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The International Democracy Union (IDU) wishes to express its deep concern regarding recent events in the Commonwealth of Dominica that have significant implications for the nation’s democratic principles, transparency, and the rule of law. Arrests of Opposition Members Reports indicate that several individuals, including prominent attorney and United Workers Party (UWP) member Ronald Charles, have been arrested and charged in connection with protests held on March 19, 2025. Mr. Charles, who has been representing numerous individuals previously detained for their peaceful participation in these protests, was himself arrested on April 9, 2025, and charged. He was subsequently granted bail. The IDU underscores the importance of safeguarding the constitutional rights of all citizens to freedom of speech, expression, and peaceful assembly. Call for Transparency and Judicial Independence There is clearly an urgent need for greater transparency, accountability, and good governance practices in the Commonwealth of Dominica. The IDU emphasizes that the protection of fundamental freedoms and rights is paramount to the health of any democracy. It is essential that the judiciary operates independently, free from any political influence, to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens. The recent arrest of legal professionals defending opposition members may signal an overreach of the police force and underscores the need for judicial processes to remain impartial and unimpeded. As Dominica undertakes its long-standing electoral reform process, it is crucial that the voices of all citizens are heard and considered. Inclusive dialogue and respect for civil liberties are foundational to achieving reforms that reflect the will and interests of the populace. International Attention and Support The IDU stands in solidarity with the people of Dominica and joins the Caribbean Democrat Union (CDU) in urging the international community to remain attentive to these developments. We call upon all stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society, and international partners, to work collaboratively to address these concerns, ensuring that Dominica continues to uphold the democratic values and principles that are the bedrock of a free and just society.

Strategic participation boosts visibility, forges key partnerships, and reinforces Dominica’s standing as the Caribbean’s top dive destination Dominica's participation in the 2025 Beneath the Sea Expo was a success, yielding significant benefits for the island's tourism sector. The Discover Dominica Authority, in collaboration with Nature Island Dive and Coulibri Ridge, effectively showcased Dominica as the Caribbean's premier dive destination. "Dominica's participation in Beneath the Sea provided numerous benefits, from increased visibility to strategic partnerships, further solidifying our position as a premier dive destination" said Marva Williams, CEO and Director of Tourism. "We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the authentic charm of the Nature Island." Key Highlights:  Enhanced Visibility: The expo highlighted Dominica's pristine waters, unique underwater experiences, and the world's only sperm whale reserve, attracting a new wave of scuba divers and ocean enthusiasts.  Networking Opportunities: Valuable connections were established with industry leaders and potential travelers, fostering partnerships that will drive tourism growth.  Market Positioning: Dominica reinforced its status as a leading dive destination, emphasizing its authentic and unspoiled natural beauty. The contingent, led by Williams and Andia Ravariere, Destination Marketing Manager, included Simon Walsh, Owner and Operator of Nature Island Dive, and Maleeva Blanchard, General Manager of Coulibri Ridge. This strategic participation allowed for direct engagement with members of the international scuba diving community and travel industry professionals. The Discover Dominica Authority remains committed to supporting niche market tourism and looks forward to welcoming even more dive travelers to the Nature Island in 2025 and beyond.

The grounds of Anchorage Hotel came alive with color, rhythm, and cultural pride on Saturday evening as Afro Caribbean 2025, the second production of Blossom Dominica, unfolded under the theme “Our Story, Our Heritage, Our Identity.” This unforgettable event paid homage to Kalinago resilience, Caribbean fashion evolution, and Dominican heritage through storytelling, fashion, and artistic expression. The evening commenced with a warm meet-and-greet reception, set to the sounds of soft jazz and hosted against the scenic backdrop. A special welcome was extended to Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, and Mr. Burton, along with an esteemed list of cultural icons, including Ms. Dominica Tanisha Balsol, celebrated singer Michelle Henderson, Pastor Leroy Hill, and fashion designer Lorraine Delsol. A highlight of the night was the debut of “The 21st Century Kalinago Heroes” runway segment, which powerfully portrayed five Kalinago changemakers and cultural figures through symbolic fashion statements. From Divine Lilliana, the modern Kalinago CEO, to Luminous Lantana, representing the first female Kalinago President, the segment honored trailblazers including cricketers, entrepreneurs, and cultural custodians who continue to shape Dominica’s future. The program continued with a stirring poem by Princia the Poet, a tribute to legendary designer Mary Elizabeth Green, and a showcase of traditional Dominican attire including the Jipé and Wob Dwiyet. These were creatively modeled by cultural ambassadors and emerging talents alike, from Little Miss Sassy to Esther Fadelle Morris, Miss CARIFTA 1973. Segment 4 brought to life Contemporary Creole Fashion, blending tradition with modern flair. Designers reimagined madras fabrics and national symbols into bold, runway-ready looks that reflected Afro-Caribbean pride and creativity. The final fashion walks celebrated Dominica’s flag and its symbolic colors—red, green, black, yellow, and white—each interpreted through dynamic couture. Afro Caribbean 2025 culminated in a jazz-infused finale—Sunset Creole Chic with a Splash of African Energy—where models returned to the stage for a final round of electrifying fashion and dance. In an energetic close, the audience joined the models and artists for a celebratory dance, turning the night into a true festival of unity, culture, and expression. Blossom Dominica’s Founder and CEO, Kimara Matthew, received a resounding ovation as she took the stage, marking another successful production aimed at empowering cultural pride, representation, and storytelling through fashion. Special thanks to our sponsors and partners, including The Progressive Mind, Opti Shop, Digicel, Discover Dominica Authority, Fresh Market, Ministries of Government, and all supporting creatives and volunteers who brought this vision to life.

