The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has emerged as a pivotal force in addressing homelessness in the Corporate Area, with its Poor Relief Department being hailed as a ‘beacon of hope.’ The department manages two key shelters: the Marie Atkins Night Shelter, operational since 1993, and the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless, which commenced operations in 2022. These facilities provide a structured and dignified environment, offering essential services such as meals, clothing, shelter, and comprehensive medical and mental health care. Donna-Gaye Brady, Acting Inspector of Poor at KSAMC, emphasized the department’s holistic approach, stating, ‘We not only provide meals but also develop rehabilitation programmes tailored to the needs of individuals in our facilities.’ The rehabilitation initiatives include customized treatment plans and upskilling programmes, facilitated through partnerships with organizations like HEART, which assists in job placements post-training. Additionally, KSAMC’s environmental warden programme employs homeless individuals to clean the streets of Kingston, providing them with a source of income and a sense of purpose. This multifaceted approach underscores KSAMC’s commitment to transforming lives and fostering community integration.
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Guyana plans to sell its own crude
In a landmark announcement on October 2, 2025, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali revealed the nation’s ambitious plan to enter the global crude oil trading market. Speaking at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) “Energy Insights” breakfast forum, President Ali outlined a strategic initiative to leverage both local and international expertise to establish Guyana’s presence in the crude oil trade. The plan includes hiring experienced crude oil traders to facilitate knowledge transfer and operational readiness while the country develops its infrastructure and human capital. This move is expected to create significant economic opportunities for Guyana, which is projected to increase its oil production from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.2 million barrels per day by 2030. The initiative will involve collaboration with the domestic private sector and international partners, ensuring Guyana’s ability to trade its crude oil independently in the future. Additionally, Guyana is implementing a competitive bidding system to select a crude marketing firm for its 50% share of profit oil from the Stabroek Block. The announcement coincided with updates from ExxonMobil Guyana, which reported that its Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, One Guyana, is nearing its full capacity of 250,000 barrels per day. ExxonMobil is also advancing plans for its eighth project, Longtail, which holds substantial natural gas deposits and could support multiple industrial developments in Berbice.
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Governor General’s Wife Reveals Health Struggles, Undergoes Multiple Surgeries
Sandra Scotland-Williams, the wife of Antigua and Barbuda’s Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, has opened up about her ongoing health struggles following a series of major surgeries. In a candid Facebook post on Friday, Scotland-Williams revealed that she underwent spinal surgery in the United Kingdom and additional procedures in Trinidad. She disclosed that the surgeries have left her with paralysis in her left hand and arm, and she remains uncertain about the possibility of regaining full functionality. ‘Time will tell if things will ever be ‘normal’ again,’ she wrote. Scotland-Williams also shared graphic details of her medical journey, explaining that her neck was incised from ear to ear to allow neurosurgeons to perform their work. Her vertebrae were replaced with a metal cage, and she continues to battle pulmonary embolism, which has caused significant swelling. Despite these challenges, she remains resilient, stating, ‘We never know what life holds. Always be prepared to deal with whatever curve ball you are thrown. I’m still standing.’ Her heartfelt disclosure has garnered an outpouring of support and well wishes from the public, highlighting her strength and determination in the face of adversity.
