The Government of Grenada, in collaboration with the Grenada Development Bank (GDB), has unveiled a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs. The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) and GDB recently formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Youth in Business Fund. This program is designed to provide concessional loans, grants, and technical support to young individuals, with a particular focus on agribusiness ventures. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to foster youth entrepreneurship, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Permanent Secretary Kim Frederick represented MOYS, while General Manager Royston Cumberbatch signed on behalf of GDB during the ceremony held at the bank’s headquarters in St. George’s. The fund targets individuals aged 18 to 35, including unemployed and underemployed youth, fishers, agricultural workers, and agroprocessors. It will support businesses in areas such as apiculture, hydroponics, vertical farming, crop and livestock production, agro-processing, and climate-smart agriculture. Beneficiaries can access loans with a fixed interest rate of 1%, repayment terms of 5–7 years, and a maximum amount of EC$30,000, alongside grants of up to EC$3,000. Permanent Secretary Frederick emphasized the program’s potential to empower youth, create jobs, and enhance Grenada’s agricultural output. General Manager Cumberbatch echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of youth as the backbone of the economy and the importance of providing them with practical financial and business support. To qualify, participants must register with the Youth in Business Project and complete mandatory training. This initiative marks a significant step toward sustainable economic development and youth empowerment in Grenada.
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Police Seize Suspected Stolen Items in Multiple Operations
In a significant move to combat criminal activities, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has successfully seized a substantial amount of suspected stolen items. Over the past 72 hours, the police executed a series of coordinated search warrants across multiple communities on the island. The operations led to the confiscation of various goods, including garden tools, electrical appliances, light fixtures, and household items. Several individuals are currently under interrogation as part of the ongoing investigations. The police have urged victims of break-ins and larceny to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913 to assist in identifying and reclaiming their property. Additionally, the Police Administration has emphasized the importance of securing homes and businesses and promptly reporting any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or by calling 911. This crackdown highlights the police’s commitment to maintaining public safety and reducing crime in the region.
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McIntyre to public: Take advantage of voter confirmation today
Dominica has embarked on a landmark voter confirmation process, a pivotal step in the nation’s electoral reform agenda. The initiative, which commenced on October 15, 2025, aims to transition eligible voters from the existing electoral register to a new one under the Electors Act of 2025. Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre has called on Dominicans, both at home and abroad, to actively participate in this historic process, emphasizing its significance in modernizing the voting system and enhancing democratic participation. The confirmation process, conducted across 48 centers in Dominica, is exclusively for individuals listed on the May 2025 voters’ register. Overseas confirmation is not permitted. Applicants must present original identification documents, such as a valid Dominican passport, driver’s license, or social security card, along with a witness registered in the same polling district. The process involves multiple steps, including document verification, data entry, and issuance of a confirmation receipt. Enrollment officers, appointed by the Chief Registering Officer, oversee the process, with a hotline available to address discrepancies. The initiative, which has been years in the making, reflects Dominica’s commitment to electoral integrity. Despite delays and public scrutiny, the government has prioritized meeting the October 15 deadline, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey.
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Government pharmacies to shut down on October 17
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has announced a temporary closure of all government pharmacies on October 17 to allow staff to participate in a departmental training session. In an official press release, the ministry urged the public to plan ahead and refill their medications prior to the closure to prevent any disruptions in their healthcare routines. For urgent pharmaceutical needs during this period, individuals are advised to seek assistance at their nearest health facility. The ministry assured the public that normal pharmacy operations will resume on October 20, following the completion of the training. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the skills and efficiency of healthcare professionals, ensuring better service delivery in the long term.
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PM Browne: Antigua and Barbuda Will Not Host Foreign Military Assets
In a definitive statement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that the twin-island nation has no intention of hosting foreign military installations or engaging in any form of military action. This announcement came ahead of a scheduled visit by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey, who is set to meet with regional leaders to discuss security cooperation. Browne emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is committed to maintaining its current stance of not hosting military bases, a position he described as aligned with the nation’s interests and values. The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown highlighted that Holsey’s visit underscores Washington’s dedication to enhancing regional security and stability in collaboration with Eastern Caribbean partners. Meanwhile, Grenada has confirmed it is reviewing a U.S. request to establish a radar system at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, signaling a nuanced approach to military cooperation in the region. Browne’s remarks reflect a broader Caribbean perspective on balancing sovereignty with international partnerships.
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30-Day Residency, Mandatory Interviews and Biometrics Among Features of New CIP Bill
In a significant move to enhance the integrity of its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), Antigua and Barbuda has introduced sweeping reforms. The changes, reviewed by a parliamentary select committee on Tuesday, include stricter residency requirements, mandatory biometric data collection, and enhanced due diligence measures. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who chaired the session, emphasized that these reforms aim to align the nation’s CIP with global standards set by major jurisdictions such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.
One of the most notable updates is the extension of the residency requirement for new citizens from five days to 30 days over a five-year period. While some critics argue for even longer stays, Browne acknowledged the challenges faced by busy businesspeople who may not have the flexibility for extended stays. Additionally, all new applicants will now be required to submit biometric data, necessitating the establishment of biometric centers across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Existing CIP citizens will also need to provide biometric details during passport renewals.
