The Family Planning Association of Trinidad and Tobago (FPATT) and the non-governmental organisation Feminitt Caribbean have welcomed the government’s announcement of a $5 million women’s health fund aimed at addressing period poverty. The initiative, set to launch in January 2026, will focus on providing free menstrual kits in educational institutions and promoting menstrual health education to dismantle societal stigmas. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo revealed the fund during the October 13 budget presentation, highlighting its collaboration with the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services and other stakeholders to ensure sustainability. FPATT Executive Director Jill De Bourg praised the initiative, emphasizing that access to affordable menstrual products is crucial for women and girls to participate fully in educational, social, and economic activities without barriers. The fund will also include educational programmes targeting men and boys to foster inclusivity. Feminitt Caribbean’s Safe Cycle Initiative, launched in 2020, has already made strides in menstrual health education and service delivery, including the establishment of the Safe Cycle Care Bank in 2021. Dr. TeHilla Paul, Feminitt’s Safe Cycle programme lead, called for further legislative measures, such as a Menstrual Equity Act and a ‘Period Card,’ to ensure access to free gynaecology services. The issue of period poverty was also addressed in a December 2023 joint select committee, which recommended comprehensive measures, including menstrual health education, product provision in schools, and cross-ministerial coordination.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Diversification through eyes of calypso
Trinidad and Tobago, once buoyed by the oil boom, now grapples with the repercussions of mismanagement, corruption, and economic decline. As the nation faces an uncertain future, the voices of calypso artists emerge as powerful advocates for change, offering both critique and solutions. Dara E Healy, a performing artist and founder of the Idakeda Group, reflects on the enduring relevance of calypso music in addressing societal issues and fostering cultural resilience. Despite the government’s persistent neglect of the arts as a strategic economic force, events like Tobago’s carnival demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving and amplifying local culture. Healy draws inspiration from iconic calypsonians who, over decades, have fearlessly addressed systemic failures. Tobago Crusoe’s 1983 calypso, *Don’t Cry Now*, highlighted the nation’s poor decisions, from neglecting agriculture to extravagant spending, while Mighty Chalkdust in 1968 urged a return to local practices to combat economic devaluation. Attila the Hun’s 1937 critique of financial mismanagement and Mighty Shadow’s 1994 *Poverty is Hell* further underscore the enduring inequities in society. These artists, Healy argues, serve as cultural practitioners who compel society to confront its flaws and seek collective advancement. Their messages remain relevant today, urging citizens to take responsibility for the nation’s future. As Trinidad and Tobago navigates its post-oil era, the legacy of calypso music offers a roadmap for economic diversification, cultural preservation, and social justice.
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SSFL hit with sponsorship cuts, travel issues…league working to improve shortcomings
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) has encountered significant hurdles this season, including financial constraints, sponsorship cuts, and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, SSFL President Merere Gonzales has reassured the public that the league is actively addressing these problems to maintain its integrity and competitiveness. The 2025 season began with over 100 schools registering, though some withdrew due to logistical difficulties. Gonzales emphasized that withdrawing before fixtures are released is the honorable approach, as post-release withdrawals can result in a two-year ban. The league has also faced issues with the quality of school home venues, particularly in the championship and lower divisions. In one instance, a team in the Central Zone attempted to mark their field with flour minutes before a match, which the referee deemed unacceptable. Many schools without corporate sponsorship struggle to prepare their grounds adequately. Gonzales highlighted the need for more support from relevant authorities to ensure playable and credible standards. Financial challenges have been exacerbated by the withdrawal of sponsorships from the National Gas Company (NGC) and Shell, which has impacted the league’s operations, including the planned inaugural girls premiership. The TT Football Association (TTFA) is collaborating with the SSFL to ensure the girls premiership launches in 2026. Additionally, First Citizens has narrowed its sponsorship to the boys championship, while Coca-Cola remains the title sponsor of the Intercol competition. Traveling schools, particularly those moving to and from Tobago, now have to fund their own travel, leading to postponed games and fixture congestion. The SSFL is also facing broadcasting hardships following the shutdown of SportsMax, but is forming partnerships with Digicel, Rush, and TT Television (TTT) to broadcast matches. In the interim, matches are being broadcast on Tiger Tanks International, 360TV, and Tobago Sports Live. Despite these challenges, the SSFL remains committed to building student-athletes across all divisions. The league has introduced monthly off-season activities, including nutrition, performance, and mental health workshops, to keep schools engaged and prepare student-athletes for the next season.
