The Wellness Initiative for Stronger Health (WISH) has voiced deep concern following two apparent suicide attempts in Freetown and Ottos, underscoring the urgent need for improved mental health services in Antigua and Barbuda. The organization highlighted significant gaps in healthcare coverage, particularly in mental wellness initiatives and outpatient services, which are essential for fostering a supportive environment for those in need. While acknowledging Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s renewed commitment to advancing the national mental health framework, WISH emphasized the critical importance of ensuring accessible, lifesaving care for individuals living with mental illnesses. During World Suicide Prevention Month in September, WISH reiterated the importance of community awareness, urging citizens to recognize warning signs and provide timely support to loved ones experiencing distress, loneliness, or helplessness. The organization also called on local media to adopt best practices in reporting on suicide, prioritizing empathy and compassion over sensationalism. WISH remains dedicated to advocating for mental wellbeing and expressed gratitude to its partners and supporters at local, regional, and international levels. The group’s efforts aim to address the systemic challenges in mental health care and promote a more inclusive and supportive society.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
-
Cobbs Cross Clinic Reopens After Years of Closure
The Cobbs Cross Clinic, a vital healthcare facility in St. Paul, Antigua and Barbuda, has officially reopened on October 6, 2025, after being closed for over two decades. The reopening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, and St. Paul MP E.P. Chet Greene. The clinic, which had been shut down in 2003 due to severe disrepair, has been fully rebuilt to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services to the communities of St. Paul’s, Falmouth, and English Harbour. Permanent Secretary for Primary Health Care, Stacey Gregg-Paige, emphasized that the reopening signifies a commitment to equitable and dignified healthcare. The clinic will offer a range of services including maternal and child care, immunizations, chronic disease management, family planning, wound care, and home visits. Minister Greene highlighted the event as a new chapter in healthcare for St. Paul, while Health Minister Joseph described it as historic, noting that it is the first time a parliamentarian has opened two clinics in one year. The government’s broader goal is to establish a robust primary healthcare network, with plans to introduce national health insurance legislation by early next year. The ceremony also featured cultural performances and a ribbon-cutting event, officially marking the clinic’s reopening.
-
Bishop Charlesworth Browne Escapes Frightening ATM Encounter
Bishop Charlesworth Browne, the prominent leader of the Christian Ministries Center, expressed gratitude to God following a harrowing incident at a Village Walk ATM on Sunday evening. The clergyman, who was unharmed but visibly shaken, recounted the events to Antigua.news, describing the encounter as ‘sobering.’
Browne revealed that he had stopped to make a deposit around 7:30 p.m., despite an uneasy feeling. Moments after completing his transaction, the ATM door was forcefully burst open by a young man who aggressively entered the space. Outside, two vehicles blocked Browne’s exit, and one individual fled the scene when the bishop reached for his phone.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns about ATM safety, particularly after dark. Browne urged residents to exercise caution and avoid using ATMs during nighttime hours, citing a surge in robbery reports across the area. ‘I thank God — it could have been worse. We need to be vigilant and watchful,’ he emphasized.
This alarming event has reignited calls for enhanced ATM security measures and greater community awareness during evening hours. Local authorities are being urged to address the growing issue of crime in public spaces, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.
-
Missing Barnes Hill Teen Found Safe and Reunited With Family
The Barnes Hill community in Antigua experienced a wave of relief on Monday as 15-year-old Dejahnique Charles, who had been reported missing, was safely located and reunited with her family. The teenager had disappeared on Saturday afternoon after leaving her home to attend the Mega Bounce event, sparking immediate concern among her family and friends. Her disappearance prompted an island-wide search effort, with relatives, neighbors, and local authorities mobilizing to find her. The search gained momentum through social media, where countless citizens shared posts and appeals for information. The collaborative effort culminated in her discovery, bringing the ordeal to a positive conclusion. Dejahnique’s family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the police and the community members who played a pivotal role in ensuring her safe return. This incident highlights the power of community solidarity and the effectiveness of social media in mobilizing resources during emergencies. While the details of her disappearance remain unclear, her safe return has been celebrated as a testament to collective action and vigilance.
-
Post-Mortem Conducted on Slain Businessman George “Charlie” Barnes
Authorities have confirmed the completion of a post-mortem examination on the body of George ‘Charlie’ Barnes, a prominent businessman who was tragically killed in Antigua and Barbuda. The examination, conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Petra Miller-Nanton on September 29, has yet to reveal its findings as the homicide investigation remains ongoing. Barnes, a 74-year-old gas station owner, was shot outside his home on Nugent Street, Ottos Newtown, on September 12. Reports suggest that an unidentified assailant approached him shortly after he arrived home and fired a fatal shot to his chest before fleeing the scene. The murder has sent shockwaves through the local community, where Barnes was highly regarded for his dedication and generosity. Investigators are actively pursuing multiple leads but have not yet established a motive for the crime. The public is urged to provide any relevant information by contacting the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).
