Eight years after the catastrophic Hurricane Maria, Dominica has emerged as a regional leader in meteorological infrastructure within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore highlighted this achievement during a walk-through ceremony at the Office of Disaster Management Building in Jimmit on Monday. The event was organized to showcase the significant progress made in meteorological forecasting and disaster management since the hurricane devastated the island in 2017. Blackmoore emphasized the importance of recognizing advancements, stating, ‘Let us not underestimate the progress we have made. Eight years after Hurricane Maria, we have the best Met Services infrastructure in the OECS.’ He noted that Dominica now boasts a standalone meteorological headquarters, a project initiated in 2019, which surpasses the facilities of neighboring countries that often operate from airports or smaller offices. Blackmoore stressed the critical role of well-equipped meteorological services in achieving Dominica’s goal of becoming the first climate-resilient nation. ‘We must have the prerequisite resources in personnel and equipment to better forecast and issue warnings,’ he said. The minister also highlighted the country’s investment in automatic water gauges and other advanced tools, which have reduced reliance on external entities for weather alerts. ‘No one would have thought that Dominica would be the first in the OECS to have a dedicated Met Services building,’ Blackmoore remarked, underscoring the island’s remarkable transformation since Hurricane Maria.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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CWI launches second round of foundational training, in Leeward Islands and St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has initiated the second cycle of its Foundation Level & Refreshers Cricket Coaching Course across the Leeward Islands and St. Vincent, marking a significant step in its strategic mission to build a robust coaching network in the Caribbean. The program, which commenced on October 2, 2025, at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua & Barbuda, is designed to prepare coaches for the reopening of primary schools and the revival of community-based grassroots cricket initiatives. Sessions are scheduled to take place in Montserrat, the British and US Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Anguilla, and St. Vincent, culminating on October 30. Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, underscored the organization’s dedication to enhancing coaching standards and cricket infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of early-stage coaching education in fostering sustainable growth for the sport. He highlighted the collaboration with government and private sector partners to expand age-group cricket, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable pathway for aspiring cricketers. The coaching courses, led by seasoned instructors Mr. Brendon Ramlal and Mr. Keshava Ramphal, focus on critical areas such as child protection, tactical understanding, physical fitness, and effective communication. CWI has also mandated that all participants complete the UNICEF Child Protection Course and a Cricket Safeguarding & Child Protection Workshop to ensure a safe environment for young athletes. These initiatives are expected to significantly benefit youth programs like the Republic Bank Limited (RBL) Five for Fun Cricket and the Girls Under-16/19 Territorial Cricket Hub. Since its inception, the program has trained over 150 coaches across multiple Caribbean nations, including Dominica, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, and Jamaica, reinforcing CWI’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting cricket at the grassroots level.
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FEATURED PHOTO: Vista from Penville
Penville, a small yet profoundly significant locale in Dominica, holds a complex tapestry of emotions for its inhabitants and visitors alike. For many Dominicans, it is a place steeped in memories, some of which are tinged with sorrow and loss. Yet, despite its association with tragedy, Penville remains a testament to the resilience and enduring beauty of the region. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and serene vistas, Penville offers a poignant reminder of the past while continuing to captivate with its natural charm. Its dual identity as a site of remembrance and a beacon of beauty makes it a unique and cherished part of Dominica’s cultural and geographical heritage.
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Blackmoore: Firearms task force to undergo polygraph testing, community policing unit approved
In a significant move to bolster national security, Dominica’s Minister for National Security, Rayburn Blackmoore, has announced that members of the newly established firearms task force will undergo polygraph testing. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat gun-related crimes and ensure the integrity of law enforcement operations. The task force, mandated by law, is dedicated to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting individuals involved in the illegal possession, trafficking, and use of firearms. Blackmoore emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards within the unit, stating, ‘We have to ensure that members of that task force are of the right caliber so that operations cannot be compromised.’ The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security has been instructed to facilitate the polygraphing process for all officers in the unit, including junior ranks and gazetted officers. Blackmoore also highlighted the establishment of an anti-illicit firearms interagency investigative unit, which includes officers from the Financial Intelligence Unit, customs, and excise duty. He praised the collaborative efforts of regional and international partners in sourcing professionals to conduct the tests, noting that their support is critical for the initiative’s success. Additionally, Blackmoore revealed the creation of a specialized unit for community policing, further underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety.
