His Excellency Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, President of the Gabonese Republic, has commenced an official visit to Cuba, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit, which began on Friday, September 26, 2025, and will conclude on September 29, underscores the growing diplomatic ties and mutual commitment to fostering cooperation. This marks President Oligui Nguema’s first official trip to Cuba since assuming office in May 2025. During his stay, he is scheduled to engage in high-level discussions with Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez. The talks are anticipated to focus on expanding the contractual framework of bilateral relations, reflecting the shared aspirations of both nations to strengthen their partnership. Additionally, President Oligui Nguema will participate in various activities and visit key sites of interest, further solidifying the cultural and diplomatic bonds between Gabon and Cuba.
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In the midst of the difficult context, we are betting on collective intelligence
In a concerted effort to address Cuba’s ongoing energy crisis, President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez embarked on a comprehensive tour of the nation’s thermoelectric plants. His visit included the Antonio Maceo plant in Santiago de Cuba and the Lidio Ramón Pérez facility in Holguín, where he engaged with executives and workers to assess the recovery of the National Electric System (SEN). The President’s tour comes at a critical juncture, as the country grapples with prolonged blackouts and significant generation deficits.
At the Renté plant, General Director Jesús Aguilar Hernández provided an update on the facility’s operational status. Despite facing numerous unforeseen outages, the plant is progressing toward stability, particularly with the recent activation of its 70-megawatt (MW) block five following partial maintenance. Units six and three are currently generating 50 MW each, while unit four remains in technical shutdown since 2023. However, a recovery strategy is underway as part of the Government Plan to bolster the SEN. Light maintenance is scheduled for December on units six and three, aiming to enhance the plant’s capacity by year-end.
President Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of quality maintenance across all units, including corrective work on block five, to ensure sustained energy recovery. He lauded the tireless efforts of Cuba’s electrical workers, describing their work as ‘heroic’ and ‘intensive.’ The President also highlighted the government’s strategy to strengthen the SEN, which includes expanding thermal and distributed generation and advancing the construction of photovoltaic solar parks. Notably, these solar facilities are already generating over 600 MW during daylight hours, with nearly all planned parks either operational or under construction.
During his visit to the Lidio Ramón Pérez plant in Felton, President Díaz-Canel was briefed on the facility’s current output of 200 MW, limited by boiler corrosion. Strategies to address these issues and recover block two, damaged by a fire in 2022, were discussed. The President underscored the plant’s strategic importance to eastern Cuba and reiterated the government’s commitment to improving working conditions for employees, including specialized medical care, wage increases, and enhanced safety measures.
Accompanied by key government officials, President Díaz-Canel’s tour reflects Cuba’s determination to overcome its energy challenges through collective effort and strategic planning.
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Prime Minister Gaston Browne Calls for Island-Led Investment and Partnership at Family Offices for Sustainable Development Summit
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda delivered a compelling address at the Family Offices for Sustainable Development (FOSD) Summit, emphasizing the need for global investors to pivot from viewing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) as vulnerable entities to recognizing them as valuable partners in sustainable development. Speaking to an international audience of family offices, philanthropy leaders, and diplomats, Browne highlighted the urgent challenges faced by SIDS, including climate threats and mounting debt burdens, while urging a shift in perception, power, and resources. Browne outlined three critical shifts necessary to transform ambition into action: recognizing SIDS as innovation hubs rather than aid recipients, moving from temporary aid to sustainable investment, and operationalizing solutions through the newly established SIDS Centre of Excellence. He positioned Antigua and Barbuda as the custodian of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), a framework designed to accelerate resilience, unlock sustainable investment, and strengthen sovereignty in data, finance, and diplomacy. Browne called on family offices and institutional investors to align their portfolios with ABAS principles, bring technology and expertise to the SIDS Centre of Excellence, and champion financial instruments that unlock private capital for resilience, blue and green growth, and inclusive development. ‘The choices made in this room will echo for generations,’ Browne concluded, inviting partners to invest in shared prosperity and planetary security.
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17-Year-Old Questioned in Connection with High Street Robbery
In a recent development in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, a 17-year-old male has been taken into police custody for questioning regarding his alleged involvement in a robbery incident. The event unfolded on the evening of Monday, September 22, 2025, when two individuals were reportedly confronted at gunpoint by two assailants on High Street. The victims were robbed of their vehicle, mobile phone, and other valuable possessions. The suspects fled the scene in the stolen vehicle, heading westward along High Street.
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was promptly notified, and an investigation was launched. On Thursday, September 25, 2025, law enforcement officers apprehended the teenager in the Clare Hall area. He is currently assisting the police with their inquiries.