-
Police Investigate Pit Bull Attack That Injured Cashew Hill Woman
A violent pit bull attack has left 27-year-old Shabo Nedwell from Cashew Hill hospitalized with severe injuries. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon while Nedwell was visiting relatives in Skerritt’s Pasture. According to reports, the attack began shortly after she entered the house, leaving her with deep bite wounds on both legs and a severely injured lip. Family members and neighbors rushed to her aid, restraining the dogs and ensuring she received immediate medical attention. Nedwell was transported to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where she remains in stable condition. Doctors have confirmed that her injuries, while serious, are not life-threatening. The incident has reignited public debate over the control of aggressive dog breeds and the responsibilities of pet owners to secure their animals. Police are currently investigating the attack, but no decisions have been made regarding the seizure of the dogs or potential charges. The case underscores the need for stricter regulations and awareness around the ownership of potentially dangerous pets.
-
Special notice of road works on Valley Road North
Residents and commuters in Antigua are advised to prepare for temporary disruptions as C.O. Williams (Antigua) Limited undertakes essential road repairs on Valley Road North. The maintenance work, scheduled to begin on Tuesday, 7 October 2025, will continue throughout the week, affecting the stretch from Jolly Harbour to Antigua State College. During this period, single-lane traffic will be enforced daily from 8 am to 6 pm, potentially causing delays and inconvenience. Motorists are urged to adhere to traffic signs and follow the guidance of flag persons to ensure smooth navigation. Two-way traffic will be restored each night to minimize disruption. The repairs are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project, a government initiative aimed at enhancing road quality across Antigua and Barbuda. C.O. Williams has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and encourages queries to be directed to their Project Office at 562-9573. This project underscores the government’s commitment to improving public infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.
-
Report Confirms Social Security Debt Increased $172M Under UPP, PM Says
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reignited political tensions by scrutinizing the financial legacy of the United Progressive Party (UPP) administration. During a recent episode of the ‘Browne and Browne Show’ on Pointe FM, Browne referenced an official report titled ‘Government Indebtedness 2004 to Present,’ prepared by the Director of Social Security and the Financial Secretary. The report revealed that government debt to the Antigua and Barbuda Social Security Board surged by approximately $172 million during the UPP’s tenure, escalating from $366 million in 2003 to $538 million by 2013. Browne emphasized that this increase contradicted former Finance Minister Harold Lovell’s assertion that the UPP never borrowed from the Social Security Board. Browne argued that the failure to make required contributions effectively constituted a form of borrowing, stating, ‘You didn’t borrow, but you did not pay your contribution. It’s a form of borrowing, because what you’re doing is getting funded by the arrears.’ Since assuming office, Browne’s administration has worked to reduce this debt through regular payments and an impending asset swap involving the Jolly Beach property, which is expected to further alleviate the government’s financial obligations. Browne framed the discussion as a contrast between ‘debt creation and debt resolution,’ defending his government’s efforts to stabilize the Social Security scheme. The revelations have sparked renewed debate over fiscal responsibility and political accountability in Antigua and Barbuda.
-
Single Lane Traffic on Valley Road North and Anchorage Road
The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the implementation of single-lane traffic on Valley Road North and Anchorage Road to facilitate critical infrastructure repairs. The temporary traffic arrangement, effective daily from 8:00 a.m., is part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project undertaken by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. On Valley Road North, the work includes road markings, drainage systems, headwalls, concrete swales, and asphalt repairs. Similarly, Anchorage Road will see the completion of road markings, drainage, and sidewalks. Flag persons will be stationed to guide motorists, ensuring safe passage amidst heavy-duty equipment operations. While the repairs may cause delays, all businesses in the area remain open. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and urges stakeholders to adjust their travel plans accordingly. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure for improved safety and efficiency.
-
There is a high chance of a tropical depression forming during the next few days
A significant weather disturbance is brewing in the tropical central Atlantic, with meteorologists predicting a high likelihood of a tropical depression forming in the coming days. As of 8:00 AM EDT on October 6, 2025, a broad area of low pressure associated with a low-latitude tropical wave has been observed, producing widespread disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Environmental conditions are favorable for gradual development, and the system is expected to move rapidly west-northwestward, potentially approaching the northern Leeward Islands by the end of the week. The National Hurricane Center has issued advisories, urging residents in the region to closely monitor the system’s progress. The probability of cyclone formation stands at 50% within the next 48 hours and increases to 70% over the next seven days. This developing weather event underscores the importance of preparedness as the Atlantic hurricane season remains active.