Search Results

Across Dominica, a growing number of young people are redefining what agriculture looks like not as a last resort, but as a smart, sustainable way to earn, innovate, and contribute to national development. From agro-processing to beekeeping, youth are finding modern pathways into agriculture that allow them to balance careers, entrepreneurship, and environmental responsibility. Supported by initiatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), young people and returnees are being empowered to build livelihoods that are rooted in local resources while strengthening community resilience. Agriculture, once seen as labour-intensive and limiting, is now emerging as a space for innovation, flexibility, and long-term opportunity. One area gaining renewed interest among youth is beekeeping, a venture that offers income potential while supporting food production and environmental health. For young entrepreneurs, it represents a practical entry point into agriculture, especially for those who may already be employed full-time. Shem Jacob  is one such example. A police officer by profession and the owner of Bud’s Backyard Honey , Shem began beekeeping in 2020 after intentionally seeking a sustainable business he could manage alongside his career. “When I started my career as a police officer, I wanted to do a second job. I was serious about a business on the side,” he explains. “I found out that honey doesn’t spoil, and bees are an animal that you can leave for a few days, a few weeks, and go and come back. You don’t have to attend to them every day.” That flexibility has allowed Shem to build a business without sacrificing stability,  a model that resonates strongly with young people navigating employment, family life, and entrepreneurship. Today, his operation produces pure honey and beeswax, which he sells through local markets and directly to customers. Beyond income generation, Shem describes beekeeping as deeply grounding. “Beekeeping is very nice. It’s a very peaceful venture,” he says. “It brings you out to nature, and you actually see what small creatures can do.” He notes that producing a single bottle of honey requires the collective work of hundreds of bees,  a reminder of the value of cooperation and care for the natural world. Importantly, beekeeping supports much more than the beekeeper. Bees play a critical role in pollinating crops such as cucumbers, peppers, watermelon, coconuts, and citrus. With healthier bee populations, farmers experience improved yields, stronger food systems, and greater resilience in the face of climate challenges. This directly supports goals around food security, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience. Shem also contributes to the wider agricultural sector through his role on the board of the Dominica Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. , where he helps support training, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among beekeepers across the island. “It actually opens the door to networking, meeting other beekeepers, and learning a lot,” he shares. The cooperative also connects members to regional opportunities, strengthening skills and exposing young farmers to best practices across the Caribbean. “We actually need more beekeepers on the island,” Shem emphasizes. “You cannot saturate the honey market. There’s always a need for honey and byproducts of honey and bees.” His message to young people is clear: agriculture is not only viable, it is essential. “I would encourage younger persons, anyone who feels they have the potential or the time to come into beekeeping. You’re not only making a profit for yourself, but also helping farmers and building the country.” For IOM, stories like Shem’s demonstrate how empowering youth through agriculture supports broader development goals, creating decent work, strengthening food systems, protecting ecosystems, and helping communities remain resilient and self-reliant. By investing in young people and sustainable livelihoods, Dominica is building a future where economic growth and environmental care go hand in hand. As more young Dominicans turn to agriculture with fresh perspectives and modern approaches, they are proving that working the land — and working with nature — can be a powerful way to shape their futures and the future of the island.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is reinforcing Grenada’s position as a premier marine and nautical destination with a dynamic slate of sailing and sportfishing events set to anchor the island’s 2026 nautical season. Spanning competitive regattas, international rallies and heritage celebrations, the calendar reflects sustained growth within one of Grenada’s most strategically valuable tourism segments. Grenada’s appeal within the global sailing and yachting community continues to be shaped by its natural geography, modern marina infrastructure and reputation as a safe, welcoming port of entry to the Southern Caribbean. With deep-water harbours, sheltered anchorages and seamless access to Carriacou and Petite Martinique, the tri-island state has steadily evolved into a destination of choice for both competitive and leisure mariners. A major highlight of the season is the Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament, scheduled for January 25–30, which enters a new chapter in 2026 with Pure Grenada named Title Sponsor for the first time. The tournament has been one of the Caribbean’s most established sportfishing events for over 50 years and has drawn anglers to Grenada for decades and continues to play a vital role in promoting the island’s marine heritage and high-value visitor experiences. “The Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament represents the calibre of event that aligns with Grenada’s broader tourism vision,” said Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Our decision to step