The Ministry of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), Utilities and Energy, in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has inaugurated a two-day workshop at the Trade Winds Hotel in Antigua and Barbuda. This event, focused on advancing digital financial services (DFS), aims to foster financial inclusion and digital transformation across the nation. The workshop has convened a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, technology experts, and financial institution representatives, to explore innovative strategies for leveraging digital platforms to enhance financial accessibility. Hon. Melford Nicholas, Minister of ICTs, inaugurated the event by underscoring the urgent need for digital innovation in both the public and private sectors. Cleveland Thomas, the ITU representative, highlighted the pivotal role of digital assets in promoting financial inclusion, particularly through initiatives like the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s D-Cash program. He emphasized that while over 2 billion adults globally remain unbanked, 1.6 billion possess mobile phones, presenting a unique opportunity to integrate them into the formal economy and drive economic growth. The workshop will delve into critical areas such as the formation of a National DFS Security Task Force, the dissemination of security standards, and a thorough evaluation of past initiatives aimed at strengthening the DFS ecosystem. Participants will collaborate to implement best practices and secure mobile payment systems. Minister Nicholas stressed the importance of adapting swiftly to the evolving digital landscape, especially in response to growing public demand. This workshop marks a significant milestone in creating an inclusive financial environment that supports vulnerable populations and bolsters regional economic development.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Antigua and Barbuda to Import Cheaper Food from Guyana Following Talks Between PM Browne and President Ali
Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to import fruits, vegetables, and other food products from Guyana in a strategic move to lower supermarket prices and enhance regional food security. The decision was revealed by Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday. This initiative stems from discussions between Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Guyanese President Irfaan Ali during the COP30 meeting in Belize. The Cabinet has tasked Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. with collaborating with his Guyanese counterpart to source high-quality agricultural goods for the Antiguan market. Merchant emphasized that nearly 90% of the nation’s food imports currently originate from North America, and this new partnership aims to provide equally high-quality produce at more affordable rates. The initiative is expected to help stabilize food prices once the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on essential items concludes. It also aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address the cost of living and ensure consumers continue to access affordable imports. Officials anticipate that the first shipments from Guyana could reach Antiguan supermarkets by early 2026, pending the finalization of logistics and trade agreements. This collaboration marks a significant step toward achieving CARICOM’s ’25 by 2025′ goal, which aims to reduce regional food import costs by 25% and foster stronger agricultural ties within the Caribbean Community.
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Consumers May Soon See Price Drops From Suspension Of CET on Essential Foods
In a significant move to alleviate the financial burden on households, the government has temporarily suspended the Common External Tariff (CET) on a wide range of essential food items. This decision, part of a CARICOM-wide initiative, aims to mitigate the effects of rising global food prices and provide immediate relief to consumers. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, announced during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday that the suspension is expected to lead to noticeable price reductions within weeks. However, he cautioned that the timeline could vary depending on how quickly supermarkets deplete their existing stock, typically taking one to two months for the changes to reflect on store shelves. The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division has been tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting back to Cabinet within 30 days to ensure that the price reductions are effectively passed on to shoppers. The list of items benefiting from the tariff suspension includes fresh vegetables, fruits, potatoes, carrots, peas, legumes, canned proteins like sardines and corned beef, infant foods, cereals, and cooking oils. Merchant emphasized that the measure will be fully implemented by January 1, pending the finalization of necessary documentation. Additionally, the government is considering expanding the list of zero-rated items and introducing complementary legislation early next year to restrict sugary drinks as part of a broader healthy-living campaign. The Gaston Browne administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of these policy interventions are directly felt by the people of Antigua and Barbuda, through lower prices and enhanced food security.
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Antigua Students to Participate in Groundbreaking OECS Student Census — A Global First
In a historic move, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is set to launch the first-ever region-wide Student Census on November 11, 2025. This groundbreaking initiative will enable students from kindergarten to Form 5 across the OECS to directly influence the future of education by sharing their authentic voices and experiences. Unlike traditional surveys or samples, this census will include every student, ensuring that no child’s perspective is overlooked. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, ‘Transformation begins with listening. This census gives every child the chance to be heard.’ Mrs. Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, highlighted the transformative potential of the census, noting that it will provide accurate, up-to-date data to shape policies that truly address students’ needs and aspirations. The census will also play a pivotal role in informing the new 10-Year OECS Education Sector Strategy (2027-2037), ensuring that it is grounded in the lived experiences of students. Parents, caregivers, and community members are encouraged to support the initiative by promoting student participation. The census will be conducted confidentially and securely, with all data anonymized to protect students’ privacy. By amplifying the voices of over 100,000 learners, the OECS Student Census aims to build more inclusive, equitable, and student-centered education systems across the region.
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National Clean-up Campaign Sees 13 Tons of Waste, 75 Vacant Lots Cleared
The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) launched its ‘Love Where You Live’ cleanup initiative in October, marking a significant step toward fostering cleaner and healthier communities. Spanning three weeks, the campaign focused on the Villa Area, encompassing Dickenson Bay Street, Anchorage Road, and Fort James Drive. Through meticulous efforts, the NSWMA team revitalized the neighborhood, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship.
