High in the lush hills of Laudat, where mist drapes the mountains, one man is quietly reshaping the image of modern expertise. By day, Dr. Curlson George practices medicine. By dawn and dusk, he leads agricultural production at Mountain Fresh Farm, one of Dominica’s leading poultry operations—proving that farming is as much about knowledge, precision, and innovation as any other field. His story is not just one of balance. It’s one of vision, resilience, and a compelling invitation to a new generation. “I’m a medical doctor by profession, but a farmer by passion,” George says simply. That passion has grown into Mountain Fresh Farm, a business he started in 2015. Today, it stands as one of Dominica’s largest producers of broiler chickens, supplying the local market with fresh poultry processed on-site. But the farm is more than chickens. It’s a living ecosystem, goats grazing in open pasture, rabbits in enclosures, layers producing eggs, and small crop operations complementing the livestock. Still, poultry remains the heartbeat of the operation. A typical day starts early. By 7 a.m., feeding begins, first the layers, then the broilers, all on precise schedules to ensure optimal production. Goats are led out to pasture. Maintenance follows: cleaning, cage management, transferring birds, preparing for the next batch. Twice a week, the farm transforms into a high-output processing hub. Hundreds of birds are slaughtered, cleaned, packaged, and prepared for market, all within tight timelines. “It’s not just farming,” George explains. “It’s a full production system.” What makes George’s story remarkable is not just what he does, but how he does it. While medicine and agriculture are often seen as worlds apart, he navigates both seamlessly. And in doing so, he challenges a deeply rooted perception, that farming is a fallback, rather than a viable, profitable, and even innovative career.“If tomorrow I wasn’t a doctor anymore,” he says, “I could live a proper life from farming.”That statement alone reframes the narrative. Despite his success, George is candid about the biggest obstacle facing his farm, and the wider agricultural sector: labour. “We have the demand. We have the systems. But finding workers? That’s the real problem.” On slaughter days, his team expands from just two full-time workers to as many as fourteen. Yet even then, operations can stall. “There are times you have to postpone slaughter because you just don’t have enough hands,” he explains. “And when that happens, you can’t meet market demand.” The irony? Much of the labour sustaining the farm doesn’t come from locals. “Migrant workers, Haitians and Cubans, play a huge role,” George says. “They are consistent. They show up. They are dedicated.” He believes migrant labour isn’t just filling a gap, it’s sustaining the sector. Looking ahead, as his farm expands, he knows informal solutions won’t be enough. Structured systems to recruit and retain migrant workers will be essential. Labour shortages are only part of the issue. There’s also a shortage of skills. While much of farm work can be learned on the job, certain areas—like butchery—require trained professionals. And those skills are scarce. “We don’t have that kind of training readily available on the island,” George notes. But rather than seeing this as a dead end, he sees opportunity, especially for young people. “If you’re willing to learn, there’s space here,” he says. “Real space.” Ask George why more young Dominicans aren’t entering agriculture, and his answer is immediate: “They see it as hard labour. Just work in the sun.” But that perception, he argues, is outdated. Across the world, agriculture is evolving, driven by technology, efficiency, and innovation. Climate-controlled greenhouses, automated feeding systems, mechanized harvesting, these are not distant concepts. They are realities in modern farming. “We’re still farming like our grandparents,” he says. “Cutlass, fork, digging soil.” That has to change. “If we modernize, if we introduce technology, agriculture becomes something else entirely. Something appealing.” He paints a vivid picture: greenhouses glowing at night, automated systems humming, farms run with precision and professionalism. “You could literally go to work in a white coat,” he says with a smile. For George, modernization isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Take goat farming, for example. Demand is high. The market is ready. But scaling production requires mechanization; tractors, feed systems, proper infrastructure. “You can manage ten goats the old way,” he explains. “But not fifty. Not a hundred.” The same applies across the sector. Without investment in technology and systems, growth will remain limited. With Dominica’s international airport on the horizon, George sees greater opportunities across the agricultural value chain. More visitors will mean greater demand for food; hotels, restaurants, and services will all need reliable supply. Agriculture stands to benefit. But only if it’s ready. “The airport is coming, but our production feels like it’s declining,” he warns. “We should have been scaling up already.” He believes targeted investment in serious, committed farmers could make the difference, helping them expand production and, in turn, lifting the entire sector. At its core, George’s story is about possibility. It’s about showing that agriculture is not a step backward, but a path forward. That it can generate real income, independence, and impact. When the sun rises over the hills of Laudat, he is at work - not in a health centre, but in a chicken house, counting birds and checking feed lines with the same rigor he applies to diagnoses. He has built something lucrative. But his real work now is convincing others that farming is not a refuge for the desperate, but a frontier for the ambitious. In the hills of Laudat, he is at work - not in a health centre, but in a chicken house, counting birds and checking feed lines with the same rigour he applies to diagnoses. He has built something lucrative. But his real work now is convincing others that farming is not a refuge for the desperate, but a frontier for the ambitious.

