标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Dr. Alafea Stevens elected president of Medical Association of Antigua and Barbuda

    Dr. Alafea Stevens elected president of Medical Association of Antigua and Barbuda

    The Medical Association of Antigua and Barbuda Inc. (MAAB) has reinstated Dr. Alafea Stevens as its president, marking her return to leadership after previously completing two consecutive terms. This election brings one of the nation’s most experienced emergency medicine specialists back to the helm of the professional medical body.

    Dr. Stevens brings over a decade of comprehensive expertise spanning clinical practice, healthcare administration, and professional leadership. She received her medical degree from the Latin American School of Medicine in Cuba (2010), followed by an internship through St. George’s University at St. George’s General Hospital in Grenada. She further specialized by earning a postgraduate diploma in emergency medicine from the University of the West Indies in Trinidad.

    Her clinical leadership was forged during her service as head of the Emergency Room Department at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Subsequently, she moved into national health policy, currently holding the position of senior medical officer within the Ministry of Health’s Medical Division. In this capacity, she has fulfilled the roles of both medical officer of health and deputy chief medical officer.

    Beyond her governmental duties, Dr. Stevens holds influential positions on multiple statutory boards, including the Antigua and Barbuda Pharmacy Council, the Medical Benefits Scheme Board, and the national Formulary Committee. Her longstanding involvement with MAAB includes serving as secretary-treasurer (2018-2020) prior to her initial presidency (2020-2024).

    Dr. Stevens maintains significant engagement in public health advocacy and community service. She is an honorary member of Antigua and Barbuda Breast Friends, supporting free breast cancer screening initiatives for over ten years. Regionally, she serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s country lead for the Howard University Caribbean Clinicians Community of Practice Project and contributes to the World Organization of Family Doctors’ working group for women and family medicine.

    Additionally, she represents the nation on Caribbean Medical TV, where she addresses common regional health issues and innovative solutions. Her exemplary service has been recognized through numerous MAAB awards honoring her contributions to medicine, volunteerism, community service, and professional leadership.

  • Zaine Frederick Crowned Miss St. John’s Rural West 2026

    Zaine Frederick Crowned Miss St. John’s Rural West 2026

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda — In a vibrant display of cultural celebration and community spirit, Zaine Frederick has been officially named Miss St. John’s Rural West 2026. The prestigious title was awarded following an engaging pageant event supported by Michael Joseph and prominently sponsored by the beverage brand Cool and Smooth.

    The competition showcased exceptional talent and civic dedication among participants, with Frederick ultimately claiming victory. Treviesha Adams secured the position of first runner-up, while Maydoria Smith earned second runner-up honors, all receiving enthusiastic applause from attendees.

    Event organizers emphasized that the pageant served as more than just a competition—it represented a powerful demonstration of unity and female empowerment within the constituency. Contestants were evaluated not only for their poise and presentation but also for their demonstrated commitment to community values and social responsibility.

    The successful execution of the event highlighted the importance of collaborative partnerships between local businesses, volunteers, and residents in preserving cultural traditions. Frederick now assumes her role as ambassador for St. John’s Rural West, carrying the crown and responsibilities that accompany her title throughout the coming year.

  • PM Calls on Banks to Play Bigger Role in Tourism-Led Growth

    PM Calls on Banks to Play Bigger Role in Tourism-Led Growth

    In a significant address to the nation’s financial leaders, the Prime Minister has issued a compelling directive for the banking industry to assume a more substantial and proactive role in catalyzing economic growth through tourism development. This strategic call to action positions financial institutions as pivotal partners in national economic strategy, moving beyond traditional lending into targeted sector investment.

    The government’s vision centers on establishing tourism as a primary economic engine, requiring sophisticated financial products and services tailored to hospitality infrastructure, small business development in tourist regions, and innovation within the travel sector. The Prime Minister emphasized that conventional banking approaches would be insufficient to meet the ambitious growth targets set by the administration.

