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–The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will stage the inaugural Resilient Housing Fair on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. at the Promenade in Roseau. Held under the theme “Resilient Homes-Resilient Nation,” the event seeks to equip homeowners with the knowledge and tools needed to construct safer, more resilient homes. The Fair will feature stakeholders from the building and construction sectors, as well as representatives from financial institutions, showcasing their products, services and solutions for the development of resilient housing in Dominica. A major highlight of the event will be the launch of the Homeowners Manual, a user-friendly, practical guide designed to support homeowners and builders in retrofitting homes to better withstand environmental threats. The Ministry will also share findings from a national housing survey, conducted as part of the “Data and Systems for Resilient Housing Programs in Dominica” project. “As a follow-up activity to the Symposium on Disaster Resilience and Financing held in March 2024, this fair is organized to build on the insights gained on housing retrofit policies, financing models and approaches presented and provide hands-on, actionable guidance that will bridge the gap between home construction theory and practice” says Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Melissa Poponne-Skerrit. “By creating a space where building professionals, homeowners and businesses can deepen their understanding of resilient construction techniques, the Resilient Housing Fair aims to foster community engagement, increase awareness on building conditions, and provide a dynamic platform for learning, networking, and collaboration. It offers unique opportunities for exhibitors and homeowners to interact and exchange ideas on resilient housing,” the Minister added. In addition, the Ministry’s Urban Development Unit will unveil two initiatives: Paint-The-Town, focused on enhancing and beautifying building exteriors, and the Urban Garden Venture, which aims to transform vacant lots into attractive and productive green spaces within the City of Roseau. Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, Minister for Housing and Urban Development and Parliamentary Representative for Roseau Central, Hon. Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, along with other Government officials, are expected to deliver remarks at the event, which will also feature interactive exhibitions and live entertainment. The Resilient Housing Fair is supported by Build Change, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the Green Climate Fund.

World’s longest cable car to open in December, U.S. airlift expands, and landmark projects advance — The Discover Dominica Authority today announced several major developments during a press conference held during the 43rd CHTA Marketplace 2025 in Antigua, reinforcing the Nature Island’s commitment to sustainable growth and enhanced visitor access. Discover Dominica Authority’s CEO, Marva Williams, announced Dominica’s groundbreaking cable car, the longest detachable cable car in the world at 6.6 kilometers, will officially open in December 2025. The project will connect the Roseau Valley to the iconic Boiling Lake in just 20 minutes, transforming what is currently a six-hour hike into an accessible rainforest experience. It has already generated more than 450 construction jobs and will sustain more than 150 permanent positions. Additionally, Williams shared positive news regarding increased airlift to the destination. American Airlines will expand its service from Miami starting in August with six flights per week, scale back to two in September, then resume daily service in October, followed by an increase to eight weekly flights in November and December — marking a significant boost in U.S. connectivity to the island. "Dominica continues to set itself apart in the Caribbean by investing in projects that expand access while preserving what makes the Nature Island so special,” said Williams. “We are redefining what it means to be a sustainable and green destination where nature is respected, where communities lead, where innovation fuels resilience, and where every traveler is transformed by the journey.” Additional destination updates shared during the press conference include:  A 10-megawatt geothermal plant is set to become operational by the end of 2025, supplying up to 50% of the country’s peak electricity demand — dramatically lowering energy costs and carbon emissions.  The US $201 million Cabrits Marina will welcome vessels up to 150 feet and feature a marine village with dining, shopping, and cultural experiences — all developed with a strong focus on environmental stewardship.  Dominica’s international airport is now 40% complete and remains on track for completion in 2027. The 2,850-meter runway and climate-resilient terminal will support direct flights from North America and Europe, vastly expanding the island’s visitor capacity. “With our upcoming cable car, expanded airlift, and progress on renewable energy and infrastructure, we are not just building for today, we are creating a more sustainable, connected, and resilient future for generations to come,” continued Williams.

