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  • Mecca, Dupes score credits on Mahalia’s new Luvergirl EP

    Mecca, Dupes score credits on Mahalia’s new Luvergirl EP

    Saint Lucian artists Dupes and Mecca have made their mark as featured writers on Mahalia’s latest EP, ‘Luvergirl.’ Mahalia, a British singer celebrated for her MOBO Award win and Grammy and BRIT nominations, released the seven-track project in August. Dupes is credited as a writer on two tracks, including ‘Pity,’ which was produced by Jamaica’s IzyBeats and features reggae legend Tanya Stephens. The song cleverly samples Stephens’ 2004 classic of the same name. Additionally, Dupes and Mecca contributed to the dancehall-inspired track ‘Instructions,’ which is built around the iconic Jamaican riddim, ‘The Buzz.’

    These collaborations emerged from the Trade Partnerships – Masterroom Music Songwriting Camp, held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in February. The initiative aimed to strengthen creative and commercial ties between the Caribbean and the UK music industries. Lorcan O’Brian, Caribbean Regional Trade for Development advisor, emphasized the Caribbean’s immense talent and creativity, stating, ‘We really want to see that grow and ensure those commercial links are made with the UK.’

    Arnette Mark, CEO of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, praised the songwriting camp as a platform that not only promotes local talent but also positions the island as a hub for cultural collaboration. ‘Getting that exposure and meeting people from outside of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a great thing for us,’ she said, expressing her anticipation for future collaborations and more writing camps. O’Brian added that the long-term vision is to deepen cross-cultural exchange, highlighting the deep historical ties between the UK and the Caribbean. ‘We want to boost cultural collaboration, keep revenue flowing from the UK, and creativity flowing in both directions,’ he concluded.

  • LETTER: When Failure Speaks Loudly: A Response to Anthony Smith Jr.

    LETTER: When Failure Speaks Loudly: A Response to Anthony Smith Jr.

    In a scathing letter to the editor, a concerned resident of All Saints West has called out their parliamentary representative, Anthony Smith Jr., for his perceived failure to address critical issues plaguing the constituency. The letter, written in response to Smith’s recent article criticizing Harold Lovell, accuses the representative of hypocrisy and neglect. The resident highlights several pressing concerns, including the closure of the All Saints Clinic for over 900 days, escalating crime rates, deteriorating infrastructure, and inadequate garbage collection. These issues, they argue, have left the community in a state of despair. The letter also questions Smith’s political integrity, noting his shift from the UPP banner to the government benches without delivering tangible results. The resident concludes by demanding accountability and better leadership, emphasizing that the people of All Saints West deserve a representative who prioritizes their needs over personal ambition.

  • Officer, sergeant transferred from Police Academy for “inappropriate conduct”

    Officer, sergeant transferred from Police Academy for “inappropriate conduct”

    In a significant development at the Guyana Police Force Academy’s Georgetown campus, an officer and three sergeants have been reassigned following allegations of “inappropriate conduct.” The Guyana Police Force confirmed the transfers, emphasizing that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. The investigation, led by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), has concluded, with statements collected from several Academy staff members and recruits. The case file is set to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution on October 13, 2025, for further legal guidance. The OPR, which reports directly to the Police Commissioner, initiated the probe after the incidents were brought to the Commissioner’s attention. This move underscores the Police Force’s commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability within its ranks. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the institution’s internal governance and public trust.

  • Boogschutters richten pijlen op de toekomst

    Boogschutters richten pijlen op de toekomst

    Archery, often considered a niche sport in Suriname, is steadily gaining recognition thanks to a recent open day event organized by TNF Archery, DWL Archery Club Suriname, and KFC Suriname. Held at the Witte Lotus, the event aimed to introduce the public to the basics of archery, including fundamental techniques, different types of bows, and the sheer joy of hitting a target. Participants, ranging from curious beginners to potential enthusiasts, were guided through the process with instructions like “Elbow up for more power. Pull. Aim. Hold. Release!” The targets were set at a modest five meters to ensure accessibility and encourage participation. One young participant, visibly thrilled after hitting the bullseye, celebrated with a spontaneous dance, exclaiming, “Right in the center!” Niradj Hanuman of TNF Archery emphasized the event’s goal: “We want to raise awareness about archery. It’s still a niche sport here, but we hope to change that by showing people how fun and rewarding it can be.” Hanuman also highlighted the sport’s global significance, noting that target archery is an Olympic discipline, while hunting archery remains popular in certain regions. Currently, TNF and DWL are the only archery clubs in Suriname, but efforts are underway to establish a national federation in collaboration with the Surinamese Olympic Committee to further develop the sport.

  • Mexico Floods Leave 47 Dead, Dozens Missing

    Mexico Floods Leave 47 Dead, Dozens Missing

    Mexico is grappling with a devastating humanitarian crisis as torrential rains from Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond have caused catastrophic floods and landslides, leaving at least 47 people dead and 38 others missing. The states of Veracruz, Hidalgo, and Puebla have been the hardest hit, with Veracruz reporting 18 fatalities, Hidalgo 16, and Puebla 12. Rescue operations are underway, with the Mexican Army, Air Force, and National Guard mobilizing to deliver essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid, to affected areas. In some regions of Veracruz, floodwaters surged to over 12 feet after rivers overflowed, exacerbating the destruction. President Claudia Sheinbaum visited the impacted towns on Sunday to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts. The Civil Protection agency has confirmed the ongoing search for missing individuals, while rescue teams work tirelessly to evacuate residents and provide emergency care. The dual tropical systems have now dissipated, but the aftermath continues to pose significant challenges for recovery and rebuilding.