forward as Title Sponsor reflects a strategic commitment to strengthening the sportfishing sector while reinforcing Grenada’s standing as a serious maritime destination.” Running concurrently, Grenada Sailing Week will also take place from January 25–30, with opening events hosted in Carriacou, underscoring the growing role of the Sister Isles within Grenada’s tourism narrative. The event blends competitive racing with cultural programming, encouraging extended stays and deeper engagement across communities. Traditional seafaring takes centre stage during the Workboat Regatta, scheduled for January 31–February 1, which celebrates Grenada’s long-standing boat-building and racing traditions. Sailors from coastal communities throughout Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique compete in handcrafted vessels, preserving a living maritime legacy that remains central to the destination’s identity. The season continues into February with the arrival of the Vikings Explorer Rally, an international cruising fleet whose participants typically spend several weeks on island. Their presence contributes directly to marina activity, local businesses, cultural exchange and community interaction, reinforcing the economic multiplier effect of nautical tourism. “Each of these events contributes to a broader ecosystem,” said Shanai St. Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the GTA. “From international rallies to community-rooted regattas, the nautical sector delivers sustained value, visibility, and authenticity for the destination.” Together, the 2026 nautical calendar reflects a deliberate and coordinated approach to marine tourism development, one that balances heritage preservation with international exposure and long-term growth. As planning for the 2027 season begins, Grenada remains focused on advancing its maritime identity and strengthening its position within the global sailing and sportfishing landscape.

Fifteen (15) farmers and over 20 government officials and private sector stakeholders comprised the initial group who participated in the week-long mission and workshop The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy in Antigua and Barbuda recently completed a week-long mission aimed at transforming local protected agriculture farms into bankable investment opportunities. The mission brought together an initial group of 15 farmers and over 20 government officials and private sector stakeholders. With the goal of transforming the island's agricultural sector into a prosperous, investment-ready opportunity starting with these farms; the mission comprised a focused agribusiness training session, farm surveys, and field interviews. Led by FAO Agribusiness Finance Specialist Dr. Omardath Maharaj, the mission focused on strengthening the financial viability of greenhouse, hydroponic, and shade house farming systems, while supporting national efforts to scale up climate-smart and digital agricultural technologies. This intervention is built on earlier initiatives that laid the groundwork for water security and nature-based solutions on model farms, as well as the Water–Energy–Food Nexus sub-project under the Mexico–CARICOM–FAO Initiative, “Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean” two years ago. The mission sought to bolster current investments in water management, digital tools, and protected crop production by utilizing FAO's continuing efforts in climate-resilient agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda. It accomplished this by gathering operational and financial data at the farm level and confirming market demand. This laid the groundwork for investment-ready business cases that may raise capital and develop sustainable agricultural innovations. One of the mission's primary deliverables was the workshop,"From Data to Dollars: Building a Profitable & Resilient Farm Business," which was held on December 1, 2025, at the Agricultural Extension Division in St. John's. An estimated 19 participants, including extension officers, agri-entrepreneurs, and protected agriculture farmers, were trained on topics such as how to connect farm records and cost-of-production data to business models that are ready for investment.Local farmer, Ms Kathleen Forde of Seasonz Hydroponics Farm who attended the training, conveyed her appreciation for the session and its content. She expressed hope that the analysis will enhance farm operations and the country's agricultural output and called thetraining and field tour "timely and informative." Mr Ika Fergus, Acting Chief Extension Officer and FAO National Correspondent stated, “The mission’s outcomes directly align with the strategic goals of the Ministry. The developed business models will provide farmers with clear financial justifications and planning tools to advance commercialization and attract investment, particularly in protected agriculture systems critical for climate resilience”. Dr Maharaj emphasized that meetings with major buyers, including supermarkets and hotels, revealed significant import demand for high-value crops such as tomatoes, lettuces, and bell peppers. He noted that the follow-up farm surveys and stakeholder consultations with the Antigua and Barbuda Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) and Epicurean Fine Foods; Pharmacy helped validate market demand and operational realities. Dr Maharaj further highlighted that, “Farmers are ready to adopt new technologies, but they need viable business plans to secure financing. This mission helped bridge that gap”. The next step in the project will focus on analysing the collected data to produce five tailored business cases by February 2026. These will support farmers seeking financing and assist the Ministry in attracting investment into a more sustainable, resilient, and profitable agricultural sector, strengthening import substitution and improved livelihoods.

