标签： Antigua and Barbuda

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has warmly congratulated Michael Joseph, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY), for being named the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025. The prestigious award was presented during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held in St. Kitts, where Joseph was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability. The OECS lauded Joseph as a trailblazer, particularly for his use of advanced technologies such as spray drones, water-saving systems, and natural farming methods, which have significantly modernized food production across the Eastern Caribbean. Joseph’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and creativity. He shared how he began his agricultural career by walking four miles daily to his farm and using recycled plastic bottles for irrigation. His innovative practices, including no-till methods and sustainable farming techniques, have enabled him to produce twice the average yield per acre compared to traditional farms. His two spray drones have reduced labor, water, and chemical use by over 50%, while enhancing efficiency and crop coverage. The OECS emphasized that Joseph’s success highlights the critical role of young people in developing climate-smart and resilient food systems in the Caribbean. His achievements demonstrate how innovation and sustainability can work together to secure the region’s agricultural future. The Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2025, which concluded on October 4, featured technical sessions, policy dialogues, and exhibitions focused on food security, climate-smart agriculture, and regional cooperation.

In a high-profile case at the High Court, a man accused of rape has been acquitted following a four-hour deliberation by a mixed jury. The case, which originated from an alleged incident on 30 March 2020, centered on conflicting testimonies. The complainant alleged that she was assaulted after becoming intoxicated during a night out, while resting in a vehicle. However, the accused’s girlfriend, who was present at the time, testified that no such assault occurred. Prosecutors argued that a subsequent sexual encounter was non-consensual, but the defense countered that it was consensual. During the trial, inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements, including the timing of a text message she claimed to have sent that night, were highlighted. After hearing closing arguments, the jury unanimously found the defendant not guilty of both rape and serious indecency. The verdict has sparked discussions about the complexities of such cases and the challenges in establishing consent and credibility.

Two individuals implicated in a violent altercation at Sanderson Estate earlier this month have been granted bail as they await further court proceedings. Brian Benjamin, 59, from All Saints, and Bryan Benjamin, 32, from Swetes, appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, who scheduled the next hearing for December 4, 2025. The charges against them stem from an incident on October 1, where a farm dispute escalated into a shooting, leaving two men with gunshot wounds. Both Benjamins face charges of assault, wounding, and battery against Jace Farrell. Additionally, Brian Benjamin is charged with shooting with intent to murder Simon Farrell, while Bryan Benjamin is accused of using threatening language. The injured men are currently hospitalized in stable condition. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and have urged the public to resolve disputes through legal and non-violent means.

Residents of Hatton in St. John’s Rural West are breathing a sigh of relief following the completion of critical road repairs in the area. Richard S. Lewis, Member of Parliament for the constituency, has publicly expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Works and its dedicated road crew for their efforts in addressing the long-standing issue. The repairs, which targeted a section of road west of Martin’s Shop leading to the Spanish Church of God of Prophecy, have been a focal point of community concern for months. Lewis revealed that he had previously utilized his own resources to provide temporary solutions for the deteriorating road conditions. However, after persistent advocacy earlier this year, the Ministry of Works fulfilled its commitment to undertake the necessary repairs. In a heartfelt statement, Lewis commended the Ministry and its crew, stating, ‘The Ministry has delivered relief. We are indeed grateful for the roadworks done to date and look forward to continued relief throughout the constituency.’ The MP also pledged to continue pushing for further infrastructure improvements across St. John’s Rural West, emphasizing the importance of sustained development for the well-being of the community.

In a significant development in Antigua and Barbuda, 19-year-old Elahim Bloodman, who was wanted in connection with an attempted robbery at a local convenience store, voluntarily surrendered to the police on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. Bloodman, a resident of Grays Farm, turned himself in at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) accompanied by family members. He is currently in police custody, aiding investigators with their ongoing inquiries.

The incident occurred earlier that morning at approximately 9:54 a.m., when a lone male entered the store allegedly armed with what appeared to be a firearm. The store owner promptly raised an alarm, prompting the suspect to flee the scene on foot along New Street. The swift response from the public and media played a crucial role in the investigation, leading to Bloodman’s eventual surrender.

The Police Administration has expressed gratitude to the community and media for their cooperation and assistance during the investigation. Authorities have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals by contacting the CID at 462-3913, 911, or the nearest police station.

This case highlights the importance of community involvement in maintaining public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing criminal activities. The police continue to emphasize the need for collective vigilance to prevent such incidents in the future.

A Christian organization in Antigua and Barbuda, known as Christians United, is organizing a protest to demand the removal of a statue they claim contradicts biblical teachings. The demonstration, scheduled for Saturday, 11 October, will take place outside Glorious Hope Ministries on All Saints Road under the slogan “The Statue Must Come Down.” The group asserts that the statue promotes idolatry, which they argue is explicitly condemned in scriptures such as Hosea 4:6 and Exodus 20:4–5. Organizers emphasize that the protest is a faith-based initiative aimed at upholding “truth and obedience to God’s word,” rather than a political statement. The event has sparked broader conversations about religious symbolism, cultural identity, and freedom of belief in the region. Local authorities have not yet issued a response regarding the planned protest.

The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mr. Winston Gomes, a former Commissioner who served the organization with unwavering dedication and integrity from 2002 to 2009. Mr. Gomes was one of the first five members appointed to the Commission during a transformative era in the nation’s electoral history. His tenure was characterized by professionalism, astute judgment, and a profound commitment to public service. Mr. Gomes played a pivotal role in upholding the credibility and impartiality of the electoral process, earning widespread respect and admiration from colleagues, stakeholders, and the broader community. Chairman Ambassador Arthur G.B. Thomas, on behalf of the Commission, the Supervisor of Elections, and the entire staff, extended heartfelt condolences to Mr. Gomes’ family and loved ones. His legacy of service and dedication to democratic principles will continue to inspire future generations.