  • Message from the Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service

    Message from the Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service

    On the occasion of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, the Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service (ABMS) emphasized the critical importance of investing in resilience rather than disaster response. This year’s theme, ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of natural hazards. The ABMS has been instrumental in safeguarding lives and property through its multi-hazard early warning system, as demonstrated during Tropical Storm Jerry. However, the flooding of the ABMS office during the storm underscored the urgent necessity for a climate-resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather events. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other global institutions, every $1 invested in early warning systems can yield returns of $10 to $15 by reducing losses and enhancing economic stability. The Global Commission on Adaptation estimates a cost-benefit ratio of 1:9, while the WMO suggests that an $800 million investment in developing countries could prevent $3 to $16 billion in annual losses. The ABMS Director called for sustained investment in people, technology, and resilient infrastructure to ensure the continued effectiveness of early warning systems in protecting lives and livelihoods for future generations.

  • FAO Launches Digital Agriculture Workshop to Boost Horticultural Crop Management

    FAO Launches Digital Agriculture Workshop to Boost Horticultural Crop Management

    The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy, has launched a groundbreaking national workshop focused on digital solutions for horticultural crop management. Held at the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), the event brought together extension officers, farmers, backyard gardeners, and technical officers for hands-on training in Digital Agriculture and Soil Scanning. This initiative is part of the FAO FVC Digital Solutions Project, a regional effort designed to enhance farmers’ ability to manage data for better decision-making across the fruit and vegetable value chain (FVC). The project introduces cutting-edge tools and technologies that enable real-time collection, analysis, and sharing of agricultural data, thereby improving the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of small- and medium-scale farming operations. Mr. Ika Fergus, FAO National Correspondent, and Mr. Adrian Bowen, National Focal Point, are leading the local implementation. They highlighted the initiative’s goal to bridge the gap between traditional farming and digital transformation by providing practical knowledge in data management, crop monitoring, and soil information systems. A significant focus of the workshop is soil scanning integration, which combines field data, laboratory analyses, and satellite imagery to create detailed maps of soil types, fertility, and suitability. This approach allows farmers and technicians to make informed decisions on crop selection, fertilizer use, irrigation planning, and land management. Facilitators noted that these digital mapping tools will help the Ministry develop a national soil information system, supporting horticultural development, broader agricultural planning, and climate resilience. Participants will also be trained to upload and interpret data from their districts, ensuring the technology is practical and community-centered. This workshop exemplifies how innovation and information technology are revolutionizing food production, management, and marketing in Antigua and Barbuda.

  • Clarke bowls brilliantly, but Blitz prevail in Canada Super 60

    Clarke bowls brilliantly, but Blitz prevail in Canada Super 60

    In a thrilling encounter at the Canada Super 60 cricket tournament, Brampton Blitz emerged victorious against the Vancouver Kings, thanks to a stellar all-round performance by David Wiese. Despite an exceptional bowling spell from McKenny Clarke, who claimed 3 wickets for just 7 runs, the Kings fell short of defending their total of 111-8. Clarke, the 22-year-old fast bowler from Saint Lucia, dismantled the Blitz’s top order, leaving them reeling at 30-4. However, Wiese, the Blitz captain, turned the tide with an unbeaten 62 off 27 balls, steering his team to a six-wicket win with just two balls to spare. Wiese had earlier contributed with the ball, taking 3-7 to restrict the Kings. Yuvraj Samra also played a crucial role, scoring 19 not out off 10 balls. Clarke’s efforts were not in vain, as he now leads the economy table with an impressive 5.20 runs per over. The Kings, despite the loss, have qualified for the playoffs and will face the Montreal Tigers in their next match.

  • US issues warning to Caribbean countries ahead of IMO vote on net-zero shipping framework

    US issues warning to Caribbean countries ahead of IMO vote on net-zero shipping framework

    The United States has issued a stern warning to countries, including those in the Caribbean, regarding an upcoming vote on the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Shipping Framework (NZF). The NZF, aimed at reducing emissions in the maritime sector, is set for adoption during the Marine Environmental Protection Committee meeting in October 2025. The US has labeled the framework as a ‘European-led neocolonial export of global climate regulations’ and has vowed to impose economic penalties on nations that support it. A joint statement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, and Secretary of Transportation Sean P Duffy emphasized the US’s commitment to protecting its economic interests and rejecting any measures that could increase costs for American citizens, energy providers, and shipping companies. The NZF, approved in April 2025, seeks to align international shipping emissions with the 2050 net-zero target through a Global Fuel Standard, a carbon price mechanism, and a credit trading system. The US argues that the framework could lead to a 10% increase in global shipping costs and impose an unsanctioned global carbon tax. The US is considering actions against countries that support the NZF, which it views as a threat to global economic stability.

  • Schools can address health, safety issues internally first. Here’s how, says official

    Schools can address health, safety issues internally first. Here’s how, says official

    Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles emphasized the importance of proactive health and safety committees in Barbados’ schools during a session at the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College on Monday. Addressing over 130 educators, Beckles highlighted that many health and safety concerns could be resolved internally at the school level, reducing the need for ministry or union intervention. Her remarks follow last year’s disruptions, where teachers staged walkouts over environmental and safety issues, leading to temporary school closures in some cases. Beckles urged schools to foster a collaborative culture on safety, ensuring that committees function effectively to address problems before they escalate. While all schools have legally mandated health and safety committees, Beckles noted that not all are operating at full capacity. She stressed the need for these committees to be more active and engaged, particularly in addressing issues like rodent infestations through education and preventive measures. Beckles also underscored the ministry’s commitment to supporting these teams as part of Barbados’ broader education transformation efforts, which aim to modernize school environments with a focus on health and safety. As the country observes Caribbean Safety Week, Beckles called for renewed energy in creating a culture of safety in schools, encouraging committees to conduct regular meetings and inspections even in the absence of immediate problems.