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  • Essentiële bijdrage vrouwen in landbouw blijft onderbelicht

    Essentiële bijdrage vrouwen in landbouw blijft onderbelicht

    In Suriname’s agricultural sector, women have historically formed the backbone of food production and rural economies while receiving minimal recognition for their substantial contributions. Despite their pervasive involvement across the entire agricultural value chain—from crop cultivation and livestock rearing to aquaculture, food processing, and entrepreneurial ventures—female farmers continue to face systemic marginalization in public discourse and policy-making arenas.

    These women significantly enhance national food security, bolster rural livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience through their diverse roles. Particularly in rural communities, female-led agricultural activities are intrinsically linked to household income stability and overall community welfare. Beyond economic contributions, women also bear critical responsibilities in household nutrition and family well-being.

    However, structural barriers persistently hinder women’s full participation and productivity. Challenges including limited access to land ownership, financial resources, modern technologies, specialized training, and market opportunities constrain their potential and impede sector-wide innovation. Addressing these obstacles is not merely a gender equality issue but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and long-term food security.

    In a transformative step toward recognition and empowerment, Suriname will host the Women in Agriculture Fair on International Women’s Day, March 8th. This landmark event—organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries with support from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and funding from the Inter-American Development Bank—will provide a platform for female farmers, processors, entrepreneurs, and researchers to showcase their products, services, and innovations.

    The fair will facilitate crucial connections between women producers and consumers, potential partners, and policy makers, thereby enhancing visibility and creating new opportunities. By celebrating women’s achievements and fostering collaborative networks, Suriname aims to strengthen its agricultural sector while building a more inclusive and resilient future for generations to come.

  • Winners in Massy Wheels for Deals competition announced

    Winners in Massy Wheels for Deals competition announced

    Massy Stores culminated its customer appreciation initiative with a ceremonial prize distribution on Saturday at its Warrens, St. Michael location. The event marked the conclusion of the ‘Win Wheels for Deals’ promotion, which ran from November through January to honor shopper loyalty.

    Kim Stoute emerged as the grand prize recipient, securing a 2025 Proton X90 mild hybrid SUV through the retailer’s partnership with ANSA Motors. The seven-seater vehicle addresses practical transportation needs while incorporating hybrid technology. In secondary honors, Kelly Nicholls received an entertainment package from Flow, featuring a Samsung S24 Ultra smartphone and television. Peter Yearwood completed the top winners by earning a Whirlpool-sponsored kitchen appliance bundle.

    Recipients conveyed profound appreciation for their awards, with Stoute characterizing her win as emotionally significant. She emphasized the vehicle’s transformative impact on her family’s mobility, particularly noting the spacious interior that accommodates their three-member household with additional seating capacity.

    The promotion mechanics automatically enrolled customers upon achieving a $50 minimum purchase during the campaign period. Massy Stores representatives framed the initiative as component of their broader corporate strategy to acknowledge and reciprocate continued consumer patronage through experiential rewards programs.

  • PM Browne condemns Middle East escalation and urges restraint amid Iran missile attacks

    PM Browne condemns Middle East escalation and urges restraint amid Iran missile attacks

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a stern condemnation of recent military escalations in the Middle East, expressing profound concern over Iran’s reported missile strikes against the United Arab Emirates and other sovereign nations in the Gulf region. Prime Minister Hon. Gaston A. Browne characterized these developments as a dangerous deterioration of regional stability that threatens international peace.

    In an official statement, the Caribbean nation denounced attacks targeting states not directly involved in existing conflicts as serious violations of international law. The government emphasized that such actions undermine territorial integrity and exacerbate instability in an already volatile region.

    Antigua and Barbuda aligned with international consensus urging Iranian leadership to pursue good-faith negotiations regarding regional security concerns. The statement emphasized that diplomatic engagement remains the only viable path to reduce tensions and restore stability, rather than military confrontation.

    The administration reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty of all nations and the foundational principles of the United Nations Charter. At this critical juncture, Antigua and Barbuda joined global calls for maximum restraint from all parties involved and immediate de-escalation of hostilities.

    The government expressed particular concern about the risks to civilian populations from expanding cross-border military operations. Prime Minister Browne’s administration endorsed the United Nations Secretary-General’s appeal for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration and uphold international law.

    Concluding the statement, Antigua and Barbuda expressed solidarity with affected populations across the region and voiced hope that dialogue and diplomacy would ultimately prevail over armed conflict.

