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  • St. Joseph’s Academy Interact Club Continues Season of Giving with Donation to Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross

    St. Joseph’s Academy Interact Club Continues Season of Giving with Donation to Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross

    The Interact Club of St. Joseph’s Academy has demonstrated exceptional community leadership through its comprehensive “Season of Giving” campaign, executing multiple philanthropic projects that address diverse local needs. Their humanitarian efforts culminated on February 11th with a significant clothing donation to the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross, providing essential support for the organization’s thrift store operations that serve vulnerable populations throughout the island. The student-led initiative involved meticulous organization as Interactors mobilized their peers and school community to contribute pre-owned garments.

    Earlier this academic term, the club initiated its charitable programming by honoring medical professionals at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre with doughnut donations, recognizing their tireless service within the national healthcare framework. Expanding this healthcare support, the organization collaborated with Christ the King School’s Interact Club to enhance pediatric care facilities. Their joint contribution included practical items such as bedding sets, window curtains, timekeeping devices, and electric kettles specifically designated for the Pediatric Ward, directly improving the comfort experience for young patients and their families during treatment.

    These coordinated endeavors reflect the Interact Club’s deep commitment to operationalizing the principle of service above self. Through strategic partnerships and targeted outreach, the student members have exhibited remarkable organizational capabilities while developing genuine compassion for community welfare. Their multifaceted approach to social support demonstrates how youth-led initiatives can create tangible positive impact across various sectors of society, from healthcare support to essential goods distribution for economically disadvantaged communities.

  • Hon. Dennis Cornwall to attend 112th ECCB Monetary Council Meeting

    Hon. Dennis Cornwall to attend 112th ECCB Monetary Council Meeting

    Grenada’s Finance Minister, Honourable Dennis Cornwall, is set to participate in the 112th Monetary Council gathering of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) on February 13, 2026. The high-level meeting will be hosted at the ECCB headquarters in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, bringing together finance ministers from across the currency union.

    The council session represents a fundamental component of the ECCB’s governance framework, tasked with conducting comprehensive assessments of monetary and credit conditions throughout the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). Minister Cornwall will be accompanied by Mike Sylvester, Permanent Secretary within Grenada’s Ministry of Finance, forming the island’s official delegation.

    These biannual meetings serve as critical policy-making platforms where council members examine the ECCB Governor’s detailed report on regional economic performance. The agenda typically encompasses deliberations on financial stability mechanisms, credit market evolution, and strategic policy initiatives designed to foster sustainable economic development across member nations.

    The Grenadian government has reaffirmed its dedication to active engagement in regional financial governance structures, emphasizing its commitment to policies that enhance economic resilience and promote developmental objectives within the Eastern Caribbean framework.

    The ECCB Monetary Council operates as the supreme decision-making body for the currency union, maintaining oversight of monetary policy and financial sector stability across its eight member territories.

  • Machel’s back for big Color Me Red encore

    Machel’s back for big Color Me Red encore

    Saint Lucian Carnival preparations have reached a fever pitch with the announcement that soca megastar Machel Montano will serve as the headline performer for the prestigious Color Me Red (CMR) event. The landmark 20th anniversary celebration will unfold on Carnival Friday, July 17th, at the Beausejour Grounds in Gros Islet, solidifying its status as the season’s premier live concert and fete.

    Event organizers from Red Carnival unveiled their ambitious plans during a media launch at M Motors, signaling a triumphant return to grand-scale production. Thaddeus Antoine, co-founder and director, emphasized the significance of securing Montano, who previously dominated the CMR stage for five consecutive years from 2011 to 2015. This booking represents a strategic move to recapture the event’s legendary atmosphere.

    With a history of attracting top-tier regional soca talent while simultaneously providing a crucial platform for local artists, CMR has consistently set the standard for carnival experiences. This year’s theme, ‘Encore,’ draws inspiration directly from Montano’s 2026 hit single, promising a nostalgic yet fresh musical journey.

    Addressing previous logistical shortcomings, organizers have committed to significant enhancements, particularly in VIP patron services. Learning from competitor events, the plan includes deploying multiple food stations and caterers to improve guest satisfaction. Notably, the upgraded experience will extend beyond VIP areas, with general admission attendees receiving branded glasses to foster inclusive participation in the curated ambiance.

