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The month of October  is being observed as Financial Information Month (FIM)  across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU)  under the theme “ Financial Investing from Savers to Investor. ” This annual initiative, spearheaded by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB)  in collaboration with financial and governmental institutions, seeks to promote greater financial awareness and empower citizens to make informed decisions about managing their personal and business finances. Now in its 23rd year, the campaign continues to emphasize the importance of financial resilience, planning, and adaptability —particularly in a global climate marked by economic shifts and uncertainties. Through educational activities, public discussions, and outreach programs, FIM encourages individuals, families, and businesses to adopt sound financial habits such as budgeting, saving, investing, and preparing for unforeseen challenges. According to the ECCB, the focus for 2025 is on helping citizens understand how proactive financial planning can lead to greater security and long-term prosperity. The initiative also highlights the role of innovation and technology in modern financial management. Across the region, financial institutions, schools, and community groups are expected to host various activities to mark the observance, all aimed at fostering a culture of financial responsibility and empowerment among Eastern Caribbean citizens.

A Bill to give effect to the Agreement establishing the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) will be presented to Parliament when the House of Assembly convenes on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. This follows Dominica’s signing of the ECCIRA agreement last month, a major step toward enhancing the integrity, transparency and long-term sustainability of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programmes across the region. Also on the Order Paper is the Bill to establish the Sperm Whale Reserve and provide for its management. This legislation builds on Government’s 2023 decision to designate a protected marine area along Dominica’s west coast, home to one of the few known resident populations of sperm whales in the world. The proposed Act will set out a comprehensive management framework for the reserve, including defined navigation protocols and monitoring mechanisms to promote responsible use and conservation of the area. In addition, Parliament will consider amendments to the Financial Services Unit Act, the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism Act, and the Money Laundering Act. During the sitting, Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit will move a motion seeking approval to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country’s highest national award, on the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas and Pierre Charles in recognition of their contributions to national development. The proceedings of the House will be broadcast live from 10:00 a.m. via the Government Information Service (GIS) and the Dominica Broadcasting Corporation (DBS Radio) with a link shared to this platform.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has donated a 40-inch Vizio Smart TV and a mobile stand to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services (MOHWSS) to enhance health education, public awareness, and outreach activities across the island. The official handover took place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, with Nicole Slack-Liburd, PAHO Country Programme Specialist, presenting the donation to Dr. Kyra Paul-L’Homme, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services. Also in attendance was Mignon Rolle-Shillingford, Coordinator of the Health Promotion Unit. According to Slack-Liburd, the donation will directly support the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and other public health initiatives of the Ministry. She noted that thecontribution reflects PAHO’s commitment to bringing health information closer to communities: “A core principle of the primary healthcare approach is meeting people where they are,” she said. “The inclusion of a mobile cart ensures that this device can be used not only at health facilities but also at various locations in communities across Dominica.” The equipment will allow for the display of educational materials, health messages, and awareness videos during community outreach, school visits, and health fairs — promoting a stronger connection between health professionals and the public. Slack-Liburd also highlighted PAHO’s continued support for Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA) 2025, which included the dissemination of electronic and printed materials and assistance for extended vaccination service hours at the Fond Cole Health Centre and nearby communities. In expressing gratitude, Dr. Paul-L’Homme thanked PAHO for its steadfast partnership and support in advancing Dominica’s health promotion efforts. She emphasized that the donation would enhance the Ministry’s ability to deliver effective, engaging, and accessible health education to all citizens. PAHO’s collaboration with the Government of Dominica continues to focus on building healthier communities through innovation, accessibility, and empowerment.

Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit will, on Tuesday, October 14, move a motion in the Parliament seeking approval to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country‟s highest national award, on the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt „Rosie‟ Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion recognizes the extraordinary national service and leadership of both former prime ministers, whose contributions advanced Dominica‟s development and who inspired citizens through their dedication to social justice, education and community upliftment. “Rosie Douglas and Pierre Charles led Dominica with vision and courage,” Prime Minister Skerrit said ahead of Tuesday‟s sitting. “This is a moment for the nation to honour two leaders who gave their all to our people. Their example continues to inspire our spirit of resilience and our collective pursuit of a stronger, more united Dominica.” The honours will be conferred posthumously during the official 47th anniversary of independence observance ceremony on November 3. Roosevelt „Rosie‟ Douglas assumed office as Prime Minister of Dominica in February 2000 and served until his untimely passing on October 1, 2000. Following his death, Pierre Charles succeeded him as Prime Minister on October 3, 2000 until his passing on January 6, 2004. The Government of Dominica invites all citizens to join in honouring their legacy of service, unity and nation-building.

