In a landmark development for Caribbean regional cooperation, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) has inked two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at bolstering fisheries management and advancing the Blue Economy. The first agreement, signed on September 30, 2025, during the Sixteenth Special Meeting of the CRFM Ministerial Council in Saint Kitts and Nevis, formalizes a partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This historic accord was executed by Dr. Marc Williams, Executive Director of the CRFM Secretariat, and H.E. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA), an annual event organized by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat. The MoU, spanning 2025 to 2028, aims to enhance governance, management, and resilience in fisheries, while fostering youth and women empowerment, economic development, and research collaboration in the sector. Dr. Williams emphasized the importance of formalizing the long-standing informal relationship between the CRFM and OECS, which includes eight shared member states. Dr. Jules highlighted the agreement’s potential to elevate collaboration to new heights, particularly in areas such as safety at sea, insurance for fishers, and the integration of agriculture and fisheries. Earlier in September, the CRFM also signed a five-year MoU with the University of the West Indies (UWI), represented by Professor Carl Justin Robinson, Campus Principal of the UWI Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda. This agreement focuses on academic and educational collaboration in blue economy development, marine spatial planning, climate change adaptation, and ecosystem resilience. The Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), a joint initiative involving the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, UWI, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities, will play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts. These agreements mark a significant step forward in regional cooperation, aiming to create sustainable and inclusive growth in the Caribbean’s fisheries and Blue Economy sectors.
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All schools closed Friday in Antigua and Barbuda
In response to an ongoing Flash Flood Warning, the Ministry of Education in Antigua and Barbuda has declared that all public schools will remain closed on Friday, October 10. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff, comes as the twin-island nation braces for severe weather conditions. Private educational institutions have also been urged to suspend classes for the day, aligning with the government’s precautionary measures. This announcement underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing public safety during natural disasters. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the impending floods.
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Minister Warns of Growing Health Threats from Diabetes and Falling Vaccination Rates
Senator Michael Joseph, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, has issued a stark warning about the escalating health challenges in Antigua and Barbuda. The nation is grappling with a dual burden: a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a concerning decline in vaccination rates globally. Speaking on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion,’ Joseph emphasized that the Caribbean region currently leads in the prevalence of NCDs, which are now the primary cause of death. He highlighted high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, strokes, and cancer as the most pressing concerns, noting that these conditions are placing immense financial strain on the country’s health budget. ‘Unless we find mechanisms to address these issues, the financial demands will create a health crisis worse than the current situation,’ he stated. Joseph also expressed alarm over the global trend of declining vaccination coverage, particularly in developed nations where school vaccination requirements are being rolled back. He warned that this could lead to the resurgence of infectious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and polio in the Caribbean. Given Antigua and Barbuda’s reliance on tourism and its strong travel connections, the senator stressed the heightened risk of imported communicable diseases. He revealed that the government is collaborating with regional and international health partners, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), to bolster prevention and treatment strategies. Joseph urged households to reconsider their stance on vaccinations, emphasizing the critical need to protect public health and avoid further strain on the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
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Grapes, Green Bananas and Pears saw major price increases in July, CPI reveals
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for July 2025, released by the Statistics Division under the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance, reveals significant price increases across various categories, particularly in food and beverages. The overall CPI rose by 1.2% year-on-year, with the Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages index increasing by 1.0%, reversing a 1.0% decline in June. The All Items Less Food and Energy index also saw a 1.3% rise over the same period. The Food index surged by 1.4%, driven by notable increases in the Fruits subcategory (+14.6%), Meats and Meat Products (+4.8%), and Bread and Cereals (+3.3%). Among fruits, Red Seedless Grapes experienced the highest spike at 66.7%, followed by Green Bananas and Pears, both up by 16.2%. Other contributors to the food price hike included Milk, Cheese, and Eggs (+1.9%) and Sugar, Jams, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+1.1%). On a monthly basis, the CPI for July 2025 increased by 1.4%, with the Food index rising by 1.0%. Key drivers of this monthly increase were Sugars, Jam, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+3.6%), Milk, Cheese, and Eggs (+3.0%), and Fish and Seafood (+2.4%). The All Items Less Food and Energy index also rose by 1.6%, influenced by significant increases in Recreation and Culture (+6.5%) and Transport Services (+20.4%). The CPI methodology, which measures inflation by tracking price changes of goods and services consumed by households, relies on monthly and quarterly data collection from supermarkets and service providers. For detailed insights, the full CPI report for July 2025 is available on the Statistics Division’s official website.
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Health Records to Go Digital Across All Clinics, Joseph Announces
Antigua and Barbuda is making significant strides in modernizing its healthcare infrastructure by implementing a digital system for patient records across all public clinics. Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment, announced the initiative during a recent appearance on ABS-TV’s ‘Government in Motion.’ This project is a key component of the government’s Smart Health Facilities program, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
The initiative involves the integration of patient information using the Selma software, ensuring seamless access to medical records across clinics nationwide. Senator Joseph emphasized that this system will allow healthcare providers to access patient data, including lab results and doctor reports, regardless of the clinic’s location. This innovation aims to enhance communication between hospitals and clinics, addressing gaps in the primary care system.
