The University of the West Indies Confucius Institute in Barbados recently celebrated the achievements of students from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions with the prestigious Chinese Ambassador Scholarships. This event highlights the island’s deepening engagement with Mandarin Chinese and its culture. Dr Che Leon Corbin, the local co-director of the Confucius Institute, emphasized the institute’s global standing, ranking among the top 10 of 500 Confucius Institutes worldwide. He noted that the program fosters cultural connections, making China feel closer to Barbados. The scholarships, funded by the Chinese Embassy in Barbados, provide financial support for students excelling in Mandarin studies, enabling them to cover educational expenses. Tyrone Yearwood, a Chinese teacher at the Institute, clarified the distinction between the Ambassador Scholarship and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) government scholarship, with the latter offering full financial support for studying in China. Professor Nie Lu, the Chinese Director of the Institute, praised the students and teachers for their dedication, emphasizing the importance of language learning in strengthening international ties. The ceremony recognized students from various schools, including St George Primary, Harrison College, and others, as well as tertiary students like Genesis Chester and Richellia Stuart. The event underscored the role of cultural exchange and language learning in building global friendships. Professor Nie encouraged the students to continue their efforts in mastering Mandarin and embracing Chinese culture, calling them pioneers in this transformative process.
博客
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St Elizabeth farmers count millions in losses after Hurricane Melissa
Farmers in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, are grappling with catastrophic losses estimated in the millions of dollars after Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, ravaged the region earlier this week. The hurricane decimated agricultural fields, destroying vital crops and leaving a trail of devastation in one of the country’s most important farming areas.
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Senator questions transparency in HOPE housing deal with Guyanese firm
A recent revelation that Modular Builds Guyana (MBG), a newly registered Guyanese company, has been contracted to construct homes under Barbados’ state-run HOPE housing project in St Lucy has sparked significant controversy. Democratic Labour Party Senator Ryan Walters has called for full transparency from the government, accusing it of operating in secrecy. The issue came to light after a social media video surfaced, showing MBG claiming to build 86 houses for HOPE Inc. using concrete board and galvanized steel frames. This disclosure has ignited public debate, as no prior announcement had been made regarding the company’s involvement in the project. Senator Walters expressed deep concern, questioning the transparency, accountability, and potential misuse of taxpayers’ funds in the housing program. He highlighted the government’s failure to act on promises made over 18 months ago to investigate HOPE Inc.’s operations and finances, referencing a special audit by the Auditor General in April that revealed mismanagement and wastage. Walters also pointed out that Modular Builds was registered in September 2025, raising questions about how a newly formed company could secure a large-scale government contract so quickly. In response, HOPE Inc. stated that MBG was awarded the contract through a rigorous tendering process and is constructing ten of the planned 86 steel-framed houses at Fustic Gardens, St Lucy. HOPE’s CEO, Mark Williamson, emphasized compliance with procurement regulations and noted that the project involves local labor and materials, with Guyanese artisans handling the erection of imported steel frames. Barbadian workers are also being trained to assist in future phases of the project.
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First Independence Day Baby Welcomed at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre
In a heartwarming celebration of national pride, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed its first Independence Day baby of the year. The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre proudly announced the birth of a healthy baby boy at 5:35 a.m. on the nation’s 44th Independence Day. The newborn, weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces, was delivered to delighted parents Glengield and Roleeka King-Henry. Hospital staff expressed immense joy, describing the birth as a symbolic and special moment to commemorate the twin-island nation’s milestone. The medical team extended heartfelt congratulations to the family and warmly welcomed the newborn, affectionately dubbed “the little king.” This joyous event not only marks a personal milestone for the King-Henry family but also serves as a beacon of hope and unity for the nation as it celebrates its independence.
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Hurricane Melissa leaves at least 30 dead as storm heads to Bermuda
The Caribbean is reeling from the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms in recorded history, which struck the region with devastating force. Making landfall in Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 hurricane, Melissa unleashed destructive winds, severe flooding, and relentless rainfall, leaving a trail of destruction across Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti. By October 30, the storm had weakened as it moved toward Bermuda, but the damage had already been done, with dozens of lives lost and communities left in ruins. Rescue and recovery operations are underway, but they are severely hindered by widespread power outages, communication breakdowns, and blocked roads. The death toll continues to rise, with over 30 fatalities reported in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Jamaican officials, including Education Minister Dana Dixon, described the devastation as unprecedented, with entire communities isolated and infrastructure flattened. Helicopters are being deployed to deliver relief supplies and transport patients, though landing in some areas remains a challenge due to debris and flooding. The emotional toll on residents is immense, with many unable to contact loved ones in the hardest-hit zones. Despite the overwhelming destruction, the global community has rallied to offer support, with countries pledging financial aid, food, and rescue teams to assist in the recovery efforts.
