The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning about the deepening humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where rampant gang violence is severely hindering aid delivery and leaving millions at risk of starvation. Reports from the Caribbean nation reveal that intense fighting, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, has blocked humanitarian access and disrupted the supply of essential goods. The WFP has been forced to cut food rations and suspend critical programs due to funding shortages, exacerbating the hunger crisis. UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq highlighted that the agency has had to halt hot meals for displaced families and reduce food rations by half. Additionally, the lack of resources has prevented the WFP from stockpiling food ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season, leaving the country vulnerable to natural disasters. The crisis is further compounded by the fact that many farmers are unable to access markets due to insecurity, driving food prices even higher. Much of Haiti remains under the control of heavily armed gangs, whose influence has expanded beyond Port-au-Prince. Regional leaders, including CARICOM, have attempted to stabilize the situation, but efforts have been met with resistance from gang leaders like Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier. In response, the UN Security Council has approved the creation of a new Gang Suppression Force (GSF) to replace the Kenyan-led mission. The GSF, comprising 5,550 personnel, will work with Haitian authorities to neutralize gangs, protect critical infrastructure, and facilitate humanitarian access. Despite the challenges, the WFP has assisted over two million people since January and continues to support long-term food security initiatives, including school meal programs and community infrastructure projects. However, Haiti remains one of only five countries globally facing catastrophic hunger levels, with 5.7 million Haitians experiencing acute food insecurity. The WFP has appealed for $139 million in funding over the next year to address the crisis.
标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis
圣基茨和尼维斯
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Minister Duggins pledges St. Kitts and Nevis’ role in sustainable agriculture
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — In a significant declaration during the 2025 Agriculture Open Day, Agriculture Minister Samal Duggins affirmed St. Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to spearheading sustainable agricultural practices. The event, held as part of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA), saw Duggins emphasize the nation’s readiness to contribute to global sustainability efforts in agriculture. ‘The road will be long, and the challenges will be tough,’ Duggins acknowledged, ‘but St. Kitts and Nevis is committed to playing a pivotal role in this crucial endeavor.’ This pledge aligns with the government’s broader sustainable island agenda, which aims to achieve self-sufficiency across all sectors. The CWA, focusing on bolstering the region’s agricultural sector, underscores the importance of collaboration and persistence. Duggins highlighted the ’25 by 2025′ initiative, a regional effort to reduce the Caribbean’s $3 billion annual food import bill by 25% by the end of this year through increased local food production. In St. Kitts and Nevis, partnerships with regional and international stakeholders have already yielded positive results, with significant growth in the fishery and crop sectors. Duggins stressed the need for sustainable and inclusive growth, particularly by engaging young farmers to ensure future resilience. The two-day Agriculture Open Day, hosted along the Kim Collins Highway, serves as a platform to showcase these advancements and foster further collaboration.
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Latin America, Caribbean face risk of 165,000 preventable deaths without stronger primary health care
A groundbreaking report released by the World Bank and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Lancet Regional Health Americas Commission has issued a stark warning: Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) could face up to 165,000 preventable deaths if primary health care (PHC) systems are not significantly strengthened. The report, unveiled during the 62nd Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers at PAHO headquarters in Washington, DC, underscores the dire consequences of failing to build resilience into the region’s health infrastructure. Health shocks, such as pandemics or natural disasters, could lead to catastrophic human and economic losses, including up to 11,300 maternal deaths, 10,000 child deaths, and over 149,000 deaths from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The societal costs of such disruptions are estimated to range between $7 billion and $37 billion. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, emphasized that resilience in PHC is not optional but essential for health security, social stability, and economic growth. The report also highlighted the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the LAC region, which accounted for nearly 30% of global deaths. Jaime Saavedra, World Bank Director of Human Development for the region, stressed that strengthening PHC is one of the most pressing health challenges facing Latin America and the Caribbean. The Commission has issued a series of recommendations aimed at mitigating the impact of future health crises and bolstering economic resilience through improved PHC systems.
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Adames Sentenced to Prison for Indecent Assault
In a significant legal development, Rafael Adames has been sentenced to five years in prison for the crime of indecent assault. The ruling was issued by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley, KC, at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 25, 2025. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, led to Adames pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on July 8, 2025. His sentencing was postponed until September 2025. Notably, the court has deducted the 10 months and 27 days Adames spent on remand from his total sentence. Under current legal provisions, Adames is required to serve two-thirds of his sentence, contingent upon good behaviour. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing serious offences and ensuring justice for victims.
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Blake Sentenced to Four Years for House Breaking and Larceny
In a significant legal development, Gibson Blake from Conaree, St. Kitts, has been sentenced to four years in His Majesty’s Prison for charges of House Breaking and Larceny. The incident, which took place in January 2025, culminated in Blake’s appearance before Justice Iain Morley KC at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 26, 2025, where the verdict was pronounced. Blake, who had been in custody since his arrest, will have the time already served—one year, eight months, and 21 days—deducted from his total sentence after remission is applied. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing property crimes and ensuring justice for affected parties.