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Scenes from J’Ouvert celebrations for Tobago carnival
The streets of Scarborough, Tobago, came alive on October 25 as thousands of revellers gathered for the vibrant J’Ouvert celebrations, marking the largest street festival of the still relatively new Tobago Carnival on the global calendar. The event, characterized by its infectious energy and colorful displays, saw a mix of locals, returning Trinbagonians from abroad, and international visitors joining in the festivities. The standout band, Fog Angels, led the parade, while spectators and participants alike reveled in the lively atmosphere. Despite the large presence of police and defense forces, the event maintained its reputation as a clean and safe celebration, with revellers freely taking command of the streets. Soca music blared from speakers, and foam-covered partygoers danced with unbridled joy. The event also featured unique moments, such as a mas player being towed in a wheelbarrow and others proudly waving their national flags. Tobago Carnival, though new to the global stage, has quickly established itself as a must-attend event, drawing thousands to its vibrant and inclusive celebrations.
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Protesters condemn US ‘imperial arrogance’ in Caribbean
On October 24, approximately 20 demonstrators gathered peacefully outside the US Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, to protest what they termed as US aggression in the Caribbean. The protest, held at Queen’s Park Savannah, was organized by activists and representatives from various civil society organizations, who called for the protection of regional sovereignty and the preservation of the Caribbean as a “zone of peace.”
Among the participants was Abeo Jackson, a radio/television host and new mother, who expressed deep concern over the future of her child in a region she believes is under threat. Jackson condemned the extrajudicial killing of 43 men by US forces in the Caribbean, which the US justified as an attack on narco-trafficking. She described the incident as a violent desecration of regional sovereignty and criticized the Trinidad and Tobago government for its silence on the matter.
“This is not about drugs. It is about natural resources, oil, and power,” Jackson asserted. She accused the government of aligning with US military objectives, calling it a betrayal of the Caribbean consensus that the region must remain a zone of peace. Jackson emphasized that Caribbean sovereignty is not for sale and that Caribbean lives should not be treated as collateral damage.
Shan-Nia Lewis, a young protester, delivered an impassioned speech linking global conflicts to regional vulnerability. She expressed frustration over the government’s silence following the deaths of two Trinidad and Tobago nationals allegedly killed in recent US airstrikes. Lewis warned that young people would bear the brunt of any escalation in regional tensions.
Zakiya Uzoma-Wadada, Chairman of the Emancipation Support Committee (ESC), also condemned US military operations in regional waters, describing them as a threat to peace and sovereignty. Wadada criticized the US’s intensified military buildup off Venezuela’s coast, calling it a reassertion of the Monroe Doctrine and a smokescreen for broader geopolitical objectives, including possible regime change in Venezuela.
David Abdulah, political leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ), commended former Caricom heads of government for issuing a joint statement rejecting military intervention and reaffirming the region as a “zone of peace.” He condemned the recent docking of a US destroyer off Trinidad’s coast, calling it an “abomination” and warning that any attempt at regime change in Venezuela would destabilize the entire region.
The protesters collectively demanded an end to US military intervention in the Caribbean, urging regional unity and the protection of sovereignty and peace.
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Woodland farmer robbed after fake Facebook cattle sale
A Woodland farmer fell victim to a brazen armed robbery after responding to a social media advertisement to purchase cattle. The incident occurred on October 24, when the farmer traveled to Pangola Road, Point Fortin, in his pickup truck at approximately 9:30 a.m. to meet a seller he had contacted through a Facebook group. Upon arrival, the farmer engaged in a conversation with two men. Suddenly, one of the individuals brandished a firearm and declared a robbery. The second suspect swiftly seized the farmer’s phone and wallet containing $2,400, which had been concealed under the passenger seat of the pickup. The assailants then fled into nearby bushes. Authorities from the Point Fortin Police Station have launched an investigation into the incident, though no arrests have been made yet. This case highlights the risks associated with online transactions and the importance of exercising caution when meeting strangers for business purposes.
