Dominica recently hosted its annual ‘Market Day with a Difference,’ a vibrant celebration of the island’s rich cultural heritage and agricultural prowess. Organized by DEXIA in collaboration with market authorities, the event highlighted the nation’s acclaimed natural produce through a colorful display of local traditions and craftsmanship. The festivities aimed to honor the invaluable contributions of farmers, vendors, fisherfolk, tenants, and loyal patrons of the Roseau Market, whose dedication has played a pivotal role in shaping the market’s storied history. The event underscored the importance of community and the enduring legacy of Dominica’s agricultural sector. Attendees were treated to a sensory feast of fresh produce, handmade goods, and cultural performances, making it a memorable occasion for all. The initiative not only celebrated the island’s natural bounty but also reinforced the significance of sustainable practices and local entrepreneurship in fostering economic growth and cultural preservation.
分类： society
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Urgent call for contributions from the Barbadian public and business community
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact across the Caribbean, preliminary assessments reveal a grim scenario. The storm has claimed 49 lives as of Thursday, with infrastructure and housing damages exceeding an estimated $500 million. The scale of this dual humanitarian and infrastructural crisis has prompted the establishment of the official Hurricane Melissa Regional Relief Fund. This initiative aims to channel financial aid to the hardest-hit regions—Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. Authorities are urgently appealing to the Barbadian public and local businesses for immediate contributions to bolster recovery efforts. These funds are critical for delivering emergency supplies and restoring vital infrastructure. For local donations, contributors are directed to use the Central Bank of Barbados’s official banking details, ensuring funds are allocated correctly to specific relief accounts for each country. International donors are also encouraged to follow detailed wire transfer instructions to support the relief efforts effectively. The collective response will play a pivotal role in mitigating the disaster’s long-term effects on the affected communities.
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Chinese ambassador awards scholarships at UWI Confucius Institute
The University of the West Indies Confucius Institute in Barbados recently celebrated the achievements of students from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions with the prestigious Chinese Ambassador Scholarships. This event highlights the island’s deepening engagement with Mandarin Chinese and its culture. Dr Che Leon Corbin, the local co-director of the Confucius Institute, emphasized the institute’s global standing, ranking among the top 10 of 500 Confucius Institutes worldwide. He noted that the program fosters cultural connections, making China feel closer to Barbados. The scholarships, funded by the Chinese Embassy in Barbados, provide financial support for students excelling in Mandarin studies, enabling them to cover educational expenses. Tyrone Yearwood, a Chinese teacher at the Institute, clarified the distinction between the Ambassador Scholarship and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) government scholarship, with the latter offering full financial support for studying in China. Professor Nie Lu, the Chinese Director of the Institute, praised the students and teachers for their dedication, emphasizing the importance of language learning in strengthening international ties. The ceremony recognized students from various schools, including St George Primary, Harrison College, and others, as well as tertiary students like Genesis Chester and Richellia Stuart. The event underscored the role of cultural exchange and language learning in building global friendships. Professor Nie encouraged the students to continue their efforts in mastering Mandarin and embracing Chinese culture, calling them pioneers in this transformative process.
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St Elizabeth farmers count millions in losses after Hurricane Melissa
Farmers in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, are grappling with catastrophic losses estimated in the millions of dollars after Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, ravaged the region earlier this week. The hurricane decimated agricultural fields, destroying vital crops and leaving a trail of devastation in one of the country’s most important farming areas.
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First Independence Day Baby Welcomed at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre
In a heartwarming celebration of national pride, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed its first Independence Day baby of the year. The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre proudly announced the birth of a healthy baby boy at 5:35 a.m. on the nation’s 44th Independence Day. The newborn, weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces, was delivered to delighted parents Glengield and Roleeka King-Henry. Hospital staff expressed immense joy, describing the birth as a symbolic and special moment to commemorate the twin-island nation’s milestone. The medical team extended heartfelt congratulations to the family and warmly welcomed the newborn, affectionately dubbed “the little king.” This joyous event not only marks a personal milestone for the King-Henry family but also serves as a beacon of hope and unity for the nation as it celebrates its independence.
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POEM: Happy Independence Day Antigua And Barbuda
As the sun rises over the picturesque islands of Antigua and Barbuda, the nation comes alive with the vibrant spirit of Independence Day. This cherished occasion is marked by heartfelt celebrations, as citizens unite to honor their freedom and pay tribute to the heroes who paved the way for their sovereignty. The national flag soars proudly against the azure sky, symbolizing the resilience and strength of a people who fought valiantly for their liberty. Songs of freedom echo across the land, accompanied by joyous dances that reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Families gather to remember their loved ones, holding them close in their hearts even as they celebrate the day’s significance. Stories of brave heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence are recounted, inspiring a deep sense of gratitude and pride. As evening falls, the night sky is illuminated by dazzling fireworks, painting a canvas of light and hope. Antigua and Barbuda, a land of peace and love, remains deeply rooted in the hearts of its people. On this special day, citizens reaffirm their commitment to unity and freedom, marching hand in hand and singing in unison. The bond of freedom elevates their spirits, reminding them of the strength found in their collective voices. As the celebrations continue, the nation prays for lasting peace, joy, and prosperity. Happy Independence Day to all, and may the spirit of freedom resonate far and wide.
