标签: Dominica

多米尼克

  • JCI Dominica Makes History, Wins Best Local Global Goals Project at 2025 JCI World Congress in Tunis, Tunisia

    JCI Dominica Makes History, Wins Best Local Global Goals Project at 2025 JCI World Congress in Tunis, Tunisia

    JCI Dominica has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Best Local Global Goals Project Award at the 2025 JCI World Congress in Tunis, Tunisia. The accolade was awarded for their transformative initiative, ‘Read With Me,’ which has been instrumental in promoting early literacy, fostering family engagement, and ensuring equitable access to educational resources for children across Dominica. Rooted in Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, the project integrates awareness, action, and sustainability through various activities, including reading sessions, book drives, capacity-building workshops for parents and caregivers, and the distribution of literacy tools. Mr. Phael Lander, the Local President of JCI Dominica, expressed immense pride in the achievement, stating that the initiative, which began in 2020, was driven by a vision to cultivate a love for reading, enhance family involvement, and make learning accessible to every child. He emphasized that the award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the organization’s members, partners, and volunteers. JCI Dominica also extended gratitude to schools, families, and stakeholders who supported the project, reaffirming their commitment to empowering young citizens and driving impactful community transformation.

  • New Accident and Emergency Operating Theatre opens at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital

    New Accident and Emergency Operating Theatre opens at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital

    The Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) marked a significant milestone in healthcare advancement with the inauguration of a fully equipped Accident and Emergency (A&E) Operating Theatre on November 6, 2025. Valued at EC$1.17 million, this cutting-edge facility was made possible through the generous support of The Maria Holder Memorial Trust, reinforcing the government’s commitment to modernizing Dominica’s healthcare infrastructure. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, addressing the audience at the opening ceremony, hailed the initiative as a testament to the government’s dedication to quality healthcare. He lauded the Trust for its unwavering partnership since 2015, which has previously aided national recovery efforts post-Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria. The new theatre, equipped with advanced anesthesia systems, orthopedic extensions, portable imaging devices, and rapid diagnostic tools, is poised to revolutionize emergency care by enabling urgent surgeries directly within the A&E Department, thereby eliminating the need for patient transfers. This development is expected to enhance response times, improve patient outcomes, and increase survival rates. Prime Minister Skerrit also commended the Dominica Hospitals Authority and Health Minister Cassanni Laville for their leadership and technical expertise. The government’s broader vision includes the construction of the Marigot Hospital, upgrades to 13 health centers, and ongoing enhancements at DCFH, all aimed at ensuring accessible, affordable, and dependable healthcare for all Dominicans. Minister Laville emphasized that the new facility will streamline surgical operations, reducing delays and cancellations of elective procedures by localizing emergency interventions within the A&E.

  • Caribbean Export and Canada promote fair trade through GRIT initiative launch in Dominica

    Caribbean Export and Canada promote fair trade through GRIT initiative launch in Dominica

    A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in the Caribbean was unveiled on November 6, 2025, in Dominica. The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada (GAC), introduced GRIT – Caribbean Women Entrepreneurs Generating Resilient and Inclusive Trade. The launch event took place at Barana Aute in the Kalinago Territory, marking a significant step toward reshaping the region’s economic landscape. GRIT focuses on supporting women-led businesses by addressing trade barriers, fostering green transition, promoting digital innovation, and expanding market access. The initiative aligns with broader goals of inclusive development and economic resilience. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials from Dominica and Canada, representatives from the Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA), and women entrepreneurs from across the island. Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasized the transformative potential of GRIT, stating, ‘This initiative is not just about empowering women; it’s about shaping the future of Caribbean trade, where businesses, especially MSMEs, can thrive in global markets.’ High Commissioner Brenda Wills of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean reiterated Canada’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive growth, highlighting trade as a catalyst for equitable economic opportunities. Chief Anette Thomas Sanford of the Kalinago Territory underscored the importance of empowering indigenous and female entrepreneurs in driving local development. Paula Platsko, General Manager of DEXIA, emphasized the role of collaboration in enhancing trade prospects for women across the region. Funded with CAD $3.16 million from the Canadian government, GRIT is a four-year program designed to increase women’s participation in export markets, particularly to Canada, by providing resources, training, and business linkages in Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Hon. Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, delivered the keynote speech, celebrating the resilience and contributions of Kalinago women to Dominica’s development. The event also featured a Fireside Chat with Dominican entrepreneurs Lana Athanaze and Natasha Green, who shared insights into the challenges and triumphs of women in the creative sector. Caribbean Export highlighted GRIT as a pivotal step toward achieving inclusive and sustainable trade in the region.