The Honourable Cassanni Laville, Dominica’s Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services, is currently in Geneva, Switzerland representing the Government at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly (WHA78), convened under the theme “One World for Health.” He is accompanied by Dr. Andy St Hilaire, Acting Director of Primary Health Care Services. The Assembly, hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO), brings together high-level representatives from member states and international partners to address urgent health challenges and shape the global health agenda. This year’s theme reflects WHO’s ongoing commitment to solidarity, equity, and cohesion—ensuring that every individual, regardless of geography or circumstance, has an equal opportunity to live a healthy life. Hon. Laville emphasized the critical timing of this year’s gathering, stating: “The next few days are pivotal for shaping the future of global health, and our presence here is essential. We look forward to participating in elections for key health committees that will guide our collective priorities moving forward.” He noted that Dominica will engage in critical discussions on:  Building a more effective and responsive WHO  Protecting one billion more people from health emergencies  Advancing the integration of health into the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda  Combatting antimicrobial resistance  Empowering one billion more people to enjoy better health and well-being A historic highlight of the Assembly so far has been the unanimous adoption of the first-ever global pandemic agreement, a landmark accord aimed at improving global equity and preparedness in response to future pandemics. Adopted by consensus on Wednesday, May 21, following three years of negotiations spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, the agreement was lauded as a milestone for global public health. “The world is safer today thanks to the leadership, collaboration, and commitment of our Member States,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This agreement is a victory for public health, science, and multilateral action.” The agreement—approved on May 19 with 124 Member States in favour, no objections and 11 abstentions—ensures equitable access to vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics during future health crises, particularly for developing countries. It also affirms that WHO will not have authority to override national legislation, enforce lockdowns, or impose vaccine mandates. A complementary resolution outlines the next steps, including the development of a Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System, to be negotiated by an Intergovernmental Working Group. The system will ensure timely sharing of pathogens and associated benefits. To support implementation, mechanisms such as a Coordinating Financial Mechanism and the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL) have also been introduced, aimed at reducing barriers to accessing essential pandemic response tools. Under the new PABS System, pharmaceutical companies will be required to provide WHO with up to 20% of their real-time production of pandemic-related vaccines and other critical supplies, based on assessed public health needs. This is only the second international legal agreement enacted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, following the 2003 Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. As WHA78 continues, discussions will cover a range of pressing issues included in WHO’s Programme of Work, such as:  Health workforce development  Antimicrobial resistance  Emergency preparedness and response  Polio eradication  Climate change and health  Social connection as a determinant of health “These are not just items on a meeting agenda; they are essential to reimagining the future of healthcare globally,” Hon. Laville stated. “I look forward to fruitful exchanges and building stronger partnerships to improve the health and well-being of the people of Dominica and our region.” The Assembly will also feature the presentation of the WHO Public Health Prizes and Awards on Friday, May 23, recognizing outstanding contributions to public health by individuals and organizations worldwide. The Assembly will conclude on May 27 and will be immediately followed by the 157th Executive Board (EB157) meeting on May 28 and 29. As WHO’s highest decision-making body, the World Health Assembly sets out the Organization’s policy and approves its budget.

