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- ZHTF-SVG COMMENCES IMPLEMENTATION of ‘EU-CaN CULTIVATINGFUTURES’ PROJECT WITH EUROPEAN UNION SUPPORT
The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Zero Hunger Trust Fund (ZHTF-SVG) has officially commenced implementation of the EU-funded „Cultivating Futures – Empowering Youths for a Food Secure Region‟ project; which is an 18-month regional initiative aimed at strengthening food security, youth engagement and sustainable food systems across four Eastern Caribbean countries. The project, which officially began on 27th March 2026, is funded by the European Union, under its EU Caribbean Fund for Nutrition (EU-CaN) programme, which is a comprehensive four-year food security initiative targeting six countries within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Implemented across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Grenada and Dominica, the project will support the development and expansion of resilient and sustainable school feeding systems through the establishment and enhancement of ecological school gardens in vulnerable communities. It also seeks to improve access to nutritious, locally grown food within schools while creating opportunities for youths and educators to participate in practical, garden-based learning experiences focused on climate-smart agriculture, nutrition, environmental sustainability and food systems education. Over the course of the project, ecological school gardens will be established or enhanced in ten (10) primary schools across the participating countries, benefiting approximately 1,600 students between the ages of 5 and 11 years. The initiative will also provide relevant training and technical support for teachers, cooks, administrators and other key school stakeholders in areas including sustainable agriculture, garden management, nutrition, and menu planning. In addition to strengthening school feeding programmes, the project will introduce practical student activities, public education discussions, social awareness campaigns and a regional „Garden-to-Lunch‟ School Garden Competition aimed at encouraging innovation, participation, and excellence among participating schools. Speaking on the commencement of the initiative, Director and CEO of the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, Safiya Horne-Bique, said the project represents an important investment in the future of the region‟s food systems and young people. “Cultivating Futures is a transformative initiative that places children and communities at the centre of sustainable food security efforts within the Caribbean. Through this project, we are not only supporting schools with access to fresh, nutritious produce, but we are also creating opportunities for young people to develop a deeper understanding of agriculture, nutrition, environmental stewardship, and resilience,” Horne-Bique stated. She added that the initiative reflects the growing importance of regional collaboration in addressing shared food security challenges. “Small island developing states continue to face increasing pressures linked to climate change, economic disruptions and food import dependence. This project demonstrates the value of regional partnerships and practical community- based solutions that empower our youth while strengthening local food systems for generations to come,” she said. Project Coordinator Chanda Davis also highlighted the project‟s focus on experiential learning and youth engagement. “This initiative is designed to make agriculture and food sustainability more accessible, engaging and meaningful for children. By integrating ecological school gardens into the learning environment, students will have the opportunity to actively participate in growing food, understanding healthy diets, and building lifelong skills connected to sustainability and self-sufficiency,” explained Davis. She noted that the project‟s activities are intended to create long-term impact beyond the classroom. “We want students to see agriculture not simply as an activity, but as an important part of community resilience, entrepreneurship and national development. The practical experiences provided through this project can inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens and future agricultural leaders throughout the region,” she added. The project forms part of ongoing regional and international efforts to improve nutrition outcomes, strengthen climate resilience, and reduce food insecurity among vulnerable populations within the Caribbean. A formal call for schools interested in participating in the initiative will soon be launched within the participating countries. An official regional launch event and media briefing for the „Cultivating Futures – Empowering Youths for a Food Secure Region‟ project is scheduled to take place on June 23, 2026, in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The event is expected to bring together representatives from participating countries, regional stakeholders, government agencies and development partners involved in advancing food security and sustainable development.