The Ministry of Education announces the reopening of schools on Apr 30th in the areas affected by the trough system last Sunday. On that day, all schools will participate in the Return to Happiness Programme, a psychosocial support initiative designed to help students and staff transition back to the school environment after the impact of disaster. The programme will run for approximately three hours and will be supported by counsellors, education officers and other Ministry personnel. The following primary schools will host the programme at their respective sites: • Wesley Primary • Temple SDA • Wills Strathmore Stevens Primary • Sineku Primary • Salybia Primary • Castle Bruce Primary • San Sauveur Primary Students of Atkinson Primary and Lighthouse Christian Academy will participate in the programme at the Atkinson Catholic Church. Parents are encouraged to attend and support this important initiative. North East Comprehensive School (NECS) and Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS) will operate as usual from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thereafter, NECS and CBSS will continue normal school from Friday, May 1. Primary schools, with the exception of Atkinson Primary and Lighthouse Christian Academy, will resume normal classes on Tuesday, May 5th. The Ministry of Education is awaiting guidance from engineers within the Ministry of Public Works regarding the reopening of Atkinson Primary and Lighthouse Christian Academy and will provide further updates as necessary.

Roosevelt Skerrit Bombers FC is proud to announce that standout player Davonne George has officially been selected to participate in an elite European showcase tour in Poland this July—a major milestone for both the player and the club's growing international pathway. Following an extensive scouting process and detailed internal evaluations by PitchPlay's recruitment team, George earned his place among a select group of players chosen for this high-level opportunity. A Platform for International Exposure The two-week tour, scheduled from July 13 to July 26, will see George competing against professional and semi-professional teams across Poland. Matches will be attended by scouts representing clubs from across Europe, providing a valuable platform for players to showcase their talent on an international stage. In addition to competitive fixtures, George will benefit from: Structured training sessions led by UEFA-licensed coaches High-performance preparation for each match Continuous evaluation and development opportunities throughout the tour A Proud Moment for Bombers FC This selection is another testament to the development pathway being built at Roosevelt Skerrit Portsmouth Bombers FC—a club committed to nurturing talent from grassroots to the international level. George's achievement reflects: The strength of Bombers FC's player development system The club's commitment to creating real opportunities abroad The growing recognition of Dominican football talent on the global stage Special Acknowledgements Bombers FC extends sincere gratitude to Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, Hon. Fenella Wenham Sheppard, and Island Travel for their invaluable support in making Davonne George's trial opportunity possible. Their collective contributions played a critical role in opening this pathway to international exposure and advancing opportunities for young footballer in Portsmouth. Pathway to Greater Opportunities This opportunity not only represents personal growth for George but also serves as inspiration for young footballers in Portsmouth, demonstrating that with dedication, discipline, and the right platform, international doors can open. Looking Ahead As Davonne George prepares for this exciting journey, the entire Bombers FC family and wider Portsmouth community stand behind him with pride and support. From Possie to Poland—this is what opportunity looks like.

