Cricket West Indies (CWI) has initiated the second cycle of its Foundation Level & Refreshers Cricket Coaching Course across the Leeward Islands and St. Vincent, marking a significant step in its strategic mission to build a robust coaching network in the Caribbean. The program, which commenced on October 2, 2025, at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua & Barbuda, is designed to prepare coaches for the reopening of primary schools and the revival of community-based grassroots cricket initiatives. Sessions are scheduled to take place in Montserrat, the British and US Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Anguilla, and St. Vincent, culminating on October 30. Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, underscored the organization’s dedication to enhancing coaching standards and cricket infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of early-stage coaching education in fostering sustainable growth for the sport. He highlighted the collaboration with government and private sector partners to expand age-group cricket, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable pathway for aspiring cricketers. The coaching courses, led by seasoned instructors Mr. Brendon Ramlal and Mr. Keshava Ramphal, focus on critical areas such as child protection, tactical understanding, physical fitness, and effective communication. CWI has also mandated that all participants complete the UNICEF Child Protection Course and a Cricket Safeguarding & Child Protection Workshop to ensure a safe environment for young athletes. These initiatives are expected to significantly benefit youth programs like the Republic Bank Limited (RBL) Five for Fun Cricket and the Girls Under-16/19 Territorial Cricket Hub. Since its inception, the program has trained over 150 coaches across multiple Caribbean nations, including Dominica, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, and Jamaica, reinforcing CWI’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting cricket at the grassroots level.
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Eye Witness News
NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Bahamian astronaut Aisha Bowe takes center stage on the cover of the newly launched UP Magazine, the official inflight publication of Bahamasair. This marks the beginning of a reimagined travel experience for passengers, blending cultural authenticity with modern exploration. The inaugural issue, available on flights starting this week, features Bowe in her space suit, embodying Bahamian excellence and the spirit of global discovery. Produced by Beyond The Plan Publishing, the magazine invites travelers to explore The Bahamas beyond conventional tourist routes, offering stories that celebrate the nation’s rich culture, adventure, and innovation. Highlights include an immersive feature on Inagua’s flamingo safari, a spotlight on Eleuthera’s off-grid eco-resort, and insights into sustainable travel experiences across the islands. Bowe also shares her inspiring journey, reflecting on how her Bahamian heritage propelled her to become a Blue Origin astronaut. Striking visuals capture her cycling at Grand Isle Resort, sailing Exuma’s turquoise waters, and savoring conch salad at the iconic Chat N Chill Bar. For the first time, the magazine introduces a Business section, with REMAX Bahamas Realtor Matt Sweeting offering insights into lucrative real estate opportunities. UP Magazine is more than a travel guide—it’s a celebration of Bahamian life, featuring recurring sections like “Dine Around,” which highlights local culinary gems. Editor-in-Chief Inderia Saunders emphasized the magazine’s mission to craft an authentic Bahamian narrative, creating a keepsake that doubles as a comprehensive travel guide. Published quarterly and available across all 22 Bahamasair destinations, UP Magazine extends its reach through exclusive digital content, engaging passengers both in-flight and on the ground. With its debut, the magazine aspires to become the definitive voice of Bahamian travel, fostering deeper connections between visitors and the islands while promoting sustainable and culturally rich tourism.
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FEATURED PHOTO: Vista from Penville
Penville, a small yet profoundly significant locale in Dominica, holds a complex tapestry of emotions for its inhabitants and visitors alike. For many Dominicans, it is a place steeped in memories, some of which are tinged with sorrow and loss. Yet, despite its association with tragedy, Penville remains a testament to the resilience and enduring beauty of the region. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and serene vistas, Penville offers a poignant reminder of the past while continuing to captivate with its natural charm. Its dual identity as a site of remembrance and a beacon of beauty makes it a unique and cherished part of Dominica’s cultural and geographical heritage.
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Scores of people seeking ‘vouchers’ shake Financial Complex
An unexpected evacuation occurred at the Financial Complex in Kingstown on Monday, triggered by what employees described as ‘tremors.’ However, investigations suggest that the unusual vibrations might have been caused by an unusually large crowd gathering inside the building. Witnesses reported that a significant number of people were on the upper floors seeking vouchers for household appliances such as fridges and stoves, part of an ongoing giveaway event. ‘The traffic up there was extremely heavy,’ a public servant told iWitness News. ‘The area was packed with people collecting vouchers for appliances.’ The five-storey building, which houses the Office of the Prime Minister on the top floor and the ministries of finance and foreign affairs on other levels, was evacuated around noon after employees reported feeling tremors. Despite the incident, no seismic activity was recorded in or near St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Monday. The government has yet to issue an official statement, and normal operations resumed by Tuesday morning. The Financial Complex, commissioned in the early 1990s, stands on land reclaimed over 50 years ago.
