The Ministry of Works has initiated a widespread road repair campaign targeting several key areas, including Tyrell’s, Bathlodge, Clare Hall, and Golden Grove. This initiative aims to bolster road infrastructure in preparation for the impending rainy season. In Bathlodge, crews are currently engaged in base preparation, while patching teams are actively working in Clare Hall and Golden Grove. Officials have emphasized that these efforts are part of the ministry’s broader strategy to enhance community infrastructure and ensure safer, more reliable roadways. The ministry has also expressed appreciation for the recent favorable weather conditions, which have enabled the continuation of work following delays caused by earlier rainfall. This project underscores the government’s commitment to improving public infrastructure and addressing the needs of local communities.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Antigua Yacht Club Commodore Dr. Clarence Pilgrim Hails October Mini Dinghy Regatta Champions
The Antigua Yacht Club recently concluded its October Mini Dinghy Regatta, a vibrant event that highlighted the prowess of young sailors in various competitive classes. The regatta, part of the club’s youth sailing series, aims to nurture the next generation of skilled sailors. Among the standout performers were Shanoy Malone, who clinched victory in the Laser Class, and Tyden Jones, who emerged triumphant in the Optimist Class. The Optimist Class also saw Ruben Van Hest and Lluc Agusti securing second and third places, respectively. Commodore Dr. Clarence Pilgrim extended heartfelt congratulations to all participants, emphasizing their dedication and talent. Provisional results from the event are now accessible on the Antigua Yacht Club’s official website. The regatta not only showcased competitive spirit but also reinforced the club’s commitment to fostering young talent in sailing. Photos from the event, credited to Loraine Mitchell Gaillard, captured the excitement and determination of the participants.
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Antigua and Barbuda urges concrete financing reforms and quarterly accountability at OAS sustainable development meeting
At the 7th Regular Meeting of the Inter-American Committee on Sustainable Development (CIDS), held at the Organization of American States, Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders of Antigua and Barbuda delivered a compelling address on the urgent need for tailored financing mechanisms to support vulnerable nations. Emphasizing the practical challenges faced by small states, Sir Ronald highlighted the necessity of keeping electricity operational post-storms, ensuring educational facilities, rebuilding infrastructure, and maintaining fiscal space for essential services like healthcare and pensions. He criticized the inefficacy of vague promises and delayed funding, calling for concrete actions to address these critical issues. Sir Ronald outlined three immediate priorities: 1) Financing terms that align with risk, including standardized 30-year maturities, five-year grace periods, and automatic payment pauses post-disasters for high-vulnerability states. He advocated for the use of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) in determining access to grants and low-cost loans. 2) Transparent partner commitments, urging each partner to publicly declare their funding contributions for Caribbean projects by June 30, 2026, and to establish a dedicated fund for transport and basic services. 3) Quarterly public accountability reports from CIDS, tracking metrics such as coastal protection coverage, disaster recovery timelines, renewable energy adoption, and debt service ratios. Additionally, Sir Ronald proposed the creation of a small OAS project-preparation team focused on coastal defenses and water security, along with a public timeline webpage to monitor commitments and deadlines. Concluding his address, he stressed the importance of upfront resilience financing and the inclusion of loan repayment pauses during disasters as a standard loan condition.
