Barbados is on the verge of making history as the smallest nation to achieve full membership in the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). This milestone was announced by Ryan Straughn, Minister in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, during a parliamentary debate on the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean Bill, 2025. Straughn emphasized that this move would significantly strengthen Barbados’ integration into the regional development finance framework. He compared the decision to joining a credit union, highlighting that it would grant Barbados enhanced access to CAF’s decision-making processes and funding mechanisms. Barbados initially joined CAF 14 years ago under the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) administration, which secured a US$200 million financing facility with a US$15 million subscription. However, the proposed legislative amendments aim to provide Barbados with more flexibility, especially in response to the evolving global financial landscape and the shifting policies of institutions like the World Bank, which has increasingly aligned with the current U.S. administration. Once finalized, this upgraded membership will not only bolster the government’s access to CAF financing but also create opportunities for private sector entities and individual Barbadians to benefit from the bank’s development programs and investment tools.
标签： Barbados
巴巴多斯
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TVET Council and BNSI sign landmark MOU
In a significant step toward transforming Barbados’ workforce development framework, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council and the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) have inked a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement, signed at the BNSI headquarters, aims to formally recognize the skills of BNSI member employees while bolstering the island’s quality infrastructure. The collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between competence and quality, offering workers new avenues for formal certification through the TVET Council’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme. PLAR enables individuals to earn qualifications by validating skills acquired through work experience, informal training, or other non-traditional learning methods. Fabian Scott, acting deputy director of BNSI, emphasized that the MOU is fundamentally about people, ensuring that Barbadians’ skills—whether gained on the job or in the classroom—are recognized, certified, and aligned with international standards. Under the agreement, BNSI members and their employees will enjoy discounted access to the PLAR programme, which awards National and Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (NVQs and CVQs) based on both formal education and real-world experience. This initiative aligns with the Government of Barbados’ objective to reduce the number of uncertified workers and enhance national productivity. Hadyn Rhynd, director of BNSI, highlighted the partnership’s role in safeguarding competence and boosting the global competitiveness of Barbadian industries. The MOU also paves the way for deeper collaboration in joint promotions, training, and strategic workforce planning. Henderson Eastmond, Executive Director of the TVET Council, stressed that the partnership extends beyond certification, focusing on building industries, saving foreign exchange, and addressing workforce needs strategically. A key innovation under the MOU is the planned establishment of Sector Skills Councils, industry-led bodies tasked with identifying skills gaps and guiding the development of relevant training and standards. BNSI’s diverse membership base is expected to play a crucial role in this initiative, with sectors like the Creative Industries (film and animation) and Health and Wellness already in focus. Eastmond described the partnership as forward-looking, aimed at creating a future-ready workforce that is competent, confident, and globally recognized. The MOU takes immediate effect and will remain in force for three years, with potential for renewal, marking a major stride in aligning Barbados’ skills development with international best practices and economic resilience.
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QEH ushers in new era with major technology upgrade
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Barbados has taken a monumental step towards modernizing its healthcare system with the arrival of its first shipment of advanced medical and IT equipment. This initiative, part of a €60 million (BDS$138 million) loan agreement between the Government of Barbados and the European Investment Bank (EIB), is being executed through the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). The upgrade aims to revolutionize hospital operations by introducing a fully integrated health information system, enabling doctors to access digital medical records instantly.
Neil Clark, CEO of QEH, described this as the most significant transformation the public healthcare system has witnessed since its inception. The initial batch includes hundreds of new ICT and medical devices such as computers, tablets, and diagnostic monitors. While these may not appear glamorous, Clark emphasized their critical role in maintaining a modern hospital’s functionality. The digitization of patient data is expected to streamline services, enhance decision-making, and foster seamless connectivity across all departments, from Accident & Emergency to outpatient clinics.
Giuseppe Mancinelli, UNOPS Deputy Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, lauded the partnership, highlighting its contribution to strengthening healthcare delivery and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. He noted that this initiative goes beyond mere equipment delivery, promising improved management, infrastructure, and efficiency that will directly benefit patient care. A second batch of equipment, featuring advanced surgical tools, medical furniture, servers, and displays, is already slated for procurement in the coming months.
Wayne Marshall, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, confirmed that the new equipment, valued at approximately US$736,000, is just one facet of a broader transformation supported by the EIB loan. Clark also outlined ongoing projects under QEH’s 2025-2028 strategy, which prioritizes ‘people, partnerships, and innovation.’ These include the commissioning of a new linear accelerator to expand cancer treatment options, the procurement of an MRI scanner to reduce waiting times, and upgrades to the rehabilitation centre.