The GEMS Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the GEMS Artisan Market (GAM) , a vibrant three-day cultural event set to take place from August 1–3, 2025 , at the iconic Fort Young Hotel  in the heart of Roseau. GAM is designed to spotlight Dominica’s rich artistic and cultural heritage by bringing together 32 of the island’s most talented artisans  and 30 local performers  for a weekend of art, music, food, and community connection. The event is open to the public and free to attend . “GAM is more than a market, it's a movement,” says Jael Joseph , Event Lead at the GEMS Foundation. “We’re creating a space where our local makers, creatives, and entrepreneurs can shine, sell, and be celebrated. It’s about showcasing Dominican excellence and building pride in our cultural identity.” Artisans will exhibit a variety of high-quality, locally made products including handmade crafts,herbal products, jewelry, clothing, fine art, and home goods. The event will also feature acoustic performances, spoken word, and poetry sessions, all set in an inviting atmosphere across the Fort Young Hotel property, including a dedicated stage area in the Marquis space. “The GEMS Artisan Market celebrates Dominican creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurship, adds Gregor Nassief, Chief Executive Officer of GEMS Holdings. “ It’s more than a showcase,it's a platform for artisans to grow as business owners and cultural ambassadors, while strengthening sustainable tourism and community pride." GAM aims to foster sustainable creative enterprise and economic empowerment within the arts sector and invites the support of public and private sector stakeholders to join this initiative. Artisan applications are now open , with a limited number of spaces available. Interested artisans are encouraged to apply early to be considered for selection. The event is part of the GEMS Foundation’s wider mission to support education, entrepreneurship, entertainment & arts, and the environment in Dominica. For more information and to apply, please visit https://bit.ly/4mpc3Wc   Foundation on social media @gemsfoundation. Email: foundation@gems.dm or follow GEMS Mr Gregor Nassief

The Head of the Family Life Commission of the Diocese of Roseau, Fr Herman Sharplis has called for the recognition of the family as the first school of human values, where we learn to use freedom. His call came while delivering the homily at the closing mass for Family Week 2025. Addressing pilgrims gathered at the Church of Our lady of La Salette in Pointe Michel, Fr. Sharplis made reference to one of many of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation - Amoris Laetitia ( On Love in the Family). Fr, Sharplis, who is chair of the Family Life Commission in the Diocese of Roseau, reinforced that ”it is in the family we learn to relate, listen and share , to be patient , show respect and love one another and live as one”. He was also very emphatic in promoting the family as the Domestic Church and the Liturgy of the Domestic Church Life designed by Dr Grey and Lisa Popcak. The Liturgy of the Domestic Church life calls on families to “schedule family time first; exhibit extravagant affection and affirmation; exhibit prompt, generous, cheerful and consistent attention to each other’s needs and discipleship discipline”. These Fr. Sharplis added can be reinforced through “family prayer rituals, family play rituals, family talk rituals and family work rituals”. Family Week in the Diocese of Roseau culminated on Saturday 17 th May with hundreds of pilgrims participating in a Family Pilgrimage from The Holy Spirit Chapel in Loubiere to the Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Pointe Michel. The Day’s activity ended with celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr Nigel Karam, Vicar General of the Diocese as main celebrant. The theme for Family Week 2025 was “Our Families, Our Hope”. Family week formed part of the Jubilee Year being celebrated under the theme” Pilgrims of Hope”. The event was coordinated by the Family Life Commission and the Family Life Units in the various parishes.

Award-Winning Single Rum Showcases Dominica’s Excellence in Sustainable Craftsmanship and Marine Conservation – Discover Dominica Authority congratulates Rosalie Bay Distillery for winning a Silver Medal at the 2025 London Spirits Competition. The distillery’s Single Rum earned an impressive score of 91 points, highlighting its exceptional quality and the company’s pioneering commitment to environmental conservation. Rosalie Bay Distillery is recognized as the world’s first conservation distillery, uniquely combining premium rum production with active efforts to protect Dominica’s marine biodiversity. Each bottle sold supports vital conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding sea turtles, whales, dolphins, and coral reefs around the island. The distillery employs sustainable practices including solar energy, rainwater harvesting and advanced wastewater treatment, while empowering over 80 local farmers who hand-harvest sugarcane near the distillery. Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority, stated, “Rosalie Bay Distillery’s success is a proud moment for Dominica and a shining example of how innovation and conservation can work together to create products that are not only world-class but also environmentally responsible. This award highlights the island’s commitment to protecting our natural environment while supporting local communities and sustainable economic growth.” The London Spirits Competition, held in March 2025, evaluates entries based on quality, value, and packaging. Rosalie Bay Distillery’s achievement highlights Dominica’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainable and responsible spirit production. More details about the award and the distillery’s unique conservation efforts can be found on the official London Spirits Competition website:  https://londonspiritscompetition.com/en/winner-companies/2025/rosalie-bay-distilling-6350.htm . As an additional note, Rosalie Bay Distillery also earned a Bronze Medal at the 2024 New York Wine &; Spirits Competition, further confirming the consistent quality and growing international recognition of their products.

