Barbados has formally transferred the presidency of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Quadrennial to Switzerland, marking a significant transition in global trade leadership. This handover follows Barbados’ historic role as the first small island developing state to host the UNCTAD 15 ministerial conference four years ago during the pandemic. The 16th UNCTAD ministerial conference, themed ‘Shaping the Future: Driving Economic Transformation for Equitable, Inclusive and Sustainable Development,’ is set to convene from October 20 to 23 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UNCTAD, a UN agency dedicated to integrating developing nations into the global economy through sustainable trade practices, continues to play a pivotal role in addressing global economic challenges. Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados delivered a powerful opening statement via video, emphasizing the urgent need to reinforce multilateralism amidst global instability. She warned that the international order is at risk of unraveling due to shifting geopolitical dynamics and questioned values such as gender equality and diversity. Mottley called for a reinvention of multilateralism, stressing that multipolarity without agreed rules could hinder sustainable growth and peace. Barbados’ delegation, led by Minister Sandra Husbands, actively participated in key discussions, including the Group of 77 and small island developing states meetings. Ambassador Matthew Wilson, elected as a vice chair of the conference, contributed to sessions on trade, productive capacities, and youth engagement. Additionally, Barbados leveraged the occasion to strengthen ties with its diaspora in Switzerland and Caribbean ambassadors through a cultural event promoting ‘We Gatherin 2025.’
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Sayers, Limery: Wa ek wenn chimen (King and queen of the road)
The 2025 Kwéyòl 5K Run, powered by Lucozade, concluded with Jason Sayers and Laura-Lynn Limery claiming top honors in this celebrated road running event. Organized by the Saint Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA), the third edition of the race saw over 75 participants braving overcast skies on October 19. The flat course stretched from Reduit to Pigeon Point, attracting runners aged five to 53, including two athletes from Martinique. Despite adverse weather conditions, the event showcased remarkable community spirit and athletic excellence. Sayers, representing 758 Adventurers, finished first with a time of 17:15.83, while Limery of Road Busters led the women’s category at 21:14.00. The event also highlighted inclusivity, with five-year-old Adam Ramdatt completing the race with ease. SLAA President Dora Henry praised the event’s execution and emphasized its role in promoting Creole culture and healthy living. Plans for an expanded 2026 edition are already in motion, reflecting the growing popularity of road running in Saint Lucia.
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Missing Vessel “Endurance 2” Reported Lost After Leaving Jolly Harbour
Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have initiated a large-scale search operation for the fishing vessel ‘Endurance 2,’ which went missing on Tuesday afternoon after departing from Mosquito Cove, Jolly Harbour. The vessel, an 18-foot white fibre-reinforced plastic pirogue powered by a single Yamaha 40-horsepower two-stroke outboard engine, is registered as V2-1597 JH. Chief Fisheries Officer Ian Horsford has confirmed that the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard is spearheading the search efforts. In a public appeal, Horsford urged all fishers and mariners to assist in locating the missing vessel. Individuals with any information are encouraged to contact the authorities at (268) 462-3206, (268) 462-2841, or (268) 462-2843, or to report to the nearest police station. The community has been mobilized to aid in the search, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
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Culture Minister encourages public to eat more local foods
In a recent address at the ‘Market Day with a Difference’ event in Portsmouth, Dominica’s Minister for Culture, Gretta Roberts, passionately urged the public to embrace locally grown produce. The event, which celebrates and promotes indigenous products, serves as a platform to reinforce national pride in Dominican agriculture and culinary heritage. Roberts emphasized the importance of supporting local farmers and vendors, who play a pivotal role in ensuring a steady supply of safe and nutritious food across the island. She highlighted the dual benefits of such practices: combating non-communicable diseases and enhancing community health outcomes. ‘By eating what we grow and growing what we eat, we can collectively address health challenges and foster a sustainable future,’ she stated. Roberts also called on existing farmers to diversify their crops and encouraged the younger generation to consider agriculture as a viable and rewarding investment. The annual event, she noted, continues to inspire both producers and consumers to prioritize local goods, strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector and cultural identity.
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Golf Saint Lucia celebrates 2025 ECGA Amateur Golf Champions
Team Saint Lucia has emerged victorious as the 2025 ECGA Amateur Gross Golf Champions, marking a significant milestone for Golf Saint Lucia Inc. The official celebration, held on October 16 at the Sandals Golf and Country Club, honored the team’s remarkable achievement. The tournament, hosted at the Royal St Kitts Golf Club in St Kitts and Nevis, featured diverse categories, including men’s, seniors, super seniors, and ladies’ divisions. Notably, the Saint Lucian ladies’ team secured a win in their category, with Lisa Garner clinching the individual title. Yadhu Urs, a Saint Lucian residing in the United States, dominated the men’s individual tournament with impressive scores of 72 and 69. Coach Tim Mangal, in an interview with sports commentator Dr. Joseph Reds Perreira, highlighted the team’s meticulous preparation, strategic planning, and adaptability as key factors behind their success. Training commenced in August, building on Saint Lucia’s previous victories in 2003 and 2023. Mangal emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration, with players supporting each other to refine their skills. Despite challenges such as slower greens, the team’s resilience and preparation ensured their triumph. Looking ahead, Mangal expressed a commitment to promoting golf in Saint Lucia, particularly among the youth, aiming to expand participation and elevate the sport’s competitiveness.
