Barbuda has undergone a remarkable economic transformation, evolving from a state of chronic underdevelopment to becoming a net contributor to the national economy, as announced by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams during the Throne Speech at the opening of Parliament on Thursday. Sir Rodney described Barbuda as ‘a diamond in the rough for more than 60 years,’ but emphasized that a wave of significant investments since 2014 has reshaped its economic landscape. Key developments include high-profile hospitality projects such as PLH, Rosewood, Louie Hill, and Nobu, alongside substantial infrastructure upgrades like paved roads, street lighting, and new public facilities. These initiatives, according to Sir Rodney, have propelled Barbuda into a position of net economic contribution—a milestone never achieved since the establishment of the Barbuda Council. The Governor General also highlighted the island’s new international airport, the Burton-Nibbs Airport, as a cornerstone of this transformation. He outlined further plans, including a new seaport for container ships, expanded road networks, green energy plants, freshwater production facilities, and housing projects to rebuild after Hurricane Irma. A pivotal factor in this progress has been the resolution of long-standing land tenure issues. Sir Rodney explained that the repeal of the 2007 land law and its replacement with a fairer system granting land titles to long-term residents has addressed a historical injustice and unlocked new opportunities for investment. The nation’s apex court affirmed that all non-privately owned land in Antigua and Barbuda belongs to the Crown, providing a secure foundation for development. Sir Rodney attributed this success to the unwavering vision of national leadership and their commitment to implementing long-delayed reforms. With additional projects, such as the planned seaport, Barbuda is poised for sustained economic growth, marking a historic shift in its modern development trajectory.
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Minor Raped By Her Two Brothers, Assaulted by Stepfather
Authorities in Punta Gorda, Toledo District, are currently investigating a deeply distressing case involving the alleged sexual abuse of a 12-year-old girl by her own family members. The investigation, which began in November 2025, was initiated after the minor, accompanied by a social worker and a relative, reported the harrowing incidents to the police. According to the report, the young girl claims that her two brothers engaged in non-consensual sexual acts with her on multiple occasions during October and November 2025. Additionally, her stepfather is accused of sexually assaulting her during the same period. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, raising serious concerns about child safety and familial abuse. Law enforcement officials are working diligently to gather evidence and ensure justice is served. This remains a developing story, with further updates expected as the investigation progresses.
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Miss Universe Judges Resign, Say It’s Rigged!
The Miss Universe pageant, set to take place on November 20, 2025, in Thailand, has been rocked by controversy following the resignation of two judges. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch, one of the departing judges, took to Instagram to announce his exit, alleging that an ‘impromptu jury’ had preselected 30 finalists without the official panel’s knowledge. Harfouch suggested that this group included individuals with personal ties to certain contestants, raising concerns about the fairness of the competition. The Miss Universe Organisation swiftly denied these allegations, stating that no unauthorized group had been involved in the selection process. They clarified that Harfouch might have confused the situation with Beyond the Crown, a separate social impact initiative with its own independent committee. On the same day, French football manager Claude Makélélé also stepped down, citing personal reasons but expressing respect for the pageant. These resignations come in the wake of another incident in Thailand, where several contestants walked out of a pre-pageant event after Thailand’s national director publicly criticized Miss Mexico for failing to post promotional content. Despite the turmoil, Miss Universe officials have assured the public that preparations for the finals remain on track.
