The Association of British Insurers (ABIA) has issued a stern public warning regarding the unauthorized and fraudulent use of its official logo in connection with an alleged investment scheme. The organization emphasized that it has no affiliation with the scheme and urged the public to exercise extreme caution. ABIA’s logo, a symbol of trust and credibility in the insurance industry, has reportedly been exploited by scammers to lend legitimacy to their fraudulent activities. The association has advised individuals to verify the authenticity of any investment opportunity claiming ABIA endorsement through official channels. This incident highlights the growing sophistication of financial scams and the need for heightened vigilance among consumers. ABIA has also committed to collaborating with law enforcement agencies to investigate and address this misuse of its brand identity.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Prime Minister Browne says Jamaica can bounce back bigger and better from Hurricane Melissa
Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has expressed unwavering solidarity with Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, drawing parallels to his nation’s recovery from Hurricane Irma in 2017. Speaking during a visit to affected areas in Westmoreland on November 17, Browne emphasized the resilience of Caribbean nations and the importance of unity in overcoming natural disasters.
Reflecting on Antigua and Barbuda’s experience with Hurricane Irma, which devastated the island of Barbuda, Browne highlighted the nation’s ability to rebuild stronger and better. He stressed that Jamaica, too, can emerge from this crisis with renewed strength.
Browne underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s tangible support for Jamaica, including the deployment of linesmen to assist with recovery efforts, a financial contribution to relief programs, and the planned dispatch of soldiers from the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.
Calling for international financial institutions to provide concessional financing for resilient reconstruction, Browne warned that the cost of inaction would be measured in lives and livelihoods. He urged Jamaica and the wider Caribbean to view rebuilding as an opportunity to create more robust and sustainable infrastructure.
“We are a small country, but our solidarity is mighty,” Browne declared, reaffirming his nation’s commitment to supporting Jamaica and advocating for resilient rebuilding across the Caribbean. His message was one of hope and perseverance, emphasizing the collective strength of Caribbean people in the face of adversity.
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Government to Rebuild Old Parliament Building as Standalone Family Court
In a significant move to enhance its judicial system, Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to repurpose its historic Parliament building into a dedicated Family Court. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams made the announcement during the Throne Speech on Thursday, emphasizing the project’s role in creating a specialized environment for handling sensitive family matters. The initiative, set to commence in 2026, aims to separate family cases from the general Magistrates’ Courts, ensuring a more focused and supportive setting for such proceedings. Sir Rodney highlighted that the restored building will serve as a flagship Family Court, setting a benchmark for the Eastern Caribbean region. This development is part of a broader justice-sector reform agenda, which includes expanding the Industrial Court, boosting legal drafting capabilities, and modernizing the Labour Code. These measures are designed to strengthen the rule of law and improve access to justice nationwide. Detailed plans for the reconstruction project are expected to be released in the coming months, marking a pivotal step in the country’s judicial modernization efforts.
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Mill Academy Celebrates Its 2nd Anniversary with the Theme: “Growing Stronger, Reaching Higher”
Mill Academy marked its second anniversary on November 17th, 2025, with a vibrant celebration that united students, teachers, parents, and community partners. The event, themed ‘Growing Stronger, Reaching Higher,’ highlighted the school’s growth, unity, and dedication to fostering well-rounded learners in a nurturing environment. Chaired by Ms. Paulette Edwards, the ceremony featured a series of inspiring presentations, including an opening prayer by Ms. Neketia Spencer and a poignant poem, ‘Two Years Strong,’ delivered by Mrs. Julia Nathaniel. Students showcased their talents through musical renditions, dance performances, and a dramatic presentation, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. Parent testimonials from Ms. Sasha Potter and Ms. Silvia Cozzi underscored the trust and transformative impact of the school community. Principal Kisma Panthier-Jn Pierre delivered a heartfelt address, reaffirming the Academy’s mission of love, structure, and holistic child development. Ms. Potter, the PTA President, also highlighted the success of the recent Independence Food Fair, which raised over EC$4,000 for campus improvements. As Mill Academy embarks on its third year, it remains committed to expanding programs, enhancing infrastructure, and strengthening partnerships with families.
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ABWU negotiates salary increase for Goddard Catering staff
Employees at Goddard Catering Group (GCG) are poised to receive a significant salary boost following successful negotiations between the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and GCG management. The agreement stipulates a six percent wage increase, to be implemented in annual increments of two percent over the next three years. This development marks a milestone in labor relations, particularly as the negotiations addressed two collective agreements simultaneously: one spanning July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022, and another covering July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025. Fernando Samuel, Senior Industrial Relations Officer, highlighted the unique nature of the talks, noting that the pandemic had disrupted discussions on the earlier agreement, leading to layoffs and severances. However, employees active between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, will receive an additional increment for that period. GCG General Manager Mario Colindres expressed pride in the outcome, describing the process as amicable and beneficial for both the company and its staff. He emphasized GCG’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the Union to enhance employee welfare. Arion Ryan, GCG’s Head of HR, praised the smooth negotiations, while shop steward Neople Browne acknowledged that the agreement addressed many employee concerns. The ABWU commended GCG management for their cooperative approach and looks forward to future discussions.
