Regional journalists from select Caribbean countries entering the 37th Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) Media Awards now can vie for a newly launched SDG Champion Award, recognizing outstanding contributions in print, radio, television, and digital media that spotlight the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This new category, introduced through a partnership between the United Nations Barbados and Eastern Caribbean Office and the CBU, aims to celebrate journalistic excellence that drives sustainable development and inspires meaningful action. Eligible countries include Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Speaking during a recent media webinar, CBU President Anthony Greene emphasized the media’s pivotal role in advancing the SDGs, both professionally and personally. “We help those who can influence the achievement of the SDGs to understand why they should lend their resources and efforts to this cause,” Greene noted. “But as media, we are not just instruments to be used by others. We also need to appreciate that the SDGs are for us as well as residents of developing countries and territories, and as the media and communications sector.” Kenroy Roach, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, expressed hope that the award would deepen collaboration between the UN and regional media: “We know we work well together on many fronts, but hopefully this can be another pillar in our very strong collaboration.” Roach also reminded participants that the SDGs, adopted by 192 Member States in 2015, represent a global commitment: “It is important that we recognize that the SDGs are not only a UN agenda, but also the countries’ agenda. It is the leaders of the world who came together and recognized the need for urgent action for people and planet.” The recent webinar also provided valuable technical insights into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their significance for the region, and effective approaches to SDG storytelling. Jabari Fraser, Public Information Officer at ECLAC Caribbean, in his session “Why the SDGs Matter,” encouraged journalists to guide their editors in distinguishing between what is important and what is urgent. He emphasized the value of considering the broader context and conducting thorough research to produce stories with lasting impact. Meanwhile, Martina Donlon, Chief of Climate and Sustainable Development at the UN Department of Global Communications, presented on “What’s a Great Story about the SDGs?” She highlighted the importance of focusing on science and solutions, and inspiring action by addressing the three W’s: What, Why Care, and What Now? Sonia Gill, CBU Secretary General, offered journalists an overview of the new SDG Champion Award categories, criteria, and rules. She noted that eligible entries should connect the Global Goals to real people’s lives, communicate complex issues—such as climate change or inequality—in clear, accessible language, and foster an environment where the SDGs are actively championed. She further emphasized that content should be data-driven, solution- oriented, and, where possible, inspire action. Entries for the 37th Annual CBU Media Awards will open in late November 2025 and close at midnight (ECT) on February 28, 2026. Nominees will be announced in June 2026, with the awards presentation scheduled for August 2026. For further information, journalists are invited to view the recent Media Webinar via this link, and for competition rules and entry details they can visit the CBU website at http://www.caribroadcastunion.org / or email cbumediaawards@caribroadcastunion.org when the Call for Entries is issued next month.

By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator, on behalf of Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)   When Hurricane Melissa ripped across the Caribbean just a few days ago, it damaged roads and power lines and disrupted the way thousands of people earn a living. In Jamaica, entire sections of St. Elizabeth, the country’s “breadbasket”, were flooded, threatening food supplies far beyond the parish itself. At one point, more than three-quarters of Jamaica’s electricity customers lost power as the JPS network took a major hit. Heavy rains and flooding also occurred in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, killing dozens of people, washing out homes, and leaving families without basic resources and services. These are the kinds of climate shocks our region now faces almost every year. But the real story unfolds after the storm has passed: farmers can’t replant because their pumps, seedlings and investments are gone; vendors can’t sell because the market building or electricity is down; fishers can’t go out to sea because their boats and docks are destroyed; tourism and service workers lose shifts as hotels, ports or tour sites repair storm damages. One household’s “hidden” loss quickly ripples across entire communities. A farmer’s lost harvest means less produce in the market. A fisher’s broken boat means fewer fish on dinner tables. A vendor’s closed stall means