The Cabinet is currently evaluating a proposal to host the Senior Panorama Competition at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, drawing inspiration from the triumphant execution of this year’s Junior Panorama. The initiative aims to rejuvenate the national steelband showcase by replicating the successful two-stage format that captivated audiences during the 44th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, highlighted that Cabinet members were particularly impressed by the Junior Panorama’s vibrant performances, robust youth engagement, and exceptional crowd turnout. These factors have spurred discussions about adopting a similar structure for the Senior Panorama during Carnival, with the goal of enhancing production quality, enriching audience experiences, and bolstering the event’s cultural significance. Merchant emphasized that further consultations with key stakeholders in the cultural sector will be conducted before finalizing the decision. Additionally, Cabinet extended commendations to the Ministry of Festivals and its team, led by Minister Daryll Matthew, for their outstanding contributions to the success of the Independence celebrations.
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Jenny Christopher zwaait nu de scepter bij RGD
The Regional Health Service Foundation (RGD) in Suriname has welcomed a new director, Jenny Christopher, effective November 1, 2025. Appointed by André Misiekaba, Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare, Christopher will lead the organization responsible for primary healthcare in Suriname’s coastal region. She succeeds Radjesh Radjkoemar, bringing a wealth of experience in education, administration, and policy development. Christopher began her career as a financial analyst and economics lecturer, later becoming a pivotal figure in Suriname’s education system. She served as a training coordinator, deputy director, and curriculum developer at the Institute for Teacher Education (IOL), dedicating years to enhancing teacher professionalism and educational standards. Beyond academia, Christopher has been a policy advisor at the Ministry of Education, a member of the Presidential Education Task Force, and secretary of the board at Anton de Kom University. She has also held supervisory roles, including as president-commissioner of BGVS and chair of the supervisory board of Suriname’s Psychiatric Center. Christopher expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her, stating, ‘It is an honor to lead an organization that plays such a vital role in the preventive and primary health of our community. Together with the RGD team and our partners, we aim to build accessible and high-quality care for all while ensuring the organization’s financial health.’ Her appointment aligns with the Ministry’s strategy to strengthen primary healthcare and modernize RGD’s operations. The foundation’s board and staff have warmly welcomed her, wishing her success in her new role.
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Dominican National Police join Operation Sentry in New York
New York – Colonel Donni Sonni Cepeda, the Dominican National Police Liaison in New York and Providence, represented Major General Ramón Antonio Guzmán Peralta, Director General of the Dominican National Police, at the annual Operation Sentry Conference organized by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Accompanied by First Lieutenant Edgar Olega Montes de Oca, Colonel Cepeda underscored the Dominican Republic’s commitment to international security collaboration.
The event commenced with a reception on November 5 at the Peninsula Hotel in New York, hosted by the NYPD’s Office of Intelligence and Counterterrorism. The gathering celebrated the ongoing partnership between the Dominican National Police and the NYPD, highlighting their shared efforts in combating crime and terrorism.
The main conference, held on November 6 at NYPD headquarters, convened law enforcement representatives from across the globe. The forum served as a platform for intelligence sharing and the development of joint strategies to address transnational threats. The Dominican National Police’s participation in the conference reflects its dedication to fostering international cooperation and enhancing its capabilities in tackling global security challenges.
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Ministry of Culture to host first International Congress on Cultural Innovation
Santo Domingo is set to become a focal point for discussions on the digital transformation of cultural and creative industries as the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Culture organizes the inaugural International Congress on Cultural Innovation. Scheduled for November 11 at the Catalonia Hotel in Santo Domingo, the event will convene a diverse group of participants, including artists, cultural managers, entrepreneurs, academics, technologists, and policymakers. The congress aligns with the country’s National Development Strategy 2030, Digital Agenda 2030, and National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and cultural inclusion. Key topics will include the digital cultural economy, content monetization, sustainable business models for creative industries, and the challenges of expanding cultural production from the Caribbean and Latin America. The program is structured around five themes: digital cultural economy, public policies for digital transformation, heritage management and digital memory, creative entrepreneurship and innovation, and gamer culture and interactive narratives. The Ministry aims to enhance digital skills, ensure equitable access to technology, protect cultural rights, and foster a global ecosystem that connects local creativity to international cultural networks.
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Dominican Republic elected to UN International Civil Service Commission for the first time
In a groundbreaking development, the Dominican Republic has secured a seat on the United Nations International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) for the first time since the body’s inception. This historic achievement highlights the nation’s growing influence in global diplomacy. José A. Blanco Conde, the Dominican ambassador to Canada and former Permanent Representative to the UN, will represent the country on this prestigious commission. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1974, the ICSC is an independent expert body tasked with setting global standards for efficiency, fairness, and professionalism within the international civil service. Its responsibilities include defining salary structures, cost-of-living adjustments, duty station allowances, and human resource policies across the UN system. The Dominican Republic’s election to the 15-member commission, which serves four-year terms, underscores its commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and democratic principles. This milestone reflects the nation’s enhanced credibility and leadership in multilateral forums, as well as its dedication to equitable geographic representation and transparent management within the UN framework.
