The United States has unveiled a comprehensive hike in immigration and visa fees, set to take effect this October. The new fee structure introduces substantial increases across various categories, impacting foreign travelers, immigrants, and visa applicants.
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More Americans are CBI-approved citizens of Grenada
The latest data from Grenada’s Investment Migration Agency (IMA), formerly known as the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Unit, reveals a significant shift in the nationalities of new citizens approved under the program in 2025. In the second quarter, 12% of the 402 new CBI-approved citizens were US nationals, marking a notable increase from the first quarter, where only 1% of 632 approved citizens were from the United States. This surge positioned the US as the second-highest nationality, trailing behind China, which accounted for 10% of approvals, and surpassing Nigeria, which also represented 10%. This is the first time Nigeria has been displaced from its usual second-place ranking in the CBI program. Other nationalities approved during this period included Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, and several African and Middle Eastern countries. As of the end of the second quarter, the program had approved 893 new citizens, generating EC$103.2 million in revenue, according to the Ministry of Finance’s June 2025 report. Thomas Anthony, CEO of the IMA, announced plans to expand the program’s marketing efforts in Africa, with a focus on West Africa. A team from the agency is set to tour the region in October 2025, building on recent engagements in Kenya, where over 100 individuals attended a promotional event in collaboration with the Nairobi Chamber of Commerce. Anthony emphasized Nigeria’s prominence in African applications and expressed optimism about extending the program’s reach to other African nations.
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COMMENTARY: My friend Grenadian revolutionary Lt. Col.Liam James, a personal memoir of the Grenada Revolution, Dominica & the Douglas brothers
The Grenada Revolution, a pivotal chapter in Caribbean history, remains a subject of deep reflection and analysis. At its heart was Lieutenant Colonel Liam James, a key figure whose life and actions offer profound lessons on leadership, revolution, and the rule of law. This narrative revisits the revolution through the lens of personal encounters, political dynamics, and the broader implications for Caribbean governance.
Liam James first emerged as a revolutionary leader during the 1979 Grenada Revolution, which sought to overthrow the authoritarian regime of Eric Gairy. His journey began in 1978 at the 11th World Festival of Youth and Students in Havana, Cuba, where he forged bonds with fellow Caribbean activists, including the author. Their discussions, fueled by revolutionary zeal, envisioned a socialist future for the region.
James played a central role in the revolution’s early days, accompanying Prime Minister Maurice Bishop on missions to assist Dominica after Hurricane David in 1979. However, the revolution soon faced internal fractures. Ideological purity and personal rivalries overshadowed the movement’s initial idealism, leading to the tragic massacre of Bishop and others in October 1983. The subsequent U.S. invasion marked the revolution’s collapse, with James and other leaders arrested and sentenced to death, later commuted to imprisonment.
The Grenada Revolution’s downfall was rooted in its disregard for democratic norms and civil liberties. The People’s Revolutionary Government (PRG) closed parliament, suspended elections, and detained critics without due process, eroding its legitimacy. This ‘heavy manners’ approach starkly contrasted with the constitutional and inclusive strategies advocated by leaders like Rosie and Michael Douglas in Dominica.
Rosie Douglas, a prominent Pan-Africanist, championed the Committee of National Salvation (CNS), which united diverse political factions to ensure a peaceful transition of power in Dominica. His brother, Michael, emphasized the importance of education, temperance, and respect for democratic institutions. Their leadership underscored the value of dialogue, compromise, and the rule of law in achieving lasting political change.
As the Caribbean reflects on this tumultuous period, the lessons are clear. Revolutions that abandon constitutional safeguards risk descending into tyranny. The Grenada Revolution’s failure serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for leadership grounded in humility, education, and respect for individual rights. The Golden Rule—treating others as one wishes to be treated—remains a timeless principle for governance and justice.
This narrative, drawn from personal experiences and historical analysis, underscores the enduring relevance of these lessons as the Caribbean continues its journey toward democracy and social progress.
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Creole Heartbeat radio series explores ‘WCMF @ 25: From Idea to World Class Festival’
In today’s digitally-driven world, social media platforms have become the cornerstone of communication and information dissemination. The act of sharing content—whether through tweets, pins, or posts—has evolved into a powerful tool for engagement and influence. A recent image, hosted on a news platform, exemplifies this phenomenon. The image, which has been widely circulated, underscores the significance of visual content in capturing audience attention and fostering interaction. As users continue to share and engage with such content, the dynamics of digital communication are being reshaped, highlighting the transformative power of social media in connecting individuals and amplifying messages across the globe.