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Caribbean Development Bank hosts 22nd annual meeting for Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is co-hosting the 22nd Annual Meeting of the Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network (IAMNet) in Barbados from October 6 to 9, 2025. This prestigious event, organized in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank’s Independent Consultation and Investigation Mechanism (MICI) and the Office of the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, has drawn nearly 70 accountability professionals from development finance institutions worldwide. Attendees include representatives from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other global financial entities. IAMNet, established to foster cooperation among independent accountability bodies, aims to promote best practices in addressing complaints related to development projects, particularly those concerning environmental and social impacts. CDB President, Mr. Daniel Best, emphasized the importance of accountability in development finance, stating, ‘As development challenges grow more complex, strong accountability frameworks become even more critical.’ The conference agenda addresses pressing issues such as the stagnation of Sustainable Development Goals progress, declining aid budgets, and climate-related disasters. Key topics include IAM policy reviews, safeguarding mechanisms for complainants, accountability in climate projects, technological innovations, and strategies to combat retaliation. A dedicated session on October 8 will focus on capacity building for civil society organizations, early conflict resolution, and strengthening collaborations between IAMs and development advocates. Mr. Best highlighted the critical role of accountability in the Caribbean, noting, ‘In the Caribbean, accountability isn’t a luxury; it’s a matter of survival.’ Since 2015, CDB has maintained the Office of Integrity, Compliance, and Accountability, ensuring institutional integrity and ethical practices through its Projects Complaints Mechanism and whistleblowing procedures.
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DLP’s Rosie Douglas lecture to host speaker Dr Ralph Gonsalves on 25th anniversary of his death
The Dominica Labour Party (DLP) is preparing to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the passing of Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas, the late Prime Minister of Dominica, with the annual Rosie Douglas Memorial Lecture. Scheduled for October 9, 2025, at the State House Conference Room, the event will feature Hon. Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as the keynote speaker. Dr. Gonsalves, a close associate of Douglas, is expected to address pivotal themes that defined Douglas’s political career, such as regional unity, people-centered development, and strengthening ties between the Caribbean, Africa, and the global community. The DLP emphasized that the event is open to all who wish to honor Douglas’s enduring legacy, describing him as a visionary leader whose dedication to social justice and Caribbean unity left a profound impact on Dominica and the region. Douglas, who passed away on October 1, 2000, served as Prime Minister for only eight months following his election on January 31 of that year. The Memorial Lecture provides a platform to reflect on his contributions to nation-building and the empowerment of small states. The event will commence at 6:30 PM.
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Dominica Football Association announces selection of the Senior Men’s Football National Team
In preparation for the upcoming international matches scheduled for November and March, the Technical Staff of the Senior Men’s National Team has unveiled a roster of 36 local players. The selected athletes hail from various clubs across the region, including Dublanc FC, We United FC, Roosevelt Skerrit Bombers FC, Mahaut FC, Pointe Michel FC, Harlem United FC, East Central FC, South East FC, and St. Joseph FC. Among the notable names are Jerome Burkard, Jaheem Cuffy, Briel Thomas, Marcus Bredas, and Jervanie Xavier, alongside emerging talents such as Cobin Paul, Travist Joseph, and Savio Anselm. Training sessions commenced on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Stockfarm Technical Centre, marking the beginning of an intensive preparation phase. This initiative underscores the team’s commitment to leveraging homegrown talent and fostering a competitive edge on the international stage. The diverse pool of players reflects a strategic blend of experience and youthful vigor, aiming to deliver a robust performance in the forthcoming fixtures.
