A severe accident in the community of El Maizal, Valverde province, left 23 Haitian nationals injured after the minibus they were traveling in lost control, plunged into a river, and subsequently caught fire. The incident occurred last Friday night, prompting a swift and coordinated response from the National Emergency and Security System 9-1-1. Among the injured were four minors, three women, and 16 men, all of whom received immediate pre-hospital care and initial medical evaluations. Emergency services, including 13 ambulances from the Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Care Services (DAEH), two units from the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transport (Digesett), and teams from the National Police, Fire Department, and Military and Police Commission (Comipol), converged on the scene. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and secure the area, while medical personnel conducted victim triage, stabilization, and transport to nearby health centers. Simultaneously, Digesett, Comipol, and the National Police managed traffic flow and ensured perimeter safety during the rescue operations. The identities and immigration statuses of the victims remain undisclosed, with authorities expected to release a detailed report on the incident shortly.
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Column: Voorbereidingen op play-off tegen Bolivia per direct van start
Following a disappointing 3-1 loss to Guatemala, the Natio men’s football team, under coach Menzo, will face intercontinental playoffs in March next year for one of the final two World Cup tickets. Their journey begins against Bolivia, with a potential follow-up match against Iraq. As the team looks ahead, it’s crucial to dissect the factors behind Tuesday night’s defeat and strategize for future success. While the technical staff’s decision to alter the lineup raised questions—such as why Boëtius was benched while Jubitana and Chery started—the focus should be on the subpar preparation. After a stellar 4-0 victory against El Salvador, the team had five days to recover and prepare. However, the logistics were far from ideal. The squad flew via Panama to Guatemala, arriving at their hotel after midnight. A direct charter flight on Friday would have been less exhausting and provided an extra day to acclimatize to the 1,500-meter altitude. Despite the luxurious hotel, delayed meals and the growing presence of fans disrupted the players’ routine. The training sessions were equally problematic. On Sunday, the intended stadium was closed, forcing a last-minute scramble for an alternative location across Guatemala City. The team, escorted by heavily armed military jeeps, navigated through heavy traffic, arriving at a poorly lit field. The next day, training was canceled due to a waterlogged pitch, and the team had to train at a distant sports complex. While Natio’s preparation pales in comparison to European Champions League teams, it’s essential to control as many variables as possible. Looking ahead, the team must lobby to avoid playing in Guadalajara’s high altitude, secure a suitable hotel and training facility, and negotiate efficient travel arrangements. With these measures, Natio can ensure their next opponent doesn’t have the upper hand.
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It all depends on the color… Subtracting from the positive signs of the Dominican Republic’s economy
The Dominican Republic faces a complex economic landscape as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) emphasizes the urgent need for fiscal and structural reforms. While the country has demonstrated resilience in navigating a turbulent global environment, concerns persist over stagnant incomes, chronic budgetary deficits, and rising public debt. The IMF has called for immediate action to address these issues, particularly in the electricity sector, where subsidies are escalating while revenue from energy supply declines. Economist Rosa Cañete Alonso echoed these concerns, warning that the nation is trapped in a cycle of stagnant revenues and rigid spending, prioritizing debt repayment over future investments. Despite these challenges, the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic highlighted positive developments, noting sustained economic growth and a 3% increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2024, contrasting with an 11% global decline. The Central Bank emphasized the country’s ability to cover its current account deficit and strengthen its regional economic position. However, the opposition has criticized the government, accusing it of economic mismanagement and deteriorating public services. Columnist José Luis Taveras urged the opposition to move beyond unconstructive criticism and propose viable solutions. As the Dominican Republic balances optimism with pressing reforms, the path to sustained economic stability remains a critical focus.
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Regering geeft SRD 1000 aan ambtenaren en kwetsbare groepen
In a significant move to support vulnerable populations, the Surinamese government has announced a one-time, tax-free payment of SRD 1000 for civil servants, individuals with disabilities, low-income households, and pensioners in December 2025. The decision, unveiled by the Cabinet of the President, underscores the administration’s commitment to social responsibility. While the total cost of this initiative remains undisclosed, the government emphasizes its focus on aiding the working class, which plays a pivotal role in societal functioning, as long as financial conditions permit. The payment is intended as a gesture of gratitude for the contributions of these groups throughout 2025. Additionally, the government highlights the need to prioritize vulnerable households, according to the Suriname Communication Service. Despite the country’s ongoing financial challenges, the administration deems it essential to provide such support. Since taking office, the government has implemented measures to reduce income tax on overtime, holiday allowances, bonuses, and gratuities to bolster purchasing power. Efforts are also underway to keep the prices of essential goods affordable. Furthermore, the administration is working to increase state revenues, ease interest and repayment obligations, control inflation, and stabilize the exchange rate. The government stresses the importance of collective motivation to build a more prosperous Suriname, ensuring well-being for all.
