The Hopeful Hearts Foundation (HHF), established by Kristine Louisa, is making significant strides in uplifting communities across Antigua and Barbuda. Through its educational, humanitarian, and youth advocacy initiatives, HHF continues to inspire and empower individuals, particularly children and families in need.
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Limburg: We hebben geen andere keus dan de NDP te versterken
At a gathering held in tribute to the late Desi Bouterse on Monday evening, Clifton Limburg, former communications director of the Bouterse administration, called for unity within the National Democratic Party (NDP). Limburg emphasized the need to strengthen the party and preserve the legacy of its deceased leader, who played a pivotal role in shaping the NDP. He described the NDP as ‘the only party in Suriname where all people can feel at home.’
Limburg urged party members to honor Bouterse’s contributions to Suriname’s development since 1980, acknowledging both the highs and lows of his leadership. ‘We have known triumphs and challenges, but no one is perfect,’ he said. ‘We must remember him as a simple, focused, and forgiving individual.’ He expressed confidence that Bouterse’s significance would eventually be fully recognized, despite attempts by some to downplay his impact. ‘Time always provides the answers. I believe those who criticize him now will speak differently in the future,’ Limburg stated.
Highlighting the importance of unity, Limburg warned against internal divisions and external efforts to undermine the party’s cohesion. ‘Arm yourselves against intrigues and ensure we continue to support one another. We must keep all noses pointed in the same direction,’ he said, echoing Bouterse’s vision for the party. Limburg concluded by calling for the strengthening of the NDP’s structures and collective efforts to secure its leadership role in Suriname’s future, particularly in anticipation of the oil and gas sector’s growth by 2030.
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Youth in agriculture are key to future of health in Dominica, says Sen.Oscar George
Senator Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development, has called on young Dominicans to actively engage in agriculture to secure the nation’s food sustainability and health. Speaking at the Market Day with a Difference event in Mahaut, George emphasized the critical role of youth in preserving the agricultural legacy and ensuring food security. He urged a shift in mindset, moving away from viewing farming as a mere hobby to recognizing it as a vital profession. George highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and vendors, particularly in the Mahaut region, as essential contributors to the nation’s well-being. He stressed the importance of consuming locally produced, nutrient-rich foods over processed alternatives, linking dietary choices to public health outcomes. George concluded by advocating for a return to traditional, homegrown produce as the foundation for building a healthier, more resilient nation.
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Travel Group Donates $1,000 and Supplies to Cedar Grove Primary School After Theft
In a heartwarming act of generosity, Cedar Grove Primary School in Antigua received a significant boost this week following a recent theft. The travel group God Stamp LLC stepped in to provide much-needed support, donating $1,000 and essential school supplies, including laptops, printers, and TV stands. Their contribution not only addressed the immediate needs of the school but also brought joy to the students and staff through their engaging visit. Parliamentary Representative for St John’s Rural North, Charles Fernandez, lauded the group’s efforts, emphasizing their commitment to leaving a positive impact on the community. Principal Anther Anthony expressed profound gratitude, highlighting the transformative effect of the donation on the school’s resources. Members of God Stamp LLC, many with educational backgrounds, underscored the importance of supporting under-resourced schools, turning a challenging day into one of hope and blessings.
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SMA Alumni Reunion and UWI Global Campus join forces to present forum on education
In celebration of the 50th reunion of the St. Mary’s Academy (SMA) Class of 1974/75, the organizing committee has collaborated with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus in Dominica to organize a national educational forum. The event, titled ‘The Future of Education in Dominica: Our Response to the Changing Local, Regional, and Global Realities,’ is set to take place on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the UWI Global Campus. This initiative aims to spark a meaningful dialogue among prominent educators and thought leaders in Dominica. Key participants include Dr. Francis Severin, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UWI Global Campus; Dr. Swinburne Augustine, an academic consultant; Dr. Rosalind LaRocque, an education specialist; Dr. Edmund Tavernier, an education administrator; Mr. Michel Williams, a businessman and former banker; and Mr. Michael Augustine, who will moderate the discussion. The forum will address critical topics such as curriculum reform, bridging the digital divide, improving teacher training, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving global economy. Alvin Thomas, Chair of the SMA Reunion Committee, emphasized that the event transcends classroom boundaries, focusing on creating an education system that empowers youth and strengthens the nation. The forum is free and open to the public. This event is part of a week-long series of activities from October 11 to October 19, commemorating SMA’s 50 years of dedication to discipline, leadership, and service. Proceeds from the reunion will support the restoration of the Egbert Germain Wing at SMA. Other highlights include a school assembly, the donation of sports equipment to SMA students, and an entertainment night featuring Reggae, Cadence-Lypso, and Bouyon music on October 16 at Paradise Pier. The week will conclude with the SMA Old Boys Concert on October 17 at St. Gerard’s Hall, featuring performances by renowned Dominican alumni.
