The United Progressive Party (UPP) of Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the passing of Nathaniel ‘Nat Moses’ Francis, a revered former Member of Parliament for St. George. Francis, celebrated as a ‘living hero’ and a devoted public servant, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to his community and nation. His death signifies the end of an era for many who admired his contributions to public life and national development. In a heartfelt statement, the UPP expressed profound sorrow, extending condolences to his family, the party, and all who grieve his loss. Known affectionately as ‘The Smooth Golden Voice,’ Francis was not only a political figure but also a beloved broadcaster whose distinctive baritone voice became a cherished part of the national soundscape. His dual legacy in politics and broadcasting continues to inspire colleagues, constituents, and listeners across Antigua and Barbuda. The UPP honored his memory with a tribute image, celebrating his years of service and enduring impact. As the nation reflects on his life, Francis is remembered for his dedication, excellence, and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of many.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Global Gateway Forum: New value chains and new jobs in the Caribbean as the EU and Caribbean tackle the sargassum crisis together
For over a decade, Caribbean coasts have been plagued by extensive sargassum seaweed blooms, causing significant disruptions to fisheries, tourism, and local communities, and resulting in multi-million-dollar damages. However, through the European Union’s (EU) Global Gateway Investment Agenda, the EU, Team Europe, and Caribbean partners are now working to turn this environmental challenge into a source of cleaner coastlines, new employment opportunities, and a boost for local businesses. The third EU-Caribbean Global Gateway Conference on Sargassum, held recently, marked a pivotal shift from studies and pilot projects to actionable solutions. Governments, the private sector, academia, and international financiers convened to explore practical ways to transform sargassum into economic opportunities and improve its collection and management. European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, emphasized that the sargassum crisis, which has long harmed local livelihoods and the tourism sector, can now be a catalyst for job creation, innovation, and even clean energy across the region. At the conference, Grenada, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico pledged to collect and process a combined 660,000 tonnes of sargassum between 2026 and 2027. This initiative is the first step toward establishing a regional market for sargassum-based products, supported by EU investments and policy frameworks. The conference concluded with the announcement of the fourth EU-Caribbean Global Gateway Conference on Sargassum, set to take place in Mexico, ensuring continued momentum and scaling of operations across the region. The Global Gateway strategy, which aims to mobilize up to €300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, has prioritized sargassum since 2023, fostering collaboration among Caribbean partners to develop economically viable and environmentally sustainable solutions.
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High Surf Warning Issued for Antigua and Barbuda and Northern Leewards
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a High Surf Warning for several islands in the northern Leeward chain, including Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and St. Kitts and Nevis. The warning comes as hazardous marine conditions are expected to develop on Thursday, with seas forecast to rise over 10 feet (3 meters). Dangerous rip currents, coastal flooding, and beach erosion are likely, with conditions peaking from Thursday afternoon through early Friday, depending on the location. Forecaster Letitia Humphreys emphasized the risks and urged residents and visitors to avoid swimming on exposed northern and eastern coasts, stay clear of rocks and jetties, and use only sheltered beaches with lifeguards. Updates on the situation are available at antiguamet.com and through the Met Service’s official social media channels. The public is advised to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks during this period of heightened marine activity.
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Possibility of storm force winds from Jerry decreases for both Antigua and Barbuda
As of 5 p.m. AST, Tropical Storm Jerry continues to follow a forecast track that keeps its center passing north of the Leeward Islands, significantly reducing the threat to the region. The probability of sustained tropical-storm-force winds has decreased to 8% for Antigua and 31% for Barbuda, while the chance of hurricane-force winds is now near 0% for both islands. Other nearby islands face even lower risks. Jerry is currently located near latitude 14.8 North, longitude 54.7 West, moving west-northwest at 23 mph (37 km/h). This motion is expected to continue through Thursday, with a slower northwestward movement beginning Thursday night, followed by a northward shift by Friday night and Saturday. Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph (95 km/h), with gradual strengthening forecasted, potentially elevating Jerry to hurricane status later this week or weekend. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 175 miles (280 km) from the center, with a minimum central pressure of 1000 mb (29.53 inches). Hazards include possible tropical storm conditions in the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday, rainfall of 2 to 4 inches (with localized maxima up to 6 inches) across the Leeward Islands, British Virgin Islands, and U.S. Virgin Islands, posing a risk of flash flooding. Swells generated by Jerry are expected to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents in the Leeward and Windward Islands by Thursday, spreading westward to the Greater Antilles by Friday. Residents are advised to monitor updates from local weather offices and heed safety warnings.
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InterCaribbean Airways Cancels Flights To Antigua Ahead of Tropical Storm Jerry
October 8th, 2025 – As Tropical Storm Jerry continues its trajectory towards the Leeward Islands, interCaribbean Airways has announced the cancellation of several key flights to ensure passenger safety. The storm, which is currently being closely monitored by the airline, has already caused significant disruptions to travel plans across the region. Affected routes include JY792 and JY793 between Barbados and Antigua, as well as JY631 and JY632 connecting Tortola and Antigua. All flights scheduled for October 9th have been canceled. interCaribbean Airways has urged travelers to stay updated on the storm’s progress and to check for further announcements regarding rescheduled flights. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and efficient communication during this weather event. Meanwhile, residents and visitors in the Leeward Islands are advised to prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Storm Jerry, including heavy rainfall and strong winds.