On the morning of October 13, President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony of the Global Leaders’Meeting on Women at the National Convention Center in Beijing and delivered the keynote address. On this crisp autumn day, the flags of various countries and the United Nations formed a grand array. President Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan cordially shook hands and took a group photo with the heads of delegations from participating countries and international organizations as well as their spouses. Following warm applause, President Xi delivered a keynote address titled “Carrying Forward the Spirit of the Beijing World Conference on Women and Promoting the New and Accelerated Process for Women’s All-Round Development.” President Xi noted that women play an important role in creating, promoting and carrying forward human civilization. The international community has a shared responsibility to advance the cause of women. Thirty years ago, the Fourth World Conference on Women set the lofty goal of “Action for Equality, Development and Peace,” and adopted the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Gender equality has been etched in the agenda of our times, galvanizing the whole world in its unwavering pursuit of this goal. Over the past 30 years, guided by the spirit of the Beijing World Conference on Women, the cause of women has been thriving around the world, adding brilliant splendor to the progress of human civilization. Equality between men and women is now a universal consensus of the international community. Prominent progress has been achieved in women’s empowerment. Their educational attainment has been steadily improving, and women are playing an ever more important role in economic, political, cultural, and social affairs. A great many outstanding women have stepped up to take the international stage, living their lives to the full and making contributions with their wisdom and strength. President Xi noted that complex challenges still hamper women’s all-round development, and equality between men and women remains a lofty yet arduous task. Looking ahead, we should rededicate ourselves to the purpose of the Beijing World Conference on Women, build greater consensus, broaden the paths forward, and take more concrete actions to accelerate the new process of women’s all-round development. To this end, President Xi made four proposals. Read more at: https://www.mfa.gov.cn/eng/xw/zyxw/202510/t20251013_11731616.html

Miami Carnival has long been a showcase of Caribbean rhythm and unity, where islands bring their best sounds to one of the diaspora’s most anticipated cultural celebrations. This year, Bouyon, the signature genre from Dominica, is set to command new attention with Big Bad Bouyon — a key event in the newly launched Big Bad Festival , a three-day Caribbean music experience curated by Jay Upscale. From October 10–11, 2025, Soca, Dancehall, Konpa, and Bouyon come alive at Big Bad Festival. While Soca and Dancehall have typically dominated the Miami Carnival scene, this year, Saturday night belongs to Bouyon — the energetic, rhythm-driven call-and-response music born in the Nature Isle that has been steadily gaining global recognition. Known for curating musical events in the tri-state area, Jay Upscale the festival’s founder, is privy to the meteoric rise of the genre. “Bouyon is more than music, it’s an energy, a movement,” he says, “Bringing it to Miami Carnival isn’t just about diversifying the sound; it’s about showing how deeply the Caribbean diaspora connects through rhythm.” The Big Bad Bouyon event will take place at Toe Jam , an edgy and intimate venue in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. The lineup is led by Ridge , a two-time Caribbean Music Awards Bouyon Artist of the Year winner, alongside performers 1T1 , Edday , Shelly , Reo , Trilla-G , Infrared, DJ Luchshiy , and Unstoppable Shax . The night promises to capture the genre’s raw pulse — one rooted in Dominica’s carnival culture yet resonating far beyond the island. For Ridge, the Miami debut marks a milestone for Bouyon’s growing international reach. “To perform bouyon on a Miami Carnival stage is such a good feeling,” Ridge says. “Bouyon music is the hottest genre right now going into the Carnival. It’s proof that our sound — born in the streets and studios of Dominica — now moves crowds across the world” Big Bad Festival unfolds across three major nights. Carnival Friday opens with performances by Skinny Fabulous , Problem Child , and Lady Lava , setting the tone with Soca anthems, while Big Bad Brunch will close off the event on Monday October 13th. Saturday spotlights Bouyon in its purest form. For Shelly of Signal Band , one of Dominica’s leading Bouyon groups, Miami’s embrace of the genre represents a cultural breakthrough. “Bouyon has always been about expression and identity,” he explains. “It is truly an honour representing the music that I grew up on in Dominica.” From the streets of Roseau to stages in London and now Miami, Bouyon continues to expand its footprint, evolving while staying true to its roots in rhythm and community. As the Caribbean diaspora gathers this October, Big Bad Bouyon is more than just another event, it’s a declaration that Dominica’s sound has arrived on one of the world’s biggest carnival stages. Credit" On Target Comm