The knockoff round of the 2026 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition begins today, Thursday, January 22, signalling the official start of the national debate season and setting the stage for intense intellectual showdowns among the island’s top secondary schools. This was stated by Trudy Christian, organizer of the event, who confirmed that the annual competition opens with the first round, where only the highest-scoring teams will advance. The opening day of debates features six schools engaging the motion: “Local communities should have veto power over projects that significantly affect their environment.” Competing on this topic today are Orion Academy, Isaiah Thomas Secondary School, Wesley High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Convent High School, and Arthur Waldron Seventh-Day Adventist Academy. Debates continue on Friday, January 23, with three schools tackling the motion: “The legal driving age in Dominica should be lowered to increase youth independence and national productivity.” The participating schools on Friday are Castle Bruce Secondary School, St. Martin Secondary School, and Portsmouth Secondary School. At the conclusion of the knockoff round, the schools with the highest scores will advance to Round Two, where they will meet the reigning champions, Dominica Grammar School. Of the nine schools competing in this opening phase, only seven will progress. Christian expressed optimism about the level of excitement and public interest surrounding the competition. She encouraged members of the public to attend the debates, which will be held at the Dominica State College Upper Campus beginning at 2:00 p.m., or to tune in online, as proceedings will be live streamed via Emo News and Dominica News Online. She further thanked the sponsors, including main sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., for supporting the initiative and for their sustained commitment to encouraging youth participation and meaningful national discourse.

The Rotary Club of Dominica officially handed over a rehabilitated chicken coop to the 4-H Club of the Grandbay Primary School during a brief but meaningful ceremony held on Friday, January 16, 2026. The project, valued at EC$27,000, was made possible through generous funding from the Rotary Club of Gateshead, England in partnership with the Rotary Club of Dominica, and forms part of Rotary’s ongoing commitment to youth development, food security, and practical skills training within schools and communities. In addition to the rehabilitation works, 50 broilers and 50 layers were provided to the 4H Club to ensure the initiative begins on a strong and sustainable footing. The chicken coop will serve as a hands-on agricultural learning facility for students involved in the school’s 4-H programme, providing opportunities to develop responsibility, entrepreneurship, teamwork, and basic livestock management skills. Delivering remarks at the ceremony, President of the Rotary Club of Dominica, Dr. Jermaine Jewel Jean-Pierre, emphasized the importance of empowering young people through practical, sustainable projects. “This chicken coop is more than a structure; it is an investment in the future of our children. Through initiatives like this, Rotary seeks to equip young people with life skills, promote self-reliance, and encourage an appreciation for agriculture as a viable pathway for development,” Dr. Jean-Pierre stated. Also addressing the gathering, Principal of Grandbay Primary School, Mr. Evans James, expressed sincere gratitude to both Rotary Clubs for their support. “On behalf of the staff and students of Grandbay Primary School, I extend heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club of Dominica and the Rotary Club of Gateshead. This project will significantly enhance our 4-H programme and provide meaningful learning experiences for our students,” Mr. James said. Principal Mr. James also stated that the initiative is designed to be self-sustaining, as eggs produced will be sold to members of the community. Proceeds from the sales will support the school’s feeding programme while also providing funds for the ongoing maintenance of the chicken coop, including the purchase of feed and other essential supplies. Members of the school community, Rotary representatives, and students were present for the handover, which underscored the value of international partnership and community collaboration in advancing education and youth development. The Rotary Club of Dominica continues to work closely with local and international partners to implement projects that positively impact communities across the island.