    Key initiatives highlighted during the address included the development of specialized loan programs with favorable terms for tourism-related ventures, increased investment in destination marketing campaigns, and financial technology solutions to enhance the visitor experience. The banking sector was specifically encouraged to collaborate with tourism operators on digital payment systems, currency exchange services, and investment in sustainable tourism projects that align with environmental conservation goals.

    This policy direction reflects a growing recognition of tourism’s multiplier effect on national economies, where every dollar invested in tourism infrastructure generates significant returns across transportation, retail, and service industries. The Prime Minister’s appeal signals a new era of public-private partnership where financial institutions serve as active participants in economic diversification rather than passive facilitators of transactions.

    Industry analysts suggest this approach could revolutionize how developing economies leverage their natural and cultural assets for economic advancement, potentially creating a model for other nations seeking to maximize tourism’s economic potential through strategic financial sector engagement.

  • WATCH: Government Invests Up to $30M in Performing Arts Centre

    WATCH: Government Invests Up to $30M in Performing Arts Centre

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced a significant $30 million investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s national Performing Arts Centre during his Saturday appearance on the Browne and Browne show, revealing the project has entered its final development phase with September completion targets.

    The substantial cultural infrastructure project, funded through actual cash allocations already positioned at National Housing rather than theoretical commitments, represents a strategic pivot toward integrating artistic excellence with tourism development. Approximately $12 million has been deployed in recent months specifically for retrofitting the former Deluxe Cinema facility, with total investment projected to reach $25-30 million upon full completion.

    Beyond the main performance venue, the government plans to acquire an adjacent structure to establish a dedicated training facility for local artists. This comprehensive approach aims to elevate Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural footprint through overseas master classes and specialized artistic development programs.

    The initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to diversify tourism offerings beyond conventional beach attractions by embedding authentic cultural experiences, music, and performance arts into the visitor journey. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the center’s dual purpose: empowering local artists to compete effectively in regional and international markets while forging stronger connections between tourism revenue and creative industries.

    This cultural infrastructure investment positions the Performing Arts Centre as both an artistic hub and economic catalyst, designed to enhance the nation’s cultural prestige while creating sustainable opportunities for creative professionals.

  • LETTER: Alleged Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power at Luxury Hotel in Antigua

    LETTER: Alleged Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power at Luxury Hotel in Antigua

    The tranquil paradise of Antigua faces a brewing storm as grave allegations surface against a prominent luxury hotel, threatening to tarnish the island’s prestigious tourism reputation. A detailed letter, whose contents have begun circulating within hospitality and local communities, accuses a senior hotel executive of egregious sexual misconduct coupled with a blatant abuse of power.

    According to sources familiar with the matter, the accusations describe a pattern of predatory behavior where the individual allegedly leveraged their authoritative position to target multiple employees. The claims suggest the creation of a hostile work environment where subordinates felt pressured into compliance, with fears of professional retaliation silencing potential whistleblowers.

    The emergence of this letter has ignited urgent conversations about workplace safety and accountability within Antigua’s vital tourism sector. Industry watchdogs and human rights advocates are calling for an immediate, transparent investigation by both hotel ownership and Antiguan authorities. The case highlights the persistent power imbalances that can exist even within high-end hospitality environments, raising critical questions about protective measures for vulnerable workers.

    Local tourism representatives have expressed concern over the potential ramifications for Antigua’s international image as a premier travel destination, emphasizing that such serious allegations must be addressed with utmost seriousness to maintain stakeholder and visitor confidence. The situation remains developing as pressure mounts for an official response and thorough inquiry into the disturbing claims.

  • COMMENTARY: Does The Usa Really Care About Our Criteria For Accepting Deportees?

    COMMENTARY: Does The Usa Really Care About Our Criteria For Accepting Deportees?

    By Yves Ephraim

    A provocative analogy has emerged to characterize the response of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders to United States immigration pressures. The narrative depicts a scenario where a woman, confronted by an overpowering assailant in her own home, abandons resistance and instead negotiates the terms of her violation. This disturbing parallel serves as a metaphor for how regional governments are handling Washington’s insistence that they accept criminal deportees.

