On the occasion of Maroon Day, the Progressive Reform Party (VHP) of Suriname has expressed its deep appreciation for the historical struggle and contributions of the Maroons to the nation’s freedom. The VHP emphasized that this day is not only a moment of remembrance but also a call to address persistent inequality and challenges in the country’s interior regions. Maroon Day, observed annually on October 10 since 1974, commemorates the 1760 peace treaty between the Okanisi tribe and colonial rulers in Paramaribo, marking the end of the brutal hunt for escaped slaves. This date, proposed by Maroon historian André Pakosie in consultation with tribal leaders, symbolizes both the peace achieved and the heroic resistance of Maroon ancestors against slavery and oppression. The VHP highlighted the Maroons’ enduring fight for justice and freedom, pledging continued efforts to resolve land rights issues critical to Maroon communities. The party acknowledged the difficult living conditions faced by many in the interior, where communities maintain rich traditions and cultural diversity. Progress under former President Chan Santokhi’s administration, including improvements in water, electricity, and education, was noted, with the VHP reaffirming its commitment to enhancing quality of life in these areas. Maroon Day remains a powerful symbol of freedom, resistance, and cultural richness, inspiring Surinamese society to this day. The VHP extended warm wishes to the entire Surinamese community, especially its Maroon brothers and sisters, for a meaningful and joyous celebration.
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APUA says power will be restored to affected areas but safety first
Recent adverse weather conditions have led to power disruptions across several areas of Antigua. The island’s electricity service providers have confirmed that repair teams are on high alert and will be deployed to affected locations as soon as safety permits. The authorities have urged residents to remain patient and assured them that efforts are underway to restore power swiftly. In a statement, the utility company emphasized their commitment to resolving the issue promptly while prioritizing the safety of both residents and repair crews. Meanwhile, the company also took the opportunity to promote their digital marketing services, inviting businesses to advertise on their widely visited news platform. For inquiries, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected].
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Cramming for the national exam — ULP style
In North Leeward, the air is thick with the sounds of heavy machinery and the sight of sudden activity. Long-neglected roads are being graded, hardcourts are under construction, and materials are being dumped at various sites. Students are being called in groups to receive laptops and scholarships, while arrowroot farmers, who have been struggling since the 2001 volcanic eruption, are finally receiving relief. Amidst all this, there is talk of hotel development, even though similar projects announced years ago in other parts of the country have yet to materialize. What ties all these developments together? It’s the ULP government’s frantic efforts to prepare for the upcoming general elections, a phenomenon akin to a student cramming for a national exam. Just as the education policy promotes students to secondary school regardless of their mastery of the required knowledge, the government seems to be adopting a similar approach—hoping to scrape through by making last-minute efforts. However, this strategy raises questions about the government’s ability to implement a holistic development policy that benefits everyone consistently over time, rather than in the final weeks of its political life. The analogy extends further: just as students who cram often fail to master the subject matter, a government that relies on last-minute efforts may not be equipped to perform at the required level. The closer these developments are to the election, the more they are expected to leave a lasting impression on voters. Yet, this short-term political strategy may not be enough to bridge the development gap with other countries in the region. As Independence Day approaches, more announcements of such initiatives are widely anticipated.
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Antigua’s UWI Five Islands Campus to Lead Regional Blue Economy Collaboration Under New MoU
In a landmark development for Caribbean regional cooperation, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) has inked two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at bolstering fisheries management and advancing the Blue Economy. The first agreement, signed on September 30, 2025, during the Sixteenth Special Meeting of the CRFM Ministerial Council in Saint Kitts and Nevis, formalizes a partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This historic accord was executed by Dr. Marc Williams, Executive Director of the CRFM Secretariat, and H.E. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA), an annual event organized by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat. The MoU, spanning 2025 to 2028, aims to enhance governance, management, and resilience in fisheries, while fostering youth and women empowerment, economic development, and research collaboration in the sector. Dr. Williams emphasized the importance of formalizing the long-standing informal relationship between the CRFM and OECS, which includes eight shared member states. Dr. Jules highlighted the agreement’s potential to elevate collaboration to new heights, particularly in areas such as safety at sea, insurance for fishers, and the integration of agriculture and fisheries. Earlier in September, the CRFM also signed a five-year MoU with the University of the West Indies (UWI), represented by Professor Carl Justin Robinson, Campus Principal of the UWI Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda. This agreement focuses on academic and educational collaboration in blue economy development, marine spatial planning, climate change adaptation, and ecosystem resilience. The Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), a joint initiative involving the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, UWI, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities, will play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts. These agreements mark a significant step forward in regional cooperation, aiming to create sustainable and inclusive growth in the Caribbean’s fisheries and Blue Economy sectors.