fewer goods available to households. In other words, the livelihood loss of one household quickly becomes the hardship of many. Those are real economic losses. And they fall hardest on the people working informally, the very people our food systems and local markets depend on. National governments are responding. They clear roads, restore power, reopen schools, and, in Jamaica’s case, the Prime Minister outlined immediate relief and early recovery priorities in his October 27 national address about Hurricane Melissa. Shelters were opened across affected communities; evacuation orders were enforced for flood-prone areas; and security forces were deployed to maintain order. The government also activated a price-control order to prevent gouging on essential goods, while the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries prepared a recommended price list to stabilize markets.  J$400 million was allocated for emergency drain-cleaning and constituency mitigation, with additional support to farmers and fishers to help restart production. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the JDF were tasked with coordinating national relief, while the Ministry of Health launched mosquito-control operations to reduce post-storm disease risk. And, importantly, Jamaica’s disaster-risk financing instruments — the National Natural Disaster Risk Fund, the Contingency Fund, and other insurance/credit instruments  — were activated to ensure quick access to response funds. But even strong national action can’t quickly cover thousands of small, scattered losses, the vehicles that washed away, the market stall roofs that collapsed, the small poultry sheds that drowned, or the weeks of income lost as a result. That gap is exactly what the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)’s 2025 research on Climate and Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance (CDRFI) found across five Caribbean countries: 79% of organizations serving vulnerable people had no disaster budget, and 80% weren’t even collecting regular member fees — so when a Melissa-level storm hits, there’s no local pot or social safety net to turn to. That is why CPDC argues for meso-level CDRFI. It is a model that uses the institutions people already trust (credit unions, cooperatives, community-based organizations) to deliver money faster and more fairly after a shock. Instead of waiting months for a national programme to reach a disaster-affected area, local community groups could: get a quick payout because the storm met a trigger ( parametric insurance ), top it up for people who lost more than the average ( indemnity insurance ), and use its own small reserve to help members restock, repair, or even relocate to keep earning ( community savings fund ). This is not a replacement for government aid and resources. We absolutely need big public systems for roads, electricity, ports, hospitals and schools. But Hurricane Melissa showed, again, that people also need a community-level financial shield to protect their income, food supply and dignity while national systems get back up. Last year it was Beryl. This year it’s Melissa. Next year, it will be another name. The climate threat over the Caribbean is now permanent. The question for the region is: will we keep rebuilding from zero every season, or will we build financial systems that let farmers, fishers, vendors, tourism and other informal workers bounce back faster? Every time families are forced to abandon their livelihoods, the Caribbean loses not only income but also knowledge, traditions, and community strength. Protecting livelihoods isn’t just about money; it’s about protecting who we are as a people. CPDC has started that conversation with evidence from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada and Jamaica. Caribbean media, CSOs, governments and financial cooperatives are invited to read the research and join the regional discussion on practical, people-centred disaster finance via the CPDC Risk Resilience Hub .  Our region is now at the point where we need to turn disaster lessons, from Hurricane Melissa and every storm before it, into long-term protection. PHOTO CAPTIONS: 1.  Community members sift through storm-tossed debris in Black River, Jamaica, days after Hurricane Melissa swept the coast. Photo Credit - Matias Delacroix 2. Drone image captures residents navigating down a flood-scarred street in Black River, Jamaica, as recovery begins following Hurricane Melissa. Photo Credit - Maria Alejandra Cardona

