On Friday, September 12, Acting Prime Minister of Dominica, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, hosted a significant meeting with His Excellency Simon Mustard, the British High Commissioner to the Commonwealth of Dominica. The discussions took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in Roseau, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. Earlier in the day, Mustard formally presented his Letter of Credence to Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, the President of Dominica, solidifying his official role in the region. The bilateral talks centered on reinforcing mutual commitments to enhance cooperation and explore shared interests across multiple sectors, including trade, climate resilience, and regional security. Simon Mustard, who assumed his position as British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in May 2025, brings over two decades of experience in policy, crisis management, and consular affairs. His previous roles include serving as Special Envoy to Africa’s Great Lakes region and British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone. Currently based in Barbados, Mustard’s appointment underscores the UK’s strategic focus on strengthening ties with Caribbean nations. This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to foster a robust partnership between Dominica and the United Kingdom, with both sides expressing optimism about future collaborations.
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WEATHER (6:00 AM, Sept 18): Scattered showers, thunderstorm activity expected today; residents advised to continue monitoring for TS Gabrielle updates
Unsettled weather patterns, driven by an upper-level trough, are expected to bring intermittent cloud cover, scattered showers, and isolated thunderstorms across the island today. Light winds and elevated daytime temperatures may intensify cloud formation, leading to localized afternoon downpours, particularly in western and northern regions. Residents in vulnerable areas, as well as motorists and pedestrians navigating flood-prone zones, landslide risks, and areas susceptible to falling rocks, are urged to remain vigilant. Additionally, a slight increase in Saharan dust is anticipated overnight, potentially persisting through Friday. Individuals with respiratory conditions are advised to take necessary precautions. Marine conditions are forecasted to remain slight to moderate, with wave heights reaching up to 3 feet along the west coast and 5 feet along the east coast within the next 24 hours. However, wave heights along the East Coast are expected to rise to nearly 7 feet overnight into Friday, accompanied by longer wave periods likely to generate ground swells. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Gabrielle, located approximately 845 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands at 5 a.m., is moving west-northwest at 15 mph. With maximum sustained winds near 50 mph and higher gusts, the storm is projected to pass north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on further developments.
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Gender inequality persists despite decades of progress
Barbadian women continue to shoulder the majority of caregiving, work, and social responsibilities, despite decades of advancements in gender equality, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey stated on Tuesday. Speaking at the 30th anniversary commemoration of the Beijing Declaration at United Nations House in Christ Church, Humphrey highlighted the enduring gender disparities in Barbados. Between July 1 and September 15, the Welfare Department issued 2,478 back-to-school cheques totaling $1.62 million to assist children, with over 95% of applications submitted by women. These figures underscore not only financial needs but also the persistent imbalance in responsibilities between men and women. “Women bear a disproportionate share of daily burdens, especially during crises,” Humphrey emphasized. He stressed the necessity of data-driven solutions to address these inequities, referencing the ongoing country assessment of living conditions, which will inform a new poverty line by early 2026, and the planned establishment of the Social Empowerment Agency to enhance social service delivery. Humphrey also linked gender inequality to climate challenges, noting that women are disproportionately affected by climate disasters. “Eighty percent of those displaced by climate disasters are women and girls,” he said, warning that the climate crisis exacerbates existing inequities. Isiuwa Iyahen, head of UN Women’s Multi-Country Office for the Caribbean, echoed the call for action, recalling Caribbean women’s historical struggles against systemic barriers. Despite significant progress, disparities persist. Barbadian women earn 86-87% of men’s wages, and up to half of women with partners experience intimate-partner violence. Women also perform two to three times more unpaid care work than men, limiting their economic opportunities. “Laws alone are insufficient—financing, implementation, and cultural change are urgently needed,” Iyahen concluded.
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DA teams part of empowering seminar for women in sports
In a significant stride toward gender equality in sports, the Dominica Football Association’s senior women’s team recently participated in a transformative seminar during the WIFA Women’s Tournament. Held under the joint sponsorship of the United Nations and the Build Back Equal Project, the event took place in St Vincent and the Grenadines from September 14 to 20, 2025. The seminar, themed “Our Goal… Her Equal Rights,” aimed to empower women athletes by addressing critical issues related to mental and physical health, with a particular focus on gender-specific topics such as breast and reproductive health. Distinguished panelists, including Yoland London, Chair of the SVGFF Executive Women’s Committee, and Dr. Jozelle Miller, a Clinical Psychologist, shared their expertise with the participants. The event also featured insights from Dr. Peters, an Acute and Emergency Medicine Specialist, Dr. Nekeisha Lewis, an OBGYN, and Rhema Lewis, a United Nations representative. This initiative underscores the growing global commitment to fostering equality and well-being in women’s sports.