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy wishes to provide clarity to unfounded information being circulated on social media about a national of the United States of America who is currently on remand at the Dominica State Prison. While the Ministry is not in the business of responding to hearsay and baseless statements, it is felt that these particular statements, which are maliciously being peddled by the opposition, should be addressed. It is public knowledge that Jonathan Scott Lehrer is one of two U.S. nationals on remand at the Dominica State Prison. In accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, the Embassy of the United States in Bridgetown requested and was given permission to visit and/ or hold meetings with both nationals since November, 2024. It is standard Consular Practice for Diplomatic Missions to extend consular assistance to their nationals who are detained overseas, including, facilitating consular access and visits, subject to the relevant procedures of the receiving state. The request was made to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via Diplomatic Note and confirmation was given by the Ministry of National Security and response was then returned to the U.S. Embassy. As noted earlier, this has been ongoing since November 2024. The last meeting between the two nationals and the Embassy was held on January 14, 2026, virtually. Another in-person meeting is scheduled for February 2026 at a date and time to be confirmed by the Ministry of National Security. The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and respect in its treatment of all detainees, and has at all times facilitated Consular access for accredited representatives to their detained nationals consistent with established practice. To give the impression that this exercise is an attempt to reach an arrangement of some sort with the U.S. Government is malicious and misleading. The Ministry’s advice to the general public is to allow the justice system to take its course and refrain from making statements that could have adverse effects on the trial.

The Dominica Lions Club, together with the District Governor of Lions Clubs International District 60B, paid a courtesy call on Her Excellency the President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Mrs Sylvanie Burton on January 16, 2026. The meeting formed part of the District Governor’s official visit and provided an opportunity to reaffirm the Lions Club’s commitment to service, community development, and partnership in advancing the well-being of the Dominican people. During the courtesy call, discussions highlighted the longstanding contributions of the Dominica Lions Club in areas such as health, youth development, disaster response, and community service. The District Governor shared the vision and priorities of District 60B, with emphasis on strengthening service impact, leadership development, and membership engagement across the district. Her Excellency expressed appreciation for the dedication and voluntary service of Lions locally and internationally, commending the organisation for its continued positive impact on communities throughout Dominica. The President also underscored the importance of civic-minded organisations in national development and social cohesion especially for the young people, particularly the young men. She commended the Leo Club on its role in youth development and the involvement of young men in both clubs. The Dominica Lions Club reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with national stakeholders and upholding the Lions Clubs International motto, “We Serve.”

