Haiti is grappling with the dual impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, which has disrupted daily life and posed significant threats to the nation’s agricultural sector. Sunrise Airways announced the cancellation of all flights to and from Haiti on October 28 and 29, affecting key destinations such as Miami, Port-au-Prince, Les Cayes, Cap-Haïtien, and Providenciales. The airline has pledged to update passengers on the resumption of services once conditions improve. Meanwhile, the storm’s potential to devastate crops has raised alarms, with over 330,000 farm households at risk. Given that more than half of Haiti’s population faces acute food insecurity, safeguarding national food production is critical. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Haiti’s Ministry of Agriculture are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to assist affected families. In addition to these challenges, projections indicate that 720,000 people in southern Haiti will be impacted by Melissa. The World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with the government and partners, has already provided advance payments to 47,000 vulnerable individuals and plans to expand food and financial aid. The international community has also expressed concern, with the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) offering solidarity and support to Haiti and other affected nations. Amid these crises, a glimmer of hope emerges as Shelenchie Jeanty, a Haitian woman, becomes the first to pass the bar exam in Chile, a milestone celebrated by the Ministry of Haitians Living Abroad (MHAVE) as a source of pride for the diaspora.
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Credit union league backs new deposit insurance law
The Barbados Co-operative and Credit Union League Limited has firmly defended the upcoming Deposit Insurance Bill, asserting that it will provide essential protections for over 240,000 credit union members. The legislation, which has been in development for over a decade, aims to safeguard members’ deposits in the event of institutional failure. General Manager Tracia Pounder emphasized that the bill offers insurance coverage of up to $25,000 per member, ensuring financial security for savers. Despite the League’s strong endorsement, concerns have emerged from smaller credit unions, which argue that the new requirements could impose significant challenges. A board member from a smaller credit union, speaking anonymously, revealed that many institutions were caught off guard by the Financial Services Commission’s (FSC) communication of the pending legislation, leading to confusion and fear. These smaller entities, often operating on thin margins, face difficulties meeting the bill’s profitability and equity criteria. Pounder acknowledged these concerns but highlighted the FSC’s ongoing remediation efforts to assist credit unions in achieving compliance. She stressed that the bill is designed to protect members, not burden institutions. Following the League’s annual general meeting, President Kemar Cumberbatch described the bill as a milestone in ensuring parity with commercial banks’ deposit protections. He emphasized that the legislation aims to build trust and responsibility within the credit union sector, safeguarding members’ life savings. While the debate continues, the League remains committed to advocating for member protection and encouraging public awareness of deposit insurance benefits.
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Rats force closure of Deacons Primary
The Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) has issued a stark warning following a rat infestation at Deacons Primary School in St. Michael, which forced an abrupt closure on Monday. The incident has reignited calls for routine inspections and industrial-level deep cleaning across all public schools to ensure a safe learning environment. Parents were reportedly notified via WhatsApp messages around 10 a.m. to collect their children, though the reason for the early dismissal was not immediately disclosed. Later, officials from the Ministry of Health’s Vector Control Unit, the Ministry of Educational Transformation, and the BUT confirmed the closure was due to rodent sightings on campus. Julian Pierre, first vice-president of the BUT and head of its health and safety committee, revealed that the school had been grappling with environmental issues for over a week. Last week, concerns were raised about the school’s hall, prompting an inspection by the Vector Control Unit and the Ministry of Health. Industrial cleaning was subsequently conducted in the affected areas, but problems persisted. On Monday, another rodent sighting led teachers to evacuate students from the compromised area. Pierre emphasized that teachers have long been concerned about the general cleaning standards in public schools. He argued that schools should not wait for infestations or environmental incidents to justify deep cleaning, noting that while households undergo regular spring cleaning, schools often lack such proactive measures. He called for a structured maintenance regime, including scheduled inspections, regular cleaning, and water quality testing, in collaboration between the Ministries of Educational Transformation and Health. Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles confirmed that rodent droppings were identified at the school, prompting industrial cleaning. She assured that the school had been sanitized and would reopen on Tuesday. Pierre highlighted that rodent issues are not unique to Deacons Primary, urging a national focus on school hygiene and surrounding environments. He also stressed the importance of rodent-proofing measures, such as meshing and door sweeps, to prevent future infestations. The BUT has been advocating for systemic changes to ensure schools maintain a clean and safe environment for students and staff.
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VES-voorzitter Debipersad: Nieuwe schuldendeal biedt ademruimte; duidelijkheid nodig
Steven Debipersad, Chairman of the Association of Economists in Suriname (VES), has described the government’s attempt to restructure its foreign debt as ‘a timely and positive step.’ However, he cautioned that the government’s communication regarding this operation has been insufficient and confusing. ‘The idea is sound, but the government must clarify the specifics of the agreement, how it fits into the budget, and its long-term implications,’ Debipersad stated in an interview with Starnieuws.
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Young farmers, new brands driving innovation
Barbados is witnessing a remarkable resurgence in its pig farming sector, driven by a concerted effort to reduce reliance on imported pork and enhance domestic sales. The Barbados Pig Farmers’ Association has reported a significant increase in membership, with numbers more than doubling as producers unite to strengthen their market position. This growth is fueled by government-backed financing, innovative product development, and an influx of younger farmers under 30 joining the industry.
