The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society (ABRCS) is commemorating its 84th anniversary, celebrating over eight decades of unwavering service, compassion, and resilience to the nation. Founded in 1940, the organization has become a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts, addressing crises ranging from natural disasters to pandemics and personal emergencies. In a heartfelt message marking this milestone, President Dr. J. Humphreys praised the volunteers as the backbone of the organization, describing them as ‘the first on the scene and the last to leave’ during times of crisis. He highlighted their dedication, sacrifice, and courage, which have profoundly impacted countless lives. Beyond emergency response, the ABRCS has expanded its initiatives to include youth training, health education, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience programs. These efforts, coupled with community outreach and mobile health services, have strengthened local capacity and ensured inclusivity. Dr. Humphreys emphasized the volunteers’ embodiment of Red Cross principles—kindness in action, courage in adversity, and selfless dedication. As the organization looks to the future, he expressed confidence in its ability to tackle growing humanitarian challenges with resilience, innovation, and humanity. The president also expressed gratitude for the members’ service and reaffirmed the ABRCS’s commitment to providing hope, comfort, and life-saving support to communities nationwide. ‘Let us move forward together, inspired by the difference we make and motivated by the lives we touch,’ he concluded. The ABRCS remains steadfast in its mission to alleviate suffering and promote health, safety, and dignity for all.
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SKN recommits to protecting the elderly
St. Kitts and Nevis (SKN) has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding and supporting its elderly population during the International Day of Older Persons, observed by the Organization of American States (OAS). Augustine Skerritt, Minister Counselor and Alternate Representative of SKN, addressed the OAS Permanent Council in Washington, DC, outlining the nation’s proactive measures to address the needs of its ageing citizens. With approximately 10% of the population over 60—a figure expected to rise—the Federation is prioritizing age-friendly policies across healthcare, social security, and infrastructure. Skerritt emphasized the invaluable contributions of older individuals, stating, ‘Their experience, wisdom, and cultural legacy are essential anchors to our twin-island Federation.’ The nation has aligned with international standards by acceding to the Inter-American Convention on Protecting the Human Rights of Older Persons, signed by Foreign Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas in April 2025. SKN is enhancing primary healthcare to manage non-communicable diseases, expanding social safety nets, and promoting age-friendly environments through legislation and digital inclusion initiatives. Skerritt underscored the moral obligation to protect older citizens, asserting, ‘The strength of the Americas is measured by how we treat our most vulnerable.’
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EGEHID assures stability of dams amid Storm Melissa
Santo Domingo – Rafael Salazar, the executive director of the Dominican Hydroelectric Generation Company (EGEHID), has confirmed that the country’s dams are fully equipped to handle the anticipated rainfall from Tropical Storm Melissa. Salazar emphasized that there is no risk of overflow or uncontrolled water discharges, assuring the public of the stability and preparedness of the nation’s hydraulic infrastructure.
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Caricom roept op tot directe verlenging VS HOPE/HELP-wetgeving voor Haïti
Leaders of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have issued an urgent appeal to the United States to immediately renew the Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) and Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Acts. These programs grant Haiti duty-free access to the U.S. market for textile and apparel exports, which Caricom leaders describe as vital for employment, investment, and stability in the nation. In an official statement, the leaders emphasized that the discontinuation of these preferential trade agreements would severely hinder Haiti’s economic recovery, particularly as the country grapples with escalating social and humanitarian challenges. ‘This is not the time to further weaken Haiti but to demonstrate international solidarity,’ the heads of state declared. The Caricom Conference of Government Leaders reiterated its support for HOPE/HELP, highlighting their dual role in bolstering Haiti’s economy and strengthening trade relations with the United States. The organization has called on the U.S. government and Congress to expedite the renewal of the legislation to ensure the continuation of these programs.
