The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has revised the operating hours for accepting white goods, derelict galvanize, and other metal items at the Fond Cole Landfill. Initially, the landfill was set to receive these materials from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, a new update issued on Monday now restricts the acceptance window to 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the same weekdays. White goods, which include large household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, are a significant focus of this policy change. Earlier this year, the landfill temporarily halted the acceptance of such items following a fire on June 30, which caused thick smoke to affect nearby communities. During that period, the landfill only processed general waste. Rhoda St. John, the DSWMC Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of responsible waste management and encouraged the public to adhere to the updated guidelines. For further inquiries, residents can contact the DSWMC at 449-8168 or 616-0035.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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West Indies all-rounder Bernard Julien dies at 75
Bernard Julien, the celebrated West Indies all-rounder and a key figure in the team’s triumph at the inaugural Cricket World Cup in 1975, has passed away at the age of 75. Julien’s illustrious career spanned 36 matches for the West Indies, including 24 Test caps, where he scored 866 runs at an average of 30.92 and took 50 wickets. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he claimed 18 wickets at an impressive average of 25.72. Known for his left-arm swing bowling and composed batting, Julien played a pivotal role in the 1975 World Cup, delivering standout performances against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Australia in the final at Lord’s. Cricket West Indies paid tribute to Julien, emphasizing his enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the sport. Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, highlighted Julien’s calm temperament and thoughtful approach to the game, which were instrumental in the team’s success. Julien’s career also included a stint with Kent County Cricket Club from 1970 to 1977, where he made significant contributions, helping the team secure multiple trophies. Kent Cricket remembered him as one of the most effective left-arm swing bowlers of his generation. Julien’s passing marks the end of an era for cricket, but his contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations.
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OP-ED: Big Tobacco calls it harm reduction, Caribbean youth calls it profiting from addiction
The Caribbean has become a focal point for lobbying efforts by groups such as the World Vapers’ Alliance, Smoke Free Sweden, and We Are Innovation, as the region is strategically targeted to weaken tobacco control measures ahead of the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). These campaigns, supported by tobacco and related industries, promote electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products as ‘harm reduction’ tools, despite evidence highlighting their risks, particularly for youth. Recent articles and social media campaigns in Barbados and Trinidad have attempted to frame these products as safe, ignoring their addictive nature and uncertain long-term health impacts. Nicotine, a key component of these products, is highly addictive and linked to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and impaired brain development in adolescents. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the tobacco industry is using these products to undermine public health policies while aggressively marketing them to children and non-smokers. Dr. Arthur Phillips, Deputy Chief Medical Officer in Barbados, emphasized the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to the long-term costs of tobacco and nicotine addiction. The Barbados National NCD Commission has also highlighted the rise of vaping as a serious threat, particularly to youth, who are targeted with sweet flavors and bright packaging. Caribbean governments, as parties to the WHO FCTC, must resist industry interference and defend evidence-based tobacco control policies. Mrs. Barbara McGaw of the Heart Foundation of Jamaica urged governments to act urgently, applying WHO’s MPOWER package to counter the spread of electronic nicotine delivery systems. Youth e-cigarette use in the region is alarming, with rates as high as 17.2% in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Asante LeBlanc of the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society emphasized the importance of campaigns like ‘Clear the Air’ to protect youth from nicotine addiction. As a youth tobacco control advocate, Dorial Quintyne, MPH, called for Caribbean governments to unite at COP11, reject industry interference, and champion effective tobacco control measures.
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Dominican art takes center stage in upcoming solo exhibitions at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel (updated)
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo exhibitions by renowned Dominican artists, showcasing their dedication to fostering local culture and artistic expression. At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his latest exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The collection explores themes of identity, heritage, and the deep connection between people and place, offering a profoundly personal visual narrative. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the exhibition invites both locals and visitors to experience Dominica’s essence through Francis’ unique artistic perspective. Simultaneously, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 20, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates the island’s traditions and cultural resilience, aiming to preserve and share the island’s rich heritage. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to Dominica’s cultural identity. Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, emphasized that these exhibitions highlight Dominica’s contemporary artistic talent while aligning with the resorts’ mission to promote the island’s vibrant culture. Both exhibitions are open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Dominican art in iconic settings. Secret Bay, a Relais & Châteaux property, is celebrated for its luxurious, eco-friendly villas and breathtaking Caribbean Sea views, while Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, located in Roseau, provides guests with immersive cultural and natural experiences. For more information, visit www.secretbay.dm or contact Fort Young Hotel at 767-448-5000.
