In a recent rally held in Layou, Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar outlined a series of ambitious initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural and fisheries sectors in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Speaking to supporters of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), Caesar emphasized the party’s commitment to establishing a ‘blue school’ to train young fishers in longline fishing and operate a dedicated fishing fleet if re-elected for a sixth term. Additionally, the ULP plans to set up an abattoir for livestock farmers and expand buying depots in key locations such as Langley Park, Lauders, La Croix, Vincy Fresh at Diamond, and Belmont. These measures are designed to enhance the competitiveness of local farmers and fishers both regionally and globally. Caesar, who has led the agriculture ministry since 2010, highlighted the establishment of the Eastern Caribbean Food Traders Ltd., which aims to purchase produce from local farmers, ensuring they can compete effectively in international markets. The minister also underscored the ULP’s achievements in education, healthcare, and disaster recovery, including the successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the La Soufriere volcanic eruption. Caesar expressed confidence in the ULP’s ability to secure another term, citing the party’s track record of delivering tangible benefits to the people of SVG. He urged supporters to remain steadfast in their commitment to the ULP, emphasizing the party’s role in advancing the nation’s development and improving the livelihoods of its citizens.
作者： admin
-
FLASH : HOPE/HELP Law between optimism and concern in the Haitian textile sector
The Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity Through Partnership for Encouragement (HOPE) laws and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) law, which expired at the end of September 2025, have left the Haitian textile sector in a state of uncertainty. These laws, initially approved by the U.S. Congress in 2005 and 2010, allowed Haiti to export clothing to the U.S. market duty-free, accounting for 90% of the country’s exports. The benefits also extended to the Dominican Republic, where textile mills produced fabrics and yarns sent to Haiti for garment production. In 2018, the sector employed 62,000 people, but due to security concerns, this number has plummeted to 26,000, with at least 15 factories closing. Fernando Capellan, president of the Industrial Development Company (CODEVI), remains optimistic about the laws’ renewal within the next 90 days, citing support from the White House and the program’s impact on the U.S. supply chain. However, Haiti’s Minister of Trade and Industry, James Monazard, expressed concern over the alarming situation, warning that without renewal, many companies in the subcontracting sector—a cornerstone of Haiti’s economy—could face closure. Political disagreements in the U.S. Congress have further delayed any decision, with the Trump administration expected to make a final call by December 19, 2025. The future of Haiti’s outsourcing sector hangs in the balance as stakeholders await a resolution.
-
Roast pork, porcelain, or crabs: The stories found on the Duarte Highway
The Juan Pablo Duarte Highway, stretching from Santo Domingo to San Fernando de Monte Cristi, serves as more than just a transportation route—it is a vibrant artery of commerce and culture. Spanning six provinces, the highway is lined with vendors and artisans who have turned its bustling edges into thriving marketplaces. These individuals, often rooted in family traditions, showcase the rich diversity of regional products and crafts that define the Dominican Republic. Alejandro, a 27-year-old vendor, has spent over 15 years perfecting his trade of selling chicharrón, a popular pork-based delicacy. ‘I started at nine, helping with plates, and now I handle everything from cutting pigs to serving customers,’ he shared. Similarly, Ariel, a seasoned crab seller, has been offering jaibas (blue crabs) for more than two decades. He attributes his success to his father, who introduced him to the business. ‘This is how I make my living,’ Ariel remarked, highlighting the generational continuity of his craft. Beyond food, the highway is also a hub for artisans like Criselyn Cabreja, whose passion for crafts led her to establish ‘Hermanos Cabreja,’ a business specializing in handmade items. ‘I’ve always loved creating things with my hands,’ she said, reflecting on her journey from childhood hobbyist to successful entrepreneur. Rufino Hidalgo, another artisan, has spent over 20 years in the woodcraft business, crafting kitchen utensils and cockfighting cages. ‘These pieces are made entirely by hand, and the demand is always high,’ he explained. Together, these vendors and artisans embody the resilience and creativity of the Dominican people, transforming the Juan Pablo Duarte Highway into a living testament to their heritage and livelihoods.