    Bank of Saint Lucia has been confirmed as the platinum sponsor for this milestone event, with additional performer announcements expected in the coming weeks.

  • CAF’s 2026 International Economic Forum centers Caribbean concerns and solutions

    CAF’s 2026 International Economic Forum centers Caribbean concerns and solutions

    PANAMA CITY – Caribbean development priorities dominated the agenda at CAF’s International Economic Forum 2026, where regional leaders convened to address critical challenges facing small island economies. The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean hosted its second annual forum, creating a strategic platform for high-level dialogue on sustainable growth frameworks.

    The gathering featured significant participation from Caribbean nations, with over fifty delegates engaging in comprehensive discussions on climate resilience, infrastructure development, and innovative financing mechanisms. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered a pivotal keynote address, emphasizing the necessity for Latin America and the Caribbean to actively shape their positions within the global economic architecture. Drawing from Jamaica’s recent experience with Hurricane Melissa, Holness underscored the critical importance of robust institutional frameworks and coordinated regional strategies to navigate international uncertainties.

    A landmark bilateral meeting occurred between Prime Minister Holness, senior Jamaican cabinet members, and CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados. This unprecedented dialogue focused on post-hurricane reconstruction coordination and the vital role of development finance in building sustainable economic recovery. The discussions marked the first such high-level engagement between Jamaican leadership and CAF administration.

    The forum hosted a private Caribbean Ministerial Dialogue, bringing together finance and economic development ministers from across the region. This closed-door session facilitated alignment between CAF’s adaptable financing solutions and national development priorities, with particular emphasis on innovative funding mechanisms for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

    Parallel technical sessions addressed pressing regional issues including economic outlook analyses, blue economy potential, Africa-Caribbean relations, and tourism investment strategies. These discussions were complemented by confidential technical exchanges aimed at developing practical, actionable solutions for Caribbean development challenges.

    A dedicated investment forum focused specifically on Jamaica’s recovery efforts, aiming to mobilize private sector capital for reconstruction projects. The session explored Public-Private Partnership models as catalysts for investment in priority sectors, with CAF committing USD 1 billion alongside international partners to support Jamaica’s long-term recovery.

    Dr. Stacy Richards-Kennedy, CAF’s Regional Manager for the Caribbean, emphasized the organization’s commitment to amplifying Caribbean voices in global discussions. ‘The Caribbean faces unique challenges that must not be overshadowed by broader geopolitical concerns,’ she stated. ‘This forum provides essential space for meaningful dialogue addressing the multidimensional challenges confronting vulnerable small states.’

    The 2026 edition attracted over 6,500 participants from 70 countries, including government officials, private sector leaders, academics, and development experts, making it one of the most significant gatherings for Latin American and Caribbean economic development discourse.

  • Liberty Business launches in Grenada

    Liberty Business launches in Grenada

    GRENADA – Liberty Business, the rebranded entity formerly known as Cable & Wireless Business, officially unveiled its new regional identity on February 5th at the Grenada Trade Centre. The launch event marked a significant expansion of digital solutions tailored for Caribbean businesses, positioning the company as a catalyst for technological advancement across the region.

    The summit gathered business executives, government officials, and technology partners to demonstrate Liberty’s next-generation connectivity solutions and world-class support infrastructure. Under its renewed mission of ‘Connecting Communities and Changing Lives,’ the company reaffirmed its commitment to driving progress through technological innovation and operational excellence.

    Lincoln Baptiste, Country Manager for Flow Grenada, emphasized the strategic importance of this transformation: “Liberty Business represents a bold step forward in how we serve and support enterprises. We’re investing substantially in technologies, partnerships, and human capital to build a robust digital ecosystem that empowers innovation.”

