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The private sector in Dominica plays a vital role in the nation’s socio-economic development. However, in recent years, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have faced significant setbacks due to natural disasters such as Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hindered recovery efforts. Businesses with robust Business Continuity Plans (BCPs) have demonstrated greater resilience in navigating these challenges. To bolster the resilience of MSMEs in Dominica, IsraAID Dominica partnered with MAANZ Ltd. to deliver an online Business Continuity Planning (BCP) training program for 60 MSMEs between October and December 2024. The initiative aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to strengthen their psychological, social, financial, environmental, technological, and legal readiness for future disasters. Spanning two months, the training addressed a comprehensive range of topics, including risk reduction strategies, motivation, customer service, record-keeping, financial management, communication, marketing, disaster planning, and strategic planning. A key outcome of the program was the development of personalized Business Continuity Plans tailored to each participant’s business operations. The online format of the program provided significant advantages, such as scalability, ease of replication, and broader geographic accessibility. Participants appreciated the engaging evening sessions, which emphasized practical, real-world applications. The program also benefited from the expertise of facilitators and the involvement of NGOs like the Dominica Red Cross and the Customs & Excise Department. High demand was observed for further training in budgeting, QuickBooks, and financial management, alongside growing interest from government agencies in participating in similar initiatives. IsraAID Dominica is proud of this collaboration and remains committed to supporting the resilience of Dominica’s private sector. Strengthening the private sector’s resilience is integral to the country’s socio-economic stability and development. In 2025, IsraAID Dominica plans to expand this program to include hazard mapping and the establishment of disaster preparedness committees to better support small businesses in times of disaster.

The first round of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition in Dominica has concluded with five schools securing their place in the next stage. These teams will now prepare to challenge reigning champions Orion Academy in what promises to be an electrifying second round. The week’s debates opened with a riveting discussion on the topic: “Skills-based learning has become more relevant than formal academic training in meeting the economic needs of Dominica.” The Isaiah Thomas Secondary School (ITSS) argued in favour of the motion, while the Portsmouth Secondary School (PSS) opposed it. In the end, PSS, represented by Maliah Ettienne and Roxanne Andre, emerged victorious, with Ettienne earning the title of Best Speaker. The same motion was debated by the St. Martin Secondary School (SMSS) and Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS). Representing SMSS, Rihanna Alexander and Kurdez Simon secured a win with 558 points over CBSS’s 547. Despite her team’s loss, Kiana St. Jean of CBSS was recognised as the Best Speaker of this debate. On January 29, another round of compelling debates unfolded, tackling the topic: “Adolescents who have reached the age of consent should not require parental consent to acquire reproductive and sexual health services in Dominica.” Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA) argued in favour, while Dominica Grammar School (DGS) opposed. In a closely contested match, DGS, represented by Rene Talbert and Abigail Winston, triumphed with 663 points over SMA’s 625. Talbert was also named Best Speaker. Simultaneously, Pierre Charles Secondary School (PCSS) and Goodwill Secondary School (GSS) debated the same motion. The duo from PCSS, Myra Dover and Chénika Alexander, secured victory, ensuring their progression to the next round. Dover copped the award for Best Speaker of this match. The final debate of the week, held on January 30, explored the topic: “The recent body positivity movement is dangerous because it has led to the desensitization of adolescents to the health risks associated with obesity.” Convent High School (CHS) supported the motion, while Wesley High School (WHS) countered it. WHS, represented by Niola Alleyne and Adoré Defoe, claimed victory with 637 points against CHS’s 595. Defoe also earned the Best Speaker award. With these five schools advancing, the competition will continue with the quarterfinals on February 19 and 20, followed by the semifinals in March and the grand finals in April. After a long hiatus, this debate series was revived three years ago and has since played a pivotal role in enhancing critical thinking, research abilities, and public speaking skills among Dominican students. Ms. Trudy Christian, lead organiser of the competition and Interim President of the Dominica State College (DSC), expressed satisfaction with the event’s progress, emphasising that the opening week showcased the students' talent and dedication. She noted that the upcoming rounds promise to be even more intense and engaging. With strong support from DSC’s Literary and Debating Society and key partners, including this year's headline sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., the annual competition has become a premier platform for showcasing the intellectual and rhetorical abilities of Dominica’s brightest young debaters. Ms. Christian extended her gratitude to the schools, debaters, sponsors, judges, and all contributors who have played a role in making the event a success. Round 1 winners