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Solo exhibitions of Dominican art to take center stage at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo art exhibitions that highlight the island’s cultural richness and contemporary artistic prowess. These events aim to showcase the works of two renowned Dominican artists, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s heritage and creative spirit.
At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intrinsic bond between individuals and their environment. Francis’s unique artistic perspective weaves personal narratives with national pride, creating a compelling visual journey. The gallery welcomes the public daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 8, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates Dominica’s enduring traditions and cultural legacy, emphasizing the importance of preserving and sharing the island’s unique identity. The exhibition is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, remarked, ‘These exhibitions not only honor two of Dominica’s most talented contemporary artists but also align with our mission to spotlight the island’s vibrant culture and creativity.’ Both exhibitions are accessible to hotel guests and the general public, providing an immersive experience in two of Dominica’s most iconic settings.
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Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles to receive Kompa Recognition Award at 2026 Haitian Music Awards
Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles, Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador and a staunch advocate for Creole heritage, has been selected as a Recognition Award Recipient at the 10th Annual Haitian Music Awards (PHMA). The prestigious event is set to take place on January 10, 2026, at the Lipman Performing Arts Theater in North Miami Beach, Florida. Charles will receive the Kompa Recognition Award, a testament to his over four decades of dedication to cultural exchange and the promotion of Creole traditions. His efforts have significantly strengthened the cultural ties between Dominica and the Haitian kompa community, fostering a shared appreciation for Creole rhythms and heritage. ‘I am elated and deeply honored to receive this recognition,’ Charles expressed. ‘This award symbolizes a journey of unity, connecting Dominica and Haiti through music, language, and our shared cultural identity.’ The PHMA is a premier event that celebrates excellence in Haitian music and culture, honoring artists and cultural leaders who have made substantial contributions to the global promotion of Haitian music, particularly the kompa genre. Charles joins an esteemed group of honorees, including Robel Shalu of Top Vice, Cubano of Scat, DP Express, Jacot Serge Rochelle of Schlesler, Tat Lacoll, and other kompa legends. Throughout his career, Charles has been a pivotal figure in bridging Dominica and the Haitian community. He has served as the Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Haitian Association, promoted Haitian Flag Day in Dominica, and spearheaded initiatives that celebrate Creole language, music, and identity across the Caribbean and its diaspora. His work with Creole Heartbeat, the World Creole Music Festival, and various cultural collaborations has amplified Creole culture on a global scale. ‘I extend my heartfelt thanks to Kirby Lavier and the PHMA Committee, the City of North Miami Beach, committee members, cultural leaders, Francisole and Wanikoli, WCMF, DBS Radio, and the Creole family in Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe who have walked this journey with me,’ Charles added. As he prepares to accept this accolade, Charles remains steadfast in his mission to unite Creole communities through music, language, and cultural pride. The PHMA, founded to honor excellence in Haitian music, has become a cornerstone of cultural celebration for Haitian communities across the Americas and beyond.
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Wider Caribbean nations to convene in Jamaica for critical summit on marine protection
Government representatives and technical experts from across the Wider Caribbean Region will gather in Kingston, Jamaica, from October 13 to 16, 2025, for the Eighteenth Meeting of the Contracting Parties (COP18) to the Cartagena Convention. Organized by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this biennial event will focus on addressing the escalating environmental challenges threatening the Caribbean Sea and shaping the future of regional marine conservation. The summit will feature sessions dedicated to the Land-Based Sources of Marine Pollution (LBS) Protocol and the Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) Protocol, aiming to bolster regional cooperation in combating marine pollution, biodiversity decline, and coastal ecosystem degradation. Christopher Corbin, Coordinator of UNEP’s Cartagena Convention Secretariat, emphasized the critical nature of the meeting, highlighting pressing issues such as land-based pollution, plastic waste, sargassum influxes, coral reef bleaching, and ocean acidification. ‘COP18 is a pivotal platform for Contracting Parties to reaffirm their commitment and chart a coordinated path forward to protect these vital ecosystems,’ Corbin stated. Key agenda items include reviewing the 2023–2024 work plan, approving a strategic programme and budget for 2026–2027, and adopting resolutions on emerging environmental concerns. Delegates will also explore proposals to advance marine litter action plans, enhance pollution control measures, expand protected areas, and strengthen ocean governance frameworks to support a sustainable blue economy. ‘This COP is a call to action,’ Corbin added. ‘We must accelerate the implementation of regional commitments into tangible national actions to safeguard our marine resources for future generations.’ Anticipated outcomes include a well-funded work plan for 2025–2026, new guidelines for sargassum management and plastic pollution, and renewed political dedication to the Convention and its protocols. ‘These outcomes will significantly impact key sectors like tourism, fisheries, and shipping, contributing to the global effort to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water,’ Corbin concluded.
