BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Liberty Caribbean, through its renowned brands Flow and Liberty Business, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by introducing the first 5G+ mobile network in Barbados. This historic launch positions the island at the forefront of next-generation mobile connectivity in the Caribbean region. The initial phase of the rollout connects 22 strategic sites across Barbados, with the company aiming to cover at least 50% of the population by the end of the year. Full nationwide coverage is expected by the close of 2026. Inge Smidts, Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Caribbean, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, ‘This marks a pivotal chapter in Barbados’ digital evolution. Launching commercial 5G+ not only underscores our leadership in digital infrastructure but also highlights Barbados as a hub for innovation, investment, and talent.’ Smidts further highlighted the transformative impact of 5G+ on everyday life, enabling students, entrepreneurs, and families to access advanced digital tools, real-time analytics, and seamless high-definition streaming. Desron Bynoe, Vice President and General Manager of Flow Barbados, elaborated on the enhanced capabilities of the 5G+ network, which will complement the existing 4G LTE infrastructure. He noted that users can expect faster download speeds, smoother video calls, uninterrupted streaming, and reliable connectivity in crowded areas. Bynoe also underscored the broader implications of 5G+ for public services, tourism, and commercial digitalization, describing it as a platform for a more connected and resilient Barbados. The official launch event took place at Flow’s Customer Experience Centre in Windsor Lodge, celebrating years of investment and collaboration with partners. Liberty Caribbean, a subsidiary of Liberty Latin America, operates in over 20 Caribbean markets, delivering broadband, mobile, video, and voice services. Its B2B division, Liberty Business, supports enterprises and governments with advanced connectivity, cloud, security, and data center solutions. With a legacy spanning 150 years, Liberty Caribbean remains committed to empowering communities through innovative and tailored technological solutions.
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Mother to Take Legal Action After 12-Year-Old Struck by Bus
A mother in Antigua is taking legal action against a bus driver who allegedly struck her 12-year-old daughter while the child was crossing Joseph Lane after school. The incident, which occurred as Jakanda Dominique stepped off the sidewalk, has left the young girl with significant injuries and unable to attend school. Witnesses reported that the bus was traveling at high speed when it hit Jakanda, throwing her several feet. A nearby coach intervened to prevent further harm as the girl fell. Jakanda sustained injuries to her leg and shoulder, with her leg still in a cast and ongoing pain. Her mother, Clevelander Christian, claims the driver attempted to flee the scene but was stopped by bystanders. Christian also alleges that the driver has not contacted the family or expressed any concern since the incident. The matter has been reported to the police, who are currently investigating. Christian has sought legal representation to pursue damages, describing the driver’s actions as reckless. She has called for increased caution among public transport operators, particularly during school dismissal times when children are more vulnerable on the roads.
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Natio pakt zwaar bevochten punt tegen Panama: 1–1
In a fiercely contested World Cup qualifier, the Surinamese national football team managed to secure a valuable point against Panama in an away match that ended 1–1. Despite Panama’s dominance throughout the game, Suriname capitalized on their opportunities to deliver a resilient performance. Panama controlled possession from the outset, maintaining 67% of the ball in the first half and launching twelve attempts, four of which were on target. Suriname’s goalkeeper, Etienne Vaessen, played a pivotal role with several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Against the run of play, Suriname struck in the 21st minute through a swift counterattack. Cherry Tjaronn delivered a precise pass to Richonell Margaret, who calmly finished to give Suriname a 0–1 lead. Vaessen continued to shine, making two reflex saves to deny Panama an equalizer before halftime. In the second half, Panama intensified their pressure, pinning Suriname in their own half for extended periods. A controversial penalty claim was overturned by VAR, but Panama eventually found the equalizer in the 96th minute through relentless attacking. Despite the late setback, Suriname’s mental fortitude and tactical discipline earned them a crucial point, keeping their qualification hopes alive with two matches remaining in the group stage.
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Contracts ‘soon’ for St Peter road repairs – Bradshaw
Residents of St Peter are on the brink of witnessing long-awaited improvements to their local infrastructure, as contracts for major roadworks are set to be awarded within months. Transport and Works Minister Santia Bradshaw recently announced the upcoming projects, which include the reconstruction of the Farm Road bridge and repairs to Warleigh Road. These developments aim to address years of hazardous conditions and neglect in the area.
The Farm Road bridge, rendered unusable after a water main rupture caused extensive damage, has remained closed for an extended period, diverting traffic to Warleigh Road. Bradshaw revealed that the technical designs for the bridge’s reconstruction were finalized earlier this year, and the project is currently in the tender evaluation phase. A contract is expected to be awarded as early as next month.