In a thrilling finale, D-Treads Tyres on Sunday February 2, 2025, at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex, etched their name in history by claiming the championship title of the first-ever Next Level Sports Corporate Futsal Tournament . The electrifying showdown against Petro Caribe kept fans on the edge of their seats as both teams battled fiercely, culminating in a dramatic 7-7 draw at the end of regulation time. However, D-Treads Tyres emerged victorious, netting a crucial goal in extra time to secure a hard-fought 8-7 win and lift the coveted championship trophy. The final match was a true showcase of skill, determination, and teamwork, as both squads displayed remarkable prowess on the court. D-Treads Tyres demonstrated resilience and strategic brilliance, overcoming the relentless challenge posed by Petro Caribe to claim corporate futsal supremacy.     Goal Scorers: D-Treads Tyres: Audel Laville (5 goals), Rio Challenger (2 goals), Kimon Jno-Baptist (1 goal). Petro Caribe: Derrin Wade (2 goals), Kyle Delsol (2 goals), Erskim Williams (1 goal), , Shannon Stoute (1 goal), Donan Jervier (1 goal). In the highly competitive third-place match, Mitsubishi Motors delivered a dominant performance, defeating Boyee Barber Shop with an emphatic 8-2 victory. Their well-coordinated attack and defensive solidity ensured they finished the tournament on a high note, securing a podium finish. Third-Place Match Goal Scorers: Mitsubishi Motors: Irsand Augustine (4 goals), Zion Emmanuel (2 goals), William Moise (2 goals). Boyee Barber Shop: Eshmael Francis (1 goal), Lee Masion (1 goal). The Next Level Sports Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 marked a new era for corporate sports competitions in Dominica, bringing together teams from various industries to compete in an environment of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit. The tournament not only highlighted the athletic talents of corporate professionals but also fostered networking and team-building opportunities among companies.   Founder of DA Next Level Sports Management and Recruiting Group Statement: “ We are thrilled with the energy and enthusiasm that all the teams brought to this inaugural event. The passion and competitiveness displayed on the court reflect the commitment and sportsmanship of the participating companies. Congratulations to D-Treads Tyres for their incredible performance and to all the teams for making this tournament a resounding success . We will conclude this exciting journey with a Prize Giving Ceremony and All-Star Night on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 7 PM at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . This grand finale will celebrate the outstanding players, teams, and moments that made this tournament truly special. All are invited to join us for an evening of celebration, recognition, and entertainment! ” As corporate futsal continues to grow, Next Level Sports is committed to expanding the tournament in the coming years, creating more opportunities for businesses to engage in sports and strengthen corporate relationships. Dtreads

Pope Francis has proclaimed 2025 a Jubilee year – a sacred time of renewal reflection and Grace in the Catholic church,    A Jubilee is celebrated every Twenty-five years.   The theme for Jubilee 2025 is “Pilgrims of Hope,” and it will be a year of hope for a world suffering the impacts of war, the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the climate crisis. The Jubilee of 2025 began  on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door and will last until January 6, 2026. In the Diocese of Roseau, The Jubilee year 2025 was officially opened on December 29th 2024, at Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral Chapel by His Lordship Bishop Kendrick Forbes.   The Jubilee year also coincides with the 175 Anniversary of the Diocese of Roseau and will therefore run from January 2025 to April 2026. For pilgrims from all over the world, it will be a unique opportunity to embark on a spiritual journey. For the duration of the Jubilee, there are special activities planned in this diocese. Among such activities is the opening of four pilgrimage or sacred sites, where the faithful can pilgrimage to for prayer, praise, adoration, reconciliation and to receive special graces and a plenary indulgence. The Jubilee is a special year of grace when the Catholic Church offers the faithful the chance to receive the plenary indulgence , meaning the forgiveness of sins for themselves or deceased relatives.   You may  visit these sites in our diocese as individuals , family , prayer groups, church societies , work or friendship groups .   The first sacred site – the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette Church in St. Luke’s Parish in Pointe Michel will be officially opened on Saturday February 1st 2025 with Mass at 10am. All the faithful are invited to attend this special moment of grace.   The other three sacred sites will open as follows:   • St. Peter, Colihaut – Thursday 6th February at 6.30pm   • St. Francis Xavier, La Plaine – Wednesday 12 th February at 6.00pm   • Our Lady of the Kalinago, Salybia – Friday 21 st February at 5.30pm   As we celebrate Jubilee 25/26 we invite the participation of all the faithful and encourage you to give of your time , talent and treasure to the success of the various events planned for the period.