FEATURE STORY Inside a small greenhouse on a family farm in southern Grenada, lettuce grows without soil, powered by the sun. The Benjamins (Roger, 41, and Josanne, who goes by Candy, 38) stand inside this shaded structure, watching the flow of water through a network of narrow pipes. The lettuce above looks familiar—bright, green, neatly spaced—but it grows with its roots suspended in a steady stream of nutrient-rich water instead of soil. They did not set out to build something unique. They were trying to solve a problem. Rainfall arrived in bursts or went absent for weeks, and, because of climate change, each season carried more uncertainty than the last. Like many small farmers, they were working within tight margins, where a single failed crop could erase months of effort. They began by teaching themselves. Roger spent evenings watching online videos and reading about how hydroponics might work in their conditions. What they built at first was simple— a shade house, a set of pipes and a basic monitoring system, adjusting as they learned. The opportunity to enhance the system came through a readiness project implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This was one of a series of project pilots designed to deliver evidence for adaptation planning in Grenada. The couple received an improved system including a greenhouse, a robust hydroponic system, a solar pump, panel and batteries, as well as training on their use. This increased their production from about 500 heads of lettuce to roughly 1 300. The growth was significant (160 percent increase), but it also required a deeper understanding of how the more complex system functioned. Compared with conventional cultivation, hydroponics uses up to 90 percent less water. As a climate adaptation technology, it also reduces exposure to soil-borne pests and allows more efficient use of space, inputs and labour. Crops such as lettuce, kale, spinach, herbs, peppers and tomatoes—fast-growing and high-value—are well suited to this method and can be harvested more frequently. However, hydroponics depends on precision. The Benjamins use a method in which a thin layer of nutrient-rich water flows continuously through the pipes, feeding the plants as it passes. Getting that flow right proved to be one of the most difficult parts of the process. If the gradient of the pipes is too steep, the flow is too fast and the roots do not receive enough nutrients; if it is too flat, it slows down and pools, meaning roots might not get sufficient oxygen. Learning how to design that balance took time, as did adjusting to the use of fertilizers designed specifically for hydroponic systems, which are more expensive than conventional inputs but last longer. For the Benjamins, growing lettuce is only part of the equation. Finding a place in the market has been just as important. There is steady demand, but also strong competition from established growers. The farm now sells most of its lettuce to supermarkets, while also using social media channels to reach customers directly. Customers often return, Candy says, because they notice the consistency and freshness. The couple is already thinking about diversifying. They would like to grow crops such as tomatoes, cabbage and cauliflower, but that requires adapting the hydroponics, including installing larger pipes to accommodate larger root varieties. What the system offers, above all, is stability. In Grenada, climate extremes, including periods of heavy rainfall, can destroy crops through rot and fungus, while heat can dry out soils and reduce yields. Inside the covered structure, those pressures are reduced. The metal frame and ventilated design allow hot air to escape while protecting plants from excessive rain, creating a controlled environment where production can continue even under difficult conditions. Running a hydroponic system does come with constraints. Electricity is one of them, since the pumps must operate continuously to maintain the flow of water, air and nutrients. To address this, the project provided solar panels, a solar pump and batteries, which have high initial capital cost but allow to keep operating costs manageable. This solution helps reduce emissions and expand farmer incomes. Maintenance is relatively low, and monitoring the system takes about 30 minutes a day. The nature of the work has also shifted, requiring less physical strain than traditional farming, as there is no need to till soil or bend over for long periods. The changes have drawn attention from the surrounding community. Other farmers have begun experimenting with hydroponics, and the Benjamins have shared what they have learned, helping several of them build similar systems and offering visits to their farm. Looking ahead, Roger and Candy talk about a farm-to-table model, where customers can buy crops directly from their farm. They also want to continue sharing their experience more widely, drawing on what they learned through trial and error. At the Benjamin’s family farm, the greenhouse and hydroponic system now run independently of the weather, preventing nutrients from being diluted and pests from proliferating. For the Benjamins, this shift has not only changed how they grow food, but how they think about what is possible on their land. In addition to the climate-resilient pilots, FAO assisted the Government of Grenada by improving their data generation and management capacity for adaptation planning through a number of tools and instruments, namely, a knowledge management portal, a Climate Risk Atlas, a Standard Precipitation Index, a National Food Security Index and a Food and Nutrition Policy and Action Plan.

