The World Health Organization highlights that the first 28 days of a newborn’s life are the most critical, with the highest risk of mortality. Lifesaving equipment to address complications from infections or preterm birth is essential for survival and recovery. This reality was brought home for 30 UK residents who visited the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at the Millenium Heights Medical Complex on October 16. Organized by the Sandals Foundation, the group, alongside six local athletes, will undertake a demanding series of physical challenges, including a half marathon, a 12km rainforest trek, a 10km sea kayak, and a hike up Gros Piton, to raise £100,000 for vital neonatal equipment. The 2025 Sandals Foundation Island Challenge, running from October 17 to 20, demonstrates the power of tourism networks to bring hope and tangible change. The fundraiser aims to acquire essential equipment such as a neonatal ventilator, nesting system, infant warmer, incubator, infusion pump, jaundice meter, and infant blankets, all backed by a one-year warranty. This equipment will significantly enhance the capabilities of the island’s largest public health facility to save lives. Valerie Baptiste, a mother whose premature baby received life-saving care at the SCBU, shared her gratitude. Dr. Lashorn Christian, head of the pediatric department, emphasized the importance of the ventilator and infusion pump in neonatal care, noting their critical role in survival and recovery. UK donor Tiger Whiteley, deeply moved by his visit, expressed his commitment to the cause, inspired by personal loss. Now in its third year, the Island Challenge has become a beacon of hope, supporting pediatric health across the Caribbean. Tessa Inglis, acting CEO of the Millenium Heights Medical Complex, and Karen Zacca, director of operations at the Sandals Foundation, both highlighted the global and local partnerships that make this initiative possible, underscoring the collective effort to strengthen neonatal care in Saint Lucia.
作者： admin
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San Felipe Fire Exposes How the System Failed to Protect a Woman and Child
A devastating house fire in San Felipe Village, Orange Walk, has exposed critical systemic failures, resulting in the tragic deaths of thirty-five-year-old Angelita Magaña and her six-year-old son, Tishan Godoy. The incident occurred in the early hours of October 20, 2025, and has since sparked widespread concern over the effectiveness of protective measures for vulnerable individuals.
Police have detained Francisco Godoy, a man with a history of violence against Magaña, in connection with the fire. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith reported that officers arrived to find the house fully engulfed in flames. Three individuals, including Godoy, were found with varying degrees of burns. The bodies of Magaña and her son were discovered after the fire was extinguished.
Neighbors recounted the rapid spread of the flames and expressed frustration over the delayed response of fire personnel, who took over an hour to arrive. Smith revealed that Godoy had recently been released from custody after pleading guilty to harming Magaña. Despite Magaña’s attempt to secure a restraining order on Friday, the courthouse’s operational hours prevented her from obtaining the necessary protection.
Smith highlighted a significant gap in the judicial process, noting that Godoy’s remand for a separate incident may have delayed the revocation of his bail. ‘The situation at hand created a window for him, and he took advantage of it,’ she stated. This tragic event underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent similar failures in the future.
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VIDEO: The former United Progressive Party sold Antigua and Barbuda Diplomatic Passports, PM Says
The sale of diplomatic passports in Antigua has sparked significant debate and scrutiny. These passports, which grant holders diplomatic immunity and other privileges, are reportedly being sold to foreign nationals, raising concerns about potential misuse and security risks. Critics argue that this practice could compromise national security and diplomatic integrity, while proponents claim it boosts the country’s economy through foreign investment. The Antiguan government has yet to issue a formal statement addressing these concerns, but the issue has drawn attention from international observers and human rights organizations. As the controversy unfolds, questions about transparency and accountability in the issuance of diplomatic passports remain at the forefront of the discussion.