The Da Next Level Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 is set for an electrifying conclusion as PetroCaribe and D-Treads Tyres Inc. emerge victorious in the semi-finals, securing their place in the grand finale. In two intense semi-final matchups, PetroCaribe dominated Mitsubishi Motors with a 7-4 victory, fueled by an exceptional four-goal performance from Kyle Delsol and three goals from Shannon Stoute. Meanwhile, D-Treads Tyres Inc. edged out the fierce competition from The Boyee Barber Shop in a close 5-4 encounter, with Kimon Jno Baptiste leading the charge with a hat trick. The highly anticipated Finals will take place on Sunday, February 2, at 8:00 PM at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . Before the grand finale, fans will witness the Third-Place Game at 7pm , where Mitsubishi Motors and The Boyee Barber Shop will battle for podium honors. This tournament has showcased incredible corporate talent, team spirit, and high-level futsal action, and the final match promises to deliver an unforgettable night of competition and entertainment. Fans are encouraged to attend and support their teams as the champions of the Da Next Level Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 are crowned!

The Caribbean Science Foundation (CSF) held the third annual Caribbean STEM Olympiads (CSO) on 13 – 19 January 2025 in a virtual format. In these Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Olympiads, individuals and teams representing educational institutions or themselves competed in Math, Computer Coding, and Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiads at three different age levels (12 – 15, 16 – 18 and 19 – 21). In the competitions, the focus was on rewarding inventiveness, as well as critical, logical and analytical thinking. In particular, the Math Olympiad was held in a Jeopardy-style format and covered the fundamentals in topics ranging from consumer arithmetic to vector calculus. The Computer Coding Olympiad tasked applicants with creating apps, games, and websites aimed at solving a challenge faced by Caribbean communities. The challenges tackled by teams in the 2025 Olympiads included geohazards and climate change, cultural preservation, conservation science and ecology, inter and intra country transportation, food safety and security, safe after-hours transport for women and youth, and financial education. The Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiad tasked the Level I applicants with building innovative systems from kits, whereas the Level III robotics and electronics systems teams were required to design and assemble their robots starting from the basic-components level. A total of 264 students from 9 Caribbean countries registered for the 2025 Olympiads, making it the highest registration to date. After the preliminary rounds, 41 teams (98 students) made it to the finals. There were 34 finalists in the MathOlympiad, 39 in the Computer Coding Olympiad, and 25 in the Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiad. Medal certificates and cash prizes of US$ 500, 400, 300 and 200 were awarded to teams winning platinum, gold, silver, and bronze medals, respectively. The Medals and Awards Ceremony, held on Sunday 19 January 2025, revealed that Jamaica led the medal count with 10 medals, followed by Belize and Guyana with 4 each, and Barbados, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago with 2 each. In 2025 platinum medals were awarded to teams who received a final score between 95% and 100%, as the CSF continued to raise the standard of the Olympiads. “Pi Enthusiasts”, a team consisting of Chad Wright and Jaheim Smart who attend Campion College in Jamaica, but represented themselves, gave an outstanding performance and clinched the Level 1 Math Olympiad platinum medal (the only platinum medal awarded in 2025). Regarding some of the other prestigious medals earned, “PCC Pi-rates”, a team consisting of Kovid Capildeo, Avinda Dhoray, and Saiesh Rampersad from Presentation College, Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, earned a gold medal in Level II of the Math Olympiad. Anaiah Bousquet, Shanice Searles, and Payten Xavier representing St. Joseph's Convent Secondary School in Saint Lucia earned a gold medal in Level I of the Math Olympiad. In Level III of the Math Olympiad, Nishanae Williams, a Jamaican student currently attending Howard University, won a gold medal. Also, earning a gold medal from Jamaica was Kristian Coke, Ruwan Amarakoon, Demaria Walker and Joseph Udoudo who impressed the Level III Computer Coding Olympiad judges with their food safety and security project “Nothing Nuh Grow Suh”. Belize clinched two gold medals in Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiad. In Level I, Mia Yam, Carlos Blanco, Jair Urbina and Kian Carrillo from Muffles College High School presented their robotics project “Making Intelligent Life Possible through Agriculture (MILPA)” designed to assist farmers with planting, watering and ploughing, while