Looking ahead, Clark highlighted the upcoming $400 million Enmore Development, which will feature a comprehensive cancer centre, state-of-the-art laboratories, and expanded patient facilities. He described this as a ‘once-in-a-generation investment’ that will redefine the future of healthcare in Barbados. ‘This is partnership in action,’ Clark remarked. ‘With every milestone, we move closer to delivering healthcare that is faster, safer, and truly world-class.’
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Holder named Abu Dhabi Knight Riders captain
Jason Holder, the renowned West Indies all-rounder, has been appointed as the new captain of the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for the 2025-26 edition of the International League T20 (ILT20). The 33-year-old Barbadian takes over the reins from fellow West Indian Sunil Narine, who previously led the team. Holder joined the franchise earlier this year and quickly established himself as a key player with his exceptional all-round performances. Despite the team’s disappointing finish at the bottom of the points table in the 2025 season, Holder emerged as a standout performer, taking 17 wickets and scoring 126 runs at an impressive strike rate of 180. Holder, a former West Indies captain, will now lead a star-studded squad that includes marquee players such as Andre Russell, Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Sherfane Rutherford, and Sunil Narine. His extensive T20 experience and leadership skills are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team, which has struggled in recent seasons. Under Narine’s captaincy, the Knight Riders managed only three wins in ten matches during the 2025 season, finishing last in the six-team tournament. The team also faced similar challenges in the 2023 and 2024 editions, ending both campaigns at the bottom of the table. The Knight Riders will kick off their ILT20 2025-26 season against the Sharjah Warriorz on December 3 in Sharjah.
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Brathwaite calls time on umpiring career
Gregory Brathwaite, the esteemed Barbadian cricket umpire, has officially announced his retirement from the international cricket scene, concluding a distinguished career that spanned over a decade. At 55, Brathwaite confirmed his decision last month, formally notifying the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) of his retirement, effective September 30.
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Windies recall Forde, Springer for T20Is
The West Indies cricket team has made strategic additions to their T20 International (T20I) squad ahead of their five-match series against New Zealand, commencing this Wednesday. All-rounders Matthew Forde and Shamar Springer have been called up to reinforce the team’s bowling attack, which has been hampered by injuries and unavailability of key players. The duo are the only new inclusions in the 15-member squad, which recently secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Bangladesh in their last T20I series. Forde, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury earlier this year, has successfully completed his rehabilitation and is set to make his return. Springer’s inclusion comes as a response to the absence of seam bowlers Ramon Simmons and Jediah Blades, both ruled out due to injuries, alongside the unavailability of fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph. In a notable move, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been omitted from the squad following a dip in form, attributed to technical issues with his bowling action. Motie will now work with specialists, including the Royals Sports Group, to address these concerns ahead of his participation in the SA20 tournament in December. The Cricket West Indies (CWI) has also announced the appointment of clinical psychologist Krisnan Hurdle as a mental skills and performance coach, a decision aimed at enhancing the players’ psychological resilience and focus. CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasized the importance of mental strength in elite cricket, stating that the addition of Hurdle aligns with global best practices and underscores the organization’s commitment to developing well-rounded athletes. The West Indies squad for the series includes Shai Hope as captain, alongside a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, as they aim to build momentum ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
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Gall Hill falls 3-2 to Deacons in PMC
In a gripping Round of 16 clash at the Prime Minister’s Cup, Gall Hill’s undefeated streak in the Premier League came to an end as they were narrowly defeated 3-2 by Deacons FC on Saturday evening. The match, filled with high-octane action, saw Deacons FC and Kickstart Rush secure their spots in the quarterfinals, joining Wotton FC and St Andrew Lions.