The much anticipated second staging of the Grenada Caribbean Music Festival (GCMF) is set for Saturday, November 8, 2025, at he Lawn, at The Lawn at Port Louis, St. Georges. Last year, the summer debut of the festival received high marks from patrons, gaining regional and international attention. Presented by ORA Caribbean, the festival promises a stellar lineup of artistes and an elevated experience for patrons. The festival stage will feature a blend of some of Grenada’s top talents with some of the Caribbean’s most compelling contemporary voices. This year's GCMF will be an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture and sound, anchored by a powerful reggae showing from Jamaica, headlined by Grammy-nominated artiste Protoje, who will be bringing his globally acclaimed catalogue to the main stage. Fellow Jamaican artistes Mortimer and Sevana, will bring their soulful reggae artistry to the lineup. Grenada’s musical excellence will once again take centre stage, with home-grown stars Sakinah, Khole Baldeo, V’ghn, Boyzie, Dash, Terra D Governor, Dred Lion, Wuss Ways and Tallpree set to deliver energetic performances. Organisers promise an expanded experience for the second edition, with enhanced stage production, curated food and drink options, and upgraded patron amenities. The festival is expected to welcome more than 3,500 attendees and will once again activate its vendor village and hospitality offerings, spotlighting local flavours and small businesses. “Last year laid the foundation and this year is about elevation,” shared ORA Caribbean, organisers of the festival. “Grenada is rich with talent and creativity, and the Grenada Caribbean Music Festival is our way of celebrating that spirit while creating a home for Caribbean artistry to flourish. We look forward to welcoming music lovers from across the region and the world to Grenada, not only to experience the festival but to also enjoy the beauty and vibrant culture of the Spice Island.” The festival gates open at 4:00 PM and the experience continues until 12:30 AM, offering a full evening of live music, culture, and community in one of Grenada’s most scenic waterfront venues.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional partnership and destination excellence with the successful completion of a high-impact sales mission to Trinidad and Tobago. The initiative underscored Grenada’s dedication to deepening trade relations, inspiring travelers and showcasing the island’s signature blend of authenticity, luxury and innovation. The four day engagement unfolded across both Port of Spain and San Fernando, featuring a vibrant mix of business, culture, and connection. It included two well-attended travel agent dinners, first at the elegant Hyatt Regency Port of Spain, followed by the charming Royal Hotel in San Fernando, where the Grenadian delegates met with top travel agents to share updates on the destination’s expanding tourism offerings. Representatives from some of Grenada’s premier accommodations and tour operators came together to showcase the island’s diversity of accommodation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Each partner brought to life the depth and distinctiveness of the Grenadian experience. Adding to the energy, representatives from the aviation and event sectors infused the mission with their own unique contributions. They highlighted the seamless regional connectivity through Caribbean Airlines and the creativity of Spicemas Corporation, whose cultural showcases with performances by “Muddy”, the 2025 Power Soca Monarch Winner and rising soca artist “Dred Lion”, brought an authentic taste of Grenada’s spirit, rhythm to Trinidad. Building on this momentum, the mission also featured an intimate luxury business luncheon that brought together Grenadian tourism stakeholders and leading Trinidadian entrepreneurs. The event, hosted in collaboration with Silversands Grenada, fostered meaningful discussions around luxury travel, investment opportunities, and sustainable development within the Caribbean tourism landscape. To connect directly with consumers, the Grenada Tourism Authority brought the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Spice Isle to life with an immersive pop-up experience at C3 Mall in San Fernando. The vibrant activation transformed the space into a slice of Grenada, inviting shoppers and passersby to discover the island’s lush natural beauty, rich culture, and signature warmth. The pop-up generated remarkable buzz and inspired countless Trinidadians to plan their own journey to experience ‘Pure Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean.’ Throughout the mission, Grenada’s story reached even wider audiences through a robust slate of media appearances and interviews with top outlets including The Trinidad Guardian, 96.7 Red FM, Hot 93 and Caribbean Passport, each amplifying Grenada’s message of connection, creativity, and growth. “As our largest regional market, Trinidad and Tobago remains a vital partner for us. The enthusiasm we’ve experienced on this mission is a strong signal that travelers are ready to discover, and rediscover the Spice Isle.” said Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer “This mission reaffirmed Grenada’s position as a leading destination for authentic Caribbean experiences.” From the new, world-class Six Senses La Sagesse to the eco-chic charm of True Blue Bay Resort, and the pulsating creativity of Spicemas, Grenada is redefining what it means to experience the Caribbean. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community, the GTA continues to position the destination as both a beacon of hospitality and a leader in regional tourism collaboration.

