The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a forceful condemnation of the escalating domestic violence and femicide cases in the country, spurred by the tragic deaths of a mother and her two children in San Felipe Village earlier this week. In a strongly worded statement, the NTUCB labeled the incident as a ‘clear act of domestic violence, femicide, and filicide,’ raising concerns about the normalization of such violence in Belizean society. According to police statistics, as of August 2025, there have been 1,453 reported cases of domestic violence, with over 1,000 involving intimate partners and 1,089 female victims. The NTUCB emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms, including stronger law enforcement, legal changes, and the ratification of the International Labour Organization’s Convention 190, which addresses workplace violence and harassment. The organization called on law enforcement and the judiciary to ensure swift justice and better protection for survivors, while urging employers, unions, and communities to break the culture of silence surrounding abuse. The NTUCB also committed to integrating ILO Convention 190 principles into its policies and training programs, alongside awareness campaigns tied to International Men’s Day (November 19), the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25), and the global 16 Days of Activism campaign. ‘Violence and harassment have no place in our society or workplaces,’ the statement concluded. ‘Together, we can make safety and dignity a reality for all.’
分类： society
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Officials closely monitoring APUA as it investigates reports of electricity theft
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has heightened its vigilance as it probes into escalating reports of electricity theft across the region. This illicit activity, which involves unauthorized connections and meter tampering, has been identified as a significant contributor to financial losses and operational inefficiencies within the utility sector. APUA officials have underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that such practices not only undermine the integrity of the power grid but also pose severe safety risks to the public. In response, the authority has deployed advanced monitoring technologies and initiated a series of public awareness campaigns to deter potential offenders. Legal repercussions for those found guilty of electricity theft are expected to be stringent, with fines and potential imprisonment on the table. The crackdown comes amid growing concerns over the economic and infrastructural impact of these illegal activities, which have been exacerbated by rising energy costs and strained resources. APUA has urged citizens to report any suspicious activities, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring a fair and sustainable energy distribution system.
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COMMENTARY: Nioka Abbott-Balcombe, a banana producer from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines who empowers rural women and shares her wisdom, is recognized by IICA as a Leader of Rurality of the Americas
Nioka Abbott-Balcombe, a passionate farmer from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, has turned agriculture into both her livelihood and her mission. Specializing in bananas, cassava, sweet potato, yam, and vegetables, Nioka’s journey began in childhood under the guidance of her great-grandmother. Despite initially working in a restaurant to support her three children, she eventually returned to her roots, establishing her own farm with discipline and vision. Her dedication to farming has earned her recognition as one of the Leaders of Rurality of the Americas by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and she will soon receive the prestigious Soul of Rurality award. Nioka’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to food security and sustainability. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying crops to combat market fluctuations and advocates for natural, healthy foods, often sharing her experiences to inspire others. As chair of the WALCO cooperative, she empowers women in agriculture and introduces young people to farming, hoping to instill a love for the land in future generations. Nioka also reflects on the potential for urban agriculture, suggesting that even city dwellers can grow their own vegetables using simple containers. While she acknowledges the role of technology in modern farming, she remains selective, focusing on crops she can manage and those resistant to adverse weather. Nioka’s pride in her self-sufficiency and independence is evident, as she celebrates the legacy of her great-grandmother and the fulfillment she finds in her work.
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DLP crime commission: Barbados ‘ripe for a full reset’
Barbados is grappling with a severe youth crime crisis, prompting calls for a comprehensive societal overhaul. Verla De Peiza, Chair of the Democratic Labour Party Crime Commission, emphasized the urgency of the situation following the release of alarming police data. The statistics reveal a troubling surge in serious crimes committed by young people, underscoring a deepening social crisis. Acting Police Commissioner Erwin Boyce reported that 63 firearms and 1,750 rounds of ammunition have been seized this year, marking significant increases compared to 2023. Boyce expressed particular concern over the involvement of individuals aged 15 to 30, with hundreds already charged with major offenses. De Peiza highlighted the correlation between high youth unemployment and rising crime rates, stating that Barbados is ‘ripe for a full reset’ to enforce societal standards. She stressed the critical roles of the criminal justice and education systems in addressing the crisis, advocating for rehabilitation programs and preventative measures in schools. De Peiza also commended the Barbados Police Service for their efforts, calling for enhanced resources and independence to effectively combat crime. The situation demands immediate action to reclaim at-risk youth and restore societal stability.
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Antiguans and Barbudans in the tristate celebrate 44th Independence anniversary this Sunday
This Sunday, the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora residing in the tri-state area of New York will gather to commemorate their nation’s 44th anniversary of political independence. The annual Independence Thanksgiving Service, a cherished tradition, will be held at the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx at 4 pm. The event promises to be a heartfelt afternoon of reflection, featuring songs and prayers to honor the blessings bestowed upon the nation since its independence on November 1, 1981.