Similarly, the Warleigh Road project has also been put out to tender, with repair work slated to commence early next year. Despite these promising developments, residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged delays in addressing the area’s infrastructure issues.
Brittany Brewster, a St Peter resident, highlighted the dire state of the road stretching from Hayman’s Market to Speightstown, which has been closed off for years and is now severely overgrown. She also emphasized the lack of pedestrian crossings, pavements, and proper lighting, particularly along the Ronald Mapp Highway, posing significant risks to schoolchildren and pedestrians.
Residents are hopeful that the promised roadworks will finally bring much-needed relief and safety to the community, ending years of neglect and hazardous conditions.
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A magazine about socialist Cuba and that better possible world
Cuba Socialista, the theoretical and political magazine of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, has unveiled its special 2024-2025 issue, coinciding with the Third Edition of the International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Leftist Parties and Movements in Havana. This edition marks the beginning of the commemorations for the 100th anniversary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, set to be celebrated in 2026. The commemorative program was officially presented on August 13, 2025, in Birán, Castro’s birthplace. The issue features a speech by Roberto Morales Ojeda, member of the Political Bureau and secretary of Organization of the Party’s Central Committee, delivered during the program’s launch. Additionally, the magazine honors the founders of the first Communist Party of Cuba in its centenary year and includes key speeches from the Second International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Left-wing Parties and Movements. A significant highlight is the report and closing remarks by Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Central Committee and President of Cuba, which underscore the depth of the debates and the principled positions adopted during the event. The issue also dedicates space to solidarity with the Palestinian people, reflecting the voices of over 100,000 Havana residents who protested against Israel’s actions in Gaza on October 9th. Furthermore, it commemorates the centenary of Vladimir Lenin’s passing, leader of the First Socialist Revolution. This special edition also kicks off the magazine’s 65th-anniversary celebrations, which will culminate in 2026 alongside the 9th Congress of the Communist Party and Fidel Castro’s centennial.
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Dominican Republic and Paraguay move toward direct flights
The Dominican Republic is set to enhance its air connectivity with South America as Paraguay prepares to introduce direct flights linking Asunción to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. Paraguay’s Secretary of Tourism, Anguie Duarte de Melillo, revealed that negotiations with Arajet, a Dominican airline, are nearing completion, with operations expected to commence by early 2026. This development marks a significant step in fostering stronger ties between the two nations. Dominican Tourism Minister David Collado emphasized Paraguay’s strategic position as a regional hub, connecting travelers from Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. He highlighted the mutual benefits of improved air connectivity, which will open new avenues for tourism and economic collaboration. Beyond aviation, the two countries are deepening their partnership in tourism development. Plans include revitalizing Asunción’s historic center, drawing inspiration from the Dominican Colonial City model, and Paraguay’s participation as a partner country in the 2026 Paraguay International Tourism Fair. Supported by UN Tourism, this initiative aligns with a broader regional strategy to promote sustainable tourism and bilateral cooperation. By reducing travel time—currently up to nine hours with stopovers—the partnership aims to strengthen cultural and economic exchanges, fostering a more interconnected and prosperous South America.
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President Simons: Leiderschap vraagt vertrouwen, ook in de storm
At a commemorative gathering held on Monday evening to honor what would have been the 80th birthday of Desi Bouterse, President Jennifer Simons, chairperson of the NDP, spoke candidly about the solitude and responsibility that leadership entails. ‘There are storms in which I have no power, because they are greater than I am,’ she remarked. ‘Yet, we must trust each other to do the best we can from the positions we hold.’
Simons described Bouterse’s life as ‘complete, yet meaningful to many,’ praising his perseverance despite the adversities he faced. ‘He meant something to everyone in Suriname—though not the same thing to everyone. He was controversial, yet deeply beloved. The place he stood was a lonely one. No matter how many people surrounded him—it was a solitary position. And he endured it for decades. Respect.’
The president acknowledged that she, too, experiences similar solitude in her current role when making difficult decisions. According to Simons, mutual trust is essential, both within the party and the nation. ‘If we do not collaborate—within the party and the country—we will not succeed. But if we stand together with a shared goal, Suriname will become the remarkable country we all know it can be.’
Simons referenced Bouterse’s own words as an example of his life philosophy: ‘When you sleep, I do not. And when you do not sleep, I sleep.’ In this, she recognized the burden of leadership but also the dedication to a greater purpose. ‘The life he led was not easy. Yet, he persevered, even in his solitude. That requires courage and trust.’
