October 2025 promises to be a celestial extravaganza for stargazers, featuring a series of astronomical events that will light up the night sky. The month kicks off with the Super Harvest Moon, the first of three consecutive supermoons, which will appear larger and brighter than usual due to its closer proximity to Earth. This rare occurrence, typically seen in September, will grace the skies on October 6, marking a unique start to the autumn season. Following this lunar spectacle, the Draconid meteor shower will peak on October 8-9. Although it is a minor shower, producing up to 10 meteors per hour, the nearly full moon may obscure some fainter streaks, but brighter meteors will still be visible. The Orionid meteor shower, one of the best of the season, will take center stage on October 22-23. Coinciding with the new moon, the dark skies will enhance visibility, with up to 20 shooting stars per hour expected. Named after the constellation Orion, the meteors will radiate from this iconic star pattern, offering a breathtaking display for night sky enthusiasts. These events, set against the backdrop of crisp autumn nights, provide a perfect opportunity for people of all ages to marvel at the wonders of the universe.
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VIDEO: Antigua & Barbuda PM condemns Cuba’s continued inclusion on list of countries sponsoring terrorism
Antigua & Barbuda PM condemns Cuba’s continued inclusion on list of countries sponsoring terrorism
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Antigua and Barbuda joins regional push to improve disaster shelters
Antigua and Barbuda has emerged as a key player in the Caribbean’s efforts to bolster disaster preparedness by joining the region’s inaugural Shelter Technical Working Group. This initiative, spearheaded by the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), seeks to revolutionize the management, resourcing, and operation of shelters across the Caribbean. The twin-island nation’s participation ensures that its unique challenges, such as coastal vulnerability and rural community protection, are addressed in regional disaster response strategies. Officials from the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) are actively contributing to weekly meetings, sharing insights from their experiences with hurricanes and tropical storms. These discussions are shaping innovative approaches to shelter design, relief mobilization, and community engagement. Antigua and Barbuda also benefits from pre-positioned emergency supplies stored at CDEMA’s logistics hub in Barbados, including tents, solar lamps, and hygiene kits. The initiative has established a WhatsApp network and an online platform to disseminate training, technical guidance, and emergency updates. Future sessions will focus on preventing gender-based violence, providing cash support to displaced families, and developing sustainable housing solutions. By participating in this groundbreaking effort, Antigua and Barbuda is not only enhancing regional disaster response but also fortifying its own preparedness as hurricane season intensifies.
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APUA graduates new cohort of emerging leaders
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has successfully concluded its fourth Leadership and Development Programme, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to cultivate a robust internal leadership pipeline. This initiative, integral to APUA’s strategic vision, aims to enhance organizational efficiency, innovation, and public service delivery by equipping employees with advanced leadership skills.
The eight-week intensive program encompassed a comprehensive curriculum, including leadership principles, performance management, budgeting, labor relations, and project management. Additionally, participants engaged in specialized workshops focused on customer service, effective communication, and team-building strategies. These sessions were designed to foster both personal and professional growth, preparing graduates for greater responsibilities within the organization.
Rodney Simon, APUA’s Human Resources Manager, emphasized the transformative nature of the program, urging graduates to view it as the foundation of a lifelong leadership journey. Facilitators also commended the participants for their dedication and remarkable progress throughout the course.
APUA’s leadership initiative underscores its commitment to succession planning and organizational resilience. By investing in employee development, the utility aims to ensure a steady flow of capable leaders who can drive innovation and maintain high standards of service to the public. This program not only benefits the participants but also strengthens APUA’s ability to meet future challenges effectively.
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Barge Purchase Advances Dredging Projects at St. John’s and Crabbs Harbours
Antigua and Barbuda is taking decisive steps to enhance its port infrastructure by acquiring a barge to support ongoing dredging projects at St. John’s and Crabbs harbours. This initiative is a critical component of the nation’s broader port expansion strategy, aimed at boosting cargo handling and cruise ship capacity. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized the necessity of the barge during a recent Cabinet press briefing, stating that previously procured equipment cannot function without it. Two barges have been identified, and the government is currently evaluating the most cost-effective option without compromising quality. The dredging efforts are part of a comprehensive upgrade that includes the introduction of a US$6.2 million mobile harbor crane. Additionally, the government plans to relocate the Coast Guard to Camp Blizzard, freeing up valuable waterfront space for future development. These upgrades are expected to enhance operational efficiency, attract more business, and contribute to national revenue growth, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a competitive shipping and tourism hub in the Eastern Caribbean.
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Antigua and Barbuda issues excessive heat warning
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has declared an Excessive Heat Warning as the nation grapples with soaring temperatures. The alert, active daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Sunday, highlights that the heat index could climb to a scorching 43°C (109°F). Light winds provide minimal relief, with the most hazardous conditions anticipated in the early afternoon. Health officials emphasize the severe risks posed by the extreme heat, including heat stroke, and urge immediate medical attention for symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic conditions, are particularly at risk. Authorities are advising residents to remain indoors during peak heat hours, wear lightweight clothing, stay hydrated, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable. Hospitals and clinics are on high alert, while schools and workplaces are being encouraged to limit outdoor activities and ensure access to shade and water. Officials have underscored the gravity of the situation, likening the heatwave’s potential lethality to that of hurricanes or floods. The public is urged to take all necessary precautions to safeguard their health during this extreme weather event.
