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Uruguay hosts the meeting to address the challenges facing the livestock sector in Latin America and the Caribbean. At the conference, FAO called for a balanced approach between economic development, agricultural sustainability, and environmental preservation within the sector.   November 5, 2024, Punta del Este, Uruguay – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Better Production through the sustainable transformation of livestock production, an activity on which 64.5% of the rural population in Latin America and the Caribbean economically depend.   The First Regional Conference for the Sustainable Transformation of Livestock, held in Uruguay on November 5-6, aims to engage regional stakeholders in promoting more innovative, resilient, sustainable, and efficient production systems that contribute to food and nutritional security while reducing environmental impacts across various livestock production chains. This activity is especially promising as the region accounts for 28% of global animal production and produces 23% of the world’s beef and 21% of poultry, despite comprising only 8.5% of the global population.   The event, which responds to the agreements made at the World Conference on Sustainable Livestock Transformation held at FAO headquarters in Rome last year, was inaugurated by the President of Uruguay, Luis Lacalle Pou, and FAO’s Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin.   Representatives from 33 Latin American and Caribbean countries gathered to address the challenges and opportunities for sustainable livestock in a global context of growing demand for meat products, which is expected to rise by 20% by 2050, alongside the need to mitigate the sector’s environmental impact.   During the event’s opening, President Lacalle emphasized the importance of family farming in livestock production, stating, “Small subsistence farmers are sometimes overlooked, which is why it’s crucial that the economy not only focuses on growth and profit but also on including small family farmers. We need to tie environmental issues to the economy.”   FAO Director-General QU Dongyu stated, “I wish to reaffirm FAO’s commitment to continue working together to promote sustainable development in the livestock sector across Latin America and the Caribbean. Livestock is essential for economic stability, food security, and cultural heritage. Livestock production must continue providing safe, nutritious food while minimizing environmental impacts, strengthening resilience in all aspects of our agri-food systems.”   Mario Lubetkin highlighted the importance of animal-source foods for food security and human health by providing essential nutrients such as proteins, iron, and vitamins necessary for development and nutrition in a region where food insecurity affects 28% of the population.   “Progress in sustainable livestock in our region strengthens the relationship between economic development, agricultural sustainability, and environmental preservation,” Lubetkin stated. He also urged countries to foster an efficient, inclusive, and resilient livestock model tailored to local circumstances.   Regional and global milestone   The First Regional Conference on Sustainable Livestock in Latin America and the Caribbean represents a regional and global milestone in commitment to transforming the livestock sector. At the event, FAO reaffirmed its dedication to providing technical support and promoting effective policies for sustainable livestock in the region, in line with its role as the Technical Secretariat of the Commission on Livestock for Latin America and the Caribbean (CODEGALAC).   The inaugural event was also attended by Uruguay’s Minister of Environment, Robert Bouvier; Minister of Economy and Finance, Azucena Arbeleche; and Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries, Fernando Mattos; along with Thanawat Tiensin, Director of FAO’s Animal Production and Health Division.   The event included high-level representatives from nine countries in the region, among them Sergio Iraeta, Secretary of Agriculture of Argentina; Carlos Fávaro, Minister of Agriculture of Brazil; Esteban Valenzuela, Minister of Agriculture of Chile; Fernando Vargas Pérez, Deputy Minister of Costa Rica; Maynor Estrada and Johana Jacomé, Undersecretary of Livestock Production of Ecuador; the Minister of Agriculture of Guatemala; Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture of Guyana; Julio Berdegué, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development of Mexico; Carlos Giménez, Minister of Agriculture of Paraguay; Marcelo González, Deputy Minister of Livestock of Paraguay; and Lucrecia Rodríguez Peñalba, Executive Secretary of the Central American Agricultural Council (CAC).