The American Canadian School of Medicine (ACSOM), in partnership with the RayAsta Foundation and the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, will host Stroke Awareness Day on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the ACSOM campus on Ross Boulevard, Picard, Portsmouth. The event aims to raise awareness about stroke prevention, recognition, and rehabilitation while offering free health screenings and educational sessions to the public. Screenings will include blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, waist circumference, cardiovascular risk assessments, and cognitive and reflex tests. Participants will also benefit from interactive education and training sessions covering stroke anatomy and risk factors, lifestyle and prevention strategies, rehabilitation, and resources for family caregivers. Games, refreshments, and opportunities to meet ACSOM students and faculty will also be available. “Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death,” explains Dr. Sofiia Kozyreva, a rehabilitation specialist and faculty member at ACSOM. “Awareness of risk factors can help prevent strokes, and early detection along with timely medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes.” Dr. Kozyreva emphasizes that prevention through education—such as managing blood pressure, diabetes, diet, and smoking habits—plays a vital role in reducing the risk of stroke. “Some of these risk factors can even be screened for right at our event,” she added. Stroke Awareness Day forms part of ACSOM’s commitment to community health education and early disease prevention in Dominica. The RayAsta Foundation is proud to partner in this initiative, strengthening its mission to empower communities through health and awareness.

By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator, on behalf of Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) Ask any farmer, fisher, or vendor across the Caribbean how they prepare for storms, and the answer may vary. It may be a call to a close family or friend, a community partner’s “susu” group or syndicates, or a few hard-earned dollars stashed away for a rainy day.  It's a system rooted in trust and tradition. People feel confident and at ease when their contributions are managed by people they know and trust. They can keep track of the money. They know who is in charge. They can see where the money goes. It feels safe. Traditional insurance, on the other hand, often feels far away. It’s seen as expensive, complicated, and built for others, not for informal workers who do not have the paperwork, land titles, or steady income streams that policies usually demand. And many simply don’t trust it. The Limits of Savings Alone That’s why, across five Caribbean countries, the  Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)  research found that savings is the primary form of disaster preparation. But surprisingly, 80% of surveyed organizations do not collect regular membership fees, which also suggests that paying monthly insurance premiums can be out of reach. And there's a lack of trust in payouts. Who wants to pay a company for years, only to have them deny a claim when you need it most? But savings has limits. A partner’s “susu” group or syndicates might help a few fishers replace damaged nets, but not rebuild dozens of boats. A cooperative’s emergency fund might restock a handful of vendors, but not cover an entire market wiped out by a storm. And because most organizations don’t collect regular membership fees, there simply isn’t enough money to stretch across big, repeated disasters. What is Meso-Level CDRFI? This is where meso-level Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) comes in. “Meso” means “in the middle.” It bridges the gap between national disaster relief programs (macro) and what individual households can do (micro). It works through trusted community institutions, credit unions, cooperatives, CSOs, that already manage people’s money and livelihoods. How Meso-Level CDRFI Strengthens Savings Meso-level CDRFI doesn’t replace savings; it strengthens them through three layers of protection: Parametric Insurance:  provides fast payouts when a hurricane or flood meets pre-agreed triggers. No paperwork, no delays. Indemnity Insurance:  covers specific losses that parametric payments might miss, like damaged crops or destroyed equipment (boats, market stalls, etc). Community Savings Funds:  keeps local savings central but links them to bigger financial tools, so money goes further when shocks are large. This combined model builds on what communities already trust, savings and local management, while adding stronger financial tools for bigger disasters. It respects the reality that Caribbean people value self-reliance and community control, but recognizes that the scale of today’s climate risks demands more than tradition alone. This way, when disasters are stronger and more frequent, communities don’t run out of money halfway through recovery.  Why This Matters for the Caribbean The stakes are real. Hurricane Beryl destroyed 75% of Barbados’s fishing boats, leaving many families without income. Floods in Dominica wiped out crops before farmers could replant for the next season. These are losses that savings alone cannot cover. For the Caribbean to thrive in the face of rising climate risks, communities need more than tradition. They need protection that is both trusted and sustainable. Meso-level CDRFI combines the best of both worlds: the trust of local savings with the strength of shared insurance. Together, they make sure Caribbean communities can bounce back faster, without losing what they’ve worked so hard to build. Explore the Risk Resilience Hub to learn more about why savings matter, where they fall short, and how communities can combine old traditions with new tools for smarter climate protection.