  • 75 People From Around the World Became Belizean Citizens

    75 People From Around the World Became Belizean Citizens

    In a significant national event on Thursday, Belize formally embraced 75 individuals from diverse global backgrounds as its newest citizens. The ceremony, attended by government dignitaries, relatives, and community members, marked the culmination of these candidates’ journeys to full Belizean nationality through the traditional Oath of Allegiance.

    The newly sworn citizens represent a remarkable geographic diversity, with origins spanning Honduras, El Salvador, Germany, the United States, Jamaica, Bolivia, Ukraine, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Cuba, Mexico, Canada, and Venezuela. This multicultural gathering underscores Belize’s continuing appeal as a destination for those seeking new beginnings.

    Minister of Immigration Kareem Musa delivered the keynote address, framing the occasion within Belize’s historical context as a nation shaped by migration patterns. “Citizenship affirms that belonging to Belize is defined by participation, responsibility, and contribution,” Minister Musa stated, emphasizing that national identity extends beyond mere legal status.

    The Minister highlighted that many of the new citizens have already established themselves as valuable contributors to Belizean society across multiple sectors including agricultural development, tourism infrastructure, construction projects, educational institutions, healthcare services, small business enterprises, and community organizations.

    Musa further articulated Belize’s unique perspective on migration, noting that within the country’s 8,867 square miles, many choose to “remain, to settle, and to build a life grounded in community rather than transit”—a philosophy that distinguishes Belize’s approach to integration.

    Following the ministerial address, the Supreme Court formally administered the Oath of Allegiance, legally conferring citizenship upon all 75 candidates. The ceremony concluded with Minister Musa’s heartfelt declaration: “Welcome home, my fellow Belizeans,” signaling their official incorporation into the national family.

  • WATCH: KSAMC urges public to adhere to streamlined feeding programme

    WATCH: KSAMC urges public to adhere to streamlined feeding programme

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Municipal authorities in Kingston are making a concerted appeal to citizens and philanthropic organizations to align with their structured assistance program for homeless individuals, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated strategy over fragmented charitable efforts.

    The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) recently demonstrated its commitment to vulnerable populations through a special Jamaica Day celebration at the Denham Town Golden Age Home. The event brought together over 80 residents from four different shelters for a day of recreational activities, entertainment, and authentic Jamaican culinary experiences.

    Mayor Andrew Swaby personally participated alongside KSAMC staff, serving meals and engaging with attendees. The gathering represented residents from multiple facilities including the Desmond Mackenzie Transitional Centre, the Church Street temporary shelter (also known as Marie Atkins Night Shelter), and the host location itself.

    According to Acting Inspector Donna Gay Braidy of KSAMC’s Poor Relief Department, an additional twenty homebound residents received meals despite being unable to attend the festivities. The culinary experience featured traditional Jamaican dishes including ackee and saltfish, callaloo, festival, jerk chicken, and hot chocolate tea, providing nostalgic culinary connections to Jamaican heritage.

    The celebration included an interactive session led by Justice of the Peace Patricia Reid, where residents shared personal narratives and reflected on Jamaica’s journey to independence. Many attendees had lived through the independence era and expressed appreciation for both the historical significance and community spirit fostered by the event.

    Braidy highlighted that current shelter occupancy remains at full capacity, noting that some residents were absent from the celebration due to employment or educational commitments. She revealed several success stories, including residents who recently completed vocational certifications through the HEART program, gained work experience at local hotels, and enrolled in tertiary institutions.

    Amid these positive developments, Braidy emphasized the critical need for coordinated charitable efforts. She specifically urged public cooperation with KSAMC’s structured feeding program rather than independent street distributions, noting that uncoordinated efforts often lead to resource duplication and operational inefficiency.

    The municipal corporation welcomes partnerships at its 65 Hanover Street location, assuring potential contributors that hands-on participation remains possible within the organized framework. Braidy concluded with a humanitarian appeal for compassionate treatment of homeless individuals, reminding the public that they represent brothers and sisters who have encountered difficult circumstances deserving of dignity and respect.

