标签： Barbados

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has issued a compelling call to regional governments, urging them to prioritize disability inclusion in their development agendas. Speaking at the Caribbean Disability Conference held at the Wyndham Grand Barbados in St Philip, CDB President Daniel Best emphasized that systemic barriers continue to marginalize people with disabilities, despite increasing public awareness. The four-day conference, attended by policymakers, advocates, and individuals with disabilities, aims to bolster inclusion efforts across the Caribbean. Best highlighted the findings of a 2025 regional disability assessment report, which underscored the pressing need to dismantle these barriers and ensure full societal participation for the disabled community. He pointed out that individuals with disabilities often face voicelessness, invisibility, neglect, isolation, prejudice, and abuse, while their families and caregivers grapple with emotional strain and mental health challenges. Best stressed that disability is not a distant reality but a possibility for anyone, urging collective action to address these issues. During the event, the CDB presented a cheque to the Barbados Council for the Disabled (BCD) to fund initiatives such as assistive technologies, training, and projects aimed at improving accessibility. BCD President Patricia Padmore-Blackman lauded the support, noting its potential to drive innovation and technical advancements for people with disabilities. The CDB also reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development, following the April Global Disability Summit in Berlin. Vice President of Operations Isaac Solomon emphasized the bank’s dedication to ensuring that at least 15% of national development programs incorporate disability inclusion. Best highlighted the CDB’s Special Education Needs and Inclusive Education Policy and Strategy (SEND Policy), designed to transform traditional education systems into inclusive ones. He reiterated that inclusion is not charity but justice, and the CDB will continue to provide financing for early identification, curriculum adaptation, and infrastructure to support individuals with special needs.

The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) is intensifying its efforts to combat illegal water connections as it grapples with a staggering debt exceeding $100 million, largely attributed to unpaid bills. Acting CEO Christopher Mapp disclosed in an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY that the authority is investigating suspected cases of unauthorized water access by both residential and commercial users who were previously disconnected for non-payment.

The Government of Barbados, under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and the Third Sector, is set to host the annual National Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, November 23. The event will take place at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, commencing at 10 a.m. This year’s ceremony is themed ‘Transforming Our Nation Through Faith, Hope, and Love,’ emphasizing the values that underpin national unity and progress. Among the distinguished attendees will be Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, President of Barbados; Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley; and Chief Justice The Most Honourable Leslie Haynes. They will be joined by a host of government officials and dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the occasion. The service, organized by the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS), aims to foster a sense of collective gratitude and shared purpose among citizens.

The Caribbean Disability Conference commenced on Sunday evening with a powerful appeal for inclusion and decisive action from Kirk Humphrey, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs. Addressing attendees at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort, Humphrey emphasized the need to transcend policy frameworks and drive transformative changes for people with disabilities (PWD). ‘We have the opportunity over the next few days to achieve something truly transformative,’ he stated, highlighting the presence of policymakers and advocates at the event. The conference, hosted by Kerry-Ann Ifill, a prominent PWD advocate, gathered regional experts, activists, and government officials to discuss pressing issues. Humphrey underscored recent milestones, including the enactment of the Rights for Persons with Disabilities Act and increased funding for the Special Needs Grant, which aim to enhance the quality of life for PWD. However, he cautioned against complacency, urging accelerated efforts amid economic challenges. ‘Social services are often the first to face cuts during economic downturns, directly impacting PWD,’ he lamented, pointing to resource constraints in building facilities and acquiring assistive technologies. Humphrey also highlighted the persistent societal barriers of prejudice and discrimination, calling for inclusive education systems that treat PWD equitably. ‘Equality is not an aspiration; it is an obligation,’ he asserted, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues for future generations.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has pledged unwavering support for the 2025 Caribbean Disability Conference, reinforcing its dedication to fostering equitable access to quality education for individuals with disabilities. Themed ‘Breaking Barriers: Advancing Inclusive Education for All Abilities,’ the conference aims to drive sustainable development and social transformation across the region. Dr. Isaac Solomon, CDB’s Vice-President of Operations, emphasized the bank’s steadfast commitment to inclusivity during his address at the second annual conference. He asserted that the CDB is determined to leverage its influence to create more inclusive societies and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Dr. Solomon highlighted the importance of collaboration and genuine inclusion, stating that progress hinges on building a Caribbean society where individuals with disabilities are fully integrated and empowered. Reflecting on the momentum from the inaugural conference in Grenada and the recent Global Disability Summit in Berlin, he underscored the significance of these events in advancing equity. However, Dr. Solomon acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the region, including social barriers, legislative gaps, and limited access to digital technologies. He pointed to the CDB’s investments in education, training, and capacity building as evidence of its long-term commitment to inclusive development. Dr. Solomon also praised Caribbean governments for their legislative and policy efforts to create an enabling environment for persons with disabilities. Meanwhile, Barbados’ Minister of Educational Transformation, Chad Blackman, emphasized the importance of quality education for all, noting Barbados’ ambitious goal to develop the world’s leading educational system within seven years. He highlighted the government’s investments in teacher resources and innovative teaching methods, including the introduction of chess in schools to enhance critical thinking skills.

Barbados is poised to launch its newly established Social Empowerment Agency (SEA) next month, with nearly all staff from the four merging social service departments voluntarily joining the initiative. Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey, confirmed the development on Monday, dispelling concerns about delays caused by union negotiations. The SEA consolidates the Child Care Board, National Assistance Board, National Disabilities Unit, and the Welfare Department into a single entity aimed at providing comprehensive support to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Minister Humphrey emphasized that the agency’s mission is to transition from traditional welfare models to empowerment-focused strategies, fostering independence and reducing poverty through targeted programs and services. The government plans to establish empowerment centers across the island to enhance accessibility, ensuring that all communities benefit from the agency’s offerings. While specific figures on staff participation were not disclosed, Humphrey expressed confidence in the overwhelming positive response, stating that the agency is on track for a successful launch. The SEA will focus on skills development, capacity building, and tailored support services, marking a significant shift in Barbados’ approach to social welfare.

A harrowing incident unfolded on Monday morning outside Lester Vaughan School in St Thomas, Barbados, when a route taxi overturned, injuring 26 individuals, including 25 schoolchildren and the driver. The accident occurred shortly before 9 a.m. on Cane Garden Road, as the vehicle was en route to Bridgetown. According to police reports, the driver lost control, causing the taxi to flip just outside the school compound.