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“This Win Is an Honour,” Says ABTA as Antigua and Barbuda Named Caribbean’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination 2025
In a landmark achievement, Antigua and Barbuda has been named the Caribbean’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination for 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards Caribbean and North America Gala Ceremony. This accolade marks the first time the twin-island nation has received this honor, solidifying its growing reputation as a hub for global events. The World Travel Awards, recognized as the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry, celebrates outstanding contributions across tourism, hospitality, and related sectors, with winners determined by industry professionals and consumers worldwide. Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Charles Fernandez, attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of government officials, tourism authorities, hotel partners, and destination management companies in enhancing the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The nation’s strategic focus on positioning itself as a premier destination for major events has been validated by this recognition. Recent high-profile conferences hosted by Antigua and Barbuda include the United Nations 4th International Conference of Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in May 2024, the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in May 2025, and the 55th General Assembly of the Organization of American States in June 2025. Looking ahead, the country is set to host the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2026, its largest international event to date, which will welcome His Majesty King Charles III and leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations. Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, emphasized the nation’s readiness to deliver exceptional service for event planners and delegates, citing seamless air connections, modern infrastructure, and diverse accommodation options. Known for its UNESCO-listed Nelson’s Dockyard, 365 pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural calendar, Antigua and Barbuda seamlessly blends business with unforgettable experiences. For more information, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com.
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2pm Update: Tropical Storm Jerry Strengthens as It Moves Toward the Leeward Islands
Tropical Storm Jerry is advancing westward across the Atlantic, with meteorologists predicting it could intensify into a hurricane by the weekend as it approaches the northern Leeward Islands. According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm’s center was located at latitude 14.3°N, longitude 53.7°W, approximately 680 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands, as of 2:00 p.m. Atlantic Standard Time (1800 UTC). Jerry is moving at a rapid pace of 23 mph (37 km/h), with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h). Forecasters anticipate gradual strengthening, potentially elevating Jerry to hurricane status in the coming days. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for several islands, including Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, St Barthelemy, St Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St Eustatius, and Guadeloupe. The storm’s center is expected to pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday, bringing 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) of rain, with isolated areas receiving up to 6 inches (15 cm). This heavy rainfall raises concerns of flash flooding, particularly in mountainous regions. Additionally, swells generated by Jerry are predicted to reach the Leeward and Windward Islands by Thursday, potentially causing life-threatening surf and rip currents. Residents are urged to stay informed and follow guidance from local meteorological offices. Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters are currently assessing the storm, while NOAA buoys have recorded winds of up to 47 mph (76 km/h) with higher gusts. The NHC will issue its next advisory at 5:00 p.m. AST.
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Woman Testifies Against Two Police Officers Over 2017 Rape Allegations
A woman has courageously taken the stand in the High Court to recount a harrowing incident in which she alleges two police officers sexually assaulted her in 2017. The trial, presided over by Justice Ann-Marie Smith and a jury of five women and four men, centers on the events of May 12 in Cooks. The complainant detailed how she had spent the evening with a WhatsApp group that included the defendants before getting into a vehicle with them. She testified that the officers drove her to a secluded area, threatened her with a gun, and subjected her to forced intercourse and other sexual acts. The woman further claimed that the officers warned her they would kill her if she reported the attack. After the alleged assault, she left the scene, visited a bar, and reported the incident to the police the following morning. Investigators later recovered a wrapper and condom from the location. The complainant also revealed that one of the officers sent her post-incident messages downplaying the encounter and suggesting it had been ‘planned’ within the group. During cross-examination, defense lawyers questioned the consistency of her testimony, particularly regarding whether the vehicle had stopped and her recollection of events, pointing to discrepancies with her initial police statement. The trial continues as the court seeks to uncover the truth behind these grave allegations.
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Judge Rebukes ABDF Hierarchy for Misleading the Court
The High Court of Antigua and Barbuda witnessed a dramatic turn of events today as Justice Rene Williams delivered a scathing rebuke to the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) for presenting false information in the case involving Captain Willock. The ABDF had erroneously claimed that Sergeant Manyakie Edwards, a key witness in the case, was in China when he was actually in the United States for military training. This misinformation led to an incorrect ruling against Captain Willock, who promptly alerted the court to the inaccuracy. Justice Williams condemned the ABDF’s actions, stating that they had brought the court into disrepute and undermined the integrity of the judicial process. The judge ordered the ABDF to pay $1,500 in costs to Willock within 21 days and an additional $300 to the Court Office within 7 days. In a surprising development, Willock, who had been representing himself, enlisted attorney Wendel Alexander to file an application requesting Justice Williams to recuse himself from the case. Alexander argued that the judge’s conduct could be perceived as biased by a fair-minded observer. The ABDF opposed the application, asserting that Justice Williams had acted impartially. The court has adjourned until February to review official transcripts and determine whether a full hearing on the recusal application is warranted. This case has sparked widespread public debate about accountability within the Defence Force and the delicate balance between military authority and judicial independence.
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Pastor admits defrauding victims of over $300,000
In a shocking breach of trust, Pastor Gavin Otto has admitted to orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that swindled individuals and businesses out of more than $300,000. Otto pleaded guilty to all 19 charges brought against him on Monday, which included six counts of fraudulent conversion and 13 counts of obtaining money by false pretenses. The crimes were committed between February 2021 and October 2022, and he is scheduled to be sentenced on November 7. The fraudulent conversion charges stem from cases where victims paid for steel and 40-foot shipping containers that were never delivered. One victim paid over $15,000 for a container that never arrived, while another paid $16,000 for two containers but received only one after Otto issued a bounced cheque. Other victims were deceived into paying for building materials or steel, receiving either partial deliveries or worthless cheques. Otto also cashed multiple cheques at gas stations and businesses that later bounced due to insufficient funds. In October 2022, police executed a search warrant at Otto’s home, where he was caught attempting to evade officers. During the search, receipts and cheque stubs were recovered, further incriminating him. The pastor now faces sentencing for defrauding victims and businesses of more than $300,000, marking a significant fall from grace for a man once trusted by his community.