On October 16, 2025, Dominica joined the global community in commemorating World Food Day under the theme, ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.’ This year’s celebration held special significance as it coincided with the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, an institution that has tirelessly worked to eradicate hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture worldwide. Hon. Roland Royer, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, emphasized the critical role of collective action in achieving food security. In an audio statement, he underscored that access to adequate food is not just a fundamental right but a shared responsibility. Royer expressed gratitude for FAO’s continued support in enhancing Dominica’s food systems and resilience. The Minister highlighted the importance of unity, as symbolized by the theme, and called for collaboration across all sectors—farmers, fishers, educators, community members, and government agencies—to build a more resilient Dominica. He stressed the need to support local agriculture and fisheries, promote the consumption of locally produced foods, and empower the youth as essential steps toward independence and long-term prosperity. Despite global advancements, hunger remains a pressing issue, with nearly 730 million people worldwide facing chronic hunger and over 2.3 billion experiencing food insecurity. In the Caribbean, 16.3% of the population, or 7.2 million people, suffer from undernourishment, exacerbated by reliance on imports, climate change, and economic vulnerabilities. Royer reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges by improving local food systems, supporting farmers, and ensuring access to nutritious and affordable food for all citizens. Initiatives like CARICOM’s ’25 by 2030,’ which aims to reduce food imports by 25%, align with national goals to boost agriculture’s economic contribution to $700 million and cut meat imports by up to 40% by 2030. Recent efforts include expanding irrigation, introducing modern farming tools, enhancing market linkages, and promoting climate-smart practices. The government is also investing in food processing, safety, and product development to transform local produce into high-quality goods. Programs targeting youth engagement, agricultural education in schools, and fostering innovation in farming are also underway. Royer emphasized that every action, from planting trees to reducing food waste, contributes to the nation’s goal of eradicating hunger and building sustainability. He urged citizens to unite in supporting agriculture, protecting the environment, and empowering future generations. In closing, the Minister called on Dominicans to celebrate World Food Day by taking tangible steps toward a sustainable and food-secure nation.
分类： society
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Mother Who Lost Home in Fire Still In Need of Place To Call Her Own
Latoya Christian, a mother whose home was destroyed in a tragic fire earlier this year, continues to face significant challenges in securing stable housing for her family. Despite receiving essential donations such as food and clothing, Christian emphasizes that her most pressing need is a permanent place to live. She shared her plight with Antigua Newsroom, expressing her frustration and gratitude simultaneously. ‘I have been getting food, clothes, etc., but I’m in need of somewhere to stay. My daughter just had a baby, and I have others all over. It’s frustrating, to be honest. I’m not saying it’s anyone’s fault, but all I need is some assistance for somewhere to live,’ she said. The fire, which occurred in July, began in the kitchen when a gas hose caught fire. Despite her efforts to extinguish the flames, the blaze quickly engulfed the house, forcing Christian and her children to flee over a fence to safety. Among those affected were her six-year-old daughter, four-year-old son, and 21-year-old pregnant daughter, who has since given birth. The fire destroyed all their belongings, including clothing, documents, and baby supplies. Christian, who has been going to work without meals, relies on the school meal program to feed her five-year-old. She is deeply thankful for the support she has received so far but is urgently appealing for assistance to secure housing for her family. Those wishing to help can contact her at (268) 783-9068.
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Barbados ‘leads CARICOM’ in introducing paid paternity leave
Barbados has set a groundbreaking precedent in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) by becoming the first nation to introduce paid paternity leave for fathers. The landmark legislation, championed by Minister of Energy and Business, Senator Lisa Cummins, was passed in the Senate following its approval in the House of Assembly. This progressive move positions Barbados as a regional leader in supporting working families and promoting gender equality in parenting.
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Senator backs ‘automatic’ DNA tests in maintenance cases
Opposition Senator Andre Worrell has reignited discussions on the necessity of mandatory DNA testing at the commencement of child maintenance and paternity cases. Emphasizing the importance of fairness and transparency, Senator Worrell argued that such a measure would mitigate emotional and financial turmoil for all parties involved. His remarks came during a Senate debate on the Family Leave Bill, where he aligned with acting Chief Magistrate Deidre McKenna’s recent advocacy for automatic DNA testing in family court proceedings. McKenna, speaking at a panel on child support delinquency, proposed that Barbados adopt a system where DNA tests are conducted as soon as a man is brought to court for maintenance, ensuring paternity is confirmed before proceeding with financial obligations. Senator Worrell supported the Family Leave Bill, which extends maternity leave and introduces paid paternity leave, but stressed the need for equitable treatment of men through accessible paternity testing. He highlighted the legal and emotional challenges faced by men who later discover they are not the biological fathers of children they supported. Worrell suggested that early DNA testing could prevent such issues, fostering clarity and fairness in family law.