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Skerrit presses Electoral Commission to meet October 15 voter confirmation deadline
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has expressed confidence in the Electoral Commission’s readiness to launch the national voter confirmation campaign by the revised deadline of October 15, 2025. The campaign, initially slated for September 2025, faced delays due to regulatory finalization issues, prompting Parliament to amend the Registration of Electors Act on August 30, 2025, granting a one-month extension. This adjustment was described as a technical necessity to ensure the Commission’s operational preparedness. However, the delay has drawn criticism from opponents who allege that the process is being manipulated to favor overseas-based voters. During a recent press briefing, PM Skerrit emphasized that the government has provided the Electoral Commission with all necessary legislative and financial resources to execute the campaign. He clarified that while the government does not interfere in the Commission’s daily operations, it remains available to offer support, such as legal advice from the Attorney General. Skerrit further asserted that the Commission has no grounds to miss the October 15 deadline, as Parliament was explicit in granting the additional time. He anticipates an official announcement regarding the campaign’s readiness soon.
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IOM Dominica highlights farm-to-table innovation at Flavours of the World Festival
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Dominica collaborated with the organizers of the Flavours of the World Festival on September 28, hosting a farm-to-table showcase that highlighted local agricultural creativity while fostering discussions on migration and inclusion. Held at the Stadium Forecourt in Roseau, the event celebrated Dominica’s cultural diversity through food, music, dance, and storytelling, while raising funds for the restoration of the historic Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral. IOM Dominica’s booth featured innovative culinary creations such as plantain waffles drizzled with Bud’s Backyard Honey and guava cookies developed by 25-year-old entrepreneur D Baked That. These products showcased how everyday crops can be transformed into value-added items, reducing food waste, supporting food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. D Baked That shared her inspiration for using guava, a fruit abundant on the island, to create unique treats with economic potential. Her participation underscored the importance of youth innovation in agriculture, a key focus for both the festival and IOM Dominica. The event also included IOM’s interactive ‘I Did Not Know I Was a Migrant’ campaign, which encouraged attendees to reflect on their family histories and the deep-rooted migration stories in Dominica. Natasha Greaves, Head of Office of IOM Dominica, emphasized the connection between food and migration, stating that the festival aimed to promote sustainability, inclusion, and compassion. The Flavours of the World Festival featured cuisines from Haiti, Africa, China, India, Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Europe, the United States, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Asia, supporting Dominica’s health and wellness agenda by promoting healthy eating to combat non-communicable diseases. Proceeds from the event will aid the restoration of Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral, a cultural landmark tied to Dominica’s migration history.
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Dominica hosts inaugural Caribbean Athlete Retreat
Dominica has made history by hosting its first-ever Caribbean Athlete Retreat from October 3 to October 5, 2025. The event, themed ‘Embracing the Comeback-Mindset of a Champion,’ brought together sports enthusiasts from across the Caribbean, including Dominica and the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). Organized by Pelago and supported by regional and international partners, the retreat aimed to foster collaboration, resilience, and personal growth among athletes. The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by Dominica’s Olympic gold medalist and Ambassador, Thea Lafond-Gadson. Lafond-Gadson highlighted the retreat’s broader purpose, emphasizing its role in providing elite resources and promoting regional solidarity. ‘The Caribbean is only growing stronger, and we only become stronger when we work together,’ she stated. Lafond-Gadson also shared her personal journey through the challenges of elite sport, offering encouragement to attendees. ‘If this weekend lights a fire of hope, persistence, and allows you to rest on each other’s shoulders while connecting, it has done its job,’ she said. The retreat concluded on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in Caribbean athletic collaboration and development.