Hundreds of farmer families in Barbados, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines could benefit from strengthening their capacities to manage irrigation systems and equipment effectively. Bridgetown, Barbados, 18 October 2024 – During the dedicated presentation of the Caribbean regional proposal at the Hand-in-Hand Initiative (HiH) Investment Forum, held from 15 to 17 October in Rome, Italy, FAO Director-General Mr. QU Dongyu stressed the importance of collaboration in tackling the critical challenges facing the Caribbean. He highlighted the need to strengthen efforts in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, water scarcity, poverty, and the region’s lack of resilience, while underscoring the essential role that irrigation plays in fostering sustainability in the Caribbean. Following the Director-General's remarks, Mr. Shaun Baugh, CARICOM's Program Manager for Agricultural Development, delivered a compelling joint investment proposal from the FAO and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) focused on Barbados, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The proposal is centered on leveraging digitalization in irrigation systems to drive progress. Mr. Baugh highlighted the population figures of Barbados (over 208,000), Jamaica (2.8 million), and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (110,000), drawing attention to their heavy dependence on imported food. Barbados imports 80% of its food, Jamaica 45%, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 68%. He also noted that Barbados' food import bill amounts to USD 408.5 million, while Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' stands at USD 217 million. These challenges, he argued, offer significant opportunities to boost local food production, enhance the agricultural sector, and attract investment to the region. The investment opportunities presented by Mr. Baugh focused on enhancing irrigation infrastructure by utilizing surface water and promoting, sustainable solutions such as such as digitalized drip irrigation systems, digitalized drip irrigation systems, and Ultrasonic Volumetric Meters. Additionally, the proposal emphasizes strengthening farmers capacities to manage irrigation systems and equipment effectively. The total investment, valued at USD 21 million, is designed to benefit 635 farmer families and 4,000 individuals across Barbados, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Following the presentation, a panel discussion was held, moderated by Dr. Renata Clarke, FAO’s Sub-regional Coordinator. The panel featured Hon. Indar Weir, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security in Barbados; Hon. Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining in Jamaica; Mr. Pablo Bartol, Social and Human Development Manager at CAF - Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean; and Mr. Edward Bresnyan Jr., Senior Agriculture Economist at the World Bank. During the discussion, Hon. Indar Weir emphasized the critical role of water in agriculture, stating that, “Agriculture will not work without water. Given the severity of these events early in the season, we must recognize the need to accelerate to implement agricultural production systems that are less water intensive, so that we can better manage during dry seasons. At the same time, we must seize the opportunity to invest in water storage solutions, especially considering the floods that occur during the events. This presents one the greatest opportunities for investment in irrigation”. Hon. Floyd Green noted that Jamaica experienced a USD 370 million loss to its agri-food system due to Hurricane Beryl, which struck early in the hurricane season. He added, “90 percent of our farmers are small scale, operating on less than one acre of land, making access to affordable water crucial.  The Caribbean faces significant challenges in securing investments for agriculture, so we are particularly grateful to FAO for this investment opportunity”. During the panel discussion, Mr. Edward Bresnyan Jr. emphasized the various efforts to support farming in the CARICOM region, such as, conducting analytical work focused on improving resilience, enhancing nutrition security and improving competitiveness. All of this is particularly relevant in the context of irrigation. Some examples, drip irrigation, covered agriculture using greenhouses, and initiatives in water basins to protect water sources. Fellow panelist, Pablo Bartol stressed the importance of economic stability for agricultural investment, stating, “The stabilization of local currencies is a requirement for investments. Stable water provision is also essential for investment in the agriculture system. Without a stable currency, investment will not flow into countries”. During the closing remarks, Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of CARICOM, expressed her appreciation for the discussions, stating, “FAO and the Caribbean community share a long-standing partnership that supports the bilateral relationship FAO maintains with each of our member states. CARICOM recognizes the Hand-in-Hand Initiative as a valuable tool for removing barriers to agricultural development. We appreciate the support of the governments, development partners, and the private sector in promoting more targeted agricultural investments and implementing policies that foster resilient, sustainable and productive agrifood systems”. About the Hand-in-Hand (HiH) Initiative The HiH Initiative is a global flagship initiative launched by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu in 2020. To date, 72 countries have joined the initiative which supports the implementation of ambitious, country-led programs to accelerate the transformation of agri-food systems by eradicating poverty (SDG 1), ending hunger and malnutrition (SDG 2), and reducing inequalities (SDG 10).  Through this initiative, FAO prioritizes countries and territories where poverty and hunger are highest, where national governments request capacity strengthening, or where operational challenges are greatest due to natural or man-made crises. The areas of intervention include developing value chains for priority commodities, creating agro-industries and efficient water management systems, introducing digital services and precision agriculture, reducing food loss and waste, and addressing climate challenges and weather-related risks. The 2024 Investment Forum is the cornerstone of the initiative's partnership-building efforts, providing a platform for national authorities to present opportunities to investors, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and donors, focusing on the potential for investment in national agriculture and opportunities in agri-food value chains. For participating countries, long-term public sector investment financing is critical to the success of the HiH Initiative. For multilateral development banks, blended finance structures and risk mitigation mechanisms can support private sector investors in the poorest and most fragile countries, helping to enhance their role in fostering sustainable development.

