Antigua and Barbuda is set to hold its inaugural public HIV symposium on November 26, as health authorities aim to tackle a concerning uptick in new infections. The event, organized by the AIDS Secretariat, carries the theme “Overcoming Disturbances, Transforming the AIDS Response,” and seeks to enhance public awareness and reinforce prevention strategies. This initiative follows the detection of approximately 25 new HIV cases earlier this year, signaling a worrying reversal after years of declining infection rates. Dr. Maria Pereira, Clinical Care Coordinator, emphasized that the symposium will foster open dialogue. “We’re going to be engaging directly with the public. They’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers on any concerns they may have,” she stated. This marks a significant departure from previous years, where such sessions were exclusively tailored for healthcare professionals. Dr. Pereira attributed the recent surge in infections to unprotected sexual activity and urged residents to undergo regular testing. She highlighted that HIV testing is accessible daily at the AIDS Secretariat or through private providers, with a quick and straightforward pinprick procedure taking just 15 to 20 minutes. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 462-5975. Dr. Pereira also underscored the importance of sustained educational efforts, particularly among younger demographics, to reverse the current trend. The symposium will convene at the Multipurpose Centre and will feature presentations from leading healthcare practitioners.
博客
-
Logos Hope Extends Stay in Antigua by 24 hours
The world-renowned floating bookstore, MV Logos Hope, has decided to extend its stay in Antigua and Barbuda by an additional day, now scheduled to depart at 11 p.m. on November 19. Originally set to leave on November 16, the 24-hour extension provides locals and visitors an extra opportunity to explore its extensive collection of books and educational resources for all ages. This visit marks the ship’s first return to Antigua since 2017, attracting significant interest from the community. Since its launch in 2009, Logos Hope has become a global phenomenon, visiting over 100 ports across six continents and welcoming more than nine million visitors. Operated by GBA Ships, it is the fourth vessel in a fleet that began in 1970 with the original Logos, followed by Doulos and Logos II. The extended stay offers a final chance for book enthusiasts and curious minds to experience this unique floating cultural hub before it continues its worldwide journey.
-
Over 100 Short Course graduates to be celebrated by Youth Development Division
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development in Dominica is gearing up to host its highly anticipated Short Course Certificate Award Ceremony on November 21, 2025, at 2:30 PM. The event, to be held at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital Amphitheatre, will recognize the accomplishments of over 100 young individuals who have successfully completed an intensive eight-week training program. These sessions, conducted across seven communities and one online platform, aimed to equip participants aged 16 to 35 with practical, market-ready skills to enhance their employability, foster entrepreneurship, and support personal development. The training, which ran from November 2024 to November 2025, was offered free of charge and covered a diverse range of specialized modules, including Small Electronic Repair, Basic Sewing, Canva & Photoshop Design, Financial Literacy, Beginner Videography, Digital Devices Maintenance & Repair, Digital Literacy, and Public Speaking & Leadership Presence. Additionally, participants benefited from weekly Soft Skills Workshops that focused on essential areas such as communication, teamwork, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, workplace culture, leadership, stress management, and time management. The Youth Development Division expressed its commitment to continuing its efforts to empower young people through initiatives like the Digital Literacy & Work Readiness Program, the Heavy Equipment & Truck Operations Program, and community-based leadership and life skills workshops. The Ministry looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the graduates and reaffirms its dedication to supporting youth empowerment across Dominica.
-
“Just leave the boy alone”: Family Mourns Burn Victim’s death
The tragic death of 61-year-old Dawn Bernard has left her family in profound grief, as they grapple with the shocking circumstances surrounding her passing. Bernard succumbed to her injuries on November 17, a week after being found with severe burns on Lakeview Street on November 10. Her cousin, Suzette Marsden, emotionally recounted their close bond, describing Bernard as more of a sister than a relative. Marsden revealed that she had often advised Bernard to move on from a troubled relationship, emphasizing that life offers new opportunities beyond past heartbreaks. The family remains in disbelief, as they never anticipated such a devastating outcome. Police are actively investigating the case, which initially involved charges of attempted murder and use of deadly means of harm against Bernard’s common-law husband, 35-year-old Frederick Wagner. Authorities have indicated that if a pending post-mortem examination confirms her death resulted from the injuries sustained, Wagner’s charges will be upgraded to murder. This case underscores the grim reality of domestic violence, as police confirmed Bernard had previously filed a report against Wagner in 2018, though no further complaints were made thereafter.
-
FLASH : Haiti has qualified for the 2026 World Cup (video)
In a historic triumph, Haiti’s national football team, the Grenadiers, has secured direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their return to the global stage after a 51-year hiatus. The decisive moment came on November 18, 2025, during the final phase of the CONCACAF qualifiers, where Haiti faced Nicaragua in the second leg of their sixth group match at the Estadio Ergilio Hato in Willemstad, Curaçao. The Grenadiers emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, cementing their place at the top of Group C. Deedson Louicius opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a precise left-footed shot, while Ruben Providence doubled the lead with a close-range header just before halftime. The team’s defensive prowess in the second half ensured Nicaragua’s repeated attacks were thwarted. This achievement not only signifies Haiti’s second World Cup appearance since their debut in 1974 but also unites generations of Haitians worldwide in celebration. Under the guidance of French coach Sébastien Migné, the Grenadiers showcased resilience and skill, with standout performances from players like Louicius, Providence, and Carlens Arcus. The victory is a testament to Haiti’s growing football legacy and a source of national pride.
