A former teacher in Antigua is preparing to stand trial following serious allegations of sexually assaulting a student. The case, which has drawn significant attention, stems from a complaint filed by a female student during the 2023–2024 academic year. Police investigations led to the teacher’s arrest earlier this year, and he was subsequently charged with rape and other offences under the Sexual Offences Act. The accused has since resigned from his position at the educational institution where the alleged incident occurred. School authorities have emphasized their full cooperation with law enforcement and reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring student safety. The case is set to proceed to the High Court after an initial committal hearing in the St. John’s Magistrates’ Court. While the accused has been granted bail and is scheduled to return to court later this year, officials have reminded the public that the presumption of innocence applies until proven guilty. Individuals with pertinent information are encouraged to contact the police’s Family and Sexual Offences Unit to aid the investigation.
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Benches champion breastfeeding in public spaces
Barbados has taken a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers with the launch of a pioneering initiative last weekend. The Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Foundation (BCNF), in collaboration with Antilles Outdoor, introduced the country’s first series of public markers designed to promote breastfeeding awareness. Four vividly branded benches, each bearing the empowering message “See It. Support It,” have been installed at key locations including Belleville, Sunset Crest, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and Randall Phillips Polyclinic. These benches aim to normalize and celebrate public breastfeeding while emphasizing the importance of providing mothers with comfort, respect, and encouragement. Dr. Alison Bernard, executive director of BCNF, emphasized the initiative’s core message: “Every mother should feel confident and supported to feed her child wherever she needs to. These benches send a simple message: No judgment, no side eye; just see it and support it. When we support breastfeeding, we support families and strengthen our nation.” The project, part of the foundation’s #TakeASeatForBreastfeeding campaign, integrates community education with social media outreach and broader partnerships to create healthier environments for women and children. The public is encouraged to visit the benches, take photos, and share messages of support using hashtags like #NoSideEyeSupport and #FirstSeatForLife. Adam Gibbs, innovation director at Antilles Outdoor, highlighted the initiative’s broader significance: “Public spaces tell stories about who we are. By dedicating these benches to breastfeeding awareness, we’re helping make acceptance and inclusion a visible part of everyday life in Barbados.” The campaign aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, underscoring Barbados’ commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes through community action and education.
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Cedar Valley Man Jailed for Three Years Over $6,800 Liquor Theft Spree
A Cedar Valley resident, Wilbur Edwards, has been handed a three-year prison sentence after confessing to a series of high-value alcohol thefts across multiple supermarkets in St. John’s. The theft spree, which spanned three months and amounted to over $6,800, culminated in Edwards pleading guilty to six counts of larceny during his appearance at the Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. The court imposed six-month sentences for each charge, to be served consecutively, reflecting the severity of the crimes. Prosecutors revealed that Edwards meticulously disguised his thefts as ordinary shopping trips, utilizing an extra bag in his cart to conceal bottles of liquor while only paying for other groceries. Notably, one supermarket was targeted twice during his spree. The magistrate emphasized that consecutive sentences were warranted, as each offense involved distinct thefts from different businesses. Edwards was acquitted of additional charges related to battery and resisting arrest during his apprehension.
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Antigua and Barbuda Launch CHOGM 2026 Theme on Partnership and Prosperity
The Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda have jointly announced the official theme for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM): ‘Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.’ The announcement was made by Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Hon. Gaston Browne, and Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey, during a launch ceremony that highlighted unity, collaboration, and shared prosperity. The theme underscores the vision for CHOGM 2026, which will convene leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations to foster sustainable investment, innovation, and inclusive growth. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the alignment of the theme with Antigua and Barbuda’s national motto, ‘Each Endeavouring, All Achieving,’ reflecting the nation’s commitment to collective progress. Secretary-General Botchwey highlighted the Commonwealth’s mission to transform ambition into action, building bridges between governments, businesses, and citizens. The event also unveiled the official CHOGM 2026 logo, designed by Ms. Chaneil C. Imhoff, which features an abstract frigate bird symbolizing freedom, strength, and forward movement. The launch ceremony celebrated inclusivity and culture, featuring performances by local artists and the appointment of cricketing legend Sir Vivian Richards as CHOGM 2026 Envoy. Sir Vivian expressed pride in hosting the Commonwealth family, showcasing the nation’s spirit and culture. The event marked the beginning of a public communications campaign leading up to CHOGM 2026, which will take place from November 1–4, 2026, in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. The summit will address critical global priorities, including climate resilience, trade, innovation, equality, and sustainable development.