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U.S. preparing options for military strikes on drug targets inside Venezuela, sources say
The United States is reportedly preparing military options to target drug traffickers within Venezuela, according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions. The potential strikes, which could involve drone attacks on drug labs and key figures in trafficking networks, mark a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s campaign against illegal narcotics and its strained relations with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. While no final decisions have been made, the plans are being actively considered and could be implemented within weeks. The U.S. has already conducted strikes on Venezuelan boats suspected of carrying drugs, though evidence supporting these claims remains limited. President Donald Trump has emphasized his commitment to using all available resources to combat drug trafficking, accusing Maduro of failing to curb the flow of illegal substances from Venezuela. The administration has also increased pressure on Maduro, offering a $50 million reward for his arrest and exploring regime change as a potential objective. Despite diplomatic efforts involving intermediaries from Middle Eastern countries, tensions remain high. Critics warn that military action on Venezuelan soil could provoke severe diplomatic and political repercussions, including increased domestic support for Maduro. The U.S. has bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying ships, aircraft, and personnel, signaling its readiness to act. However, the long-term sustainability of such a deployment remains a concern. The situation underscores the complex interplay between drug enforcement, international diplomacy, and geopolitical strategy in U.S.-Venezuela relations.
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Antigua and Barbuda backs UN role despite Trump criticism
Antigua and Barbuda has firmly countered former US President Donald Trump’s disparaging remarks about the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), emphasizing the organization’s critical role in addressing global challenges. Speaking at the UNGA in New York, Trump dismissed the assembly as ineffective, labeling it a platform for ’empty words’ and controversially calling climate change a ‘con job.’ However, Antigua and Barbuda’s Cabinet Spokesperson, Maurice Merchant, defended the nation’s active participation in the UNGA, particularly under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne. Merchant highlighted the importance of the UNGA for small island nations like Antigua and Barbuda, especially in advocating for climate action and other pressing issues. He noted that the country’s voice is instrumental in shaping international discourse, citing ‘very successful’ outcomes from bilateral talks. Prime Minister Browne is attending UNGA80 alongside Foreign Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, and Ambassador Walton Webson, underscoring the nation’s commitment to global collaboration. The Caribbean nation’s stance reflects its determination to uphold multilateralism and address shared challenges, despite criticisms from global leaders.
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illegal firearm confiscated, three arrested in Exuma
In a significant security incident at Exuma International Airport, three individuals were arrested on Friday, September 26, 2025, following the discovery of an illegal firearm during routine luggage screening. The incident unfolded shortly after 7:00 a.m. when the trio approached the security checkpoint. During the screening process, a concealed firearm was detected in a black bag belonging to one of the men. Law enforcement officials were promptly summoned to the scene, where they conducted a thorough search of the bag in the presence of its owner. The search resulted in the confiscation of an illegal firearm along with ammunition. The suspects, aged 56, 50, and 44, were subsequently taken into custody. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, with further details expected to be released as the case progresses.
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Prime Minister Gaston Browne Wraps Up One of His Most Dynamic UNGA Engagements, Advocating Fearlessly for Climate Justice, Human Dignity, Reparations, and a More Equitable Global Order
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has concluded a highly impactful week at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), where he fervently advocated for climate justice, human dignity, reparations, and a more equitable global order. Describing the week as one of the busiest and most significant of his leadership, Browne emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of marginalized nations, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
At the heart of Browne’s agenda was the urgent call for climate justice. He highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on SIDS, which contribute less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions yet face severe consequences such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Browne criticized the rhetoric that dismisses climate change as a hoax, stating, ‘Our lived reality tells a starkly different story. It is one of coastal erosion, intensifying hurricanes, and livelihoods under threat.’ He reiterated the need for major polluters to honor their commitments to climate finance, loss and damage compensation, and technology transfer.
Browne also championed the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) and the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for SIDS, which will serve as a global hub for knowledge-sharing, innovation, and policy development to enhance resilience and sustainable development across SIDS.
In addition to climate justice, Browne emerged as a global advocate for mental health, emphasizing it as a human rights issue. Reflecting on his personal experiences with a mother who faced mental health challenges, he announced plans to host a Global Mental Health Summit in 2026 in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Browne also focused on global health equity, hosting the United Nations Friends of Vision High-Level Meeting, which underscored the importance of eye health in development. He announced that Antigua and Barbuda will host a Global Eye Health Summit in 2026, further positioning the country as a leader in advancing global health equity.
Furthermore, Browne renewed calls for reparatory justice for the enduring impacts of slavery and colonialism, arguing that equitable global development cannot be achieved without addressing historical injustices. He also advocated for the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, urging respect for the region’s sovereignty and stability.
During UNGA80, Antigua and Barbuda achieved significant diplomatic milestones, including six visa-waiver agreements and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Republic of Palau and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. These agreements aim to facilitate easier travel, deepen people-to-people links, and expand opportunities in trade, education, and tourism.
Reflecting on his week at UNGA80, Browne stated, ‘This week has been about lifting up the causes that matter most — the survival of small states, the dignity of our people, and the creation of a fairer, more peaceful, and more compassionate world.’