- DSAA Invests EC$32,000 in Scholarships and Community Impact Initiatives
Six Dominica State College Students and Two Community Organizations Receive Funding at Annual Beneficiary Handover Ceremony - The Dominica SiFoCol Alumni Association (DSAA) awarded EC$32,000 in scholarships and community grants during its annual Beneficiary Handover Ceremony and Dominica State College (DSC) Scholarship Awards held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the UWI Open Campus Auditorium. The Association awarded EC$12,000 in scholarships to six Dominica State College students and provided two EC$10,000 community impact grants to organizations advancing social development, youth empowerment, and community support initiatives across Dominica. Investing in Students Six Dominica State College students were each awarded EC$2,000 scholarships in recognition of their academic achievement, resilience, and determination despite financial challenges. Scholarship recipients were selected by Dominica State College in consultation with DSAA and represent a diverse range of academic disciplines. Scholarship Recipients Shakira Brown - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences Kenan Nwijal - Business Administration (Management, Finance, and Tourism) Osani Nengen - Auto Mechanics Khadisha Joseph - Faculty of General Studies Rishanda Henry - Paralegal Studies Jess Vidal - Primary Education Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Hermancia Eugene Zamore, Dean of Academic Affairs at Dominica State College, congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the impact of DSAA’s continued support for students. “Today we honor individuals who have demonstrated academic vigor and perseverance while overcoming financial challenges in pursuit of their education. Because of your contribution, many students have been given the opportunity to continue their studies with greater confidence.” — Dr. H. Eugene Zamore, Dean of Academic Affairs, Dominica State College Supporting Community Impact Through its Community Social Impact Grant Initiative, DSAA also awarded EC$10,000 grants to two organizations following a competitive review and evaluation process conducted by DSAA board members together with Platinum sponsors National Bank of Dominica and Do It Center. Lifeline Ministries Inc. Lifeline Ministries received funding to support its survivor-centered response network for individuals affected by gender- based violence. The initiative provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, safe-host placements, and after-hours support services for survivors and their families across Dominica. Anse Kouanari Tourism Association Inc. Anse Kouanari Tourism Association received funding for its Community and Youth-Led River Stewardship Project, a six-month environmental initiative engaging young people in river conservation, tree planting, public awareness campaigns, and community sustainability efforts in Castle Bruce. Reflecting on the selection process and the importance of community investment, DSAA President Wayne Liburd emphasized the lasting value of giving back. “Meeting the individuals behind these projects reminded us that every investment in our students and communities creates impact far beyond a single event or ceremony. Their passion, commitment, and vision inspire the work we continue to do as an organization.” —Wayne Liburd, President, Dominica SiFoCol Alumni Association Five Years of Giving Back Since its incorporation in 2020, DSAA has continued to invest in educational, healthcare, and community development initiatives benefiting Dominicans both locally and regionally. Over the past five years, the Association has: Donated two dialysis machines and six dialysis chairs valued at approximately US$70,000 to the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital Contributed US$14,000 toward relief efforts following the La Soufrière volcanic eruption in St. Vincent Provided ongoing scholarship support to Dominica State College students Expanded community grant initiatives supporting local organizations and youth development DSAA’s flagship fundraising event, White Sunset with a Hint of Creole, now in its fifth consecutive year, continues to serve as the primary driver behind the Association’s scholarship and community impact programs. This year’s event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including: Platinum: OYO Construction, Do It Center Gold: National Bank of Dominica, Vibes Sky Lounge Silver: Belfast Estate Limited, Big Edge Financial, Fine Foods Inc., Legal Mart, Flow Dominica Bronze: Opti Precision, HHV Whitchurch Company Limited Corporate: Tropic Trading, Fresh Market, Unicom Dominica Special recognition was extended to Paul Philip, Chair of the White Sunset with a Hint of Creole Committee, and Valerie Honoré for their leadership and contributions to the success of this year’s program.