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OP-ED: An urgent call for consensus in favor of agriculture in the Americas
In a significant display of regional unity, countries across the Americas, governed by diverse political ideologies, have rallied behind a highly qualified candidate to lead the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The organization, pivotal in shaping agricultural public policy, health, and trade, plays a crucial role in maintaining the Americas’ status as a global leader in food production and export. Muhammad Ibrahim, a distinguished Guyanese agricultural engineer, has emerged as the preferred candidate for the position of Director General, with elections scheduled for November 4. Paraguay and Mexico, two major food-producing nations, were among the first to publicly endorse Ibrahim, citing his extensive international experience and technical expertise. The Paraguayan Foreign Ministry emphasized that Ibrahim’s leadership is essential for IICA’s next phase, particularly given his unanimous support from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). While other candidates from Honduras and Uruguay are also highly experienced, Ibrahim’s unique combination of technical proficiency and regional backing sets him apart. The current IICA Director General, Manuel Otero, has elevated the organization’s prominence and influence, leaving a legacy that underscores the importance of agriculture in the Americas. Moving forward, the region must focus on sustainable food production, trade promotion, and rural development to address challenges such as migration and depopulation. Technical cooperation will be vital in achieving these goals, and Ibrahim’s leadership is seen as instrumental in guiding this process. This collective endorsement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the Americas’ agricultural sector and ensuring its continued role in global food security.
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Unicomer Strengthens OECS Communities Through Culture, Sports, and Education in 2025
In 2025, Unicomer Group has reaffirmed its commitment to the Caribbean region by continuing its legacy of community investment and cultural support across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Building on the strong foundation laid in 2024, the company has launched a series of initiatives aimed at enriching lives and strengthening communities through cultural sponsorships, sports partnerships, educational support, and youth empowerment programs.
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Caribbean Court of Justice visits Guyana
The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has announced that its President, the Honourable Mr. Justice Winston Anderson, will undertake a series of high-profile engagements in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana from October 14 to October 17, 2025. The visit will be marked by the swearing-in ceremony of the Honourable Mr. Justice Arif Bulkan, a distinguished Guyanese jurist, as a Judge of the CCJ. The ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, and will be presided over by His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, at the Office of the President. Justice Bulkan’s appointment underscores Guyana’s commitment to regional judicial excellence and the strengthening of the Caribbean legal framework. Beyond the swearing-in, President Anderson’s agenda includes courtesy visits and strategic discussions with key figures such as the Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Honourable Madame Justice Roxane George; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Honourable Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP; and CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla N. Barnett, OBE. Additionally, he will engage with representatives from influential organizations, including We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), the APNU Parliamentary Group, and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM). These interactions aim to foster collaboration and reinforce the CCJ’s role in advancing justice and regional integration.
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Buitengewone AVA Staatsolie op het laatste moment afgeblazen
The highly anticipated Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Staatsolie, scheduled for today, was abruptly canceled at the last minute. The meeting, convened by Board Chairman Gonda Asadang and the Ministry of Natural Resources (NH), was set to address critical governance changes within the company. Notably, the Ministry of Oil & Gas, which oversees policy in the sector, appeared conspicuously absent from the discussions. The primary agenda items included the resignation of current Board of Commissioners (BOC) members and the appointment of new appointees: Rudolf Elias (Chairman), Sergio Akiemboto (Chief of Staff at the President’s Office), Aroon Samjhawan, Ewald Poetisi, Rudie Chin Jen Sem, Chantal Doekhie, and Edgar Caffé. Staatsolie’s Managing Director, Annand Jagesar, confirmed to Starnieuws that the management was informed of the cancellation this morning. ‘We were notified that the EGM will not proceed today. Beyond that, the management is unaware of the reasons behind this decision,’ Jagesar stated. According to Staatsolie’s statutes, an EGM must be convened at least 15 days in advance, though deviations can be approved during the meeting itself. The reasons for the postponement and the new date for the meeting remain undisclosed, leaving stakeholders in the dark about the future of the company’s leadership.
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Beach soccer thrills: Sea Breeze, Thunder dominate opening matches
The second weekend of the 2025 Barbados Beach Soccer Championship at Browne’s Beach delivered an electrifying showcase of skill and determination, with seven matches captivating fans and setting the stage for intense competition. Sea Breeze and Tropical Thunder emerged as early frontrunners, making strong statements in their respective games. Sea Breeze dominated Wave Runner with a decisive 3-0 victory, powered by Jabari Brandford’s double and Jamal Chandler’s contribution. Tropical Thunder, true to their name, stormed past Southern Ray with a commanding 5-2 win, led by Khalique Bowen’s brace and goals from Akel Inniss, Corian Skeete, and Jamar Grazette. The day also featured a nail-biting encounter between Island Invincibles and Solar Strikers, with the Invincibles narrowly clinching a 5-4 victory thanks to Rakeel Jackman’s hat-trick. Tropical Twisters stole the spotlight with a record-breaking 14-0 thrashing of Sea Turtle Brave, showcasing Javon Alleyne’s hat-trick and a dominant team performance. Bay Challengers edged Trident Tide 3-2 in a tightly contested match, while Pelican Pirates triumphed over Island Wave 3-2 in extra time. The day concluded with a high-scoring thriller as Sunshine United narrowly defeated Bajan Spartans 6-5, despite Shavid Maynard’s remarkable five-goal effort. The tournament, themed ‘Peace, Love, and Harmony,’ continues to deliver excitement as teams vie for the $10,000 grand prize.