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Two decades in: Deepening trust ahead for Dominica and China, says Ambassador Chu
Chinese Ambassador to Dominica, His Excellency Chu Maoming, has expressed optimism about the deepening political trust and cooperation between China and Dominica. Speaking at a reception commemorating the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, held at the Chinese Embassy in Morne Daniel, Ambassador Chu highlighted the progress in bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties 20 years ago. He emphasized the pivotal role of head-of-state diplomacy, particularly the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit in Beijing, in guiding the relationship forward. Ambassador Chu reiterated China’s appreciation for Dominica’s steadfast commitment to the one-China principle and outlined future collaboration in areas such as mutual support on core interests, advancing global initiatives, and safeguarding the international order. Practical cooperation in agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure has already yielded significant results, with key projects like the international airport and post-hurricane school reconstruction progressing efficiently. Cultural exchanges have also flourished, with Chinese intangible cultural heritage, Kung Fu, and cuisine making a lasting impact in Dominica. The Confucius Classroom at Dominica State College continues to promote Chinese language and culture, with plans for a study tour to China. Ambassador Chu expressed confidence that closer people-to-people exchanges will further strengthen the foundation of trust and friendship between the two nations.
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Teachers remain fuel for any educational advancement, says minister
In a heartfelt address following World Teachers Day on October 3, Education Minister Octavia Alfred underscored the indispensable role of teachers in the success of educational reform and technological advancement. She emphasized that no matter how ambitious policies or modern infrastructure may be, the true catalysts of change are the educators who stand at the forefront of classrooms every day. ‘It is you, our teachers, who turn policy into practice, transform curriculum into life experiences, and shape students into not just future workers but responsible citizens today,’ Alfred stated. She acknowledged the evolving global education landscape, driven by digital learning, the demand for new skills, and pressing social and environmental challenges. Despite these complexities, teachers worldwide are adapting to new technologies, addressing diverse learning needs, and tackling social issues, often with limited resources. Alfred praised their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment, calling them role models of dedication and sacrifice. She also highlighted the distinction between technology and human connection, noting that while AI can process data, only teachers can inspire understanding, instill values, and nurture empathy. Alfred reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting teachers through enhanced training, professional development, and fair recognition, stating that true educational transformation begins with the human touch of educators.
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Dominica and Barbados sign MOU to advance sustainable tourism
In a landmark move to bolster their tourism sectors, the governments of Dominica and Barbados have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the allure of both destinations and crafting innovative vacation experiences for international travelers. The agreement was officially sealed at the Hilton Barbados Resort during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), a key regional event dedicated to advancing tourism development.
Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), unveiled the partnership, underscoring its strategic importance. ‘Through this MOU, Dominica and Barbados, via their respective tourism marketing entities—the Discover Dominica Authority and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.—are taking a significant step to amplify their appeal, promote sustainable tourism, and create novel travel experiences,’ Williams remarked.
The MOU establishes a collaborative framework focused on joint marketing efforts, knowledge exchange, and enhancing the visitor experience across both nations. Williams highlighted the agreement’s timely nature, coinciding with rising interest in Caribbean travel from major markets such as Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Latin America. ‘This partnership is particularly opportune as the Caribbean continues to draw travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences,’ she noted.
To ensure the MOU’s effective execution, a joint working group will be formed to oversee the development of a detailed action plan. ‘The group will monitor progress, provide biannual updates, optimize strategies as needed, and ensure that both nations reap economic benefits,’ Williams explained.
Williams also emphasized the broader regional implications of the agreement, connecting it to the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s ‘Re-imagine Tourism’ initiative. ‘Dominica and Barbados will serve as exemplars of unity, embodying the ‘one sea, one voice, one Caribbean’ ethos through this collaboration,’ she concluded.