In a significant development for thousands of policyholders, the Grenada Supreme Court has approved an initial distribution of approximately EC$9.5 million to CLICO International Life (CIL) policyholders, marking a long-awaited step toward financial recovery. The decision, announced on 12 May 2025, comes 14 years after the company’s collapse in 2011, which left many Grenadian families without life insurance benefits and retirement savings. Despite this progress, the payout represents only 6.59% of the total admitted claims, which amount to EC$144.9 million. The distribution follows a small claims scheme, with claims under EC$50 receiving no payment due to high processing costs, while claims between EC$50 and EC$1,000 will be paid in full. Policyholders with claims between EC$1,000 and EC$15,576 can choose between a lump sum payment of EC$1,000 or 5.5% of their total claim amount, while claims over EC$15,576 will receive 5.5% of their claim value. The Grenada Authority for the Regulations of Financial Institutions (GARFIN) has urged policyholders to review correspondence and respond promptly if they have not received personalized letters by 31 October 2025. The Judicial Manager has also launched a dedicated website to provide updates on the ongoing judicial process, ensuring transparency and communication with affected parties.
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Tributes pour in for late West Indian Anglican Archbishop Drexel Gomez
The Caribbean and the global Anglican community are united in mourning the passing of Archbishop Drexel Gomez, a revered figure in the Anglican Church, who died on Tuesday at the age of 88. Born in the Bahamas, Gomez was a trailblazer in the Church, becoming the first Caribbean-born Bishop of Barbados in 1972 at just 36 years old. His leadership spanned two decades, marking a historic chapter in the diocese’s 200-year history. In 1998, he ascended to the role of Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies, further cementing his legacy. Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados paid heartfelt tribute to Gomez, recalling his gentle demeanor, unwavering authority, and profound impact on both the Church and society. She highlighted his ability to connect with people of all ages and his fearless engagement with social and political issues. Bishop Michael Maxwell of Barbados also honored Gomez’s life, emphasizing his dedication to the Church and his contributions to the Anglican Communion. Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis remembered Gomez as a spiritual guide and a steadfast servant of the Bahamian people, whose moral clarity and quiet courage left an indelible mark. Archbishop Gomez’s life and work continue to inspire generations, leaving a legacy of faith, leadership, and compassion.
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The least of these — Matthew 25:40
In his concluding address to the Good News Catholic Communications (GNCC) panel on the Age of Civil Responsibility (ACR) Bill, Bishop Clyde Harvey delivered a series of thought-provoking insights. He emphasized that the bill does not strip parents of their rights but ensures that children in need receive necessary support. Harvey highlighted that the core issue lies not in legislation but in education, pointing out the church’s diminished role in educating teenagers and parents. He debunked the Caribbean myth that parents universally discourage sexual activity, noting that some even encourage it. Harvey underscored the church’s duty to protect the vulnerable, particularly children, and concluded with a powerful appeal: ‘The bill must be withdrawn in its present form and reintroduced in the new parliamentary session, preceded by a thorough review to align it with our deeper goals, including proper family education.’ This call for responsible leadership stands in stark contrast to the pervasive silence of many religious leaders on the sexual crisis. The article questions the church’s failure to address intimate partner violence, incest, rape, and adolescent pregnancy, largely driven by adult men. It critiques the church’s deviation from its mission of love, inclusion, fairness, and justice, attributing its timidity to cultural stigmatization of sexuality. The piece invokes the legacies of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who championed justice and condemned silence. It concludes with a poignant inquiry into the absence of courageous voices among faith leaders, labeling their silence as scandalous. The article is co-signed by Tonia Frame, PhD, President of the Grenada Planned Parenthood Association (GPPA), and Fred Nunes, PhD, Consultant for Advocates for Safe Parenthood: Improving Reproductive Equity (ASPIRE).
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Unchecked coastal projects threaten Barbados’ identity, says UN youth advisor
A United Nations climate advisor has raised alarms over the unchecked expansion of hotels and high-rise condominiums along Barbados’ coastline, warning that such development is eroding the island’s natural beauty and ecological integrity. Speaking at the Barbados Youth Climate Action Summit and Expo, Ashley Lashley, a prominent environmental advocate, criticized the prioritization of profit over sustainability, calling for a fundamental shift in how progress is measured.
Lashley, who also heads the Ashley Lashley Foundation, highlighted the visible consequences of coastal development. “When you drive around Barbados, you see hotels and condos growing taller by the week, restaurants creeping closer to the beach, and this is labeled as progress. But progress for whom?” she questioned. She expressed deep concern over the loss of natural spaces, particularly beaches, which are vital to the island’s identity and future generations.
