At just 11 years old, Jiovanni Osbourne, a First Form student at Alleyne School in Barbados, has demonstrated remarkable bravery in the face of a rare and life-threatening condition. Diagnosed with beta thalassaemia major at the age of four, Jiovanni has endured years of medical treatments, including regular blood transfusions, to manage the severe genetic blood disorder that prevents his body from producing enough healthy red blood cells. However, the only long-term solution to his condition is a bone marrow transplant, a procedure that comes with significant medical and financial challenges.
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VIDEO: PM Says Social Security Surplus Exceeds $30 Million
In a significant parliamentary update, Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed that Antigua and Barbuda’s Social Security Scheme has achieved a surplus exceeding $30 million. Addressing the Parliament, Browne emphasized that this figure is expected to grow as the government intensifies reforms aimed at ensuring the fund’s long-term sustainability. The announcement came in response to inquiries from the Opposition Bench, with Browne confirming that the audited financial statements and management accounts of the Social Security Board had been formally submitted to Parliament. Browne detailed the standard procedure, which involves sending these documents to the Ministry of Legal Affairs for inclusion on the parliamentary agenda. He assured that he had personally verified the inclusion of the latest financial records in the day’s agenda. When questioned further about the fund’s financial health, Browne described the surplus as a “moving target” that continues to improve due to ongoing government initiatives. This development underscores the administration’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s social security infrastructure and ensuring its resilience for future generations.
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Air Peace to Begin Nigeria–Antigua Charter Service on December 21
LAGOS, Nigeria — Air Peace, the largest airline in West and Central Africa, is set to introduce a groundbreaking monthly charter service connecting Lagos and Accra to Antigua and Barbados, with additional extensions to Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica. The service, scheduled to commence on December 21, 2025, marks a significant milestone in intercontinental travel, as Air Peace becomes the sole carrier offering direct flights from West and Central Africa to the Caribbean. This initiative is expected to foster enhanced tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two regions. The new route builds on Air Peace’s previous Caribbean operations, including the Lagos–Montego Bay charter in 2020 and the Abuja–St. Kitts and Nevis service in 2025. The airline’s strategic vision emphasizes bridging continents and expanding interregional travel opportunities. To cater to travelers, Air Peace has collaborated with Tour Brokers International of Nigeria, Sun Seekers Tours of Ghana, and Adansi Travels of Ghana to offer exclusive tour packages. Flight fares for Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago are now accessible on the airline’s website and through accredited travel agents. This development underscores Air Peace’s commitment to innovation and its role as a key player in global aviation.
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Belize Takes Over Chairmanship of World Bank’s Small States Forum
Belize has been appointed as the Chair of the World Bank’s Small States Forum (SSF) for the term spanning January 2026 to December 2028. This significant development underscores Belize’s growing influence in addressing the unique challenges faced by small and vulnerable economies on the global stage. The announcement was made during the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, held in Washington, D.C., from October 13 to 17, 2025. Prime Minister John Briceño will spearhead the forum’s initiatives, focusing on crafting tailored solutions to economic and environmental issues that disproportionately affect small states. The Small States Forum, a platform uniting finance ministers and central bank governors from over 50 countries, plays a pivotal role in addressing vulnerabilities such as limited economic diversification, climate risks, and external shocks. Belize’s leadership comes at a crucial juncture as the World Bank finalizes its new Small States Strategy, aimed at providing more effective support to these nations. In a pre-recorded address, Prime Minister Briceño expressed his gratitude for the appointment and emphasized Belize’s dedication to securing “fit-for-purpose programmes and initiatives” for small economies. Belize succeeds the Republic of Cabo Verde in this role. The Belizean delegation, led by Financial Secretary Joseph Waight, included key figures such as Central Bank Governor Kareem Michael and Ambassador to the U.S. Nestor Mendez, who outlined Belize’s strategic priorities for the new framework.
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Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez Named Belize’s Global Ambassador for Inclusion
In a significant development for Belize’s commitment to social inclusion, Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez has been named the country’s Global Ambassador to the Global Coalition for Inclusion. The announcement was made by Marshall Nuñez, Vice Chair of Special Olympics Belize, during a formal courtesy visit to Minister Garcia-Ramirez on October 18, 2025. This prestigious nomination underscores her tireless efforts in championing inclusion, equality, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities throughout Belize. Minister Garcia-Ramirez has been instrumental in shaping national policies that safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups and promote social integration. Upon accepting the role, she expressed her gratitude to Special Olympics Belize and reiterated her ministry’s dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable society. The Global Coalition for Inclusion is a collaborative platform that unites global leaders and advocates to advance inclusive practices in education, health, and community development, particularly for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
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IN PICTURES: NDFD’S Creole in the Streets 2025
The National Development Foundation (NDFD) recently hosted the 2025 edition of ‘Creole in the Streets’ (CITS), a vibrant showcase of local culture and community spirit. The event featured an array of colorful displays and offerings from local vendors, highlighting the rich heritage and creativity of the region. Through a series of captivating images, the event captured the essence of cultural pride and economic vitality, bringing together residents and visitors alike in a festive atmosphere. The photos, which depict the lively stalls and enthusiastic participants, serve as a testament to the success of the initiative in promoting local talent and fostering community engagement. This year’s CITS not only celebrated cultural diversity but also provided a platform for small businesses to thrive, reinforcing the importance of such events in preserving and promoting regional identity.
