When Hurricane Melissa unleashed its fury on Montego Bay, Shana-Lee Hull found herself in a life-or-death situation. As floodwaters surged into her Estuary home, she had mere seconds to act. Grabbing her four-year-old daughter, she forced open a door jammed by the weight of the rising water and fled through dense vegetation to higher ground. Hours later, she stood on a hill, watching helplessly as her home and vehicle were swallowed by the flood. ‘I lost everything,’ Hull told the Jamaica Observer on Thursday. ‘I’m standing here today, but I’m homeless.’ Hull is among over 100 residents displaced by the hurricane, which brought torrential rains and fierce winds to western Jamaica on Tuesday, rendering roads impassable and forcing families to abandon their homes. The nightmare began during the storm’s peak, as heavy rains battered Montego Bay. Hull recalled how, within minutes, her home was surrounded by water, and the pressure pinned her door shut. ‘I braced against the door, but it wouldn’t budge. It was only through sheer determination that I managed to open it,’ she said. Clutching her daughter, Hull fled as water rushed into her house. ‘Normally she doesn’t listen to me, but that day she did whatever I said,’ she recounted with a weary smile. Nineteen other residents escaped alongside her, helping each other navigate thorny bushes and climb to safety. However, when they turned back, the devastation was overwhelming. ‘I watched my entire house and vehicle disappear under the water,’ Hull said. Despite preparing for the storm with food and supplies, Hull was unprepared for the aftermath. She attributed the severity of the flooding to poor drainage and the overflow of a nearby pond. ‘The pond overflowed, and the water had nowhere to go but into our homes,’ she explained, appealing to the National Housing Trust (NHT) for urgent repairs. As Hull searches for shelter, her friend Kathy Campbell, a restaurant manager at Rainforest Seafood Market, has been leading relief efforts. ‘I’ve been cooking for displaced families since the storm,’ Campbell said. ‘We need food, water, and essential supplies.’ Both women are pleading for immediate assistance to help their community rebuild. For Hull, the memories of her escape remain vivid, and the thought of returning to her flooded home fills her with dread. ‘I would never want to sleep in that house again,’ she said.
分类： society
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Noah Lyles donates essential supplies to Junelle Bromfield’s hurricane-hit hometown
In a heartwarming display of solidarity, US Olympian Noah Lyles, alongside his Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation, has extended a helping hand to the hurricane-ravaged community of Georges Valley in St Elizabeth, Jamaica. This initiative was particularly poignant as it targeted the hometown of Lyles’ fiancé, Junelle Bromfield, a fellow track and field athlete. The donation, comprising essential groceries and toiletries, was facilitated by retired Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell and his wife Alyshia, who were instrumental in packing and distributing the supplies. Powell, in a heartfelt video shared on his social media, emphasized the dire need for collective action, stating, ‘People are really suffering, as much as I can help, I will help.’ He further highlighted the importance of unity in these trying times, ‘The more people come together is the more people we can feed.’ Adding to the chorus of support, Orlando Bennett, a silver medalist in the 110m hurdles, also lent his voice to the cause, urging others to contribute to the relief efforts if possible. Bromfield, reflecting on her deep-rooted connection to the community, shared a video message expressing her desire to give back to the place that had supported her throughout her athletic journey. ‘The community was always helping me out, whether it was in high school to go to Penn Relays, they raised money, taking me to school for free… So I really wanted to give back,’ she said. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that recently struck the southwest of Jamaica, has left St Elizabeth and its neighboring parishes in dire need of assistance. This collaborative effort by Lyles, Bromfield, Powell, and Bennett serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for others to join in the recovery efforts.
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Major Material Shipment for Home Repairs to Arrive by November
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to receive an unprecedented shipment of building materials, marking the largest single import of such supplies in the nation’s history. This initiative, part of a newly launched social housing support program, aims to assist low-income families and residents living in wooden structures with essential home repairs and renovations. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, confirmed that the shipment will arrive before the end of November and will be distributed to vulnerable households across the country. ‘This is the largest order of material ever imported into Antigua and Barbuda by any entity,’ Merchant emphasized, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting the poor and indigent. The program aligns with ongoing projects funded by the Department of the Environment, including the construction of model homes for the Rastafarian community and affordable housing initiatives backed by climate financing mechanisms. According to Merchant, this effort is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance resilience, improve living standards, and ensure that social assistance reaches those who need it most.
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HDPE Pipeline Installation and Road Rehabilitation to Begin on All Saints Road
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has announced a significant initiative to modernize the country’s water distribution system. The project involves replacing outdated cast-iron pipelines with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes along All Saints Road, a move aimed at addressing persistent issues of leaks and water loss. This upgrade is part of APUA’s broader strategy to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the national water network. Esworth Bradshaw, APUA’s General Manager, recently updated the Cabinet on the project’s commencement, emphasizing the benefits of the new HDPE pipes, which are expected to offer superior durability, hydraulic performance, and overall system resilience. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, confirmed that the necessary equipment is already in place, with the new pipelines expected to arrive within the next two to three weeks. Installation work will begin shortly thereafter, with roadworks and pipeline laying to be conducted simultaneously from the junction near Townhouse Furnishings through to English Harbour. The Ministry of Works will issue detailed schedules for road diversions and public advisories as the project progresses. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing water infrastructure and ensuring reliable service for residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Antigua and Barbuda Authorities Seek Public Feedback on Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping Project
The Department of Environment (DOE) and the Development Control Authority (DCA) of Antigua and Barbuda have launched a public consultation initiative to review the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a proposed project by the Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping (ADOMS). This move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive decision-making in environmental matters. Officials highlighted that public feedback is crucial to ensuring sustainable development and safeguarding the nation’s natural resources. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively by reviewing the EIA and submitting their input. For further details and to contribute, visit the official platforms provided by the authorities.