On the 8th and 9th of May, 6 Secondary Schools competed to become the Master of the Maze in the NTRC’s 3rd annual Tech Expo student robotics competition. The schools competing were Castle Bruce Secondary School, Convent High School, Goodwill Secondary School, North Eastern Comprehensive School Orion Academy and St. Mary’s Academy. Students and their IT teachers received Arduino Microcro-controlers, other various components and parts, and support from the NTRC’s consulting facilitator Ms. Vashanti Raymond to build their robotics projects. The challenge: to build a robot that can navigate any maze it is placed in without human intervention, including no remote controls. The competition, held at the St. Alphonsus Parish Hall, was held in three rounds and spanned 2 days. Despite the challenges the students faced, Castle Bruce Secondary emerged victorious. Prize packages included cash for the students, the teacher and the school provided by NTRC, Purpose Partners, Republic Bank and the National Bank of Dominica, gift certificates from HHV Whitchurch and Multiverse Games (Open Solutions), phones, free service and branded tokens from Digicel, FLOW and the National Cooperative Credit Union. This is the first such competition, a departure from past exhibitions of smart home, farm and city tech solutions. The secondary school IT teachers were pleased that the project-based learning approach helped them and their students develop new engineering and problem-solving skills.

‘Bee Inspired by Nature to Nourish Us All’ On this World Bee Day, the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. Joins in the global community in celebrating the essential role bees play in sustaining life on Earth – and in sounding the alarm about the mounting threats these little pollinators face. All bees from honey bees, to native wild species serve as the great pollinators of our planet. Their tireless work is essential to global food security, as they enable the growth of many fruits, vegetables, and crops that nourish both people and animals. Beyond agriculture, bees are central to preserving biodiversity and maintaining the delicate balance of our natural ecosystems. Yet, despite their importance, bees face growing threats. Habitat loss, the spread of diseases, climate change, and the continued use of harmful pesticides are placing immense pressure on bee populations. These challenges call for action, greater public awareness, and unified commitment to sustainable practices. The National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. recognizes the urgency of this moment. That is why we have placed sustainable beekeeping at the heart of our mission. We are proud to have successfully completed an advanced mentorship program, and we are currently implementing three major training initiatives: Volume 2 of our Mentorship Program, our New Entrants Course, and a Basic Beekeepers Course in collaboration with the Anse Kounari Tourism Association. These programs are laying the foundation for a stronger, more knowledgeable beekeeping community across Dominica. As a Cooperative, we are also working to strengthen our membership and expand the volume of honey sold under the cooperative brand. These efforts are not only about growing our industry but also about reducing Dominica’s dependency on imported honey and bee products, while improving the livelihoods of our local producers. Just a few months ago, a small delegation proudly represented the cooperative at the National Honey Show in Saint Lucia, further strengthening our regional collaboration and visibility. We take this opportunity to thank the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, the Cooperative Division, and our dedicated members for their continued support and collaboration. Their commitment has been instrumental to the progress we are making. On this special day, we encourage all Dominicans to join us in safeguarding our pollinators. By planting bee-friendly trees, supporting local honey producers, valuing locally made products, and reducing our reliance on harmful chemicals, each of us can contribute to a healthier environment. We are eager to forge meaningful partnerships with farmers, schools, 4-H clubs and other organizations to ensure a sustainable future for beekeeping in Dominica. This year’s World Bee Day theme ‘Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all’ speaks directly to the heart of our work. Bees, by their very nature, collaborate to support life- not just their own, but ours too. They pollinate the crops that feed us, sustain biodiversity, and remind us that nature’s balance is essential to our survival. As a cooperative, we draw inspiration from the bees themselves: working collectively, building resilience, and ensuring that our people are nourished – not just with food, but with opportunity, knowledge and pride in our local products.Looking ahead, our goals as a cooperative remain clear. We will continue working with the Ministry of Agriculture to shape policies that advance apiculture, promote local production, and protect our bees for generations to come. On behalf of the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd., I extend sincere thanks to our local and regional partners, and most especially to our members, whose passion and dedication continue to drive our mission forward. Together, let us celebrate bees, the silent stewards of nature, and commit to a future where they can thrive and in turn continue to nourish us all. Happy World Bee Day Dominica.

The Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 DAA Kids’ Athletics Primary Schools Tour, scheduled to take place from Monday, 19th May to Friday, 30th May 2025. This island-wide initiative aims to further strengthen grassroots development in athletics through direct engagement with primary school students.   Kids’ Athletics is recognized globally as one of the most impactful youth development programmes in sports. As part of its ongoing commitment to nurturing athletic talent and promoting lifelong physical activity, the DAA has implemented several initiatives under its Kids’ Athletics Program. These include: • A 4-Week Kids’ Athletics Camp • Two Kids’ Athletics Festivals • Kids’ Athletics "Train the Trainers" Workshops   Building on this momentum, and in observance of Kids’ Athletics Month, the DAA will bring its exciting program to selected primary schools across the island. Each session will run from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., focusing on students from Grades 4 and 5, and will feature engaging activities in jumping, running, and throwing. The following schools will be visited by the Kids’ Athletics Team on the following days and times;   • Monday 19th May – Southern District: Grand Bay Primary School • Wednesday 21st May – Western District: Petite Savanne Primary School and Berean Christian Academy (Bath Estate Playing Field) • Friday 23rd May – Northern District: Roosevelt Douglas Primary School • Monday 26th May – Northeastern District: Will Strathmore Stevens Primary School • Wednesday 28th May – Eastern District: Penville Primary School • Friday 30th May – Eastern District: Jones BeauPierre Primary School   Each participating student will receive a Certificate of Participation, and each school will be presented with a copy of the Kids’ Athletics Handbook to support the continued integration of athletics into their Physical Education curriculum.

Cuba invites you to participate in the 20th edition of the ExpoCaribe International Fair, which will take place at the Heredia Cultural Complex in Santiago de Cuba, from June 23rd to 27th. ExpoCaribe is considered Cuba's second largest multi-sector International trade fair and is recognized by AFIDA (International Association of Fairs of the Americas). Organized by the Government of Santiago de Cuba, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment (MINCEX), and the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba, it will feature the presence of public and private companies. The Fair will showcase the portfolio of opportunities for foreign investment and Cuba's exportable goods and services; bilateral meetings, business forums, signing of letters of intent, and presentations will be held. The fair will be an opportunity to strengthen regional integration and the economic and commercial complementarity of the Great Caribbean with other regions, such as Russia, as the program includes a forum with that country. Companies and trade, investment, and cooperation promotion agencies from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America and the Caribbean are invited. More than 350 Cuban companies and from some 30 other countries participated in ExpoCaribe 2024, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, China, Bolivia, Brazil,  Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Gambia, and Uganda.  There were also 221 meetings between 124 Cuban companies and 28 foreign firms. Source: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/cuba-invites-participate-20th-expocaribe-international-trade-fair-june-23rd-27th-santiago-0