The Honourable Adrian Thomas, Minister of Tourism, led a delegation comprised of Grenada Tourism Authority's Chief Executive Officer Stacey Liburd and Chief Marketing Officer Tornia Charles to the 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, held under the theme “Reimagining Caribbean Tourism: Research, Relevance and the Road Ahead.” Hosted by the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the conference convened more than 400 delegates from 31 countries and 50 industry experts to explore the future of Caribbean tourism through data-driven insights, innovation and regional partnership. The Grenada delegation actively participated in strategic meetings and bilateral discussions with regional counterparts, exploring opportunities for collaboration in marketing, airlift and investment to strengthen the Caribbean’s collective appeal as a global tourism powerhouse. During the event, the delegation engaged in a destination media briefing, highlighting Grenada’s growth over the past 12 months and outlining strategic priorities for 2026. The session drew strong regional media interest, particularly around visitor performance, product expansion and future market development plans. “Participating in SOTIC 2025 reaffirmed our commitment to evidence-based decision-making and deeper regional alignment,” said Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our engagements throughout the conference have positioned Grenada as a proactive, data-driven destination, focused on sustainability and meaningful partnerships.” Chief Executive Officer Stacey Liburd noted, "This year's SOTIC reinforced that our strength lies in working together as a region. The conversations and connections made this week will help us refine Grenada's strategic focus while contributing to the broader advancement of Caribbean tourism." The Honourable Adrian Thomas, Minister of Tourism, added, “SOTIC remains a critical space for aligning our regional vision and exploring solutions that drive sustainable growth. Grenada’s active participation reflects our unwavering commitment to collaboration, research and innovation as we build a stronger future for Caribbean tourism.” Grenada was also represented in the Regional Tourism Youth Congress by Kealah Baptiste, student of the T.A. Marryshow Community College and Grenada’s Tourism Youth Minister. Her presentation highlighted the creativity and perspective of the next generation of tourism leaders, underscoring the importance of youth involvement in shaping the region’s tourism future. With SOTIC 2025 concluded, the Grenada Tourism Authority remains committed to nurturing partnerships that will help shape its 2026 agenda, focusing on innovation, connectivity and continued growth for Grenada’s tourism industry.

In a continued effort to strengthen regional ties, and share the rich, vibrant spirit of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) recently concluded a successful series of promotional activations in Barbados. This initiative formed part of GTA’s strategic commitment to deepening regional connectivity and positioning the Tri-Island State as a premier destination within the Caribbean. The activations highlighted Grenada’s diverse offerings, with a particular focus on its accommodation sector, cultural calendar, and signature events. Stakeholders and attendees were given a compelling preview of what’s to come, as the team spotlighted upcoming festivals and immersive experiences that underscore the unique appeal of Pure Grenada, The Spice of the Caribbean. “This promotion in Barbados builds on an earlier sales mission this year, where we recognized the need for more strategic engagement with travel agents and media,” said Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer at the GTA. “This activation featured an exclusive Travel Agent and Media Dinner, bringing together over 50 key stakeholders for an evening of connection and insight into Grenada’s expanding tourism product. These activities are vital to strengthening partnerships and keeping Grenada top of mind as a leading Caribbean destination.” The promotional efforts continued with a vibrant consumer pop-up event where the energy and flavour of Grenada came alive. Visitors enjoyed live entertainment, including a powerful performance by Sakinah Ambrose, second-place winner of the Groovy Monarch competition 2025, who wowed the crowd with her talent and stage presence. Attendees also got to indulge in authentic Grenadian oil down, while participating in exciting giveaways courtesy of various tourism stakeholders. The event created an electric atmosphere that captured the warmth of the destination. The success of the Barbados activations was made possible through strong partnerships with key players in the accommodation, transportation, and entertainment sectors, as well as airline partners. “We are thrilled by the enthusiastic reception we received in Barbados,” said Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “These regional engagements are critical to our mission. They not only build awareness but also foster invaluable partnerships that drive tourism growth. Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique offer a world of experiences, and we’re excited to share them with our Caribbean neighbours and beyond.” The Grenada Tourism Authority remains steadfast in its mission to elevate the profile of the Tri-Island State both regionally and internationally. With a robust calendar of events ahead and continued investment in partnerships and promotions, Grenada is poised for even greater visibility and growth.

