The Belize Government Lotteries (BGLL) has announced an exciting opportunity for citizens to try their luck at winning a million-dollar jackpot. Tickets for this special lottery game are now available at BGLL agents across the nation, with online sales commencing on November 5 via the Fi We Boledo app. Priced at just $5 per ticket, participants can select a four-digit combination for a chance to win the grand prize, which will be drawn on December 20 in Belmopan. In the event of multiple winners, the prize will be divided equally. Winners can claim their rewards starting December 22, but must act quickly as tickets are only valid for 30 days post-draw. A notable aspect of this initiative is that all profits will be directed to charitable causes. However, questions have been raised regarding the transparency of the process. The BGLL has stated that profits will be donated to a charitable organization chosen by its Board, but specifics such as the selection criteria, beneficiary organizations, and the timeline for announcements remain unclear. Additionally, concerns have been voiced about whether BGLL will publish an independently audited report detailing ticket sales, administrative costs, prize payouts, and the exact amount donated. The 30-day validity period for tickets has also been questioned, especially for a one-time, high-stakes game. While the lottery offers a thrilling chance to win big, the lack of detailed information has left some Belizeans skeptical about the initiative’s transparency and accountability.
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Marco Rubio backs postponement of Summit of the Americas
The United States government has extended its gratitude to Dominican President Luis Abinader for his cooperation in hosting the rescheduled Summit of the Americas, now set for 2026 in the Dominican Republic. Originally planned for this year, the event was postponed following a collaborative decision involving the Dominican government, the U.S., the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
In an official statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised President Abinader for his leadership and dedication to regional collaboration. Rubio underscored Washington’s support for the rescheduling, noting that the delay will provide participating nations with additional time to develop robust proposals and foster broader consensus on shared objectives.
The 2026 summit will center on fortifying regional partnerships, advancing democratic governance, enhancing security cooperation, and promoting sustainable development across the hemisphere. Both governments emphasized that the postponement ensures more effective planning, paving the way for tangible outcomes that will benefit citizens throughout the Americas.
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Agribusiness : Ayitika Haiti Wins Silver Medal in the Gourmet Category for its 70% Dark Chocolate «Amelonado-Criollo»
In a remarkable achievement for Haitian agribusiness, Ayitika Haiti has been awarded the silver medal in the ‘Gourmet’ category at the 30th Salon du Chocolat in Paris. The accolade was bestowed upon their 70% dark chocolate, ‘Amelonado-Criollo,’ during the 4th International Chocolate Competition organized by the Agency for the Promotion of Agricultural Products (AVPA). The event, held from October 29 to November 2, 2025, featured 240 exhibitors from over 20 countries, showcasing 170 unique chocolate varieties. Jean Chesnel Jean, the visionary agronomist and founder of Ayitika, expressed his ambition to compete in additional international competitions, particularly in the United States and Canada, with the goal of securing a gold medal for Haiti in the near future. The Ayitika team is now preparing for the Montreal Chocolate Show, scheduled for November 20-23, 2025. Ayitika’s success is rooted in its ‘root-to-bar’ approach, which ensures high-quality chocolate by meticulously overseeing every stage of production, from cacao tree selection to final product. Supported by the Knowledge and Freedom Foundation (FOKAL), Ayitika collaborates with more than 2,500 cacao-producing families, ensuring the authenticity and excellence of its offerings. The Haitian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIHC) also extended its congratulations, highlighting Ayitika’s role in promoting a positive and modern image of Haiti on the global stage. This achievement not only underscores Ayitika’s expertise but also celebrates the talent and perseverance of Haitian artisans, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.
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Body of Norwegian man recovered by Navy in Cabarete
In a tragic incident, the body of a Norwegian national was recovered from the waters off Cabarete, near the Velero Hotel in Sosúa, Puerto Plata province, on Monday afternoon. The Dominican Republic Navy reported that the discovery was made around 2:40 p.m. by the interceptor boat Elnath, approximately two miles from the shore. The victim, identified as 49-year-old Jonas Ovedal, was a resident of Tenares. His remains were transported to the Puerto Plata dock, where forensic pathologist Dr. Miguel Cuevas conducted an initial examination in the presence of judicial authorities. According to the medical report, Ovedal died from drowning. His body was subsequently transferred to the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF) for a detailed autopsy. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading to his death.
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Security : New Presidential Security Coordinator
In a significant move to bolster national security, Haiti has appointed Divisional Commissioner Pierre Louis Cangé as the new Coordinator of Presidential Security. The official ceremony took place on November 3rd, 2025, at the National Palace, presided over by the Commander-in-Chief of the Haitian National Police (PNH), Mr. André Jonas Vladimir Paraison. Cangé was promoted to the rank of Inspector General during the event, marking a pivotal moment in his career. The occasion was attended by prominent figures, including Inspector General Jean Maurest Étienne, Director of Personnel, and Inspector General Jacques Joël Orival, Central Director of Administrative Police, alongside National Palace staff and police officers. Post-ceremony, Commander Paraison and Director Orival introduced Cangé to the Secretary General of the National Palace, Ms. Marie Élisabeth Régine Joseph Haddad, who commended Paraison’s achievements and extended her support to the newly appointed Coordinator. This appointment underscores Haiti’s commitment to enhancing security measures at the highest levels of government.
