On October 23, 2025, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, in partnership with the Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF), unveiled the Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Project during the 11th Council of Ministers: Health meeting. This initiative, supported by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, aims to address critical challenges in eye care across the region, including limited resources, accessibility, and equity. The project aligns with the OECS Heads of Government’s mandate to establish Centres of Excellence in healthcare. A comprehensive fact-finding assessment will be conducted to evaluate eye care needs and capacities within member states, ensuring the development of an evidence-based Regional Eye Health Strategy. Guided by the World Health Organisation’s “Eye Care in Health Systems: Guide for Action,” the initiative will generate robust data to identify prevalent eye conditions, at-risk populations, and targeted interventions. Honourable Philip Telesford, Grenada’s Minister for Health and incoming Chair of the OECS PPS Board, endorsed the project, describing it as a “blueprint for action” that prioritizes equity and integrated, people-centred care. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, emphasized the strategy’s role in fostering long-term health resilience. Tony Weeks, President and CEO of the BSF, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to equitable healthcare access and the collaborative efforts to eliminate preventable blindness. The project’s findings will be showcased at the inaugural Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and OECS Strategic Priority 5: advancing Equity and Inclusion.
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Dangriga Mother Receives New Home Ahead of Christmas
As the festive season approaches, a Dangriga mother of five, Mirza Ariola, has been gifted a new home, marking a significant milestone in her life. This heartwarming gesture was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Belize Bank and Hand in Hand Ministries’ Building for Change programme. The official handover and house blessing ceremony took place on Friday, where Ariola became the 14th beneficiary of this 14-year partnership aimed at providing secure and stable housing for families in need. Ariola expressed her profound gratitude in a social media post, stating, ‘This is what compassion looks like. You guys really put in the work. Words can’t express how thankful I am. May the good lord continue to bless all of you in a very special way, and may your basket never run dry.’ Since its inception in 2002, the Building for Change initiative has constructed over 500 small wooden homes across Belize, often with the assistance of international volunteer groups and local business sponsors. This year, volunteers from Belize Bank’s Dangriga Branch worked diligently alongside Ariola’s family to ensure the home was completed in time for the handover.
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OECS Commission joins Brenda Stafford Foundation to launch regional eye health initiative
On October 23, 2025, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, in collaboration with the Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, unveiled the Regional Eye Health Strategic Plan Initiative during the 11th Council of Ministers: Health meeting. This landmark initiative, sponsored by the BSF, aims to address critical eye care needs across the Caribbean by establishing Centers of Excellence in healthcare, as directed by OECS Heads of Government. The project seeks to overcome resource limitations, enhance access, and promote equity in health services across member nations. A comprehensive assessment conducted by the OECS Commission, with support from the BSF, identified prevalent eye conditions, vulnerable populations, and priority areas for intervention. Drawing inspiration from the World Health Organization’s “Eye Care in Health Systems: Guide for Action,” the initiative will develop an evidence-based strategy aligned with regional and national health priorities. By leveraging detailed epidemiological data, the plan aims to optimize resource allocation and improve health outcomes across the Caribbean. Honourable Philip Telesford, Grenada’s Minister of Health and incoming Chair of the OECS PPS Board, endorsed the project, describing it as a “blueprint for action” that fosters equity and shifts towards a unified, patient-centered approach. Mrs. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, emphasized the initiative’s role in strengthening long-term health resilience, calling it a roadmap for measurable goals and collaborative action. Mr. Tony Weeks, President and CEO of the BSF, highlighted the partnership’s four-decade commitment to eye health, noting the region’s determination to eliminate preventable blindness. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and OECS Strategic Priority 5, promoting equity and inclusion. Its findings will be presented at the 2026 Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua and Barbuda.
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2025 Grenlec Debates final
On November 18, 2025, the Crown Ballroom at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort hosted a spirited debate on the theme ‘Nationalism and Culture.’ The motion centered on whether sports heroes contribute more to Grenada’s national identity than musicians or artists. The event saw intense competition between The Anglican High School and St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School, with the latter emerging victorious with 343 points. The Anglican High School secured second place with 322 points, while St Joseph’s Convent, St George, and Presentation Brothers College claimed third place. The debate featured talented debaters from both teams, with Jayna Caton, Jahzara Date, Courtnee James, Jinnah Morain, and Makiah Ramsey representing The Anglican High School, and Shemmicah Lindsey, Calvin Clyne, Jenee Andrew, Kheun Smart, and Desali Jones from St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School. The audience, comprising over 4,500 social media voters, crowned Ethan Auguste from Presentation Brothers College and Kaina Carter from St George’s Institute as the favorite debaters. Coaches and principals from both schools expressed pride in their students’ performances, highlighting the event’s significance in fostering critical thinking and cultural discourse among Grenada’s youth.
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NOTICE: A VOTE FOR DR. FRIDAY IS A WASTED VOTE
In a heated political debate, Dr. Godwin Friday, the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the Northern Grenadines, faces allegations of ineligibility to serve as a member of Parliament. Critics argue that his Canadian citizenship disqualifies him under Section 26(1) of the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which prohibits individuals from holding office if they acknowledge allegiance to a foreign state. Dr. Friday voluntarily obtained Canadian citizenship and a passport, actions that opponents claim constitute an acknowledgment of allegiance to Canada. An objection to his nomination was filed by electors on November 10, 2025, challenging his qualification. The controversy raises questions about the validity of his candidacy, with opponents urging voters to reconsider their support, labeling a vote for Dr. Friday as ‘wasted.’ The outcome of this legal challenge could significantly impact the political landscape of the Northern Grenadines.