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Somoharjdo over intrekken perceel: De steiger is van het volk
The Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB) in Suriname has officially revoked the allocated land parcel near the public pier in Leonsberg, previously granted to Sandiep Seemangal. The decision, signed by Minister Stanley Soeropawiro, emphasizes that the revocation was made in the interest of the public. ‘The pier does not belong to an individual but to the people. Minister Soeropawiro has taken the necessary action,’ stated Bronto Somohardjo, Chairman of the GBB Standing Committee, in an interview with Starnieuws. Somohardjo further stressed that the government, with parliamentary support, is committed to reclaiming unlawfully allocated public resources and ensuring that public facilities remain accessible. ‘We will no longer tolerate the privatization of public amenities. Wrongs must be righted. Boat operators will be protected, and the people’s access to the pier will be guaranteed,’ he added. The investigation revealed several critical issues: the parcel borders a public walkway to the pier, which has been in use for decades; its allocation obstructed access to the pier, disregarding existing infrastructure; the Maritime Authority Suriname raised navigational concerns; the land was largely overgrown with weeds and lacked any construction; and no compensation is due to the beneficiary as the revocation serves the public interest. A map confirms the 1,018 m² parcel’s location along the road to the pier, underscoring its role as a vital public access point.
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Child dies, several hurt in minibus accident
A devastating minibus accident in east Berbice on Friday, November 21, 2025, resulted in the death of a child and left several others injured, including a teacher in critical condition. According to police reports, the incident occurred as the group was returning from a school sports event in Springlands. The driver, who was also a teacher, reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn. The child sustained severe injuries and tragically succumbed to them. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community. The injured victims are receiving medical attention, with the driver’s condition described as critical. This tragic event underscores the importance of road safety measures, particularly for school transportation.
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‘Big push’: tourism eyes European, emerging Eastern markets
Barbados is intensifying its efforts to expand its tourism sector by targeting key markets in Europe and Eastern regions, according to Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill. The strategy, unveiled during a recent Tourism Industry update at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, emphasizes strengthening air connectivity from Manchester, England, and deepening engagement in Eastern Europe. Gooding-Edghill highlighted Eastern Europe as a priority, citing its wealth potential and the need to drive additional European business. He stressed the importance of securing airlift from Manchester, particularly for summer tourism, while acknowledging the challenge of maintaining competitive pricing. The minister also underscored the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing marketing strategies, stating, ‘We will have a heavy AI influence as part of our approach to marketing Barbados.’ Andrea Franklin, CEO of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), emphasized the benefits of diversifying into Latin America, niche European markets, and regions like the UAE, Qatar, and East Asia. She called for improved visitor experiences, including multilingual menus, extended kitchen hours, and professional transport services. Franklin also urged a national commitment to service excellence, noting that BTMI is collaborating with the Barbados Chamber of Commerce to implement a National Service Excellence initiative. She stressed that the visitor experience is a collective responsibility, stating, ‘The visitor experience is built by all of us.’
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High demand from Argentinians to Puerto Plata “surprises” Wyndham
Viva Resorts by Wyndham is experiencing unprecedented demand from Argentine travelers, driven by new air connectivity and a strategic shift in tourist preferences. Viviana Cuomo, Regional Sales Manager for South America, revealed these developments during the Tourism Marketing Meeting (ECTU) at the Marriott Hotel in Buenos Aires.
Cuomo reported exceptional performance across the group’s Dominican properties, particularly highlighting the Viva Tangerine and Viva Heavens resorts in Puerto Plata. These northern region hotels have become standout choices for the upcoming season, benefiting significantly from Copa Airlines’ expanded flight routes from Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza.
The executive identified three key factors driving Argentine interest: competitive pricing, sargassum-free beaches, and diverse cultural experiences beyond traditional resort offerings. Puerto Plata’s comprehensive package—including Tobacco and Rum Circuit tours, Cocoa excursions, key island visits, dolphin water parks, and rich historical attractions—resonates strongly with modern travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Financially, Puerto Plata presents a compelling value proposition with packages starting at $1,700-1,800 during peak season, positioning it favorably against both Punta Cana and Brazilian alternatives. Meanwhile, Viva Miches has completed its first year of operation with remarkably positive market reception, further strengthening the brand’s regional footprint.
This surge in Argentine visitors represents a significant market transformation, with travelers increasingly prioritizing new destinations, seaweed-free beaches, and differentiated experiences that combine recreational and cultural elements.
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Residents Acted Quickly to save accident victims
In a remarkable display of civic responsibility and quick thinking, local residents played a pivotal role in rescuing victims of a recent accident. The incident, which occurred in a bustling neighborhood, saw bystanders immediately spring into action upon witnessing the collision. Eyewitnesses reported that several individuals rushed to the scene, providing first aid and ensuring the safety of those involved until emergency services arrived. Their prompt intervention not only stabilized the victims but also prevented further complications. Emergency responders later praised the community’s swift and coordinated efforts, highlighting how such immediate actions can significantly impact the outcome of critical situations. This event underscores the importance of public awareness and preparedness in handling emergencies, serving as a powerful reminder of the collective strength inherent in local communities.
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Boekpresentatie On(t)roerend Goed
In a thought-provoking presentation on November 19, 2025, legal scholar Carlo Jadnanansing unveiled his latest work, *On(t)roerend Goed*, a collection of 45 articles addressing Suriname’s complex property laws. The event, organized by the SJV, SJB, and Carlo Jad Fonds (CJF), highlighted Jadnanansing’s critique of the traditional interpretation of allodial property rights (aeeb) and his arguments for their continued legal relevance.