    The core issue centers on the perceived capitulation of Caribbean leadership. Rather than issuing flat refusals to accept deportees who may destabilize their societies, these nations have engaged in procedural negotiations. Grenada’s Prime Minister, for instance, has been praised by some commentators for establishing criteria regarding transportation costs and accommodation standards for deportees. The author vehemently rejects this perspective as dangerously naive.

    The fundamental power imbalance remains unaddressed: if Caribbean nations cannot refuse deportation requests outright, what guarantees exist that negotiated standards will be honored? The article argues that establishing conditions for acceptance while lacking ultimate refusal power constitutes self-deception. The author characterizes this as a sovereignty violation comparable to historical subjugation, noting that leaders have spun this dynamic as somehow representing regional control.

    Particular scorn is reserved for suggestions that Caribbean nations might selectively accept deportees who could contribute to national development. The piece dismisses this as fantastical thinking, emphasizing that recipient countries ultimately have no meaningful selection authority. The conclusion presents a damning assessment: Caribbean leaders have surrendered to inevitable domination while pretending to negotiate terms, embodying a tragic failure of political leadership and sovereign protection.

  • Prosecutors Signal Possible Withdrawal of Fatal Motorcycle Crash Case

    Prosecutors Signal Possible Withdrawal of Fatal Motorcycle Crash Case

    In a significant judicial development, prosecutors have indicated potential discontinuation of legal proceedings against Jameel Adams, a Bendals resident charged in connection with a tragic motorcycle accident that resulted in the death of 23-year-old Annik Lawrence in November 2022. The Director of Public Prosecutions formally notified the High Court on Thursday of the intention to potentially terminate the case, though no official withdrawal application has been submitted yet.

    The case centers on allegations of causing death by dangerous driving stemming from the November 14 incident along All Saints Road. According to official reports, the motorcycle operated by Adams allegedly lost control, ejecting both riders from the vehicle. Lawrence, who was traveling as a passenger, sustained fatal injuries and passed away shortly before her 24th birthday. Adams also suffered injuries in the crash.

    Nearly thirty months after the tragic event, the judicial process remains in limbo with no definitive timeline for resolution. The court proceedings have not disclosed the prosecution’s rationale for considering case abandonment, leaving fundamental questions unanswered about evidentiary challenges or procedural considerations influencing this potential outcome. The development represents another layer of tragedy for Lawrence’s family, who continue to await conclusive justice despite the passage of years since their loss.

  • WTP 93.5 FM Celebrates Four Years of Excellence

    WTP 93.5 FM Celebrates Four Years of Excellence

    St. Paul, Liberta – WTP 93.5 FM commemorates its fourth anniversary today, celebrating a journey of growth and connection since its inaugural broadcast in 2022. The station has evolved from a local broadcaster into a globally accessible media hub, renowned for its dedicated service and community-driven ethos.

    Founded on principles of collaboration and public service, WTP 93.5 FM has established itself as both a trusted news source and an entertainment platform. The anniversary underscores not just temporal achievement but the realization of a vision built on professional excellence and unwavering listener support.

    The station’s management extended profound appreciation to its multidisciplinary team—including producers, announcers, DJs, journalists, and technical staff—whose expertise and creativity have been instrumental in delivering high-quality, responsible content. Their collective effort has cemented WTP’s dual identity as a profitable enterprise and a cherished public institution.

    Equally acknowledged are the loyal listeners and digital subscribers who have integrated WTP into their daily lives through FM radio and online streaming. Their ongoing engagement and constructive feedback have fueled the station’s evolution and reinforced its mission to remain genuinely people-focused.

    Looking ahead, WTP 93.5 FM enters its fifth year with ambitious plans to become the nation’s leading radio station. This goal is buoyed by sustained community backing and a clear vision centered on authenticity and public service.

    The acronym WTP—We The People—encapsulates the station’s core philosophy: to operate as a voice for the community, a mirror of local culture, and a reliable companion in everyday life. As it moves forward, WTP reaffirms its pledge to prioritize community needs and foster meaningful dialogue through innovative programming.