-
STATEMENT: Ministry of education on passing of educator Claudia Toussaint
The Ministry of Education has expressed profound sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and students of the late Ms. Claudia Toussaint, Assistant Principal at Pierre Charles Secondary School. Ms. Toussaint, who joined the school in 2002, dedicated her entire career to the institution, leaving an indelible mark on the education community. Known for her unwavering commitment and passion, she was a beacon of inspiration to all who knew her. Ms. Toussaint’s selfless dedication to her students’ well-being and her role as a teacher, administrator, and mentor earned her immense love and respect. Her passing has created a void that will be deeply felt, but her legacy of dedication and impact will endure. The Ministry stands in solidarity with her family, the school staff, and students during this challenging time, offering prayers for strength and comfort in her cherished memory. Rest in Eternal Peace, Educator.
-
Global EITI board asked to intervene in impasse over local civil society representation
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a global anti-corruption watchdog, has been called upon to intervene in a growing dispute over the selection of civil society representatives in Guyana’s local EITI chapter, GYEITI. The controversy centers on allegations that the Guyana government is exerting undue influence over the process, undermining the independence required by EITI standards. Policy Forum Guyana (PFG), alongside EITI chapters from Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and Australia, has formally requested the EITI Board to issue a public statement condemning the government’s actions. The Board is set to meet this week in Armenia. The civil society groups argue that the government’s approach violates the EITI Standard 2023, which mandates the independence of all sectors involved in the Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG). The Ministry of Natural Resources has been accused of monopolizing the selection process, despite already controlling the GYEITI Secretariat’s financial, staffing, and communications decisions. Earlier this year, the ministry appointed Dr. Ivor English as the convenor of civil society organizations, a move criticized by PFG and other groups. The organizations are demanding a return to compliance with EITI standards, including the reconvening of previous MSG co-chairs to oversee the selection process. They also recommend an early validation of Guyana’s adherence to EITI requirements. The dispute highlights broader concerns about the government’s influence over civil society and its commitment to transparency in the extractive industries.
-
DGS nabs first place at second annual public speaking competition in disaster risk management
The Disaster Management Office (ODM) successfully concluded its second annual Public Speaking Contest on Disaster Risk Management, held on November 14, 2025, at their headquarters. The event showcased the talents of five students from various high schools, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness and resilience. Participants included Osa-Marie Hunter from Convent High School, Niola Alleyne from Wesley High School, Kherna Stevens from Northeast Comprehensive School, Kaelan Matthew from St. Mary’s Academy, and Tamar Winston from Dominica Grammar School. Tamar Winston emerged as the winner, with Kaelan Matthew and Kherna Stevens securing second and third places, respectively. Minister of National Security Rayburn Blackmoore addressed the students, commending their dedication to research and encouraging them to remain proactive in environmental stewardship. The ODM expressed gratitude to participating schools, educators, parents, and sponsors Springfield Trading Ltd., H.H.V. Whitchurch, and Do It Center for their support. The contest highlighted the students’ commitment to fostering a culture of disaster resilience and served as a platform for youth engagement in critical societal issues.
-
New Year, New Water Prices
In a significant development for Belize, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved a 13.5% increase in the Mean Water Rate (MWR) for Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL), effective next year. This adjustment, though lower than the 20% hike initially proposed by BWSL, will lead to an approximate 5.5% rise in customers’ monthly water bills. The PUC emphasized that the new pricing structure aims to ensure fairness, particularly for low-consumption households. Notably, the current flat rate of $8.72 for usage up to 1,000 gallons will be replaced with a per-gallon charge, marking a shift toward more equitable billing practices. Additionally, the PUC has greenlit a $130 million capital investment program designed to upgrade infrastructure, enhance water production, improve energy efficiency, and bolster security measures. A further $20 million has been allocated to expand water production and storage facilities in Placencia, Caye Caulker, and San Pedro, addressing the demands of growing populations. BWSL has also been authorized to increase contributions for water main extensions, with caps set at $6,000 on the mainland and $10,000 on the islands. While household water bills will see an uptick, the PUC has opted not to raise other administrative fees. Commercial water use, however, remains under the jurisdiction of the National Integration Water Resources Authority (NIWRA) and was not addressed in this decision. These changes follow a comprehensive review of BWSL’s 2026 Full Tariff Review Proceedings, which included public consultations and rigorous assessments of technical and financial data.
-
OPINION: Why Saint Lucia’s ministers still hold power – and why the constitution says they should
Last week, Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre announced the dissolution of Parliament, invoking Section 55(4) of the Constitution. This move, which paves the way for a general election, sparked debates over the authority of Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire, who subsequently issued ministerial statements. Critics questioned the legitimacy of his actions, arguing that the executive branch had effectively ceased to exist with the dissolution. However, this interpretation is a misconception rooted in a misunderstanding of the constitutional framework. The Constitution of Saint Lucia remains the supreme law, and its provisions ensure the continuity of government functions during such transitional periods. The dissolution of Parliament, as outlined in Section 40, halts legislative activities but does not dismantle the executive branch. Ministers, including the Prime Minister, retain their roles under the ‘caretaker’ convention, ensuring the day-to-day governance of the country. The Governor General, while vested with executive authority, typically acts on the advice of the Prime Minister, reflecting Westminster conventions. This constitutional continuity allows ministers to exercise their powers until the new Parliament convenes. The debate over the legitimacy of initiatives like the VAT-free holiday and the St. Jude Hospital ceremony during this period is thus unfounded. The Constitution, supported by legal precedents and conventions, provides a clear framework for governance during dissolution, ensuring stability and continuity in Saint Lucia’s democratic processes.