Relay-style experience to combine sports and culinary arts while supporting education, agriculture, tourism, health and sports initiatives – The Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay was officially launched on Sunday, April 12, in Delices, introducing a new relay-style experience set for August 1, 2026. The event blends running and baking while supporting initiatives in education, agriculture, tourism, health and sports. The relay will open with the White River Leg in Delices, where teams will follow a structured route anchored along the White River. Coordinated food experiences will be integrated throughout the course to enhance the overall experience. Participation is open to individuals and teams from across Dominica and the wider Caribbean. “This initiative is intended to generate opportunities, particularly in the South East, by engaging a wide cross-section of business personnel, including shopkeepers, roadside vendors, farmers, fishermen, tour guides and hoteliers, alongside runners on the route. It brings people together through activity and cuisine while supporting youth and community development,” said Founder Shirlyn James Graham. Teams of nine will compete for EC$6,000 in prizes, including awards for Fastest Runner, Most Creative Team and Most Disciplined Team. Each registered team will receive breakfast and branded T-shirts. Patrons can also purchase a Creole breakfast for EC$30, with other traditional delicacies available for sale. Raffle tickets, priced at EC$10, offer a chance to win EC$1,000 in catering services from Tasty Treasures. Registration is now open at a promotional rate of EC$700 per team until June 15, 2026, increasing to EC$900 after that date. Registration forms are available at Tan Tofi Store, located at 10 Marlborough Street in Roseau, opposite the Discover Dominica Authority. Proceeds from the initiative will support House of Hope in Delices, Chances in Jimmit and St. Martin Secondary School. The relay follows the completion of an essay competition in March and forms part of a broader effort to engage participants through both creative and physical expression. Organizers are encouraging early registration as preparations continue for the August 1 event in Delices. For registration and additional information, interested persons can contact the organizers.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has successfully concluded a high-impact Canadian market mission in Toronto reinforcing the destination’s presence within one of its key source markets through targeted trade, media and airline engagements. Led by Chief Executive Officer Stacey Liburd, alongside Director of Sales (Canada) Sekou Stroude and Marketing Executive Melinda Telesford, the mission focused on deepening strategic partnerships, expanding airlift opportunities and strengthening Grenada’s positioning within the Canadian luxury and leisure travel segments. A key outcome of the mission was strategic dialogue with WestJet, exploring the extension of Grenada’s direct seasonal service from a December–April window to a broader November–May schedule, enhancing accessibility for Canadian travellers. Engagement with WestJet Vacations also advanced opportunities to expand packaged offerings, increasing visibility and conversion across the market. “Our presence in Toronto reflects a deliberate and focused approach to strengthening Grenada’s position within the Canadian market,” said Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Through strategic airline discussions, trade engagement and media outreach, we are expanding awareness while creating clear pathways for increased visitation and sustained growth.” Grenada’s luxury positioning was further elevated through participation in Virtuoso On Tour Toronto 2026, where the delegation engaged more than 80 top-tier travel advisors. Destination visibility was amplified through a Grenada sponsored dinner which featured a brief destination presentation and remarks by CEO Liburd, curated experiences and a prize giveaway courtesy of stakeholder partners Calabash Grenada, Six Senses La Sagesse and Silversands Grenada. A targeted media engagement connected the destination with 20 leading journalists and influencers, generating immediate coverage, including a feature in Travelweek, with additional national exposure anticipated. A live television appearance by the CEO on CHCH Morning Live further extended Grenada’s reach to a broad consumer audience across Ontario. “Engagement across trade, media and airline partners continues to reinforce strong demand for Grenada within the Canadian market,” said Sekou Stroude, Director of Sales (Canada). “The relationships strengthened during this mission position us to drive both immediate bookings and long-term market growth, particularly within the luxury and experience-driven segments.” The mission also included a high-impact travel advisor dinner engagement with key agencies including Flight Centre, U Travel and Maritime Travel. There were also strategic partnership discussions with Sandals Resorts to support upcoming joint activations across Canada. The GTA’s collaboration with its in-market representation partner, VOX International, further confirmed strong campaign performance, with high engagement and conversion metrics across ongoing initiatives. The mission concluded with diplomatic engagement at the Grenada Consulate in Toronto, reinforcing alignment between tourism promotion and foreign service efforts as Grenada continues to expand its global reach.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services is calling on all citizens, particularly parents and caregivers, to take decisive action to protect the nation’s children as Dominica joins countries across the region in observing Vaccination Week of the Americas 2026. This year marks the 24th celebration of Vaccination Week of the Americas and the 15th World Immunization Week, an initiative led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to promote equitable access to life-saving vaccines. Under the theme “Your decision makes a difference: Immunization for all,” health officials are emphasizing the critical role of individual choices in safeguarding public health. Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services, Honourable Cassanni Laville, said the theme for Vaccination Week aligns closely with this year’s World Health Day theme: “Together for Health. Stand with Science.” “Both themes present a call for all of us to support evidence-based solutions, not misinformation. Because vaccination, and overall health by extension, is not just a government issue. It is not just a health sector issue. This is a national responsibility.” While Dominica can boast excellent management of the COVID-19 pandemic through strategic efforts and excellent pre-COVID coverage rates, the Ministry has noted a steady decline in the vaccination rates on the island since the pandemic. Before the pandemic, national immunization coverage was more than ninety-five percent (95%). Today, national measles coverage stands at approximately seventy-four percent (74%). “This is not just a statistic. This is a vulnerability. This is an open door to outbreaks we thought were behind us. And we cannot afford that. We are a small island, but we are deeply and recently even more easily connected to the world. As travel increases, so does the risk of diseases entering our borders. One imported case of measles can quickly become many, affecting our children, our elderly, and even our economy, particularly our vital tourism sector, as we witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Minister pointed out. Meanwhile, Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Manager (Ag), Nurse Yvonette Anatol-Carbon, underscored the importance of vaccination in protecting communities:“Your decision to get vaccinated does not only protect you and your child. It protects your family, your community, and ultimately our entire country. Conversely, choosing not to vaccinate places us all at risk of the re-emergence of dangerous, vaccine-preventable diseases. If a case of measles is imported into Dominica, unvaccinated children are especially vulnerable. Measles is highly contagious, but it is also preventable through vaccination.” The Ministry is also working to combat misinformation surrounding vaccines. Nurse Anatol- Carbon reaffirmed that all vaccines offered through the national programme are safe and effective. “There is no scientific evidence linking the MMR vaccine to autism. The original study that suggested this was proven to be fraudulent and has since been retracted,” she assured. She encouraged parents to consult healthcare professionals with any concerns and to rely on credible, science-based information. To improve access and convenience, the Ministry has implemented several initiatives during Vaccination Week and beyond:  Outreach to communities, daycares, and preschools  Home visits to families with unvaccinated children  Educational sessions to address concerns and provide accurate information  Extended clinic hours to accommodate working parents Special weekend vaccination clinics are also available:  Fond Cole Health Centre: Every second Saturday of the month (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)  Roseau Health District (Ground Floor, Government Headquarters): Every third Saturday of the month (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) All vaccines provided through the public health system are free of cost. The Ministry highlighted recent advancements in the immunization programme, including the introduction of the hexavalent vaccine in June 2025, which reduces the number of shots required for children. “We listened to the concerns of parents and have taken steps to make the vaccination process more comfortable for both children and their families,” Nurse Anatol-Carbon noted.Plans are also underway to introduce the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) in the near future. Parents and guardians are urged to review their children’s health records and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Those uncertain about their child’s immunization status are encouraged to contact their nearest health centre. As the country observes Vaccination Week of the Americas, Honourable Laville presented citizens with a clear message: “I ask you, every parent, every guardian, and every citizen: What kind of Dominica do we want to protect? One shielded by science or one exposed to preventable disease? Your decision to vaccinate, or not, does not affect you alone. It affects your child. It affects your neighbour’s child. It affects your community. It affects the entire nation. We are removing barriers. All we ask is that you make the decision that will make the difference. Let that decision be one that saves lives. Let that decision be one that protects Dominica. Let that decision be one we can all be proud of.”

The Office of the National Authorizing Officer of the European Development Fund (EDF) successfully assisted the Dominica State College in the timely enhancement of recreational space for students. The project saw the construction of a gazebo in the lower campus of the college, the installation of seven-solar powered lights and the repair of a significant portion of the perimeter fence at the back of the campus. In addition to creating a new recreational space for DSC’s students, the project significantly strengthens safety and security measures for both students and staff with the lighting of the lower campus yard and fencing restoration. For the college, the absence of lower campus lighting and a fully fenced perimeter have been long-standing issues which arose after the damaging impact of Hurricane Maria. This initiative forms part of a broader partnership between the NAO and DSC aimed at enhancing infrastructure and creating a safer, more conducive learning environment on campus. The introduction of solar lighting also reflects a commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. The Dominica State College continues to benefit from strategic collaborations that support its mission of delivering quality education within a secure and modernized campus setting.