- Project 500 Officially Announces The Sale of Homes in First Phase of Dunfermline Housing Development
Project 500 announces the sale of homes within the first phase of its flagship housing development in Dunfermline, marking a major milestone in Grenada’s effort to deliver affordable, climate-smart and resilient housing solutions for Grenadian families. Project Sponsor, Randall Dolland, described the launch as one of the most important phases of the pilot initiative, as the programme now moves into the critical stage of assessing market demand and accessibility for qualifying homeowners. “We are proud to officially announce the sale of homes within the first phase of the Project 500 Housing Programme in Dunfermline,” Dolland stated. “This phase allows us to evaluate the viability of these homes for hardworking Grenadian families who have increasingly found themselves priced out of the traditional housing market, but still deserve the opportunity to own a modern, desirable, climate-smart home within a properly planned community.” Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and complete the online application process. Following submission, the Housing Authority of Grenada (HAG) will guide applicants through the next steps, including the documentation required for mortgage financing through their preferred financial institution. Project 500 officials emphasized that the eligibility criteria were specifically developed to ensure the homes benefit the programme’s intended target group of first-time property owners and middle income Grenadian families seeking a realistic pathway to homeownership. To qualify, applicants must: ● Be Grenadian citizens residing in Grenada ● Be 18 years or older ● Have a total household gross monthly income not exceeding EC$7,500 ● Demonstrate a stable and verifiable source of income ● Not currently own or co-own residential property locally or abroad ● Use the home as their primary and permanent residence ● Additionally, married applicants must apply jointly and successful applicants must remain the sole approved deed holders under the programme. As part of the pilot allocation framework, 50% of the homes in the first phase will be reserved for families currently residing in St. Andrew, while the remaining homes will be distributed equally between public servants and private sector employees. The homes were built with the future in mind, incorporating climate-smart features such as enhanced insulation, low-flow plumbing fixtures and solar energy systems to reduce long-term utility costs and improve sustainability. The wider development was intentionally designed to provide families with safe, modern and attractive living environments. The neighborhood includes lot sizes of no less than 4,700 square feet, newly built roads, sidewalks, drainage infrastructure, utility connections, green spaces and a minimum of two parking spaces per home. “Our intention was not simply to place a roof over someone’s head,” Dolland added. “Our goal was to create homes and communities that families can truly be proud of, places of comfort, dignity, security and opportunity. Places where children can grow, families can thrive, and generational wealth can become attainable for many Grenadians who once believed home- ownership was beyond their reach.” Project 500 officials noted that the future expansion and direction of the programme will be guided by the lessons learned during this pilot phase as the initiative continues to scale affordable, resilient and sustainable housing solutions across Grenada.
- Dominica U23 3x3 National Team Set to Represent Dominica in the British Virgin Islands
The Dominica Amateur Basketball Association (DABA) is pleased to officially announce the four-member national Under-23 3x3 basketball team that will represent Dominica this weekend at the ANOCES U23 3x3 Basketball Tournament in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The tournament will take place on May 16 and 17, 2026, at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in the British Virgin Islands and will feature teams from across the Caribbean, including Antigua, St. Kitts, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and host nation BVI. Representing Dominica are: Karim Daniel – PSC Falcons Andel Olivacee – 767 Sports Club Yawani Regis – PSC Falcons Rene Williams – BAA Sharks The team will be led by Head Coach Yannick Regis, while Yehudi John will travel as an official referee representing Dominica. In addition to the competition, Head Coach Yannick Regis will participate in a regional coaches workshop aimed at enhancing coaching development and strengthening basketball knowledge across the Caribbean. Yehudi John will also take part in a regional referee clinic, further contributing to the advancement of basketball officiating in Dominica. The delegation reflects DABA’s continued commitment not only to athlete development, but also to the growth and education of coaches and officials as part of the Association’s long-term vision for basketball development in Dominica. DABA extends congratulations to these young athletes, as well as Coach Regis and Referee John, for earning the opportunity to represent Dominica at the regional level. Their selection is a reflection of their hard work, dedication, and contribution to the sport locally. The Association also wishes to express sincere gratitude to the Dominica Olympic Committee for sponsoring the team’s participation in the tournament. Their continued investment in youth sports and athlete development continues to create opportunities for Dominican athletes, coaches, and officials to compete and grow regionally and internationally. The Association also recognizes the efforts of the tournament organizers and regional stakeholders in creating opportunities for Caribbean athletes to showcase their talent and gain valuable international experience in the rapidly growing 3x3 basketball discipline. This tournament forms part of DABA’s broader vision of restoring Dominica basketball to regional prominence while building a strong pathway for the next generation of national players, coaches, and officials. DABA is encouraging the Dominican public and basketball community to rally behind the team as they proudly represent the Nature Isle on the regional stage. “Dominica Back on the Regional Stage — Stepping onto the International Stage.”