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Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister Showcases Key Initiatives at OECS Council Meeting
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) held its 8th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs (COM:FA) on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly. The gathering, set against a backdrop of global geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, and climate crises, aimed to forge a unified strategy for the resilience and survival of small island developing states. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the critical nature of the Council’s work, stating that the region’s challenges demand swift, coordinated, and sustained action. He stressed that the Council’s deliberations are essential for shaping policies that directly impact the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of OECS Member States. Dr. Jules remarked, ‘In the face of turbulence, our mandate is clear: to safeguard resilience, defend sovereignty, and chart a sustainable future for our people. Our strength lies in solidarity and strategy.’ Hon. Frederick Stephenson, incoming Chair of the COM:FA and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, highlighted the importance of small states in the global community. He stated, ‘Our states, though modest in size, are indispensable voices in the global community. The seas are rising, but so too is our steadfastness. The challenges gather, but so too does our unity.’ The meeting saw the handover of the Chairmanship from Hon. Alva Baptiste of Saint Lucia to Hon. Frederick Stephenson. Ministers discussed a range of issues, including the reaffirmation of the region’s commitment to transforming Citizenship by Investment programmes, enhancing coordination ahead of COP30 in Brazil, and addressing Haiti’s crisis through humanitarian assistance and diplomacy. They also endorsed the expansion of the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme and supported the OECS Joint Embassies in Rabat as a cost-effective platform for advancing relations with Morocco and Africa. The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, emphasizing that the decisions taken were concrete steps to protect livelihoods, strengthen regional unity, and amplify the Caribbean voice on the global stage. A special virtual meeting will be convened before November 2025 to accelerate work on joint mission restructuring and consolidate progress on the Council’s commitments.
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Lions Club of Antigua Celebrates 57 Years of Service to the Nation
The Lions Club of Antigua is set to celebrate its 57th anniversary with a week-long series of events from October 10th to 18th, 2025. This milestone underscores the Club’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, community engagement, and wellness initiatives. Established on October 14th, 1968, the Lions Club of Antigua has been a pivotal force in addressing the needs of thousands of individuals and families across the island. As it enters its 57th year, the Club reaffirms its mission to empower volunteers, meet humanitarian needs, and foster peace and international understanding. The anniversary week will feature a diverse array of activities, including a church service and food distribution, media appearances, a mental health workshop, and a celebratory social gathering. Additionally, the Club will honor its longstanding members and extend its outreach to Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital, where it will install benches and initiate a backyard garden project. The Lions Club of Antigua invites the community to join in these celebrations and continue supporting its mission of service with integrity, humility, and compassion. For more details on the events and how to get involved, visit the Club’s social media pages and website.
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Average Pension Payments could reach EC$3,000 within a few years
In a remarkable development, average pension payments in Antigua and Barbuda have more than doubled in recent years, soaring from approximately EC$1,000 to around EC$2,100. According to David Mathias, Executive Director of the Social Security Board, this upward trajectory could see pensions reaching EC$3,000 within the next few years. This surge is attributed to higher contribution levels and the increasing longevity of retirees, which has placed greater strain on the fund’s resources. Mathias emphasized that each new retiree is contributing at higher rates but also drawing more from the system due to longer lifespans. While short-term contribution income remains stable, long-term liabilities are outpacing inflows, raising concerns about the fund’s sustainability. Traditional solutions, such as increasing contribution rates or raising the pensionable age, have been met with public resistance. To address this, the Social Security Board has pivoted toward generating income through strategic investments. A key initiative is the government-backed redevelopment of the Jolly Beach Resort, which will be financed by the government and later transferred to the Social Security Board as equity. This innovative approach allows the fund to benefit from dividends and hotel revenues without directly utilizing contributors’ money. Transparency is ensured through monthly and quarterly reporting to Cabinet, and an expanded investment committee comprising banking and valuation experts will oversee the process. The ultimate goal is to bolster the fund’s cash flow, build a sustainable reserve, and ensure timely pension payments even during economic downturns. This forward-thinking strategy aims to secure the financial stability of Antigua and Barbuda’s social security system for future generations.
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LIAT to Launch Santo Domingo Route in December
LIAT Air has announced the launch of a new route to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, starting December 12. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader strategy to revive its regional network and enhance connectivity across the Caribbean. The new service will provide a direct link between Antigua and Santo Domingo, with one-way fares beginning at US$348, inclusive of taxes. In a social media post on Monday, LIAT described Santo Domingo as a ‘vibrant cultural hub’ and urged travelers to secure their bookings early via the airline’s website or customer service line. The introduction of this route represents a significant milestone for LIAT 2020 as it continues to re-establish key regional connections and strengthen its presence in the Caribbean market. This move is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between the two destinations, offering travelers more options for exploring the region.
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Liberty Caribbean unveils 5G+ in Barbados!