RCI trained 130 individuals in the water-energy-food nexus and installed 44 solar-powered irrigation and hydroponics systems across the Caribbean 8 October 2024 – Panama City, Panama - Within the framework of the Resilient Caribbean Initiative (RCI), funded by the Government of Mexico and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Subregional Office for the Caribbean in collaboration with relevant government ministries, the CARICOM Secretariat, and Mexican South-South cooperation partners, the " Reflection Workshop on Achievements and Lessons Learned " was held in Panama City on September 19-20, 2024.     This event brought together representatives from various Caribbean countries, project beneficiaries, and key stakeholders to assess the progress and challenges in building resilience to climate change and other crises in the region. It also allowed to reflect on priorities for the future.   The workshop opened with remarks from Ms. Karen de Brouwer, Director of Financing for Development and Emerging Technologies at Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE), and Mr. Tony Rojas, General Director for the Execution of Projects Abroad of the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID). Ambassador David Prendergast from the CARICOM Secretariat and Dr. Renata Clarke, FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Caribbean, were also present at the inauguration.   Dr. Clarke emphasized the significance of the event stating, “ This event is of special importance as it brings our current project to a close. It provides us with a valuable opportunity to socialize our experiences, process the lessons we've learned, and forge a clear vision for future initiatives. The knowledge we gain here today will undoubtedly serve as the foundation for future projects that build on the successes of this one.”   The Initiative has trained 130 individuals in the water-energy-food nexus and installed 44 solar-powered irrigation and hydroponics systems. It improved kitchens at 26 schools and established 32 school gardens, providing training for teachers and students. Support was given to 28 MSMEs, two government facilities, and seven schools to expand aquaculture/aquaponics facilities. In Haiti, over 70 farmers were trained, and four satellite nurseries were equipped. Additionally, the Initiative mobilized over USD 50 million in climate finance from donors like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). During the "Voices from the Field" panel, Jamaican farmer Latoya Rattray-Ellis expressed gratitude for receiving a 1,000-gallon water storage tank and a solar-powered hydroponic system that can produce 400 seedlings. Sheir Williams from Antigua and Barbuda shared how a 5,000-gallon water storage cistern and solar-powered drip irrigation system significantly boosted her farm's production. In Belize, Ms. Seleni Grajales, Principal of Santa Martha Public School, emphasized how the school feeding program has become a vital source of nutrition for students, improving their focus and energy for learning, while also nurturing their overall well-being.   The "National Perspectives" panel emphasized how the Initiative has strengthened climate resilience in agriculture, providing training, renewable energy solutions, and boosting school feeding and aquaculture programs. Mr. Osmond Harewood of the Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation highlighted the Initiative’s role in building resilience in Barbados' agricultural sector, stressing the importance of planning for timely equipment delivery. During group discussions, participants noted achievements like increased use of solar technology and rainwater harvesting, which stabilized costs and boosted production during dry seasons. Challenges included limited production capacity, water shortages, crop theft, and project delays. Participants highlighted the importance of promoting local food production, adjusting crop schedules to climate conditions, and creativity in school menu design as key lessons learned. On the second day the focus shifted to the future of the Resilient Caribbean Initiative. There was a strong consensus that while a solid foundation exists, the commitment of all stakeholders is crucial for sustained progress. Dr. Ulises Dehesa from the Mexican Institute of Water Technology emphasized the need to integrate water and energy solutions, highlighting the importance of community collaboration to ensure long-term sustainability and ownership. In her keynote presentation, Ms. Catalina Torres outlined the success of Mexico’s National System for the Integral Development of the Family in implementing hot meal programs in schools, improving students' access to nutritious foods. On his end, Dr. Bernardo Murillo,from the Center for Biological Research of the Northwest, showcased how integrated aquaculture systems could bolster food security and climate resilience in arid Caribbean regions. He emphasized that adopting these models could significantly enhance agricultural productivity and climate change mitigation efforts.   