Progressism 2026: The Summit concluded in Dominica with resounding affirmation that the future of the Caribbean and Africa is being shaped not only by policies and markets, but by people, relationships, and shared purpose. Celebrated as the Ultimate New Year gathering for professionals and entrepreneurs across sectors, the summit delivered profound dialogue, practical opportunities, and transformative experiences for participants joining both physically and virtually from across the world. Reflecting on the event, one participant captured the spirit of the summit: “A truly amazing event which was packed but very profound and relevant dialogue. My two biggest takeaways were radical collaboration and building solid professional relationships.”  Another shared, “Progressism gave me the extra boost to push it forward… this time around was too good.”  Speakers echoed the sentiment, with one noting, “It is an amazing event. I look forward to future collaborations.” Keynote speaker Kareem Guiste  drew from his career across the Caribbean and beyond to highlight that success is built more on relationships than on resources. He challenged the culture of fear around failure, urging attendees to take risks, embrace new opportunities, and nurture confidence. His message resonated deeply: meaningful engagements and networks are often the true currency of progress. Dr. Hilary Thomas Lake , renowned expert on Africa–Caribbean relations, invited participants to rethink how the two regions see each other. She addressed misconceptions while illuminating tangible opportunities for trade, education, and cultural exchange. Her call was clear—partnerships must be sustainable, mutually respectful, and rooted in a confident understanding of identity and shared history. Panelists Alisha Ally, Dr. Clementine Afana, and Kenneth Oguzi  explored practical strategies for strengthening Africa–Caribbean trade. Discussions examined how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)  and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)  can become engines for cooperation while confronting realities such as visa restrictions, limited air and maritime links, and inadequate financial infrastructure. Across sessions, a central theme emerged: storytelling, cultural understanding, and people-to-people exchange are the foundation of durable economic ties. The summit also showcased entrepreneurial excellence. John Francois , Founder & CEO of Asili Coffee , presented Ghana-based initiatives advancing coffee production through outgrower programs, solar-powered retail units, and environmental stewardship. His story demonstrated how African enterprises are blending innovation with community empowerment. From Dominica, Terry Henry Lovell  of Be Natural  inspired the room with her bee-based enterprise journey—from a single lip balm to a multi-award-winning brand. Through the Buzz Academy, her company has educated over 600 children on the value of bees and agri-processing. She advocated for simplified intra-Caribbean trade systems and better shipping routes to unlock growth for small businesses. Powerful interventions from Marva Williams, Kevin Fahie, and Jael Joseph  further energized the audience with messages on breaking barriers, building confidence, and owning one’s narrative through entrepreneurship and brand development. Beyond the Summit, delegates experienced Dominica’s innovation firsthand with a visit to the Geothermal Power Plant. , learning about this landmark renewable energy project and its implications. The week culminated with a celebratory Sunset Cruise , sealing new friendships and collaborations against the island’s breathtaking coastline. Lizra Fabien, Founder of The Progressive Mind and Progressism , reflected on the impact of the gathering shared, “Progressism 2026 proved that when the Caribbean and Africa meet intentionally, magic happens. This summit was not just about conversations but about confidence restored, collaborations ignited, and dreams given permission to expand. Our mission is to create spaces where professionals and entrepreneurs from Dominica and across the world can see beyond borders, recognize their collective power, and build enterprises and friendships that shape generations. I am deeply grateful to every speaker, partner, and participant who believed in this vision and whose energy made this edition exceptional.” Progressism 2026 was made possible through the valued support of our sponsors: The National Bank of Dominica Limited, The Discover Dominica Authority, FAB Adventures, Talent Enablement Network, MediaLinx, Intercontinental Cabrits Resort & Spa, and Fort Young Hotel.  Their commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional integration continues to strengthen this growing movement. The 2026 summit reaffirmed that when Africa and the Caribbean meet as equals with courage, creativity, and community, the possibilities are limitless. Progressism now sets its sights on the 6th edition in January 2027 , continuing its mission to build bridges without borders and to transform connections into collective prosperity.