Lashley argued that Barbados’ economic model rewards resource extraction rather than environmental protection. “We celebrate every new building, every ribbon cutting, but where’s the recognition for the reef that died last year or the mangrove that protects us from floods?” she asked. She likened current development practices to “capitalism dressed up as progress,” emphasizing that the true cost of this approach is already evident in the form of droughts, heatwaves, and increasingly severe hurricanes.
Joining Lashley at the summit, Selwin Hart, Special Advisor to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action, echoed her concerns, noting that the Caribbean is disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing minimally to its causes. “The region is paying the highest price for a crisis it did not create,” he said. However, Hart praised the Caribbean’s resilience and innovation, citing initiatives such as solar microgrids, mangrove restoration, and climate-smart farming as examples of regional leadership.
Both speakers called for urgent action and unity, urging young people to continue advocating for sustainable solutions and amplifying the Caribbean’s voice on the global stage. “The world is watching the Caribbean,” Hart said. “Let us transform vulnerability into leadership and injustice into momentum for change.”
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Bouva en Todd bespreken versterking van Suriname–Guyana-corridor
Suriname and Guyana have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and infrastructural domains. This pledge was solidified during a high-level meeting between Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business, and Cooperation (BIS), Melvin Bouva, and his Guyanese counterpart, Hugh Todd, on Tuesday in Georgetown. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the International Business Conference, held in Guyana from October 14 to 16. The meeting built upon the recent visit of Guyanese President Irfaan Ali to Suriname’s President Jennifer Simons in September. Both ministers focused on actionable steps to implement the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform (SDCP), which serves as the framework for collaboration between the two nations. Key areas of discussion included regional integration, trade, energy, agriculture, and tourism. The ministers highlighted the strategic significance of the Suriname-Guyana corridor, which is increasingly recognized as a vital economic zone linking the Caribbean with Latin America. They pledged to actively support this development in partnership with the private sector and multilateral organizations. Specific projects addressed during the meeting included the Corantijn Bridge initiative, the revitalization of the Canawaima Ferry Service, energy cooperation with a focus on sustainable alternatives, the reactivation of the Border Commission, and the operational resumption of SDCP committees by November 1. These committees will focus on agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and energy. Both ministers agreed to hold regular consultations to monitor progress and evaluate the implementation of SDCP agreements. In a joint statement, they described the meeting as “constructive and forward-looking,” emphasizing stability, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth in the region. Minister Bouva was accompanied by Minister Andrew Baasaron of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation, Ambassador Liselle Blankendal, Deputy Director Shailesh Ramsingh, and Second Secretary Lucille Starke-Esajas.
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Colton T releases new single with Afro-beat flair, “Naija”
Colton T, a rising artist, has unveiled his latest single, ‘Naija,’ a dynamic fusion of Afrobeat and Caribbean rhythms that has quickly captured the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide. The track, released on October 15, 2025, has ignited a wave of excitement on social media, with fans creating dance challenges and sharing their interpretations of the song. Produced by ICM Records, ‘Naija’ was written by Colton T and arranged by Kirk Blackmoore, blending Afrobeat percussion with smooth Caribbean elements to create a unique auditory experience. The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Farrell and filmed in Dallas, features Chiamaka, a model and co-host of Rolling Stone Africa, with behind-the-scenes footage by Evan Jones offering a glimpse into the creative process. The song’s infectious energy and soulful melodies emphasize cultural unity, resonating deeply with listeners. ‘Naija’ serves as a precursor to Colton T’s upcoming EP, ‘Ambience,’ a five-track project slated for release in early 2026. The single’s viral dance snippet has significantly contributed to its rapid rise in popularity, solidifying Colton T’s position as a trailblazer in the music industry.
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UPP Affirms Strong Support for CARICOM’S Position as a Zone of Peace
The United Progressive Party (UPP) has unequivocally endorsed the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) declaration designating the region as a Zone of Peace. In a formal statement released on Tuesday, the party emphasized its unwavering support for maintaining regional stability through peace and mutual respect. The UPP underscored its opposition to any actions that could jeopardize this vision, reaffirming its dedication to fostering harmony within the Caribbean and beyond. The statement highlighted the longstanding diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States, as well as the cordial relations with Venezuela. The UPP also recalled the collaborative initiatives established during its previous administration, showcasing its commitment to international cooperation. The release concluded with a resounding call for peace, signed by key party leaders including Political Leader Hon. Jamale Pringle, Chairman Dame D. Gisele Isaac, General Secretary Sen. Shawn Nicholas, and Treasurer Leon George.