Further measures include mandatory applicant interviews and strengthened background checks through the Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC). Browne also urged member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to harmonize their CIP implementation timelines to prevent arbitrage opportunities. He proposed a unified deadline of November 1 for all participating countries—Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Grenada—to pass and enforce the new legislation.
The bill, already endorsed by regional heads of government, is expected to undergo its second and third readings in Parliament later this week, with Senate consideration to follow. These reforms reflect Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to bolstering international confidence in its CIP while ensuring transparency and compliance with global best practices.
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U.S. SOUTHCOM Commander Meets Antigua’s Prime Minister and Defence Chief
In a significant move to enhance regional security, Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), held high-level discussions this week with Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Telbert Benjamin. The meetings, held in Antigua, focused on deepening bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and the Caribbean nation. Key areas of discussion included combating transnational organized crime, curbing illicit trafficking, and bolstering border security across the region. Admiral Holsey underscored the importance of the partnership, describing it as vital to maintaining stability and security in the Caribbean. SOUTHCOM reiterated its commitment to collaborating with Caribbean nations to disrupt criminal networks that pose threats to both regional and U.S. interests. This visit is part of SOUTHCOM’s broader strategy to strengthen defense alliances in the Caribbean through initiatives such as joint training, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance programs, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown. The discussions mark a continued effort to address shared security challenges and foster long-term cooperation in the region.
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VWPU schort beraad op – onderwijs aan universiteit hervat
The ongoing deliberations of the Scientific Personnel Union (VWPU) at the Anton de Kom University of Suriname (AdeKUS), which began on October 7, have been temporarily paused following a request from Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, Dirk Currie. This decision was made during an emergency meeting of the union’s general assembly. Meanwhile, educational and examination activities at AdeKUS have resumed. The VWPU had received an invitation from the ministry on October 9 for discussions, which took place on October 13. The meeting, attended by ministerial staff and university management representatives, concluded with an agreement to collaboratively work on long-term solutions for the scientific staff’s conditions. A negotiation team comprising experts from the ministry and the university has been formed to address these issues. Minister Currie requested the pause in union deliberations while talks are ongoing, a request the VWPU has honored. The union emphasized that discussions have been constructive and remain focused on sustainable improvements within the university.
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Honorebel, Alison Hinds, Ackah Dan for Roll Your Waist Remix
KINGSTON, Jamaica — International recording artist Honorebel has made a bold entry into the world of Soca with his debut track, *Roll Your Waist Remix*, featuring the iconic Alison Hinds and acclaimed producer/musician Ackah Dan. Released under Phantom Music Group/Zojak Worldwide, this remix builds on the phenomenal success of the original *Roll Your Waist* single, which amassed over 2.3 million YouTube views in just two weeks. The original music video, directed by Honorebel and Shadrac Milhomme, marked Honorebel’s 39th directorial venture. Alison Hinds, celebrated as the ‘Queen of Soca’, elevates the remix with her signature flair, blending elements of her global hit *Roll It Gal* into the track. Her commanding vocals and vibrant energy infuse the song with an irresistible Caribbean spirit, making it a standout collaboration. For Honorebel, this remix represents a significant milestone in his career. Renowned for his international hits and genre-spanning collaborations, his first Soca endeavor showcases his artistic versatility. ‘I see and hear a carnival hit. This song embodies the energy of Soca, the excitement of carnival, and the unity of Caribbean culture,’ Honorebel remarked. Producer Ackah Dan, whose roots span Antigua, Ghana, and Jamaica, brings his signature Afro-Caribbean fusion to the remix. Known for his ability to blend soulful melodies, modern electronic textures, and ancestral rhythms, Ackah Dan’s contribution cements *Roll Your Waist Remix* as both a Soca anthem and a cross-cultural masterpiece. Fans can anticipate the remix’s inclusion in Honorebel’s upcoming album, *Winner Circle*, set for release in February 2026, followed by his 15th studio project in summer 2026.
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High interest ahead of 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament
The Sir Henry Morgan Anglers Association has officially launched the 62nd Annual Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament, setting the stage for one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated sportfishing events. The tournament, scheduled to take place from October 22 to 25, 2025, at the Ole’ Marina in Port Antonio, Portland, promises four days of world-class fishing, community engagement, and camaraderie. The launch event, held on October 9 at 100 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica, was marked by reflections on last year’s success and optimism for the upcoming competition. Chairman Maxim Rochester highlighted the impressive catch of 26 marlin in 2024, averaging nearly two per participating boat, and expressed confidence that this year’s event, timed with the moon phase, could yield even greater results. Sterling Asset Management Ltd., the title sponsor, reaffirmed its decade-long commitment to the tournament, emphasizing its alignment with values of sportsmanship, community, and environmental respect. A unique feature of the event is the Canoe Tournament, which provides a platform for traditional fishermen to showcase their skills, fostering local participation and inclusivity. Rochester also emphasized the association’s focus on generational transition, aiming to attract younger members and more women to leadership roles. With promising weather forecasts and growing excitement, the 62nd edition of the tournament is poised to deliver thrilling competition and strengthen the bonds between professional anglers, local fishermen, sponsors, and the community.