On October 18, 2025, Georges Wilbert Franck, Haiti’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, attended an open house event hosted by the National Old Age Insurance Office (ONA) as part of the institution’s 60th anniversary celebrations. The event, themed ‘ONA Family Day: Sharing and Discovery,’ aimed to foster stronger connections between the ONA, its policyholders, and the broader community. Minister Franck highlighted the ONA’s pivotal role in Haiti’s social security system, particularly in safeguarding workers’ welfare. He commended ONA Director General Ronald Bazile and his team for organizing an event that showcased the talents and potential of the institution’s employees in fields such as craftsmanship, art, and cuisine. Franck emphasized that such initiatives are vital for enhancing public understanding of the ONA’s operations and services, thereby building a positive image of the institution. Ronald Bazile, in his address, noted that the event was a precursor to the ONA’s 60th anniversary celebrations, designed to highlight the institution’s executives, departments, and services. He also underscored the event’s role in promoting Haitian culture through exhibitions, discussions, and other activities. Additionally, the ONA unveiled the ‘ONA Education Kredi Lekòl’ program, an innovative initiative offering credit facilities to insured parents to help cover their children’s educational expenses, further supporting Haitian families.
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There have already been three rock slides on the Jarabacoa highway.
In the past month, the Federico Basilis Highway, a critical route connecting La Vega and Jarabacoa, has experienced at least three significant landslides and rock falls. This section of the highway is currently undergoing a three-year reconstruction project, but the recurring incidents have disrupted traffic and raised safety concerns among residents and officials. The most recent landslide occurred last Thursday, temporarily halting traffic. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by the Buena Vista Fire Department, which responded to the scene. By Friday morning, heavy machinery was deployed to clear debris and restore normalcy. This marks the third such incident in just over a month. On September 13, a massive rockfall crushed the front of a passing vehicle, though the passengers escaped unharmed. The construction company promptly compensated the affected individuals. Another landslide on September 30 caused no human or material losses. Local authorities, including the Federation of Neighborhood Associations, the mayors of Buena Vista and Jarabacoa, and the Fire Department, are advocating for enhanced safety measures, particularly improved signage. Joselito Abreu, Mayor of Jarabacoa, emphasized the construction company’s responsibility to ensure pedestrian safety and invest in proper signage. Leomaris Puntiel, President of the Federation of Neighborhood Associations, highlighted the distress among residents who rely on this sole route for commuting and accessing La Vega. Additionally, the landslides have negatively impacted tourism in Jarabacoa, as travelers avoid the area due to safety risks.
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Security : Presentation and authentication measures of the biometric National Identification Card
In a significant move to bolster regional security and combat cybercrime and transnational crime, Haiti’s National Identification Office (ONI), in collaboration with the Organization of American States (OAS), hosted a high-level discussion and information session this week at the Oasis Hotel. The event, attended by members of the diplomatic and consular corps accredited to Haiti, focused on the technical features and authentication process of the new Unique National Identification Card (CINU).
Led by Reynold Guerrier, Director General of the ONI, the session aimed to enhance the ability of consular missions to detect fraudulent identity documents, which are frequently submitted during visa applications or administrative procedures at foreign offices. The initiative is particularly critical for countries heavily impacted by Haitian migration, including Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the United States, the Bahamas, and Spain. Representatives from the People’s Republic of China and Japan, a major institutional supporter of the ONI, also participated.
During the session, Guerrier detailed the advanced security features of the biometric National Identity Card (NIC), which includes an electronic chip storing fingerprints, facial recognition data, and iris scans. The card also incorporates a QR code and a 2D barcode, making it highly resistant to forgery. Constructed from durable polycarbonate, the card is valid for 10 years. A live demonstration enabled diplomats to differentiate between genuine and counterfeit documents, while technical materials were distributed to aid their identification and verification processes.
This initiative underscores Haiti’s commitment to modernizing its identification system and strengthening international cooperation in the fight against identity fraud and transnational crime.
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VIDEO: PM says the state will fund plastic surgery abroad for woman mauled by Pit Bull
In a heartening display of solidarity, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that the government will cover all medical and surgical expenses for 27-year-old Shabo Nedwell, who suffered severe injuries in a pit bull attack last week. The incident occurred in Skerrit’s Pasture, where Nedwell was mauled by two dogs owned by her aunt, Stacy Simon. Despite her injuries, Nedwell demonstrated remarkable resilience by attending her University of the West Indies Five Islands graduation ceremony in a wheelchair just days after the attack. Prime Minister Browne praised her courage and assured that the state would also fund any necessary overseas treatment. This tragic event has reignited public debate on the need for stricter regulations on dangerous dog ownership and improved animal-control measures. The government’s swift response underscores its commitment to supporting citizens in times of crisis, while the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by inadequately managed pets.