The Police Administration is appealing to the public for any information that could aid in the ongoing investigation. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the CID at 462-3913 or provide anonymous tips through the Crimestoppers Hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to address and mitigate criminal activities within the community. The authorities remain committed to ensuring public safety and bringing those responsible for such acts to justice.
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Caribbean Sailing Association unveils 2026 rally calendar, including Dominica stop for Salty Dawg Rendezvous
The Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) has unveiled its highly anticipated rally calendar for 2026, promising an exhilarating year of sailing adventures across the Caribbean. The new schedule features a diverse array of regattas, rallies, and social gatherings, designed to celebrate the region’s vibrant sailing culture and bring together enthusiasts from around the globe. A standout addition to the calendar is the Salty Dawg Rendezvous in Dominica, scheduled for February 2026, which is expected to attract a significant number of participants. The CSA’s newsletter highlighted the evolution of the rally concept, noting the integration of racing events with rallies, exemplified by the Caribbean Multihull Challenge. This event has gained popularity in recent years for its unique format that combines competitive racing with the camaraderie of cruising. Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) is also set to undergo a format transformation in 2026, with organizers reintroducing destination sailing around Antigua. This will include both racing classes and a rally option tailored for cruising enthusiasts. The 2026 calendar also introduces feeder races such as the Rum to Spice from Barbados to Grenada and La Vuelta Culebra in Puerto Rico. These events are designed to serve as perfect preludes or follow-ups to larger regattas, enhancing regional connectivity and fostering a sense of community among sailors. CSA President Bastien Pouthier expressed his enthusiasm for the evolving calendar, stating, “From Barbados to Puerto Rico and many islands in between, we are delighted that our members are developing events that are more inclusive and bring sailors together for the simple joy of sailing.” The calendar, organized by prominent entities like the World Cruising Club and the Salty Dawg Association, features a blend of regattas, rallies, and social gatherings. Saskia Revelman, Manager of St. Maarten Yacht Club, emphasized the significance of the rally class at the Caribbean Multihull Challenge, noting its popularity as the only dedicated multihull regatta in the region. For December 2025, a rally component will be added to the Course D’Alliance, taking sailors from St. Maarten to Anguilla and St. Barths. Sailing enthusiasts are encouraged to visit www.caribbean-sailing.com/rallies for more details and to view the full calendar. The 2026 schedule promises an exciting year of sailing, fostering community, competition, and exploration across the Caribbean’s stunning islands.
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BAMP calls for security review of public health facilities
The Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners (BAMP) has issued a strong call for immediate action to address the escalating issue of violence and misconduct in public healthcare facilities. This appeal follows a series of recent assaults on nurses, which the association has condemned as “deplorable.” In a statement released on Thursday, BAMP emphasized that such incidents must be met with strict legal consequences to deter future occurrences. The association underscored that while healthcare professionals are bound by high standards of professionalism, the public must equally demonstrate respect and civility when seeking medical care. “Just as healthcare workers are held to rigorous professional standards, the public is expected—and indeed required—to exhibit appropriate behavior,” the statement asserted. BAMP highlighted that workplace safety is a fundamental right for all healthcare workers and expressed concern over the growing prevalence of violence and inappropriate conduct in medical settings. The organization urged the Ministry of Health and Wellness to bolster security measures in clinics and hospitals and to launch a nationwide campaign to educate the public on acceptable behavior and the severe repercussions of violence against medical staff. Additionally, BAMP voiced its unwavering support for the Barbados Nurses Association, pledging solidarity in efforts to enhance safety and working conditions for frontline healthcare workers.
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Waterspout spotted off Saint Lucia’s northwestern coast
On September 25, at approximately 1:50 p.m., a dramatic waterspout was observed over the sea near the northwestern coast of Saint Lucia. The funnel-shaped cloud, visible from multiple locations including the Castries city center, sparked awe and curiosity among onlookers. Bystanders quickly captured photos and videos, which rapidly circulated on social media, with some expressing amazement and concern. One individual exclaimed, “Oh my God, oh no! This is amazing,” while another remarked, “At first I thought it was a tornado, especially with the gloomy weather. But it looked pretty cool.”
According to the Saint Lucia Meteorological Services, the waterspout remained offshore and eventually dissipated without making landfall. Acting Director Vigil Saltibus confirmed that the phenomenon posed no threat to coastal communities or infrastructure. However, she emphasized that waterspouts can be hazardous to small vessels and become dangerous if they move ashore. Saltibus reassured the public that current conditions do not indicate an immediate risk of recurrence but advised fishing vessels and recreational boaters to remain vigilant. The meteorological services continue to monitor the atmosphere closely and will provide updates if conditions change, ensuring residents remain informed and safe.
