In an unprecedented display of solidarity, a coalition of local businesses and international humanitarian organizations has come together to provide critical aid to the devastated communities of Hanover and St. Elizabeth in Jamaica. Spearheaded by principal donors Cortsland Hotel, Harmony for Humanity, and The Salvation Army, the initiative has mobilized millions of Jamaican dollars to address the severe crisis gripping these regions. The effort is bolstered by the leadership of distinguished diplomats and global humanitarian figures, including Major Raymoncil Pierre of The Salvation Army, former Honorary Consul for Barbados Mr. Pedro Corbin, and UN.org Global Peace Ambassador Dr. Onika Campbell-Rowe. The initiative also benefits from the advocacy of global musical ambassador Dr. Christopher Rowe (DJ SkinnyRich) and the leadership of Dr. Melesha Sinclair Harris of Harmony for Humanity. Hanover remains in dire straits, with communities cut off by damaged roads, lacking electricity and communication, and struggling to access food, clean water, and medical supplies. Rural districts such as Chambers Pen, Askenish, Clifton, and Mount Pleasant are among the worst affected, with many residents trapped and homes destroyed. This relief effort aims to bring hope to these often-overlooked communities. Cortsland Hotel, led by philanthropists Mr. Pedro Corbin and Mrs. Hazel Corbin, kickstarted the initiative by providing essential supplies such as mattresses and bedding. Harmony for Humanity, founded by Dr. Rowe, leverages cultural diplomacy and global partnerships to drive creative advocacy and empowerment programs. The Salvation Army, under Major Pierre’s leadership, contributes its extensive expertise in emergency response and logistics to ensure transparent and efficient aid distribution. Humanitarian operations are already in motion, with relief items documented, processed, and prepared for shipment to Jamaica. A 20-foot humanitarian container is being organized, with logistics underway to deliver supplies to vulnerable communities. The Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, has praised the coalition, emphasizing the importance of best practices, proper documentation, and long-term planning for sustainable recovery. The Salvation Army will also conduct an islandwide collection drive this Saturday, inviting the public to donate urgently needed items such as food, water, bedding, clothing, toiletries, and medical supplies. All contributions will be channeled through The Salvation Army’s established humanitarian network to ensure direct delivery to those in need.
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Central Bank of Barbados warns public of fraudulent website
The Central Bank of Barbados has issued a stern warning to the public regarding a deceptive website that mimics the Bank’s branding to defraud individuals. In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Bank identified bimpayer.pro as a fraudulent platform designed to mislead users and extract payments. The Bank emphasized that it never solicits money or payments from the public and urged citizens to avoid interacting with the site, sharing personal information, or making any transactions. The Central Bank reiterated that the only legitimate website for its national instant payment system, BiMPay, is www.bimpay.bb, accessible via the Bank’s primary website at www.centralbank.org.bb. Any other site claiming association with the Central Bank or BiMPay should be approached with skepticism. Individuals who have already engaged with the fraudulent site are advised to report the incident to the Barbados Police Service and seek guidance from the Central Bank’s Corporate Communications Unit.
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PHOTOS: Road Upgrades Underway in Tyrell’s
In a significant move to bolster local infrastructure, construction crews have commenced improvement works in Tyrell’s. This initiative is part of a broader, ongoing effort to modernize and enhance facilities across the region. The upgrades aim to address long-standing infrastructural deficiencies, ensuring that the area’s public amenities meet contemporary standards. Local authorities have emphasized that these improvements will not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract new investments and opportunities to the community. The project is expected to be completed in phases, with minimal disruption to daily activities. Residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about the long-term benefits it will bring to the area.
