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  • COMMENTARY: World Creole Music Festival – Celebrating culture, heritage, and community

    COMMENTARY: World Creole Music Festival – Celebrating culture, heritage, and community

    The World Creole Music Festival, a cornerstone of Dominica’s cultural identity, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the island’s cultural evolution. This premier event has solidified Dominica’s reputation as the Caribbean’s hub for Creole music and heritage, blending rhythm, language, and identity into a vibrant celebration that resonates both locally and globally.

    The festival’s origins trace back to 1995, when the United Workers’ Party (UWP) government revitalized the vision for a cultural festival. The National Development Corporation (NDC) board, under the leadership of Chairman Oliver J. Seraphin, played a pivotal role in establishing the Cadence Festival, later known as the Cadence-Zouk Festival. Key contributors included prominent figures such as McCarthy Marie, Stanley Georges, and Sobers Esprit, who worked tirelessly to bring the festival to life. The establishment of the Dominica Festivals Commission in 1996 further institutionalized the event, ensuring its long-term success.

    Over the years, the World Creole Music Festival has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting thousands of visitors annually and significantly boosting Dominica’s hospitality sector. Beyond its economic impact, the festival serves as a platform for preserving and promoting Creole music genres like Cadence-Lypso, Zouk, and Bouyon. It also fosters unity among Dominica’s diaspora and strengthens regional cultural ties.

    As the festival looks to the future, there is a renewed focus on expanding its global vision. Proposals include incorporating Creole crafts, culinary showcases, and artisan markets to deepen its cultural reach. The event stands as a testament to collaboration, creativity, and community spirit, celebrating the shared identity of Creole communities worldwide.

    Oliver J. Seraphin, a key architect of the festival, reflects on its legacy: ‘The World Creole Festival was born from a shared vision — to honor the richness of Creole culture and position Dominica as its global stage. Its legacy belongs to the people, artists, and visionaries who continue to nurture its spirit.’

  • $3 Million Boost for Greener, Deforestation-Free Farming

    $3 Million Boost for Greener, Deforestation-Free Farming

    Belize has been awarded a significant BZD $3 million grant from the Italian government, aimed at promoting sustainable and deforestation-free agricultural practices. This funding, provided by the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, is designed to support initiatives that encourage environmentally friendly farming methods, thereby protecting Belize’s forests and natural ecosystems. Additionally, the grant seeks to enhance market access for local producers, connecting them with both national and international markets that prioritize eco-friendly and responsibly sourced products. The grant will bolster the Sustainable and Inclusive Belize Program, which is already supported by the Inter-American Development Bank. This collaborative effort is expected to advance sustainable agriculture, create new opportunities for small businesses, and alleviate the strain on forested regions. The Government of Belize emphasizes that the initiative aims to make agriculture more environmentally sustainable and economically viable, enabling farmers to thrive without resorting to deforestation and expanding market opportunities for local produce. However, as the project commences, questions remain regarding the management of the funds and whether small-scale farmers will receive equitable benefits or if larger agribusinesses will dominate the allocation.

  • STATEMENT: Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) on the passing of Mr. Julius Timothy

    STATEMENT: Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) on the passing of Mr. Julius Timothy

    The Commonwealth of Dominica is in mourning following the passing of Julius Timothy, a revered public servant, on October 19, 2025. Timothy, a multifaceted leader, dedicated his life to the betterment of Dominica through his contributions in business, politics, and governance. As the Managing Director of AC Shillingford and Company Limited, a prominent Roseau-based business, Timothy played a pivotal role in the island’s economic landscape. His political career was equally distinguished, serving as the Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau North Constituency from 1995 to 2014. During this period, he held the position of Minister of Finance, Industry, and Planning under the United Workers Party (UWP) administration from 1995 to 2000. In 2005, Timothy joined the Dominica Labour Party and was appointed as a Minister in the Roosevelt Skerrit-led administration, a role he held until 2014. Beyond politics, Timothy was a staunch advocate for industry and commerce, serving as President of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC) and contributing to various statutory boards and committees, including the Credit Union Movement. A passionate sportsman, Timothy also made significant contributions to the development of sports on the island. The Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) has expressed its deepest condolences to Timothy’s family, friends, the staff of AC Shillingford and Company Limited, the people of the Roseau North Constituency, and the entire nation of Dominica. The DFP remembers Timothy as a selfless leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

  • Police Officer Named in Budna Abduction Now on Full-Pay Suspension

    Police Officer Named in Budna Abduction Now on Full-Pay Suspension

    Police Constable Barrington Mai (Flowers), who is under investigation for allegedly aiding in the abduction of Joseph Budna in Orange Walk Town, Belize, has been shifted from interdiction to full-pay suspension. Initially interdicted on September 8, 2025, Mai was placed on half-salary and stripped of his police powers pending the investigation. However, on October 3, 2025, Acting Commissioner of Police Bartholomew Jones issued a new order, suspending Mai from active duty but restoring his full salary and returning the withheld half-salary from September 12 to October 3. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, remains under investigation, and Mai has consistently denied the allegations, asserting his innocence. Jones emphasized that if the investigation finds Mai guilty of misconduct, he will face a disciplinary tribunal.

  • US Guided-Missile Destroyer to Dock in Port of Spain

    US Guided-Missile Destroyer to Dock in Port of Spain

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has announced that the USS Gravely, a United States Navy guided-missile destroyer, will dock in Port of Spain for a five-day visit starting October 26, 2025. The vessel, carrying around 300 sailors, will engage in joint training exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF). The operations will focus on infantry tactics, maintenance protocols, and advanced medical capabilities, facilitated by members of the 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit. This visit highlights the US commitment to bolstering regional security and defense cooperation in the Caribbean. To accommodate the warship, several berths at the port will be temporarily closed, with shipping operators advised to adjust their schedules. The deployment aligns with heightened US security activities in the region, including recent security alerts issued to US citizens in Trinidad and Tobago. Despite geopolitical tensions, Trinidad and Tobago has expressed support for US-led initiatives to combat transnational crimes such as narcotics and human trafficking.

