Grenada played a pivotal role in the Sub-Regional Validation Workshop on the Caribbean Cocoa Industry Development Agenda, held on November 13 and 14, 2025, at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad. Organized by the Cocoa Research Centre (CRC) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, the event united cocoa-producing nations across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Trinidad and Tobago for two days of strategic collaboration, technical exchanges, and roadmap refinement. Over the past year, FAO and CRC have collaborated with Caribbean countries to identify challenges in the cocoa sector and outline a structured roadmap for sustainable development. This initiative involved technical assessments, consultations with farmers and institutions, and analysis of genetic material, field practices, and post-harvest systems. The workshop provided a platform for countries to review findings, discuss challenges, and shape national priorities within a regional framework. Grenada’s delegation included Andrew Hastick, General Manager of the Grenada Cocoa Association; Kason Charles, Agronomist with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and Cooperatives; and Shadel Nyack Compton, Managing Director of Belmont Estate, representing the private sector. They engaged in sessions on planting material pipelines, genetic improvement, climate resilience, pest and disease management, cocoa quality, cadmium mitigation, and market opportunities for fine-flavour cocoa. These discussions underscored the need for coordinated efforts to enhance cocoa production and value-added development in Grenada. Cocoa is a cornerstone of Grenada’s agricultural sector, renowned for its fine-flavour exports and the burgeoning tree-to-bar industry. Local processors are expanding production of chocolate, cocoa powder, and artisanal products, highlighting the importance of strengthening production systems, increasing output, and improving quality to support rural livelihoods, export earnings, and tourism. Hastick emphasized the workshop’s value in assessing Grenada’s current position and identifying areas for urgent focus, such as improving field practices, farmer support, and processing capacity. Charles highlighted the need to enhance local capacity, attract youth, and foster innovation, while Nyack Compton expressed gratitude for the CRC and FAO’s leadership and reaffirmed Grenada’s commitment to building a resilient cocoa industry. The Grenada team presented a national cocoa roadmap prioritizing the restoration of over 2,000 acres of abandoned cocoa lands, innovation in farm management, and expanding value addition. This initiative aims to double national production and achieve a long-term vision of 1,000 metric tonnes. Grenada remains dedicated to advancing a modern, competitive cocoa industry, leveraging its heritage, expertise, and potential to secure a thriving future for the sector.
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Young Saint Lucian U23 team finish 4th in EC Volleyball
Saint Lucia concluded their campaign in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship in fourth place, marking a one-position improvement from their 2023 performance. Despite a promising start with two consecutive victories, the team faced a challenging streak, losing their next four matches. The tournament, held at the YMCA in St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, wrapped up on Sunday, November 16. Dominica emerged as the champions, defeating hosts Antigua & Barbuda 3-1 in a thrilling final (25-15, 20-25, 25-17, 25-19). Meanwhile, Grenada secured the bronze medal after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Saint Lucia in the third-place playoff (21-25, 25-16, 23-25, 25-14, 15-12). This marked a significant improvement for Saint Lucia, who had previously suffered a 3-0 defeat to Grenada in the preliminary rounds. Although the team missed out on a podium finish, individual players shone brightly. Captain Daniel Mayers-James was recognized as the tournament’s best scorer, while Peter Emmanuel earned the title of best first middle blocker. With a young squad featuring players as young as 14 and 15, Saint Lucia remains optimistic about their prospects in the next edition of the competition in 2027, especially after notable victories over defending champions St Vincent & the Grenadines and Anguilla.