Local tour guides in the Commonwealth of Dominica are securing their futures and gaining a competitive edge in the tourism industry through a specialised professional certification programme designed to boost their earning potential. From 13 April to 21 April 2026, practitioners affiliated with established local companies are undergoing intensive training that transforms them into expert stewards of the island's natural heritage. This initiative which focuses on enhancing the well-being and practical skills of Dominican guides is funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under the Eastern Caribbean Sustainable Terrestrial and Marine Ecosystems (EC STEMS) Project, and is a collaborative effort between the OECS Commission, Dominica State College (DSC), Dominica Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority. The programme recognises that for many Dominicans, the island’s globally significant natural assets such as its coral reefs, mangroves, and rich terrestrial biodiversity are the foundation of their livelihoods. By professionalising the tour guiding sector the OECS seeks to empower these local experts to balance economic development with ecosystem protection ensuring that their careers support conservation while generating sustainable income. Thirty (30) participants are currently immersed in a comprehensive seven day curriculum at the Dominica State College which covers essential areas including Dominica’s Marine Environment, Flora and Fauna, History and Culture, and Biodiversity and Conservation in Tourism. The training also emphasises soft skills such as Effective Communication, Customer Service, and Professional Etiquette, ensuring that every guide can deliver a world-class experience to international visitors. To ensure the skills learned translate immediately into financial benefits, the programme specifically targets guides already integrated into active industry networks. This approach guarantees that the new expertise in nature-based tourism is applied in real-time, incentivising the protection of the very ecosystems that sustain the local tourism economy. The training concludes with rigorous evaluations including written exams and a practical walking tour assessment to certify that participants meet high international standards of service and safety. Credit @OECS

The Government of Dominica has moved decisively to implement a coordinated national response following the passage of a trough system on Sunday, April 26, 2026, which brought heavy rainfall, flooding and landslides, particularly in the East and Northeast of the island. At an emergency meeting on Sunday evening Cabinet reviewed the evolving situation and approved a series of immediate interventions aimed at securing lives, restoring access and supporting affected households and productive sectors. Key Decisions of Cabinet: ➢ Activation of National Emergency Response Protocols The National Emergency Planning Organization (NEPO) is fully activated, with all relevant agencies engaged. The emergency shelter in Atkinson is operational, and additional shelters in Castle Bruce and the Kalinago Territory will be opened if necessary. ➢ Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment Teams from all relevant ministries, including the Office of the Prime Minister, Office of Disaster Management, Ministry of Public Works, Local Government Department and the Ministry of Health, will be deployed early on Monday morning (April 27) to conduct rapid assessments of infrastructure, homes and agricultural losses. Cabinet will be reconvened on Monday evening to review updates. ➢ Temporary School Closures Where Necessary In the interest of student and staff safety, the following schools will remain closed pending safety clearance. • Concord Primary • Atkinson Primary • Salybia Primary • Sineku Primary • Castle Bruce Primary • San Sauveur Primary • Temple Seventh Day Adventist • Wesley Primary • Wills Strathmore Stevens (WS Stevens) Primary • Castle Bruce Secondary • North East Comprehensive ➢ Road Clearance and Infrastructure Restoration Priority has been given to the clearance of landslides and restoration of access along the road network. The Ministry of Public Works has mobilized heavy equipment to affected areas, and work is ongoing to reopen the routes as quickly and safely as possible. The Douglas-Charles Airport remains accessible. ➢ Utility Restoration and Monitoring The Ministry of Public Works will continue to coordinate with utility providers to restore electricity and water services in affected areas. ➢ Agricultural Support Measures The Ministry of Agriculture has initiated assessments of damage to crops and livestock. This will continue on Monday, April 28, with a report to Cabinet to inform assistance measures. ➢ Health and Social Impact Assessment No casualties or major injuries have been reported to date. Medical teams remain fully mobilized and on standby, with continuous monitoring in place due to the risk of further rainfall and landslides. The San Sauveur Health Centre is designated as the primary emergency care centre for that area. Preliminary assessments in Atkinson indicate that seven households, comprising approximately