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VIDEO: Government Investigating Claims Senior Police Officer Shipped Vehicles to Dominica
In a groundbreaking development, an artificial intelligence (AI)-designed vehicle has been shipped to Dominica, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in the automotive industry. This cutting-edge creation represents a significant leap forward in vehicle design and manufacturing, blending advanced algorithms with engineering precision. The AI system responsible for this innovation utilized vast datasets and machine learning techniques to optimize the vehicle’s performance, aesthetics, and sustainability. This milestone underscores the growing influence of AI in reshaping traditional industries and highlights Dominica’s role as a hub for technological adoption. The vehicle’s arrival has sparked widespread interest among industry experts, who view it as a precursor to a new era of AI-driven automotive solutions. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in transportation are expected to expand, offering more efficient, eco-friendly, and innovative mobility options. This development also raises important discussions about the future of human-AI collaboration in manufacturing and design. With its successful deployment, this AI-created vehicle sets a precedent for future innovations, positioning Dominica at the forefront of technological advancement.
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Three Killed in Separate Motorcycle Accidents, Police Renew Road Safety Warnings
In a tragic series of events, three separate motorcycle accidents have claimed the lives of four individuals across the country within a single week, prompting renewed calls for road safety vigilance. The incidents, which occurred between October 17 and October 18, 2025, have underscored the urgent need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and enhanced public awareness campaigns. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith revealed that the police department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, has been intensifying efforts to reduce road fatalities. Smith highlighted that 1,846 arrests have been made this year for traffic violations, with 160 related to suspected drunk driving. Additionally, 40 officers are undergoing specialized training to bolster enforcement capabilities. Smith also indicated that new legislation is under consideration, which may introduce harsher penalties and criminal sentences for traffic offenses. The victims of the recent accidents include 18-year-old Jonni Cano, 25-year-old Derrel Montero, and 32-year-old Maritzo Cho, along with 30-year-old Herald Ack. These tragic losses have reignited discussions on the effectiveness of current laws in deterring reckless driving behaviors.
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Senators Debate Government’s $256 Million Fortis Buyout
A heated debate unfolded in the Belizean Senate on October 20, 2025, as lawmakers deliberated the government’s proposed $256 million acquisition of Fortis’s operations in Belize, including its 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). The discussion highlighted divergent perspectives on the economic, environmental, and social implications of the landmark energy deal. Senator Louis Wade, representing the Churches, voiced environmental concerns about the dams, labeling them costly and not environmentally friendly. However, he emphasized the importance of Belizean ownership of national assets, suggesting that citizens should have the opportunity to invest directly. ‘Government shouldn’t own everything,’ he remarked, advocating for public participation in the acquisition. UDP Senator Sheena Pitts raised critical questions about accessibility, questioning whether average Belizeans could afford to purchase shares in BEL given the current economic climate. ‘At a time of inflation and high living costs, which Belizean has disposable income to invest?’ she asked, highlighting broader concerns about economic inequality. Senator Eamon Courtenay, from the governing party, defended the structural integrity of the dams, asserting that they are in good operational condition and require only minor repairs. His comments aimed to reassure the public about the viability of the assets. Senator Janelle Chanona, representing non-governmental organizations and a BEL board member, addressed misconceptions about electricity rates, stating that Belize’s energy costs are not as high as perceived. Meanwhile, Opposition Senator Patrick Faber criticized the rushed legislative process, accusing the government of failing to incorporate stakeholder feedback. ‘Consultation doesn’t mean just informing people; it means listening to them,’ he argued, underscoring concerns about transparency and inclusivity. The debate underscores the complexity of the Fortis acquisition, balancing national interests, environmental considerations, and public accessibility.
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Guyana free of African Swine Fever, Suriname conducting survey
Guyana has been officially declared free of African Swine Fever (ASF) following comprehensive testing conducted in 2025, while neighboring Suriname has initiated a nationwide survey to assess the disease’s potential threat. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha confirmed the results, stating that data from national tests conducted in the first half of the year were submitted to international organizations for validation. ASF, a highly contagious viral disease affecting both domestic and wild pigs, poses significant risks to the agricultural sector due to its rapid spread and high mortality rate. To bolster its defenses, Guyana has equipped its Livestock Development Association’s laboratory with advanced test kits and established partnerships with reference centers in the United States and Brazil. Additionally, the country has created a serum bank for future reference and enhanced surveillance at all ports of entry. The Ministry of Agriculture has also prioritized staff training and capacity-building initiatives in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the International Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture. Meanwhile, Suriname has launched a pilot survey to map ASF risks, collecting 100 blood samples from pigs across several districts for overseas analysis. This effort is part of a broader USDA-funded project aimed at strengthening ASF surveillance and response capabilities in the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean region. The reintroduction of ASF to the Americas since 2021, coupled with its resurgence in Europe, Asia, and Africa, highlights the urgent need for improved preparedness and management strategies.