The digital upgrade is part of a broader strategy to strengthen primary healthcare, following a regional health cooperation agreement signed between Antigua and Barbuda and PAHO. The government envisions a fully connected healthcare network, linking major medical centers such as the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. This transformation is expected to improve patient care, streamline healthcare delivery, and create a more resilient health system.
By reducing the need for patients to repeat their medical history at multiple facilities, the initiative promises to make healthcare faster and more efficient. This digital transition marks a pivotal step in Antigua and Barbuda’s journey toward a modernized and responsive healthcare system.
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VIDEO: Antiguan wins all expense paid trip to Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival
Antiguan wins all expense paid trip to Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival
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Man and Woman Shot During Alleged Robbery at Fort James Beach
A man and his female companion are currently hospitalized after being shot during an alleged robbery attempt at Fort James Beach late Thursday night. According to ABS News, the incident occurred around 11:30 pm when the couple was in a rented vehicle on the beach. Approximately three gunmen approached them, and as the man attempted to drive away, the assailants opened fire. The man sustained a gunshot wound to his right shoulder, while the woman was shot in one of her hands. Despite their injuries, the man managed to drive both himself and his companion to the hospital, where they are now receiving medical attention. Reports indicate that the vehicle bears at least three bullet marks. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or Crimestoppers at 800-8477.
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Sandals, Beaches win 16 World Travel Awards
Jamaica and its tourism industry celebrated a historic night at the 2025 World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony, held at the Sandals Grande St Lucian in St Lucia. The event, which brought together government leaders and hospitality professionals, highlighted the Caribbean nation’s exceptional achievements in travel and tourism. Jamaica was crowned the Caribbean’s Leading Destination for the 19th consecutive year, while the Jamaica Tourist Board secured the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board award for the 17th straight year. Additionally, the Port of Ocho Rios and the Port of Montego Bay were recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port and Leading Home Port, respectively. Jamaica also claimed the title of Caribbean’s Leading Family Travel Destination 2025. Sandals and Beaches resorts were the stars of the evening, collectively winning 16 awards. Sandals Resorts International was named the Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 32nd year in a row, while Beaches Turks and Caicos celebrated its 18th win as the Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort. Other notable wins included Sandals Dunn’s River as the Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort and Sandals South Coast as the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort. Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, emphasized the dedication of the team and the commitment to evolving guest experiences. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett praised the resilience and hard work of Jamaica’s tourism stakeholders, urging them to build on this success. Other Jamaican winners included Island Routes, Chukka Caribbean Adventures, and Rose Hall Great House Tour, showcasing the nation’s diverse tourism offerings.
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Peru: Congres zet president Dina Boluarte af te midden van oplopende criminaliteit
In a historic and unanimous decision, the Peruvian Congress voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office on October 10, 2025. The move followed a late-night session, hours after a violent shooting at a concert in Lima, which intensified public outrage over the country’s escalating crime rates. Boluarte, 63, who had long struggled with plummeting approval ratings and accusations of corruption and excessive use of force against protesters, was deemed unfit to fulfill her duties. The motion for her removal garnered support from nearly all political factions, including parties that had previously backed her. With no vice president in place, Congress President José Jerí, 38, was swiftly sworn in as interim leader. Jerí pledged to prioritize combating crime and restoring national security while emphasizing the need for national reconciliation and a stable transition. Boluarte’s ouster marks the sixth presidential change in Peru since 2018, highlighting the nation’s persistent political turmoil. She assumed power in December 2022 after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, was arrested for attempting to dissolve Congress. Her tenure was marred by widespread protests, particularly in rural and indigenous regions, often met with harsh crackdowns. As Jerí takes the helm, Peru enters a new chapter focused on addressing the root causes of its crises. The coming months will be pivotal as the country aims to achieve greater political stability and safety ahead of the general elections scheduled for April 2026.
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Zon, warmte en enkele buien in de middag
Today begins across the country with a warm and humid morning atmosphere, accompanied by a veil of high cloud cover. The sun makes an early appearance, setting the stage for a sultry start to the day. In the coastal plains, temperatures quickly rise to around 32 to 33 degrees Celsius, with oppressive humidity making it feel even hotter. An east to southeast wind occasionally brings some relief, particularly in the late morning. As the day progresses, cumulus clouds develop into larger rain areas. Between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, there is a chance of localized showers or thunderstorms, especially in the Brokopondo, Sipaliwini, and parts of Commewijne regions. Brief rain showers may also occur in Paramaribo and Wanica, followed by rapid clearing. By evening, the skies clear almost everywhere. Temperatures gradually drop to around 25 to 26 degrees, and the air feels fresher due to a light easterly breeze. The interior remains partly cloudy but without significant precipitation.