The Dominica Labour Party will on Thursday, October 9, 2025 host the Rosie Douglas Memorial Lecture at the State House Conference Room beginning at 6:30 p.m. The lecture will be delivered by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Hon. Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves. The event holds special significance as it commemorates the 25th anniversary of the passing of the late Prime Minister Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas, a leader whose vision, activism and unyielding commitment to social justice and Caribbean unity left an indelible mark on Dominica and the wider region. Douglas passed away on October 1, 2000, just eight months after assuming office as Prime Minister, following general elections held on January 31. The Memorial Lecture provides an opportunity for reflection on his contributions to nation-building and the empowerment of small states. Dr. Gonsalves, a regional colleague of Douglas, is expected to explore the themes which defined his public life such as unity among Caribbean nations, the advancement of people-centered development, and the strengthening of bonds between the Caribbean, Africa and the global community. The event is open to all who wish to honour the memory and legacy of the late Dominican leader, Rosie Douglas. Credit: The Sun

Islands unite to promote multi-destination travel experiences for global visitors   — Dominica and Barbados have signed a landmark tourism partnership through an agreement to collaborate on promoting their tourism products and offering enhanced multi-destination packages.   The historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on October 1 at the Hilton Barbados Resort during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC). The partnership between Dominica, the Nature Isle and Barbados, the Gem of the Caribbean— marks a significant step toward deepening regional ties and delivering greater value to travellers.   The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) entered into the MOU to cement this step toward strengthening the appeal of both countries, promoting sustainable tourism and developing new vacation experiences for travellers.   The MOU establishes a joint framework for cooperation, focusing on marketing, knowledge exchange and enhancing visitor experiences across both destinations. This collaboration is especially timely as the Caribbean continues to attract travellers from Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States and Latin America seeking diverse and enriching experiences.   The agreement was signed by Marva Williams, CEO and Director of DDA and Andrea Franklin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BTMI. Cheryl Carter, Chief Operations Officer of BTMI; Graham Clarke, BTMI’s Director for the Caribbean; and Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive at DDA, witnessed the signing. Franklin acknowledged Barbados’ reputation as a tourism leader but stressed that the MOU would be mutually beneficial, emphasizing the need for creative collaboration and regional unity.   “Dominica may see Barbados as a tourism ‘grandparent,’ but there’s so much we can learn from each other. Barbados is proud to be the premier home port cruising destination in the region and we see this as an opportunity to attract more business to neighbouring islands as well,” Franklin said.   She added that the MOU serves as a stepping stone and could open doors to similar agreements with other islands.   “When it comes to attracting airlift to the region, it’s vital that we stop viewing ourselves as individual countries competing for flights. Instead, we must work together to bring more airlift into the Caribbean. If Barbados serves as the hub, we should channel that connectivity to our sister islands, like Dominica, ensuring all destinations benefit,” Franklin said.   “Our teams will meet to strategize on marketing and to engage airlines and cruise lines, ensuring we maximize the benefits of this partnership. We’re especially excited to collaborate in areas such as sports, eco-tourism and sustainable tourism, all of which are essential to the future of Caribbean travel,” Franklin added.   Williams supported Franklin’s comments by underscoring the value in leveraging the already strong relationship between the nations. They intend to ensure it benefits both destinations financially.   “This collaboration is part of a larger conversation and we look forward to learning from Barbados, which will help build greater awareness and create a ripple effect on the GDP and economic opportunities for both our countries,” Williams said. “We all have unique attributes to offer and this partnership isn’t just about tourism; it’s about exploring opportunities in other industries, such as manufacturing, that can benefit both nations. Improving air access is essential so that our people can move around the Caribbean efficiently and effectively,” Williams added.   Key areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement include: Curating and promoting multi-destination tourism packages that highlight the unique cultural, eco-tourism, adventure and wellness offerings of Dominica and Barbados Supporting the development of air and cruise connections to facilitate seamless travel between islands Coordinating media exchanges, media familiarisation tours, joint training and public relations events to raise the profile of both destinations globally Sharing expertise in sustainable tourism and product enhancement to ensure lasting benefits for local communities and the environment   Historically, Caribbean nations have recognised the value of working together to attract long-haul visitors, allowing travellers to experience the region’s diversity in a single trip. Graham Clarke, BTMI’s Director for the Caribbean, said that the new MOU builds on this tradition.   “Today’s global travellers are seeking value-added experiences and deeper engagement with local communities. This collaboration with the Nature Isle adds a unique dimension to the Barbados tourism product, and we believe Dominica will benefit in the same way. We’re excited for what this partnership means, not just for our tourism sectors, but for visitors, who will enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences across both destinations,” Clarke said.   A joint working group will oversee the implementation of the MOU with biannual progress reviews and the development of a detailed action plan to ensure the partnership achieves its objectives. Both parties have agreed that each will bear its own implementation costs with joint initiatives subject to separate funding agreements as needed.