-
Ali says new govt transaction apps will guarantee accountability
In a significant move to bolster transparency and efficiency in government transactions, President Irfaan Ali announced the upcoming launch of four innovative applications designed for the private sector to interact with the government. The announcement was made during the commissioning of the SOMA Hotel & Restaurant, a flagship project by TOTALTEC Group, located in Houston, East Bank Demerara. President Ali emphasized that these apps would enable a ‘transparent, productive, and efficient’ process for conducting government business, while also ensuring accountability among officials through digital tracking mechanisms. The system is engineered to detect and prevent malpractices, reinforcing trust in public administration. A collaborative meeting between government representatives and the private sector is scheduled in six weeks to officially roll out the apps. President Ali highlighted that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to accountability and leveraging technology for sustainable growth. The SOMA Hotel & Restaurant, developed by TOTALTEC, is set to create 60 to 100 direct and indirect jobs, supporting local suppliers and aligning with Guyana’s workforce development goals. The project is part of a broader vision to expand affordable, high-quality hospitality services across Guyana, catering to business travelers and industrial clients. TOTALTEC, a Guyanese-owned company established in 2016, has been instrumental in advancing local content and sustainable development, having trained over 6,000 individuals for careers in the oil and gas industry.
-
This is how the border looked like: images of the Army Commander’s tour of the border zone
Major General Jorge Iván Camino Pérez, Commander-in-Chief of the Dominican Republic Army, recently embarked on a comprehensive inspection tour of four provinces along the nation’s border with Haiti. The visit aimed to assess border security measures, infrastructure projects, and military operations in the region. The tour commenced at the “El Rodeo” Fortress in Jimaní, Independencia province, where General Camino Pérez addressed troops stationed at the 14th Infantry Battalion. He then met with local governor Ms. Mercedes Novas to discuss regional security and governance. During his time in Independencia, the General inspected the Mal Paso border crossing and reviewed the progress of the border fence construction, a project managed by the Army. He also visited Detachments La 248 and La 40, engaging with soldiers tasked with border security, and conducted an aerial inspection of the Tierra Virgen detachment, which is currently undergoing reconstruction. The tour continued in Elías Piña province, where General Camino Pérez oversaw the construction of a new heliport at the 11th Infantry Battalion headquarters. He later held discussions with provincial governor Ms. Migdalis De los Santos. The visit concluded with an inspection of the El Carrizal-Belladere border crossing and the surrounding perimeter fence. In Dajabón province, the General visited the 10th Infantry Battalion and met with provincial governor Ms. Severina Gil. He also toured the border crossing and perimeter fence, engaging with soldiers stationed at the Liberation Post. The final leg of the tour took place in Montecristi, where General Camino Pérez assessed the facilities at the San Fernando Fortress, home to the 15th Infantry Company. Plans are underway to elevate this unit to battalion status, enhancing military presence and control in the area. The General concluded his visit by meeting with provincial governor Ms. Leissa Cruz and inspecting the perimeter fence and security posts. Throughout the tour, General Camino Pérez emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, avoiding illegal activities, and treating undocumented migrants with dignity during their detention at the border.
-
Cabral Lagoon is dying: photos and videos show its alarming reality.
Laguna de Cabral, also known as Rincón, situated in the Neiba Valley between the provinces of Independencia and Barahona, is experiencing a critical decline in its water volume. Local communities have raised concerns, attributing this environmental crisis to the activities of the Central Sugar Consortium (CAC). The lagoon, a protected area, is now facing one of the worst droughts in its history, as documented by photojournalist Chaimy Soriano. Her visual report captures the stark transformation of this once-thriving ecosystem, now reduced to a shadow of its former self. The images reveal cracked earth, dwindling water levels, and the broader ecological impact on the region. This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for environmental conservation and sustainable practices to preserve vital natural resources.
-
VIDEO: Senator Lamin Newton Graduates From UWI FIC
Senator Lamin Newton has been widely praised for his recent academic achievement, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with Second Class Honours from the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Trade led the accolades, highlighting Newton’s accomplishment as a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Education Minister Hon. Daryll Matthew took to social media to express his admiration, stating, ‘You did it, my friend. Congratulations. I pray that your resilience and commitment to learning will be an inspiration to others.’ Prime Minister Gaston Browne also joined in the celebration, encouraging Newton and fellow graduates to ‘continue to reach new heights,’ while expressing pride in their achievements. Minister E.P. Chet Greene and staff extended their congratulations to Newton and other graduates, including Atiya Fabian, Briana Anthony, and Sharee Philip, for their exemplary dedication and academic excellence. Permanent Secretary Dr. Clarence Pilgrim emphasized that their success reflects resilience and national pride, underscoring the transformative power of education. The Ministry further noted that Newton’s achievement serves as both a personal milestone and a source of inspiration for young Antiguans and Barbudans to pursue higher education and contribute to the nation’s development. The widespread recognition of Newton’s accomplishment highlights the importance of education in fostering personal growth and national progress.