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National Youth Ambassador Makiba Ward Calls on Young People to Lead with Purpose at Youth Rally 2025
Good morning, and welcome to the National Youth Rally 2025! It is both an honor and a privilege to address you today as the National Youth Ambassador, a teacher, and the President of Youth Arise Antigua. This event is a celebration of the pride, progress, and indomitable spirit of our young people, who are the heartbeat of our nation. Every day, I witness the brilliance, creativity, and determination of our youth. I have seen their dreams take shape, their courage tested, and their potential shine through even the most daunting challenges. To the youth gathered here today, you possess the power to inspire, create, and transform. The road ahead will not always be easy. You will face pressures to succeed, uncertainties about the future, and obstacles that may seem insurmountable. But remember: success is born from sustained effort. Keep moving forward, even when the path is unclear. Do not chase perfection; aim for progress. Every small step you take brings you closer to your purpose. Your energy, ideas, and creativity are vital to our society. We need young people who are bold, who take initiative, who uplift one another, and who strive to make a difference not only in their own lives but in the lives of others. Today is your moment to shine, to celebrate your achievements, and to find inspiration for the journey ahead. As we rise, let us also rise in peace. Violence has no place in our communities or in our hearts. Let us choose respect, understanding, and unity over anger and division. True strength lies in discipline, compassion, and self-control. Together, let us build a culture of peace where every young person feels valued, safe, and supported. To the youth across the nation, remain resilient, determined, and never underestimate your power to create change. The future is yours to shape, and together, we can make it brighter, stronger, and more inclusive than ever before. Let this rally be not only a celebration but also a call to action—a commitment to unity, progress, and building a brighter future together. Let us invest in our youth, believe in their abilities, and support them every step of the way. As we celebrate our nation’s Independence under the theme ‘Solid, Stable, Soaring,’ let us remember that our youth are the wings that will carry Antigua and Barbuda even higher. When we believe in them, invest in them, and empower them, our nation soars. Thank you, and welcome once again to the National Youth Rally 2025!
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Vendor Appeals to Prime Minister Gaston Browne Over Poor Market Conditions in King George
A seasoned vendor in St. John’s has publicly appealed to Prime Minister Gaston Browne for urgent intervention, citing persistent infrastructure issues at the King George market area. The vendor, who has operated at the location for nearly two decades, highlighted severe challenges including frequent flooding, damaged tables, and inadequate repairs. Despite Market Street being cleared for redevelopment, she has been barred from returning and continues to face harsh conditions at her current spot.
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Briana Anthony Urges Citizens to Embrace Lifelong Learning at UWI Five Islands
Briana Anthony, a distinguished media personality and communications expert, is encouraging citizens of Antigua and Barbuda to seize the opportunities provided by the government’s commitment to higher and lifelong education. Anthony, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC), marked another significant achievement on 30 October by completing the Lifelong Learning Unit program, where she received accolades in Persuasive Communication. She lauded UWI FIC as a transformative platform and commended the government for its focus on making education accessible, enabling individuals to grow, retool, and advance their careers. ‘Lifelong learning is essential. Whether you’re a recent school graduate, a working professional, or someone with a degree, there’s always room to improve and achieve more. Education empowers individuals and strengthens our nation,’ Anthony emphasized. The government’s ongoing collaboration with UWI continues to broaden access to quality education, empowering citizens to fulfill personal aspirations and contribute to the country’s development.
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Senator Freeland urges stronger disability inclusion and climate action at regional summit
Antigua and Barbuda has reinforced its dedication to advancing disability rights and bolstering climate resilience during the Sixth Meeting of the Presiding Officers of the Regional Conference on Population and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean. Held in Santiago, Chile, on October 29–30, 2025, the event centered on the theme, “From Statistical Visibility to the Exercise of Rights.” Senator Michael Freeland, representing Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner, delivered a compelling address, emphasizing the need to transform statistical recognition of people with disabilities into actionable rights. Freeland underscored the importance of accessible healthcare, inclusive education, decent employment, and active participation in decision-making processes. He also lauded the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities for its pivotal role in enacting the Disabilities Act (2017), a landmark achievement in promoting equality. Additionally, Freeland highlighted the existential threat posed by climate change to Small Island Developing States, citing the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. He called on regional partners to integrate climate resilience into all population and development strategies. Reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to the Montevideo Consensus, Freeland described it as the region’s most progressive and comprehensive framework for population and development.
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SLHTA preparing private sector relief strategy for hurricane-hit islands
The private hotel and tourism sector in Saint Lucia is spearheading a coordinated relief initiative to support Caribbean nations devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Noorani Azeez, Chief Executive Officer of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA), announced on October 29 that the organization has received directives from its parent body, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), to activate its disaster relief fund. Azeez revealed that the SLHTA has already briefed its board of directors and is formulating a strategy to engage its members and the broader Saint Lucian community in contributing to the recovery efforts. The SLHTA, representing over 200 members, plans to align its relief operations with assessments conducted by Jamaican authorities and international partners, ensuring a targeted approach to address critical needs. Azeez emphasized that collaborating with the CHTA offers a more structured and effective framework for mobilizing private sector aid, even though some SLHTA members operate hotel brands in affected areas like Jamaica. Hurricane Melissa, a record-breaking Category 5 storm with winds reaching 185mph, caused significant devastation across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and The Bahamas, resulting in at least 34 fatalities and widespread structural damage. As regional tourism stakeholders gear up for recovery efforts, Azeez affirmed that Saint Lucia and the SLHTA are well-prepared to contribute, drawing on their past experience in providing relief to Dominica, Grenada, and St Vincent.