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St Jude Hospital begins Phase 1 commissioning after handover
The St. Jude Hospital (SJH) project has reached a significant milestone with the official handover of the completed hospital buildings from contractor Rayneau Gajadhar to the Ministry of Health and the Government of Saint Lucia. The ceremony, held on November 16, marked the beginning of the hospital’s commissioning process rather than its opening. This phase involves preparing the facility for safe and effective operation, including the installation and testing of medical equipment, staff training, and the transition of administrative services. According to Communications Specialist Jade Brown, the hospital is currently in phase one of commissioning, which includes relocating administrative and support services to the new Augier site. The finance department has already begun operations at the permanent location, with other departments such as the kitchen, laundry, and physiotherapy scheduled to follow. Physiotherapy services, temporarily suspended during the move, will resume on November 24 at the new site. Brown highlighted that the delayed arrival of medical equipment, partly due to Hurricane Melissa, has slowed the transition of clinical departments. Three containers of equipment have arrived, with more expected. Brown clarified that the contractor’s continued presence is essential for equipment installation, staff training, and ensuring a smooth transition. She emphasized that patient relocation will only occur once all systems are fully operational and staff are adequately trained. The commissioning team, comprising medical professionals, technocrats, and contractor representatives, continues to assess the hospital’s readiness and plan the next steps in the transition process.
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Republic Bank en UNICEF versterken vroegeducatie in Suriname
In a landmark collaboration aimed at enhancing early childhood education, Republic Bank (Suriname) N.V. and UNICEF Suriname have officially joined forces. The partnership, part of Republic Bank’s ‘Power to Make a Difference’ initiative, was launched during a signing ceremony held at the Marriott Hotel. Brian Alleyne, Managing Director of Republic Bank (Suriname) N.V., and Gabriel Vockel, UNICEF Representative for Suriname and Guyana, formalized the agreement with their signatures. The program focuses on equipping daycare centers with essential learning materials and educational tools, fostering inclusive and child-friendly environments, and enhancing the skills of caregivers in early stimulation and play-based learning. Parents will also receive practical guidance to support their children’s development at home. UNICEF emphasized the critical importance of investing in early education, noting that over half of Suriname’s three-year-olds are currently not enrolled in any learning program. Republic Bank echoed this sentiment, stating that investing in children is synonymous with investing in the future. The event was enlivened with performances by toddlers and concluded with the signing of a heart-shaped symbol, where young children placed colorful handprints as a symbol of hope and growth. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring every child in Suriname has the opportunity to learn, discover, and grow through play.
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Grenadian Culinary Delegation at Festival de la Gastronomie 2025
Grenada is set to make a remarkable culinary statement at the grand finale of the 2025 Festival de la Gastronomie in Marigot, St Martin. Organized by the Grenada Office of Creative Affairs (GOCA), the event titled ‘From the Roots to the Horizon: A Journey of Grenadian History Through Flavours’ will take place on November 22. The Grenadian delegation, led by renowned chefs Anthony Johnson and Joachim Joseph, aims to highlight the island’s rich culinary traditions and innovative gastronomy. Johnson, President of the Grenada Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Association (GGCAA) Inc., expressed pride in representing Grenada and sharing its unique culinary narrative. The presentation will feature two signature dishes: Tri-Island Oil Down, presented in chicken/pork, seafood, and vegan variations, and Sweet Potato Pone with a Twist, incorporating passion fruit as a nod to the festival’s theme. This participation underscores GOCA’s commitment to developing gastronomy as a key sector within Grenada’s creative economy, with significant investments planned for 2026. Senator Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, emphasized the importance of supporting culinary creatives through advanced training and infrastructure. The 12-day festival, now in its fifth edition, celebrates Caribbean collaboration, bringing together chefs from Grenada, Dominica, Barbados, Haiti, and Curaçao to showcase the region’s diverse flavors and culinary artistry.
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Cricket West Indies announces team for test series against New Zealand
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, set to take place from December 1 to December 21 across Christchurch, Wellington, and Mount Maunganui. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship for 2025-2027 and marks the West Indies’ final fixture of the year.
Due to injuries sustained earlier this year, Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable for the tour. In their absence, experienced fast bowler Kemar Roach has been recalled to bolster the squad’s pace attack, which also includes newcomer Ojay Shields, receiving his first national call-up. The team recently completed a two-week high-performance camp in Antigua, focusing on preparing for the pace-friendly conditions expected in New Zealand.
Kavem Hodge has been included in the squad following impressive performances against fast bowling, while Khary Pierre has been omitted as spin bowling is not anticipated to play a significant role in the series.
Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, emphasized the importance of targeted preparation for the tour. He highlighted the efforts made to replicate New Zealand’s conditions during the high-performance camp in Antigua. Bascombe noted that several squad members are already in New Zealand for the white-ball portion of the tour, giving them valuable time to acclimate.
The Caribbean-based players joined the rest of the squad in New Zealand on November 20, allowing them time to adjust and participate in a two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI in Lincoln, Christchurch.
West Indies Test Squad for New Zealand:
– Roston Chase (Captain)
– Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain)
– Alick Athanaze
– John Campbell
– Tagenarine Chanderpaul
– Justin Greaves
– Kavem Hodge
– Shai Hope
– Tevin Imlach
– Brandon King
– Johann Layne
– Anderson Phillip
– Kemar Roach
– Jayden Seales
– Ojay ShieldsTeam Management:
– Head Coach: Daren Sammy
– Manager: Rawl Lewis
– Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer
– Assistant Coach (Bowling): Ravi Rampaul
– Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith
– Physiotherapist: Dr. Denis Byam
– Mental Skills/Performance Coach: Krisnan Hurdle
– Strength & Conditioning Coach: Darc Browne
– Massage Therapist: Fitzbert Alleyne
– Performance Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram
– Content & Media Officer: Jerome FosterTour Schedule (Caribbean Time):
– Warm-Up Match: November 25-26, Lincoln, Christchurch
– 1st Test: December 1-5, Hagley Oval, Christchurch, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time
– 2nd Test: December 9-13, Basin Reserve, Wellington, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time
– 3rd Test: December 17-21, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time -
interCaribbean partners with Virgin Atlantic for single-ticket, interline agreement
interCaribbean Airways has unveiled a groundbreaking interline partnership with Virgin Atlantic, marking a significant step in enhancing travel connectivity between the Caribbean and the United Kingdom. The collaboration, centered around key hubs in Barbados and Antigua, aims to streamline travel for passengers by offering seamless connections to Virgin Atlantic’s global network. According to an official statement from interCaribbean, this alliance will enable travelers to book a single ticket for their entire journey, simplifying the check-in process and ensuring smooth transfers at designated connection points. Passengers will benefit from interCaribbean’s regional routes while gaining access to Virgin Atlantic flights to London and other international destinations. Trevor Sadler, CEO of interCaribbean Airways, hailed the partnership as a pivotal moment in the airline’s mission to bolster Caribbean connectivity. He emphasized that the collaboration with Virgin Atlantic not only expands travel options for Caribbean residents but also invites Virgin Atlantic customers to explore the Caribbean’s rich cultural and natural diversity. Additionally, the partnership is poised to create new opportunities for Caribbean diaspora communities in the UK, facilitating easier visits to family and friends across the region.
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Envoy highlights humanitarian aid amid rising tensions in Caribbean
Venezuelan Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Leiff Escalona, has reiterated her nation’s dedication to fostering regional solidarity and peace, while voicing apprehension over the resumption of military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago, conducted with US support. Escalona highlighted Venezuela’s recent humanitarian efforts, including the delivery of 46 tonnes of aid to Cuba and Jamaica, both severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The aid comprised food, medicines, medical supplies, and mattresses, with Cuba receiving 26 tonnes and Jamaica 20.
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House Speaker Back On Duty After Cancer Recovery
House Speaker Valarie Woods has made a triumphant return to the National Assembly building nearly a year after disclosing her breast cancer diagnosis. Her comeback was met with heartfelt support from Prime Minister John Briceño, who personally welcomed her back with words of encouragement. “We are overjoyed to see you return in such excellent health. Despite the challenges, you appear more vibrant than ever,” Briceño remarked. In mid-October, Woods marked a significant milestone by ringing the bell at her treatment center, a symbolic gesture signifying the completion of her chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. This joyous ceremony was celebrated by Woods and her supporters at the center, marking a new chapter in her journey. Her return not only signifies personal victory but also serves as an inspiration to many facing similar battles.