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VIDEO: PM says UWI Valedictorian Is a “Natural Leader,” Unsure of His Political Aspirations but Pledges Support
PM says UWI Valedictorian Is a “Natural Leader,” Unsure of His Political Aspirations but Pledges Support
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GHFS viert 20-jarig bestaan met duurzame workshops
The Green Heritage Fund Suriname (GHFS) is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary from October 22 to 24, 2025, with a series of workshops focused on sustainability, nature conservation, and collaboration. Founded in 2005 by Monique Pool, GHFS has evolved from a volunteer-driven initiative into a robust environmental organization with paid staff and an extensive network of partners. Over the years, the organization has spearheaded projects in wildlife rehabilitation, marine biodiversity, education, climate awareness, and community development, fostering connections between animals, science, government, and citizens.
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LISTEN: MP makes open disclosures about players in ongoing vehicle investigation
Antigua’s most visited news platform is now offering businesses an opportunity to elevate their digital presence through fully customizable and flexible marketing packages. Designed to cater to diverse advertising needs, these packages provide a unique chance for brands to connect with a wide audience in the region. The platform emphasizes its ability to adapt to specific marketing goals, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement for advertisers. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected] to explore the available options and take advantage of this innovative advertising opportunity. This initiative highlights the platform’s commitment to supporting local and international businesses in achieving their marketing objectives.
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Flags in front of the National Congress do not fly at half-mast despite national mourning
In the wake of the passing of esteemed politician Vicente Sánchez Baret, President Luis Abinader declared this Saturday a day of official mourning. However, a notable deviation from protocol has sparked controversy: the flags at the Centro de los Héroes fountain were not lowered to half-mast, as mandated by Decree 608-25. This decree explicitly requires the National Flag to be flown at half-mast on military and public buildings across the nation during the mourning period. The oversight occurred as the coffin of the late senator was being transported from the National Congress, where President Abinader and congressional members paid their respects. The flags surrounding the fountain, a symbolic site in front of the National Congress, remained fully raised, directly contravening the executive order. Vicente Sánchez Baret, who served as senator for the Sánchez Ramírez province during three separate terms (1986-1990, 1994-1998, and 1998-2002), was widely revered for his unwavering commitment to honesty, transparency, democracy, and social justice. His legacy is particularly cherished in his home province, where he championed national development and equitable progress. Survived by his wife, Yadira Henríquez, former director of the Presidency’s Social Plan, and their three children—Flory, Yessika, and Vicente Sánchez Henríquez, the current representative for District 1 of the National District—Sánchez Baret’s contributions to public service remain a beacon of integrity and dedication.
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FLASH : Do not consume the 100% Haitian seasoning mix «Pam Pi Gou»
The Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) has issued a public health warning urging consumers to avoid the 100% Haitian seasoning mix ‘PAM PI GOU.’ The product, which was sold in Quebec until October 17, 2025, was not prepared or packaged in a manner that ensures its safety, potentially fostering the growth of the dangerous bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria can produce a toxin that leads to severe health complications, including facial paralysis, vision and speech issues, and even death in extreme cases. The seasoning mix was sold in Mason-type glass jars and stored refrigerated, with its label prominently displaying the name ‘PAM PI GOU.’ The manufacturer has initiated a recall and collaborated with MAPAQ to issue this precautionary alert. Consumers in possession of the product are advised not to consume it and to either return it to the point of purchase or dispose of it immediately. Although no cases of illness linked to the product have been reported to date, the potential risks underscore the importance of this warning. MAPAQ emphasizes that even if the product appears normal and lacks any signs of spoilage or unusual odor, it could still be contaminated. This alert serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety standards and the need for vigilance in food consumption.
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Bank accounts important for “next phase” of wealth transfer- Ali
The Guyana government, under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, is intensifying efforts to encourage citizens to open bank accounts as a critical step in the nation’s wealth transfer strategy. Speaking at a reception hosted by the Canada Guyana Chamber of Commerce, President Ali emphasized the importance of integrating bank accounts with the new Electronic Identification Card (eID) system. This initiative aims to streamline government services, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and enhance transparency. President Ali clarified that the rollout of the eID card is not directly tied to the disbursement of upcoming cash grants, which he had previously hinted at during the 2025 election campaign. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the President’s commitment to fulfilling these promises. To facilitate this transition, the government and banking sector have simplified the criteria for opening personal, small business, and corporate accounts, eliminating previously burdensome requirements. The overarching goal is to ensure every Guyanese citizen has access to a bank account, paving the way for a more efficient and transparent financial system.