The aftermath of Hurricane Beryl has left Union Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in a state of utter devastation. Aerial imagery reveals widespread destruction, with two-thirds of the island’s buildings reduced to rubble and countless residents rendered homeless. Critical infrastructure, including power, water, and transportation systems, lies in ruins, severely disrupting daily life. The tourism sector, a cornerstone of the local economy, has suffered catastrophic losses, triggering a cascade of unemployment, poverty, and escalating food insecurity. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has captured the dire situation in a poignant photograph by Gema Cortés, underscoring the urgent need for action. In light of the escalating frequency and intensity of climate-driven disasters, the IOM is advocating for a paradigm shift in global financing priorities. This year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) carries the theme ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ emphasizing the need to redirect resources from costly disaster response to proactive prevention and preparedness. IOM Director General Amy Pope has issued a clarion call, stating, ‘Every dollar invested in resilience saves many more in avoided losses and protects the dignity of those most at risk.’ She urges governments, donors, and the private sector to prioritize investments that mitigate disaster risks and bolster the resilience of vulnerable communities. In 2024 alone, nearly 46 million people were displaced by disasters, marking a record high. Despite this alarming trend, disaster risk reduction efforts remain woefully underfunded, with most governments allocating less than 1% of their budgets to prevention. As the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) approaches, the IOM is poised to champion the integration of disaster and climate risk reduction into climate finance negotiations. Leveraging innovative tools like the Risk Index for Climate Displacement and the Climate Catalytic Fund, the organization aims to harness predictive analytics and community-driven finance to preempt displacement and safeguard developmental progress.
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Top United States Military Official To Visit Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada
Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), is set to embark on a pivotal two-day visit to Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada on October 14-15. This marks his first official trip to both nations since assuming command of SOUTHCOM in November last year. The visit underscores the United States’ commitment to bolstering security cooperation with key Caribbean partners. During his stay, Admiral Holsey will engage in high-level discussions with Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada. Additionally, he will meet with Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, and the Acting Commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, Randy Connaught. The agenda focuses on addressing shared regional challenges, including transnational organized crime, illicit trafficking, and border security. Both Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada play crucial roles in enhancing security in the Eastern Caribbean, and the U.S. remains dedicated to fostering long-standing partnerships with these nations. Admiral Holsey’s visit highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to promote regional stability and security.
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JOB VACANCY: Restaurant Seeking Cooks
A prominent restaurant in Antigua is currently on the lookout for talented and experienced cooks to join its culinary team. The establishment, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable cuisine, is seeking individuals who are passionate about food and possess the skills to deliver exceptional dining experiences. Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out for more details by contacting (268) 780-9500. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to advance their culinary careers in a dynamic and supportive environment. Additionally, the restaurant emphasizes its commitment to fostering a collaborative and creative workspace for its staff. In a separate announcement, the most visited news site in Antigua is offering customizable and flexible digital marketing packages for businesses looking to enhance their online presence. For inquiries, contact [email protected].
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PAHO makes donation to bolster health education in Dominica
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has made a significant contribution to Dominica’s Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services (MOHWSS) by donating a 40-inch Vizio Smart TV and a mobile stand. This initiative, announced in a recent media release, aims to strengthen health education, raise public awareness, and support community outreach programs across the island. The donation highlights PAHO’s dedication to delivering essential health information directly to local communities.
The official handover ceremony occurred on October 8, 2025, with Nicole Slack-Liburd, PAHO Country Programme Specialist, presenting the equipment to Dr. Kyra Paul-L’Homme, Permanent Secretary of the MOHWSS. Mignon Rolle-Shillingford, Coordinator of the Health Promotion Unit, also attended the event. Slack-Liburd emphasized the importance of community-centered healthcare, stating, ‘A core principle of the primary healthcare approach is meeting people where they are.’ She added that the mobile stand ensures the device can be utilized not only in health facilities but also in various community locations.
The donation is expected to bolster the Ministry’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and other public health initiatives. Additionally, PAHO continues to support Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA) 2025 by distributing educational materials and extending vaccination service hours at the Fond Cole Health Centre and surrounding areas.
The new equipment will enable health professionals to display educational content, health messages, and awareness videos during outreach events, school visits, and health fairs, fostering improved health literacy and community engagement. Dr. Paul-L’Homme expressed gratitude for PAHO’s unwavering partnership, noting that the donation will significantly enhance the Ministry’s ability to deliver effective and accessible health education to all citizens.
PAHO’s collaboration with the Dominican government remains focused on creating healthier communities through innovative approaches, improved accessibility, and empowerment.
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National Consultations Begin on Draft Policy for Persons with Disabilities
The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment in Saint Lucia has initiated a nationwide consultation process to gather public input on the Draft National Policy for Persons with Disabilities. Running from October 13 to 24, 2025, these consultations aim to engage individuals with disabilities, their families, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders in shaping a more inclusive and equitable framework for disability rights and empowerment. The policy is informed by a comprehensive Situation Analysis of Persons with Disabilities in Saint Lucia, which highlighted the challenges, opportunities, and daily realities faced by this community. Aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the draft policy envisions a Saint Lucia where individuals with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of national life, guided by principles of dignity, equality, autonomy, and participation. The consultations will be held across multiple districts, including Babonneau, Dennery, Gros Islet, Odsan, and Anse La Raye, with specialized sessions for professionals and key advocacy groups. Dr. Clementia Eugene, a seasoned social worker with over two decades of experience, is leading the policy development process, ensuring it remains evidence-based and inclusive. Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel emphasized the importance of these consultations in advancing Saint Lucia’s commitment to building an inclusive society. The ministry has urged broad participation to ensure the final policy reflects the community’s realities and aspirations.