-
Twee minderjarigen ingesloten voor gewapende beroving
In a recent development, law enforcement authorities have apprehended two 17-year-old suspects, identified as H.K., alias ‘Boeger,’ and G.T., alias ‘Papie,’ on charges of fraud and armed robbery. The duo, who were taken into custody, have reportedly confessed to their crimes, according to a statement released by the police Public Relations department.
-
Sprint sensation Naomi London signs with PUMA
The world of cinema mourns the loss of Diane Keaton, the iconic and Oscar-winning actress, who passed away at the age of 79. Keaton’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, marked by her remarkable versatility and unforgettable performances. She rose to fame with her Academy Award-winning portrayal of the stylish and charming Annie Hall in Woody Allen’s 1977 romantic comedy, a role that cemented her status as a Hollywood legend. Her unique acting style, characterized by authenticity and depth, set her apart from her contemporaries. Penelope Gilliatt, in a New Yorker profile, praised Keaton for her originality, noting that she transcended the flustered ingénue archetype often assigned to her. Beyond comedy, Keaton showcased her dramatic prowess in films like Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather series, where she played Kay Adams, the troubled wife of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino). Her second Oscar nomination came for her portrayal of radical socialite Louise Bryant in Warren Beatty’s 1981 epic, Reds. Keaton’s career continued to flourish with critically acclaimed performances in Marvin’s Room (1996) and Something’s Gotta Give (2003), earning her two more Oscar nominations. A multifaceted artist, Keaton also excelled as a director, producer, photographer, and bestselling memoirist. Despite never marrying, she leaves behind a legacy as a devoted mother to her two adopted children. In 2017, she was honored with the American Film Institute’s Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her enduring impact on the film industry.
-
Dr. Padgett Henry Awarded Honorary Doctorate by UWI Five Islands
Renowned Caribbean philosopher and sociologist Dr. Padgett Henry was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of the West Indies (UWI) during its 2025 graduation ceremony. The event, held at the House of Restoration Ministries in Antigua, celebrated Henry’s groundbreaking contributions to Africana philosophy and Caribbean political thought. Born in Montserrat and raised by Antiguan parents, Henry accepted the honor virtually, calling it one of the highest accolades of his life. He expressed deep gratitude, stating, “There is no other university that I wanted an honorary doctorate from than the University of the West Indies. This is the real deal. This is the best.”
Dr. Henry, a professor emeritus of sociology and Africana studies at Brown University, has spent decades exploring the Caribbean’s intellectual independence and cultural richness. His seminal work, *Caliban’s Reason*, established Caribbean philosophy as a globally recognized tradition. Additionally, he founded the *Antigua and Barbuda Review of Books* and co-founded the Antigua and Barbuda Studies Association. The university’s public orator praised him as “an intellectual anchor in Africana philosophy,” bridging “history and hope, memory and freedom, culture, theory, and practice.”
In his address, Henry reflected on the evolving global landscape, urging graduates to confront challenges such as climate change, inequality, and the decline of traditional systems. “My generation is now exiting the stage of history to make room for you,” he said. “You must ensure that as the world changes, the Caribbean does not fall through the cracks.” He emphasized the importance of excellence in scholarship and citizenship, calling for intergenerational collaboration to preserve the region’s intellectual and social achievements.
Henry also warned against the rise of authoritarianism, advocating for the Caribbean to remain steadfast in its democratic traditions and critical thought. “The future will test your ideals,” he cautioned. “But do not lose your hope — it is your fire, your fuel, the light that will guide you when the path is unclear.” The ceremony also marked a milestone for UWI’s Five Islands Campus, celebrating its largest graduating class of 195 students. Dr. Henry joins a prestigious list of UWI honorary graduates whose work has profoundly shaped Caribbean identity and scholarship.