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Mexico’s Fatima Bosch crowned Miss Universe winner in glittering finale of scandal-hit pageant
In a dazzling conclusion to a competition marred by controversies, Mexico’s Fatima Bosch emerged victorious as the new Miss Universe. The grand finale, held amidst a backdrop of glitz and glamour, saw Bosch outshine contestants from across the globe, clinching the prestigious title. This year’s pageant, however, was not without its share of scandals, which had cast a shadow over the event. Despite the challenges, Bosch’s win has been celebrated as a moment of pride for Mexico, showcasing resilience and grace under pressure. The event, watched by millions worldwide, highlighted not only the beauty and poise of the contestants but also the enduring appeal of the Miss Universe pageant, even in turbulent times.
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Antigua and Barbuda Unveils Culinary Month 2026 at Exclusive U.S. Media Preview at the James Beard Foundation in New York City
Antigua and Barbuda has set the stage for its highly anticipated Culinary Month 2026 with an exclusive preview event hosted at the prestigious Platform by the James Beard Foundation in Manhattan’s Pier 57. The intimate gathering brought together elite U.S. media, culinary influencers, and industry leaders for a captivating introduction to the islands’ rich culinary heritage, innovative techniques, and vibrant flavors. The evening featured a meticulously curated multi-course dining experience led by three of Antigua and Barbuda’s most celebrated chefs: Chef Claude Lewis, Chef Kareem Roberts, and Chef Maurine Bowers, alongside special guest Chef Devan Rajkumar. The menu highlighted traditional Antiguan and Barbudan dishes reimagined with modern flair, including Salt Fish Croquettes, Steamed Grouper, and Rum-Soaked Banana Sponge Cake. Complementing the meal were bespoke cocktails crafted by mixologist Ralph John Emmerson, designed to evoke the islands’ warmth and vibrancy. Culinary Month 2026, scheduled for May 1–31, promises to be a month-long celebration of food, culture, and creativity, featuring Restaurant Week, the Caribbean Food Forum, and the FAB Festival. The event aims to position Antigua and Barbuda as a leading destination for Caribbean culinary tourism.
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Students Explore how unmanned drones are reshaping farm management
The third day of the CCRAF on the Road – MSB Project (Antigua & Barbuda Chapter) took place at the Greencastle Agricultural Station, where approximately 30 agricultural science students from Jennings Secondary, Antigua Grammar School (AGS), and St. Mary’s Secondary continued their exploration of cutting-edge agricultural practices. The day began with an engaging demonstration of drone technology led by Mr. Itejah Simmons. He showcased how unmanned aerial systems are revolutionizing farm management, covering topics such as aerial mapping, crop monitoring, identifying plant stress and disease hotspots, assessing water distribution, and using drones for rapid field diagnostics. The session emphasized how data collected from drones can enhance decision-making processes, offering students a glimpse into the future of precision farming, particularly in small-island contexts. The primary goal was to deepen students’ understanding of innovative agricultural applications that contribute to long-term food and nutrition security. In the afternoon, the focus shifted from high-tech to hands-on learning as students participated in a plant propagation workshop. Facilitated by Mr. Victor Harris, Station Manager, and Mr. Rennice Nicholas, Propagation Specialist, along with the Greencastle Agricultural Station staff, the workshop introduced students to essential plant propagation techniques. These included seed propagation, cuttings, air-layering, division, and the preparation of propagation media. Students practiced identifying suitable plant material, preparing cuttings correctly, and understanding the environmental conditions necessary for successful root development. The combination of digital agriculture (drones) and fundamental horticultural skills (propagation) provided students with a comprehensive understanding of how traditional knowledge and modern technology can work synergistically. By the end of the day, students had expanded their expertise in two critical areas of agriculture: precision technology and plant production fundamentals. The CCRAF initiative underscores the importance of integrating knowledge, practice, and innovation to cultivate the next generation of resilient agricultural leaders.
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LETTER- Malaka Parker: A Tried and Failed Experiment in Political Reinvention
The political scene in Antigua and Barbuda has been reignited with the return of Malaka Parker, a figure whose reentry into frontline politics has sparked widespread debate. However, her comeback is perceived less as a new beginning and more as a repetition of past failures. Parker’s political career has been characterized by grandiose claims and self-promotion, yet these have seldom translated into concrete achievements for the nation. Her reliance on rhetoric over results has left her credibility in question.
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Lewis Says Throne Speech “More of the Same,”
Richard Lewis, an opposition Member of Parliament, has sharply criticized this year’s Throne Speech, labeling it as predictable and politically selective. Speaking after the ceremony, Lewis expressed disappointment, stating that the speech failed to provide a balanced overview of Antigua and Barbuda’s development over the past two decades. He described the presentation as a routine recap of the current administration’s performance rather than a meaningful evaluation of the nation’s progress. Lewis argued that the speech disproportionately focused on the period from 2020 to 2025, while neglecting significant achievements attributed to the years when the United Progressive Party (UPP) was in power, particularly from 2004 to 2014. He emphasized that these years included milestones that contributed substantially to the country’s advancement. Lewis attributed the omission to the inherently political nature of Throne Speeches, where each administration traditionally highlights its preferred accomplishments. He acknowledged that while the document outlines the government’s priorities, a more substantive discussion will occur during the parliamentary debate on the national budget in December. Lewis also revealed his intention to address persistent social and infrastructural challenges, including education facilities, water supply, and village roads, which he believes demand urgent attention.