Belize is witnessing a transformative surge in its healthcare sector, fueled by the unprecedented success of its national lottery system. Belize Government Lotteries Ltd. (BGLL) has reported staggering sales of over $108 million in its inaugural year, with projections indicating a rise to $137 million in the current year. This cumulative figure of nearly $245 million in just two years is not only a testament to the lottery’s popularity but also a critical funding source for national projects, particularly healthcare. Through the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, BGLL has already contributed $22 million to expand primary care services across the country. Janel Espat, Managing Director of BGLL, highlighted the lottery’s role in generating revenue, stating, ‘Our first calendar year, our sales were a hundred and eight million dollars. We are hoping, by all indications, that for the second year our sales will be a hundred and thirty-seven million dollars.’ The funds are disbursed to the government, with the Ministry of Finance determining their allocation. Dr. Ramon Figueroa, General Manager of NHI, emphasized the significance of this financial boost, noting that the NHI rollout, which began in 2001, has historically been constrained by funding limitations. The lottery’s contributions have enabled the expansion of primary care to regions like Orange Walk and the Cayo District, despite challenges posed by the latter’s dispersed population. This innovative funding mechanism is paving the way for nationwide healthcare improvements, marking a significant milestone in Belize’s public health journey.
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Triumphant PPP Region 4 Chairman, Vice Chairman promise to include WIN, APNU
In a landmark electoral triumph, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) has secured the Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Guyana’s most densely populated region. The newly elected Chairman, Clemsford Belgrave, and Vice Chairman, Deoraj Nauth, have pledged to prioritize regional development in alignment with the central government’s agenda while ensuring inclusivity in decision-making processes.
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Shooting leaves one injured in abandoned hotel
A violent shooting erupted early Thursday morning at the former Pam Village Hotel in the El Batey area of Sosúa, Puerto Plata, leaving one man critically injured. The incident, which occurred during a conflict between illegal occupants of the abandoned complex, involved a group of individuals arriving in a white Sonata vehicle and opening fire on those present. The victim, identified as Miguel de la Rosa, 39, known as “La Barba,” sustained multiple gunshot wounds and is in critical condition at Ricardo Limardo Hospital. Authorities have linked the shooting to an internal dispute among squatters vying for control and management of the occupied apartments. A man referred to as “Amparo” was also implicated in the altercation, alongside others who fled the scene. The attackers abandoned their vehicle, which is now under investigation. The Pam Village Hotel, abandoned years ago, has become a hub for illegal activities, including drug trafficking, and a source of escalating violence in the tourist-heavy area. Local residents have expressed concerns over the deteriorating safety, calling for police intervention. Three individuals have been arrested so far, with the National Police continuing their investigation to identify the perpetrators and clarify the motives behind the confrontation.
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A20: een dag van vrijheid, identiteit en veerkracht
On the Day of the Maroons, the political party A20 paid heartfelt tribute to the history, struggles, and cultural richness of Suriname’s Maroon communities. Emphasizing the significance of October 10th, A20 declared it not merely a day of remembrance but a celebration of freedom, identity, and resilience. The Maroons, descendants of enslaved Africans, courageously broke free from the chains of slavery, forging historic peace treaties with colonial authorities in the 18th and 19th centuries. These agreements recognized their freedom and autonomy, laying a foundation of justice and acknowledgment in Suriname’s history. A20 highlighted that the Maroons are not a marginalized group but a proud and active force within society, contributing significantly to education, governance, arts, and entrepreneurship. The party pledged its commitment to equal opportunities, infrastructure development, and sustainable collaboration with Maroon communities. A20 also celebrated the preservation of Maroon culture, including their music, dance, spirituality, crafts, language, and culinary traditions, which are integral to Suriname’s heritage. The party expressed gratitude to André Pakosie, a Maroon historian and cultural activist, whose efforts led to the official recognition of this day. A20 concluded with a call for unity, envisioning a Suriname where every culture thrives, every voice matters, and every community shapes its future with pride and freedom.
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Natio sleept gelijkspel uit het vuur tegen Guatemala
In a tightly contested match at the Franklin Essed Stadium, the Surinamese national team managed to salvage a 1–1 draw against Guatemala in their World Cup qualifier on Friday evening. Despite dominating possession with over 60% of the ball, Suriname struggled to convert their control into clear scoring opportunities, registering only five shots on target compared to Guatemala’s two. The first half ended goalless, but Guatemala broke the deadlock in the 75th minute through Darwin Lom, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to put his team ahead. Suriname, however, refused to concede defeat. In a bold tactical shift, they substituted three defenders for additional attackers, pushing aggressively for an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 94th minute when Virgil Mididjan capitalized on a poorly cleared corner, slotting the ball into the bottom right corner to level the score. The draw keeps Suriname’s hopes alive for advancing to the next round of World Cup qualifiers. The team now anxiously awaits the outcome of the match between El Salvador and Panama, which will determine their position in the group standings.
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Reds Perreira praises CAC Bodybuilding, flags missed opportunity for local support
Renowned sports commentator Dr Joseph Reds Perreira has provided a comprehensive assessment of the recently concluded IFBB Central American and Caribbean Bodybuilding Championship. Held at the Pavilion in Rodney Bay last month, the event brought together competitors from across the region, showcasing their prowess in the sport. Perreira, a long-time advocate for sports development, described the championship as a general success, though he highlighted areas for potential enhancement. Honored during the event for his contributions to bodybuilding in Saint Lucia, Perreira praised the final night’s execution, which began promptly at 5:30 p.m. and ran smoothly. He commended the local organizing committee for their efficient arrangements and the Pavilion’s excellent venue, noting the enthusiastic participation of the crowd during the judging process. However, Perreira pointed out that the preliminary rounds, held on September 27, suffered from low attendance due to an early start time of 2:00 p.m. He suggested that a later start, such as 6:00 p.m., would have allowed more individuals, particularly those at work, to attend and support local athletes. This adjustment could have also helped the host association generate additional gate receipts to offset event costs. Despite this flaw, Perreira expressed overall satisfaction with the public’s support and the event’s organization. His insights remain crucial as discussions continue about establishing an Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States-based bodybuilding competition, furthering the sport’s regional growth.