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Antigua denies presence of US military on the island
The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) has refuted claims of unauthorized American military operations on the island, clarifying that the presence of Canadian military personnel is tied to preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled for 2026. In an official statement, the ABDF emphasized that there has been no confirmation or approval of US soldiers conducting surveys or activities in St. John’s or elsewhere on the island. The Canadian officials are engaged in collaborative planning and preparatory exercises to bolster local readiness, coordination, and security for the high-profile international event. The ABDF reaffirmed its dedication to working with regional and international partners to ensure the safety and seamless execution of CHOGM 2026. The public was urged to rely on official ABDF communications for accurate information and to avoid spreading unverified reports. Meanwhile, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey arrived in Antigua and Barbuda for planning meetings, expressing enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts leading up to CHOGM 2026. During her visit, she is set to meet with Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Prime Minister Gaston Browne to discuss strategies for fostering shared prosperity across the Commonwealth’s 56 member states.
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Jury Selection, Testimony Underway in Delano Forbes Murder Trial
The murder trial of Delano Forbes, accused of killing postal worker Maurison Thomas in 2018, began this week with jury selection and initial testimonies. Forbes, 31, faces four separate murder charges and remained composed throughout the proceedings at the High Court, communicating with his attorney via written notes. After two potential jurors were challenged, a panel of nine women and two men was sworn in to oversee the case. The first witness, a neighbor of the deceased, recounted visiting Thomas’ home on March 7, 2018, after failing to reach him. The group noticed the television was on but found no trace of Thomas. Upon opening the kitchen door, they were met with a strong odor of blood. Inside, Thomas was discovered face down in the living room, partially concealed under clothing and pinned beneath a couch, with bloodstains visible on the floor. Testimonies also detailed Forbes’ recapture weeks after his alleged escape from police custody. Officers located him hiding in a pump house in the Folly’s area, guided by a light and the scent of marijuana. A search uncovered wallets, cash, a camouflage hoodie, floral pants, red water boots, and scissors believed to bear bloodstains. Forbes reportedly claimed ownership of all items. Notably, he was acquitted in 2020 of charges related to his alleged escape. The trial is set to continue this week.
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“Antigua and Barbuda Will Continue to Punch Above Its Weight,” Says PM Browne Ahead of COP30
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda is spearheading the nation’s delegation at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, underscoring the country’s unwavering dedication to global climate initiatives. Before departing from V. C. Bird International Airport on Tuesday, Browne emphasized the critical role of small island nations in climate diplomacy, stating, ‘Antigua and Barbuda will continue to punch above its weight in global climate diplomacy. Our participation at COP30 is about defending our right to exist and securing financing for resilience and adaptation for all small island nations.’
The two-day summit, scheduled for November 6–7, will convene world leaders and experts to address pressing issues such as climate adaptation, financing, and ecosystem protection. Browne is set to deliver the national statement on Friday and participate in two thematic sessions chaired by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva: ‘Climate and Nature: Forests and Oceans’ and ’10 Years of the Paris Agreement: NDCs and Financing.’
Accompanying Browne are Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Health and Environment Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, and senior officials from key ministries and agencies. A significant focus of COP30 will be the launch of the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, a blended-finance initiative designed to preserve tropical forests by making them more valuable intact than destroyed. Antigua and Barbuda is expected to endorse the facility’s launch declaration and advocate for equitable access for small island states.
In addition to the summit’s formal agenda, Browne will attend the Leaders’ Luncheon, engage in bilateral meetings with regional and global partners, and discuss critical topics such as climate financing, blue economy growth, and renewable energy transition. This participation reaffirms Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in global climate efforts, building on the momentum from the 2024 UN SIDS4 Conference and ahead of hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2026.
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Minister: Fund Access, Trust Loans reforms coming
In a bold move to revitalize the financial landscape for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the Barbadian government has unveiled plans for a comprehensive restructuring of Fund Access and Trust Loans by 2026. Business Minister Senator Lisa Cummins announced the initiative during her keynote address at the Innovation Growth Market (IGM) 200 Conference, held at the Hilton Barbados Resort. The reform aims to address the limitations of the current debt-financing model, which Senator Cummins described as ‘outdated’ and ill-suited for modern enterprises.