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Farmers hoping for fresh investment in sugar industry after deal collapse
The Barbados Sugar Industries Limited (BSIL) is actively seeking a new investor following the breakdown of the government’s divestment agreement with the Barbados Sustainable Energy Co-operative Society Limited (Co-op Energy). BSIL Chairman Mark Sealy expressed concerns over the financial challenges faced by farmers, who have already invested heavily in equipment, land, and sugarcane cultivation. Sealy emphasized that the farmers lack the substantial capital required to upgrade the sole remaining sugar factory and manage government-run agricultural land. He dismissed rumors of farmers having significant financial resources, stating that their cash flow is severely depleted. The government recently terminated a March 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Co-op Energy, which aimed to transfer the Barbados Agricultural Management Company’s (BAMC) sugar portfolio into two co-operative-run entities. Despite the setback, Sealy highlighted the critical role of the sugar industry in Barbados’ economy, tourism, and food security, particularly in producing molasses for high-end rums and maintaining the island’s aesthetics. He assured that the industry has continued to operate smoothly without Co-op Energy’s involvement and stressed that Barbados cannot afford to abandon the sugar industry, as it would lead to significant environmental and economic consequences.
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New scholarships to boost youth careers in construction, auto repair
Barbadian youth aspiring to build careers in construction and automotive repair have received a significant boost with the introduction of over $4,000 in new scholarships. This initiative stems from two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and local industry leaders Nirvana Construction Inc. and Automotive Art. The agreements, formalized on Tuesday at SJPI’s Wildey campus, aim to provide targeted financial support to students enrolled in masonry and motor vehicle engineering programmes. Nirvana Construction has pledged a $500 scholarship for students from Parkinson Memorial Secondary School entering the Certificate in Masonry programme. Eligible applicants must be Barbadian citizens aged 16 to 18 and submit a recommendation from a school official or coach. Steven Hinds, Managing Director of Nirvana Construction and an SJPI alumnus, emphasized the company’s dedication to youth development and the skilled trades. “We are big on young people. Being in the construction industry, we decided that we need to advance our skilled artisans,” he stated. Meanwhile, Automotive Art will award ten $400 scholarships to continuing students in the Motor Vehicle Engineering Technology and Vehicle Body Repair programmes. Jamon White, General Manager of Automotive Art, described the initiative as a small yet impactful investment in the nation’s future workforce. SJPI Principal Ian Drakes expressed enthusiasm for the partnerships, highlighting their role in making technical and vocational education more accessible. “These are exciting times, and they continue with corporate Barbados entrusting us to keep our technical vocational education going in a very positive and dynamic way,” Drakes remarked. These scholarships align with broader national efforts to attract and qualify more young Barbadians in skilled trades, particularly in construction and auto care. For further details, interested individuals can visit www.sjpi.edu.bb or contact SJPI Guidance Officer Shawna Carter at 246-836-7687. Applications close on September 30.
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Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne have jointly nominated Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic as the island’s second president. Political analyst Peter Wickham interprets this consensus as a strong endorsement of Bostic’s credibility and impartiality, transcending political divides. Wickham emphasized that Thorne’s agreement to the nomination reflects confidence in Bostic’s ability to serve without conflict, avoiding a parliamentary vote that would have been a mere formality given the government’s majority. Bostic, a former Member of Parliament and Minister of Health and Wellness, gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wickham dismissed concerns about Bostic’s political background, noting that he has fulfilled the required cooling-off period from politics and is widely respected. However, retired lecturer Dr. George Belle downplayed the significance of the nomination, stating that it adheres to constitutional norms and reflects the reality of selecting politically affiliated individuals for such roles. Belle emphasized that the process, supported by both the prime minister and opposition leader, follows established protocols and will proceed to parliamentary affirmation. While some view the nomination as a positive step toward unity, others see it as a routine constitutional procedure.
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Bostic speaks on nomination
Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic, the nominated President of Barbados, is set to bring his pandemic-era mantra of “no retreat, no surrender” into a ceremonial role devoid of executive power. While Bostic refrained from elaborating on his nomination until parliamentary ratification, he emphasized that the mantra, which became synonymous with his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, remains a core part of his identity. “That is within me, that comes from within me, that is something that will remain with me,” Bostic told Barbados TODAY on Wednesday. He expressed elation at the nomination, stating, “I am indeed elated at the nomination to become the second president of Barbados,” but stressed the importance of respecting the parliamentary process. Bostic, who received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2022, highlighted his eagerness to serve the nation once more, pending ratification. The retired military officer, who became the public face of Barbados’ pandemic response, is set to succeed Dame Sandra Mason as Head of State on Independence Day. His leadership during the crisis, marked by a military-style focus, earned him national honours and widespread respect. Bostic, a former Cabinet Minister, is expected to receive full approval during a joint parliamentary session on October 7. His nomination was announced in Parliament by Deputy Speaker Neil Rowe, following correspondence from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne. Bostic’s career spans military service, including as director of operations at the Regional Security System, and political representation of The City of Bridgetown.