  • Black River renaissance underway as gov’t commits to smart, climate-resilient redevelopment

    Black River renaissance underway as gov’t commits to smart, climate-resilient redevelopment

    The Jamaican Government has unveiled comprehensive plans for a transformative ‘Black River renaissance,’ committing to rebuild the historic town with enhanced climate resilience and commercial vitality following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. Delano Seiveright, State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, announced the initiative during the opening of Level 8 Dining and Gaming Lounge, emphasizing that reconstruction efforts would surpass mere restoration.

    Minister Seiveright highlighted Black River’s historical significance as Jamaica’s pioneer in modern utilities—receiving the island’s first piped water system, electricity connection in 1893, telephone service in 1883, and inaugural motorcar in 1903. This legacy, he stated, motivates the administration’s commitment to structured redevelopment integrating commerce, tourism, and fortified agri-fisheries sectors.

    Four months after the Category 5 hurricane, approximately 98% of Jamaica Public Service customers have regained electricity—a achievement Seiveright contrasted favorably against Puerto Rico’s year-long restoration after Hurricane Maria. He credited Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Energy Minister Daryl Vaz for exceptional national coordination.

    The redevelopment vision extends beyond Black River to encompass southwestern Jamaica’s entire corridor. Key infrastructure projects include:
    – $2.9 million upgrades to Treasure Beach aerodrome for turboprop and private jet accessibility
    – Extension of South Coast Highway from Williamsfield to Hodges
    – Near-completion of Montego Bay Perimeter Road
    – Ongoing Long Hill Bypass project reducing travel time to southwestern regions
    – Proposed Negril International Airport accommodating Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft

    Seiveright praised private sector resilience, specifically acknowledging the Cole family’s continued investment through Cole’s Seafood and More Limited despite hurricane challenges. Their maintained international certifications and export operations in conch and lobster symbolize commercial reactivation.

    The minister concluded by affirming the government’s dual focus on physical infrastructure and livelihood restoration, promising continued rapid progress toward a reimagined southwestern corridor that honors Black River’s legacy while embracing sustainable development.

  • Realtors welcome gov’t water infrastructure upgrades to boost real estate development

    Realtors welcome gov’t water infrastructure upgrades to boost real estate development

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s real estate sector has enthusiastically endorsed the government’s ambitious water infrastructure modernization plan, recognizing it as a transformative catalyst for property development. The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ) formally announced its support following detailed presentations by Minister of Water and Climate Change Matthew Samuda during the association’s leadership breakfast at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on February 26.

    The event, which simultaneously launched RAJ’s 60th anniversary celebrations, revealed comprehensive details of the government’s Water Vision 2030 initiative. Central to this strategy are three critical infrastructure projects: construction of a new Hermitage Dam in St. Andrew, significant expansion of the Mona Reservoir’s capacity, and comprehensive upgrades to the water distribution network throughout the Kingston Metropolitan Area.

    Minister Samuda provided concrete progress updates, confirming that initial engineering phases for the new Hermitage Dam have been completed. “We anticipate finalizing transaction designs and procurement processes within the coming twelve months,” the minister declared to industry leaders.

    RAJ President Gabrielle Gilpin-Hudson characterized the infrastructure initiative as pivotal for Jamaica’s development trajectory. “We stand at the threshold of a transformative era where water infrastructure serves as the fundamental enabler for progress,” she stated. “For decades, our island’s potential in housing, agriculture, and comprehensive development has remained constrained by inadequate water access. Now we have both a viable timeline and clear implementation pathway—precisely what the market has awaited.”

    The minister additionally disclosed plans for upgrading the Soapberry sewage treatment facility to tertiary-level processing standards, supporting broader environmental objectives to restore Kingston Harbour’s ecological status as a blue-water body. Gilpin-Hudson emphasized the economic implications: “A revitalized harbor would initiate an entirely new developmental chapter for downtown Kingston, potentially positioning Jamaica among the world’s premier waterfront cities.”

    The RAJ leadership highlighted how reliable water access directly supports the Corporate Area’s evolving skyline, where multi-story residential and commercial developments require robust infrastructure. These government initiatives are viewed as essential foundations for sustainable development, affordable housing expansion, and enhanced economic vitality nationwide.

    Looking toward the future, the RAJ reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening public-private collaborations under its 60th anniversary theme: “Strengthening Partnerships for a More Efficient, Transparent and Sustainable Real Estate Sector.” Gilpin-Hudson concluded: “We remain open to collaborative engagement with all stakeholders—both private and public sectors—to advance Jamaica’s transition toward a first-world real estate market.”