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CWA pushing for modern farming at Agriculture Week
As the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) unfolds in Basseterre, St. Kitts, Acting Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley has emphasized the urgent need to transition from traditional farming practices to modern, climate-resilient methods. Addressing regional and international stakeholders, Hanley highlighted the pivotal role of technology and innovation in transforming the agricultural sector, particularly in St. Kitts and Nevis. He stressed that traditional farming alone is insufficient to meet contemporary challenges, advocating for the adoption of advanced techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, climate-smart farming, improved irrigation, and renewable energy to power farms. Hanley acknowledged the sector’s inherent difficulties, including hurricanes, droughts, pest outbreaks, rising costs, and market access issues, but expressed confidence in the resilience of Caribbean people. He called for strengthened regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and a renewed commitment to making agriculture a sector of pride and prosperity. Food security and the development of the next generation of farmers remain central to the region’s agenda, with new initiatives supporting aquaculture, agri-parks, livestock production, and access to financing and training. Hanley also urged young people to view agriculture as a viable and innovative career path, dispelling outdated perceptions of the sector. Agriculture Minister Samal Duggins echoed these sentiments, describing agriculture as the lifeblood of the Caribbean people and a critical component of the region’s future.
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SKELEC celebrates 14 years of Love, Light & Power
The St. Kitts Electricity Company Ltd. (SKELEC) celebrated its 14th anniversary with a grand event themed ‘Celebrating 14 Years of Love, Light & Power.’ Held in Basseterre, St. Kitts, on September 30, 2025, the occasion highlighted the company’s journey, its dedicated workforce, and the loyal customers who have been integral to its success. The celebration included a series of awards recognizing exceptional employees and teams. Among the honorees were Mahesh Nariani, who received the Power Luminary Award for his strategic leadership, and Claricia Langley-Stevens, awarded for managerial excellence. Royan Matthew was celebrated for exemplary customer service, while Sandra Gardner, Recaldo Gardener, and Garfield Thomas were recognized as Supervisors of the Year. The Information Technology Department was named Department of the Year for its role in driving digital transformation. Special recognition was also given to employees who contributed to restoration efforts after Tropical Storm Erin. The General Manager’s Award was presented to Jamal Matthew, Akeem Williams, Recaldo Gardener, and Dion Walters for their resilience. Additionally, 20 employees received the Bright Spark Award for their creativity and innovation. The anniversary festivities culminated in a Customer Appreciation Day on September 18, 2025, where attendees enjoyed branded giveaways, complimentary health screenings, and therapeutic massages. SKELEC’s General Manager, Mr. Clement Williams, emphasized the company’s commitment to its customers and community, stating, ‘This anniversary is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a tribute to the people who have stood with us over the years.’ Looking ahead, SKELEC remains focused on innovation, sustainability, and strengthening its community ties.
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Liberty Caribbean concludes successful North Caribbean Leadership Summit
PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten (September 30th, 2025) – Liberty Caribbean, the prominent telecommunications provider operating Flow and Liberty Business, has successfully concluded its North Caribbean Leadership Summit. The event brought together senior executives and business leaders from Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Cayman Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, Turks & Caicos, Montserrat, and St. Maarten. Held at the Sonesta Resort and Conference Centre in St. Maarten, the multi-day summit focused on two key priorities: delivering exceptional customer service and fostering adaptive leadership to ensure sustainable regional growth. Participants discussed strategies to leverage connectivity for tangible community benefits, including advancements in healthcare, education, and business opportunities. A significant emphasis was placed on leadership development, talent retention, and a stakeholder-centric approach to swiftly address evolving customer needs. Susanna O’Sullivan, Vice President for North Caribbean at Liberty Caribbean, highlighted the company’s commitment to empowering communities and driving economic opportunities. The summit concluded with a clear action plan centered on partnerships, operational discipline, and innovation to provide reliable, future-ready connectivity. Liberty Caribbean plans to implement these strategies across the North Caribbean in the coming months, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the region’s digital transformation.
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One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Monday, October 06, 2025
The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is set to convene on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre. The session will mark the first reading of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority Agreement Bill, 2025. This legislative move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the Rule of Law as part of its broader good governance agenda. The Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew, who oversees multiple key portfolios including Finance, National Security, and Health, will introduce the Bill. The proceedings will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM), TV Channel 5 in St. Kitts, Channel 98 in Nevis, and streamed online at www.zizonline.com. Copies of the Bill will be accessible on the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service website (www.sknis.gov.kn) and its Facebook page once available.
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CMO Laws praises PAHO for partnership in tackling NCDs
St. Kitts and Nevis is reaping significant benefits from its collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in addressing the escalating issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. Hazel Laws, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), expressed her gratitude for PAHO’s support during the 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers in Washington, D.C. She underscored the importance of this partnership in enhancing the Federation’s healthcare sector. Dr. Laws, speaking at the meeting’s opening session on September 29, outlined recent health initiatives and strategies to tackle critical medical challenges. In an interview with SKNVibes News, she emphasized the need to deepen collaboration with PAHO, particularly in scaling up responses to NCDs, which she identified as the most significant health challenge. She highlighted the importance of prevention through addressing risk factors, early detection, and effective management of patients. The meeting also served as a platform for regional health ministers to exchange strategies. Guyana’s Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, stressed the importance of PAHO’s strategic plan in advancing healthcare across the Americas. He pointed out that NCDs, such as hypertension, heart disease, and cancer, are a major global health concern, contributing to approximately 43 million deaths annually, with 18 million being premature. Dr. Anthony shared that Guyana has implemented several programs, including PAHO’s HEARTS initiative, which focuses on cardiovascular disease prevention and management. Additionally, Guyana is working towards eliminating cervical cancer through HPV vaccinations for both boys and girls. The 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers is set to conclude on October 3.