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UWI Five Islands Students Launch Campus Newsletter to Amplify Student Voices
The Frigate Post, a dynamic publication at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC), has become a cornerstone of campus life, celebrating student creativity, achievements, and community spirit. Conceived as a platform to foster connection and storytelling, the publication aims to reflect the diverse talents and experiences of its student body.
‘Our mission was straightforward: to unite the campus through compelling narratives while showcasing the ingenuity and accomplishments of our students,’ explained the editorial committee. ‘We envisioned a space that was both entertaining and enlightening, where every student could find a piece of their own journey.’
Each edition of The Frigate Post is meticulously crafted by a dedicated team of student volunteers who invest countless hours to ensure the content is accurate, high-quality, and innovative. Beyond its serious features, the publication also includes lighthearted elements such as the ‘Joke of the Day,’ capturing the lively and spirited atmosphere of UWI FIC.
‘We take immense pride in the progress we’ve made and are eager to continue evolving,’ the committee shared. ‘Every issue is a snapshot of our campus’s unique story, and we’re thrilled to see where the future takes us.’
The Frigate Post is now accessible online and actively encourages submissions from all UWI FIC students, inviting them to contribute their voices and perspectives to this growing campus legacy.
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PM Browne: Tenders Board Members to Be Rotated for Accountability
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has unveiled plans to implement a rotation system for members of the Tenders Board and other key public offices as part of a broader strategy to enhance governance and prevent complacency. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne emphasized the need for balance and accountability in oversight roles. He clarified that the initiative is not a response to any wrongdoing but a proactive measure to ensure no individual becomes too entrenched in their position. ‘The Tenders Board, for example, I’m going to rotate the people serving the Tenders Board too. They must not get comfortable,’ Browne stated. He extended this policy to senior officials, including Diane Black-Layne at the Department of Environment, and even within his own Cabinet, to foster growth and development among other capable individuals. This move aligns with Browne’s ‘national reset’ initiative, launched following a government vehicle procurement controversy. The reset encompasses reforms in the Treasury, Public Works Department, and procurement systems to bolster transparency and public trust. Browne reiterated his commitment to creating a culture of renewal and balance in leadership roles, asserting, ‘What I want to ensure is that this government, this country, is governed better.’
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Senator Lamin Newton Supports Irene B. Williams Students Ahead of Panorama
Senator Lamin Newton has stepped forward to support students from the Irene B. Williams Secondary School by funding their uniforms for the upcoming Schools Panorama competition. In a heartfelt statement, Newton emphasized his unwavering dedication to youth development, stating that he was “called upon to assist” and acted “without hesitation.” He highlighted the importance of nurturing young minds, saying, “We must always be willing to assist our youth, inspire them, and provide the necessary guidance required to make them model citizens.” Newton also extended his best wishes to the students, invoking “God’s continued guidance” for their success in the competition. The annual Panorama event, a celebrated platform for young steelpan musicians across Antigua and Barbuda, is set to bring together talent from various schools, fostering cultural expression and community spirit.
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Divali ver van huis: Licht en hoop in een vreemde stad
This Diwali, I found myself thousands of miles away from home, celebrating alone in Beijing. Despite the physical distance, the warmth of the festival and the connections with friends and colleagues from Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka made the day special. Although my plans for the festival were disrupted by a busy schedule, I embraced the solitude and reflected on the lives of those who face unimaginable hardships. Sending Diwali blessings to friends like Tanzil, Vignesh, Mahdi, Danish, and Sumudu, I hoped for brighter days ahead for them. The festival fell a day earlier in Beijing due to the time difference, but the spirit of Diwali transcended borders. My colleague Marlon and I ventured out to explore the city, braving the cold autumn weather. We indulged in shopping for warm clothes and discovered affordable deals in the bustling malls. In the afternoon, we opted for a traditional Chinese massage, choosing to cycle through Beijing’s streets. The city, once known as the ‘bicycle capital of the world,’ has seen a resurgence in cycling culture, driven by sustainability and efforts to reduce pollution. Despite the chaotic traffic, we navigated the streets with ease, using shared bikes unlocked via a mobile app. A mishap with my phone mid-ride reminded me of its indispensability in daily life here. After the massage, we cycled back through the chilly evening, marveling at the city’s vibrant lights. As the thousands of lights of Beijing continued to shine, I realized that light and hope are universal, even when far from home.
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Mobility boost: Govt to expand wheelchair-accessible transport fleet
Barbados is taking significant strides to improve transportation accessibility for its citizens with disabilities. The government has announced plans to expand its fleet of wheelchair-accessible buses, with the first two vehicles expected to arrive by the end of 2025. This initiative, revealed by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Mark Franklin, during the Caribbean Disability Conference, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the mobility challenges faced by disabled individuals. Franklin emphasized that transportation remains a critical priority, particularly for schoolchildren and others who rely on specialized services. The National Disabilities Unit (NDU), which currently operates five vehicles—only two of which are fully wheelchair-accessible—will receive new buses equipped with durable lifts designed for daily use. Wayne Nurse, Director of the NDU, confirmed that the new vehicles will accommodate eight to 12 passengers, including wheelchair users, and will be capable of navigating smaller residential areas. The initiative is part of the government’s broader 2023–2030 National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and aligns with recent rights-based legislation aimed at fostering inclusion and accessibility. Franklin highlighted that breaking barriers requires more than policy—it demands empathy, tangible support, and a commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of ability, have equal opportunities to participate in society.