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POEM: Happy Independence Day Antigua And Barbuda
As the sun rises over the picturesque islands of Antigua and Barbuda, the nation comes alive with the vibrant spirit of Independence Day. This cherished occasion is marked by heartfelt celebrations, as citizens unite to honor their freedom and pay tribute to the heroes who paved the way for their sovereignty. The national flag soars proudly against the azure sky, symbolizing the resilience and strength of a people who fought valiantly for their liberty. Songs of freedom echo across the land, accompanied by joyous dances that reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Families gather to remember their loved ones, holding them close in their hearts even as they celebrate the day’s significance. Stories of brave heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence are recounted, inspiring a deep sense of gratitude and pride. As evening falls, the night sky is illuminated by dazzling fireworks, painting a canvas of light and hope. Antigua and Barbuda, a land of peace and love, remains deeply rooted in the hearts of its people. On this special day, citizens reaffirm their commitment to unity and freedom, marching hand in hand and singing in unison. The bond of freedom elevates their spirits, reminding them of the strength found in their collective voices. As the celebrations continue, the nation prays for lasting peace, joy, and prosperity. Happy Independence Day to all, and may the spirit of freedom resonate far and wide.
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PM Browne Promises Food Sovereignty Through Domestic Agriculture Investments
Antigua and Barbuda is making significant strides toward achieving food sovereignty, as announced by Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The government is channeling resources into enhancing agricultural infrastructure, establishing abattoirs, and developing a state-of-the-art agro-processing hub. These initiatives aim to reduce dependency on imported food and bolster local production. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the dual benefits of these efforts, stating, ‘By feeding ourselves, we are feeding our pride and preserving our sovereignty.’ He also highlighted the guaranteed markets for local farmers, ensuring their products have a stable and reliable outlet. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s self-sufficiency and economic resilience in the face of global food supply challenges.
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Do not label all immigrants as criminals- Ali
In a powerful address during the 60th anniversary religious service of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), President Irfaan Ali condemned the recent bombing of a Mobil gas station in Georgetown as an act of terrorism. The attack, carried out by a Venezuelan man on October 26, 2025, was described by the President as an attempt to sow fear and destabilize the nation. However, Ali emphasized the importance of not generalizing all immigrants as criminals, urging Guyanese to resist prejudice and discrimination. ‘Hatred is not the answer to hatred. Fear must not drive our national policy,’ he stated. The President reassured attendees, including military and police officials, that the government is intensifying its monitoring and enforcement measures to ensure compliance with the law while maintaining compassion for those in need. He affirmed Guyana’s commitment to being a vigilant yet compassionate nation. The suspect, allegedly linked to the ‘R’ Sindicato gang in Venezuela, entered Guyana illegally and conducted surveillance before the bombing. Authorities are considering terrorism charges, which carry the death penalty, alongside other serious offenses. President Ali vowed to uncover the motive behind the attack, pledging to support law enforcement in maintaining peace and justice.
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‘New money’: UWI researchers to design new islands climate finance framework
Two distinguished researchers from the University of the West Indies (UWI) are spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to channel concessional climate finance to small developing states, including Barbados, under a One Health climate-resilience framework. Dr. Kirk Douglas, Director of the Centre for Biosecurity Studies at UWI Cave Hill, and Dr. Preeya Mohan, a climate-finance economist at UWI’s St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad, are collaborating to design a novel climate-finance architecture. This initiative aligns with the Bridgetown Initiative, aiming to support low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in building resilience against climate change. The One Health approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, fostering sustainable practices, enhancing early warning systems, and creating robust health systems to mitigate risks like zoonotic diseases, food insecurity, and antimicrobial resistance. The Bridgetown Initiative, led by Barbados, calls for urgent reforms to the outdated international financial architecture, which fails to address contemporary challenges such as climate risks and social inequalities. Dr. Douglas, a delegate at the recent World Organisation for Animal Health Global Conference in Geneva, highlighted the critical need for a paradigm shift in climate-resilient financing. He stressed that One Health events should be recognized as climate events within climate finance frameworks, addressing the pervasive impacts of infectious diseases, vector-borne diseases, and plant health emergencies. This innovative approach aims to bridge the gap in funding and resonate with global financial stakeholders, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for vulnerable nations.
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Police Search for Suspect Who Stole Visitor’s Bag
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an investigation into a reported theft at Old Runaway Beach, targeting a visitor’s personal belongings. The incident occurred between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, when the victim’s brown shoulder bag, containing travel documents, a rental vehicle key, wallet, identification and credit cards, and an undisclosed amount of cash, was stolen from her parked vehicle. Police swiftly responded to the report and managed to recover the bag and most of its contents, though the cash remains missing. The recovered items have been returned to the visitor, and efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspect(s). Authorities are urging anyone with information or who witnessed suspicious activity in the area to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913. In light of the incident, the police are also advising residents and visitors to exercise caution and secure their belongings, particularly in public spaces like beaches. The Police Administration emphasized the importance of public cooperation in safeguarding visitors and maintaining Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a secure and welcoming tourist destination, which is crucial for the nation’s economy.