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COE warns of continued rainfall and flood risks until Thursday
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Juan Manuel Méndez-Gracia, the director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), issued a stark warning on Tuesday regarding the continuation of heavy rainfall across the country until Thursday. The forecast, provided by the National Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET), underscores the urgency for residents to remain prepared, especially in provinces under red and yellow alerts. Méndez emphasized that the already saturated soil significantly heightens the risk of landslides and flash floods, posing threats to both urban and rural communities. He urged the public to stay vigilant and maintain contingency plans, even if temporary weather improvements occur, to safeguard lives and property. The COE continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating efforts to mitigate potential disasters.
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Cap
Nestled in the historic city of Cap-Haïtien, the Justinien University Hospital (HUJ) has been a beacon of medical excellence and humanitarian service since its establishment in March 1890. This iconic institution, with its distinctive white and turquoise facade, stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to public health. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture, HUJ offers a comprehensive range of services, including maternity care, pediatrics, laboratories, and surgical facilities, all united by a singular mission: to save lives, alleviate suffering, and advance healthcare in northern Haiti. In a bold step toward sustainability, the hospital has embraced modernity by installing solar panels on its roofs, reflecting its commitment to energy autonomy and resource efficiency. The hospital’s diverse team of students, doctors, nurses, and technicians work collaboratively, embodying a shared vocation to serve humanity. From its vantage point, HUJ overlooks the city and the sea, symbolizing a bridge between science and community, care and hope. More than just a healthcare facility, it is a school of life, a sanctuary for the sick, and a guiding light for the people of Haiti.
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Cuban ambassador confident in UN support to end U.S. embargo
In a recent interview with La Red Habla, Ángel Arzuaga, Cuba’s ambassador to the Dominican Republic, expressed unwavering confidence that the international community will continue to back Cuba’s annual United Nations resolution advocating for the termination of the U.S. embargo. The resolution, titled ‘Necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,’ is set to be presented at the UN General Assembly on October 28-29. This marks the continuation of a tradition that began in 1992. Arzuaga condemned the embargo as an aggressive and unjust policy that severely hampers Cuba’s economic and social progress while violating the fundamental rights of its citizens. He underscored the embargo’s economic toll, equating one month of its enforcement to the cost of Cuba’s solar energy investment plan and four months to the price of all national public transportation buses. The ambassador also criticized U.S. efforts to diminish international support for the resolution. Reflecting on last year’s vote, Arzuaga highlighted that 187 countries supported ending the embargo, with only the U.S. and Israel opposing it. He reiterated Cuba’s dedication to peaceful dialogue, regional stability, and solidarity with oppressed communities, including Palestinians. Arzuaga extended gratitude to nations like Mexico for their steadfast opposition to the blockade and affirmed Cuba’s commitment to defending just causes and fostering international collaborations, particularly in medical initiatives.
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Faced with the imminent impact of Melissa, be alert, show solidarity, and remain disciplined
In a heartfelt message to the people of eastern Cuba, President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, head of the National Defense Council, called for unity and discipline as Hurricane Melissa threatens the region. Drawing inspiration from Fidel Castro’s resilience during Hurricane Flora, Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of protecting lives above all else. He urged citizens to remain alert, act with solidarity, and adhere to safety protocols to mitigate the storm’s impact. Hurricane Melissa, a highly dangerous system with destructive winds and heavy rainfall, has prompted extensive preparations, including evacuations, resource safeguarding, and the reinforcement of critical infrastructure. Despite these efforts, the President acknowledged the unpredictability of such events and stressed the need for personal responsibility. He advised families to prioritize the safety of children and elderly relatives, keep essential supplies on hand, and maintain communication. The President’s message underscored the Cuban spirit of mutual care and resilience, urging citizens to avoid complacency and work together to minimize vulnerabilities. As Melissa approaches, the nation remains focused on preserving life and minimizing destruction.
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Security : Successful sea rescue operation
In a swift and coordinated effort, the Haitian Coast Guard successfully carried out a critical sea rescue operation on the night of October 24, 2025. The operation was launched after the landing craft ‘PRINCESS SAM ASIA,’ registered under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, was reported adrift off the coast of Léogâne. Responding promptly, the Coast Guard dispatched two shuttles to the scene. Through meticulous coordination, all crew members were rescued unharmed, and the vessel was safely towed to Petit-Goâve by 2:00 a.m., with assistance from the tactical boat ‘Dragon.’ This operation highlights the Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety. However, authorities have issued a stern reminder to the public about the severe risks of navigating during extreme weather conditions, especially with Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, intensifying sea dangers. The Haitian Hydrometeorological Unit (UHM) and the Haitian Maritime and Navigation Service (SEMANHA) have urged strict adherence to safety guidelines, emphasizing the importance of avoiding sea travel during such hazardous periods. The Coast Guard remains on high alert to safeguard lives at sea, but public caution is equally vital in ensuring safety.