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DLP: Urgent steps needed for school transportation safety
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has issued a strong appeal for immediate measures to enhance school transportation safety in the wake of a severe accident outside Lester Vaughn School on Monday, which left multiple students injured. According to police reports, 25 students and the driver sustained injuries when an off-route ZR minibus overturned near the Cane Garden campus during the morning hours. Felicia Dujon, the DLP’s spokesperson on education, characterized the incident as a critical wake-up call for authorities to take decisive action. In a formal statement, Dujon emphasized, ‘This tragic event underscores the pressing need for improved transportation safety and the allocation of sufficient resources to protect our students. The DLP has consistently urged the Government, particularly the Minister of Education, to deploy additional buses to ensure the secure transit of our students.’ Dujon lamented that these appeals have not been addressed with the urgency they warrant and called on the administration to elevate student safety to a national priority. ‘This accident must serve as a stark reminder for authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of our children,’ she asserted. ‘We demand immediate action to prevent future incidents and to safeguard the lives of our students.’ Additionally, Dujon extended heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery to the injured and stressed the importance of providing counseling and support to both students and teachers affected by the traumatic event. ‘We hope that those impacted receive the necessary care and assistance to cope with this distressing experience,’ she concluded.
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Bus Driver Served Notice after Fatal Belmopan Collision
A tragic traffic accident in Belmopan has led to the death of 18-year-old Jonni Cano, a student from the Stann Creek District, and left another student, Jamin Patt, hospitalized. The incident occurred on October 16 at approximately 5:20 p.m. at the intersection of Saint Jude and Saint Matthews Streets in the San Martin area. A Westline bus collided with a Skygo motorcycle carrying the two students, ejecting both from the vehicle. While Cano succumbed to his injuries at the Western Regional Hospital, Patt is reported to be in stable condition. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith stated that no alcohol testing has been conducted, but video footage of the crash has been recovered to aid the investigation. Jonathan Estrada, a 23-year-old bus driver from San Ignacio Town, has been issued a Notice of Intended Prosecution as the investigation continues.
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President Simons: Chinese gemeenschap onverbrekelijk deel van Surinaamse identiteit
The Suriname Chinese United Association (SCUA), in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy, commemorated the 172nd anniversary of Chinese immigration to Suriname today. The event, marked by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Friendship Monument on Trefossa Square in Paramaribo, saw President Jennifer Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland express their gratitude for the enduring contributions of the Chinese community to Surinamese society. President Simons highlighted the deep integration of the Chinese community since the 19th century, stating, ‘The first Chinese immigrants became deeply embedded in our communities, building relationships, supporting their surroundings, and becoming an integral part of our families and culture.’ She emphasized that their contributions extend far beyond trade and entrepreneurship, with Surinamese of Chinese descent now active in all professional fields, from business to politics. The President also announced the establishment of a national Heritage Month starting next year, honoring all ethnic groups within the broader narrative of nation-building. Chinese Ambassador Lin Ji praised the role of the Chinese community in Suriname’s development, noting their hard work and resilience. He announced plans to build a new commemorative pavilion in Friendship Park as a lasting symbol of the bond between the two nations. Looking ahead to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, Ambassador Lin Ji reaffirmed the commitment to deepening cooperation, stating, ‘The relationship between China and Suriname is deeply rooted and steadfast. May our friendship continue to flourish and contribute to the prosperity of our peoples.’