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Batters cash in with hundreds
The 2025 Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) Elite Division three-day competition’s Series 9 turned into a batting spectacle, with four players scoring centuries and another narrowly missing the milestone. The second day of play showcased exceptional performances across multiple matches, highlighting the dominance of batsmen in this round of the tournament. Shian Brathwaite of Empire set the tone on Day 1 with a stellar 148 against ESA Field Pickwick, while Joshua Morris of Wanderers followed suit with a commanding 106 against Sagicor Windward. Morris’s century, achieved off 141 balls, included 12 fours and a six, propelling Wanderers to a total of 275 for nine declared. Wanderers’ bowlers, led by Maxwell Lewis and Khomari Griffith, had earlier restricted Windward to 159, giving them a significant first-innings lead. Meanwhile, Wildey’s Joshua Dorne and Demetrius Richards stole the show with a 217-run partnership, scoring 127 and 100 respectively, to declare at 356/6 against Urgent Care Bayview Hospital YMPC. Zion Brathwaite of UWI remained unbeaten on 96, poised to reach his century on Day 3. In other matches, Empire’s spinners Jomel Warrican and Kobe Williams dismantled Pickwick’s batting lineup, while Akeem McCollin’s 70 guided Superb Blend Gladiola to a strong position against SigniaGlobe Financial BCA Youth. The tournament continues to deliver thrilling cricketing action, with batsmen taking center stage.
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Pelican Pirates power past Tikki Tacklers to reach quarterfinals
The Barbados Beach Soccer Championship 2025 witnessed a series of electrifying matches on Sunday, with teams showcasing their prowess on the sandy pitches of Browne’s Beach and setting the stage for the upcoming quarterfinals. The Pelican Pirates delivered a masterclass performance, crushing the Tikki Tacklers with an emphatic 8-0 victory. Shawn Jack emerged as a standout player, netting two goals in the ninth and 26th minutes, while Savion Hoyte, Decarlo Straker, Jerome Blackett, Shakia Grenville, Mani Cheltenham, and Kadane Jones each contributed to the dominant win. This commanding performance has positioned the Pelican Pirates as strong contenders for the title.
The Sunset Chasers also made their mark, overpowering Full Volley with a 7-1 triumph. Ozim Henderson and Tezan Phillips led the charge with two goals each, supported by Ormando McCloud, Cleon Culley, and Keron Bishop. Despite Rasheed Mayers’ consolation goal for Full Volley, the Sunset Chasers’ relentless attack proved too much to handle.
Sea Breeze continued their impressive run, securing a 6-1 victory over Tropical Twisters. Jamal Chandler set the tone with two early goals, followed by contributions from Ron Pile, Dario Haynes, Shaquille Griffith, and Jabari Brandford. Brandon Morris managed to score Tropical Twisters’ only goal, but it was insufficient to challenge Sea Breeze’s dominance.
The most thrilling match of the day saw Sundown Ballers narrowly defeat Sunshine United 7-6 in a high-scoring spectacle. Erick Joseph stole the show with four goals, while Mario Graham added two to seal the win. Despite Miguel Clarke’s hat-trick and Deondre Ward’s two goals for Sunshine United, the team fell short in a nail-biting finish.
Other notable results included Tropical Thunder’s 6-0 demolition of Wave Runners, Beach Blitzers’ 2-1 victory over Island Invincibles, Bajan Heat’s extra-time 3-2 win against Southern Rays, and Trident Spurs’ comfortable 4-1 triumph over Island Fusion. The quarterfinals, scheduled for next Sunday at Brandon’s Beach, promise to deliver more excitement and fierce competition.
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David can beat Goliath: How local taxis can out-smart Uber at its own game
The arrival of Uber in Barbados has ignited a familiar debate, echoing the company’s contentious entry into markets worldwide. Local taxi operators are expressing concerns over Uber’s fare estimates, which appear to undercut government-regulated tariffs. In a small, competitive market, even minor price differences can significantly impact livelihoods. The outcome hinges on regulatory decisions, enforcement, and whether Uber’s actual pricing aligns with its online estimates. Barbados, however, is no stranger to global competition, having navigated the entry of international brands in sectors like hospitality and fast food. The local fast-food chain Chefette, for instance, successfully adapted by enhancing its family-friendly offerings rather than engaging in price wars. Similarly, the Bridgetown Port Taxi Co-Op Society Ltd has launched Zail Barbados, a local app designed to innovate and compete with Uber. Rather than focusing solely on price, local operators are exploring strategies to enhance customer experience through mobile technology. By forming service clusters, operators can pool resources to develop shared platforms offering customer profiles, loyalty rewards, and feedback systems. Additionally, operators can design experience-driven rides, such as themed tours, to transform transportation into a memorable part of visitors’ stays. For those hesitant to adopt digital platforms, joining existing local services like pickUP Barbados or Zail offers a practical compromise. While Uber’s entry poses challenges, it also presents opportunities for local operators to evolve and differentiate themselves in a rapidly changing market.