fifteen individuals, have been affected. Some are currently accommodated in shelters, while others are staying with relatives or neighbours. These households have been prioritized for further assessment and targeted social support. Over the next 24 hours, multisectoral teams will be deployed to conduct detailed on-the-ground assessments to guide response measures, resource allocation and further Cabinet decisions. ➢ Public Safety Advisory The Meteorological Service continues to monitor the weather and will provide timely information to the public. Residents in affected areas are strongly urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly between Wesley and Rosalie where saturated soils may lead to landslides and falling rocks. Residents should remain indoors, avoid unnecessary travel and stay alert in flood- or landslide-prone areas. Those who feel at risk should move to a safer location and evacuate immediately if unusual sounds such as cracking or rumbling are heard. Any signs of landslide activity should be reported promptly to the relevant authorities. Motorists are advised to proceed with caution and avoid flooded or unstable areas. They should not walk or drive through floodwater and should avoid contact with floodwater. The public is also advised to stay clear of tall trees, power lines and any downed lines or unstable ground. The Government of Dominica is committed to supporting all affected individuals and communities. Every effort is being made to ensure a swift and coordinated recovery, with the safety and well-being of all citizens remaining the highest priority. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The Ministry of Education wishes to update principals, teachers, students, parents and the general public on the current status of schools following the severe trough system that impacted Dominica earlier today, April 26, 2026. Heavy rainfall and widespread flooding have caused significant disruption across several districts, particularly in the Eastern and Northeastern Districts. Assessments conducted by the Ministry and the Office of Disaster Management have confirmed that access to several schools is either compromised or entirely impassable. The Ministry of Education therefore informs that there will be no school for students of the following schools on Monday April 27, 2026: • Concord Primary • Atkinson Primary • Salybia Primary • Sineku Primary • Castle Bruce Primary • San Sauveur Primary • Temple Seventh Day Adventist • Wesley Primary • Wills Strathmore Stevens (WS Stevens) Primary • Castle Bruce Secondary • North East Comprehensive The decision was taken following an emergency meeting of Cabinet, convened in response to the weather system. Residents of these areas are urged to continue exercising caution, remain vigilant and follow all official updates. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.

The wait is over. The 2026 DFA Premier Division season officially kicks off tonight, and all eyes will be on Benjamin’s Park as Roosevelt Skerrit Bombers FC open their campaign at home against Sagicor Southeast FC in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. With kickoff set for 7:00 PM, the stage is perfectly set for a high-energy showdown in Portsmouth, where Bombers FC will look to make an early statement in front of their passionate home supporters. A New Season, A Renewed Mission Coming off a strong 2025 campaign that saw them finish among the top contenders in the league, Bombers FC enter the new season with confidence, momentum, and a clear objective—to challenge for the title. The squad has shown impressive form in preseason, including dominant victories that highlighted their attacking strength, midfield control, and overall team cohesion. With key players stepping up and new energy within the camp, expectations are high heading into tonight’s opener. Fortress Benjamin’s Park There’s no better place to begin than at home. Benjamin’s Park has long been a stronghold for Bombers FC, and tonight it transforms into the heartbeat of Possie football once again. Fans can expect: High-tempo football Electrifying atmosphere Strong community support A team ready to represent Portsmouth with pride The Matchup Southeast FC will not be taken lightly. Known for their discipline and structure, they present a solid challenge for the home side. But Bombers FC will be relying on their attacking firepower and home advantage to secure all three points. Watch Live on FIFA+ If you are unable to attend in person, fans can still catch all the action live via FIFA+. Watch here: https://www.plus.fifa.com/en/content/78d7ce8f-8651-47a0-b4da-0b1974112adb This ensures supporters both locally and across the diaspora can be part of the season opener. More Than Just a Game This opener represents more than just the start of a season—it’s the continuation of a journey. A journey built on development, resilience, and community pride. From grassroots to premier level, Bombers FC continue to embody the spirit of football in the north. Match Details Date: April 24, 2026 Time: 7:00 PM Venue: Benjamin’s Park, Portsmouth Fixture: Bombers FC vs Southeast FC The 2026 season starts now. Possie, this is our moment.