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Liberty Caribbean, through its renowned brands Flow and Liberty Business, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by introducing the first 5G+ mobile network in Barbados. This historic launch positions the island at the forefront of next-generation mobile connectivity in the Caribbean region. The initial phase of the rollout connects 22 strategic sites across Barbados, with the company aiming to cover at least 50% of the population by the end of the year. Full nationwide coverage is expected by the close of 2026. Inge Smidts, Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Caribbean, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, ‘This marks a pivotal chapter in Barbados’ digital evolution. Launching commercial 5G+ not only underscores our leadership in digital infrastructure but also highlights Barbados as a hub for innovation, investment, and talent.’ Smidts further highlighted the transformative impact of 5G+ on everyday life, enabling students, entrepreneurs, and families to access advanced digital tools, real-time analytics, and seamless high-definition streaming. Desron Bynoe, Vice President and General Manager of Flow Barbados, elaborated on the enhanced capabilities of the 5G+ network, which will complement the existing 4G LTE infrastructure. He noted that users can expect faster download speeds, smoother video calls, uninterrupted streaming, and reliable connectivity in crowded areas. Bynoe also underscored the broader implications of 5G+ for public services, tourism, and commercial digitalization, describing it as a platform for a more connected and resilient Barbados. The official launch event took place at Flow’s Customer Experience Centre in Windsor Lodge, celebrating years of investment and collaboration with partners. Liberty Caribbean, a subsidiary of Liberty Latin America, operates in over 20 Caribbean markets, delivering broadband, mobile, video, and voice services. Its B2B division, Liberty Business, supports enterprises and governments with advanced connectivity, cloud, security, and data center solutions. With a legacy spanning 150 years, Liberty Caribbean remains committed to empowering communities through innovative and tailored technological solutions.
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Mother to Take Legal Action After 12-Year-Old Struck by Bus
A mother in Antigua is taking legal action against a bus driver who allegedly struck her 12-year-old daughter while the child was crossing Joseph Lane after school. The incident, which occurred as Jakanda Dominique stepped off the sidewalk, has left the young girl with significant injuries and unable to attend school. Witnesses reported that the bus was traveling at high speed when it hit Jakanda, throwing her several feet. A nearby coach intervened to prevent further harm as the girl fell. Jakanda sustained injuries to her leg and shoulder, with her leg still in a cast and ongoing pain. Her mother, Clevelander Christian, claims the driver attempted to flee the scene but was stopped by bystanders. Christian also alleges that the driver has not contacted the family or expressed any concern since the incident. The matter has been reported to the police, who are currently investigating. Christian has sought legal representation to pursue damages, describing the driver’s actions as reckless. She has called for increased caution among public transport operators, particularly during school dismissal times when children are more vulnerable on the roads.
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D’Angelo, R&B Grammy-award winning singer, dies aged 51
The music world mourns the loss of D’Angelo, the iconic R&B and neo-soul singer, who passed away at the age of 51 following a battle with cancer. Born Michael Eugene Archer, D’Angelo leaves behind a profound musical legacy that reshaped the landscape of contemporary soul. His family released a heartfelt statement, urging fans to celebrate his enduring gift of music rather than dwell on their grief. Known for his groundbreaking fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz, D’Angelo was a trailblazer in the neo-soul genre. His career spanned decades, marked by critically acclaimed albums and unforgettable performances. D’Angelo’s debut album, *Brown Sugar*, catapulted him to fame in the 1990s, while his 2000 masterpiece, *Voodoo*, solidified his status as a musical innovator. The latter earned him two Grammy Awards and was later ranked 28th on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest albums of all time. His 2014 release, *Black Messiah*, was a powerful response to social unrest, further cementing his relevance in both music and culture. Tributes poured in from fellow artists, including Doja Cat, Missy Elliott, and Jennifer Hudson, who hailed him as a “true original” and an inspiration to generations. Despite personal struggles, including battles with alcoholism and a near-fatal car crash in 2005, D’Angelo’s artistry remained unparalleled. At the time of his passing, he was reportedly working on his fourth album with producer Raphael Saadiq. His untimely death marks the end of an era, but his music will continue to resonate with fans worldwide.