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Wereldleiders waarschuwen op VN-klimaattop: tijd dringt voor klimaatactie
At the COP30 United Nations Climate Summit held in Belém, Brazil, world leaders unanimously emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change to prevent its most catastrophic impacts. The summit, hosted near the Amazon rainforest, saw sharp criticism directed at the United States for its reluctance to engage fully, particularly due to the absence of former President Donald Trump, who withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement during his tenure. Current U.S. President Jennifer Simons attended, but the lack of high-level representation raised concerns about the nation’s commitment to global climate efforts.
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Zaviska Lamsberg eerste Surinaamse vrouw gekozen tot Vicepresident JCI
In a groundbreaking achievement, Zaviska Lamsberg has been elected as Vice President of Junior Chamber International (JCI) during the JCI World Congress in Tunis, Tunisia. This historic appointment marks her as the first Surinamese woman to hold such a prestigious international leadership role within the global youth organization. At 32 years old, Lamsberg, hailing from Paramaribo, will assume her position in 2026, joining one of JCI’s highest governing bodies. Her election is celebrated as a significant milestone for gender equality and Surinamese leadership on the global stage. Currently serving as the National President of JCI Suriname, Lamsberg has distinguished herself through her strategic vision and unifying leadership. Under her guidance, JCI Suriname successfully hosted an international conference praised for its professional execution and warm Surinamese hospitality. With a background in Law and Social Development and professional experience in Human Resources at a multinational gold mining company, Lamsberg combines academic depth with practical leadership experience. She began her JCI journey in 2017 with JCI Unify, rose to Local President in 2023, and became National President in 2025. Following her election, Lamsberg emphasized that her victory extends beyond personal achievement. ‘This is not just a personal win but a victory for every young woman in Suriname and the Caribbean,’ she stated. ‘My journey proves that when young people are given opportunities to grow, they can achieve extraordinary things.’ She highlighted collaboration as the cornerstone of her leadership philosophy, stating, ‘Our mission to empower young people to create positive change can only succeed through collaboration. Governments, businesses, and communities must provide young people with the space, trust, and resources to develop into the change-makers our world needs.’ JCI is a global organization of active young citizens aged 18 to 40, operating in over 100 countries. It offers leadership and development opportunities for young individuals to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
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Hundreds of CO Williams workers walk off the job after pay talks collapse
More than 300 construction workers employed by C.O. Williams in Barbados have initiated a strike following the collapse of pay negotiations with management. The protest, organized by the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU), began early Thursday morning at the company’s Lears, St Michael base. The workers rejected the company’s latest wage proposal, prompting union intervention and escalating the matter to the government’s chief labour officer.
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Column: Een staatsman van eenvoud en overtuiging
The passing of former President Ronald Venetiaan has evoked profound feelings of respect and gratitude among many. Venetiaan, a rare breed of leader, combined authority with humility, leaving an indelible mark on Suriname’s political and moral landscape. His leadership was characterized by tactical acumen, principled decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to the nation’s interests over personal or partisan gain. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Venetiaan avoided the limelight, yet his influence was deeply felt in shaping the country’s governance and ethical compass. His unwavering integrity and modest demeanor earned him admiration even from political adversaries, a testament to his enduring moral authority. In a political climate often marred by corruption and self-interest, Venetiaan remained untarnished, a rarity that solidified his reputation as a true statesman. His collaborative approach with Vice President Jules Ajodhia symbolized trust and unity, a stark contrast to the divisiveness seen in recent years. Venetiaan’s decision to forego a state funeral aligns with his humble nature, yet such a ceremony would fittingly honor his legacy and the values he championed: dignity, principles, and decency in public service. For current and future leaders, Venetiaan’s life serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership lies not in loud proclamations but in listening, integrity, and simplicity. His enduring legacy is not etched in monuments but in the example he set—a beacon of moral leadership in an often tumultuous world.
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Pringle Calls for Vehicle Scandal Probe to Extend to Quarries and Cement Factory
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has intensified calls for a comprehensive forensic investigation into the Ministry of Works, urging that the scope of the ongoing vehicle procurement scandal probe be extended to include the quarries and cement factory under the ministry’s purview. Speaking during the second day of protests outside the ministry, Pringle, leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP), emphasized that these issues are interconnected, pointing to a broader pattern of alleged mismanagement and lack of transparency within the government.
Pringle highlighted the necessity of an independent investigation into the so-called ‘vehicle-gate’ scandal, as well as the quarries and cement factory, citing reports of $15 million allegedly misappropriated from the ministry. He also raised concerns about the ministry’s headquarters, which he claimed is ‘suffering tremendously from mold infestation.’
The UPP leader vowed to maintain pressure on the government until a full investigation is launched, stating, ‘We cannot continue to have this government hide or stifle accountability and transparency in Antigua and Barbuda. We will be here until we get such an investigation into the matters I’ve mentioned.’ The protest outside the Ministry of Works marked the second consecutive day of demonstrations by the UPP, which is advocating for independent oversight into government operations to ensure accountability and transparency.