    Executive presentations by Daniel Neiva, VP Chief Commercial Officer of B2B, detailed Liberty’s substantial investments in infrastructure modernization and customer experience enhancement across Caribbean markets. The event featured immersive demonstrations of cutting-edge solutions including:

    – Next-Generation Connectivity and Digital Health solutions enabling operational agility
    – Smart Room technologies for hybrid meeting environments
    – Advanced Mobile Solutions for remote workforce management
    – Data Resiliency Services ensuring business continuity and secure architecture
    – Comprehensive Cybersecurity protections against evolving digital threats

    The company showcased its strategic partnerships with industry leaders including Fortinet, Cisco, Microsoft, Oracle, and IBM. A panel discussion moderated by Bradley Ramcharan, Director of Multinational Accounts & Government Sales, examined digital transformation trends specific to the Caribbean business landscape.

    Elena Dyer, Director of B2B Sales South Caribbean, concluded the event by emphasizing Liberty’s readiness to guide organizations through their digital evolution: “We stand beside our customers with both technological expertise and genuine passion for their success. Our team is committed to accelerating Grenada’s transition toward a digital-first economy.”

    Local management, including B2B Manager Thomas John, highlighted the deployment of specialized account managers and support teams dedicated to serving Grenadian businesses. The Liberty Business initiative represents a comprehensive commitment to powering the Caribbean’s digital future through innovation-driven partnerships.

  • Aanplant 6.000 zuurzakbomen moet productie en verwerking versterken

    Aanplant 6.000 zuurzakbomen moet productie en verwerking versterken

    In a significant development for the agricultural sector, Zudo Tropical Fruits and its network of affiliated farmers have embarked on a major expansion initiative by jointly planting approximately 6,000 soursop trees. This strategic move aims to substantially increase local fruit production while simultaneously advancing the processing industry’s capabilities.

    The project received high-level governmental attention during a working visit by Minister Andrew Baasaron of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation (EZOTI). The minister toured the facilities of Zudo Tropical Fruits, which currently benefits from support through the innovative SURGE program.

    The company has developed an integrated business model that combines cultivation with fruit processing into pulp, creating additional value within the agricultural production chain. This expansion is being implemented in collaboration with outgrowers, ensuring direct involvement of multiple farmers throughout the production process.

    Through the SURGE program, Zudo Tropical Fruits secured a substantial grant of USD 250,000 specifically allocated for investments in production enhancement, processing infrastructure, and operational efficiency improvements. These funds have been strategically deployed to acquire agricultural machinery, state-of-the-art processing equipment, and essential support facilities.

    According to EZOTI officials, the project delivers multifaceted benefits that extend beyond corporate development. By integrating local farmers into both production and processing operations, the initiative strengthens the entire agricultural value chain. This approach contributes significantly to value addition, entrepreneurship development, and sustainable economic growth within the agricultural sector.

    During the working visit, ministry representatives expressed strong appreciation for the collaborative efforts within the sector and extended their best wishes for the company’s continued expansion success.

  • PM congratulates Barbados PM‑elect Mia Amor Mottley

    PM congratulates Barbados PM‑elect Mia Amor Mottley

    In a significant diplomatic gesture, Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has extended his warmest congratulations to Mia Amor Mottley following her unprecedented third consecutive electoral triumph in Barbados. This landmark victory, Mitchell emphasized, stands as a powerful testament to Mottley’s exceptional leadership and the profound confidence Barbados’ citizenry continues to vest in her governance.

    Prime Minister Mitchell articulated that this decisive electoral mandate underscores the widespread endorsement of Prime Minister-elect Mottley’s strategic blueprint, which prioritizes building economic resilience, accelerating social progress, and fostering inclusive national development for Barbados.

    Beyond domestic acclaim, Mitchell lauded Mottley’s formidable influence and advocacy on broader international platforms. He specifically highlighted her pivotal role in championing critical global issues, including urgent climate action, the pursuit of economic justice, and the strengthening of multilateral cooperation. Her re-election, Mitchell noted, is poised to fortify the collective voice of the Caribbean region on the world stage. This renewed mandate is widely anticipated to catalyze further advancements within Barbados and to significantly deepen collaborative efforts aimed at achieving shared prosperity and sustainable development across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

    Reaffirming Grenada’s commitment to bilateral and regional partnership, Prime Minister Mitchell pledged his nation’s continued close collaboration with Mottley’s incoming administration. The mutual objectives will center on driving sustainable development initiatives, enhancing climate resilience strategies, and accelerating the ongoing agenda for deeper regional integration, thereby strengthening the bonds between Grenada and Barbados.