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APNU defends its participation in ‘illegal’ council elections
In a contentious turn of events, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Region Four Councillor Shanika Haynes defended her party’s decision to participate in internal elections for chairman and vice chairman, despite the process being deemed illegal due to the use of secret balloting. Haynes argued that even if APNU had boycotted, the elections would have proceeded regardless, given the quorum requirements. She emphasized that the party would explore legal avenues to challenge the outcome. The Regional Executive Officer, Donald Gajraj, insisted on secret balloting based on guidelines from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), overriding objections from APNU, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), and Forward Guyana Movement (FGM). Haynes criticized Gajraj for not allowing councillors to decide on the voting method, as stipulated by law. She also expressed suspicions about irregularities in the voting process, noting that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) secured the chairmanship with 18 votes despite having only 17 councillors. APNU, which holds 9 councillors, received 8 votes, with 7 blank and 2 spoilt ballots. The party also revealed that negotiations with WIN collapsed after WIN sought to exclude APNU from key leadership positions in multiple regional councils. APNU reaffirmed its commitment to independent leadership, vowing to ensure accountability and principled governance for its constituents.
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Shyne to deliver keynote at Island Music Conference 2026
The Island Music Conference (IMC) has revealed that Grammy Award-winning artist and Belizean politician Shyne will take center stage as the keynote speaker for its 2026 edition. Scheduled for February 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Courtleigh Auditorium, New Kingston, Jamaica, Shyne’s address, titled “From Stage to State,” will delve into his remarkable journey from music stardom to political leadership. Born Jamal Michael Barrow, Shyne’s career began in a Brooklyn barbershop, where he was discovered and subsequently signed to Bad Boy Records. His 2000 self-titled debut album went platinum, featuring hits like “Bad Boyz” and “Bonnie & Shyne” with Barrington Levy. Collaborations with icons such as The Notorious B.I.G., Mase, Puff Daddy, Usher, and Lil Wayne further cemented his place in music history. However, a 1999 nightclub shooting led to a 10-year prison sentence for assault and weapon possession, during which he released his second album, “Godfather Buried Alive,” in 2004. Post-incarceration, Shyne shifted his focus to politics, serving as a Belizean Member of Parliament from November 2020 to March 2025. Recently, he marked the 25th anniversary of his debut album in September 2025. At IMC 2026, Shyne will reflect on his dual legacy in music and politics, offering insights into how these experiences continue to influence his contributions to both fields.
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Dominica’s Jungle Bay named Caribbean’s leading Resort at World Travel Awards in St Lucia
Dominica’s Jungle Bay has been honored as the Caribbean’s Leading Retreat 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony, held in St. Lucia. Nestled on 20 acres of verdant landscape overlooking the Soufrière-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, Jungle Bay epitomizes eco-luxury, wellness, and community-focused tourism. The resort boasts 89 accommodations with top-tier amenities, including adventure activities, spa treatments, yoga sessions, gourmet dining, and immersive cultural experiences. A hallmark of Jungle Bay is its sustainable design, which integrates local community involvement, employs local staff, and sources produce from its own gardens. Marie Hubbard, General Manager, expressed her elation, stating, ‘This recognition underscores our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering an extraordinary guest experience.’ The resort’s philosophy aligns with the growing demand for travel experiences that blend rejuvenation with discovery. Samuel ‘Sam’ Raphael, President and Owner of Jungle Bay, emphasized the resort’s broader mission: ‘Jungle Bay is more than a resort; it’s a sanctuary where nature, community, and culture converge. This award validates our vision of sustainable luxury and purpose-driven hospitality, resonating deeply with travelers and industry leaders.’ The accolade further solidifies Jungle Bay’s reputation as a trailblazer in the Caribbean’s wellness and retreat sector.
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BEP: Vrijheid, erkenning en nationale trots
Suriname commemorated its 15th annual Maroon Day on October 10, a national holiday dedicated to honoring the heroic resistance of the Maroon community’s ancestors against slavery and oppression. Recognized as a crime against humanity in modern history, this day serves as a reminder of the Maroons’ visionary spirit and their enduring legacy in the fight for freedom and human dignity. The celebration underscores the ongoing relevance of their struggle in contemporary discussions on equality, inclusion, and justice. A statement emphasized, “We not only cherish the fundamental right to freedom but also acknowledge that their fight for a fair and inclusive society continues to shape national and international agendas.” The event also highlighted the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly climate preservation and sustainable resource use, calling for sustained action toward empowerment and social justice. “It is time to reinterpret and revalue our history as a foundation for unity and nation-building,” the statement added. The day also drew attention to the unresolved issue of land rights for Indigenous and Tribal peoples, with a 2007 ruling by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights still awaiting full implementation. President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons’ commitment to prioritizing land rights was welcomed. Adding a unique touch to the celebration, Suriname’s national football team faced Panama in a crucial match for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event concluded with a message of gratitude, national pride, and hope, wishing all Surinamese a reflective and joyous Maroon Day.