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Traffic study planned after gridlock forces school shutdown
In response to severe traffic congestion that forced the temporary closure of Charles F. Broome Memorial Primary School on Government Hill, authorities are crafting a comprehensive traffic management plan. The gridlock, which disrupted classes on Monday and Tuesday, prompted a high-level meeting involving officials from the Ministry of Education, the Barbados Police Service, and the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles emphasized the need for both immediate and long-term solutions to alleviate the issue. The meeting, held on Wednesday morning, focused on identifying measures to improve traffic flow during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Beckles highlighted the importance of parental cooperation in easing congestion and noted slight improvements in traffic conditions on Wednesday. Principal Paula Toppin introduced new rules, including restrictions on parking in the layby and designated waiting areas, to address the problem. While traffic appeared lighter, some parents expressed frustration over ongoing parking issues and a perceived lack of enforcement. Calls for increased police presence and stricter traffic management were echoed by parents, who described the situation as chaotic and disrespectful to teachers. Authorities are now conducting a traffic study to develop a broader, long-term strategy to ensure safety and order around the school.
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Police Probe Theft of Puppy in St. Johnston’s Village
Authorities in St. Johnston’s Village are actively investigating the alleged theft of a valuable puppy from a local residence over the weekend. The incident was reported to the Criminal Investigations Department (C.I.D.) by the distraught owner, who claimed her puppy went missing between 10 p.m. on Saturday and 7 a.m. on Sunday. The owner suspects a man known locally as ‘Cracky’ is responsible for the theft. The puppy, valued at EC$1,200, was reportedly tied to the gallery of the home before it disappeared.
Officers from the C.I.D. and Grays Farm Police Station conducted a thorough search of the area and interviewed residents, but no trace of the suspect or the puppy has been found. The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Individuals can contact the C.I.D. directly at 462-3913 or reach out to their nearest police station.
The case has sparked concern among local residents, highlighting the growing issue of pet theft in the area. Authorities are working diligently to resolve the matter and bring the perpetrator to justice.
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Over 100 Entries Flood Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2026 Logo Competition
Antigua and Barbuda has witnessed an extraordinary display of national pride and creativity as over 140 submissions poured in for the CHOGM 2026 Logo Design Competition. Launched in September by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, the competition invited nationals from home and abroad to design the official logo for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. This marks a historic milestone as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the prestigious event for the first time. The overwhelming participation from the diaspora underscores the unity and shared excitement among Antiguans and Barbudans as the nation readies itself to welcome global leaders next year. Each entry vividly captured the spirit, identity, and vibrancy of the nation, reflecting the exceptional talent of its people. H.E. Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, Chair of the CHOGM 2026 Taskforce, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, ‘The response has been phenomenal. It’s clear that Antiguans and Barbudans, wherever they are in the world, want to play a part in shaping how our nation is represented on the global stage.’ The winning design, to be announced on November 4, 2026, will serve as the official global logo for CHOGM 2026, prominently featured across event branding, signage, and international communications. The winner will also receive a grand prize of EC$5,000 and national recognition during the event. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, celebrating the remarkable talent showcased by its citizens worldwide.
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Antigua & Barbuda Transport Board Announces Temporary Road Closure on All Saints Road
The Antigua & Barbuda Transport Board (ABTB) has issued a public advisory regarding a temporary road closure at the intersection of All Saints Road and Independence Drive, near Robinson’s Service Station. The closure is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., to facilitate essential road marking works. Motorists are advised to exercise caution during this period and utilize alternative routes to avoid disruptions. The ABTB emphasized that the closure is necessary to ensure the safety and efficiency of the road infrastructure. For further inquiries, the public can contact the ABTB Road Marking & Signage Division at 480-8300/1. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining and improving transportation networks across the island.
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V.C. Bird International Airport Leads Customer Service Training for Taxi Operators
V.C. Bird International Airport has launched a collaborative initiative with the United Taxi Cooperative (UTC) to elevate customer service standards among its taxi operators. Spearheaded by the airport’s Customer Service Manager, Jan Walker-Brown, the program involves a series of intensive training sessions designed to refine the interaction skills of taxi drivers with both visitors and local residents. This initiative is a key component of the airport’s broader strategy to enhance the overall travel experience at Antigua and Barbuda’s primary international gateway. Airport officials emphasized the critical role taxi operators play as the first point of contact for arriving passengers, underscoring the potential positive impact of the training on both tourists and locals. The United Taxi Cooperative has expressed strong support for the initiative, viewing it as a crucial step in maintaining high service standards within the tourism and transportation sectors. This training is part of a comprehensive effort by V.C. Bird International Airport to ensure excellence in customer interactions across all facets of its operations.
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PHOTOS: Community Infrastructure Upgrades Underway in Parham
The town of Parham is currently undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades as part of a broader initiative to enhance local facilities and foster community growth. These essential improvement works, which are progressing steadily, aim to modernize the area’s public amenities and create a more sustainable environment for residents. The project includes the renovation of roads, utilities, and other critical infrastructure components, ensuring that Parham remains a vibrant and well-connected community. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of these upgrades in supporting long-term development goals and improving the quality of life for residents. The initiative has garnered widespread support from the community, with many expressing optimism about the positive changes it will bring. As the works continue, Parham is poised to become a model for other towns seeking to balance modernization with community-centric development.