  • WATCH: Condo Units To Be Available For Purchase by locals in refurbished Heritage Hotel

    WATCH: Condo Units To Be Available For Purchase by locals in refurbished Heritage Hotel

    A landmark heritage hotel is set to undergo a transformative redevelopment that will create exclusive condominium ownership opportunities for local residents. The carefully orchestrated refurbishment project aims to preserve the architectural integrity of the historic property while converting it into modern residential units specifically earmarked for community members seeking ownership in prestigious locations.

    The initiative represents a significant shift in urban development strategy, prioritizing local access to premium real estate that might otherwise target international investors or luxury buyers. The restoration will maintain the building’s distinctive facade and character-defining elements while introducing contemporary amenities and sustainable features expected by today’s homeowners.

    Urban planning experts note this approach addresses multiple objectives simultaneously: preserving cultural heritage assets, increasing owner-occupied housing stock, and enabling community-connected residents to establish roots in historically significant neighborhoods. The project demonstrates how adaptive reuse of heritage structures can serve both conservation goals and housing needs without compromising architectural significance.

    Prospective buyers can expect a blend of historical charm and modern convenience, with original features like cornices, moldings, and possibly even restored lobby elements incorporated into the residential design. The development timeline and purchasing process details will be announced in coming months, with priority expected to be given to long-term residents and those with demonstrated community ties.

  • Antigua Represented as ECCB Examines Management of Foreign Currency Reserves

    Antigua Represented as ECCB Examines Management of Foreign Currency Reserves

    The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s Board of Directors has conducted a special meeting to evaluate foreign currency reserve management strategies as the region prepares to commemorate five decades of its stable exchange rate mechanism. The session featured comprehensive briefings on the policies and protective measures safeguarding the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union’s reserves, which form the foundation of the fixed EC$2.70 to US$1.00 exchange rate established in July 1976.

    During the high-level discussions, directors examined the governance frameworks directing reserve management decisions, risk mitigation systems protecting the currency peg, and asset distribution approaches designed to enhance financial stability across member nations. The Board emphasized its commitment to maintaining prudent, sustainable reserve management practices capable of adapting to dynamic global financial environments.

    The meeting saw participation from all eight ECCU member states, including representation from Antigua and Barbuda alongside the seven other territories. Central Bank Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine presided over the proceedings, with Deputy Governor Dr. Valda F. Henry serving as the other executive member alongside representatives from each participating jurisdiction.

  • Cabinet Throws Full Support Behind Warri Rival Project

    Cabinet Throws Full Support Behind Warri Rival Project

    The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has unanimously endorsed the Warri Rival project, granting full governmental support to this cultural preservation initiative after Department of Creative Industries officials delivered an extensive presentation to ministers this week.

    Government ministers received an immersive demonstration highlighting Warri’s profound historical roots and cultural importance, tracing the game’s origins to ancient African civilizations and its subsequent transmission throughout Caribbean communities over centuries. Rather than presenting it as merely a recreational activity, officials framed Warri as a multifaceted educational instrument capable of developing critical cognitive abilities in youth.

    The initiative specifically emphasizes Warri’s capacity to enhance strategic thinking capabilities, cultivate patience, and strengthen problem-solving skills among younger generations—attributes identified as vital for both academic achievement and personal growth. The government’s institutional backing aims to transform the traditional board game into a mechanism for fostering national identity while creating platforms for international cultural dialogue.

    A centerpiece of the implementation strategy will be the Inter-Schools Warri Championship, an upcoming tournament designed to engage students nationwide in competitive yet culturally meaningful encounters. Event organizers anticipate this competition will serve as a cornerstone for integrating Warri more deeply into Antigua and Barbuda’s educational framework and cultural consciousness.

    With formal cabinet approval now secured, the Warri Rival project transitions from conceptualization to nationwide execution, establishing Antigua and Barbuda as a pioneering force in the Caribbean region’s revival of traditional African games.