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VIDEO: Walker Urges Reduced Reliance on the Citizenship by Investment Programme
Barbuda Member of Parliament Trevor Walker has issued a stark warning to the government regarding its heavy dependence on the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). During a parliamentary session on Thursday, Walker highlighted the growing international scrutiny and pressure that could undermine the financial stability the CIP provides to Antigua and Barbuda. He emphasized that powerful nations perceive such programs as a threat to immigration control and geopolitical stability, potentially leading to coordinated efforts to dismantle them. Walker acknowledged the government’s efforts to protect the CIP but stressed the urgent need for economic diversification. He cautioned that the nation’s reliance on the $100 million generated annually from the CIP creates a significant vulnerability in the national budget. Walker urged the government to adopt a long-term strategy that reduces dependence on the program and explores alternative economic avenues. He also pointed out the hypocrisy of larger countries, such as the United States, which operate similar investment schemes while criticizing Caribbean nations for theirs. Walker concluded by advocating for contingency planning to safeguard the nation’s economic future.
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APUA Probes Electricity Under-Billing by Major Businesses
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has launched an investigation into allegations that several major commercial enterprises, including supermarkets, have been paying significantly lower electricity bills compared to ordinary households. This revelation was confirmed by a government spokesperson on Friday, sparking concerns over potential irregularities in the billing system. Maurice Merchant, the Director-General of Communications, disclosed that the Cabinet was informed of the discrepancies, describing the situation as a clear indication of underlying issues. “Some large businesses are paying electricity bills that some households are paying,” Merchant stated during a post-Cabinet media briefing. In response, APUA has initiated the installation of tamper-proof metering systems designed to prevent manipulation of utility equipment and ensure accurate billing. The move comes after earlier findings by the Ministry of Utilities revealed that certain companies had been under-reporting their electricity usage, leading to significant revenue losses for the authority. Merchant emphasized that the upgrade of meters is part of a broader strategy to curb irregularities and recover lost income. While specific names and figures were not disclosed, officials acknowledged that the situation has prompted the Cabinet to call for stricter oversight of commercial energy consumption. The new metering systems are expected to play a pivotal role in modernizing APUA’s billing and monitoring infrastructure, aligning with the government’s efforts to enhance transparency and reduce revenue leakages across state agencies.
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Destructive pest threatens Christmas veg crop
Barbados is bracing for potential shortages of okra, beans, and sorrel this Christmas due to the rapid spread of the Indian cotton jassid, a highly destructive pest confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture. The pest, first detected in Spring Hall, St Lucy, in March 2024, has been causing significant crop damage, raising concerns about price hikes and supply disruptions during the holiday season. Senior Agricultural Officer Bret Taylor described the situation as escalating, warning that without swift intervention, the pest could further devastate local produce. The tiny green insect feeds on the undersides of leaves, sucking plant sap and injecting toxins that cause crinkling, curling, and bronzing of foliage, leading to reduced yields. The pest’s impact is particularly challenging for okra, which is harvested frequently, limiting the use of harsh chemical controls. Taylor emphasized the importance of early detection and management to avoid reliance on chemicals. The Indian cotton jassid, previously known to attack cotton, has expanded its host range to include okra, sorrel, and beans, and has no natural enemies in Barbados, allowing it to spread unchecked. The ministry is monitoring the emergence of biological control agents, which have helped manage the pest in other Caribbean regions. Taylor highlighted the economic implications, as okra and beans are staple crops, and sorrel is in high demand during Christmas. He urged farmers and importers to follow proper procedures to prevent the introduction of invasive species and called for vigilance in reporting unusual pest activity. Barbados has recorded about 30 invasive species over the past 25 years, with the croton scale being one of the most damaging, affecting a wide range of crops. Taylor stressed the importance of adhering to import regulations to safeguard national food security.
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President benadrukt publieke taak STVS bij viering 60-jarig jubileum
The Surinamese Television Foundation (STVS), the nation’s pioneering television station, is set to mark its 60th anniversary on October 20. A commemorative gathering was held on Friday, attended by President Jennifer Simons, Vice President Gregory Rusland, and Minister of Home Affairs Marinus Bee. President Simons highlighted the enduring public value of STVS, describing it as a vital source of news, education, and cultural enrichment for the country. She expressed optimism that the broadcaster would continue to fulfill its societal role professionally in the digital age. STVS Director Raoul Abisoina reflected on six decades of broadcasting, calling the milestone ‘a moment of gratitude and reflection.’ He acknowledged the station’s resilience through political and technological changes but emphasized the need for modernization investments, including a new broadcasting facility. Established on October 20, 1965, by then-Prime Minister Johan Adolf Pengel, STVS was Suriname’s sole television channel for many years.