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Dominica marks World Patient Safety Day with renewed commitment to newborn and child Health
On World Patient Safety Day 2025, Dominica’s Minister of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, Hon. Kassani Laville, delivered a compelling address urging citizens to prioritize patient safety as both a personal and national responsibility. Aligning with the global theme, “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child,” and the slogan “Patient Safety from the Start,” Minister Laville emphasized that safeguarding the health of Dominica’s youngest citizens begins even before birth. “Patient safety does not begin halfway through life,” Laville asserted. “It begins at birth—and I may argue, even before birth. Every clean hand, every sterile surface, and every mindful action honors that promise.”
Since its inception at the 72nd World Health Assembly in 2019, World Patient Safety Day has underscored the critical need to prevent harm in healthcare settings. Laville revealed that between 2020 and 2024, Dominica recorded over 3,100 live births, with more than 1,100 neonates requiring specialized hospital care. Notably, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) achieved remarkable milestones, including the survival of three premature infants born at just 25 weeks gestation.
Sister Juliana Darroux, Ward Sister of the Stronach Ward, reinforced the Minister’s message, highlighting the maternity unit’s role in managing high-risk pregnancies and ensuring safe deliveries. “Efficient antenatal care is a prerequisite for newborn safety,” she stated, “allowing early identification and intervention for risk factors that affect fetal well-being.”
The Dominica Hospitals Authority has implemented a robust safety framework to protect newborns and maintain high standards of care. Key measures include secure ID bands for proper newborn identification, rigorous infection prevention protocols, breastfeeding support, timely immunization, and safe clinical practices such as immediate skin-to-skin contact and delayed cord clamping. Family involvement is also encouraged through rooming-in, education on safe sleeping practices, and emotional support for caregivers.
Minister Laville commended the Infection Prevention and Control Department, led by Nurse Blez, and the Winston Ward pediatric team for their dedication to child health. “Every child deserves a safe beginning,” Laville affirmed. “Every family deserves confidence in the care they receive. And every healthcare worker deserves the tools and support to deliver quality outcomes.”
The Ministry and the Dominica Hospitals Authority pledged to continue enhancing safety measures across all levels of care. In his closing remarks, Laville called on communities to complement institutional efforts, stating, “Let us ensure our children are equipped with the skills, virtues, and compassion to become productive citizens of Dominica.”
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IGNITE 2025: The Must-Attend Summit for Caribbean Founders and Investors
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago – September 18, 2025 – Caribbean Dragons, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering innovation and investment across the Caribbean and Latin America, is gearing up to host its flagship event, IGNITE 2025. Scheduled from October 13 to October 15, 2025, at the Central Bank Auditorium in Port-of-Spain, this summit is poised to be a pivotal gathering for startups, investors, and industry leaders.
IGNITE 2025 is not just another conference; it’s a platform where transformative deals are made. Andrew Seepersad, Head of Strategy & Operations at Caribbean Dragons, emphasizes the event’s significance: ‘The biggest challenge for early-stage founders is access to key resources such as capital, mentorship, and the right networks. IGNITE 2025 brings them all together in one place.’
Last year’s summit marked a turning point for Caribbean startups, thanks to a strategic partnership with the British High Commission, which opened doors for founders aiming to scale internationally. The Investors’ Workshop attracted major financiers, many of whom are now exploring regional ventures as part of their alternative portfolios.
This year’s lineup includes high-profile speakers such as Marcus Dantus, a Shark at Shark Tank Mexico and founder of Startup Mexico. The summit will delve into critical topics like building regional capacity, exploring high-value opportunity areas such as FinTech and HealthTech, and sharing success stories from local and international founders.
Seepersad highlights the broader mission: ‘Caribbean startups face capital constraints and scalability hurdles. IGNITE is about building investor confidence and ensuring founders can effectively navigate international markets.’ Looking ahead, Caribbean Dragons plans to expand IGNITE across the region, with Jamaica or Guyana as potential hosts as early as 2026.
With over 100 startups expected to attend, corporate sponsors from finance, tech, and hospitality sectors, and a growing global audience, IGNITE 2025 is set to be the birthplace of the next big Caribbean entrepreneurship success story. For tickets and more details, visit www.caribbeandragons.org/ignite.