By Natasha Greaves, Head of Office, IOM Dominica As Dominica celebrates 47 years of Independence under the inspiring theme “47 Years of Progress and Purpose,” the International Organization for Migration (IOM) extends warm congratulations to the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica. This year’s theme invites reflection on the nation ’s remarkable journey since independence one defined by courage, unity, and the determina:on to build a resilient future. It celebrates the achievements of the past 47 years while challenging all citizens to con:nue advancing with purpose ensuring that progress benefits every Dominican, at home and abroad. Though not Dominican by birth, I have had the privilege of witnessing first-hand the strength and spirit of this na:on. The people of Dominica embody resilience; rebuilding after storms, finding opportunity in challenge, and nurturing a culture that is vibrant, creative, and proud. At the International Organization for Migration, we believe that purpose-driven progress means ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable. In Dominica, IOM continues to work alongside government, communities, and partners to strengthen resilience and support national priorities. Our work includes disaster preparedness and response, livelihood recovery, climate resilience initiatives, and support for migrants and vulnerable communities. Migration, when managed with dignity and foresight, can be a catalyst for national development— empowering families, connecting communities, and contributing to social and economic progress. IOM’s mission in Dominica aligns closely with the country’s vision for a future where no one is left behind. As we celebrate this 47th Independence Anniversary, may the theme remind us all that progress without purpose is incomplete. The spirit of unity, courage, and compassion that has carried Dominica through the past decades will continue to light the path ahead. On behalf of IOM Dominica, I extend sincere congratulations to the Government and people of Dominica. May this Independence be a celebration of not just how far the nation has come — but how much further it will go, guided by purpose, creativity, and the collective strength of its people. Happy Independence, Dominica! 🇩🇲

The Dominica State College (DSC) has announced the opening of applications for the January 2026 semester , beginning November 10th, 2025 . Applications will be available online through the DSC website and official social media platforms. The College encourages all interested persons—whether recent secondary school graduates, continuing students, or adult learners—to review programme options and admission requirements ahead of the opening date. According to the College, this upcoming admission period aligns with its ongoing efforts to provide wider access to quality tertiary education and technical training in Dominica. The January intake offers opportunities across the College’s various faculties and programmes, supporting students’ academic and career goals. For further information or assistance with the application process, individuals may contact the College’s admissions office at 255-8101/6/31  or visit www.dsc.edu.dm . The Dominica State College remains committed to fostering excellence, innovation, and opportunity through education.

Eighteen (18) individuals and one (1) group will receive Meritorious Service Awards during the ceremony to observe Dominica’s 47th anniversary of independence on November 3, 2025. Late Prime Ministers Roosevelt Bernard “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles will be posthumously awarded the nation’s highest honour, the Dominica Award of Honour, in recognition of their sterling contributions to national development. Chief Executive Officer of the International Airport Development Company Mr. Samuel Johnson, Religious Leader, Rev. J Evans Dodds and medical doctor, Dr. Basil Fadipe will receive Dominica’s second highest award, the Sisserou Award of Honour. Ms. Hannah Clarendon (Agriculture and Trade), Mr. Lennox Abraham (Child Welfare and Sports), Mr. Titus Francis (Community Development and Local Governance), Dr. Victor Emanuel (Medicine), Mr. Boniface Lloyd (Religion and Agriculture), Mrs. Shirley Augustine (Nursing and Health Management), Mrs. Anita Bully (Culture and Creative Industries), Mr. Hague Thomas (Environmental Health and Community Development), Mr. Prosper Paris (Culture and Community Development) and the 3rd Mahaut Scout Troop (Youth Development and Volunteerism) will receive the Meritorious Service Award. Mr. Elroy Pioche (Agriculture and Community Service), Mr. Ibrahim Brohim (Business), Ms. Caesarina Ferrol (Nursing) and Mr. Irving Williams (Public Service) will be awarded the Services Medal of Honour. The awards will be presented on Monday, November 3, 2025 at the Independence Day Observance Ceremony at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium from 5:00p.m.