The Strengthening Community Resilience in the Kalinago Territory (SCR-K) project convened its first Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the St. Cyr Resource Centre, formally establishing governance and oversight arrangements for the initiative aimed at enhancing climate-resilient agriculture, forest and watershed restoration, and sustainable ecotourism. The project is funded by the Government of India through the United Nations Office of South-to-South Cooperation and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica through the Ministry of Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment and the Kalinago Council. The meeting brought together senior Government officials, community leadership, donor representatives, and UNDP staff. Participants included the representative of the High Commission of India, Mr. Sukhvinder Malik; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment and Senior Beneficiary of the project, Ms. Lisa Valmond; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Ryan Anselm; and Ms. Gweneth Frederick, representing the Ministry of Tourism. The Kalinago Council was represented by Mr. Wayne Rossie, standing in for Kalinago Chief, Ms. Annette Sanford. The meeting was chaired by Ms. Elizabeth Charles-Soomer, Prevention, Recovery and Resilience Cluster Lead with UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, with participation from Mr. Justin Shone, Head of the UNDP Dominica Project Office, and Ms. Sawana Fabien, Project Analyst at UNDP. In her remarks, Permanent Secretary Valmond underscored that the meeting took place within an important national context where development priorities are framed around resilience, empowerment, and inclusive growth. “The Kalinago people have long demonstrated strength, cultural pride, and resourcefulness, and this project speaks directly to those values,” she said. “We are grateful for UNDP’s continued support and leadership in championing initiatives that align with national priorities, sector strategies, and the Ministry’s objectives, while empowering the Kalinago people as leaders and agents of change.” She expressed appreciation to UNDP for its continued support and to the Government of India for investing in a project that is both timely and critical. “The benefits of this initiative extend well beyond activities on the ground, reaching into resilience, livelihoods, and sustainable community empowerment within the Kalinago Territory,” Ms. Valmond noted. “While the Kalinago people are beneficiaries of development, they are also leaders and agents of change—shaping outcomes and sustaining benefits beyond the project lifecycle.” Speaking on behalf of UNDP, Ms. Charles-Soomer underscored the importance of strong governance and partnerships in delivering results. “This first Steering Committee meeting lays the foundation for effective coordination, accountability, and results-driven implementation,” she said. “UNDP remains committed to working alongside Government, the Kalinago Council, and development partners to ensure this project delivers lasting, community-led impact.” Representing the donor, Mr. Malik highlighted the project as a reflection of the strong partnership between India and the Caribbean. “This project is a signing testament to the enduring bonds of friendship between India and the Caribbean region as a whole, particularly empowering the indigenous communities. This project is on improving resilience in agriculture, enhancing forest and watersheds restoration and strengthening indigenous tourism. These things, they not only address the vulnerabilities they also enrich the rich cultural heritage of the Kalinago people. It ensures that resilience is built on a foundation of tradition and innovation” Mr. Malik also emphasized the importance of capacity building as a core component of the project, noting that members of the Kalinago community may benefit from targeted technical exchanges, including opportunities under the Government of India’s iTech Programme. “Together, we are not just building resilience,” he added. “We are nurturing hope, prosperity, and a brighter future — not only for the Kalinago people, but for Indigenous communities and Dominica as a whole.” During the meeting, the Steering Committee reviewed the project’s objectives, governance structure, and proposed 2026 work plan, with an indicative budget of approximately 888,000 USD (2,350,000 XCD). The Steering Committee concluded by reaffirming its commitment to results-oriented implementation and agreed on key next steps to accelerate delivery in 2026, expressing confidence that the project will lay a strong foundation for long-term resilience and inclusive development in the Kalinago Territory. Following the formal session, participants took part in a guided site tour of the Kalinago Barana Autê (KBA) Model Village, showcasing traditional knowledge, cultural heritage, and livelihood activities. The site visit demonstrated how the SCR-K project will enhance existing visitor experiences in line with the Government’s strategic vision to integrate traditional knowledge with modern innovation, strengthen individual and community capacity, stimulate local economic activity, and support sustainable livelihoods.

Cabinet, at its meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, approved the creation of thirty-four (34) established positions of Public Health Aide within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, classified at Level II, as part of Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen primary and community-based health services. Cabinet further approved annual financing of $702,836.10 under Primary Health Care and the transition of all temporary and contracted Public Health Aides into established posts, subject to standard recruitment and verification. The decision is intended to strengthen health system resilience, improve staff retention and continuity of care, enhance accountability and performance management, and increase administrative efficiency by eliminating repeated contract renewals and the need for recurring Cabinet approvals. This approval builds on a May 2025 Government decision to regularise over eighty (80) long-serving non-established workers across the public service, reflecting a continued commitment to modernising and stabilising the public sector workforce.

