The Dominican Republic has successfully restored electricity to nearly the entire national grid following a widespread blackout that plunged much of the country into darkness and sparked protests in several cities. The power outage, caused by a failure in transmission lines on Tuesday, affected key areas including the capital Santo Domingo and the popular tourist destination Punta Cana. Energy Minister Joel Santos Echavarria confirmed in a statement that all power generation plants are now operational, with the electrical transmission system functioning at full capacity and meeting 96% of national demand. The blackout led to severe traffic disruptions and the suspension of metro services in Santo Domingo, forcing passengers to evacuate. Protests erupted in Santiago and San Pedro de Macorís, with residents burning tires in frustration over the prolonged lack of electricity. Local media reported several arrests during the unrest. The Energy Ministry has launched an investigation into the cause of the outage, with the minister cautioning against premature conclusions of sabotage. Frequent power cuts remain a persistent issue in the Dominican Republic, often attributed to inadequate maintenance, system breakdowns, and illegal connections.
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Antigua and China sign agreement for solar powered street lights
In a significant move toward sustainable development, Antigua and Barbuda has inked a landmark agreement with China to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure. The deal, signed during the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Belém, Brazil, includes the provision of 1,500 solar-powered street lights and 200 residential photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage system (ESS) units. Ambassador Diann Black-Layne, Director of the Department of Environment, represented Antigua and Barbuda in signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment. This initiative marks a pivotal step in the Caribbean nation’s renewable energy transition, aligning with its broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and bolstering climate resilience. The solar street lights are expected to enhance public safety and visibility in communities while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering electricity costs for local authorities. Meanwhile, the residential PV and ESS systems will empower households to generate and store clean energy, fostering energy independence and ensuring stability during power outages caused by extreme weather events. Ambassador Black-Layne emphasized that this partnership highlights the importance of international collaboration in tackling the global climate crisis and reflects China’s ongoing commitment to supporting small island developing states (SIDS) in achieving their sustainable development and energy transition objectives.
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Epstein alleged Trump ‘knew about the girls’: Democrats
WASHINGTON, United States — Democrats unveiled a series of emails on Wednesday that allegedly indicate former President Donald Trump was aware of Jeffrey Epstein’s sexual abuse activities. The emails, released by the House Oversight Committee, suggest Epstein claimed Trump “knew about the girls” involved in his sex-trafficking operations. Trump has consistently denied any knowledge of or involvement in Epstein’s crimes, which led to the financier’s 2019 suicide in federal prison while awaiting trial. The emails, addressed to Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell and author Michael Wolff, have reignited controversy over Trump’s ties to Epstein, despite no criminal accusations against the former president. In one 2019 email, Epstein reportedly wrote that Trump had asked Maxwell to stop her activities, implying his awareness. Another 2011 email to Maxwell referenced an unnamed victim who spent time with Trump at Epstein’s residence. Democrats are pushing for the full release of Epstein’s case files, arguing the emails raise serious questions about Trump’s knowledge of Epstein’s crimes. The Justice Department has previously stated that Epstein’s so-called “client list” does not exist, dismissing conspiracy theories that have fueled divisions within Trump’s MAGA base. Epstein’s 2008 plea deal, arranged by a prosecutor who later joined Trump’s cabinet, has also been criticized for its leniency. The ongoing scrutiny of Trump’s relationship with Epstein continues to cast a shadow over his administration.
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Mbappe says France football team ‘to remember’ Paris terror victims
As France prepares to face Ukraine in a crucial World Cup qualifier, the national football team is taking a moment to honor the victims of the 2015 Paris terror attacks, which occurred a decade ago. On November 13, 2015, a series of coordinated attacks in Paris, including near the Stade de France during a friendly match between France and Germany, claimed 130 lives. The Bataclan concert hall, where the US band Eagles of Death Metal was performing, was the site of the deadliest incident, while one person died near the stadium in Saint-Denis due to suicide bombings. Despite the chaos, the match continued, with France securing a 2-0 victory. France captain Kylian Mbappe emphasized the significance of the anniversary, stating, ‘We wanted to remember all those who have lost loved ones, who have been affected, hurt, whether mentally or physically.’ The team aims to pay tribute to the victims during the match, with a minute of silence planned before kickoff. Coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the emotional weight of the occasion, noting, ‘There is an obligation to remember what happened, but there is a football match to be played too.’ A win against Ukraine would secure France’s qualification for next year’s World Cup with one game remaining.
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Digicel reports 57% of mobile sites now back in operation
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Digicel Jamaica has been unwavering in its commitment to reconnect communities across the island. The telecommunications giant has been working tirelessly to restore services, making significant strides in bringing customers back online. As of Wednesday, approximately 57% of mobile sites have been restored, serving 80% of mobile users. Additionally, 89% of residential customers on the Fibre to Home network and 75% of business customer points of presence (POPs) have regained service.
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Guyana and Suriname to raise US$1 billion for infrastructure projects
In a landmark initiative, seven Amazon nations—Guyana, Suriname, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru—have launched the Amazonia Forever Facility for Cities and Resilient Infrastructure. This ambitious project aims to mobilize over $1 billion to enhance water security, promote clean energy, and build resilient urban infrastructure across the Amazon region. The initiative was formally announced during COP30 in Belém, Brazil, under the leadership of the Amazonia Network of Ministers of Finance and Planning, with strong backing from the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB).