  • ANNOUNCEMENT: DOWASCO apologizes for unscheduled service interruption from Mero to Castle Comfort

    ANNOUNCEMENT: DOWASCO apologizes for unscheduled service interruption from Mero to Castle Comfort

    Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO) has issued a formal apology to customers served by the WA-1 System, which spans from Mero to Castle Comfort, including Warner and Campbell, particularly those in elevated areas. The unscheduled interruption in water supply was necessitated by heavy rainfall, which caused extremely high turbidity levels in the water source. This condition forced DOWASCO to temporarily shut down the system to ensure water safety and quality. The company is actively monitoring river flow conditions and is committed to restoring service as swiftly as possible. DOWASCO expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused and extended gratitude to customers and the general public for their cooperation and understanding during this challenging period. The company reaffirmed its motto, ‘Our Water, Our Treasure, Our Life,’ emphasizing its dedication to providing reliable water services.

  • At UWI free movement forum, alumnus PM Ralph Gonsalves says delays in solidifying regional integration may undermine the whole

    At UWI free movement forum, alumnus PM Ralph Gonsalves says delays in solidifying regional integration may undermine the whole

    Regional leaders and scholars recently gathered at The University of the West Indies (UWI) Vice-Chancellor’s Forum to address pivotal issues surrounding the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), free movement, and the broader Caribbean Regionalisation Project. Held on October 21, the event aimed to strengthen unity among Caribbean nations amidst ongoing challenges, according to a press release.

    St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, a UWI alumnus, emphasized the urgency of deeper regional integration. He highlighted the critical need for implementing free movement policies, warning that delays or hesitations by member states could hinder collective progress. Gonsalves urged proactive planning to address demographic and economic challenges, stressing that tackling shared issues is essential for sustainable growth.

    Gonsalves identified several pressing concerns threatening regional cohesion, including declining fertility rates, aging populations, and the need for flexible free movement policies tailored to individual island nations. He also raised issues such as trade barriers caused by currency exchange disparities, varying energy costs, and insufficient funding for the CARICOM Development Fund. Additionally, he called for improved airspace management, unified foreign policy strategies, and effective navigation of geopolitical concerns.

    The forum, themed “Promises, Passports, and Possibilities: Free Movement, the CSME, and Caribbean Regionalisation,” featured a diverse panel of experts, including diplomats, academics, and policymakers. UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles opened the event, framing regional integration as a moral and historical necessity rooted in the shared destiny of Caribbean peoples. He acknowledged progress but noted persistent internal and external challenges that continue to divide the region.

    Professor Canute Thompson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Undergraduate Studies, chaired the forum and reflected on the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, questioning whether its promises had been realized. Presentations from key figures such as Dr. Indira Rampersad, Ambassador Anthony Hylton, and Dr. Delroy Beckford evaluated the current state of regional integration, identified obstacles, and explored future steps.

    Dr. Rampersad highlighted deficiencies in regional data collection, which hinder effective policymaking. Ambassador Hylton emphasized the need for enforcing legal frameworks through the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), referencing the landmark Shanique Myrie case. Dr. Beckford advocated for aligning national laws with regional treaty obligations, cautioning against superficial integration efforts.

    The event, broadcast live on UWItv, reignited discussions on CARICOM’s integration efforts over five decades since the Treaty of Chaguaramas.

  • Dr. Kenneth Darroux is now interim CEO of Dominica Hospital Authority

    Dr. Kenneth Darroux is now interim CEO of Dominica Hospital Authority

    Dr. Kenneth Darroux, former Health Minister of Dominica, has been appointed as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dominica Hospital Authority. He succeeds Nancy Francis, a St. Lucian national, who served in the role for two years. Dr. Darroux expressed gratitude for Francis’s foundational work, which set the authority on a path toward prosperity. He acknowledged the challenges of stepping out of semi-retirement to take on this critical role but emphasized his readiness to address the complexities of managing a national hospital. Dr. Darroux, who has served as a patient, medical doctor, intern, Health Minister, and deputy director of the hospital board, brings a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system to his new position. Since assuming the role, he has been actively engaging with staff across all levels to identify issues and gather insights. He plans to present a detailed report to the Minister of Health outlining necessary steps to steer the hospital in the right direction. A key focus for Dr. Darroux is restoring public trust in the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH), which has faced criticism despite significant investments in modern facilities and advanced medical equipment. He highlighted the importance of motivated and satisfied staff in delivering quality healthcare and revealed plans to hire a PR consultant to improve the hospital’s public image. Dr. Darroux’s extensive career in healthcare and politics, including his current role as Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscores his commitment to strengthening Dominica’s health systems and disaster resilience.