Dominica’s Bouyon Star Celebrates Milestone with Over 1 Million YouTube Views for Title Track   Roseau, October 27, 2025— Bouyon artist Trilla-G has officially released his debut album, Take Me as I Am: The Album , marking a defining moment in his journey from a rising Dominican talent to one of the Caribbean’s most promising new stars. The 13-track project, released on Wednesday 22 October, 2025, showcases Trilla-G’s artistry, depth, and bold artistic interpretation of the Bouyon sound. The album follows the massive success of the title track “Take Me as I Am (Remix)” , which has surpassed 1 million views on YouTube since its release in September 2024. The song, infused with Creole and raw emotion, resonated deeply with fans across the Region and set the stage for what Trilla calls an “intentional” project which showcases layers of himself and his artistry while breaking barriers for the genre. Take Me as I Am: The Album explores themes of love, growth, resilience, and identity through Trilla’s signature mix of storytelling, rhythm, and authenticity. Recorded at Th3rdHouse Studios in the U.S. Virgin Islands , the project features a stellar line-up of Regional collaborators including Grenadian Cultural Ambassador V’ghn, Chart-topping Jamaican Dancehall/Pop act Stalk Ashley, Th3rd of the USVI- creator of the RC&B: Rhythm, Caribbean and Blues sound, two-time Caribbean Music Award Bouyon Artist of the Year Ridge of Dominica and his fellow countryman Shelly ( lead singer for popular Bouyon Band, Signal Band) — each adding their own unique touch to the soundscape. Production credits span across the Caribbean and beyond, from Dominica’s Mask Man, DernzMusik, and Fr3EzE to A Plus from St. Thomas , Hxnter from Canada , and Xavvo, GNS Beats and TitoWeGlobal from St. Maarten . Known for his electrifying stage presence, Trilla G has already graced some of the Caribbean’s biggest music festivals, including Miami Carnival, the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica, St. Maarten Carnival, USVI Carnival, Antigua Carnival, and Trinidad Carnival . His performances have cemented his reputation as a dynamic and genre-defining entertainer who continues to push Bouyon’s boundaries while staying grounded in his Dominican roots. Already, he has influenced listeners around the Caribbean to sing his catchy Kwéyòl phrases. Now, with this new album, he presents a fresh body of work with mostly unreleased tracks for old and new fans alike. “Since I started doing Bouyon music, it’s always been my dream to create a full body of work — but I wanted to wait for the right time,” says Trilla-G. “After traveling and performing across the Caribbean, I realized the time was now. Take Me as I Am is about showing the world who I am on a deeper level and to break barriers through Bouyon music- a force to be reckoned with.” The album’s fusion of rhythmic energy and emotional honesty reflects Trilla-G’s growth — both personally and professionally — since making the bold decision to pursue music full-time. “It’s been liberating,” he says. “It’s like a job, but a job I love.  Knowing you’re the one who holds your destiny- there’s a level of pride in that, that I love." With Take Me as I Am , Trilla-G is elevating more than himself — he’s elevating a movement. His debut stands as a bold contribution to the ongoing evolution of Bouyon, introducing its vibrant Dominican pulse to an even wider audience.  He performed an impressive solo set at the 25 th edition of the World Creole  Music Festival in Dominica this past weekend and looks forward to touching other major stages around the globe while promoting his latest project.

Aquanauts Grenada has been named overall winner of the 2025 Caribbean Coral Reef Tourism Stewardship Award by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA), in partnership with CAST (Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism) and The Nature Conservancy, recognizing the dive operator’s leadership in reef conservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism. Through initiatives such as Lionfish Bites & Beats and Jam & Jewelry Nights, which generate funding for the Aqua Rangers Youth Development Scholarship, Aquanauts Grenada has turned the invasive lionfish challenge into opportunities for environmental education, reef protection, and community empowerment. Thousands of lionfish have been removed from Grenadian reefs, while local youth receive hands-on training in marine stewardship, creating a model that is easily reproduced within Small Island Developing States (SIDS). “We are deeply honored to receive the CHTA Coral Reef Tourism Stewardship Award,” said Tiffany Geer, Co-Founder of Aquanauts Grenada. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and partners who work tirelessly to protect Grenada’s reefs and support thriving coastal communities.” Central to Aquanauts Grenada’s mission is the Roots-to-Reef tourism experience, which allows visitors to explore the full coastal ecosystem — from the rainforests to mangroves and seagrass beds to coral reefs — while learning how simple conservation measures create sustainable tourism and can make a real difference. Guests participate in conservation activities, engage with local communities, and experience firsthand the interconnectedness of land, sea, and people. “We invite travelers to visit Grenada and discover why sustainable tourism matters. Explore the symbiotic relationships found within the various ecosystems on land and underwater, meet local students passionate about environmental conservation, and experience how Grenada’s community is coming together for the benefit of a sustainable future,” added Geer. On November 16, Aquanauts Grenada will be attending CHTA’s CHIEF Conference in Barbados to accept their Coral Reef Tourism Stewardship Award.