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Leading Cancer Experts to Convene in Antigua for Regional Symposium
This weekend, Antigua will become the epicenter of a groundbreaking initiative as some of the Caribbean’s most distinguished health professionals convene for the Multi-Disciplinary Cancer Symposium. Hosted by the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) at the luxurious Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa, the event aims to address one of the region’s most pressing health crises—cancer. The symposium will bring together a diverse array of specialists, including oncologists, urologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, radiologists, surgeons, nutritionists, and nurses, to share insights and develop actionable strategies for improving cancer prevention, treatment, and patient care.
Salma Crump, SLBMC’s Marketing and Communications Manager, emphasized the symposium’s broader mission: ‘We are creating a collaborative platform where knowledge, innovation, and compassion converge to make cancer care more effective, accessible, and equitable for our communities.’ The event will feature presentations from leading experts such as Dr. Anesa Ahamad, who will discuss advancements in breast cancer care; Dr. Jonathan Makanjuola, who will explore the role of artificial intelligence in prostate cancer treatment; and Dr. Michelle Reece-Mills, who will address the unique challenges of pediatric oncology.
Cancer remains a leading cause of death in the Caribbean, with late diagnoses, treatment gaps, and disparities in access to care posing significant challenges. Organizers hope the symposium will strengthen regional health systems by fostering collaboration and equipping professionals with practical solutions. ‘This is about saving lives,’ Crump stated. ‘The symposium is not just theoretical—it’s about building capacity, forging partnerships, and ensuring the Caribbean is not left behind in the global fight against cancer.’
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Sherfield Bowen wants authorities to prioritize how illegal guns are entering the country
Opposition MP Sherfield Bowen has called for a strategic focus on tracing the origins of illegal firearms entering Antigua and Barbuda, emphasizing the need for advanced container scanning technologies at the border. Speaking at a United Progressive Party town hall, Bowen criticized reactive measures to violent incidents, advocating instead for a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach to crime prevention. He highlighted the alarming rise in gun-related crimes as a critical national issue, urging authorities to identify and disrupt the channels through which firearms are smuggled into the country. Bowen speculated that weapons might be entering via sea routes or concealed in shipping containers, stressing that enhancing container inspections and investing in detection technologies should be top priorities. He also underscored the importance of a long-term strategy involving collaboration between law enforcement, educators, social workers, and communities to achieve sustainable crime reduction. Bowen concluded that since Antigua and Barbuda does not manufacture firearms, addressing the external sources of these weapons is essential to curbing the escalating violence.
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LETTER: Open Letter to the Prime Minister | Time for Reflection Before Early Elections
In a scathing open letter addressed to the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, a concerned citizen has voiced deep-seated frustrations over the nation’s trajectory under the current administration. The letter questions the rationale behind the Prime Minister’s consideration of early elections, challenging the administration to demonstrate tangible achievements that would justify another term in office. The writer highlights widespread disillusionment among citizens, citing unmet promises, deteriorating public services, and worsening socio-economic conditions. Key issues such as crumbling infrastructure, a struggling education system, an overburdened healthcare sector, and rising crime rates are emphasized as evidence of governmental neglect. The letter accuses the administration of prioritizing political maneuvering over genuine progress, urging the Prime Minister to focus on delivering measurable improvements rather than relying on rhetoric. It concludes with a call for accountability, asserting that the people of Antigua and Barbuda are no longer willing to accept empty promises and are prepared to demand real change.