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Grenada celebrates marine heritage and sustainability
The 4th Annual Dive and Conservation Festival in Grenada has wrapped up another successful edition, marking a week-long celebration of the island’s marine biodiversity, sustainable tourism, and community-driven conservation initiatives. The festival kicked off with an opening ceremony at Mount Cinnamon Resort, attended by sponsors, partners, and participants, all united by their passion for environmental stewardship. Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), emphasized the festival’s mission to showcase Grenada’s marine beauty while fostering education and awareness about conservation. St Bernard highlighted the importance of collective efforts in preserving the island’s marine ecosystems for future generations. The week featured a series of immersive activities, including a sea moss farming demonstration, a dive at the “World Adrift” sculpture park in Carriacou, and an encounter with the endangered Grenada frog at Grand Etang. These experiences underscored the interconnectedness of conservation, innovation, and sustainability. The festival also hosted “Conservation Conversations,” a conference that brought together students, sustainability experts, and conservationists for meaningful dialogue. A screening of the documentary “Open Season,” which chronicles efforts to protect Grenada’s sea turtle population, was a key highlight. Stacey Liburd, CEO of the GTA, praised the festival’s impact, noting Grenada’s commitment to protecting its marine ecosystems and biodiversity. The event concluded with mangrove restoration and birdwatching activities at Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk, where participants worked alongside local conservationists to plant seedlings and observe the area’s diverse wildlife. The Dive and Conservation Festival reinforced Grenada’s reputation as a premier dive destination and a leader in sustainable marine tourism.
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Pierre Rallies SLP for Final Push, Warns of ‘Nastiest Politics’ Ahead
In a vibrant display of political fervor and spiritual unity, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) hosted its National Gospel Concert last night at the Vieux Fort Recreation Park. With the general election just two weeks away, the event served as both a rallying cry for supporters and a platform to celebrate recent achievements, including the handover of the St Jude Hospital. SLP candidates shared the stage with local gospel artists, delivering impassioned speeches that praised party leader Philip J. Pierre and warned of intensified political rhetoric in the coming days. Lisa Jawahir, the SLP candidate for Castries South-East, emphasized the significance of the hospital handover, stating, ‘This occasion is bigger than politics,’ while expressing her inspiration drawn from Pierre’s leadership and the resilience of the nation. Pierre himself cautioned supporters about the ‘nastiest politics’ expected from the opposition United Workers Party (UWP), which was simultaneously holding its own rally. He urged SLP candidates to intensify their campaign efforts and highlighted key policies, such as the ‘one university graduate per household’ initiative and free preschool education. The SLP is set to unveil its full manifesto on November 25, ahead of the December 1 election.
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Akelo Andre of Gambles charged with multiple firearm-related offences
In a significant crackdown on illegal firearms, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged 28-year-old Sedeki Akelo Andre from Gambles with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, November 16, 2025, when Narcotics Officers, conducting an operation on Perry Bay Main Road, encountered Andre and conducted a search. During the search, officers discovered a Taurus 9mm Pistol and seven matching rounds of ammunition in his possession. Andre was immediately taken into custody and formally charged. He is scheduled to appear in court to face the charges. This arrest is part of the Royal Police Force’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal firearms and ammunition, which are central to their broader strategy to reduce crime. Authorities are urging the public to report any information related to illegal weapons or suspicious activities to assist in these efforts.
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Illegal Brazilian miners arrested, prosecuted
In a significant operation led by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), supported by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), at least 24 individuals, predominantly Brazilian nationals, have been arrested and are facing prosecution for illegal immigration and mining offenses. Unofficial reports suggest the number of detainees could rise to 28, including two women. Among those apprehended was also a Venezuelan national. The arrests took place on Saturday morning, with the detainees being held at the Mahdia Police Station. Some of the individuals have already appeared in court via Zoom, while others have been transferred to Georgetown. The GGMC is expected to formally charge them with illegal mining activities. During the operation, GDF Colonel Dominic Shepherd emphasized the need for regularizing mining activities and urged all involved parties to cooperate with the GGMC. A relative of one of the detained Brazilians claimed that some of the workers had valid travel documents and were not given an opportunity to explain their situation before being taken into custody. She also mentioned that while a Brazilian company was operating legally in the area, several of its workers were not. This crackdown highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Guyana in regulating its mining sector and addressing illegal activities.