Nine athletes have been selected to represent Dominica at the 2025 CARIFTA Games, which will be held in Trinidad and Tobago from April 19–21. The athletes who have qualified include standout performers Kerelle Ettienne, Addison James, Jaden Joseph, Jeriah Lewis and Godisha Joseph. Dominica will also be represented by a 4x400 meter mixed relay team of Akiesha Luke, Sean Vidal, Chris Toussaint, and DaliaGuiste. The delegation also includes Coaches Godwin Dorsette and Nabi Wallace, with Felicien Antoine serving as the Safeguarding Officer. Carlea Darroux will act as the Chaperone, while Phillip White will take on the role of Manager and Congress Delegate. Brendan Williams is the President and Congress Delegate, and Walson Pacquette will fulfill the duties of Carifta Games Referee. The delegation is set to leave the island on Thursday, April 17. Coach Godwin Dorsette expressed strong confidence in the team’s potential heading into the regional championships. “I’m very confident in what we have in Dominica,” Dorsette said. “Dominica has what it takes to come out on top in various areas. We have Addison James, who is currently in Jamaica and throwing well—he has a good chance. In the jumping events, our athletes are performing strongly, and once we get on the track, I believe we can also secure some medals there.” Head Coach Nabi Wallace, who will also travel with the team, shared similar sentiments, noting that preparations have been intense but productive. “Preparation-wise, I think the trainings went very well, and the Athletic Association did its very best to ensure the athletes had maximum competition opportunities,” Wallace stated. “We also had some overseas trips to Guadeloupe and Martinique, and I believe all of that contributed greatly to their preparation.” Now in its 52nd edition, the CARIFTA Games is the premier track and field competition for junior athletes in the Caribbean. It is held annually and was founded by the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA). The 2025 Games will take place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad, bringing together the region’s best under-17 and under-20 athletes. An official launching ceremony of the team will be held at 3:30 on Monday 14th April 2025 at the Dominica Olympic Committee Conference Room.

The RayAsta Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Level 2 Stroke Caregiver Training Course—a pilot program building on the success of its foundational caregiver training. This marks a historic step forward in building a more skilled and compassionate healthcare workforce in Dominica. This pilot course builds on the success of two completed Level 1 cohorts and officially began on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at the Dominica State College over a ten-week period. The Level 2 program brings together graduates from both the first and second Level 1 cohorts and is designed to deepen their skills in stroke rehabilitation, leadership, and complex caregiving techniques. It will focus on enhanced caregiving techniques, stroke rehabilitation strategies, leadership, supervision, and advanced patient support. Participants will benefit from interactive modules delivered by a team of dedicated professionals in healthcare, psychology, and community leadership. The curriculum is designed not only to deepen knowledge but to empower participants to take on leadership roles and become advocates for stroke awareness, education, and recovery. The training also emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and professional development, preparing caregivers to take on supervisory roles in both home and clinical settings. “This group represents a new caliber of care professionals. Experienced, motivated individuals who are choosing to lead the way in stroke recovery support,” said Cecelia St. Hilaire, Executive Director of the RayAsta Foundation. “We are proud to support their continued growth as they elevate the standard of care in their communities.” The pilot course will also introduce real-world caregiving scenarios, research presentations, and mentorship, ensuring that graduates are prepared to confidently support stroke patients with dignity, empathy, and clinical insight. This initiative reflects the Foundation’s continued mission to strengthen the quality of care and improve health outcomes for stroke patients. Through a combination of education, advocacy, and community engagement, the RayAsta Foundation remains a leader in shaping a more inclusive and prepared caregiving network in Dominica and beyond. Graduates of this pilot program will be recognized during a special completion ceremony in June 2025, where their achievements will be celebrated alongside partners, educators, and members of the RayAsta community.