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Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard join French authorities in search for missing boat captain, enroute to Dominica
The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard is spearheading a critical search and rescue mission following a maritime incident near Guadeloupe. The operation focuses on locating Captain Phillippe “Daniel” Jules, a French national, who fell overboard from the vessel SV VOILACTUS late on October 21, 2025. The incident occurred approximately six nautical miles northeast of Guadeloupe, as Jules reportedly attempted to avoid the boat’s mast, leading to his unfortunate plunge into open waters. French authorities initially launched the search, with the ABDF taking over coordination efforts. The remaining ten crew members have been confirmed safe and are currently in Guadeloupe. The ABDF has expressed concern over the delayed reporting of the incident, which hindered an immediate response. Despite this, the Coast Guard is deploying all available resources, including collaboration with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Fort-de-France and the Commandement de la Gendarmerie, to ensure a successful rescue. The ABDF has also emphasized the importance of maritime safety, urging mariners to adhere to protocols such as using personal flotation devices and man-overboard alert systems. Lieutenant Randolph Best of the ABDF assured the public that all efforts are being made to achieve a favorable outcome, while extending support to Jules’ family and friends. Updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
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San Felipe Village Buries Mother and Children Lost in Horrific Arson
The tight-knit community of San Felipe gathered in profound sorrow today to bid farewell to Angelita Magana and her two children, Tishan Godoy, 6, and Shadia Magana, 17, who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire earlier this week. Authorities have confirmed that the blaze was a deliberate act of violence, shattering the family’s dreams of a fresh start in their new home. The perpetrator, Francisco Godoy, Angelita’s former common-law husband, had recently been released from prison after serving time for domestic violence and rape. Police allege that he doused the house with gasoline and set it ablaze, claiming the lives of Angelita and her children while leaving three others critically injured. The incident has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for stronger measures to combat domestic violence. Local schools, including St. Michael R.C. School and the Belize High School of Agriculture, paid heartfelt tributes to the victims, honoring Angelita’s dedication as an educator and Shadia’s academic achievements. Health Minister Kevin Bernard and the Cabinet have condemned the attack, emphasizing that gender-based violence remains a pressing national crisis. They urged communities to rally behind victims and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
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Three Female Finalists Announced in CHOGM 2026 Logo Design Contest
In a remarkable display of talent and innovation, three female designers have emerged as finalists in the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 logo design competition. Selected from an impressive pool of 141 submissions, these finalists embody the creative spirit and national pride of Antigua and Barbuda. The rigorous selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and branding experts. The winning logo, set to be unveiled on November 4 at Sandals Grande Antigua, will be revealed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. This event underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to fostering youth innovation and artistic expression as the nation prepares to host CHOGM 2026, a pivotal diplomatic gathering of 56 Commonwealth nations. The logo will symbolize unity, sustainability, and resilience, key themes of the summit, which aims to address global cooperation, climate action, and development. This marks the first time Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM, highlighting the country’s growing influence in international diplomacy and its commitment to advancing Commonwealth values.
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Abaco hurricane shelter finally opens
After years of setbacks, Abaco’s highly anticipated multipurpose hurricane shelter has officially opened its doors, marking a significant step forward in the region’s disaster preparedness efforts. The facility, located in Central Pines, Marsh Harbour, was formally handed over to the public during a ceremony held yesterday. Designed to withstand Category Five hurricanes, the shelter spans over 12,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 600 people. Strategically situated on one of the highest points in Marsh Harbour, it minimizes flood risks and features essential amenities such as wheelchair ramps, bathrooms, and a medical room. Minister of State for Disaster Risk Preparedness Leon Lundy emphasized that the shelter was built in response to the vulnerabilities exposed by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which left many families stranded on rooftops. He described the facility as both a tribute to those lost during the disaster and a beacon of resilience for the community. The project, initially estimated at $1.8 million, faced numerous delays and cost overruns, with the final price tag reaching $4.5 million. Funding was partially provided by international partners, including a $1 million donation from the Indian government. The shelter is the first of several planned facilities aimed at addressing shelter shortages in Abaco. During the ceremony, officials highlighted its dual purpose: serving as a safe haven during storms and a community hub for training, meetings, and youth programs in normal times. The government also approved a $17 million transfer to the Disaster Emergency Fund, signaling a renewed commitment to improving national disaster response. Attendees, including representatives from India, the United Nations, and China, praised The Bahamas for its dedication to climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
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Alabama man executed by nitrogen gas for murder over US$200 drug debt
In a highly contentious execution, Anthony Boyd, a 54-year-old inmate convicted of a brutal 1993 murder, was put to death using nitrogen gas in Alabama on Thursday. Boyd, who consistently claimed innocence, was sentenced in 1995 for the killing of Gregory Huguley, 32, over a $200 drug debt. The execution took place at 6:33 pm Central time at Atmore state prison, marking the 40th execution in the U.S. this year—the highest number since 2012. Prosecutors alleged that Boyd and three accomplices abducted Huguley at gunpoint, bound him with duct tape, doused him in gasoline, and set him ablaze at a baseball field. Boyd’s conviction relied heavily on the testimony of co-defendant Quintay Cox, who avoided the death penalty. Nitrogen hypoxia, the method used, involves suffocating the prisoner by pumping nitrogen gas into a face mask. This method has drawn sharp criticism from UN experts, who deem it cruel and inhumane. While 23 U.S. states have abolished the death penalty, and three others have moratoriums, President Donald Trump has advocated for its expansion, particularly for severe crimes. Alabama, alongside Texas, has executed five inmates this year, trailing Florida’s 14 executions.