Cabinet, at its meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, approved the establishment of an Agricultural Land Lease Facility targeting young farmers and aimed at promoting investment in agriculture, aquaculture, mariculture, agro-processing and forestry. The Facility will operationalise Government’s commitment under the 2025 - 2026 Budget to make available a minimum of 300 acres of State land across Dominica for exclusive agricultural use. Identified sites include Newfoundland Estate, Londonderry Estate, Woodfordhill-Mango Gutter, Wesley-Joe Burton area, Morne Prosper, Charlotte Valley, Savanne York, Williams Settlement, Wotten Waven, Blenheim Estate, Pointe Mulatre Estate-Fond Thomas, Hertford Estate-Warner and Richmond Estate, Castle Bruce. Cabinet approved: o The allocation of State lands for agricultural leasing, with parcels ranging from 1 to 5 acres, leased at EC$1.00 per acre per annum for the first five (5) years, with an option to renew subject to continued agricultural use. o The appointment of a Technical Advisory Committee to oversee farmer selection and placement, guide enterprise development, recommend training, provide technical support and assist with investment planning and market access. The engagement of a Pupil Surveyor on contract as Agricultural Land Lease Technician to manage applications, surveys, lease administration, compliance monitoring, database development, and serve as Secretary to the Technical Advisory Committee. o The adoption of standardised lease terms and conditions, including exclusive agricultural use, five-year lease term, restrictions on subletting and habitation, compliance monitoring and automatic termination for breach. o Eligibility criteria targeting young and land-constrained farmers, including active involvement or proposals in agricultural production, farmer registration, valid Produce Sellers’ Licence and compliance with Social Security requirements. The Facility is intended to increase agricultural production, support young farmers, strengthen food security and drive sustainable rural economic development.

The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence, in collaboration with IsraAID, successfully concluded a comprehensive two days of First Aid and CPR certification training for primary and secondary school teachers. The initiative equipped 47 teachers from across the island with essential life-saving skills, ensuring a safer environment for students and the wider community. Participants underwent rigorous training in First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and the proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). These educators will be fully certified through the St. John Association of Saint Lucia, a recognized leader in first aid standards. Robert Guiste, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, emphasized the long-term impact of the program: "On Thursday, January 8th and Friday, January 9th, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with IsraAID Dominica, conducted first aid and CPR training with 47 teachers from primary and secondary schools across the island. The training was intended to increase schools' capacity to respond effectively to medical emergencies and accidents. This initiative aligns with our national priorities for building a safer, more resilient education system." Mr. Guiste continued, "In addition to the training sessions, Cabinet Secretariat will be procuring first aid kits and fire extinguishers for all schools. Moreover, considering the safety of our TVET teachers, personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided for teachers engaging the skill areas. The Ministry intends to continue with the first aid and CPR training; we will be conducting another session for at least 50 more teachers by the end of January 2026 and during the summer, we're hoping to train at least another 50 more teachers. This training that was recently concluded costed in excess of $8,000 and was covered by IsraAID Dominica. We wish to thank them for this initiative and look forward to a continued partnership." Wynela Francis, Senior Programme Officer at IsraAID, added: "As we begin the new year, we are happy to continue to support the Ministry of Education on this timely initiative. First Aid and CPR training is a lifesaving skill and increasing the number of trained staff will directly contribute to increased school safety and emergency preparedness." The sessions were facilitated by a new cohort of instructors who were trained during IsraAID and the Office of Disaster Management’s (ODM) 2025 capacity-building programs. These facilitators, who are also members of the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Services, represent a strategic effort to increase the number of qualified First Aid instructors on the island. This collaboration highlights a sustainable approach to disaster preparedness, utilizing local expertise to build long-term resilience within the Dominican education system.