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Bruce Vale Bridge reconstruction faces new delays as frustrated residents call for action
The reconstruction of the Bruce Vale Bridge in St Andrew, Barbados, has encountered yet another delay, exacerbating frustration among Baxters residents. The project, already years behind schedule, has been further hindered by recent heavy rains, which have caused significant setbacks. The bridge, closed since 2021 due to structural failure, is considered crucial by the local community, but slow progress and recurring obstacles have pushed the anticipated completion date further away. Lester Boyce, a resident of Baxters, expressed his exasperation, stating, ‘It’s taking too long. It looks like it’s going to take another two years.’ Boyce, who visited the site after overnight rainfall, noted that the wet weather has worsened conditions, washing away much of the marl and mud along the banks, necessitating a restart in some areas. The Bruce Vale Bridge is one of eight bridges slated for reconstruction under the Scotland District Road Rehabilitation Programme. Work officially began on January 13, 2025, with demolition expected to last three weeks. However, by June, George Holder, the Ministry of Transport and Works consultant on the project, revealed that progress had been impeded by unforeseen ground conditions. ‘The major delay has been the redesign of the foundations of the abutments,’ Holder explained. ‘Despite the geotechnical investigations, the actual ground beneath the foundations was not as anticipated.’ Boyce also highlighted the poor condition of the roads in the area, urging motorists to navigate carefully due to loose rocks and uneven surfaces. Despite his frustration, Boyce remains hopeful that the area will eventually benefit from the repairs, stating, ‘At least nothing that I or nobody can do. Just hope for the best.’
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News : Zapping…
In a series of significant developments, Haiti has witnessed a mix of diplomatic, cultural, and public health updates. The Consulate of Haiti in Dajabón has issued a crucial notice regarding Schengen visa regulations. Haitian nationals holding a single-entry Schengen transit visa are now barred from entering the Dominican Republic. To transit through the Dominican Republic, travelers must possess a safe-conduct pass, a multiple-entry Schengen visa, or a valid visa from the United States or Canada. This directive, enforced by Dominican immigration authorities, underscores the importance of verifying travel documents before approaching the border.
In the realm of culture, Haitian writer Louis-Philippe Dalembert has been honored with the prestigious Prince Pierre of Monaco Foundation Literary Prize. Awarded on October 14, 2025, this accolade recognizes Dalembert’s extensive literary contributions. He follows in the footsteps of French writer Mathieu Belezi and was presented the award in the presence of esteemed jury member Dany Laferrière.
On a somber note, the town of Lanzac in Montrouis has reported a tragic outbreak of rabies. In September 2025, at least five individuals succumbed to the disease after being bitten by infected stray dogs. This incident highlights the urgent need for effective public health measures to combat such outbreaks.
In sports, French coach Sébastien Migné reflected on Haiti’s 3-0 defeat to Honduras in a post-match interview. Migné acknowledged the match’s challenges, identified areas for improvement, and emphasized the team’s resilience and determination to persevere.
On the international front, preparations are underway for the deployment of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti, as per UN Resolution 2793. Albert Ramdin, Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), is scheduled to visit Haiti at the end of October to oversee these efforts.
Lastly, a promising collaboration has emerged between Cap-Haitien and Taiwan. Transition Advisor Emmanuel Vertilaire, along with his Cabinet, met with Taiwanese Ambassador Cheng-Hao Hu to discuss funding for a sanitation project in Cap-Haitien. The discussions yielded favorable outcomes, paving the way for municipal authorities to initiate the coordination phase. This project, supported by technical and administrative assistance, aims to enhance the city’s sanitation infrastructure.
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Dominican official nominated to lead UN Office on Drugs and Crime
Santo Domingo – In a significant move to bolster international efforts against drug trafficking and organized crime, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic has put forward Leandro José Villanueva Acebal as the nation’s candidate to lead the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This nomination comes in response to a September proposal by the United States, which urged the Dominican government to take a leadership role in the agency. Villanueva, a seasoned professional, currently serves on the Board of Directors of the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD) and has previously held key positions such as Deputy Minister of Public Health and Director General of Medicines, Food, and Health Products (Digemaps). The UNODC, established in 1997, operates globally in over 150 countries, focusing on combating drugs, crime, terrorism, and corruption through policy development, training, and international collaboration. The position will soon be vacant as current Executive Director Ghada Waly prepares to step down next month. U.S. officials have lauded the Dominican Republic’s “proven record and strong commitment” in these areas, emphasizing that Villanueva’s candidacy would enhance UNODC’s leadership and foster greater global cooperation.