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St Lucy residents finally secure title to family lands after decades of waiting
After nearly 40 years of uncertainty, residents of River Bay, St. Lucy, including seven elderly pensioners, will finally receive legal title to the land they have called home for generations. This historic change comes as part of a new government resolution introduced in Parliament on Tuesday, aimed at transferring ownership to eligible tenants. The resolution, spearheaded by Housing Minister Christopher Gibbs, marks his first legislative initiative since assuming the housing portfolio in September. It involves the transfer of over three acres of state-owned land to the National Housing Corporation for sale and distribution under the Tenantries Freehold Purchase Act. Minister Gibbs emphasized that this resolution, enacted under Section 5 of the Crown Lands Vesting and Disposal Act, is a key component of the government’s broader mission to empower Barbadians who have lived on tenantries without legal ownership. “Land ownership is transformative,” Gibbs stated. “It provides dignity, social justice, and the opportunity to build wealth and stability for families.” The 21 River Bay lots were professionally surveyed in 2021, with ten already occupied and approved for sale. Seven elderly pensioners will receive their lots free of cost, while the remaining three occupants will purchase at the statutory price of $2.50 per square foot. The remaining 11 lots will be subdivided for future housing development. Gibbs described the resolution as a tangible step toward fulfilling the government’s social contract, emphasizing its significance beyond legal formalities. “This is about correcting historical inequities and delivering justice to those who have contributed to their communities for decades,” he said. MP for St. Lucy, Peter Phillips, expressed deep gratitude to Gibbs and former Housing Minister Dwight Sutherland for their efforts. “This resolution ensures that the people of River Bay finally have a piece of the rock,” Phillips remarked. The initiative is part of a long-standing policy of economic enfranchisement through land ownership, first introduced under the 1980 Tenantries Freehold Purchase Act. Gibbs also highlighted ongoing efforts to regularize land tenure across Barbados, including recent conveyances in Bath, St. John, and Six Men’s, St. Peter. Additionally, plans are underway to empower small business owners through land ownership, such as at the Parkinson Business Centre, where tenants will soon receive titles to secure their businesses.
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MP criticises BWA remarks on northern water
Peter Phillips, Member of Parliament for St Lucy, has called for a public apology from the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) following controversial remarks by a senior official. The official had asserted that the discoloured, brown water affecting northern residents was safe to drink, a statement Phillips described as ‘careless and insensitive.’
During a House of Assembly debate on legislation granting land ownership to River Bay residents, Phillips criticized the comments as ‘unfortunate’ and ‘disrespectful.’ He emphasized that St Lucy residents have endured unreliable and discoloured water supplies for years, making the official’s remarks particularly offensive.
Phillips urged the official to retract the statement and apologize to the people of St Lucy. ‘I ain’t going to drink brown water. None of us in here would do it,’ he declared. ‘Withdraw that statement and apologise to the people of St Lucy for that comment.’
The controversy stems from a recent press conference where Acting CEO of the BWA, Christopher Mapp, claimed the discoloured water in St Lucy and St Peter was potable. ‘All indications show that the water is safe for consumption,’ Mapp stated. ‘Would I feel comfortable drinking it? Yes.’ However, he acknowledged that others might not share his comfort level.
The BWA has faced significant public criticism over persistent complaints of brown water in northern parishes. Mapp revealed that the authority has invested nearly $20 million in mains replacement, including $7 million since April, with the project expected to conclude by early 2026. Water quality technologist Jatobi Greaves confirmed that tests showed the water met health and safety standards, attributing the discolouration to sediment that does not compromise safety.
Phillips acknowledged the BWA’s efforts to improve water supply but stressed that the official’s comments had caused unnecessary distress. ‘That same officer is working hard as head of the mains replacement team to better the situation in St Lucy,’ he said. ‘It is just a mistake, and I would ask him simply to come, apologise, and let us move forward.’
Phillips highlighted the importance of reliable access to clean water, especially as the government moves to grant land ownership to residents. ‘In order for the people to enjoy life and truly be happy, there are a number of amenities that must be in place,’ he said. ‘One of those amenities is clean, running, proper water.’
He also addressed other pressing issues in St Lucy, including road repairs, coastal damage from Hurricane Beryl, and the condition of Crab Hill roads. Phillips assured residents that he is collaborating with government ministries to resolve these challenges. ‘My voice will not be silent if there are issues that affect the people of St Lucy and the issues go unaddressed,’ he vowed.