The Barbados Sugar Industries Limited (BSIL) is actively seeking a new investor following the breakdown of the government’s divestment agreement with the Barbados Sustainable Energy Co-operative Society Limited (Co-op Energy). BSIL Chairman Mark Sealy expressed concerns over the financial challenges faced by farmers, who have already invested heavily in equipment, land, and sugarcane cultivation. Sealy emphasized that the farmers lack the substantial capital required to upgrade the sole remaining sugar factory and manage government-run agricultural land. He dismissed rumors of farmers having significant financial resources, stating that their cash flow is severely depleted. The government recently terminated a March 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Co-op Energy, which aimed to transfer the Barbados Agricultural Management Company’s (BAMC) sugar portfolio into two co-operative-run entities. Despite the setback, Sealy highlighted the critical role of the sugar industry in Barbados’ economy, tourism, and food security, particularly in producing molasses for high-end rums and maintaining the island’s aesthetics. He assured that the industry has continued to operate smoothly without Co-op Energy’s involvement and stressed that Barbados cannot afford to abandon the sugar industry, as it would lead to significant environmental and economic consequences.
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New scholarships to boost youth careers in construction, auto repair
Barbadian youth aspiring to build careers in construction and automotive repair have received a significant boost with the introduction of over $4,000 in new scholarships. This initiative stems from two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and local industry leaders Nirvana Construction Inc. and Automotive Art. The agreements, formalized on Tuesday at SJPI’s Wildey campus, aim to provide targeted financial support to students enrolled in masonry and motor vehicle engineering programmes. Nirvana Construction has pledged a $500 scholarship for students from Parkinson Memorial Secondary School entering the Certificate in Masonry programme. Eligible applicants must be Barbadian citizens aged 16 to 18 and submit a recommendation from a school official or coach. Steven Hinds, Managing Director of Nirvana Construction and an SJPI alumnus, emphasized the company’s dedication to youth development and the skilled trades. “We are big on young people. Being in the construction industry, we decided that we need to advance our skilled artisans,” he stated. Meanwhile, Automotive Art will award ten $400 scholarships to continuing students in the Motor Vehicle Engineering Technology and Vehicle Body Repair programmes. Jamon White, General Manager of Automotive Art, described the initiative as a small yet impactful investment in the nation’s future workforce. SJPI Principal Ian Drakes expressed enthusiasm for the partnerships, highlighting their role in making technical and vocational education more accessible. “These are exciting times, and they continue with corporate Barbados entrusting us to keep our technical vocational education going in a very positive and dynamic way,” Drakes remarked. These scholarships align with broader national efforts to attract and qualify more young Barbadians in skilled trades, particularly in construction and auto care. For further details, interested individuals can visit www.sjpi.edu.bb or contact SJPI Guidance Officer Shawna Carter at 246-836-7687. Applications close on September 30.
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Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne have jointly nominated Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic as the island’s second president. Political analyst Peter Wickham interprets this consensus as a strong endorsement of Bostic’s credibility and impartiality, transcending political divides. Wickham emphasized that Thorne’s agreement to the nomination reflects confidence in Bostic’s ability to serve without conflict, avoiding a parliamentary vote that would have been a mere formality given the government’s majority. Bostic, a former Member of Parliament and Minister of Health and Wellness, gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wickham dismissed concerns about Bostic’s political background, noting that he has fulfilled the required cooling-off period from politics and is widely respected. However, retired lecturer Dr. George Belle downplayed the significance of the nomination, stating that it adheres to constitutional norms and reflects the reality of selecting politically affiliated individuals for such roles. Belle emphasized that the process, supported by both the prime minister and opposition leader, follows established protocols and will proceed to parliamentary affirmation. While some view the nomination as a positive step toward unity, others see it as a routine constitutional procedure.
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Bostic speaks on nomination
Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic, the nominated President of Barbados, is set to bring his pandemic-era mantra of “no retreat, no surrender” into a ceremonial role devoid of executive power. While Bostic refrained from elaborating on his nomination until parliamentary ratification, he emphasized that the mantra, which became synonymous with his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, remains a core part of his identity. “That is within me, that comes from within me, that is something that will remain with me,” Bostic told Barbados TODAY on Wednesday. He expressed elation at the nomination, stating, “I am indeed elated at the nomination to become the second president of Barbados,” but stressed the importance of respecting the parliamentary process. Bostic, who received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2022, highlighted his eagerness to serve the nation once more, pending ratification. The retired military officer, who became the public face of Barbados’ pandemic response, is set to succeed Dame Sandra Mason as Head of State on Independence Day. His leadership during the crisis, marked by a military-style focus, earned him national honours and widespread respect. Bostic, a former Cabinet Minister, is expected to receive full approval during a joint parliamentary session on October 7. His nomination was announced in Parliament by Deputy Speaker Neil Rowe, following correspondence from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne. Bostic’s career spans military service, including as director of operations at the Regional Security System, and political representation of The City of Bridgetown.
