Punta Gorda, a town in southern Belize, has inaugurated its first-ever Art Gallery and Museum, marking a significant milestone in the region’s cultural landscape. The new venue shines a spotlight on the artistic prowess of 22 indigenous women artisans, whose exquisite creations—ranging from clothing and baskets to jewelry and other handmade items—are now on display. These artisans recently graduated from the ‘Advanced Product Development and Design – Vocational Training for Indigenous Women Artisans in Southern Belize’ program, which has empowered them to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. The initiative was spearheaded through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration, the Home of Indigenous Arts Belize Limited, and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The gallery and museum are poised to become a vibrant cultural hub, attracting both locals and tourists while providing a sustainable platform for indigenous artists to showcase their work, earn income, and preserve Belize’s rich cultural heritage.
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BDF and Police Honoured for Service on National Service Day
The Ministry of the Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management has honored 51 members of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) and the Belize Police Department for their exceptional contributions to the annual National Service Day Wreath Laying Ceremony. The event, held on September 26, commemorated the life and enduring legacy of Belize’s founding father, the Right Honourable George Cadle Price. The ceremony recognized the officers’ unwavering support and dedication, culminating in a celebratory luncheon hosted at the Price Barracks Family Association Building. Ministers Henry Charles Usher and Oscar Mira personally served the awardees, expressing gratitude for their commitment to national service. Minister Usher highlighted the pivotal role of the security forces in the event, particularly the participation of the BDF band, which added a ceremonial touch to the proceedings. Among the honorees were individuals who recently completed the BDF’s Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Drill Course, as well as those who have actively supported National Service Day activities for over a decade. In his address, Minister Usher lauded the officers for their professionalism and deep sense of national pride. He also invoked the example of George Price, emphasizing his humility and lifelong dedication to service, which continues to inspire Belizeans across generations.
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Caye Caulker to Vote on Marijuana Industry Referendum
The residents of Caye Caulker are gearing up for a pivotal referendum on October 8, 2025, which will determine whether the government can establish a marijuana industry on the island. This vote has ignited intense discussions about the island’s future, particularly its reputation as a family-friendly tourist haven. The central question on the ballot is whether cannabis cultivation should be permitted, a proposal that has divided the community. Proponents argue that the move could stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities, while detractors fear it could disrupt the island’s tranquil, family-oriented ambiance and negatively impact tourism. Senator Luis Wade has publicly opposed the measure, cautioning that a marijuana industry could erode the island’s unique character. Celina Jimenez, a local resident spearheading the “No Campaign,” has warned that tourism groups bringing hundreds of visitors annually might cease their operations if cannabis is legalized. On the other side, Councillor Ilya Rosado, leading the “Yes Campaign,” has stressed the importance of education and transparency, urging residents to base their decisions on factual information. Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries, has called for mutual respect among voters, noting that cannabis possession has been legal in Belize since 2017. The referendum will solely determine whether regulations for cultivation should be established. The outcome of this vote is anticipated to significantly influence the future identity and economic trajectory of Caye Caulker.
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Antigua and Barbuda Youth Union Leaders Attend Regional Labour Forum in Brazil
Two prominent young leaders from the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) Youth Arm, President Blair Rose and Vice President Charles Browne, recently participated in the UNI Americas Youth Organizing Forum held in Brazil. The event, which took place on September 24–25, brought together trade unionists from across the Americas to discuss the future of labor movements in an evolving global landscape. The forum featured intensive training sessions, committee meetings, and strategic discussions on pressing issues such as worker recruitment, economic challenges, and the impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Additionally, global concerns including climate change and the concept of a ‘just transition’ for workers were central to the dialogue. Blair Rose, who also serves as Vice President of the UNI Americas Youth Committee, emphasized the forum’s role in equipping participants with tools to enhance union membership and advocacy efforts. She highlighted the importance of Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic environment, where union rights are actively upheld. The event concluded with a collective commitment from young leaders to foster resilient unions and strengthen regional networks in response to the rapidly changing world of work.
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Disasters and Crises in the Caribbean Region: A Review of Experiences in Seven Islands
The Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), in collaboration with UNESCO, has released a landmark report titled *Disasters and Crises in the Caribbean Region: A Review of Experiences in Seven Islands*. This comprehensive study delves into the critical role of communication and information management during disasters across Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The report underscores the Caribbean’s heightened vulnerability to natural and health crises, emphasizing the need for robust, culturally sensitive, and timely communication strategies to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. It highlights the indispensable role of local journalists in disseminating emergency information, exposing accountability issues, and amplifying community voices, despite often working under hazardous conditions with limited resources. The report also calls for targeted investments in resilient news infrastructure, trauma-informed training for journalists, and stronger partnerships between media, government, and humanitarian agencies. Kiran Maharaj, President of MIC, described the report as a ‘call to action’ for governments and international partners, stressing that strengthening communication infrastructure is essential for saving lives, preserving development gains, and sustaining democracy. Dr. Paul Hector of UNESCO echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for policy reforms and institutional investments to build a safer and more informed Caribbean. The full report is available on the MIC website and other platforms.
