标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Homeless Man Charged with Breaking into Fashion Alert Store

    Homeless Man Charged with Breaking into Fashion Alert Store

    In a recent development in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, a 40-year-old homeless man, Gishaun Grigg, has been arrested and charged with breaking into a local store and committing larceny. The incident occurred at the Fashion Alert Store on Corn Alley on September 5, 2025. According to police reports, Grigg allegedly stole several items, including four Samsung A6 cellphones, two Alcatel cellphones, two kids’ tablets, twelve vapes, a carton of Raw, two cartons of Bamboo, a case of Blunt, two Hookahs, and an undisclosed amount of money. Following a thorough investigation, Grigg was apprehended and formally charged. He is now awaiting his court appearance to answer the charges. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has urged business owners to bolster their security measures and remain vigilant against suspicious activities in their premises. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of homelessness and crime in the region, prompting calls for enhanced community safety initiatives.

  • Ex-girlfriend accused of attacking car in Cassada Gardens

    Ex-girlfriend accused of attacking car in Cassada Gardens

    Authorities in Cassada Gardens are currently investigating a reported incident involving a man and his former girlfriend, who allegedly threw stones at his vehicle. The event occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 5, when two stones were purportedly hurled at a blue Toyota Yaris, causing damage to the car. Officers from the Criminal Investigations Department have interviewed both parties involved and conducted a thorough examination of the vehicle. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the altercation. The police have confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available. This incident highlights the importance of conflict resolution and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety.

  • Tropical Storm Jerry Strengthens as It Moves Toward the Leeward Islands

    Tropical Storm Jerry Strengthens as It Moves Toward the Leeward Islands

    Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly advancing west-northwest, with the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) closely monitoring its trajectory. As of 8 a.m. AST on Wednesday, the storm’s center was positioned near latitude 13.3 North and longitude 51.6 West, approximately 835 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. Jerry is moving at 23 mph, with maximum sustained winds nearing 50 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1003 millibars. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for multiple islands, including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and adjacent islands. Forecasters predict Jerry will strengthen into a hurricane by Thursday, with its core passing near or north of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 125 miles from the center, and rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches could trigger flash flooding, particularly in elevated areas. Swells generated by Jerry are expected to reach the Leeward and Windward Islands by Thursday, potentially causing life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Residents are urged to stay updated through their national meteorological services and adhere to official guidance. The NHC will issue its next full advisory at 11 a.m. AST.

  • BEFORE AND AFTER: MP Thanks Ministry of Works After Much Needed Repairs in Hatton

    BEFORE AND AFTER: MP Thanks Ministry of Works After Much Needed Repairs in Hatton

    Richard S. Lewis, Member of Parliament for St. John’s Rural West, has publicly commended the Ministry of Works and its road crew for their recent efforts in repairing a critical section of road in the Hatton area. The repairs, which address a long-standing issue, were completed following persistent advocacy by Lewis, who had previously used personal resources to provide temporary solutions for residents affected by the deteriorating infrastructure.

    In a statement, Lewis expressed his gratitude, highlighting the specific stretch of road west of Martin’s Shop leading to the Spanish Church of God of Prophecy. ‘The Ministry has delivered relief,’ he said, acknowledging the hard work of the crew and the positive impact of the repairs on the community. He also emphasized his commitment to continuing his advocacy for further infrastructure improvements across the constituency.

    The road repairs come after months of growing concern among residents about the poor conditions of roads in Hatton and surrounding areas. Lewis’ efforts to bring attention to the issue have been instrumental in securing the necessary government action. The completion of these repairs marks a significant step forward in addressing the community’s infrastructure needs and improving the quality of life for residents.

    Lewis concluded his statement by expressing optimism about future developments, stating, ‘We are indeed grateful for the roadworks done to date and look forward to continued relief throughout the constituency.’ His remarks underscore the importance of collaboration between elected officials and government agencies in addressing public concerns and delivering tangible results.

  • Greene Announces Plans for Eye and Dental Clinics in St. Paul

    Greene Announces Plans for Eye and Dental Clinics in St. Paul

    In a significant move to enhance healthcare accessibility, St. Paul MP and Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene has unveiled plans to construct new eye and dental clinics in his constituency. The announcement was made during the reopening ceremony of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, which had been closed since 2003. Greene emphasized that the government is in the process of acquiring adjacent land to support this ambitious project, aimed at bringing specialized healthcare services closer to residents of St. Paul, English Harbour, Falmouth, Cobbs Cross, and Piccadilly.

    The planned facilities are part of a broader initiative to decentralize healthcare, ensuring that residents in southern Antigua have easier access to diagnostic and preventive services. Greene highlighted that the new clinics will complement the fully modernized Cobbs Cross primary health facility, which has been upgraded to meet contemporary healthcare standards. He described the project as a testament to the government’s long-term investment in the well-being of local communities.

    ‘This investment is for the people,’ Greene stated. ‘We are committed to expanding the quality of healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that every community has access to the services it deserves.’ The St. Paul MP also praised the Ministries of Health and Works for their collaborative efforts in completing the Cobbs Cross Clinic, adding that the upcoming eye and dental centers will further the government’s focus on improving both preventive and specialized healthcare across the constituency.

    The initiative underscores the government’s dedication to addressing healthcare disparities and enhancing the quality of life for residents in underserved areas. With the construction of these new facilities, Greene assured the community that ‘the best is yet to come,’ signaling a brighter future for healthcare in the region.