In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa’s direct impact on Jamaica, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is coordinating an early response to support national efforts and provide relief and protection to vulnerable communities which could be impacted. Hurricane Melissa is forecasted to pass directly over Jamaica, bringing at least Category 4 winds and 15-30 inches of rainfall for two to three days. This scenario means increasing risk of flooding, landslides, and widespread damage. The Government of Jamaica has requested support from the United Nations and other international partners to bolster its emergency response. In response, IOM is preparing a shipment of relief items from the Caribbean Logistics Hub in Barbados in collaboration with World Food Programme (WFP). The shipment including items such as solar lamps hygiene kits, bedding (blankets and pillows), air mattresses, indoor tents, shelter repair kits, ropes, tarpaulins, and generators are being prioritized based on the Government of Jamaica’s forecasted needs. The items are expected to arrive in Jamaica by Thursday. These supplies have been made available through the generous support of European Union Humanitarian Aid (DG-ECHO), Goods 360, Amazon, and IOM’s MIRAC programme. Their contributions are positioning the Organization to act swiftly and effectively in the face of this emergency. In addition to the shipment, IOM will also draw on existing relationships with AirBNB for accommodation, DHL for transportation and logistics training, and Microsoft for damage data analysis, and welcomes additional partnerships and donations to support people displaced by Hurricane Melissa. IOM staff from the Caribbean and Regional Offices are being mobilized to join the Jamaica team to support the response on the ground, including through the CDEMA lead RNAT. Personnel will work in coordination with national authorities, ensuring that assistance is delivered in line with needs, and guided by Jamaica’s emergency management protocols. Natasha Greaves coordinated IOM’s response to Hurricane Beryl in Jamaica in 2024 under a project funded by the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Now acting as interim Head-of-Office for IOM Jamaica, Greaves emphasized the importance of coordinated action: “Hurricane Melissa poses a serious threat to Jamaica. We anticipate that many people will be displaced from their homes, and in urgent need of emergency shelter and relief. IOM is working closely with the Government and our partners to ensure that essential humanitarian staff and supplies arrive quickly, to address the most pressing needs. Our emergency response team is already engaged within the coordinated national system, focusing on our core areas of shelter, non-food items, and critical data and information needs.” She noted that IOM is experienced in emergency situations and has established relationships that will benefit the people of Jamaica at this time. “The experience and partnerships that our emergency response team developed during last year’s Hurricane Beryl response—and in previous emergencies across the Caribbean—have made us a reliable partner for coordinated, robust action. IOM’s existing and trusted regional and global partnerships, including with European Union Humanitarian Aid and organizations like the Global Empowerment Mission and CORE, are enabling us to move rapidly and will help us reach those who need help most, in the soonest possible time.” IOM’s response will be managed through Jamaica’s national systems, with the organization providing technical and logistical support as requested by the Government of Jamaica. Coordination is already ongoing with the Humanitarian Assistance Committee (HAC), the UN Resident Coordinator and other UN agencies to ensure a unified and effective approach. The team at IOM encourages the public to evacuate if you have been advised to do so, and to follow official sources for updates and safety guidance, as you prepare for life-threatening flooding, landslides, hurricane force wind, potential power outages, and limited access to essential services during the storm’s passage. For coordination and support to IOM’s Hurricane Melissa response in Jamaica, please contact Natasha Greaves ngreaves@iom.int

The Ministry of Environment, through the Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC), in partnership with UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, this week launched the “Keep Dominica Clean and Green – Sort It at the Source” initiative at Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl. This new recycling campaign makes it easier to separate waste right where it is created. Clearly marked garbage bins and signage have been placed in the Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl, with yellow bins designated for plastics items such as bottles, cups and containers and gray bins for general waste such as food scraps and wrappers. This initiative is intended to be replicated at future national events. By promoting responsible waste practices, recycling, and community engagement, the "Keep Dominica Clean and Green – Sort It At The Source"; campaign aims to foster environmental stewardship and resilience. “Waste doesn’t disappear; it is a resource that can be used over and over again if we sort at source,” reminded Mr. Florian Mitchel, General Manager at the Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation. “Every item that you correctly sort is a win for Dominica. Waste management is a cycle that requires the participation of every stakeholder within the value chain of which you are the crucial first step. Through this initiative, DSWMC with support from its partners showcased and demonstrated that waste can be sorted at all public events and large gatherings. We hope that this will spark our collective consciousness and approach towards sorting at source. Let’s ensure the only thing we leave behind are great memories and a legacy of preserving this gem beyond compare. We can make a difference by sorting our waste at the source.” Hon. Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment fully endorses the programme, stating, “This initiative is more than a campaign — it is a movement towards a cleaner, greener Dominica. As we embrace our Creole season and national pride, let us also embrace responsibility for our environment. Sorting waste at the source is a simple act, but one that carries powerful impact. Together, with the support of UNDP and every citizen, we can make Dominica the model of sustainability in the Caribbean.” UNDP proudly supports this initiative as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental protection, climate action, and partnership. “At UNDP, we believe that real change begins with community action. This initiative is a testament to the power of partnership and the commitment of Dominicans to protect the environment. By working together, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all,” said Ms. Limya Eltayeb, UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. This signals yet another avenue of collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, which has delivered several impactful programmes with UNDP support, particularly in the Kalinago Territory. Through this waste management campaign, the shared mission continues to empower local communities to protect their environment.