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Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas Champions Caribbean Voices on Climate Mobility and Loss and Damage at COP30 in Brazil
At the COP30 Conference in Belém, Brazil, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador for Climate Change, Ruleta Camacho-Thomas, delivered a compelling address at a high-level event focused on Climate Mobility and Loss and Damage. Her speech shed light on the profound and multifaceted challenges faced by Caribbean communities due to climate-induced displacement. Ambassador Camacho-Thomas emphasized that the displacement caused by climate change extends beyond physical relocation, deeply affecting mental health, community cohesion, and cultural heritage. Drawing from Antigua and Barbuda’s experience with Hurricane Irma and Jamaica’s ongoing struggles after Hurricane Melissa, she illustrated how natural disasters can rapidly dismantle the social fabric of entire populations. The Ambassador stressed the urgent need for access to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, a critical resource to alleviate the human, economic, and cultural toll of displacement. She asserted that climate mobility is not a distant threat but a present reality reshaping Caribbean life. Ambassador Camacho-Thomas called for a collective response that prioritizes the protection of people, culture, and dignity. Her participation at COP30 highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in advocating for climate justice, equity, and resilience, particularly for small island developing states on the global stage.
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Josh Matthias Charged with Marrying Two Wives, Granted Bail
A 35-year-old man from Cassada Gardens, Josh Matthias, has been granted bail in a high-profile bigamy case. Matthias appeared before Magistrate Andrew Mighty earlier this week, where he was released on a $5,000 bail with no cash deposit required. The court imposed strict conditions for his release, including the provision of two sureties, the surrender of all travel documents, and a prohibition on contacting the alleged victim. Authorities claim that Matthias participated in a wedding ceremony with another woman at Fort James on April 9, 2025, despite still being legally married to his first wife. Following a thorough investigation, he was arrested and formally charged with bigamy. The case has been adjourned and is set to resume on December 17, 2025, as the legal proceedings continue.
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Antigua and Barbuda Successfully Host the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum
In a landmark event for the Caribbean tourism industry, Antigua and Barbuda successfully hosted the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum from October 25 to 29, 2025. This prestigious gathering, held at Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah All-Inclusive Resorts, marked the first time a travel industry forum of this scale was staged outside the United States. The event brought together 70 prominent U.S.-based leisure travel agency owners, collectively responsible for over $800 million in annual bookings, underscoring the Caribbean’s growing influence as a top destination for high-value travel experiences. Over four days, attendees participated in a dynamic agenda featuring B2B meetings, educational panels, networking events, and immersive destination experiences. These activities highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s rich culture, exceptional hospitality, and world-class tourism infrastructure. Key experiences included resort showcases, cultural excursions, and site visits at premier properties such as The Verandah Resort and Spa, Pineapple Beach Club Antigua, Hammock Cove Antigua, Royalton Resort and Spa, and Sandals Grande Antigua. The Forum also featured a lineup of industry thought leaders, including Shayla Northcutt of Northcutt Travel Agency, Jeff Ment of Ment Law Group, and Christopher Lingren of Wonderful Adventure Travel Group, who shared insights on topics ranging from business efficiency to legal considerations and the human side of travel. Dean Fenton, U.S. Director for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, ‘This Forum not only showcased our islands’ incredible hospitality but also positioned Antigua and Barbuda as a leading destination for global trade engagement and high-value travel experiences.’ The event’s success underscores the Caribbean’s rising prominence in the global travel industry and its ability to attract influential decision-makers shaping travel trends worldwide.
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Investigation Continues into Kahleel Simon’s Fatal Police Shooting
Authorities are intensifying their probe into the fatal police shooting of 18-year-old Kahleel Simon, who tragically lost his life on his birthday, August 27. Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers informed state media that law enforcement officials are meticulously collecting evidence and witness testimonies. A comprehensive file is being prepared for submission to the Magistrate, preceding a coroner’s inquest. Jeffers also confirmed that an autopsy on Simon’s body has been completed. The incident has ignited widespread community protests, with Simon’s relatives and local residents vehemently claiming that excessive force was employed and that he was not afforded an opportunity to comply before being shot. The case has raised significant concerns about police conduct and the use of force, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
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Rotary District Governor pays Courtesy Call to Governor General and Lady Williams
Mrs. Soraya A. J. Warner-Gustave, the Rotary District Governor of District 7030, which encompasses the Southern Caribbean and South America, recently made an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda. During her trip, she paid a courtesy call to His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Sandra Williams, the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary. The visit underscored the longstanding relationship between Rotary International and the twin-island nation. Sir Rodney warmly welcomed Mrs. Warner-Gustave and commended the Rotary Clubs for their impactful contributions, particularly in youth development, their support for the Sir Lester Bird Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, and their unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and peacebuilding. The District Governor also spotlighted the upcoming Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), set to take place in Antigua and Barbuda this weekend. The event will bring together over 150 regional participants and approximately 100 local Interact members for a three-day youth development workshop. Lady Sandra Williams, President of the Halo Foundation, extended an invitation to the Rotary team to continue their collaborative efforts, referencing past joint initiatives such as the ‘Meals on Wheels’ program. The Rotary Club of Antigua has enjoyed the patronage of Their Excellencies since 2014. Mrs. Warner-Gustave was accompanied by Assistant Governor Jonah Ormond, along with representatives from the Rotary Club of Antigua, including President Elisa Graham, and President Nicole Stevens of the Rotary Club of Antigua (Sundown).