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Mexican President for talks between the US and Venezuela
In a recent statement, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized her country’s commitment to peace and dialogue, particularly in the context of escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Responding to former US President Donald Trump’s comments about potential talks with Venezuela, Sheinbaum reiterated Mexico’s stance against invasions and its support for peaceful conflict resolution. ‘We are a country that always seeks peace, dialogue, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. We are not in favor of invasions,’ she declared during her weekly media briefing at the National Palace. Sheinbaum also affirmed Mexico’s willingness to assist in fostering dialogue between the US and Venezuela, stating, ‘Mexico will always be there to help in any possible way. Dialogue must always take place. We must seek talks and peace everywhere.’ Trump’s remarks coincided with the deployment of the US Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier to the Caribbean Sea, a move widely interpreted as a display of military strength. Additionally, the US initiated provocative military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago, near Venezuela’s borders, while continuing operations against suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s refusal to recognize Nicolas Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate president, maintaining a hardline stance against his administration.
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Babonneau, Dennery complete U13 Grassroots semis lineup
The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association/Laborie Cooperative Credit Union Under-13 Grassroots Tournament has reached its semifinal stage, with Dennery, Babonneau, Soufriere, and Desruisseaux securing their spots after a thrilling quarterfinal weekend. The matches, held on Saturday, November 15, at the Dennery Playing Field, showcased exceptional performances and intense competition. Dennery triumphed over Laborie, while Babonneau outplayed Choiseul, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal lineup. Dennery faced a previously unbeaten Laborie team, limiting them to 85-8 and confidently chasing the target with 86-4 in just 10 overs. Kivaniel Evans starred for Dennery, taking 2-9 and top-scoring with nine runs. Meanwhile, Babonneau posted 88-5 against Choiseul, with nine-year-old Kaylani William emerging as the standout player, scoring 21 runs and taking 3-19 to secure victory. The semifinals, hosted by Soufriere on November 29, promise to deliver more cricketing excitement.
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Seven Inducted into Cricket’s HPC for Year Three
The Saint Lucia Cricket High Performance Centre (SLCHPC) has unveiled its third cohort of promising cricketers, marking a significant step in nurturing the island’s sporting talent. The announcement was made on November 15 during an induction ceremony held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Spa & Beach Resort. The event celebrated the inclusion of seven new players, including former Saint Lucia Under-17 captain Khan Elcock, Windward Islands youth legspinner Cody Fontenelle, and Mon Repos batter Cody Lesmond. Other inductees are Sacchin Josh Cepal, Kethan Charlemagne, Ephron Charles, and the sole female player, Kanicsher Auguste. The group will undergo intensive training at Mindoo Phillip Park under the guidance of head coach John Eugene and SLCHPC chairman Craig Emmanuel. The SLCHPC, a collaborative effort between the Government of Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Youth Development & Sports and the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association, is partially funded by the National Lotteries Authority. Now in its third year, the initiative continues to provide a dedicated platform for young cricketers aspiring to excel at regional and international levels. The induction ceremony also honored the 2024 class, recognizing standout performers such as Shawnil Edward (most disciplined), Selena Ross (most dedicated), Royce Paul (most improved), Bolton Sayers (most outstanding), and Theo Edward (coach’s award). The SLCHPC has already produced notable graduates, including West Indies players Ackeem Auguste, Qiana Joseph, Zaida James, and Nerissa Crafton, as well as West Indies Under-19 stars Tarrique Edward and Selena Ross.
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Open letter of thanks for Lennox Abraham’s national award
In a heartfelt tribute to decades of unwavering dedication, Lennox Abraham has been honored with a national award by the Commonwealth of Dominica. The recognition, bestowed on November 3, 2024, coincides with the 47th anniversary of Dominica’s Independence. Abraham’s remarkable 40-year journey of selfless service has left an indelible mark on the nation. The award was granted following a recommendation by a close friend and colleague, who expressed profound gratitude to the government for their swift and decisive action. Despite some critics labeling the recommendation as politically motivated, the authorities recognized the genuine spirit behind the appeal. This honor not only celebrates Abraham’s contributions but also underscores the importance of good governance and unity in building a just and peaceful society. The article, originally published on DNO, was republished to amplify this message of appreciation and inspiration.