A high-level panel on regional cooperation for climate change adaptation featured representatives from AMEXCID, CARICOM, FAO, and Mexico's diplomatic corps. The panel highlighted the importance of regional partnerships in enhancing agri-food system resilience. Ambassador Víctor Hugo Morales and Mr. Tony Rojas underscored Mexico's commitment to cooperation in agriculture and food systems in the Caribbean. The door for a second phase of the Initiative was left open given the positive results achieved. These will be shared with the incoming administration, which was sworn in on October 1 2024.   Group discussions identified priority areas for future efforts, emphasizing the integration of renewable technologies, climate-smart practices, and the need for youth and gender inclusion to ensure a sustainable vision for the region's agricultural future.   In closing the event, after giving thanks to the financial and technical support from Mexico through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, AMEXCID, and South-South and Triangular cooperation partners, Jacinto Buenfil, FAO Project Coordinator of the Initiative stated that “the foundation exists to continue building on current achievements.” In agreement, participants expressed their request to the government of Mexico to continue supporting the Caribbean with a second phase of the Resilient Caribbean Initiative.

The Men’s Senior National Football Team had a terrible day at the office as they suffered a major setback in their bid to remain in League B of the Concacaf Nation’s League following their heavy defeat to Group D Leaders the Dominican Republic Saturday night. Dominica lost the first leg against the Dominican Republic 2-nil back in the September round of matches in Antigua, and with the added reinforcements for the November Window Coach Ellington Sabin was hoping for a change in fortunes as the two teams met at the Stadium Cibao FC in the Dominican Republic Saturday. It was the home team taking the early advantage as Dorny Romero put the Dominican Republic in the lead in the 13th minute of play. Despite being a goal down the National Team continued to weather the wave of attacks from the home team and eventually got themselves back into the game thanks to a moment of brilliance from Travist Joseph. The DFA premier league’s leading scorer netted a stunner as he cut in from the left flank and blasted one into the top corner beating the diving goal keeper Xavier Valdez in the 30th minute of play. The celebrations were short lived as the home team went back in front 7 minutes later as Heinz Morschel put the Dominican Republic up 2-1 heading into the half time break. The Dominican Republic then got 4 more unanswered goals in the 2nd half as they took the match 6-1. The 5-goal defeat has dealt the Men’s National Football Team a serious blow in their bid to remain in League B. Dominica currently sits in 3rd place in Group D, heading into their final match with Antigua. Dominica has a 3-point advantage over Antigua and must avoid a defeat in their last match if they are to remain in League B and avoid relegation to League C. Dominica plays Antigua at 4pm on Tuesday November 19th in the Dominican Republic. Credit G Richards

Head coach of the Men’s Senior National Football Team Ellington Sabin says Dominica will be gunning for some revenge when they meet Group D leaders the Dominican Republic as their campaign in the Concacaf Nation’s League resumes on Saturday. Dominica currently sits in 3rd place in Group D on 3 points and needs to avoid a 4th place finish to remain in League B for the next season. The National team lost 2-nil to the Dominican Republic in the first leg in Antigua in September. Coach Sabin says he has done his homework and brought in some reinforcements and is confident that the team will have better results. He also says the game is being dedicated to National Midfielder Chad Bertrand who has announced that he will retire at the end of the tournament. Credit G Richards