The facility will employ innovative financial mechanisms, including blended financing, performance-based concessionality schemes, and credit-substitution guarantees, to support infrastructure projects in urban and peri-urban areas. It also includes technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. Brazil’s Planning and Budget Minister, Simone Tebet, emphasized the dual focus on forest conservation and urban development, stating, ‘This tool enables us to address both environmental and urban challenges, which are critical for the region’s future.’
IDB Group President Ilan Goldfajn highlighted the initiative’s broader impact, noting that ‘building resilient infrastructure protects the 60 million people who call the Amazon home, while creating livelihoods and jobs in cities is the best way to preserve the forest.’ The Amazon region faces significant gaps in water, sanitation, energy, and risk management, with over 70% of its population residing in cities and peri-urban areas.
The initiative has garnered substantial international support. Denmark, Norway, and Sweden have committed to an $800 million guarantee to boost clean-energy projects under the Amazonia Forever program. Additionally, the IDB’s Water Security and Climate Resilience Program, in partnership with the Green Climate Fund, will deploy $162 million for resilient infrastructure projects. The Clean Energy Access Accelerator, supported by the Climate Investment Funds, will provide $215 million to expand clean energy access and promote emerging technologies. The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation has also contributed €6 million to focus on water and sanitation in the Amazon.
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UN food agencies warn of 16 hunger hotspots
ROME, Italy – Two prominent United Nations (UN) food agencies, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), issued a dire warning on Wednesday, highlighting the escalating risk of famine for millions worldwide. The agencies attributed the crisis to severe funding shortages, which are exacerbating already critical conditions in vulnerable regions.
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Respect those who gave their lives for nation
The Remembrance Day parade serves as a solemn occasion to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation, protecting citizens from tyranny. This year, however, marked a notable absence of key political and security figures, including the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, the Homeland Security Minister, and the Commissioner of Police, who traditionally lay wreaths in their official capacities. While the absence of these leaders may have been due to valid reasons, it raises concerns about the diminishing presence of dignitaries at such significant events. The author, Gary Griffith, emphasizes that this ceremony is not merely a military affair but a national observance that requires the participation of all leaders. The Prime Minister, as chair of the National Security Council, and the Opposition Leader, as an alternate commander, hold direct responsibilities over the military. Similarly, the Homeland Security Minister and the Police Commissioner play crucial roles in supporting the Defence Force and protective services. Griffith appeals to those in authority to prioritize this event, dedicating just one hour annually to honor the fallen. Such attendance not only pays respect to past sacrifices but also inspires current members of the Defence Force and protective services, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to those who serve.
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Kairi People hosts Runaway all-inclusive fete on November 12
Kairi People, a renowned event management and promotion company, has unveiled its latest venture, ‘Beats,’ located at the intersection of Tragarete Road and White Street in Woodbrook. This vibrant new venue combines food, drinks, and entertainment under one roof, offering a convenient and accessible hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, ‘Beats’ will function as a ticket outlet for all Kairi People events, further enhancing its utility and appeal. The launch of ‘Beats’ follows the official commencement of Carnival 2026, which was celebrated last Friday at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain.
In preparation for Carnival 2026, Kairi People is set to host its highly anticipated ‘Runaway’ event on November 12 at the Southern Ranch in Debe. The event promises an impressive lineup of soca stars and entertainers, including Voice, Patrice Roberts, D All Starz band, College Boy Jesse, Viking Ding Dong, Mical Teja, The Freetown Collective, Blaka Dan, Sackie, Anika Berry, Sekon Sta, and Yung Bredda. Notably, the top-rated A Team Band will make its debut performance at ‘Runaway,’ with its all-new frontline cast officially launching on November 13 at The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge in St Clair.
These developments underscore Kairi People’s commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences and solidifying its reputation as a leading force in Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant cultural scene.
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Orlando Griffith’s journey back to purpose
After a 20-year hiatus from the art world, Orlando Griffith, known professionally as ‘Morpheus,’ is making a triumphant return with his debut solo exhibition, ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep.’ The exhibition, set to open on November 21 at Arnim’s Art Gallery in Port of Spain, delves into themes of memory, grief, and the profound power of presence. Griffith’s journey back to art was sparked by the loss of his father in January 2022, who, in his final days, affirmed Griffith’s artistic vision. This blessing reignited a dormant passion, transforming art into a medium for healing and rediscovery. Griffith’s creative process is deeply rooted in reflection and gratitude, with each piece serving as a tribute to the time shared with his father. The exhibition features 60 works, including 30 paintings and 30 fine-art photographs, each capturing moments of stillness and presence in Caribbean nature. Griffith’s unique approach to art, which seamlessly blends painting and photography, invites viewers to slow down and observe the often-overlooked beauty of the world around them. The title ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ reflects Griffith’s belief that dreams, both literal and symbolic, continue to live within us even when we’re awake. The exhibition is not just a return to art for Griffith but a lifelong conversation with presence, evolving into a series that explores different aspects of stillness and observation. Griffith’s work is a testament to the quiet, reflective side of Trinidad and Tobago, offering a counterpoint to the high-energy Carnival culture. His advice to emerging Caribbean artists is to build from what feels honest to them, trusting that small beginnings can carry global weight. ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ runs until December 5, with extended viewing hours on Mondays and Wednesdays.