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MIREX announces postponement of Summit of the Americas
The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) has announced the postponement of the Tenth Summit of the Americas, originally slated to be held in the country. This decision follows a thorough evaluation of the regional landscape and was made in close collaboration with key partners, including the United States, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
In an official statement, MIREX highlighted that the delay aims to foster more productive outcomes for the summit, given the current obstacles to hemispheric dialogue and the aftermath of severe weather events that have affected several Caribbean nations. The Dominican government assured that the resources already allocated for the event will be preserved and reallocated for the rescheduled summit, which will align with other regional meetings planned in the country.
MIREX underscored that since being selected as the host nation in 2022, the Dominican Republic has diligently fulfilled all organizational requirements set by the OAS. The ministry noted that the postponement will allow for broader consultations to determine a new date and to incorporate recently elected democratic governments into the discussions. The statement reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism, regional cooperation, and integration as central tenets of its foreign policy.
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Government Open to Dialogue Amid PSU Threats of Strike
The Government of Belize has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with the Public Service Union (PSU) and employees of the Belize Tax Service (BTS) following reports of potential strike action. The unrest stems from the department’s transition into the Statutory Authority for Revenue Administration (SARA), a new statutory body aimed at modernizing revenue management. Minister of Public Service, Henry Usher, emphasized that while no formal strike notice has been issued, the government is committed to addressing employee concerns. Usher highlighted that the transition to SARA is part of a long-term public sector reform initiative, not an abrupt change. He assured employees that those unwilling to join SARA would have opportunities to continue their roles in other public service sectors. The government remains open to dialogue with the PSU and public officers to resolve the issues amicably.
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FLASH : Cap
A recent inspection of the Cap-Haïtien prison by the Association of Volunteers for the Reintegration of Prisoners (AVRED-Haiti) has unveiled a dire humanitarian crisis. The facility, designed to accommodate 500 inmates, currently houses 841 individuals, including 30 women, 16 minors, and 795 men. This severe overcrowding exacerbates the already deplorable living conditions, with cells lacking ventilation, light, and basic sanitation. The prison’s clinic, in a state of disrepair, is staffed by only one doctor and one nurse, leaving 20 inmates suffering from infectious and skin diseases without proper medical care. The kitchen is unsanitary, toilets are overflowing, and the main building is cracked and dilapidated, posing a risk of collapse. AVRED-Haiti has condemned the flagrant violations of human rights, including the lack of legal assistance, inadequate healthcare, food insecurity, and the absence of educational or reintegration programs. The association has called for urgent intervention by the State and its partners to address these issues and uphold the dignity of those deprived of their liberty.
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CARICOM agencies assist in unified recovery operations in Jamaica after category 5 Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states have rallied together to provide aid and financial support to Jamaica for its emergency response and rebuilding efforts. A coordinated regional response is being led by key agencies, including the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH).
Jamaica’s Prime Minister and CARICOM Chairman, Dr. Andrew Holness, announced on November 2 that discussions with regional partners had focused on enhancing coordination for Jamaica’s recovery. The talks emphasized mobilizing regional assistance, reconstructing resilient infrastructure, and safeguarding public health.
CDEMA’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Riley, expressed confidence in the agency’s efforts, which include collaboration with the Caribbean Development Partners group—a platform involving UN entities, private sector representatives, civil society, and member states. A Rapid Needs Assessment Team (RNAT) from CDEMA, comprising specialists from organizations like UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), and PAHO, is currently in Jamaica conducting multi-sector evaluations. These assessments will inform the government’s strategies across critical areas such as agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, and tourism.
The Caribbean Disaster Relief Unit (CDRU), composed of military, police, and firefighting personnel from across the region, remains on standby for potential deployment. Additionally, the Caribbean Operational Support Team (COST) is prepared to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.
CDB President Daniel Best reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of regional unity. During his visit to Kingston, he highlighted the need for coordinated resource allocation and psychosocial support for citizens and first responders, describing the initiative as a fully integrated post-disaster response.
Other regional institutions, including the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), The University of the West Indies (UWI), and the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS), are also contributing to ensure a comprehensive and effective recovery process.
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Tsunami drill at MBIA: Wednesday, 5 November 2025
The Grenada Airports Authority (GAA) has announced a Tsunami preparedness drill scheduled to take place at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. This initiative is part of the GAA’s commitment to enhancing disaster readiness and ensuring the safety of airport users in the face of potential natural disasters. The drill coincides with World Tsunami Awareness Day, highlighting the importance of global awareness and preparedness for such catastrophic events. The exercise will last approximately 1.5 hours, during which normal airport operations will continue uninterrupted. Flights will not be affected, and the airport will remain open to the public. In the unlikely event of an actual emergency during the drill, the simulation will be halted immediately, and standard emergency protocols will be activated. The GAA has urged the public to remain calm and informed, emphasizing that any emergency-like activities observed during this period are part of the planned exercise. The authority expressed gratitude to travelers, airport stakeholders, and the local community for their cooperation and understanding as they work to bolster safety measures and emergency response capabilities. This drill underscores the GAA’s proactive approach to disaster management and its dedication to safeguarding the well-being of all airport users.