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Opposition Says Nurses Left Unprotected
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has launched a scathing critique of the Mottley administration, accusing it of failing to protect nurses and healthcare workers amid escalating threats and violence in medical institutions. In a sharply worded statement on Wednesday, Opposition Senator Andre Worrell, the DLP’s Health and Wellness spokesperson and candidate for St Michael Central, lambasted the government for its inaction, asserting that nurses are being left exposed while the Ministry of Health “hides behind excuses.” Worrell’s remarks coincide with ongoing negotiations between the Barbados Nurses Association (BNA), the Unity Workers Union (UWU), and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, which have entered their second week, focusing on improved security and working conditions. Highlighting recent violent incidents, including the stabbing of a nurse at the Psychiatric Hospital and attacks at Randal Phillips and Glebe Polyclinics, Worrell argued that these events underscore the government’s failure to safeguard frontline healthcare staff. “A nurse being stabbed on duty is not an ‘isolated act of aggression.’ It is the direct consequence of a government that refuses to prioritise the safety of its frontline workers,” he declared. The DLP senator also criticized acting Permanent Secretary Wayne Webster for what he termed a “tepid” statement, issued after Webster warned of potential service disruptions due to a planned BNA meeting. Worrell accused the Ministry of downplaying the severity of the issue and condemned Health Minister Dr Jerome Walcott and Junior Minister Davidson Ishmael for their silence, noting that neither had denounced the violence nor promised immediate corrective measures. “Their silence is an indictment of this government’s neglect of those who care for us in our most vulnerable moments,” he stated. Furthermore, the DLP questioned the government’s spending priorities, pointing to expenditures on cultural events and overseas trips while alleging insufficient investment in healthcare worker safety. “This is not a matter of resources — it is a matter of priorities,” Worrell emphasized, calling the allocation of one security guard per clinic “a disgrace.” The opposition is now urging the Ministry to swiftly implement robust security measures across all health institutions.
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Martinique celebrates Creole Month in October
In the digital age, social media platforms have become pivotal in shaping how information is disseminated and consumed. The act of sharing content—whether through tweets, pins, or posts—has transformed into a powerful tool for engagement and communication. Visual elements, such as images, play a crucial role in capturing attention and enhancing the impact of shared content. For instance, a compelling image can significantly boost the visibility and appeal of a post, making it more likely to be shared across networks. This phenomenon underscores the importance of integrating high-quality visuals with strategic sharing practices to maximize reach and influence in the ever-evolving landscape of social media.
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VIDEO: Cobbs Cross Clinic Nears Completion, Set to Boost St. Paul’s Healthcare Services
The Ministry of Works (MOW) has officially completed the construction of the new Cobbs Cross Clinic, marking a significant milestone in healthcare development for the St. Paul’s community in Antigua and Barbuda. The state-of-the-art facility, now under the commissioning process by the Ministry of Health, is poised to deliver enhanced medical services to residents upon its imminent opening. This project underscores the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Health, highlighting their shared commitment to improving the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. The completion of the clinic is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Health to upgrade healthcare facilities across Antigua and Barbuda. Officials expressed gratitude to the dedicated teams from both ministries whose hard work made this achievement possible. The Ministry of Works has reaffirmed its ongoing support for the Ministry of Health’s extensive healthcare modernization efforts, ensuring that communities nationwide benefit from improved access to quality medical care.
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Airport Departure Escalator Set for Repairs, Director Confirms
Antigua’s primary airport is currently addressing the malfunction of its departure escalator, with officials confirming that repair efforts are in full swing. Joseph Samuel, the Director of Operations, assured the public that technicians from the service provider are on-site and all required components have been delivered. ‘We’re working diligently to restore functionality as quickly as possible,’ Mr. Samuel stated. ‘With all parts now available, we anticipate the escalator will soon be fully operational.’ The malfunction has recently caused delays and inconvenience for passengers, prompting airport authorities to prioritize the repair to ensure seamless passenger flow. The airport remains committed to minimizing disruptions and enhancing the travel experience for all visitors.