- Grenada Hosts Pure Grenada Masters Cricket Tournament, Signalling a New Era inSports Tourism
The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is pleased to announce the successful hosting of the Pure Grenada Masters Cricket Tournament. The week-long event welcomed 60 visiting participants across four regional teams including the West Indies Masters, Trinidad’s Munroe Road Masters, Guyana’s North Soesdyke, and Barbados’ AMAAS Masters, competing alongside two local teams, Spice Isle Masters 1 and Spice Isle Masters 2. The tournament concluded with Guyana's North Soesdyke claiming the championship title, and Trinidad's Munroe Road Masters finishing as runners-up, in what proved to be a spirited celebration of Caribbean cricket. “The Pure Grenada Masters Cricket Tournament is a shining example of how sports tourism can fuel our local economy and showcase our island’s hospitality,” noted Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “By blending competition with strategic partnerships, we are creating meaningful experiences that benefit our service sectors and keep Grenada’s tourism momentum strong throughout the year.” Beyond the competition, the tournament served as a significant economic catalyst for the island. The influx of visiting participants drove substantial activity across the local economy, fueling growth in the hospitality, dining, and other tourism sectors. To further amplify the reach, a consumer pop-up was held on the final day, bringing local brands and businesses face-to-face with tournament guests in a vibrant marketplace setting. “As we continue to deploy our 2026 strategy, we remain fully committed to positioning Grenada as a sports tourism destination,” said Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer at the GTA. “Our aim of achieving this goal goes beyond just hosting; we intend to create a lasting impact for all Grenadians who benefit from visitors coming to our shores.” Looking ahead, the GTA sees strong potential to build Masters Cricket into an annual fixture, expanding team participation, growing spectator engagement, and deepening the integration of cultural experiences and local business activations. Voluntourism, fan packages, and increased sponsorship opportunities are all on the horizon as Grenada works to firmly establish itself as a destination of choice for regional and international sporting events.
- Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services Issues Public Guidance on Hantavirus Prevention
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services continues to monitor hantavirus and other rodent-borne diseases through ongoing national surveillance, epidemiological assessment, and collaboration with regional and international public health partners. At present, there are no confirmed cases of hantavirus disease in Dominica. Local risk assessments conducted through the national surveillance system indicate that the current public health risk remains low. However, the Ministry is maintaining heightened vigilance, particularly following periods of heavy rainfall, flooding, and poor environmental sanitation, which may increase exposure to rodents and rodent-contaminated environments. Hantavirus is a rare zoonotic disease associated with infected rodents and exposure to contaminated environments. Infection may occur through inhalation of particles contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, especially when sweeping or cleaning enclosed rodent-infested spaces. Transmission may also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, or beverages. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare and has only been documented with a specific strain identified in South America. Symptoms of hantavirus infection may develop between one and eight weeks after exposure and can initially resemble influenza or other respiratory illnesses. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, cough, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the illness may progress rapidly and require intensive medical care. Early medical attention is critical and can significantly improve outcomes. The Ministry is therefore encouraging the public to take the following preventive measures: * Keep homes, surroundings, and communities clean and free of rodent harborage * Practice proper waste disposal and environmental sanitation * Store food securely and avoid exposure to contaminated food or water * Exercise caution when cleaning enclosed or rodent-infested areas * Avoid sweeping dry rodent droppings or nests; instead, disinfect affected areas before cleaning * Use gloves, masks, and other protective measures when handling potentially contaminated materials The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services remains committed to safeguarding public health through surveillance, public education, and timely response measures. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop following possible rodent exposure. For additional information, persons may contact the Health Promotion Unit within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services at 266- 3352 or 266-3469 or their nearest health centre.
- STATEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE DOMINICA RED CROSS SOCIETY ON WORLD RED CROSS AND RED CRESCENT DAY 2026
In celebration of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2026, the President of the Dominica Red Cross Society, Reginald Winston, issued the following statement under the global theme, “United in Humanity”. All across the world, fellow human beings marginalize and attack other human beings, even those of us working voluntarily for the good of all. These actions further divide our communities and make our work more dangerous. Our theme, "United in Humanity," for this year's World Red Cross Red Crescent Day should not be just a tagline; it is a firm conviction cut from the fundamental principles of our movement. It is a poignant reminder to the world that our volunteers aren't just service providers, but they are neighbors, friends, family members, and that the people we help aren't mere victims or statistics, but are our fellow human beings. By being united in humanity, we bridge the gap between those who help and those who need it, between us and them. During the last floods which occurred in Dominica, the Dominica Red Cross, through its volunteers, used the opportunity to reclaim the narrative of our shared humanity and to reemphasize and manifest the proximity that makes our movement unique. Allow me to quote, if I may, from one of the beneficiaries in the Kalinago territory: "There are moments in life," she says, "when the weight of the world presses down so heavily that a person begins to wonder whether anyone even knows that they exist. But my entire family wish to extend our deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to the entire Dominica Red Cross. One particular volunteer made kindness even more extraordinary. She remembered me in a moment that I felt so invisible to the world and was a balm to my spirit that no words can fully capture. We, the less privileged, or poor, or displaced, who are unable to help ourselves, who sit quietly and wait, are still there." She adds, "May the Red Cross continue to be a beacon of hope for every community in Dominica, especially those of us who live in the places hardest to reach." What more can I, as President of the Dominica Red Cross, add to these sterling words but to encourage our volunteers to continue to show real courage and humanity in our work, demonstrate our care for the individual, and reemphasize by our actions the fundamental principles of this noble movement that we all have the privilege to share in service to our fellow human beings. A happy Red Cross Day to all.