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Music with a mission: a family’s harmony of love, faith in cancer fight
For Kevin Moore and his family, music transcends mere performance—it’s a profound purpose. Through their Love Divine concert series under Trumpetboy Entertainment, they have transformed melodies into a lifeline for those battling cancer, raising $15,000 for Cancer Support Services (CSS). The funds, collected at the third installment of the series held on October 12 at the Frank Collymore Hall, were presented to the charity on Wednesday at its Belleville headquarters. The event brought together CSS executive members, including president Carlyle Best, executive director Janette Lynton, and management team member Francina Springer, who received the donation from Kevin and Kelita Moore of Trumpetboy Entertainment, alongside Joycelyn Moore, widow of the late Sylvian Moore. Moore expressed heartfelt gratitude to the artists, musicians, and the public whose collective efforts made the contribution possible. ‘This donation is a small token of our appreciation for the vital work CSS does in our community,’ he said. Carlyle Best praised the Moores for their unwavering commitment, emphasizing that the concert series goes beyond fundraising—it fosters connection, awareness, and hope. ‘You’ve set a standard, and we owe Trumpetboy Entertainment immense gratitude,’ he remarked. Best also highlighted the importance of engaging younger generations in CSS’s mission to ensure its longevity. Founded in 1996, CSS provides counseling, equipment loans, and public education, including regular PSA testing. As the organization prepares for its 30th anniversary, Best reaffirmed its commitment to supporting cancer patients. ‘We walk with you, holding your hand through it all,’ he said. CSS will also host its 11th annual conference at Accra Beach Hotel, focusing on education and awareness, furthering its outreach mission.
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Urlings Primary students donate to Oncology Unit
In a touching display of compassion and community spirit, students from Urlings Primary School have contributed to the fight against cancer by donating to the Oncology Unit at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The donation, raised through Breast Cancer Awareness activities organized earlier this term, was formally presented by members of the school’s Student Council during a visit to the hospital on Wednesday. Oncology Nurse Lisian Thomas expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing that the funds would directly support patients receiving treatment. School officials highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader educational strategy to instill values of empathy, responsibility, and civic engagement through student-driven projects. The gesture underscores the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of social responsibility among its young learners.
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New QEH discharge system rolls out to speed up bed management
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has implemented a new system of daily discharge boards across its wards to streamline patient flow, optimize bed management, and keep families informed throughout the care process. The initiative, introduced earlier this month, is being rolled out in phases and aims to provide patients, their families, and healthcare teams with clear insights into expected discharge dates, enabling better planning and coordination.
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Smith Highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s Blue Economy Vision at Global Forum in India
MUMBAI, India — Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy for Antigua and Barbuda, has solidified the twin-island nation’s role as a Caribbean pioneer in sustainable ocean development. Representing his country at India Maritime Week 2025, Smith participated in the second edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue,’ a high-profile international forum bringing together ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance global ocean governance and the Blue Economy. As a featured panelist during ‘Plenary 8: Oceans of Opportunity – Re-imagining the Global Blue Economy,’ Smith shared critical insights on human-capital development for small island states, emphasizing its significance in driving sustainable ocean industries. He highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strides in Blue Economy policies, including the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Ocean and Blue Economy (COBE), designed to train and empower future professionals in regional ocean sectors. Smith’s address resonated strongly with delegates, particularly young professionals and students, who praised his vision as inspiring and forward-thinking. During his visit, Smith engaged in discussions with environmental engineers and researchers from the Indian Institute of Engineering and the Indian Institute of Science, exploring potential collaborations in marine innovation, ocean technology, and sustainability research. Accompanied by Ms. Marver Woodley, Senior Operations and Policy Manager within the Department of the Blue Economy, Smith’s participation underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s growing reputation as a regional leader in ocean sustainability. At just 30 years old, Smith has emerged as one of the Caribbean’s youngest and most influential advocates for ocean policy. His message in Mumbai was unequivocal: small island states have the potential—and the responsibility—to shape the global Blue Economy. ‘Antigua and Barbuda is ready to lead,’ he declared.