Grenada has once again captured the attention of the global travel community with several of the island’s premier resorts earning prestigious international recognition from Condé Nast Traveler and the MICHELIN Guide, underscoring the destination’s growing reputation for excellence, authenticity and luxury hospitality. In the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, Silversands Beach House was ranked the #1 Caribbean Hotel in the UK Readers’ Choice Awards, while Grenada was listed among the Top 10 Best Islands in the Caribbean & Atlantic. Complementing these accolades, Grenada has also joined the elite ranks of destinations featured in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide, with three of its properties recognized for exceptional hospitality. Calabash Grenada received Two MICHELIN Keys, the highest distinction among the Caribbean recipients, while Spice Island Beach Resort and Six Senses La Sagesse each received One MICHELIN Key. The MICHELIN Key programme; newly introduced for hotels, honours properties that deliver extraordinary guest experiences, setting new standards for excellence in service, design and authenticity. “These global distinctions are a testament to Grenada’s growing influence as a luxury destination defined by authenticity, exceptional hospitality and a genuine sense of place,” said Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “To have multiple properties recognized by Condé Nast Traveler and MICHELIN in the same year reflects the extraordinary calibre of our island’s tourism product and the unwavering dedication of our hoteliers and hospitality professionals.” Dennis de Groot General Manager of Silversands Beach House, recipient of Condé Nast Traveler’s #1 Caribbean Hotel title, added, “This recognition inspires all of us. It reflects the hard work and passion of our team and the enduring appeal of Grenada as a destination that offers sophistication without pretense and where every experience is infused with genuine warmth.” Adele Garbutt-Decaul, Owner and Director of Calabash Grenada, shared, “We are incredibly proud to have received Two MICHELIN Keys and to stand alongside some of the world’s most exceptional hotels. This recognition celebrates our team’s passion for excellence and also shines a global spotlight on Grenada as a destination that seamlessly blends luxury, warmth and authenticity.” Representing one of Grenada’s most beloved properties, Janelle Hopkin, President and Managing Director of Spice Island Beach Resort added, “We are honoured to be included by the MICHELIN Guide among the Caribbean’s finest resorts. It reflects the dedication and passion of the Spice team to deliver memorable experiences for our guests, our unwavering attention to detail, personalized service, and authentic Grenadian hospitality. We are grateful to have what we love to do recognized at such a high level, and we will continue to build on our mission to be one of the definitive luxury retreats in the Caribbean.” From Grenada’s newest resort, George Vlachopoulos, General Manager of Six Senses La Sagesse, stated, “Six Senses is proud to be part of Grenada’s inspiring hospitality story. These awards affirm our shared commitment alongside our fellow properties, to sustainability, excellence and creating transformative experiences that capture the essence of the island.” As Grenada continues to earn accolades on the world stage, the Grenada Tourism Authority reaffirms its commitment to supporting its industry partners and strengthening the island’s global visibility. Together, these achievements reinforce Grenada’s place among the Caribbean’s most exceptional destinations, where refined luxury meets heartfelt hospitality.