in Level III, Bridget Pineda from Nazarene High School awed the judges with her electronics project “Cricket”, designed to detect flames, smoke, sparks and gas leaks. Also earning a gold medal was 13-year-old Temidara Oyedotun, who attends School of the Nations, Guyana. His data processing project, “State of the Soil: State of the Crop”, examined the effects of factors, such as bacteria, on food safety and security, and earned him the top prize in Level I of the Computer Coding Olympiad. For Level II of the Computer Coding Olympiad, Khamala Mars and Nya Scott of team “KarifKoders” from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, tackled the challenge of cultural preservation with their project “GariGuru” which was an interactive game designed to teach primary school children in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines the basics of the Garifuna language. Professor Cardinal Warde, the Interim Executive Director of the CSF said, “I am impressed by the level of achievement of the participants. However, it is clear that the CSF needs to do more to enhance the quantity and quality of robotics and embedded systems in the Region. To aid those Robotics & Electronics Systems teams that start early in preparation for the 2026 Olympiads, the CSF will issue a call for proposals to assist such teams in covering the upfront costs of components.” The competing students also had a lot to say. Chad Wright of platinum medalist team “Pi Enthusiasts” from Jamaica stated, “I would like to thank the CSF, sponsors and anyone else who contributed for this amazing opportunity. It really helped us to challenge ourselves and meet other people from the Caribbean. It was very fun, and we will be coming back next year.” Kovid Capildeo of gold-medallist team “PCC Pi-rates” from Trinidad and Tobago said, “It’s the first Math Olympiad that I participated in where it has such a unique format with the quick-fire thinking and such a broad range of topics from algebra, sequences, geometry, trigonometry, vectors; practically everything that you would learn in pure math was covered here and a lot of applied math too, so it is a really nice thing because if you study for the CSO, it almost has a side effect that you are going to be well prepared for CAPE. So, I think it is a really nice format and structure. It was very dynamic and very fun.” Temidara Oyedotun, a 13-year-old student from Guyana, who won a gold medal in Level I of the Computer Coding Olympiad and a bronze medal in Level I of the Math Olympiad stated, “The Olympiads were very suspenseful and exciting, and I enjoyed every moment of the competitions. Also, I thank you for recognizing all the months of hard work I put into preparing for the two challenges I took part in.” Gold medalist Nya Scott of “KarifKoders” from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines said, “We both wanted to thank the CSF and sponsors for organizing these Olympiads and creating this opportunity for young people in the Caribbean to explore STEM. Participating has improved our coding skills and critical thinking skills, but it has also allowed us to tackle real world issues affecting our country and Region.” Simeon Green of “Phi-re Phi-ghters” from Barbados who won a silver medal in Level III of the Math Olympiad said, “We really enjoyed preparing by doing a lot of practice, and even during the competition, just the rigor of the math we had to do was really interesting. You should have seen our faces when got the question done. We really enjoyed participating.” Silver medalist Caesar Melendez of “” from Belize High School who competed in Level II of the Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiad stated, “Thanks to the judges who gave very constructive feedback on how we could improve our project. It made us realise all of our flaws since this is the first time that we’ve done the CSO, and it inspired us to try to see if we can come back next year. Thank you very much for this honour and we are thrilled to have earned a silver medal in this competitive filed.” Faith Robinson from Saint Lucia, who earned a bronze medal in Level III of the Robotics & Electronics Systems Olympiad and was a finalist in Level III of the Computer Coding Olympiad said, “It was genuinely a really fun experience. It was fun to develop. It fun to hear the judges feedback, and it was especially inspiring to see the work of the other Olympiad participants.” The Institutional sponsors included CIBC Caribbean, Emera Caribbean, Peloton International, Sandals Foundation, and the U.S. Embassy in Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean and the OECS. The CSF is a regional, non-profit NGO with the mission of assisting with the development and diversification of the economies of the Caribbean Region by promoting STEM education reform and stimulating technology-based entrepreneurship. For more information on the CSF, the Caribbean STEM Olympiads and other programs run by the CSF, please visit https://caribbeanscience.org.

