Melissa Seaforth, a celebrated IFBB Pro Bikini Fitness athlete and ambassador from Antigua, has triumphed at the IFBB Pro Masters World Championships in Malta, clinching the Masters Bikini title. This victory marks a significant addition to her already impressive 2025 season. Seaforth, who recently garnered gold in the Bikini Pro Masters Division and silver in the Bikini Pro Open Division at the IFBB Pro Grand Gala in Italy, described the win as an emotional and career-defining moment. “Winning a World Championship title at the Masters level is a tremendous honor,” she remarked. “It’s not only a historic achievement for Antigua and Barbuda but also a pivotal milestone in my professional bodybuilding journey.” Seaforth outperformed competitors from Russia, Spain, and Poland, securing her place at the top. Her next challenge will be at the IFBB Pro Bikini Fitness World Championships in Spain, where she will make her sixth consecutive appearance. With a bronze medal from the IFBB Grand Prix PEPA PRO in the Czech Republic on October 25, Seaforth is also a strong contender for Antigua and Barbuda’s Sportswoman of the Year.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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OPINION: 90 Days Fix for VCBIA Impossible.
Antigua’s primary airport has been in a state of disarray since 2019, following a breakdown in relations within the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) and the abrupt departure of three successive CEOs. Attempts to fill the leadership void with accounting-trained personnel and other mismatched candidates proved futile, leaving the position vacant and the aviation hub in chaos. Over the past five years, seasoned aviators have witnessed a stark decline in standards, marked by the abandonment of rules, regulations, and transparency—the foundational pillars of aviation. Personal opinions have overshadowed International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, and deteriorating relationships with stakeholders have replaced civility with disrespect in airport operations. The government, in a desperate bid to restore order, has struggled to find competent management, often appointing junior, unqualified officers to roles beyond their expertise. Regional efforts have also failed, exacerbating the chaos in this rule-oriented industry. The loss of Category 1 classification for Antigua and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), coupled with the looming ICAO Audit in 2026, has forced the government to seek international assistance. An Antiguan-owned company based in Atlanta, renowned in the global aviation sector, has been engaged for a 90-day contract. Its president, a respected figure with extensive experience in the Caribbean and Latin America, has taken on the role of Interim CEO. However, given the magnitude of the crisis, 90 days is widely regarded as insufficient to address the deep-rooted issues. The government’s approach, driven by sovereignty rather than integrity, has raised questions about the feasibility of this short-term solution. The interim CEO, known for his patriotism, faces an uphill battle against time, further complicated by the government’s lack of respect for both his capabilities and the ABAA. The challenges at V.C. Bird International Airport (VCBIA) cannot be resolved in such a limited timeframe, underscoring the need for a more sustainable and strategic approach.
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Prime Minister Meets National Culinary Team Ahead of Taste of the Caribbean
In a gesture of national pride and encouragement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda met with the country’s National Culinary Team ahead of their participation in the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean competition. The event, set to take place from June 16 to 18 in Barbados, will bring together the region’s finest culinary talents. During the courtesy visit, described as both inspiring and honorable, Prime Minister Browne lauded the team’s dedication and urged them to showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s excellence and creativity on the regional stage. The team, organized under the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), aims to highlight the nation’s hospitality and culinary prowess. The ABHTA expressed deep appreciation for the Prime Minister’s motivational words, emphasizing that his support has bolstered the team’s determination to secure top honors and bring pride to their homeland.
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COMMENTARY: Eye on The Economy – Resilient Future
In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges, the concept of economic resilience has emerged as a cornerstone for sustainable development. The recent commentary titled ‘Eye on The Economy – Resilient Future’ delves into the critical strategies required to fortify economies against future uncertainties. The analysis underscores the importance of diversifying economic sectors, investing in innovation, and fostering robust public-private partnerships. By leveraging technological advancements and prioritizing green initiatives, nations can mitigate risks associated with climate change and geopolitical instability. Furthermore, the commentary highlights the role of adaptive policies in ensuring long-term economic stability. As the world navigates through complex economic landscapes, the emphasis on resilience is not merely a precautionary measure but a strategic imperative for fostering inclusive growth and prosperity.
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Antigua and Barbuda represented at High-Level side event at COP30 in Brazil
At the COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, Her Excellency Ruleta Camacho Thomas, Ambassador for Climate Change for Antigua and Barbuda, delivered a compelling address during a high-level side event titled ‘Building Climate Resilience through Debt Reform, Infrastructure Investment, and Private Sector Action.’ Representing the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, Ambassador Camacho Thomas emphasized the urgent need for systemic financial reforms to empower Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in achieving climate-resilient prosperity.
Ambassador Camacho Thomas underscored the existential threat posed by debt to SIDS, stating, ‘Debt is not a technical issue but an existential one for small island nations.’ Despite contributing less than one percent of global emissions, these nations are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts. ‘Every storm, hurricane, or drought forces us deeper into debt as we rebuild what climate disasters destroy,’ she explained. This cycle of debt and disaster has left over 40 percent of SIDS in or near debt distress, with many spending more on debt servicing than on essential sectors like health, education, or climate adaptation.
The Ambassador highlighted the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), a 10-year development strategy adopted by SIDS, which outlines a comprehensive framework to align debt reform, resilience, and sustainable growth. A cornerstone of ABAS is the Debt Sustainability Support Service (DSSS), a pillar of the Centre of Excellence for SIDS. The DSSS integrates debt reform, climate resilience, and access to finance, offering tools such as debt swaps, restructuring, and climate-contingent clauses to create fiscal space during disasters. It also promotes risk-layered protection systems through insurance and reserves, while channeling savings from debt relief into resilient infrastructure and climate-aligned growth.