Dominica Strengthens Regional and International Tourism Ties at Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025 – Discover Dominica Authority will participate in the 43rd annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace, scheduled to take place in Antigua and Barbuda from May 18 to 22, 2025. This premier regional event, organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), brings together tourism suppliers, buyers, and industry leaders to foster business partnerships and promote Caribbean destinations. The delegation representing Dominica will be led by Marva Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Discover Dominica Authority and Director of Tourism. The team also includes Andia Ravariere, Destination Marketing Manager; Monelle Alexis, Communications and Public Relations Specialist; Cyrillia Alexis, Marketing Assistant; along with public relations representatives from Zapwater in the United States and Canada. All members are professionals from the Discover Dominica Authority. Dominica’s participation underlines the island’s commitment to expanding its tourism market and showcasing its unique offerings, including eco-tourism, adventure activities, wellness experiences, and traditions. The Caribbean Travel Marketplace provides an ideal platform for the Authority to engage with key stakeholders, explore new business opportunities, and strengthen existing partnerships. “Dominica’s participation in Caribbean Travel Marketplace is a strategic step toward strengthening our position as a premier sustainable tourism destination. We are eager to engage with regional and international partners to showcase the island’s unique natural beauty, authentic experiences, and commitment to responsible tourism that benefits both visitors and our local communities,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority and Director of Tourism. This year’s event will feature important activities such as Responsible Tourism Day, the Caribbean Travel Forum, Press Conferences and the inaugural Direct Booking Summit, Caribbean Edition, which aims to promote sustainable tourism and innovation throughout the region.

International cooperation and solidarity are essential in tackling global challenges, including efforts to ensure the effective realization of the right to health for all nations. As proclaimed by the United Nations, promoting international cooperation and solidarity is a duty of States. In this context, we express our profound appreciation, gratitude, and recognition to Cuban health professionals who have provided—and continue to provide—their services in multiple nations. Since 2019, and with even greater intensity now, a dishonest campaign has been unleashed to discredit Cuba's international medical cooperation, exert pressure on recipient governments, and deprive populations of essential healthcare services.  No one with a basic sense of honesty can doubt that this is an attack on multilateralism, a manipulation for political purposes, and a continuation of aggression and hostility against Cuba. Access to healthcare is a human right, and millions of people cannot be deprived of this inalienable right for political reasons. Attempts to delegitimize Cuban medical cooperation overlook the fact that the shortage of health professionals is a pressing issue worldwide, whose solution demands greater international cooperation and solidarity, not unfounded attacks. Cuba has devoted considerable efforts and resources to health care and today has one of the highest ratios of doctors per capita in the world, enabling it to make a significant contribution to global health. Cuban international medical cooperation has made it possible to provide high-quality health care to millions of people around the world. Over the past 60 years, more than 605,000 Cuban health collaborators have completed missions in 165 nations. Their feats are notable in the fight against Ebola in Africa, blindness in Latin America and the Caribbean, cholera in Haiti, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Numerous brigades from the Cuban International Contingent of Doctors Specialized in Disasters and Major Epidemics ‘Henry Reeve’ have carried out humanitarian work in many nations. Cuban professionals and technicians participating in these programs do so exclusively upon the express request of the concerned countries, offering their expertise and services freely and voluntarily. Many of them work in remote rural areas to save lives, even at the risk of losing their own. They provide care to all patients without distinction, refraining from getting involved in internal political affairs and strictly respecting the laws and customs of the countries where they work. Additionally, Cuba has provided free medical training to 43,000 healthcare professionals from 120 nations. In numerous countries, medical faculties have been established with Cuban professors. It is imperative to defend and recognize the valuable contributions of thousands of Cuban health professionals who, through immense personal sacrifice, continue to offer their cooperation. Neither discrediting campaigns nor the devastating effects of the intensified economic, commercial, and financial blockade have succeeded in preventing Cuba from continuing to save lives and share its limited resources with other nations in need. Cuban medical cooperation will remain a symbol of hope, dedication, humanity, and solidarity. Credit source: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/statement-ministers-health-non-aligned-countries-support-cubas-international-medical-1