In a gesture of brotherhood and an example of cooperation, members of the Cuban Medical Brigade joined their colleagues from Dominica in a successful Health Fair organized by the Ministry of Health in the community of Mahaut. The event was attended by the country's Minister of Health, the Honorable Cassanni Laville and the Cuban Ambassador, Miguel Fraga, who highlighted the positive impact of this collaboration on the health care of the population. Also present were Dr. Lynora Fevrier Drigo, Chief Medical Officer of Dominica, and Dr. Francisco Sanchez, Chief of the Cuban Medical Brigade.  During the day, Cuban and Dominican specialists provided free medical consultations to more than a hundred people, covering a wide range of services, from general check-ups to preventive health promotion.  Minister Laville expressed his appreciation to all the health professionals who participated and had words of gratitude to the Cuban collaborators for their continuous support to the health system of Dominica and reiterated that their presence reinforces the commitment to guarantee the wellbeing of all the inhabitants of the so-called “Island of Nature”. For his part, the Cuban diplomat highlighted the historic ties of cooperation between Cuba and Dominica. “Events like this are a reflection of the brotherhood between our peoples. We are also grateful because each Cuban collaborator who lives the experience of serving where he or she is most needed not only becomes a better professional but also a better human being,” he said. The Cuban specialists dedicated their efforts to the 66th anniversary of the triumph of the Cuban Revolution and the 172nd anniversary of the birth of Cuba's National Hero, José Martí. The Health Fair in Mahaut reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in the health field, demonstrating that joint efforts can transform lives and strengthen communities. Both organizers and participants consider it a positive experience that should be extended to other communities. EMBACUBADOMINICA

Dominica is set to experience an electrifying evening of fast-paced action and corporate pride as the Next Level Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 reaches its highly anticipated semi-final stage! The tournament, which has brought together the island's top corporate teams in a thrilling display of sportsmanship and community, will culminate in two must-see matches on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 , at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . Match Lineup: 7:00 PM: Mitsubishi Motors vs. PetroCaribe Dominica Ltd 8:00 PM: Boyee Barber Shop vs. D-Treads Tyres, Inc. Fans can expect unparalleled energy, incredible skills, and fierce competition as these corporate teams battle it out for a coveted spot in the grand finale. Experience the Semi-Finals Live! Venue: Massacre Indoor Sports Complex Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM Live Stream: Watch live on DA Sports Vybez Facebook (@DASportsVYBEZ). This event promises more than just high-stakes futsal. Spectators will enjoy dynamic fan engagement, music, and live entertainment, making it a night for the whole family.