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FID amplifies public education to curb financial crimes
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Financial Investigations Division (FID) has announced a significant expansion of its nationwide public-education initiative aimed at raising awareness about financial crimes and their societal impact. Through a multi-platform approach, the FID is equipping citizens, businesses, and regulated sectors with essential knowledge to identify, prevent, and report illicit financial activities. Key components of the campaign include the radio series “FID in Action,” the audiovisual podcast “Follow The Money,” and a dedicated Money Mule Awareness program. These resources provide practical insights into how financial crimes operate, highlight warning signs, and outline steps for reporting suspicious behavior. Recent efforts have particularly targeted young professionals, the unemployed, and small business owners, cautioning them against allowing their identities, bank accounts, or businesses to be exploited for illegal fund transfers—a practice that could result in criminal charges under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Dennis Chung, FID’s chief technical director, emphasized the critical role of public education in Jamaica’s fight against financial crime. He stated, “By demystifying complex topics like scams, cyber-enabled fraud, and asset recovery, we empower Jamaicans to safeguard themselves and their enterprises.” The campaign complements the FID’s investigative and inter-agency efforts, aligning with its legal mandate to disseminate typologies and statistics that aid in crime prevention. New episodes of “FID in Action” air biweekly on Nationwide 90FM, while “Follow The Money” is released monthly on the FID’s YouTube channel and major podcast platforms. The “Money Mule” campaign further engages stakeholders through news stories, digital ads, and town hall meetings.
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Vybz Kartel earns fourth Billboard song entry on Travis Scott’s PBT
Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel has achieved his fourth Billboard charting song with ‘PBT,’ a collaboration featuring American rapper Travis Scott and South African singer Tyla. The track climbed from #23 to #18 on this week’s Billboard Rhythmic Airplay chart, marking its steady rise since its debut at #38 on August 16, 2025. Kartel’s previous Billboard entries include ‘Pon De Floor’ with Major Lazer, ‘Ramping Shop’ with Spice, and the gold-certified hit ‘Fever.’ ‘PBT’ is part of the 17-track ‘Jackboys 2’ compilation album, released on July 13 by Cactus Jack Records and Epic Records. The album, featuring artists like Future, Playboi Carti, and 21 Savage, topped the Billboard 200 with 232,000 album-equivalent units in its first week. Meanwhile, Sean Paul’s ‘Ginger’ holds steady at #14 on the Rhythmic Airplay chart, while Mariah Carey’s ‘Sugar Sweet’ slips to #32. On the Billboard Reggae Albums chart, Bumpin Uglies debuted at #7 with ‘Crawling Up the Wall,’ their sixth entry since their 2018 chart-topper ‘Beast from the East.’ Legendary acts like Bob Marley and the Wailers continue to dominate, with ‘Legend’ logging 298 non-consecutive weeks at #1. Regional charts also saw movement, with Khago’s ‘2 Time’ maintaining its #1 spot for a third week.
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BOJ holds key rate at 5.75 per cent in hawkish pause, defying market
The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) has decided to maintain its key interest rate at 5.75%, defying market expectations for a rate cut. This decision, announced by Governor Richard Byles, reflects the central bank’s focus on medium-term inflation risks and robust domestic demand, despite recent low inflation figures. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously agreed to hold the rate, emphasizing the importance of core inflation, which remains at 4.2%, within the target range. This core figure, which excludes volatile food and fuel prices, indicates persistent underlying price pressures, particularly in the services sector. The BOJ attributes the low headline inflation of 1.2% to temporary factors such as increased agricultural production post-Hurricane Beryl and reduced public transport fare impacts. The bank’s hawkish stance aims to manage domestic demand and anchor inflation expectations, supported by a tight labor market and elevated wage growth. The economy is projected to grow between 1% and 3% in fiscal year 2025/26, driven by expansions in Agriculture, Mining, and Tourism. External risks, including potential U.S. tariff increases and geopolitical tensions, also informed the BOJ’s cautious approach. The next policy decision is scheduled for November 20, 2025, allowing time for reassessment of economic data.
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Trelawny Parish Court Judge pronounced dead at Falmouth Public General Hospital
In a somber turn of events, Trelawny Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence was declared deceased on Tuesday evening at the Falmouth Public General Hospital. According to a reliable police source, Judge Lawrence was found unresponsive at her residence in Coral Spring, Trelawny, and was swiftly transported to the hospital around 7:50 PM. Preliminary investigations revealed no visible signs of physical trauma on her body, leaving the cause of her sudden demise shrouded in mystery. Upon arrival at the hospital, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force were observed managing the scene. Superintendent Velonique Campbell, Commander of the Trelawny Police Division, officially confirmed the judge’s passing but refrained from providing further details, stating, ‘It is still early days.’ The community and legal fraternity are left in shock, awaiting further clarity on the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
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No place for absenteeism, lateness
In a bold move to address long-standing issues of absenteeism and tardiness, Jamaican parliamentary leaders Robert Morgan and Phillip Paulwell have issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs) as the new legislative year begins. Morgan, the deputy leader of government business, and Paulwell, the leader of Opposition business, emphasized their shared commitment to punctuality and consistent attendance during a press briefing following the Opening Ceremony for the Orientation of MPs at Gordon House on Tuesday.