  • Repeat offender sentenced to prison

    Repeat offender sentenced to prison

    In a significant ruling by the St. Christopher Circuit Court, 25-year-old Alexis Liddie has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for a series of criminal offences. The decision, handed down by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley KC on October 21, 2025, underscores the severe consequences of repeated criminal behaviour. Liddie’s sentence includes time for multiple crimes, notably two counts of sacrilege at the Antioch Baptist Church and a breaking and entering incident at Indigo Yachts.

  • Stuart joins regional call to keep Caribbean a ‘Zone of Peace’

    Stuart joins regional call to keep Caribbean a ‘Zone of Peace’

    Former Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, alongside ten other former CARICOM leaders, has issued a compelling call for the Caribbean to remain a ‘Zone of Peace.’ This declaration comes in response to escalating militarization in regional waters and the looming threat of foreign interference. The joint statement, titled *Our Caribbean Space: A Zone of Peace on Land, Sea and Airspace Where the Rule of Law Prevails*, expresses deep concern over the increasing presence of nuclear vessels and military aircraft in the Caribbean archipelago. The leaders urged all parties to de-escalate military activities to safeguard regional peace, stability, and development, warning against the risk of being drawn into conflicts not of their making. The declaration has garnered support from prominent figures, including Trinidad and Tobago’s former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who emphasized the importance of upholding the principles that have historically guided Caribbean diplomacy. The signatories, including former leaders from Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Guyana, Grenada, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, and Belize, collectively reaffirmed CARICOM’s commitment to resolving disputes through negotiation and dialogue, rather than military force. The statement also highlighted the vulnerability of small island states to external pressures, such as drug and arms trafficking, which threaten their sovereignty and security. The declaration underscores the Caribbean’s shared history and common interests, asserting that preserving the region as a Zone of Peace is an essential imperative. This call for unity comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, including the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute and increased foreign naval activity in the Caribbean Sea. Critics have also raised concerns over Trinidad and Tobago’s current foreign policy, which they argue deviates from CARICOM’s long-standing principles of neutrality and sovereignty. The leaders concluded with a resolute message: ‘Our shared history and common interests demand oneness. We have gone too far to turn back now.’

  • Acting chief on this weekend’s festivities: No nonsense, no cannabis in public spaces

    Acting chief on this weekend’s festivities: No nonsense, no cannabis in public spaces

    Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette has issued a stern warning to attendees of the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) in Dominica, emphasizing that public smoking of cannabis will not be tolerated. The festival, known for its vibrant rhythms and cultural celebrations, is set to take place from October 24 to October 26 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, starting at 8:00 PM each night.

    Corbette, in a recent press release, highlighted the police force’s annual mandate to ensure the safety and order of all festival activities. He assured the public of an increased police presence throughout the city, particularly around the event venue. ‘You will see more officers throughout the city,’ he stated. ‘We won’t tolerate any nonsense at the festival. If you break the law, it’s very likely you’ll find yourself arrested and detained until the end of the events.’

    The acting chief also reminded attendees that while individuals are permitted to carry up to 28 grams of cannabis, smoking it in public remains illegal. ‘In Dominica, you have the privilege to smoke in the privacy of your home, but not in public spaces,’ he explained. ‘Officers will approach you and deal with you according to the law if you insist on smoking in public.’

    Additionally, Corbette called for public cooperation, especially given the expected traffic congestion during the festival. He urged attendees to enjoy the event in a ‘clean, peaceful atmosphere,’ emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and safety for all participants.

  • Women Farmers Association receives vital irrigation equipment from Taiwan Technical Mission

    Women Farmers Association receives vital irrigation equipment from Taiwan Technical Mission

    The Ladelin (Delcer) Women Farmers Association in Choiseul, Saint Lucia, has received a transformative donation of advanced irrigation equipment from the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM). This initiative, aimed at addressing persistent water scarcity issues, was officially handed over during a ceremony at the Delcer R.C. Combined School on October 17, 2025. The donation includes a state-of-the-art blended irrigation system featuring drip lines and sprinklers, designed to ensure a reliable water supply for crop cultivation.

  • SVG can now export fresh produce to UK, EU via AIA

    SVG can now export fresh produce to UK, EU via AIA

    Argyle International Airport (AIA) has officially attained RA3 certification in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kingstown, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities. RA3, which stands for Regulated Agent – Third Country, is a designation under UK aviation security regulations that allows AIA to function as a regulated agent for cargo destined for the United Kingdom and the European Union. This certification eliminates the need for transhipment or additional screening at intermediary airports, enabling direct exports of fresh produce, flowers, and agricultural goods to the UK. Geoffrey Patton, the resident British commissioner, emphasized the transformative impact this will have on trade between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the UK, opening new pathways for economic collaboration. Josette Greaves, CEO of AIA, highlighted that the certification underscores the airport’s compliance with stringent UK and EU aviation security standards for cargo screening, handling, and transportation. She expressed gratitude to Brian Abbott of World AVSEC, an independent validator of Vincentian heritage, for his instrumental role in securing the certification. Greaves also urged AIA staff, passengers, and stakeholders to maintain high security standards, emphasizing that the airport’s rigorous screening protocols are designed to ensure safety while facilitating milestones like the RA3 certification. A press release from AIA reiterated that these measures are not intended to inconvenience travelers or businesses but to uphold security and enable seamless trade operations.