The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the debates are about to ignite as the first round of the 2025 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition begins on January 28.   Organised by Miss Trudy Christian, with support from the Dominica State College (DSC) Literary and Debating Society and other partners, this annual competition has become a hallmark event, showcasing the intellectual prowess and oratory skills of Dominica’s brightest young minds.     The week will open with a fiery debate centered on the topic: “Skills-based learning has become more relevant than formal academic training in meeting the economic needs of Dominica.” The Isaiah Thomas Secondary School (ITSS) will propose the motion, while the Portsmouth Secondary School (PSS) opposes. The St. Martin Secondary School (SMSS), the proposing side, will face off against the Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS), delving into the same issue.   The intensity continues on January 29, with debates tackling a deeply relevant and socially charged issue, “Adolescents who have reached the age of consent should not require parental consent to acquire reproductive and sexual health services in Dominica.”   The Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA) will debate in favour, while the Dominica Grammar School (DGS) takes the opposing stance. In a parallel match-up, the Pierre Charles Secondary School (PCSS) will propose, facing off against the Goodwill Secondary School (GSS), which will oppose.     The week’s debates will conclude on January 30 with the topic, “The recent body positivity movement is dangerous because it has led to the desensitization of adolescents to the health risks associated with obesity.” The Convent High School (CHS) will argue in favour of the motion, while the Wesley High School (WHS) presents the opposing view.     All debates will take place at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, beginning at 2:30 p.m.     The reigning champions, Orion Academy, will join the fray in February during the second round, with the semi-finals scheduled for March and the grand finals in April.   The competition, revitalised three years ago after a lengthy hiatus, according Ms Christian,  who is also the Interim President of the DSC, this has been instrumental in fostering critical thinking, research skills, and public speaking among Dominican students. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the participating schools for their enthusiasm and to the sponsors for their steadfast support, while encouraging the public to show up and support the youth.

The intensity of the Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 has reached fever pitch, with fans treated to two unforgettable quarterfinal clashes last night. Mitsubishi Motors and Petro Caribe emerged victorious, punching their tickets to the semi-finals. The action continues tonight as four more teams battle for the final two spots. Quarterfinal Results (January 23, 2025) Mitsubishi Motors 5 – 4 Oyo’s Wholesales In a nail-biting opener, Mitsubishi Motors (Group A, 1st Place) edged past Oyo’s Wholesales (Group D, 2nd Place). The standout performance came from Yannick George , who delivered a spectacular hat-trick. Goals from Zion Emmanuel and Brian Giraudel sealed the deal. Oyo’s Wholesales fought valiantly, with Odel Francis scoring twice and contributions from Jeffery Charles and McChris Morancie , but it wasn’t enough to overcome Mitsubishi’s relentless attack. Petro Caribe 13 – 5 Springfield Trading In the second quarterfinal, Petro Caribe (Group B, 1st Place) displayed unrelenting firepower, cruising past Springfield Trading (Group C, 2nd Place). The dynamic duo of Shannon Stoute and Jason Joseph each netted hat-tricks, while goals from Eiskim Williams , Doran Jervier , Shakim Baptist , Kyle Delsol , and Nyan Delsol added to their commanding win. Springfield Trading showed resilience with goals from Jaric Parker , Harris Charles , Rahyim Laronde , and Akeva Leblanc , but Petro Caribe proved unstoppable. Quarterfinal Showdowns Tonight (January 24, 2025) The action heats up at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex , where the remaining quarterfinals promise high-stakes drama: Boyee Barber Shop (Group D, 1st Place) vs. Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (Group A, 2nd Place) – 7:00 PM D-Treads Tyres Inc. (Group C, 1st Place) vs. Miles and Smiles Ballers (Group B, 2nd Place) – 8:00 PM Semi-Final Matchups Await The semi-finals are set for Sunday, January 26, 2025 , at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . In the first matchup, Mitsubishi Motors will take on Petro Caribe at 7:00 PM . The winners of tonight’s games will clash in the second semi-final at 8:00 PM . Be Part of the Action Don’t miss a second of the excitement! Tickets are just $5 , and fans attending tonight’s games have a chance to win fantastic prizes from Perky’s Pizza during halftime . For those unable to make it in person, the matches will be streamed live on DA Sports Vybes , ensuring fans everywhere can cheer on their favorite teams. This tournament is brought to you by Joma, Creole Heartbeat, Perky’s Pizza, and DA Sports Vybes —proud sponsors of the Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 .