The Dominica State College (DSC) on Tuesday April 7th, 2025 paid tribute to the late Luther Kosowan, a dedicated craftsman, mentor, and invaluable contributor to the institution, with the installation of a commemorative plaque in the Carpentry Workshop—a space he helped build and enhance. The plaque, unveiled at a special ceremony attended by DSC faculty, students, and Mr. Kosowan’s wife, Ruth Kosowan and supportive friends, serves as a permanent symbol of his dedication, skill, and generosity. A Legacy of Service and Craftsmanship Mr. Kosowan’s journey with DSC began in 2013, and for over a decade, he played a pivotal role in advancing the college’s Carpentry and Maintenance programs. His expertise as a carpenter, welder, and machine repair specialist made him a cornerstone of the institution, where he selflessly contributed his time, skills, and resources to benefit both students and faculty. Among his many contributions, Mr. Kosowan was instrumental in facilitating DSC’s partnership with the Emanuel Foundation in Canada and Thomas Foundation in the United Kingdom, securing essential tools to enhance carpentry training. His generosity extended beyond carpentry—he built classroom whiteboards, repaired essential equipment, and tirelessly worked to improve DSC’s learning environment. Honoring His Contributions Speaking at the ceremony, Kimberly Benjamin, Marketing & Communications Officer at DSC, highlighted the lasting impact of Mr. Kosowan’s work: “Mr. Kosowan may no longer be with us physically, but his contributions will remain woven into the very fabric of our institution. This plaque is a testament to his unwavering commitment, ensuring that future generations of students and faculty will always remember and appreciate his service.” The installation of this plaque is a heartfelt tribute to a man whose dedication and craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on DSC. His memory will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of skilled professionals.

DOWASCO is pleased to announce that the majority of materials (pipes, fittings, and appurtenances) for the highly anticipated Water Sector Strategic Development Project (WSSDP) have been received in Dominica, and preparation work is now underway to enhance the water supply systems in several communities across Dominica. The WSSDP is being executed by DOWASCO with financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) Programme, with funding pledged by the UK Government following the devastation of Hurricane Maria. In addition to improving water infrastructure, the WSSDP will provide employment opportunities for several residents across the communities where it will be implemented. DOWASCO is in the process of engaging Community Liaison Officers (CLOs), site technicians, and temporary workers (skilled and unskilled) to commence work on the ground. Small, local contractors will also be invited to bid for various components of the project. This project will have a significant, positive impact on the water infrastructure in Castle Bruce, Grand Fond, Riviere Cyrique, Morne Jaune, West Coast (Salisbury, Coulibistrie, Grand Savanne), and Calibishie as critical upgrades will ensure a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable water supply to these communities. As part of the preparatory phase of the project, initial groundwork has already begun in Grand Fond, where rehabilitation of the access road to the intake is ongoing. This marks the first step in what promises to be a transformative initiative for these communities. Further updates will be provided as the project progresses.

The Dominica Grammar School, represented by Rene Talbert and Tzaddi Trocard, will attempt to dethrone the Orion Academy, represented by Madleah Fontaine and Jazz Maxwell, in the final debate of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition 2025 edition. The Dominica Grammar School has excelled in this debate series, securing defeats over the St. Mary’s Academy, the St. Martin Secondary School and the Pierre Charles Secondary School in the three previous rounds of competition, marching their way to the finals for their first time. The Orion Academy is the reigning debate champion from the 2024 installment of the competition and as such entered this year’s series in Round 2, so far beating the Wesley High School and the Portsmouth Secondary School to land themselves once more in the finals. These two schools, both highly competitive, will argue a very topical issue at the finals. The topic up for debate will be “Introducing stricter penalties for causing death by dangerous driving would effectively reduce vehicular fatalities in Dominica.” The Dominica Grammar School team is coached by Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon, while Mrs. Abigail Woodman and Miss Adeola Xavier coach the Orion Academy team. It is anticipated to be a very interesting final debate, with the grand prize of an all expenses paid trip for four to St. Lucia up for grabs. The final debate is open to the general public and will be held at 11am on Wednesday 16th April at the Truth and Grace Fellowship Global. Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd, Insurance Company of the West Indies, the National Cooperative Credit Union, Lindo Mart, Dominica News Online, Freeman Consulting LLC, Fort Young Hotel and DBS Radio are the major sponsors of the finals of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition.   DGS Orion

