The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Development Fund (CDF) has authorized a $500,000 relief package to assist Jamaica in recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The decision was formally approved by the CDF’s Board of Directors on November 19, 2025, under the Emergency Disaster Assistance Facility (EDAF), as announced by CARICOM Communications. This funding follows an earlier $300,000 grant allocated to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s (CDEMA) Regional Response Mechanism (RRM), which facilitated the deployment of the Rapid Needs Assessment Team (RNAT) to assess the damage. Hurricane Melissa, a powerful late-season storm, caused widespread destruction across Jamaica, including severe flooding, wind damage, and infrastructure collapse. Many parishes reported significant disruptions to transportation, utilities, and community services, exacerbating vulnerabilities and hindering recovery efforts. The newly approved aid will focus on debris removal, reopening critical access routes, and addressing public health and environmental risks. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Multi-Country Office in Jamaica. CDF CEO Rodinald Soomer emphasized the Fund’s commitment to regional solidarity, stating, ‘This relief package reflects our belief in shared responsibility and aims to not only rebuild but also strengthen resilience against future disasters.’
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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Miss DSC Mas Jamboree back after five-year hiatus, contestants revealed
Dominica State College (DSC) has officially introduced the six young women vying for the coveted Miss DSC Mas Jamboree 2026 title. The announcement was made during a sashing ceremony held on November 20, marking the official commencement of the pageant journey. The event served as a platform for the contestants to present themselves to the college community and select their competition numbers, which will determine their order during the show. The contestants include Kalie Clarke (#1), Nina Browne (#2), Mikkedia Joseph (#3), Nathalia Christmas (#4), Sherkhia Andrew (#5), and Kenisha Demezin (#6). This year’s competition will feature six distinct stages, including a formal interview, allowing participants to demonstrate their personality, cultural pride, talent, confidence, and public speaking abilities. The 2026 edition marks the return of Miss DSC Mas Jamboree to Dominica’s Carnival lineup after a five-year hiatus, underscoring DSC’s commitment to student development, cultural celebration, and youth empowerment. The college is encouraging local businesses, organizations, and individuals to sponsor contestants by contacting the DSC Student Affairs Department. DSC extended its best wishes to all participants as they embark on their journey to claim the prestigious crown.
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World Fisheries Day 2025: A Poetic Reflection
Today, Dominica joins nations worldwide in observing World Fisheries Day, a global event dedicated to recognizing the vital role of fisheries in sustaining livelihoods and ecosystems. To mark this significant occasion, Dominica News Online (DNO) has shared two evocative poems by local poet Zephra Baron. These literary pieces pay homage to the cultural and environmental importance of fisheries, highlighting their impact on communities and the planet. The poems serve as a creative reminder of the need for sustainable fishing practices and the preservation of marine resources. Through this artistic contribution, Dominica underscores its commitment to raising awareness about the challenges and opportunities within the fisheries sector. The celebration aligns with broader international efforts to promote responsible fishing and ensure the long-term health of aquatic ecosystems.
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Persad-Bissessar warns of CARICOM implosion amid row with Gonsalves
Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has issued a stark warning about the future of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), stating that the regional bloc risks imploding if leaders continue to interfere in the domestic affairs of member states. Her comments came in response to allegations made by St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who accused financiers of Trinidad’s ruling United National Congress (UNC) of funding the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) ahead of the November 27 general elections in Kingstown. Gonsalves claimed that UNC operatives were actively involved in St Vincent, motivated by access to lands and economic opportunities. Persad-Bissessar vehemently denied the allegations, calling them baseless and challenging Gonsalves to provide evidence or cease what she described as ‘gaslighting’ his citizens. She also highlighted ongoing investigations into how members of Gonsalves’ family acquired luxury apartments in Trinidad, questioning the legality of the transactions. The controversy has exacerbated tensions between the two nations, with Trinidad’s Housing Minister Anil Roberts suggesting the matter be referred to the police. Gonsalves defended his family, asserting that they followed proper procedures and received no special treatment. Persad-Bissessar, however, broadened her critique, emphasizing that CARICOM’s credibility is at stake if leaders persist in meddling in each other’s politics. She stressed that the choice of leadership in any member state should be left to its people, warning that continued interference could lead to the bloc’s collapse.
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STATEMENT: Christian Assembly Ministries on passing of Pastor Edward Laurent
Christian Assembly Ministries has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pastor Edward Laurent, a revered figure in the ministry and a spiritual leader who touched countless lives. The organization extended its heartfelt condolences to his wife, First Lady Sharmandy Laurent, their children, Bishop Jerry Laurent, Sister Vincentia Adrien, and the entire Laurent family, as well as to the members of Gospel Light Temple Church, fellow pastors, congregations, and friends.
Pastor Laurent’s contributions to Christian Assembly Ministries were immeasurable, especially during his early years of ministry when he returned to Dominica. His unwavering grace, humility, and dedication to serving the Lord and His people left an indelible mark on the community. His life and work continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him.