Ambassador Camacho Thomas clarified that the DSSS is not a fund but a coordination mechanism connecting existing tools, institutions, and financial flows. ‘It transforms how the financial system treats vulnerable economies, ensuring financial flows align with climate-resilient development,’ she said. She stressed that debt sustainability and climate resilience are inseparable, and reforms like the DSSS are vital for SIDS to achieve resilient prosperity.
Antigua and Barbuda is collaborating with SIDS, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and fragile states to operationalize the DSSS, providing technical expertise, supporting fairer negotiations, and ensuring debt relief translates into tangible resilience investments. Ambassador Camacho Thomas called on development banks, donors, rating agencies, and private investors to prioritize climate finance for debt and resilience reform. ‘Resilience begins with fiscal and financial stability,’ she concluded. ‘The DSSS aligns debt reform with the fight for climate justice. For small islands, this is about survival, dignity, and the right to a sustainable future—achieved through fairness and reform, not charity.’
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UK halts some intelligence sharing with US over Caribbean drug boat strikes
The United Kingdom has reportedly ceased sharing intelligence with the United States regarding suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, citing concerns over the legality of US military strikes. According to CNN, the UK government has decided to withhold this information to avoid complicity in what it deems illegal actions. Since September, US strikes on these vessels have resulted in at least 70 fatalities. The UK, which controls several Caribbean territories, previously assisted the US in identifying suspect vessels for interception by the US Coast Guard. However, the UK has now stopped this cooperation, fearing that its intelligence might be used to target boats for lethal strikes. British officials believe these strikes violate international law, a view echoed by the UN’s human rights chief, Volker Türk, who labeled them as “extrajudicial killings.” The UK’s decision marks a significant departure from its closest ally and intelligence-sharing partner, reflecting growing skepticism over the US campaign’s legality. Canada, another key US ally, has also distanced itself from the policy, refusing to allow its intelligence to be used for targeting strikes. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has similarly suspended intelligence sharing with US agencies until the attacks cease. The Trump administration defends the strikes, arguing they are legal under the Law of Armed Conflict, but this stance has been challenged by international law experts and senior US defense officials, including Admiral Alvin Holsey, who questioned the strikes’ legality and offered to resign.
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NOTICE: Night works at Booby Alley
The Ministry of Works has issued a public advisory regarding scheduled night works in Booby Alley. The operations, set to take place tonight, will involve the use of heavy-duty equipment, necessitating heightened caution from the public. Motorists are specifically requested to comply with designated detours and follow all instructions provided by traffic control personnel. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of safety during these operations and appreciates the public’s cooperation in ensuring a smooth and secure process. Residents and commuters in the affected area are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly to minimize inconvenience.
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Design Phase Complete for UWI Five Islands Expansion as Saudi Development Team Visits Antigua
The ambitious expansion of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus has reached a pivotal milestone, with the design phase now officially concluded. Education Minister Daryl Matthew convened a crucial meeting on Tuesday with representatives from the Saudi Fund for Development, the government’s key development partner, to assess progress and outline the next steps. The meeting marked the beginning of a series of sessions involving the development team, project management team, government officials, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and momentum.
Detailed renderings for the dormitory buildings and sports complex have been finalized, and construction drawings are expected to be completed within weeks. Upon finalization, the project will be opened for international tender, paving the way for construction to commence. Notably, the relocation of the Five Islands Primary School, which must be moved to accommodate the campus expansion, is already underway.
The new campus is designed to be a beacon of modernity and sustainability, incorporating cutting-edge features such as solar panels, advanced water treatment systems, comprehensive IT integration, and accessibility enhancements. A standout component of the development is the establishment of the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, which aims to integrate computer science across various academic disciplines.
Minister Matthew expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, ‘This is a very modern campus with a forward-thinking curriculum. It has the potential to transform not only our nation but also the entire region. I am thrilled to witness this transformative development in my lifetime.’ The expansion is poised to significantly enhance educational infrastructure and opportunities in the region, marking a new era for higher education in the Caribbean.
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Police defend decision to deny UPP permission for political event
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has officially denied a request from the United Progressive Party (UPP) to conduct a whistle stop event in the Constituency of Rural East. The decision, announced on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, was based on a thorough evaluation of operational and security concerns, including the proposed timing, which overlapped with peak traffic periods and raised potential safety issues. Despite the denial, the Police Administration approved a motorcade event scheduled for Sunday, 16th November 2025, following a prior application by the UPP. Formal approval was communicated to the UPP General Secretary on Tuesday, 11th November 2025. Acting Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers emphasized the force’s commitment to maintaining public safety and order, stating that all decisions are guided by safety considerations and the efficient allocation of police resources. He called for continued cooperation from citizens and organizations to ensure a peaceful environment. The Police Administration reaffirmed its dedication to fairness, professionalism, and integrity in serving the citizens and residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Lehana Simon Elected to Regional Education Quality Board
Lehana Simon, a distinguished accreditation officer from Antigua and Barbuda, has been elected to the board of the Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE). Simon, who currently serves with the Antigua and Barbuda National Accreditation Board (ABNAB), will play a pivotal role in advancing higher education standards across the Caribbean region. Her appointment underscores her unwavering dedication to quality assurance and brings a wealth of expertise to the organization. CANQATE, established in 2004 and headquartered in Jamaica, serves as a collaborative platform for accreditation agencies, government entities, and tertiary institutions. Its mission is to foster mutual recognition of qualifications, promote international best practices, and enhance educational quality across the Caribbean. ABNAB has publicly commended Simon, emphasizing that her selection reflects her significant contributions to the field and her ability to drive meaningful progress in regional education.