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Work Online Caribbean launches in Grenada with new cohort
IsraAID Dominica and Eastern Caribbean, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Barbados and Eastern Caribbean, has unveiled a new cohort of the Work Online Caribbean initiative in Grenada. This groundbreaking programme aims to empower young people and professionals by equipping them with essential digital skills to access global employment opportunities. Work Online Caribbean is a regional effort focused on enhancing participants’ competitiveness in the online job market through training in digital literacy, freelancing, online communication, and business development. The programme, which includes intensive workshops, mentorship, and hands-on activities, emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial thinking to prepare participants for the evolving digital economy. This expansion to Grenada marks a significant milestone for the initiative, which has already benefited over 500 participants across the region. By targeting Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the programme supports sustainable livelihoods and economic resilience through technology. Grenadians aged 18 to 50 are encouraged to apply before the deadline on 27 October 2025, with only 80 spots available. Application details can be found at workonlinecaribbean.org. About Work Online Caribbean: This initiative empowers individuals in the Eastern Caribbean to access sustainable income streams by building digital skills and fostering resilience. About UNDP: As the leading UN organisation addressing poverty, inequality, and climate change, UNDP works across 170 countries to create lasting solutions for people and the planet. Learn more at undp.org/Barbados or follow @UNDPBarbadosEC on social media.
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Lovell Criticizes Governance Failures, Calls for Transparency in Social Security Management
Harold Lovell, former finance minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has launched a scathing critique of the nation’s governance, highlighting significant lapses in transparency and accountability. During an interview on Observer A.M. with Dr. Jacqui Quinn, Lovell accused current officials of disregarding the principles of laws designed to promote openness and integrity. He emphasized that the country’s leadership operates with a “small-island mentality,” which he argued perpetuates mediocrity and political favoritism, leaving the majority of citizens struggling while a privileged few thrive. Lovell, who also serves as a visiting professor at the University of Toronto, pointed to legislation introduced during his tenure with the United Progressive Party (UPP) in 2004, including the Freedom of Information Act, Integrity in Public Life Act, and Prevention of Corruption Act. He lamented that these laws, intended to foster transparency, have been undermined by poor implementation. Lovell also raised concerns about the handling of the Social Security Fund, questioning why financial and actuarial reports remain inaccessible to the public. He described the situation as a violation of the Social Security Act of 1972, which aimed to involve civil society in fund management. The interview concluded with Dr. Quinn commending Lovell’s insightful analysis, blending his political experience with academic expertise.
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PM to file motion to honour late leaders Douglas and Charles with nation’s highest award
In a historic move, Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit announced plans to introduce a parliamentary motion on October 14, seeking approval to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country’s most prestigious accolade, upon the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion aims to recognize the exceptional contributions of both leaders, whose visionary leadership and dedication to social justice, education, and community development left an indelible mark on Dominica’s progress. Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the enduring legacy of Douglas and Charles, stating, “Their unwavering commitment to our nation continues to inspire resilience and unity among our people.” The awards will be presented posthumously during the formal commemoration of Dominica’s 47th Independence Anniversary on November 3. Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas served as Prime Minister from February 2000 until his untimely death on October 1 of the same year. Pierre Charles succeeded him, holding office from October 3, 2000, until his passing on January 6, 2004. The Government of Dominica has called upon all citizens to join in celebrating the legacy of these two leaders, whose efforts remain a cornerstone of the nation’s identity and aspirations.
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Maurice Bishop’s grave was sold to developers
In Egmont, Grenada, the site where Maurice Bishop’s body was last seen—a burn pit following the 19 October 1983 massacre—has been transformed into a neighborhood of million-dollar mansions. This development occurred without any archaeological or environmental assessments, raising questions about Grenada’s commitment to preserving its historical heritage. The story of Bishop, a pivotal figure in Grenada’s history, mirrors the broader neglect of the island’s cultural and historical sites, including enslaved burial grounds and Amerindian locations. Despite legal protections and policies aimed at safeguarding these sites, enforcement remains lax, and development often takes precedence over preservation. The irony is palpable as Grenada prepares to open a National Heroes Park near Camerhogne Park, itself a site of historical significance, while failing to address the mysteries surrounding Bishop’s final resting place. The lack of oversight and institutional strength has allowed developers to bypass necessary impact assessments, leading to the destruction of invaluable historical sites. This pattern of neglect not only erases Grenada’s past but also diminishes its potential for heritage tourism, which could contribute significantly to the economy. As Grenada approaches an election, there is a call for candidates to commit to enforcing heritage protections and funding impact assessments to preserve what remains of the island’s history. The question remains: will Grenada choose to protect its heritage before it’s too late?
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Teachers from over 40 schools trained to help at-risk students
Over 40 schools in Barbados are currently engaged in an intensive week-long training programme aimed at empowering teachers and counsellors to better assist students who are at risk or have been exposed to violence. This transformative initiative, hosted at Pelican House in Bridgetown, is a joint effort between Barbados’ Ministry of Educational Transformation and Jamaica’s Multicare Youth Foundation (MYF). The programme seeks to provide educators with practical strategies to address behavioural challenges, mitigate aggression, and foster emotional well-being among young people. Spearheaded by MYF Executive Director Mitzian Turner, the initiative has been hailed as a “groundbreaking, monumental milestone” for the foundation. Turner emphasized that this training represents a crucial step in building resilience and offering support to vulnerable youth across the Caribbean region.