profound gratitude in a social media post, stating, ‘This is what compassion looks like. You guys really put in the work. Words can’t express how thankful I am. May the good lord continue to bless all of you in a very special way, and may your basket never run dry.’ Since its inception in 2002, the Building for Change initiative has constructed over 500 small wooden homes across Belize, often with the assistance of international volunteer groups and local business sponsors. This year, volunteers from Belize Bank’s Dangriga Branch worked diligently alongside Ariola’s family to ensure the home was completed in time for the handover.

  • OECS Commission joins Brenda Stafford Foundation to launch regional eye health initiative

    OECS Commission joins Brenda Stafford Foundation to launch regional eye health initiative

    On October 23, 2025, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, in collaboration with the Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, unveiled the Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Initiative during the 11th Council of Ministers: Health meeting. This landmark initiative, sponsored by the BSF, aims to address critical eye care needs across the Caribbean by establishing Centers of Excellence in healthcare, as directed by OECS Heads of Government. The project seeks to overcome resource limitations, enhance access, and promote equity in health services across member nations. A comprehensive assessment conducted by the OECS Commission, with support from the BSF, identified prevalent eye conditions, vulnerable populations, and priority areas for intervention. Drawing inspiration from the World Health Organization’s “Eye Care in Health Systems: Guide for Action,” the initiative will develop an evidence-based strategy aligned with regional and national health priorities. By leveraging detailed epidemiological data, the plan aims to optimize resource allocation and improve health outcomes across the Caribbean. Honourable Philip Telesford, Grenada’s Minister of Health and incoming Chair of the OECS PPS Board, endorsed the project, describing it as a “blueprint for action” that fosters equity and shifts towards a unified, patient-centered approach. Mrs. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, emphasized the initiative’s role in strengthening long-term health resilience, calling it a roadmap for measurable goals and collaborative action. Mr. Tony Weeks, President and CEO of the BSF, highlighted the partnership’s four-decade commitment to eye health, noting the region’s determination to eliminate preventable blindness. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and OECS Strategic Priority 5, promoting equity and inclusion. Its findings will be presented at the 2026 Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua and Barbuda.

  • 2025 Grenlec Debates final

    2025 Grenlec Debates final

    On November 18, 2025, the Crown Ballroom at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort hosted a spirited debate on the theme ‘Nationalism and Culture.’ The motion centered on whether sports heroes contribute more to Grenada’s national identity than musicians or artists. The event saw intense competition between The Anglican High School and St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School, with the latter emerging victorious with 343 points. The Anglican High School secured second place with 322 points, while St Joseph’s Convent, St George, and Presentation Brothers College claimed third place. The debate featured talented debaters from both teams, with Jayna Caton, Jahzara Date, Courtnee James, Jinnah Morain, and Makiah Ramsey representing The Anglican High School, and Shemmicah Lindsey, Calvin Clyne, Jenee Andrew, Kheun Smart, and Desali Jones from St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School. The audience, comprising over 4,500 social media voters, crowned Ethan Auguste from Presentation Brothers College and Kaina Carter from St George’s Institute as the favorite debaters. Coaches and principals from both schools expressed pride in their students’ performances, highlighting the event’s significance in fostering critical thinking and cultural discourse among Grenada’s youth.