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Education Ministry Holds Thanksgiving Service, Marks International Music Day
Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries hosted its annual Thanksgiving Service on Wednesday, blending scripture, music, and reflections under the theme “Colouring Outside the Lines – Harmonised Efforts and Collaboration.” The event, held in recognition of both the school year and International Music Day, brought together students, teachers, officials, and partners at a church service attended by Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams and Education Minister Daryll Matthew. Matthew praised educators, parents, and support staff for their role in shaping national character, urging gratitude and joy in giving thanks. “Education is where we mold character in our young people,” he said, noting the sacrifices of teachers and parents alike. He also highlighted a teacher who has served for 50 years, calling her commitment an example of dedication to the nation. Students played a central role, with performances from schools and scripture readings by top achievers in the Grade 6 National Assessment. The Green Bay Primary School Steel Orchestra provided the offertory music, while the final hymn, “Right Hand of God,” closed the program. Ajani Edwards, a student of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies, delivered the sermon titled “If My Crayon Could Speak.” Using the crayon as a metaphor, he urged the audience to think creatively while working in unity. Drawing from Joshua 1 and Galatians 5, Edwards called for courage, collaboration, and spirit-filled character in education and national life. “The crayon is in your hand. The page is open. What will you create?” he asked. Reverend Marlene Gordon-Reed led prayers for the nation’s educators and students, appealing for strength, vision, and protection for young people. “The youth of Antigua and Barbuda shall stand, shall rise in your righteousness,” she prayed. The service tied its dual themes of education and music to a broader message of harmony, with leaders stressing that unity, innovation, and faith remain central to the country’s future.
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Antigua to Host 2025 Caribbean Dinghy Championship
The Antigua Yacht Club (AYC) is set to host the 2025 Caribbean Dinghy Championship (CDC), a prestigious event sanctioned by the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA), from October 24 to 26, 2025. This four-day regatta will bring together the Caribbean’s finest sailors for a series of competitive races and regional celebrations in Antigua, the sailing capital of the Caribbean. The championship will feature six classes: Optimist, ILCA 4, ILCA 6, ILCA 7, Topper Fusion (double-handed), and RS Venture (double-handed/adaptive), catering to youth, senior, and inclusive sailing categories. Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, AYC Commodore, expressed pride in hosting the event, emphasizing the club’s commitment to competitive sailing and community engagement. Team Antigua, the defending Nations Cup champions, will aim for their fifth title on home waters, supported by local fans. The 2024 edition in St. Maarten saw growing participation from teams across the region, and organizers expect an even larger turnout in 2025. Karl James MBE, OLY, Event Coordinator at AYC, highlighted the CDC as a celebration of Caribbean identity through sport, promising an unforgettable experience both on and off the water. The CDC, governed by the CSA, continues to promote sailing, sportsmanship, and youth development across the Caribbean. For more details, visit the AYC website or contact [email protected].
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Caribbean students invited to enter 2025 YES Competition
Macmillan Education Caribbean has officially announced the commencement of the 2025 Young Environmental Scientists (YES) Competition, set to kick off in October 2025. This initiative invites primary school students aged 7 to 11 and secondary students aged 12 to 18 from across the Caribbean to explore local environmental challenges and devise innovative, actionable solutions aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land. The competition aims to inspire young minds to address pressing ecological issues while fostering creativity and scientific curiosity. Participants are required to form teams of four and prepare a 2–5 minute video report showcasing their research, proposed solutions, and potential impact. Supplementary visuals such as models, posters, or photographs are encouraged to enhance their presentations. Submissions will be accepted until November 28, 2025, and must be submitted via the official competition portal by a teacher, parent, or guardian. The competition will recognize both regional and country-specific winners, with prizes including workshops for entire classes and monetary vouchers redeemable at local bookstores. Katy Corderoy, Marketing Manager at Macmillan Education Caribbean, emphasized that the YES Competition is more than a contest; it is a platform for nurturing environmental awareness, critical thinking, teamwork, and scientific curiosity among Caribbean youth. The initiative seeks to amplify the voices of young environmental scientists and empower them to drive sustainable change in their communities. For further details, including competition guidelines and submission instructions, interested parties can email [email protected] or visit the entry portal at https://forms.microsoft.com/e/AVE58k4uss. Macmillan Education Caribbean eagerly anticipates the innovative ideas and contributions that this year’s participants will bring, celebrating their efforts toward a greener future for the region.