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PAHO/WHO and Antigua and Barbuda sign multi-country cooperation strategy 2026-2031 to advance health and resilience
In a landmark move to address pressing health challenges, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has joined forces with the governments of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries to sign the Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) 2026–2031. The agreement was formalized in Washington, D.C., during the sidelines of the 62nd Directing Council of PAHO. The signing ceremony was attended by PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Barbados’ Minister of Health Senator Dr. Jerome Walcott, and Grenada’s Minister of Health Hon. Philip Telesford, with other Ministers of Health set to follow suit. The MCCS aims to enhance health and development across seven nations: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These countries, with a combined population of over 886,000, are characterized by stable parliamentary democracies and a predominantly African descent population, alongside indigenous Kalinago and Garifuna communities. The strategy was developed through extensive consultations with Member States, civil society, and development partners, focusing on critical health issues such as high rates of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), persistent infectious diseases, and the growing impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Despite high life expectancy, health inequities driven by social and economic factors remain a challenge, compounded by health system issues like workforce shortages and high out-of-pocket spending. The MCCS prioritizes strengthening health systems, expanding primary health care, and building climate-resilient infrastructure through initiatives like PAHO’s Smart Hospitals program. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa emphasized the shared commitment to transform health systems, address inequities, and build resilience against climate and health threats. The strategy outlines five Strategic Priorities and 16 Strategic Deliverables, focusing on strengthening health governance, combating communicable diseases, reducing NCDs and mental health burdens, transforming health systems, and building climate-resilient health systems. These priorities align with regional frameworks like the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), fostering collaboration to address shared challenges such as economic dependencies and climate risks, exemplified by the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl in 2024. The MCCS builds on progress in NCD prevention, mental health integration, and digital health transformation, while strengthening partnerships with organizations like CARPHA, UNICEF, and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition to ensure inclusive, community-driven solutions. It is a call to action for governments, communities, and partners to work together toward a healthier, more resilient Caribbean.
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FIDE Director for Chess Development visits Antigua and Barbuda
The Antigua and Barbuda Chess Federation recently hosted a landmark visit by renowned chess grandmaster Nigel Short, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the region. Upon his arrival, Short was warmly welcomed by key figures of the federation, including President Hannibal Fleming, Vice President Matthew Bailey, and Media Manager Julian Piper. The visit commenced with a social gathering at the Cedar Valley Golf Club, attended by cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards and Leon “Kuma” Rodney, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association. During the event, Sir Vivian shared his personal connection to chess, reminiscing about his interactions with Viswanathan Anand and the inspiration he drew from the historic Fischer–Spassky match of 1972. The following day, Short conducted a simultaneous exhibition, triumphing in all eight games against Antigua’s top players, including members of the national team. He also expressed strong support for the country’s initiative to send its first women’s team to the 46th Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan. The event was graced by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams and his wife, Sonja Williams, alongside Sir Vivian Richards and Kuma Rodney. Short’s visit extended to media appearances, where he and Hannibal Fleming discussed the future of chess in Antigua and Barbuda on ABS Television. The delegation also met with prominent government officials, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who pledged unwavering support for the federation’s initiatives. Additionally, Short visited the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, where Principal Professor Justin Robinson highlighted the potential of chess to enrich campus life. The trip concluded with visits to Island Academy and Cobs Cross Primary School, where Short introduced students to the fundamentals of chess, encouraging them to embrace the game. This visit not only celebrated the growth of chess in Antigua and Barbuda but also laid the groundwork for future development and international representation.
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HaMaFilms Antigua partners with Julees Restaurant to showcase Caribbean Films
In a vibrant cultural revival, HaMafilms Antigua has partnered with Julees Restaurant to breathe new life into the Travelling Caribbean Film Showcase, a beloved initiative that once thrived under the Cuban Film Institute and UNESCO’s support. The showcase, which began in 2010, was abruptly halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the passing of its visionary leader, filmmaker Rigaberto Lopez. Now, HaMafilms is determined to reignite this cultural gem, offering free screenings of Caribbean films every Thursday night at Julees Restaurant, located at the corner of Cross Street and Tanner Street in St. John’s. The screenings kicked off in September with the Caribbean classic ‘The Sweetest Mango,’ HaMafilms’ debut feature film, followed by other iconic titles like ‘The Harder They Come,’ ‘Home Again,’ and ‘Diablesse.’ Mitzi Allen, Managing Director of HaMafilms, emphasizes the importance of preserving Caribbean identity through film, stating, ‘We must help to preserve our uniqueness and our identity through film for generations to come.’ Julees Restaurant, known for its romantic and rustic ambiance, provides the perfect setting for these cultural gatherings. Proprietor Joseph Martin notes the enthusiastic response from attendees, who appreciate the unique atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with peers. Over the past three decades, HaMafilms, led by Director Howard Allen and Producer Mitzi Allen, has produced five feature films, numerous documentaries, and TV series, all aimed at celebrating and preserving Antiguan and Barbudan art and culture.