标签： Dominica

Nioka Abbott-Balcombe, a passionate farmer from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, has turned agriculture into both her livelihood and her mission. Specializing in bananas, cassava, sweet potato, yam, and vegetables, Nioka’s journey began in childhood under the guidance of her great-grandmother. Despite initially working in a restaurant to support her three children, she eventually returned to her roots, establishing her own farm with discipline and vision. Her dedication to farming has earned her recognition as one of the Leaders of Rurality of the Americas by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and she will soon receive the prestigious Soul of Rurality award. Nioka’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to food security and sustainability. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying crops to combat market fluctuations and advocates for natural, healthy foods, often sharing her experiences to inspire others. As chair of the WALCO cooperative, she empowers women in agriculture and introduces young people to farming, hoping to instill a love for the land in future generations. Nioka also reflects on the potential for urban agriculture, suggesting that even city dwellers can grow their own vegetables using simple containers. While she acknowledges the role of technology in modern farming, she remains selective, focusing on crops she can manage and those resistant to adverse weather. Nioka’s pride in her self-sufficiency and independence is evident, as she celebrates the legacy of her great-grandmother and the fulfillment she finds in her work.

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard is spearheading a critical search and rescue mission following a maritime incident near Guadeloupe. The operation focuses on locating Captain Phillippe “Daniel” Jules, a French national, who fell overboard from the vessel SV VOILACTUS late on October 21, 2025. The incident occurred approximately six nautical miles northeast of Guadeloupe, as Jules reportedly attempted to avoid the boat’s mast, leading to his unfortunate plunge into open waters. French authorities initially launched the search, with the ABDF taking over coordination efforts. The remaining ten crew members have been confirmed safe and are currently in Guadeloupe. The ABDF has expressed concern over the delayed reporting of the incident, which hindered an immediate response. Despite this, the Coast Guard is deploying all available resources, including collaboration with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Fort-de-France and the Commandement de la Gendarmerie, to ensure a successful rescue. The ABDF has also emphasized the importance of maritime safety, urging mariners to adhere to protocols such as using personal flotation devices and man-overboard alert systems. Lieutenant Randolph Best of the ABDF assured the public that all efforts are being made to achieve a favorable outcome, while extending support to Jules’ family and friends. Updates will be provided as the situation evolves.

Dominica has initiated a groundbreaking Co-Parenting Campaign aimed at enhancing the welfare of children in foster care, as announced by Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services. The campaign, which commenced on Wednesday, is set to continue until February 2026. Dr. Williams highlighted that approximately 160 children are currently enrolled in Dominica’s foster care program. While some of these placements offer long-term stability, many serve as transitional arrangements, providing a safe haven for children as their families work towards reunification. Dr. Williams emphasized the critical role of effective co-parenting in these scenarios, urging biological parents, foster parents, and social workers to maintain open communication and shared responsibility for the children’s emotional and developmental well-being. The campaign underscores the principle that every child deserves consistent love, guidance, and care, regardless of their living arrangements. It promotes healthy co-parenting practices founded on communication, respect, and stability. Nicole Toussaint-Jno Baptiste, Child Protection Officer at the Department of Social Services, echoed these sentiments, noting a rise in the number of children being raised in households where parents are separated or divorced. She pointed out that the breakdown of co-parenting relationships often leads to emotional difficulties for children, impacting their growth and development. The campaign, themed ‘Apart but United- A Co-Parenting Campaign,’ aims to convey that separated parents can still collaborate effectively in the best interest of their child.