The Awards Ceremony for the 2 nd Annual Regional Schools Investment Competition was held on 28th March 2025 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Attending the event in person was a large contingent of students and teachers from the Adelphi Secondary School, St Vincent, home of the Regional Champion, Adelphi Enterprise. The ceremony was also streamed virtually, enabling the Country winners in the other Eastern Caribbean Currency Union member countries to participate and be recognized, and to enable the public across the region to view the event. The winners, recognized during the ceremony, were: 1. Adelphi Enterprise, Adelphi Secondary School – Regional Champion and Country Winner for St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2. CHSS Emerging Investors, Choiseul Secondary School – Regional Runner Up, Country winner for Saint Lucia, and winner of the award for the most clearly presented strategic approach in the video submission. 3. Market Masters, Arthur Waldron Seventh Day Adventist Academy – Country winner for Dominica, and winner of the prize for the most creative video submission. 4. Green Magnates Enterprises, Irene B. Williams Secondary School – Country winner for Antigua and Barbuda 5. Boys on the Hill Investment, Grenada Boys Secondary School – Country winner for Grenada 6. Innovative Traders, Saddlers Secondary School – Country winner for St. Kitts and NevisThe Country winners received branded backpacks with gifts for each participating student, gift bags for teachers, certificates for both students and teachers and a plaque for the winning school. The winners of the video submissions awards also received cash prizes. The Regional Champion, Adelphi Enterprise, also received a cash prize for students in the form of a bank account to help them to begin their saving and investing journey, a fee waiver voucher for the teachers’ first investment transaction, a cash prize of EC$5,000 for the school and the Sir K Dwight Venner Regional Champion Trophy. The guest speaker at the ceremony was Mr Anson Latchman, a progressive young Vincentian professional, who encouraged the students to start their investment journey early. His inspiring address emphasized the benefits of compounding, diversification, and wealth creation. The competition was designed as a dynamic learning experience for high school and first-year college students, introducing them to investing while providing the opportunity to experience securities market activity firsthand. The initiative, a collaboration between the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE), the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission (ECSRC) and the six licensed broker- dealers (First Citizens Investment Services Ltd, Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ltd, Bank of Saint Lucia Ltd, Grenada Co-operative Bank Ltd, St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Ltd and Bank of Nevis Ltd.), aims to stimulate an interest in investing among young persons and to foster their development into future market participants. - End -

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services  has partnered with DOMLEC  and DirectRelief  to install a 98KW photovoltaic system  at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital . This initiative aims to reduce the hospital’s operational costs  by subsidizing its electrical power consumption with renewable solar energy . The project, which aligns with Dominica’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency , is expected to make a significant impact  on the hospital’s long-term energy expenses. By utilizing solar power, the hospital will benefit from a more reliable and cost-effective energy source , ensuring continued efficiency in its daily operations. Officials from the Ministry of Health have welcomed this initiative, highlighting its environmental and financial benefits . A spokesperson noted that investing in renewable energy for critical facilities like hospitals is a step toward a more resilient and sustainable future . The installation of the 98KW photovoltaic system  represents a milestone in Dominica’s healthcare infrastructure , reinforcing the government’s efforts to enhance energy security and efficiency  in key sectors. Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking project as Dominica continues to lead the way in renewable energy integration .