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NOTICE: A VOTE FOR DWIGHT FITZGERALD BRAMBLE IS A WASTED VOTE
Residents of East Kingstown are being urged to reconsider their support for Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble, the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the upcoming parliamentary elections. A significant legal challenge has been raised against his candidacy, citing constitutional violations that could render his nomination invalid. According to Section 26 (1) of the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, no individual who acknowledges allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power or state is eligible for election as a member of Parliament. Mr. Bramble, a Canadian citizen, voluntarily obtained Canadian citizenship and has been using a Canadian passport, which places him in direct violation of this constitutional provision. On Nomination Day, November 10, 2025, electors from East Kingstown formally objected to his nomination, arguing that his candidacy is legally untenable. The objection underscores that a valid nomination is a prerequisite for a legitimate election, and any vote cast for Mr. Bramble would be rendered ineffective. Constituents are assured that this challenge will be pursued rigorously, ensuring that only qualified candidates remain in the race. The message is clear: a vote for Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble is a wasted vote.
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PHOTOS: Two Ministry of Works Projects Advance: Cedar Grove Pour and Point Upgrades
Two major infrastructure initiatives under the Ministry of Works have achieved notable milestones, signaling a boost in public infrastructure development. The Cedar Grove Pour project, a critical endeavor aimed at enhancing local road networks, has successfully completed a key phase. Simultaneously, the Point Upgrades initiative, designed to modernize essential public facilities, is also progressing steadily. These projects are part of the government’s broader strategy to improve community infrastructure and ensure sustainable urban development. The advancements are expected to significantly benefit residents by improving transportation efficiency and upgrading public amenities. The Ministry of Works has emphasized its commitment to timely project delivery and maintaining high-quality standards throughout the construction process.
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At COP30, Caribbean reports unveiled to promote strengthening of regional resilience
As the global climate summit, COP30, enters its final week, the spotlight has shifted to the Caribbean, where Climate Analytics Caribbean unveiled two pivotal reports aimed at bolstering regional resilience and accelerating the energy transition. The presentations took place at the CARICOM Pavilion on November 18, featuring prominent figures such as The Honourable Senator Dr. Joyelle Trizia Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Action of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Mr. Chamberlain Emmanuel, Head of the Environmental Sustainability Division of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.
The first report, ‘Refining the Regional Goal on Adaptation for the Caribbean,’ authored by Sasha Jattansingh, Deputy Director and Senior Adaptation and Loss and Damage Adviser at Climate Analytics Caribbean, updates the proposed Regional Goal on Adaptation (RGA). This document aims to elevate climate adaptation efforts by addressing funding, capacity, and technical support gaps while promoting effective governance. It outlines fourteen strategic targets—eight thematic and six cross-cutting—that align with Caribbean priorities and contribute to the global Climate Goal on Adaptation (GGA).
The second report, ‘Pathways to Global Stocktake Implementation in the Caribbean,’ co-authored by Kory Hall and Kristin Qui, emphasizes the urgency of the Caribbean’s energy transition. With renewable energy accounting for only 12% of the region’s electricity in 2022, the report calls for tripling renewable capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030 to meet the Global Stocktake (GST) and Caribbean Sustainable Energy Roadmap and Strategy (C-SERMS) targets. It highlights the need for regulatory reforms, enhanced data systems, and regional cooperation to align Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) with GST efforts.
Endorsements from industry leaders like Philip Julien, CEO of Kenesjay Green Systems, and Mairi Dupar, Senior Research Fellow at ODI Global, underscored the importance of interconnectedness in empowering communities and scaling up financial and technological solutions. Minister Clarke concluded the session by advocating for international support to accelerate sustainable projects, particularly through the SKN-100 initiative, which aims to decarbonize St. Kitts and Nevis’ energy sector.
Both reports are set for publication later this year, marking a significant step in the Caribbean’s fight against climate change.
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ANALYSIS: What are US aims toward Venezuela? The historical parallel is Panama – not Iraq
Brett McGurk, a seasoned CNN global affairs analyst with extensive experience in national security roles across four U.S. presidencies, reflects on the parallels and pitfalls of U.S. military interventions. Drawing from his harrowing arrival in Baghdad in 2004, McGurk emphasizes the importance of prudence in foreign policy, particularly when deploying military power. His insights come amid escalating tensions in Venezuela, where the U.S. has mobilized 15% of its naval forces and conducted ground exercises nearby. While some draw comparisons to the Iraq War, McGurk argues that Venezuela’s situation more closely resembles Panama in 1989, where a successful U.S. operation ousted dictator Manuel Noriega and restored democracy. However, he warns that Venezuela’s complexities—such as its size, internal divisions, and the involvement of global powers like Russia and China—make it a far riskier endeavor. McGurk also highlights the Trump administration’s ambiguous strategy, dubbed Operation Southern Spear, which aims to combat narcoterrorism but leaves room for broader objectives. While the removal of Nicolás Maduro could benefit both Venezuela and the U.S., McGurk cautions against military intervention, advocating instead for leveraging diplomatic and economic pressure to achieve key objectives, such as free elections and the dismantling of drug networks. He stresses the need for congressional debate and regional support before any decisive action is taken, underscoring the lessons learned from decades of protracted military engagements.
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PHOTOS: 24 derelict vehicles removed from Yorks Community
The National Clean-up Campaign has made remarkable strides in the Yorks Community, with a significant milestone achieved last Saturday. Nearly two dozen abandoned vehicles were successfully removed from the area, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to revitalize the neighborhood. This initiative, part of a broader national movement, aims to address urban blight and enhance the quality of life for residents. The removal of these derelict vehicles not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the community but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing potential hazards and pollution. Local authorities have praised the collaborative efforts of volunteers and government agencies, emphasizing the campaign’s role in fostering community pride and environmental stewardship. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, residents remain optimistic about the long-term benefits it will bring to their community.