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PM Browne Promises Food Sovereignty Through Domestic Agriculture Investments
Antigua and Barbuda is making significant strides toward achieving food sovereignty, as announced by Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The government is channeling resources into enhancing agricultural infrastructure, establishing abattoirs, and developing a state-of-the-art agro-processing hub. These initiatives aim to reduce dependency on imported food and bolster local production. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the dual benefits of these efforts, stating, ‘By feeding ourselves, we are feeding our pride and preserving our sovereignty.’ He also highlighted the guaranteed markets for local farmers, ensuring their products have a stable and reliable outlet. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s self-sufficiency and economic resilience in the face of global food supply challenges.
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Police Search for Suspect Who Stole Visitor’s Bag
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an investigation into a reported theft at Old Runaway Beach, targeting a visitor’s personal belongings. The incident occurred between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, when the victim’s brown shoulder bag, containing travel documents, a rental vehicle key, wallet, identification and credit cards, and an undisclosed amount of cash, was stolen from her parked vehicle. Police swiftly responded to the report and managed to recover the bag and most of its contents, though the cash remains missing. The recovered items have been returned to the visitor, and efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspect(s). Authorities are urging anyone with information or who witnessed suspicious activity in the area to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913. In light of the incident, the police are also advising residents and visitors to exercise caution and secure their belongings, particularly in public spaces like beaches. The Police Administration emphasized the importance of public cooperation in safeguarding visitors and maintaining Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a secure and welcoming tourist destination, which is crucial for the nation’s economy.
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Fear of deportation triggers Venezuelan exodus from Trinidad and Tobago
Tensions surrounding Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) have escalated dramatically following a recent government crackdown on irregular migration. On October 27, the Ministry of Homeland Security issued a stern directive mandating the detention and deportation of all undocumented migrants, stating that no further Orders of Supervision would be issued. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the Venezuelan community, prompting widespread fear, displacement, and a mass exodus from the country.
Many Venezuelans, both documented and undocumented, have begun selling their belongings, abandoning their rented homes, and quitting their jobs in factories, farms, and workshops. The Hispanic Cultural Centre La Casita in Arima has urged the government and society to remain calm, warning against what it describes as a ‘migrant hunt.’ Andreina Briceño Ventura-Brown, the center’s director, highlighted the spread of misinformation and the vulnerability of even those holding UNHCR cards, who may still face harassment under local laws.
Social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp are flooded with posts from Venezuelans selling appliances, motorbikes, and furniture as they prepare to leave. Mariana Lopez, a 34-year-old Venezuelan in Arima, shared her decision to sell her possessions and move to Brazil, stating, ‘I don’t want to be caught and sent back. I’ll go to Brazil even if I have to start from zero.’ Similarly, Jesus Andrade, a mechanic in San Fernando, quit his job, fearing detention.
The government’s measures have drawn criticism for lacking compassion. Rosa Medina, a mother of two, lamented, ‘They talk about human rights, but they show no humanity to us. Many of us have been here for years working and paying taxes.’ Eduardo Ramirez was more blunt, accusing the government of double standards: ‘This government wants Venezuela’s gas but treats Venezuelans here like garbage.’
Even Venezuelans with legal status face challenges. One family with valid work permits revealed that their children are unable to attend school due to bureaucratic delays in processing student visas. ‘The kids lose classes while the Ministry of Homeland Security doesn’t respond,’ they said.
The exodus extends beyond TT, with many Venezuelans planning to relocate to countries like Guyana, Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, where governments are welcoming Venezuelan workers and investors. Travel agencies in Venezuela and TT have reported a surge in ticket requests, with entire families purchasing one-way tickets. Luis Arias, a travel agent in Venezuela, noted that requests from Venezuelans in TT to travel to Brazil, Argentina, and Guyana have tripled in recent weeks.
Before the UNHCR ceased operations in TT in August 2025, the country hosted over 40,000 Venezuelans under various forms of humanitarian protection. Today, social media is rife with posts like ‘Selling fridge and bed – leaving for Brazil’ and ‘Urgent sale of motorcycle, need to leave before November.’ For many Venezuelans, TT was once a land of opportunity. Now, they are fleeing in fear, leaving behind their livelihoods and dreams.
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JN strengthens humanitarian response for Melissa recovery
KINGSTON, Jamaica – In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which has left a trail of destruction across western Jamaica, the JN Group has intensified its humanitarian efforts to aid recovery. The organization has revived the ISupportJamaica Fund to facilitate donations from overseas Jamaicans, targeting relief and reconstruction in severely impacted areas such as early childhood institutions, healthcare facilities, and homes for the elderly. Claudine Allen, General Manager of the JN Foundation, expressed gratitude for the global response, highlighting contributions from Jamaicans in the UK, including essential supplies destined for Food for the Poor. Donations can be made through JN locations in the UK, remittances via JN Money Services, or direct bank transfers to JN Bank account 2094768349. Further details are available on the JN Foundation website. Beyond financial aid, the JN Group is mobilizing employee volunteers in collaboration with St John’s Ambulance and the Jamaica Automobile Association to provide medical care and debris clearance. The first volunteer team will assist communities in St Elizabeth on November 2, with plans for continued support. Allen emphasized the urgent need for medical assistance, as local hospitals are overwhelmed and debris hampers movement. She also stressed the importance of sustainable aid, leveraging the JN Circle network, which has distributed $20 million in aid over the past two years. Allen urged Jamaicans to volunteer through organizations like the Council for Voluntary Social Services, calling for unity in recovery efforts. ‘We will only recover and rebuild if we do it together,’ she concluded.