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SSFL title race heats up with pair of top-five showdowns
The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division season is heating up as four pivotal matches are set to unfold on October 25, starting at 3:30 pm. These games could significantly influence the title race, with the top five teams all in action.
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Tropical Storm forces postponement of Army’s return leg with Mt Pleasant
The semifinal matches of the 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup have been rescheduled due to the anticipated impact of Tropical Storm Melissa in Jamaica. The second leg between Defence Force and Mount Pleasant Football Academy, originally set for October 29, has been moved to November 5. This decision was announced by Concacaf’s chief football competitions officer, Carlos Fernandez, who emphasized the need to prioritize the safety of players, officials, and fans. Jamaica’s Meteorological Office had earlier upgraded the country’s alert level from a hurricane watch to a hurricane warning on October 24. The first leg of the match, held on October 22 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, saw Mount Pleasant dominate with a 5-1 victory over Defence Force. Raheem Edwards scored twice, while Kimoni Bailey, Shaqueil Bradford, and Warner Brown added to the tally. Kaihim Thomas managed a late consolation goal for Defence Force. The other semifinal, an all-Dominican Republic clash between O&M FC and Cibao FC, has also been rescheduled. The first leg will now take place on October 30, with the second leg on November 6. The Caribbean Cup champion will secure a direct spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, while the second- and third-placed teams will enter the first round.
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Tancoo: Build wealth, don’t depend on NIS
Finance Minister Dave Tancoo has issued a stark warning about Trinidad and Tobago’s rapidly aging population, emphasizing its profound implications for the country’s economic stability. Speaking at the TT Stock Exchange’s Capital Markets and Investor Conference in Port of Spain on October 24, Tancoo highlighted the urgent need for reforms to the National Insurance System (NIS) and initiatives to mobilize domestic capital. He revealed that the proportion of citizens aged 65 and older has surged from 5% in 1980 to over 11% today, with projections indicating it will exceed 26% by 2060. This demographic shift, he cautioned, threatens the sustainability of the NIS, which is already paying out more in benefits than it collects in contributions. Tancoo warned that without immediate action, the National Insurance Fund could be depleted by 2032, leaving thousands of retirees without support. To address this, the government plans to increase NIS contribution rates by 3% in 2026 and 2027, gradually raise the retirement age starting in 2028, and deepen the country’s capital markets. Tancoo also announced the launch of a $1 billion National Investment Fund bond and a state-sponsored Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) to encourage domestic investment and unlock value in public assets. These measures, he stressed, are essential to ensuring financial security for retirees and fostering long-term economic growth.
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Carter into 50m butterfly final in final leg of Swimming World Cup
Trinidad and Tobago’s elite swimmer, Dylan Carter, is set to conclude his 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup journey with a determined push for a podium finish in Toronto, Canada. On October 25, Carter will compete in the men’s 50-meter butterfly final at 6:32 PM (TT time), aiming to cap off his campaign with a medal. Earlier in the day, during the preliminary rounds, the 29-year-old secured second place in heat four with a time of 22.49 seconds, trailing behind Canada’s Ilya Kharun, who dominated with a blistering 21.85 seconds—the fastest time across all heats. Carter’s performance ranked seventh overall in the prelims, signaling the need for a stellar effort in the final to add to his two bronze medals earned earlier in the competition. In the first leg of the Swimming World Cup in Indiana, Kharun claimed gold in the 50m butterfly with a time of 21.86 seconds, while Carter finished fifth in 22.57 seconds. The second leg in Illinois saw Kharun repeat his golden feat in 21.69 seconds, with Carter placing seventh at 22.48 seconds. Carter’s previous successes include bronze medals in the 50m backstroke (first leg) and 50m freestyle (second leg), showcasing his versatility and determination throughout the tournament.