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GFA President appointed to FIFA Technical Development Committee
Marlon Glean, President of the Grenada Football Association (GFA), has been appointed to the FIFA Technical Development Committee for the 2025–2029 term. This decision, ratified by the FIFA Council in October 2025, underscores Glean’s exceptional contributions to international football governance and highlights Grenada’s growing prominence in the global football arena. The appointment aligns with FIFA’s statutes and governance regulations, further solidifying Glean’s role as a leading advocate for football reform, innovation, and equitable development, particularly in resource-limited yet talent-rich regions like the Caribbean. Glean also serves on Concacaf’s Football Development Committee, where he influences regional strategies for advancing the sport across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
In a statement, Glean expressed his honor in assuming this responsibility, emphasizing the committee’s pivotal role in shaping global football development strategies. He pledged to ensure that the perspectives and aspirations of smaller nations, including Grenada, are prominently represented in these discussions.
Glean’s appointment is a significant milestone for Grenada and the Caribbean region. The FIFA Technical Development Committee plays a crucial role in guiding the evolution of football through training methodologies, grassroots initiatives, elite youth development, and coaching education. Glean’s involvement will create a direct link between Grenada’s football ecosystem and FIFA’s strategic frameworks, ensuring the nation’s visibility and influence in global technical development decisions.
This development not only elevates Grenada’s credibility on the international football stage but also aligns with the GFA’s broader objectives. These include expanding grassroots programs, accelerating the growth of women’s football, enhancing technical capacity in coaching and officiating, and unlocking investments in local infrastructure and talent.
Glean’s appointment coincides with his increasing presence on the global football development circuit. He has recently participated in the World Football Summit in Hong Kong and is scheduled to speak at Soccerex Miami, the Africa Football Business Summit in Kenya, and the Sports Investment Forum in Saudi Arabia in May 2026. These engagements position Grenada as a thought leader in advocating for resilience, equity, and innovation in football’s future.
Glean, a former national team player, legal professional, and international development executive, brings over two decades of expertise in sports law, compliance, and governance to the committee. Prior to his GFA presidency, he served as FIFA’s Regional Development Manager for the Caribbean, overseeing football development in 22 nations.
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New fuelling facility enhances services for yachting community
Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina, in collaboration with Sol Grenada Ltd, has officially launched a state-of-the-art marine fuelling system at Port Louis Marina. The inauguration ceremony, held on 10 October 2025, marked a significant milestone in enhancing marine services in Grenada. The new system is designed to cater to the needs of modern superyachts and sailing vessels, solidifying Grenada’s reputation as a top-tier destination in the southern Caribbean. The event was attended by key stakeholders and dignitaries, including Zara Tremlett, General Manager of Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina; Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority; Frank Redhead, CEO of the Grenada Ports Authority; Collin Francis, General Manager of Sol EC Ltd; and Hon. Lennox Andrews, Acting Prime Minister. The ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting and a symbolic “mock fill” demonstration, showcasing the system’s efficiency. Tremlett emphasized the facility’s role in providing world-class amenities, while Francis highlighted Sol’s commitment to safety and quality. The Grenada Tourism Authority sees the development as a boost to the island’s tourism economy, encouraging longer stays and increased spending.
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PM Dickon Mitchell praises progress at Grenada National Resort
Grenada’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Dickon Mitchell, led an official inspection of the Grenada National Resort (GNR) construction site on October 2, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s tourism and investment landscape. Developed by Heng Sheng International, GNR stands as the largest Citizenship by Investment (CBI)-approved project in Grenada, strategically located in the island’s picturesque northern region near Levera Beach. The resort is poised to set a new standard for luxury tourism and residential investment in the Caribbean, featuring world-class amenities such as a 500-suite ocean-view hotel, an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones II, a casino complex, and premium apartments and villas available for purchase. Accompanied by senior government officials, including Finance Minister Dennis Cornwall and Investment Migration Agency Chairman Richard Duncan OBE, Prime Minister Mitchell expressed his admiration for the project’s rapid progress. “I visited in March, but I didn’t expect such significant advancements in just six months. This project will have a transformative impact on local employment and tourism,” Mitchell stated. Heng Sheng Chairman Yuanfa Li guided the delegation through the site, highlighting key developments, including the completion of the golf club structure, the foundation of the casino, and the ongoing construction of the golf course. The first 10 floors of Hotel Tower 1 have been completed, with the 11th floor underway. Li emphasized the team’s commitment to efficiency and quality, projecting the topping out of Hotel Tower 1 by year-end. The visit underscored the strong partnership between the Grenadian government and Heng Sheng, aimed at delivering a landmark project that will redefine luxury tourism and create a lasting economic legacy for Grenada.