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Barbados strengthening international ties to boost investment
Barbados is actively broadening its diplomatic and economic horizons to attract global investment, as the island nation shifts toward a greener and more diversified economic model. Speaking during a British trade mission to Barbados on Wednesday, Minister of Economic Affairs and Investment Kay McConney emphasized the government’s strategy to forge new partnerships across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. This move is part of a broader effort to diversify the nation’s economic base and strengthen ties with both traditional and emerging markets. McConney highlighted that Barbados has already expanded its diplomatic relations with countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and others, and is preparing to establish a physical diplomatic presence in India. The minister underscored that Barbados’ investment strategy is inclusive, welcoming funding from governments, private sectors, and international agencies. ‘Barbados is open for business to the entire world,’ she stated, emphasizing opportunities for all investors. While deepening ties with the United Kingdom remains a priority, McConney clarified that this is part of a comprehensive global strategy. Export Barbados CEO Mark Hill noted that UK companies are increasingly interested in Barbados’ green industrial initiatives, viewing the Caribbean as a prime location for sustainable development. Hill also highlighted the success of Barbados’ intellectual property investment program, which has attracted attention from European firms, including German companies. He projected that a $2 million increase in IP investment could yield an economic impact of $3 to $4 billion, aligning Barbados with global trends in decarbonization and innovation.
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Dominica is country most affected by impact of extreme weather event in 30 year period, according to Climate Risk Index
Dominica has been identified as the nation most susceptible to extreme weather events over the past three decades, according to the ‘Climate Risk Index 2026’ released by Germanwatch, an independent organization focused on development, environmental, and human rights issues. The report, presented during the 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) of the UN climate change gathering in Brazil on November 12, underscores the escalating devastation caused by climate-induced disasters, particularly in poorer nations. Drawing data from the EM-DAT international disaster database, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank, the report highlights Dominica’s acute vulnerability to severe weather, exemplified by the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused damages exceeding three times the country’s GDP at the time. The Climate Risk Index, published since 2006, provides a comprehensive assessment of the human and economic toll of extreme weather events globally. It ranks countries based on fatalities and economic losses over the past year and a 30-year period. Between 1995 and 2024, Dominica, Myanmar, Honduras, Haiti, and Grenada emerged as the most affected nations. In 2024 alone, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada were the hardest hit. The report also cites a World Weather Attribution study linking the unprecedented intensity of recent disasters to human-induced climate change. Since 1995, 9,700 extreme weather events have been documented, with storms accounting for a third of fatalities and $2.64 trillion in global damages. The Caribbean region’s recent experience with Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, further underscores this trend. Despite Dominica’s efforts to rebuild and become the world’s first climate-resilient nation, Germanwatch warns that climate change is an immediate and defining reality. The organization advocates for urgent global action, including reducing emissions, accelerating adaptation efforts, implementing solutions for loss and damage, and ensuring adequate climate finance.
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Barbados ‘greenfield hub’ for clean, tech-driven industry
Barbados is strategically positioning itself as a prime destination for clean, technology-driven industrial investment, capitalizing on Europe’s decarbonization efforts. Mark Hill, CEO of Export Barbados, emphasized the nation’s focus on intellectual property (IP) and tax incentives to attract global investors. Speaking at the sixth annual UK Trade Mission to Barbados Business Forum, Hill highlighted the country’s shift from traditional manufacturing to IP-led growth, ensuring creators feel secure in protecting their innovations.
Barbados has introduced the Patent Box initiative, offering tax reductions from 9% to 4.5% for manufacturers operating on the island. This framework, Hill noted, positions Barbados as a global leader in IP-based tax systems, surpassing even Malta and the EU for businesses earning under $750 million annually. The government aims to increase industry’s contribution to GDP from 5-10% to 20-25% over the next decade through this IP-focused strategy.
Export Barbados has also launched the GIGA programme, fostering sustainable, high-tech industrial growth and boosting exports. The initiative aims to transform Barbados into a regional innovation leader by focusing on advanced technology and green industries. Hill underscored the importance of intellectual capital, stating that IP is the core asset of any business, attracting further investment.
As European economies transition from “brownfield” sites to “greenfield” locations, Barbados has emerged as an attractive option for affordable, modern industrial development. Hill emphasized that the future of industrialization lies in robotics, automation, cybersecurity, and data-driven processes, rather than traditional labor-intensive methods.
Barbados is also enhancing its data security infrastructure, inviting investors to build customized data systems on the island. This positions Barbados as a secure, off-grid industrial hub with robust cybersecurity frameworks and access to cutting-edge technologies, enabling rapid scalability for businesses.