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All schools closed Friday in Antigua and Barbuda
In response to an ongoing Flash Flood Warning, the Ministry of Education in Antigua and Barbuda has declared that all public schools will remain closed on Friday, October 10. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff, comes as the twin-island nation braces for severe weather conditions. Private educational institutions have also been urged to suspend classes for the day, aligning with the government’s precautionary measures. This announcement underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing public safety during natural disasters. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the impending floods.
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Minister Warns of Growing Health Threats from Diabetes and Falling Vaccination Rates
Senator Michael Joseph, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, has issued a stark warning about the escalating health challenges in Antigua and Barbuda. The nation is grappling with a dual burden: a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a concerning decline in vaccination rates globally. Speaking on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion,’ Joseph emphasized that the Caribbean region currently leads in the prevalence of NCDs, which are now the primary cause of death. He highlighted high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, strokes, and cancer as the most pressing concerns, noting that these conditions are placing immense financial strain on the country’s health budget. ‘Unless we find mechanisms to address these issues, the financial demands will create a health crisis worse than the current situation,’ he stated. Joseph also expressed alarm over the global trend of declining vaccination coverage, particularly in developed nations where school vaccination requirements are being rolled back. He warned that this could lead to the resurgence of infectious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and polio in the Caribbean. Given Antigua and Barbuda’s reliance on tourism and its strong travel connections, the senator stressed the heightened risk of imported communicable diseases. He revealed that the government is collaborating with regional and international health partners, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), to bolster prevention and treatment strategies. Joseph urged households to reconsider their stance on vaccinations, emphasizing the critical need to protect public health and avoid further strain on the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
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Grapes, Green Bananas and Pears saw major price increases in July, CPI reveals
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for July 2025, released by the Statistics Division under the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance, reveals significant price increases across various categories, particularly in food and beverages. The overall CPI rose by 1.2% year-on-year, with the Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages index increasing by 1.0%, reversing a 1.0% decline in June. The All Items Less Food and Energy index also saw a 1.3% rise over the same period. The Food index surged by 1.4%, driven by notable increases in the Fruits subcategory (+14.6%), Meats and Meat Products (+4.8%), and Bread and Cereals (+3.3%). Among fruits, Red Seedless Grapes experienced the highest spike at 66.7%, followed by Green Bananas and Pears, both up by 16.2%. Other contributors to the food price hike included Milk, Cheese, and Eggs (+1.9%) and Sugar, Jams, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+1.1%). On a monthly basis, the CPI for July 2025 increased by 1.4%, with the Food index rising by 1.0%. Key drivers of this monthly increase were Sugars, Jam, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+3.6%), Milk, Cheese, and Eggs (+3.0%), and Fish and Seafood (+2.4%). The All Items Less Food and Energy index also rose by 1.6%, influenced by significant increases in Recreation and Culture (+6.5%) and Transport Services (+20.4%). The CPI methodology, which measures inflation by tracking price changes of goods and services consumed by households, relies on monthly and quarterly data collection from supermarkets and service providers. For detailed insights, the full CPI report for July 2025 is available on the Statistics Division’s official website.
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Health Records to Go Digital Across All Clinics, Joseph Announces
Antigua and Barbuda is making significant strides in modernizing its healthcare infrastructure by implementing a digital system for patient records across all public clinics. Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment, announced the initiative during a recent appearance on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion.’ This project is a key component of the government’s Smart Health Facilities program, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
The initiative involves the integration of patient information using the Selma software, ensuring seamless access to medical records across clinics nationwide. Senator Joseph emphasized that this system will allow healthcare providers to access patient data, including lab results and doctor reports, regardless of the clinic’s location. This innovation aims to enhance communication between hospitals and clinics, addressing gaps in the primary care system.
The digital upgrade is part of a broader strategy to strengthen primary healthcare, following a regional health cooperation agreement signed between Antigua and Barbuda and PAHO. The government envisions a fully connected healthcare network, linking major medical centers such as the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. This transformation is expected to improve patient care, streamline healthcare delivery, and create a more resilient health system.
By reducing the need for patients to repeat their medical history at multiple facilities, the initiative promises to make healthcare faster and more efficient. This digital transition marks a pivotal step in Antigua and Barbuda’s journey toward a modernized and responsive healthcare system.
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VIDEO: Antiguan wins all expense paid trip to Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival
Antiguan wins all expense paid trip to Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival
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Man and Woman Shot During Alleged Robbery at Fort James Beach
A man and his female companion are currently hospitalized after being shot during an alleged robbery attempt at Fort James Beach late Thursday night. According to ABS News, the incident occurred around 11:30 pm when the couple was in a rented vehicle on the beach. Approximately three gunmen approached them, and as the man attempted to drive away, the assailants opened fire. The man sustained a gunshot wound to his right shoulder, while the woman was shot in one of her hands. Despite their injuries, the man managed to drive both himself and his companion to the hospital, where they are now receiving medical attention. Reports indicate that the vehicle bears at least three bullet marks. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or Crimestoppers at 800-8477.