The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers(D.A.P.E) proudly hosted its inaugural Engineering Award of Honour ceremony on Saturday, March 29, 2025, celebrating outstanding achievements and contributions in the engineering sector. The event, held at Villa Copthall, culminated Engineers’ Week 2025 and brought together industry leaders, distinguished guests, and honorees for an evening of inspiration, recognition, and celebration. The honorees were Lucien Blackmoore, Rawlins Bruney and Vivian Trotter. In her address, President of the D.A.P.E, Nicole Laville, stated that the Engineering Award of Honour aims to honor distinction, innovation, and dedication in field. “As we gather here, we are reminded that engineers are not just problem-solvers; we are visionaries. We don’t simply build structures; we build the future. We don’t just burst through mountains; we harness the very forces that drive progress. And tonight, as we recognize our colleagues for their dedication to excellence, let us take a moment to reflect on the power of innovation.” This year’s event highlighted the impact of individuals whose efforts have set new standards and created positive change. “Engineers have the ability to turn the smallest idea or the tiniest innovation into something truly powerful and transformative….Tonight, we celebrate those whose work has embodied this very principle. The engineers we honor today have demonstrated the ability to transform their skills, knowledge, and vision into tangible outcomes that have benefited not just the engineering community, but Dominica. Their dedication and tireless work have shaped the infrastructure, the technologies, and the innovations that define our local profession and our nation today,” Laville added. Blackmoore, in his remarks on behalf of the awardees, said engineering is about more than just building infrastructure. “I think the first building block: engineering is about building individuals. And so, I really want to reach out to the rest of my colleagues to continue to do what you doing. And tonight, what really gave me the honour is really trying to be an inspiration to the young ones…to realize it’s not only about the money, but most importantly is how effectively you can impact the better quality of life for people.” The event afforded guests, those with years of experience as well as those new to the field, the opportunity to network, reflect on the achievements of the past year, and look ahead at the future of engineering in Dominica. D.A.P.E extends sincere congratulations to the awardees and expresses gratitude to the sponsors who made Engineers’ Week successful.

Saint Kitts and Nevis, March 26, 2025- Recognizing the region’s vulnerability to multiple hazards and climate-induced displacement, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Government of St Kitts and Nevis, convened a two-day Regional Workshop titled Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward. This event marked the culmination of activities by IOM under the 15-month Human Security Joint Programme which was aimed at “Promoting a human security approach to disaster displacement, environmental migration and disaster risk reduction in the Caribbean Region”. The event underscored the importance of mainstreaming human mobility considerations into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and plans, including CDEMA’s Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) Strategy and Country work Programme of Caribbean Countries. Patrice Quesada, IOM Coordinator for the Caribbean, in his remarks indicated that “We are really trying to bring a bit of light on one dimension that tends to be overlooked, which is the mobility dimension of hazard impact including climate related events especially here in the Caribbean from a human security standpoint”. Honourable Dr Joyelle Clarke, St Kitts and Nevis Minister for Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, in her opening remarks noted that “For small island developing states, especially Caribbean SIDS, responsiveness cannot be a monolith; our climate action efforts must mainstream human security and must relentlessly advocate for financing mechanisms and lending instruments that make space and sufficiently integrate human mobility into their frameworks”. She went on to say that “solutions must be SIDS specific and coastal Specific”. In support of the French Government Funded project that collaborated in hosting this event in St Kitts and Nevis, the workshop included informative discussions on leveraging innovative financial instruments for the implementation of climate mobility initiatives. An interactive training of trainers session was also conducted providing participants with hands-on approach with the process of applying the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool that was developed to assess how national frameworks have thus far considered and make provisions to address human mobility issues. National stakeholders highlighted some of the best practices affirming the critical role of a multistakeholder approach. Mr. Simon Alleyne, Programme Officer with the Barbados Department of Emergency Management, in his comments reiterated that “a multistakeholder approach that includes Government Ministries, Departments, NGOs and Civil Society Organizations is necessary to deal with the issues of migration and to ensure that the needs of vulnerable people are addressed”. Kana Kudo representing the Donor, the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, says that “the Human Security Unit and the Trust Fund are proud to support a programme that aims to strengthen preparedness and responses through a more integrated, people-centered, and preventive approach...this programme is defining new strategies and partnerships to better address multifaceted insecurities, reduce vulnerability, and build resilience”. The implementation of the Joint Programme has made available to Caribbean Countries several resources to bolster their efforts towards managing human mobility in the context of disasters. This includes: · The Environmental Migration Disaster Displacement and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool to support policy harmonization · Training of the Trainers Manual and User Guide on the application of the Assessment Tool · 12 National Country Assessment Reports developed from the application of the Assessment Tool · A Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol for the protection of people crossing borders due to disasters · Best Practices to support mass population movement · OECS Ministerial Declaration on Migration Environment and Climate Change · Local Resilience Strategies from the application of the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities: Displacement Addendum developed by UNDRR. · Training of Trainers Manual on the application of the Resilience Scorecard Coordinator for the Human Security Joint Programme, Viola Pascal, in summing up the achievements of this intervention indicated that “the project has succeeded in raising awareness in the Caribbean region of human mobility issues due to disasters and addressing them through the human security approach. National Disaster Offices have expressed their commitment to include measures to manage human mobility in their existing and upcoming disaster management policies and plans”.