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The UWI FIC Wins Award for Technology Deployment
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus has been honored with the Ellucian Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Visionary Leadership and Outstanding Award, marking a historic achievement as the first English-speaking Caribbean institution to receive this recognition. The award was presented during the Ellucian LAC User Conference in Cancun, Mexico, from September 9 to 11, 2025, celebrating the campus’s successful deployment of Ellucian’s Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform.
In just six months, UWI Five Islands completed the implementation of baseline components, joining an elite group of institutions across Latin America and the Caribbean that have embraced Ellucian SaaS. This milestone underscores the campus’s dedication to technological innovation and excellence in higher education. Professor C. Justin Robinson, Campus Principal, emphasized that this achievement goes beyond technology, reflecting the institution’s commitment to enhancing educational delivery and creating new opportunities for students, staff, and the broader Caribbean community.
The implementation was spearheaded by Professor Robinson and Campus Registrar Dr. Camille Samuel, supported by a cross-departmental team. The campus is set to launch Banner Apply in September 2025, with additional components rolling out throughout the 2025/2026 academic year. Raul Vega, Director of Global Success Services at Ellucian, highlighted the project as a model for institutional transformation across the region.
Established in 2019, UWI Five Islands is the fifth campus of The University of the West Indies, located in Antigua and Barbuda. With over 1,300 students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the campus offers over 40 degree programs across four schools: Humanities and Education, Business and Management, Health and Behavioural Sciences, and Science, Computing, and Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, the campus is home to the Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), showcasing its commitment to marine science research and sustainable economic development.
UWI Five Islands continues to uphold the academic excellence of The University of the West Indies, which is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities by Times Higher Education. The institution’s Lifelong Learning Unit further extends its impact by offering professional development courses tailored to the needs of working professionals and the community.
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Nurse association calls for meeting with Ministry of Health over safety concerns
The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has issued an urgent call for a meeting with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to tackle what it describes as a deepening crisis in the safety and protection of frontline nurses. This appeal follows an emergency meeting held on Wednesday at the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, prompted by recent violent incidents at the Randal Phillips and Frederick Miller Polyclinics. These events have left nurses traumatized and forced one facility to temporarily close. In a post-meeting statement, BNA President Dr. Fay Parris highlighted the fear and frustration among nurses, attributing these emotions to inadequate security measures and frequent exposure to abuse. Dr. Parris emphasized the critical need for immediate reforms to safeguard healthcare workers. The BNA is advocating for standardized safety protocols across all healthcare facilities, including the installation of CCTV cameras, entry scanners, panic buttons linked to emergency response systems, and the deployment of trained security personnel. Additionally, the association has raised concerns about the safety of nurses during community visits and the persistent shortage of Health Sisters, who play a vital role in public health outreach and assessment. Dr. Parris noted that despite repeated warnings over the past two years, upgrades to security systems have been inconsistent and often reactive. ‘The nursing community is united, focused, and prepared to ensure that these issues receive the attention they warrant,’ she asserted. The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) also attended the meeting, pledging full support for the BNA’s advocacy efforts.
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Technology, housing and training at the centre of construction future
Barbados is setting a bold agenda to integrate technology, affordable housing, and skills development into its construction sector, as emphasized by government officials and industry leaders at the 4th Annual Construction and Design Conference hosted by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council. Held at Sandals Royal, the event highlighted the critical role of innovation in addressing pressing social and economic challenges. Chris Gibbs, the newly appointed Minister of Housing, stressed the profound connection between housing and social stability, noting that inadequate housing fuels crime and frustration. ‘Housing is pivotal to our nation’s well-being,’ Gibbs asserted. ‘Affordable, sustainable, and dignified housing solutions are essential to curbing crime and fostering social harmony.’ Drawing from his experience as MP for St Michael West, Gibbs highlighted the societal impacts of poor urban design, including urban sprawl and rising crime rates. He advocated for modern, attractive housing solutions that leverage emerging technologies. Sandra Husbands, Minister of Training and Tertiary Education, underscored the need for workforce training to keep pace with technological advancements. ‘Our world is evolving rapidly, and construction is no exception,’ she said. ‘Embracing new technologies and ensuring our workforce is equipped with the necessary skills are vital to maintaining Barbados’s relevance and prosperity.’ Mark Maloney, Executive Chairman of The Maloney Group, championed the adoption of modern building systems and artificial intelligence (AI) in construction. ‘System build is the new standard,’ Maloney declared. ‘By manufacturing in controlled environments, we can ensure quality, speed, and consistency. AI can simulate projects, predict risks, and optimize resource use, transforming the industry.’ However, Maloney emphasized that human expertise remains central to progress, calling for investments in training academies and higher industry standards. The three-day conference, themed ‘Integrating Technology into Quality Construction,’ brought together architects, engineers, contractors, and policymakers to explore how innovation can reshape Barbados’s construction landscape and set a benchmark for the Caribbean region.