  • Princess Margaret School Honours Long-Serving Principal Dr. Colin Greene on His Retirement

    Princess Margaret School Honours Long-Serving Principal Dr. Colin Greene on His Retirement

    Princess Margaret School commemorates the conclusion of a transformative era with the retirement of its longest-serving principal, Dr. Colin Everton Greene, following 23 years of dedicated service. The institution released an official statement honoring his profound contributions, characterizing his departure as both an emotional milestone and a celebration of an indelible legacy.

    Dr. Greene was eulogized as an institutional cornerstone who embodied strength, discipline, and unwavering determination. His mentorship transcended administrative duties, directly impacting multiple generations of students through his educational philosophy and personal guidance.

    School authorities attributed the institution’s evolution into a recognized beacon of academic excellence and opportunity to Dr. Greene’s visionary leadership. They emphasized that the core values he instilled—including integrity, perseverance, and excellence—remain deeply embedded in the school’s culture and将继续指导其未来发展.

    The statement acknowledged the community’s collective sentiment of loss while reframing his retirement not as an ending but as the perpetuation of his influence through the countless students and educators he inspired. His legacy, described as both immeasurable and enduring, will continue to resonate throughout the school community and beyond.

    In its final tribute, the school expressed profound gratitude “for 23 years of unwavering leadership and for producing outstanding men and women for the world,” cementing Dr. Greene’s status as an educational pioneer whose impact will endure for generations to come.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Rated ‘Largely Compliant’ in Global Forum Tax Transparency Peer Review

    Antigua and Barbuda Rated ‘Largely Compliant’ in Global Forum Tax Transparency Peer Review

    The Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes has released a new series of peer review assessments, evaluating five jurisdictions’ adherence to international tax transparency standards. The newly published reports cover Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Cabo Verde, Palau, and Seychelles, with two representing reassessments of previously reviewed nations.

    These evaluations, formally adopted by Global Forum members after December 2025 approval, demonstrate the continuing evolution of global tax transparency efforts. Benin, Cabo Verde, and Palau underwent Phase 1 reviews focusing exclusively on their legal and regulatory frameworks due to their limited practical experience with information exchange upon request (EOIR). All three jurisdictions were found to have generally adequate frameworks in place, though each requires specific improvements. Their Phase 2 reviews, assessing practical implementation, are scheduled to commence by 2028.

    Antigua and Barbuda and Seychelles received combined assessments evaluating both legal frameworks and practical implementation. Both jurisdictions earned an overall rating of ‘Largely Compliant’ with EOIR standards, reflecting significant progress since their previous evaluations.

    The broader context reveals encouraging trends: among 129 jurisdictions completing second-round EOIR peer reviews since 2016, 90% achieved ‘Compliant’ or ‘Largely Compliant’ ratings, while only 2% received ‘Non-Compliant’ designations.

    Jurisdiction-specific findings indicate substantial progress alongside ongoing challenges. Antigua and Barbuda demonstrated remarkable improvement through administrative dissolution of approximately 13,200 International Business Companies and voluntary dissolution of another 3,500 entities. The jurisdiction also enhanced accounting record availability by mandating local storage requirements.

    Benin’s assessment revealed a generally established legal framework despite deficiencies in beneficial ownership coverage and limitations in information access from anti-money laundering obliged entities.

    Cabo Verde’s framework was found generally adequate though hampered by professional secrecy provisions and incomplete beneficial ownership requirements.

    Palau’s framework requires enhancement regarding information availability, particularly concerning beneficial ownership documentation for entities without ongoing relationships with obligated persons.

    Seychelles showed significant progress since its 2020 review but must improve response rates for accounting information requests and strengthen supervision of nominee arrangements.

    The Global Forum continues to serve as the primary multilateral body ensuring global adherence to tax transparency standards through monitoring, peer review processes, and extensive capacity-building programs supporting effective cross-border information sharing.