    The leadership breakfast featured additional presentations from key financial and regulatory figures, including Yvett Anderson of Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Ltd (event sponsor), Hyacinth Picart of the National Land Agency, Andrew James of the Real Estate Board, and Dayton Wood of the Jamaica Developers Association.

  • Opposition leader Machado eyes Venezuela return in coming weeks

    Opposition leader Machado eyes Venezuela return in coming weeks

    Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has declared her intention to return to her homeland within weeks, ending a prolonged period of exile that included her travel to Oslo to accept the Nobel Peace Prize. The announcement comes during a critical political transition in the South American nation, which has seen significant governmental changes following the ousting of former leader Nicolas Maduro.

    The 58-year-old politician made her declaration through a video message distributed across her social media platforms, stating: “I will return in a few weeks to Venezuela. We will arrive to embrace one another, to work together, to ensure an orderly, sustainable and unstoppable transition to democracy.”

    Machado’s return will occur under the administration of Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed leadership after U.S. forces removed Maduro from power two months ago. The Venezuelan government had previously designated Machado as a fugitive from justice, alleging she advocated for military intervention against the nation.

    During her exile, the opposition leader maintained a significant presence in the United States, where she engaged with high-level officials including President Donald Trump at the White House. Their January meeting occurred shortly after Maduro’s extraction to New York for judicial proceedings. Machado has also conducted discussions with U.S. legislators, business executives, and numerous foreign dignitaries.

    Despite Trump’s expressed interest in involving Machado in Venezuela’s political restructuring, his administration has simultaneously supported Rodriguez’s interim governance. Machado faced electoral barriers when prohibited from participating in the 2024 presidential race, followed by extended concealment due to post-election repression after Maduro’s disputed reelection claim.

  • Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    PALM BEACH, United States — In a series of interviews from his Florida resort, President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing military engagement with Iran, acknowledging the loss of American lives while framing the conflict as strategically beneficial. The comments came following a Pentagon announcement confirming three US service members were killed and five seriously wounded during strikes targeting the Islamic Republic.

    Speaking with NBC News, the President characterized the casualties as an anticipated consequence of military action. “We have three, but we expect casualties, but in the end it’s going to be a great deal for the world,” Trump stated. He further elaborated to the Daily Mail, referring to the fallen soldiers as “great people” and noting that such losses were “unfortunately” expected and could potentially recur.

    The operation, which has reportedly resulted in the deaths of Iran’s supreme leader and numerous high-ranking government and military figures, was described by Trump as progressing “ahead of schedule.” He revealed that communication channels between Iranian and US officials remain active, though he provided no specific details regarding these discussions.

    Contradictory remarks emerged regarding diplomatic outreach, however. While acknowledging ongoing talks in one interview, Trump told the Daily Mail that Iranian officials “want to talk, but I said you should have talked last week not this week.” The President projected the military campaign would extend approximately four weeks, citing Iran’s substantial size as a factor in the timeline, while suggesting operations could conclude sooner.

    The White House had not issued an official statement on the casualties for five hours following the initial announcement by US Central Command on Sunday morning.

  • What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    PARIS, France — Iranian authorities have reported a devastating strike on an elementary school in the southern town of Minab, claiming over 100 fatalities and attributing the attack to the nation’s “enemies.

    The incident allegedly occurred on Saturday at the Shajare Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Hormozgan province, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz shipping route. Iranian state television identified the facility, while verified footage shows a damaged building adorned with colorful educational murals billowing black smoke.

    Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the casualty figures. The Iranian Red Crescent initially reported 108 deaths, while local governor officials later revised the toll to 165 fatalities as search operations concluded.

    Both United States and Israeli military authorities have denied involvement in any strike operation. Israel’s military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated: “At this point not aware of an Israeli or an American strike there… We’re operating in an extremely accurate manner.”

    The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not provided immediate official comment, though a spokesperson was quoted by The New York Times acknowledging awareness of reports concerning “civilian harm resulting from ongoing military operations” and confirming they “take these reports seriously and are looking into them.”

    Independent verification remains challenging as foreign media organizations require explicit Iranian government approval to report outside Tehran. AFP has geolocated footage to Minab but could not independently verify the nature of the site or the date the footage was filmed.

    Human rights organization Hengaw, based in Norway, has launched an investigation into the identities of the allegedly killed students. The group reported approximately 170 students were present during the school’s morning session when the incident occurred.