- Confirmation of Nominations and Election Date for Dominica Athletics Association Executive
The Returning Officer for the upcoming Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) elections, Ms. Tania Burnett, has confirmed the list of eligible nominations received for executive positions ahead of the Association’s Annual General Meeting. As of Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM, the following nominations were duly received and met all requirements: President - Brendan Williams Vice President - Walson Pacquette Secretary General - Phillip White Assistant Secretary/Treasurer - Felicien Antoine Treasurer - Jermasha Mellow Public Relations Officer - Judy Larocque The election to confirm the above nominations will be held on, Saturday, May 23, 2026, during the Dominica Athletics Association AGM, at the Dominica Olympic Committee Conference Room from 10 AM. In accordance with Section 14.1 of the Dominica Athletics Association Constitution, the positions of, School Representative, Club Representative, Male Athlete Representative and Female Athlete Representative, will not be decided at the AGM. These positions will instead be elected at a Special General Meeting to be convened within four (4) weeks of the AGM. Details of that meeting will be communicated in due course. Media representatives and interested stakeholders are invited to follow these developments as the DAA moves to confirm its executive leadership for the upcoming term.
- Dominica Amateur Basketball Association Launches Two-Day Referee Clinic
The Dominica Amateur Basketball Association officially launched its two-day Referee Clinic today, Friday, May 8, 2026, as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening the standard of basketball officiating and overall development of the sport in Dominica. The clinic brings together local referees, aspiring officials, and basketball stakeholders for intensive training sessions focused on the latest rules interpretations, game management, mechanics, positioning, communication, and professional officiating standards. The initiative forms part of DABA’s wider strategy to improve the quality and consistency of basketball officiating across all divisions and competitions on the island. The training sessions will feature classroom instruction, on-court practical demonstrations, video analysis, and interactive discussions designed to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to officiate at a higher level. DABA emphasized that the development of referees remains a critical pillar in the advancement of basketball in Dominica, noting that quality officiating contributes significantly to player development, game management, and the overall growth and professionalism of the sport. The association also highlighted its continued commitment to investing in education and capacity building for referees, coaches, players, and administrators as part of its long-term vision for Dominican basketball. DABA encourages all participants to take full advantage of the learning opportunity and thanked the facilitators, officials, and partners supporting the successful staging of the clinic.
- Ministry of Education to Host STEM Fair 2026
The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence will host a STEM Fair on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the St. Alphonsus Parish Hall, commencing at 10:00 a.m. The STEM Fair will be held under the theme “STEM at Work: Building Industry Capacity through Ideas.” The fair will provide a national platform for students from primary and secondary schools to showcase innovative projects that demonstrate the application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to solve real-world challenges. The initiative seeks to promote innovation, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving among students while emphasizing the role of STEM education in strengthening local industry capacity and supporting national development. Members of the public are invited to view students’ displays from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm and to experience firsthand the ingenuity and talent being cultivated in schools across Dominica.