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Businesses in Nevis recognized for championing mental health initiatives
In a landmark ceremony held on October 20, 2025, the Nevis Island Administration’s Behavioral Health and Wellness Center recognized three local businesses for their outstanding contributions to mental health initiatives. The event, part of the Center’s observance of World Mental Health Day, celebrated the efforts of Finished Touch Limited, Jamakie’s Restaurant, and the St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla Trading and Development Company (TDC). These organizations were lauded for their unwavering commitment to fostering community wellness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Counsellor Oldain Claxton, who chaired the ceremony, highlighted the critical role these businesses play in advancing mental health awareness. He praised Finished Touch for its annual donations, describing them as a lifeline that helps create a supportive community. Claxton also commended Jamakie’s Restaurant owner Kelly Dixon for his generosity in providing nourishing meals that benefit both body and spirit. TDC was recognized for its consistent sponsorship of the annual award ceremony, demonstrating its strong advocacy for mental health. Senior Counsellor Macmillan Cuffy emphasized the significance of corporate social responsibility, noting that the awardees’ actions have significantly strengthened the Center’s impact. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Shelissa Martin-Clarke, presented the awards, expressing gratitude for the recipients’ continued collaboration in promoting wellness across Nevis.
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NIA celebrates young female achievers with 2025 Girls of Excellence Awards
The Nevis Island Administration’s Department of Gender Affairs celebrated the achievements of 14 exceptional young girls at the 2025 Girls of Excellence Awards Ceremony. Held on October 11, 2025, at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, the event was themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead, Girls on the Frontline of Crisis,” aligning with the International Day of the Girl Child. The ceremony recognized girls who have demonstrated leadership, courage, and excellence in their schools and communities. Awardees included Rachel Charran from Cecele Browne Integrated School, Jahzara Davis Nisbett from Nevis International Secondary School, and Marika Kendall from Charlestown Secondary School, among others. Deputy Governor General Her Honour Hyleeta Liburd, Minister of Gender Affairs Senator Jahnel Nisbett, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Zahnela Claxton presented the awards. Minister Nisbett praised the honorees for their resilience and ability to lead during challenging times, emphasizing the opportunities they have to shape the future. The event also featured a keynote address by Youth Junior Minister of Tourism Khayla Claxton and a spoken word performance by Brianné Chapman, a recipient of the 25 Most Remarkable Teens award. The Department of Gender Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young girls and fostering the next generation of women leaders on Nevis.
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Team St. Kitts Announces Squad for Leeward Islands Cricket Tournament
The St. Kitts Cricket Association (SKCA) has officially revealed the Team St. Kitts roster for the highly anticipated Leeward Islands Cricket Tournament, scheduled to run from October 25th to November 1st, 2025. The matches will be hosted across various venues in St. Kitts, promising an exciting showcase of regional cricket talent.
Leading the squad once again is captain Terrance Warde, who exuded confidence in his team’s preparation. Warde emphasized the balanced composition of the team, which blends seasoned veterans with emerging young stars. “It’s a mix of youth and experience. We have a few youngsters making significant strides, and we’ll leverage their potential while providing senior players opportunities to shine and secure higher honors, such as selection for the Leeward Islands,” Warde stated.
Warde also highlighted the pivotal role of the Len Harris Cricket Academy in nurturing the island’s cricketing talent. Many of the academy’s graduates have already represented the Leeward Islands at youth levels, a testament to the program’s success. “The youngsters have been performing exceptionally well, and the academy deserves immense credit for their development,” he added.
The 2025 squad includes notable names such as Mikyle Louis, Jeremiah Louis, and wicketkeeper Eirette Richards, alongside promising talents like Caiden Francis and Kasim Challenger. Additional players will be selected for the two-day matches later in the tournament, ensuring depth and flexibility for the team.
As the tournament approaches, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the thrilling contests that will unfold, with Team St. Kitts poised to make a strong impression on home soil.