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Blackmoore: Firearms task force to undergo polygraph testing, community policing unit approved
In a significant move to bolster national security, Dominica’s Minister for National Security, Rayburn Blackmoore, has announced that members of the newly established firearms task force will undergo polygraph testing. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat gun-related crimes and ensure the integrity of law enforcement operations. The task force, mandated by law, is dedicated to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting individuals involved in the illegal possession, trafficking, and use of firearms. Blackmoore emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards within the unit, stating, ‘We have to ensure that members of that task force are of the right caliber so that operations cannot be compromised.’ The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security has been instructed to facilitate the polygraphing process for all officers in the unit, including junior ranks and gazetted officers. Blackmoore also highlighted the establishment of an anti-illicit firearms interagency investigative unit, which includes officers from the Financial Intelligence Unit, customs, and excise duty. He praised the collaborative efforts of regional and international partners in sourcing professionals to conduct the tests, noting that their support is critical for the initiative’s success. Additionally, Blackmoore revealed the creation of a specialized unit for community policing, further underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety.
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Teen Charged Over Cashew Hill Assault
A 16-year-old boy has been apprehended and charged in connection with a violent incident that occurred on Cashew Hill Public Road in April. The teenager is accused of assaulting a 15-year-old and allegedly carrying a metal pipe during the altercation on April 11. Additionally, he faces a charge of disorderly conduct by fighting. The arrest was made in the presence of a guardian, and the case has been referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation. The incident has raised concerns about youth violence in the area, prompting calls for increased community vigilance and preventive measures. Authorities are continuing their investigations to ensure justice is served and to address the underlying issues contributing to such incidents.
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AL95 now Tropical Storm Jerry; NODS urges preparedness
As Tropical Storm Jerry continues to develop, the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has issued urgent warnings to residents of Antigua and Barbuda to prepare for potential severe weather conditions. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the storm, which poses significant risks to the region. According to the latest updates from the Met Office, there is a 47% chance of storm-force winds impacting Barbuda and a 10% chance of hurricane-force winds. For Antigua, the probabilities stand at 22% and 1%, respectively. Residents are advised to stay informed as the situation evolves. NODS emphasizes the importance of having a well-stocked emergency kit, including non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, a battery-operated radio, flashlight, medications, and personal hygiene items. Special attention should be given to vulnerable family members, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with special needs. Additionally, homeowners are urged to secure their properties against potential wind and rain damage and to identify the nearest shelter locations. The Met Office assures that updates will be provided as the storm progresses, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared.
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Caribbean Development Bank hosts 22nd annual meeting for Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is co-hosting the 22nd Annual Meeting of the Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network (IAMNet) in Barbados from October 6 to 9, 2025. This prestigious event, organized in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank’s Independent Consultation and Investigation Mechanism (MICI) and the Office of the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, has drawn nearly 70 accountability professionals from development finance institutions worldwide. Attendees include representatives from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other global financial entities. IAMNet, established to foster cooperation among independent accountability bodies, aims to promote best practices in addressing complaints related to development projects, particularly those concerning environmental and social impacts. CDB President, Mr. Daniel Best, emphasized the importance of accountability in development finance, stating, ‘As development challenges grow more complex, strong accountability frameworks become even more critical.’ The conference agenda addresses pressing issues such as the stagnation of Sustainable Development Goals progress, declining aid budgets, and climate-related disasters. Key topics include IAM policy reviews, safeguarding mechanisms for complainants, accountability in climate projects, technological innovations, and strategies to combat retaliation. A dedicated session on October 8 will focus on capacity building for civil society organizations, early conflict resolution, and strengthening collaborations between IAMs and development advocates. Mr. Best highlighted the critical role of accountability in the Caribbean, noting, ‘In the Caribbean, accountability isn’t a luxury; it’s a matter of survival.’ Since 2015, CDB has maintained the Office of Integrity, Compliance, and Accountability, ensuring institutional integrity and ethical practices through its Projects Complaints Mechanism and whistleblowing procedures.
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New President of Barbados elected
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic has been unanimously elected as the next President of Barbados, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape. The confirmation of his election took place during a joint session of the House of Assembly and the Senate, where no objections were raised against his sole nomination. This nomination was jointly endorsed by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, showcasing a rare display of bipartisan unity. Speaker of the House Arthur Holder declared that, in the absence of any objections, a formal vote was unnecessary, and the nomination was officially approved. In their remarks, both Prime Minister Mottley and Opposition Leader Thorne praised Bostic’s qualifications and character. Thorne highlighted Bostic’s steady and respected presence in Barbadian society, while Mottley emphasized that he embodies all the essential qualities needed for the presidency at this pivotal time. Bostic’s election reflects a collective confidence in his ability to lead and represent Barbados with dignity and integrity.
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PM promises payments by Christmas as workers march on Parliament
Prime Minister Philip Davis of The Bahamas has vowed to disburse overdue payments to public sector workers before Christmas, following a protest led by union leaders outside the House of Assembly. The demonstration, organized by the Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) and the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT), saw workers demanding their long-awaited wage increases. Union presidents Kimsley Ferguson and Belinda Wilson spearheaded the rally, with chants of ‘pay us our money’ echoing through the streets. The delay in implementing government wage hikes has been a persistent issue, with union officials accusing the administration of sidelining key worker groups and failing to engage in proper consultations. Addressing the crowd, PM Davis emphasized his personal commitment to resolving the matter, stating, ‘The decision to give y’all some money came from me, from my heart. I understood that y’all need that. It was nothing negotiated, I’m trying to help all of you, y’all will be paid and the payment will be before Christmas.’ Last month, the government announced that public servants who missed earlier pay raises would receive their increments in December, retroactive to September. Each employee is expected to receive at least two salary increases, though the exact amounts will vary by category.