In this time of mourning, Christian Assembly Ministries finds solace in the belief that Pastor Laurent is now in the presence of the Lord, free from pain and suffering. They draw comfort from the assurance of eternal life in Christ and the hope that one day they will be reunited with him. The ministry prayed for God’s peace and strength to surround the Laurent family and all who grieve his loss.
On behalf of the entire Christian Assembly Ministries family, they offered their deepest sympathy and unwavering support. They encouraged everyone to find comfort in the cherished memories of Pastor Laurent and the promise of eternal life, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide and sustain them in the days ahead.
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OECS Commission marks International Children’s Day by championing student voice and future-shaping initiatives
On International Children’s Day, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has reiterated its steadfast dedication to safeguarding the rights, protection, and holistic development of every child within the region. The Commission highlighted the pivotal role of children as both beneficiaries of policy and key contributors to building a resilient future.
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UWP to host 10th town hall meeting in Roseau Central
The United Workers Party (UWP) is set to hold its 10th Town Hall Meeting today in Roseau Central, Dominica. The event will commence at 5:00 p.m. at the Public Service Union (PSU) Building on Valley Road. Glenroy “Soso” Cuffy, the Public Relations Officer of the UWP, emphasized the importance of the meeting during a recent Q-95 Radio broadcast, urging citizens to attend in large numbers. He highlighted that the gathering would serve as a platform for the party to present its development strategies for Dominica. Cuffy stressed the need for public participation, stating, “You need to turn out in large numbers to hear some of the things we have planned for Dominica and to hear how it is we are going to make sure things are happening.” He also addressed criticisms of the party’s inactivity, asserting that the UWP has already conducted nine similar meetings nationwide, engaging directly with citizens. The Roseau Central meeting is expected to be a significant event, with Cuffy expressing confidence in a strong turnout. Additionally, Cuffy encouraged the public to participate in the ongoing Voter Confirmation Process, emphasizing the importance of ensuring citizens’ right to vote. He remarked, “We need to support the movement of unity and we need to move forward expeditiously to get everybody confirmed and to have the government out.” Cuffy underscored the necessity of decisive action if elections are called, stating that Dominicans deserve a trustworthy government. He elaborated on the party’s vision, saying, “It is important that every Dominican should be impacted by the policies of a government going forward and to benefit from the country. This is why we talked about shared prosperity, we talked about the 10-pillar plan.” The Roseau Central Town Hall Meeting is part of the UWP’s broader effort to communicate its policies and vision to the nation.
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Miss Mexico crowned Miss Universe following insult from organizer
In a dramatic turn of events, Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned the new Miss Universe, capping off a pageant marred by controversy and tension. The competition, held in Thailand, was overshadowed by a heated confrontation between Bosch and Nawat Itsaragrisil, the head of Miss Universe Thailand. The incident reportedly began during a meeting where Nawat publicly criticized Bosch for insufficient social media promotion of the host nation, escalating when he allegedly called her ‘dumb.’ This sparked outrage, leading Bosch and several other contestants to walk out in protest. The fallout extended further as two judges, former Chelsea footballer Claude Makelele and musician Omar Harfouch, resigned. Harfouch accused the competition of being rigged, adding to the turmoil. Amid these controversies, the pageant continued, with Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh and Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali securing the runner-up and third-place positions, respectively. Despite the drama, Bosch’s victory marked a triumphant conclusion to a contentious event.
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Dominica’s Cadence-lypso Queen Ophelia invited to major women’s leadership forum in Burkina Faso
Dominican music legend Ophelia has been invited to perform at the 14th edition of the Forum International des Femmes Entreprenantes et Dynamiques (FIED) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from November 25–30, 2025. This prestigious invitation follows the release of her reggae anthem ‘Burkinabe Rise,’ a powerful tribute to the resilience and aspirations of the Burkinabe people. FIED 2025, a leading pan-African event, focuses on women’s leadership, industrialization, and the promotion of local products as key drivers of Africa’s economic future. The forum will host women entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and development partners for panels, workshops, exhibitions, and networking sessions aimed at advancing women’s economic empowerment across the continent. Ophelia’s performance of ‘Burkinabe Rise’ will be a highlight of the forum’s cultural program, symbolizing unity between Africa and its diaspora. Known as Dominica’s ‘Queen of Cadence-lypso,’ Ophelia has long been celebrated for her socially conscious music and unique Creole vocal style. Her participation in FIED 2025 is expected to strengthen cultural and economic ties between the Caribbean and West Africa while showcasing Dominica’s rich musical heritage. Ophelia described the invitation as a ‘bridge between Roseau and Ouagadougou,’ emphasizing the song’s message of solidarity with Africa’s fight for justice, economic freedom, and cultural pride.
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CARICOM IMPACS workshop enhances collective efforts to combat illegal glass eel trafficking
A high-level workshop addressing the illegal trafficking of glass eels, a critical issue linked to transnational organized crime, commenced on November 20, 2025, in Bridgetown, Barbados. Organized by CARICOM IMPACS, the event brought together law enforcement, customs, fisheries, and environmental protection agencies from across the Caribbean to strengthen their investigative capabilities and combat this growing threat.