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Dominica marks World Patient Safety Day with renewed commitment to newborn and child Health
On World Patient Safety Day 2025, Dominica’s Minister of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, Hon. Kassani Laville, delivered a compelling address urging citizens to prioritize patient safety as both a personal and national responsibility. Aligning with the global theme, “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child,” and the slogan “Patient Safety from the Start,” Minister Laville emphasized that safeguarding the health of Dominica’s youngest citizens begins even before birth. “Patient safety does not begin halfway through life,” Laville asserted. “It begins at birth—and I may argue, even before birth. Every clean hand, every sterile surface, and every mindful action honors that promise.”
Since its inception at the 72nd World Health Assembly in 2019, World Patient Safety Day has underscored the critical need to prevent harm in healthcare settings. Laville revealed that between 2020 and 2024, Dominica recorded over 3,100 live births, with more than 1,100 neonates requiring specialized hospital care. Notably, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) achieved remarkable milestones, including the survival of three premature infants born at just 25 weeks gestation.
Sister Juliana Darroux, Ward Sister of the Stronach Ward, reinforced the Minister’s message, highlighting the maternity unit’s role in managing high-risk pregnancies and ensuring safe deliveries. “Efficient antenatal care is a prerequisite for newborn safety,” she stated, “allowing early identification and intervention for risk factors that affect fetal well-being.”
The Dominica Hospitals Authority has implemented a robust safety framework to protect newborns and maintain high standards of care. Key measures include secure ID bands for proper newborn identification, rigorous infection prevention protocols, breastfeeding support, timely immunization, and safe clinical practices such as immediate skin-to-skin contact and delayed cord clamping. Family involvement is also encouraged through rooming-in, education on safe sleeping practices, and emotional support for caregivers.
Minister Laville commended the Infection Prevention and Control Department, led by Nurse Blez, and the Winston Ward pediatric team for their dedication to child health. “Every child deserves a safe beginning,” Laville affirmed. “Every family deserves confidence in the care they receive. And every healthcare worker deserves the tools and support to deliver quality outcomes.”
The Ministry and the Dominica Hospitals Authority pledged to continue enhancing safety measures across all levels of care. In his closing remarks, Laville called on communities to complement institutional efforts, stating, “Let us ensure our children are equipped with the skills, virtues, and compassion to become productive citizens of Dominica.”
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IGNITE 2025: The Must-Attend Summit for Caribbean Founders and Investors
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago – September 18, 2025 – Caribbean Dragons, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering innovation and investment across the Caribbean and Latin America, is gearing up to host its flagship event, IGNITE 2025. Scheduled from October 13 to October 15, 2025, at the Central Bank Auditorium in Port-of-Spain, this summit is poised to be a pivotal gathering for startups, investors, and industry leaders.
IGNITE 2025 is not just another conference; it’s a platform where transformative deals are made. Andrew Seepersad, Head of Strategy & Operations at Caribbean Dragons, emphasizes the event’s significance: ‘The biggest challenge for early-stage founders is access to key resources such as capital, mentorship, and the right networks. IGNITE 2025 brings them all together in one place.’
Last year’s summit marked a turning point for Caribbean startups, thanks to a strategic partnership with the British High Commission, which opened doors for founders aiming to scale internationally. The Investors’ Workshop attracted major financiers, many of whom are now exploring regional ventures as part of their alternative portfolios.
This year’s lineup includes high-profile speakers such as Marcus Dantus, a Shark at Shark Tank Mexico and founder of Startup Mexico. The summit will delve into critical topics like building regional capacity, exploring high-value opportunity areas such as FinTech and HealthTech, and sharing success stories from local and international founders.
Seepersad highlights the broader mission: ‘Caribbean startups face capital constraints and scalability hurdles. IGNITE is about building investor confidence and ensuring founders can effectively navigate international markets.’ Looking ahead, Caribbean Dragons plans to expand IGNITE across the region, with Jamaica or Guyana as potential hosts as early as 2026.
With over 100 startups expected to attend, corporate sponsors from finance, tech, and hospitality sectors, and a growing global audience, IGNITE 2025 is set to be the birthplace of the next big Caribbean entrepreneurship success story. For tickets and more details, visit www.caribbeandragons.org/ignite.