  • India donates 20 tons of aid to Jamaica post-Hurricane Melissa

    India donates 20 tons of aid to Jamaica post-Hurricane Melissa

    In a significant display of international solidarity, India has stepped forward to assist Jamaica in its recovery efforts following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa. The High Commission of India in Jamaica announced via social media that an Indian Air Force aircraft delivered approximately 20 tons of essential relief supplies to the Caribbean nation on November 6. The aid package, which was formally handed over by India’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Mayank Joshi, to Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, includes a range of critical resources designed to support the island’s rebuilding process. Among the supplies are the specialized BHISHM Medical Trauma Unit, power generators, temporary shelters, bedding, mats, kitchen sets, solar-powered lanterns, and hygiene products. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to its philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which translates to ‘the world is one family.’ The timely delivery of these materials highlights India’s proactive approach to global humanitarian crises and its dedication to fostering international cooperation in times of need.

  • STATEMENT: Miss WÒB 2025 ZebadiJah ( Zebbie) Maxwell— A Heartfelt thank you and a note for DA’s 47th Independence

    STATEMENT: Miss WÒB 2025 ZebadiJah ( Zebbie) Maxwell— A Heartfelt thank you and a note for DA’s 47th Independence

    In a moment of national pride and personal triumph, Zebbie has been crowned Miss WÒB 2025, a title she dedicates to her family, community, and the village of Tarreau. The newly crowned queen expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support she received throughout her journey. From her immediate family, who stood as her guiding force, to the dedicated teams working tirelessly behind the scenes, Zebbie acknowledged the collective effort that shaped her success. She also extended heartfelt thanks to her coaches, sponsors, and the villagers of Tarreau, whose belief in her propelled her to this historic achievement. ‘This crown belongs to all of us,’ she declared, emphasizing the shared victory.

    While celebrating this milestone, Zebbie also addressed her absence from this year’s Independence Day celebrations and the Military Parade, events of immense national significance. She explained that her attendance at the One Young World Summit—a global platform uniting young leaders to drive positive change—took precedence. Being chosen as the nation’s flag bearer at the summit filled her with immense pride, a moment she described as even more exhilarating than receiving the scholarship to attend.

    Zebbie vowed to return with renewed energy, innovative ideas, and a steadfast commitment to serve her community and nation. Her message concluded with gratitude and a call for unity: ‘One LOVE. Happy Independence! Domnik 47 Strong!’

  • Call for paper submissions as regional symposium on the future of libraries to be facilitated by National Library Service

    Call for paper submissions as regional symposium on the future of libraries to be facilitated by National Library Service

    The National Library Service (NLS) has announced its first-ever conference, titled “The Future of Libraries: Embracing Technology, Strengthening Community Engagement, and Sustaining Development in a Digital Era.” Scheduled for February 20, 2026, the event will be held at the Hilton Barbados Resort. This groundbreaking symposium aims to address the evolving role of libraries in the Caribbean, focusing on digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and community engagement. The timing is significant, as it coincides with the National Year of Reading 2026 and precedes the NLS’s 180th anniversary in 2027, highlighting the dual importance of preserving cultural heritage and advancing technological innovation. Jennifer Yarde, Director of the NLS, emphasized the need for Caribbean libraries to lead discussions on digital preservation while adopting cutting-edge technologies. The conference will bring together library professionals, archivists, educators, researchers, and tech experts to exchange ideas and develop strategies for modern information management. A key feature of the event is a call for scholarly papers addressing critical issues such as AI integration, digital inclusivity, and the preservation of Caribbean cultural identity. Selected submissions will undergo peer review and be included in the official proceedings, contributing to the advancement of library and information science. The symposium will explore six core themes: AI and emerging technologies, inclusive digital library design, community outreach, e-libraries, cultural preservation, and the integration of archives and libraries. Interested participants are invited to submit 300-word abstracts by November 18, 2025, with full papers due by December 15, 2025. Details on submissions and registration are available on the NLS’s social media platforms. The NLS encourages all stakeholders to join this transformative event and contribute to shaping the future of libraries.

  • WEATHER (Nov 7): Moderate showers, possible thunderstorms during the morning; residents should exercise caution

    WEATHER (Nov 7): Moderate showers, possible thunderstorms during the morning; residents should exercise caution

    Meteorological conditions are set to shift significantly as a trough system brings weak to moderate instability, resulting in cloudy skies and light to moderate showers across the region this morning. Isolated thunderstorms are also possible, though less likely. As the day progresses, a tropical wave is expected to approach, amplifying moisture levels and instability from tonight onward. Residents in areas susceptible to flooding, landslides, and rockfalls are urged to remain vigilant during this period. Simultaneously, a frontal system in the north Atlantic is generating northerly swells along the western, northern, and eastern coastlines today. Wind speeds are anticipated to increase, leading to moderate sea conditions. Waves are forecast to reach up to 5 feet along the west coast and near 8 feet in open waters to the east. In response, authorities have issued a Small Craft Advisory and High Surf Advisory, advising sea-bathers and small-craft operators to exercise extreme caution due to hazardous marine conditions.