  • Antigua and Barbuda youth urged to apply for Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust, 100 Young Leaders Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda youth urged to apply for Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust, 100 Young Leaders Awards

    The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) has unveiled the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards, a distinguished initiative designed to commemorate the centenary of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, which would have been celebrated in April 2026. This program aims to identify and honor 100 exceptional young leaders from the 56 Commonwealth nations who are driving transformative change in their communities across key areas such as education and employability, health, environment, food and agriculture, and inclusion.

    Selected awardees will be celebrated at an official ceremony and will have the opportunity to apply for microgrants to scale their impactful initiatives. Additionally, they will benefit from personalized mentorship, capacity-building support, and global exposure through international media coverage. The program also offers unparalleled networking opportunities with funders, partners, and experts across the Commonwealth, fostering a vibrant community of changemakers.

    Eligibility for the awards requires applicants to be aged between 18 and 35 (born between April 1990 and April 2008), and they must be founders, co-founders, or leaders of social impact initiatives. Applicants must also be citizens or permanent residents of a Commonwealth country, demonstrate at least 12 months of measurable impact, and align with QECT’s ethical and transparent values. Applications must be submitted in English.

    Eligible individuals from Antigua and Barbuda are encouraged to apply before the deadline on November 1, 2025. For further details and to submit an application, visit the official portal at https://airtable.com/appTh6DkNvnDGCqb8/pagabE7jMU0iizFbb/form.

  • PM: Antigua and Barbuda Has Rebuilt 17 of 23 Clinics Nationwide

    PM: Antigua and Barbuda Has Rebuilt 17 of 23 Clinics Nationwide

    COBBS CROSS, Antigua — October 6, 2025 — Antigua and Barbuda has made significant strides in its national healthcare infrastructure program, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne announcing the completion of rebuilding or repairing 17 out of the country’s 23 community health clinics. The announcement came during the reopening of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, a facility that had been closed for over two decades. This marks a pivotal moment in the government’s efforts to modernize healthcare access across the nation. Speaking at the event, Browne praised the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Public Works, emphasizing the importance of restoring essential services in underserved areas. The Cobbs Cross Clinic will now offer a range of services, including maternal and child care, immunizations, chronic disease management, and family planning. Browne highlighted that the government’s strategy focuses on creating a sustainable and modern healthcare system that ensures every citizen has access to dignified care. He also reaffirmed the commitment to completing the remaining six clinics, which will bring the primary healthcare network to full capacity. This progress aligns with broader initiatives such as the upcoming National Health Insurance program and expanded diagnostic services at the community level. The Prime Minister’s remarks underscored the administration’s dedication to equipping each clinic with adequate staffing and resources to deliver reliable, community-based care. “We are building a healthcare system that is not temporary or improvised,” Browne stated. “It is sustainable, modern, and designed to serve every citizen with dignity.”

  • TS Jerry forecast to become a hurricane soon, watches in place for Antigua and Barbuda

    TS Jerry forecast to become a hurricane soon, watches in place for Antigua and Barbuda

    Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly advancing toward the northern Leeward Islands, posing significant threats of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous surf conditions. As of 500 AM AST on October 8, 2025, the storm was located near latitude 13.3 North, longitude 50.7 West, approximately 890 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. With maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a current movement of 23 mph (37 km/h) toward the west-northwest, Jerry is expected to strengthen and potentially escalate into a hurricane by Thursday. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for several islands, including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Guadeloupe. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor the storm’s progress closely. Forecasters predict that Jerry will bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated regions. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated as swells generated by the storm reach the islands. The next advisory will be issued at 800 AM AST, with a comprehensive update at 1100 AM AST. Authorities urge residents to prepare for potential impacts and heed safety warnings.

  • Sir Molwyn: Government to Table National Health Insurance Bill in Early 2026

    Sir Molwyn: Government to Table National Health Insurance Bill in Early 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Health Minister, Sir Molwyn Joseph, has announced plans to introduce national health insurance legislation in Parliament during the first quarter of 2026. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward universal healthcare coverage. Speaking at the reopening of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, Sir Molwyn emphasized that consultations with the University of the West Indies on the design of the scheme have been finalized, setting the stage for its implementation. ‘By the first quarter of next year, we’ll have legislation before Parliament to establish a national health insurance,’ he stated. ‘Our policy ensures that healthcare is accessible to every citizen, regardless of their financial status.’ The announcement is part of a broader government effort to enhance healthcare delivery, including the renovation of 17 out of the nation’s 23 clinics and the modernization of diagnostic capabilities at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Sir Molwyn highlighted that the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to equitable healthcare access and reducing financial barriers for low-income families. The upcoming legislation will complement ongoing reforms in primary healthcare and the revitalization of community clinics, such as the recently reopened Cobbs Cross facility.

  • PM Browne: One or two offshore banks may end up being placed under liquidation

    PM Browne: One or two offshore banks may end up being placed under liquidation

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has revealed that one or two offshore banks in the country may face liquidation due to persistent difficulties in maintaining correspondent banking relationships. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne highlighted that these institutions have struggled to secure or retain international correspondent partners, which are essential for processing cross-border transactions. This challenge has been exacerbated by increasingly stringent global banking regulations. Browne emphasized that the issue is not isolated to Antigua and Barbuda but is part of a broader trend affecting small financial centers worldwide, a phenomenon often referred to as ‘de-risking.’ The government is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) to safeguard depositors and ensure compliance with international standards. Despite these challenges, Browne reassured that the domestic banking system remains stable, with local banks maintaining robust correspondent relationships and strong liquidity positions. The prime minister reiterated the country’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its financial sector while navigating these global pressures.