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Two injured in separate shooting incidents on St. Kitts and Nevis
In a concerning escalation of gun-related violence, two separate shooting incidents occurred on September 18, 2025, in St. Kitts and Nevis, leaving two men injured. Authorities have launched investigations into both cases, which add to a growing trend of ‘Shooting with Intent’ incidents across the Federation. The first incident took place in the Newcastle area of Nevis, near the Combermere Pre-School, where a man was shot and subsequently hospitalized. Shortly thereafter, a second shooting was reported in Halfway Tree, where another man suffered a gunshot wound to his hand. Police have not disclosed the identities of the victims. This year alone, 15 such incidents have been recorded, with 12 occurring on St. Kitts and three on Nevis. The rise in gun violence has raised alarms among local communities and law enforcement, prompting calls for increased measures to address the issue.
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Urgent need to prevent military aggression against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
The Revolutionary Government of Cuba has issued a strong condemnation of the United States’ escalating military actions in the Caribbean Sea, which it claims are aimed at justifying aggression against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The Cuban government asserts that the U.S. has been amassing military resources and personnel in the region, engaging in unlawful attacks on civilian vessels, and detaining ships in violation of international norms. These actions, Cuba argues, demonstrate a hostile and irresponsible approach by the U.S. government. Additionally, Cuba accuses the U.S. of employing psychological warfare tactics to legitimize its operations, falsely portraying Venezuela as a threat to U.S. national security and citizen welfare. The Cuban statement highlights that key U.S. political figures, including the Secretary of State, congressmen, and senators, are complicit in this escalation, drawing parallels to their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Cuba warns that the true U.S. objective is to seize control of Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and natural resources. The deployment of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean is seen as a deliberate provocation, potentially triggering a military conflict that would force Venezuela to defend its sovereignty. Cuba emphasizes that such aggression would have devastating consequences for regional peace, stability, and security, urging the international community to mobilize against these actions. The statement calls for adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, stressing the need to separate fact from fiction. Cuba reaffirms its commitment to preserving Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, as declared by regional leaders. Havana, September 18, 2025.
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Cuba honore un grand homme
Cuba bid a solemn farewell to one of its most dedicated revolutionaries, Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, in a state funeral held on Tuesday. The ceremony, marked by profound emotions and tributes, saw the attendance of Cuba’s highest leadership, including General Raúl Castro Ruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel. The event took place at the Council of Ministers’ headquarters, where a small urn containing Cabrisas’ ashes was placed, surrounded by white floral wreaths. The first wreath was dedicated by General Raúl Castro, who had previously extended his heartfelt condolences to the family. Other floral tributes were presented on behalf of President Díaz-Canel, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, the Communist Party of Cuba, the National Assembly of People’s Power, the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment (Mincex). President Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Marrero Cruz expressed their sympathies to Cabrisas’ family, joined by other high-ranking officials, including Vice Prime Minister Ramiro Valdés Menéndez. Vice Prime Minister Inés María Chapman Waugh, visibly moved, praised Cabrisas as a “great man, a great fighter, and a great revolutionary,” emphasizing his unwavering dedication to solving the nation’s challenges. The first guard of honor was formed by President Díaz-Canel, National Assembly President Esteban Lazo, Prime Minister Marrero Cruz, and Roberto Morales Ojeda, Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee of the Party. The funeral underscored Cabrisas’ significant contributions to Cuba’s revolutionary legacy and his enduring impact on the nation.
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What could Cuba have done if the blockade hadn’t existed?
On September 18, 2025, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla presented a comprehensive report detailing the devastating effects of the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba. The report, covering the period from March 2024 to February 2025, revealed that the damages during this phase alone exceeded $7.556 billion, marking a 49% increase compared to the previous period. This surge is attributed to intensified measures aimed at crippling Cuba’s economy. Over six decades, the cumulative damage has reached a staggering $170.677 billion, equivalent to $2.103 trillion when adjusted for gold prices to account for dollar fluctuations. Rodríguez Parrilla emphasized that the blockade has inflicted profound emotional and economic suffering on Cuban families, with over 80% of the population born under its constraints. The policy has severely hindered access to advanced technologies, medicines, and essential supplies, exacerbating challenges in healthcare, transportation, and communications. The Cuban Foreign Minister also highlighted the U.S. government’s role in exacerbating migration flows, resulting in a loss of $2.57 billion in qualified personnel and workforce. He condemned the politically motivated measures, including Cuba’s inclusion on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and the enforcement of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, as violations of international law. Rodríguez Parrilla called on the international community to mobilize in defense of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, reaffirming Cuba’s resilience and commitment to its constitutional order and socialist principles.