标签： Suriname

In a significant humanitarian effort, the Lions Club Paramaribo Central has donated 10 tons of rice to aid victims of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica. The donation was handed over to the National Coordination Center for Disaster Management (NCCR), which will oversee the distribution of the relief supplies. The need is urgent, with critical shortages of drinking water, batteries, and construction materials reported in the affected areas. Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba over the past few days, with international news sources confirming 49 fatalities. Glen Tewari, the project committee chairman, emphasized the Lions Club’s mission, stating, ‘Our slogan is We Serve. As Lions, it is our duty to extend a helping hand to humanity.’ The donation, comprising 1,000 bags of 10-kilogram rice, was made possible with the support of NV Sunrise. The Lions Club has a history of mobilizing during disasters, both domestically and internationally. Colonel Jerry Slijngaard, NCCR coordinator, noted that the center is awaiting clearance to ship the rice, as ports in the affected regions remain closed. ‘Rice is at the top of the list of urgent needs,’ Slijngaard said. ‘Additionally, there is a high demand for construction materials, such as zinc sheets, batteries due to power outages, and drinking water. Suriname will contribute to the best of its ability—what we have, we will share.’

A significant fire erupted on Saturday evening in a warehouse owned by Haukes, located on Martin Luther Kingweg. Initial reports indicated that the facility stored various chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, a highly hazardous substance. The emergency alert was immediately relayed to the Onverdacht fire station, which responded swiftly with assistance from the Lelydorp station. Due to the potential presence of dangerous materials, the duty officer was promptly informed. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed the presence of ammonium nitrate in the burning warehouse. Their rapid and effective response prevented the fire from spreading further. The blaze was brought under control by approximately 7:50 PM, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation by authorities.

In a significant gesture of national pride and support, Hakrinbank NV has contributed SRD 2 million (approximately USD 50,000) to the Commission for the 50th Anniversary of Suriname’s Independence. The symbolic cheque was presented on Friday by Claire Wydh, the bank’s Deputy Director of Commerce, to Commission Chairman Klebert Drenthe. This donation underscores the bank’s commitment to Suriname’s development and its confidence in the nation’s future. Wydh emphasized that the contribution is not only a financial boost but also a symbolic nod to the country’s golden jubilee, with the amount reflecting the 50-year milestone. Hakrinbank, which will celebrate its 90th anniversary in June 2026, views this donation as a meaningful way to align its legacy with Suriname’s journey of growth and self-reliance. The bank highlighted that Suriname’s independence represents values of resilience, prosperity, and faith in local potential—principles that Hakrinbank itself champions. Wydh further noted that with nine decades of experience in the financial sector, the bank remains dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and community engagement. Drenthe expressed gratitude to Hakrinbank and other corporate contributors supporting the Srefidensi celebrations. The funds will be allocated to various cultural and educational initiatives, including the production of the Srefidensi song and video. A total of 50 events are planned throughout November to commemorate Suriname’s independence, with a national budget of SRD 65 million allocated for the festivities.

The Anton de Kom University of Suriname (AdeKUS) marked its 57th anniversary with a traditional Dies Natalis ceremony held at the historic Centrumkerk. The event, centered on themes of knowledge, growth, and awareness, highlighted the university’s pivotal role in Suriname’s development. President Jennifer Simons, alongside acting Minister of Education, Science, and Culture Patrick Brunings, emphasized the importance of knowledge and critical thinking as cornerstones of progress. ‘Let this 57th anniversary remind us of our responsibilities and the trust placed in us,’ the President stated. She urged the university to not only reflect on past achievements but also actively shape the future, referencing Suriname’s 50th anniversary of independence as a call to transform ‘Srefidensi’ (independence) into ‘Srefidenki’ (self-reliance). The celebration featured speeches by Shanti Venetiaan, Chair of the University Board, and political scientist Hans Breeveld, who delivered the Dies lecture on ‘Independence as a Process and a Challenge.’ Venetiaan presented the academic year 2024–2025 report, noting improvements in infrastructure and collaborations with the National Development Bank for student loans. However, she highlighted a decline in bachelor program enrollments, attributing it to students’ financial challenges. The evening concluded with awards for top graduates, including Meredith Woei, the highest achiever in the Law program, who shared her journey of discipline and dedication.

The socio-cultural organization Naks unveiled the ninth edition of its Naks-Iconenkalender on Friday, celebrating Surinamese individuals who have made significant contributions to society. Each month of the 2026 calendar highlights a ‘dya dya Sranan Man of Sranan Uma’—a Surinamese who has left a lasting, positive impact through their dedication and talent. Alongside the calendar launch, an exhibition at Naks’ cultural center allows the public to explore the lives and achievements of the twelve icons featured in 2026. Each honoree received an award engraved with the phrase ‘GRANI FITI YU BIKASI YU GI SRANAN GRANI,’ symbolizing their enduring legacy. The calendar, published in both Dutch and Sranantongo since 2018, includes an inspiring ‘odo’ (proverb) for each month. This initiative aims to honor Surinamese who excel in their fields and serve as role models for all generations. Siegmien Staphorst, Naks’ chairperson, emphasized the importance of recognizing living contributors, stating, ‘We aim to highlight those who continue to positively influence society and inspire the youth.’ The exhibition, running from November 3 to 14, is free to the public and expects to attract around 800 secondary school students from Paramaribo and surrounding districts. Activities such as guided tours, discussions, and creative tasks will encourage young attendees to reflect on identity, dedication, and community spirit.