- The Executive Order of May 1 and the blockade measures announced exacerbate the suffering of the Cuban people and reinforce the threat of aggression
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejects, in the strongest terms, the Executive Order issued by the White House on May 1, 2026, which intensifies, to extreme and unprecedented levels, the economic, financial, and commercial blockade against Cuba. Likewise, it condemns the decision by the U.S. Department of the Treasury on May 7, 2026, which added the Cuban entities Gaesa and MoaNickel S.A. to the Specially Designated Nationals List, this being the first coercive measure resulting from the order signed on May 1. This constitutes an act of ruthless economic aggression that multiplies the extraterritorial effects of the blockade, with the potential application of secondary sanctions against foreign companies, banks, and entities, even if their business operations in the United States have no connection to Cuba. The measure will further hinder the functioning of the national economy, which has already been facing, since January 29, 2026, the disastrous effects of the oil blockade imposed on that date, which paralyzed fuel exports to the country. Acting as a global policeman and in flagrant violation of international law and the basic rules of free trade in goods and services, it explicitly and brazenly attacks Acting as the world’s policeman and in flagrant violation of international law and the basic rules of free trade in goods and services, the sovereign right of all States that have or wish to maintain economic, commercial, and financial relations with Cuba is being explicitly, blatantly, and directly attacked. The highest U.S. authorities, particularly the Secretary of State, are attempting to force the international community, through blackmail and intimidation, to submit to and comply with the blockade. No country is exempt from this threat to extend the genocide against the Cuban people, in an attempt to force Cuba’s isolation from the international economic and financial arena. We warn that this aggression against the Cuban economy and people would only achieve its intended destructive effect if sovereign and independent nations allow themselves to be intimidated by the U.S. government. We know that the world will never meekly accept illegal norms, will not renounce sovereign equality, nor will it leave its citizens, businesspeople, corporations, and financial institutions unprotected. The international community has historically opposed and condemned the genocide being committed against the people of Cuba by the United States government, which has lasted nearly seven decades. We denounce the criminal nature of these aggressive measures aimed at forcing the entire Cuban population to surrender through hunger and desperation and at attempting to create a social, economic, and political catastrophe on a national scale. We also reject the U.S. government’s intention to create a humanitarian crisis in order to justify more dangerous actions, including military aggression against Cuba. In all international forums, Cuba will continue to denounce the blockade. Likewise, we urge the international community to confront this onslaught, which constitutes a dangerous escalation in the U.S. quest to exercise domination and control Cuba’s destiny, thereby violating the independence and sovereignty of all states.
- Government of Dominica to Rename Castle Bruce Health Centre in Honour of Nurse Hyacinth Thomas
The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, through the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, has officially taken the decision to rename the Castle Bruce Health Centre as the Nurse Hyacinth Thomas Health and Wellness Centre, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to healthcare in the district. This decision reflects the Government’s continued commitment to honouring individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to national development, particularly within the health sector. Nurse Hyacinth Thomas is widely regarded as one of the most influential medical professionals to have served the Castle Bruce district, dedicating years of service to the care and well-being of its residents. The renaming also comes as the facility undergoes important upgrades, with works currently ongoing to retrofit the centre to be climate resilient, ensuring that it remains functional and accessible even in the face of extreme weather events. Upon completion, the enhanced facility will continue to provide essential primary healthcare services, health education, and wellness support to the people of Castle Bruce and surrounding communities. Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Andy St Hiliare, underscored the significance of the decision. “This renaming is a fitting tribute to a healthcare professional whose life‟s work has touched countless individuals and families. Nurse Hyacinth Thomas represents the very essence of community healthcare: selflessness, dedication, and compassion.” Dr. St Hilaire added, “As we invest in modern, climate-resilient health infrastructure, it is equally important that we honour those who laid the groundwork for quality care in our communities. This gesture ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire both current and future generations of healthcare providers.” In reflecting on the honour, Nurse Hyacinth Thomas expressed both humility and pride. “Really I am very humbled but very excited too because I wasn‟t expecting it. I know I worked hard, I did a lot for my community...but I didn‟t do it for name. I really did it because of the love of God.” She also highlighted her enduring connection with the community. “I believe when the news breaks out, they will be very happy... Because they do not forget me. When they meet me, nice greetings...So it‟s really how you deal with people; it will have a lasting impact on you and on them.” Commenting on the upgraded facility, Nurse Thomas noted, “You know, when I see the work that is being done there, I say to myself „Wow, that is a mini hospital.‟ It‟s true. It was a main health centre but now it is expanding to have other offices and other areas for our nurses and so it is really a great honour for us here in Castle Bruce. Not only for me who it is named after, but when our people come there, they know they are coming to a modern health centre. I am sure some of them will also say a mini hospital.” An official renaming ceremony will be announced, bringing together residents, healthcare workers, and government officials to celebrate the life and legacy of Nurse Hyacinth Thomas.