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Thousands of Palestinians return to devastated homes as UN warns of overcrowded shelters and growing humanitarian needs
Thousands of Palestinians are returning to their homes in the aftermath of a recent ceasefire, only to find widespread devastation and overcrowded UN shelters. The truce has allowed displaced residents to attempt to rebuild their lives, but many are confronted with the grim reality of homes reduced to rubble. With limited options, families are seeking refuge in newly accessible areas, though these sites are already overwhelmed by the influx of people. Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, highlighted the growing movement across the Gaza Strip as residents relocate to safer or newly accessible zones. On Sunday alone, nearly 13,800 displacements were recorded towards Gaza City and North Gaza, with an additional 4,100 movements to the east. Humanitarian operations are being rapidly expanded under a 60-day response plan, with aid agencies increasing their presence in newly accessible areas to address soaring needs. Food parcels, containing essentials like rice, lentils, and fortified sunflower oil, are being distributed at over two dozen locations, reaching more than 15,000 households. UN agencies and 21 partner organizations provided nearly 944,000 meals over the weekend through 178 community kitchens, marking a significant increase in food assistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also intensified efforts, dispatching critical medical supplies to key health facilities, including treatments for chronic illnesses and essential pain relief medications. Shelter assistance is being scaled up ahead of the winter season, with 300 tents and 14,700 blankets distributed to vulnerable households. However, humanitarian partners warn that far greater volumes of shelter materials are urgently needed, requiring Israeli authorities to grant additional access for aid organizations. Despite the ceasefire, the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with aid groups emphasizing that the needs are outpacing available resources.
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Commercial sector urges adherence to building standards regardless of nationality
In a significant move to bolster safety and regulatory adherence, ten prominent trade associations in Santo Domingo, representing hundreds of businesses in the formal commercial sector, have released a joint declaration. The coalition reaffirmed its dedication to strict compliance with Dominican building regulations, emphasizing the importance of structural integrity in commercial establishments and the safety of consumers. The statement also expressed unwavering support for the Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED) and other regulatory bodies in enhancing oversight and control mechanisms for commercial structures. The coalition called on businesses, developers, contractors, engineers, architects, and local authorities to maintain the highest standards of compliance. ‘Adhering to building regulations is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental necessity for consumer safety, business competitiveness, and societal well-being,’ the coalition asserted. Among the participating organizations are Fedocamaras, FDC, Codopyme, ANI, Adoimfe, ONEC, Asecensa, Anamara, Ancodomu, and UNE. They underscored the commercial sector’s pivotal role in driving economic growth, job creation, and urban development, while stressing that such progress must align with rigorous legal and technical building standards. The associations highlighted that these regulations, crafted by qualified academic and technical experts, are designed to ensure structural security, safeguard human lives, and maintain service continuity, even in the face of natural disasters or aging infrastructure. Compliance is mandatory for all establishments and extends protection to customers regardless of nationality. The coalition concluded by emphasizing that strict adherence to building regulations is vital for protecting lives, preserving public trust, and fostering fair competition within the commercial sector.
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TotalEnergies meldt 23% voortgang olieproject Blok 58 aan president Simons
President Jennifer Simons of Suriname received a comprehensive update on the progress of the GranMorgu oil project in Block 58 during a meeting with a delegation from TotalEnergies and Staatsolie on Tuesday. The delegation, led by Javier Rielo, Senior Vice President Americas for Exploration & Production at TotalEnergies, alongside Staatsolie Director Annand Jagesar, confirmed that the project is proceeding on schedule and within budget, with 23% of the work already completed. Jagesar highlighted the project’s adherence to its timeline and the ‘very positive developments’ in local content involvement, noting that two Surinamese ports and several local companies are actively participating in the preparatory work. He also pointed out that Surinamese businesses are currently ahead of their counterparts in Guyana in terms of engagement. President Simons emphasized the importance of leveraging the oil sector as a catalyst for broader national development, urging proactive planning to meet the anticipated demands for food, services, and logistics from the oil industry. She stressed the need for sectors like agriculture and tourism to benefit from the outset. Jagesar echoed this sentiment, calling for immediate policy measures to strengthen agriculture and vocational training, highlighting that only 7% of the workforce holds a higher education degree—a figure significantly lower than in developed economies. He cited initiatives by the Foundation for Labor Mobilization & Development to train youth and individuals from disadvantaged neighborhoods as welders for local content roles as an example of necessary workforce development.