In 2025, the Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) will conduct site visits to assess various electricity generation projects, as part of its mandate to ensure a reliable and adequate electricity supply. The goal of these projects is to build generation capacity to meet the increasing demand for energy nationally, while also reducing the Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.  The generation projects are: 1. 4.8-Megawatt (MW) Thermal Leased Generator:  A project that will boost generation capacity at DOMLEC’s Fond Cole Plant in the near term. According to DOMLEC, this will be commissioned by the end of February 2025. 2. 6-Megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Fond Cole near the existing thermal station: This projectis designed to help DOMLEC better integrate the 10MW Roseau Valley geothermal generation plant into the national grid. It can also assist with any loss of diesel or hydro generation units for maintaining system stability and reliability. The battery system also has black-start capability among other functions for use at the existing Fond Cole thermal power plant. 3. 10-Megawatt Geothermal Power Plant Project at Laudat:  This project is designed to bolster Dominica’s energy security, reduce electricity production costs, and significantly lower Dominica’s carbon footprint. Estimates suggest that the island’s geothermal potential could provide electrical power capacity up to 50-times the current peak demand of approximately 18 MW.  The Government of Dominica’s target, in accordance with United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, is for Dominica to become 'carbon neutral' by 2030, through 100% domestic renewable energy production. On Thursday, January 16th, 2025, a contingent of IRC personnel carried out its first planned site visit to DOMLEC’s Fond Cole Plant to observe progress on the installation of the lease 4.8-MW generator. DOMLEC’s General Manager, Dwayne Cenac and Generation Manager, Dave Stamp hosted and directed the tour for the IRC’s mission. Executive Director of the IRC, Justinn Kase expressed satisfaction with the project’s status, so far, and promised that the IRC will make recommendations to address concerns from its observations.  He added: “ We regulate the sector, [and] we must ensure DOMLEC has enough capacity; adheres to international safety standards [and] are ready to accommodate the new technology …  as well as ensure the proper operations and maintenance of the traditional generator sets, which run on fossil fuel. We want DOMLEC to ensure that their operation and maintenance is on track and therefore to avoid any extended forced outages as we have seen in the past.”

Triple Kay International, the trailblazing bouyon band that revolutionized Dominica's music scene, proudly marks 25 years of electrifying beats, cultural pride, and unforgettable performances. This milestone celebrates not only the band's journey but also their pivotal role in shaping the island’s rich bouyon music legacy. From humble beginnings in Laudat to dominating stages across the Caribbean and beyond, Triple Kay International has become a household name synonymous with innovation, unity, and the unbreakable rhythm of bouyon. The story of Triple Kay began in the late 1990s when a group of young dreamers tapped rhythms on school desks and sang melodies in church choirs, inspired by Dominica’s vibrant cultural heritage. Driven by a shared vision, they came together with a mission to create music that could move hearts, feet, and an entire nation. Their commitment, passion, and resilience transformed that vision into anthems that now define Dominica’s bouyon genre. Premiere Alert: "The Rhythms of Triple Kay– 25 Years of Bouyon Beats" To commemorate this momentous occasion, Cranberry TV invites fans, music lovers, and cultural enthusiasts to tune in to the premiere episode of The Rhythms of Triple Kay – 25 Years of Bouyon Beats. This documentary dives into the inspiring journey of Triple Kay International, from their humble beginnings to becoming a dominant force in Caribbean music. When: Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. Where: Cranberry TV’s YouTube Channel (link below) Join us as we explore the heart and soul of Triple Kay International—how their unique sound, innovative energy, and vibrant stage presence have carried Dominica's bouyon music across borders and generations. A Legacy of Vibrance and Unity Triple Kay International’s commitment to their roots and audience remains unwavering. Known for albums like “ Allo ," "Pressure," and "Colors," they have consistently elevated the bouyon sound, blending traditional rhythms with modern energy. Over the years, the band has amassed a loyal fan base, earning them accolades and performances on international stages, from major Caribbean carnivals to global music festivals. Looking Ahead As Triple Kay celebrates this incredible milestone, they remain committed to pushing the boundaries of bouyon music. The band promises even greater innovation, new hits, and more electrifying performances, continuing to serve as cultural ambassadors for Dominica. This 25-year celebration is more than an anniversary—it’s a testament to what passion, determination, and the love of music can achieve. Join the Celebration! https://www.youtube.com/@CranberryTV https://www.youtube.com/@TripleKayBand