Dominica’s Financial Services Unit (FSU) has won the prestigious Wealth and Finance International Award as the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of the Year 2024 – Caribbean. The award highlights the FSU's dedication to regulatory excellence and its commitment to strengthening Dominica's financial services sector and promoting integrity and compliance with international standards. The Wealth and Finance International Award recognizes institutions demonstrating outstanding performance in financial regulation, as well as skill, innovation and success in delivering trusted and reliable financial services to clients. Dominica's FSU was chosen for its robust regulatory frameworks, ongoing monitoring and effective enforcement policies, which enhance the credibility of Dominica’s financial services sector both regionally and globally. As Dominica’s sole regulatory authority for financial services, the FSU oversees a range of institutions including credit unions, insurance companies, offshore banks, Forex businesses and other financial entities and service providers. Director of the FSU, Claudius Lestrade says the award recognizes the FSU’s success in enhancing transparency, combating financial crimes and implementing policies that promote a stable financial environment. “We strive to foster an internationally competitive financial services industry and aim to enhance Dominica’s financial services sector while protecting consumer interests. Integrity and transparency guide our operations and we are dedicated to serving clients with honesty as a fundamental principle,” he commented. “This recognition highlights our team’s commitment and the government’s support in maintaining a resilient, transparent financial sector. The FSU remains dedicated to safeguarding stakeholders’ interests and enhancing Dominica’s standing as a secure and compliant financial services hub.” The Financial Services Unit, established by an Act of Parliament in 2008, operates under the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security. -Ends-

By Concerned Parents of Dominica Grammar School Students Hon. Octavia Alfred Minister of Education Ministry of Education, HR Planning, Vocational Training & National Excellence Government Headquarters Roseau, Dominica Dear Minister Alfred, We, the concerned parents of students attending the Dominica Grammar School, write to express our deep dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs concerning our children’s education. As a community, we are increasingly frustrated by the ongoing disruptions to our children’s learning and the apparent neglect of the conditions at the school. Let us begin by recalling the situation that unfolded in June 2024, when our children and their teachers were rushed to complete exams ahead of the summer break, all to accommodate construction work at the school. Report cards were distributed, and we, the parents, were informed that online schooling might be necessary when school reopened in September. However, when our children returned to school on September 16, they were met with a chaotic environment. Classes were held face-to-face, but the school conditions were far from suitable for effective learning. The situation only worsened when, on October 28, our children were told to begin online classes. They were then promised a return to in-person learning on November 11, only to be dismissed at 11:00 AM that same day and told they would continue with online classes for the rest of the week. This constant disruption is completely unacceptable. It is the responsibility of the government and the Ministry of Education to ensure that proper facilities are in place to support the education of our children. We find it hard to believe that the Ministry was unaware of the state of the school before the September reopening. This continued neglect is a reflection of poor leadership and inadequate planning, and it directly impacts the quality of education our children receive. We demand that immediate action be taken to rectify this situation. Our children and their teachers deserve far better than what they have been subjected to. The current conditions are not just inconvenient; they are harmful. Many students are struggling due to a lack of proper devices and internet access, and we fear that some children are falling behind as a result. These disruptions are damaging not only to their academic performance but also to their mental and emotional well-being. It is alarming that, in 2024, in the absence of any disaster or pandemic, our children are sitting at home, unable to attend school in a proper, conducive learning environment. We understand that online learning is necessary in some cases, but it should never be a long-term solution, especially when the infrastructure to support it is inadequate. Furthermore, the health and safety of our students and staff should be a top priority. We are aware that both students and teachers have been experiencing health issues related to the current condition of the school building. This is a situation that cannot be allowed to continue. To the principal, Ms. Dalton, we urge you to prioritize the well-being of your students and staff. The handling of this matter has been far from satisfactory, and we expect a clear and actionable plan to address the issues at hand. As parents, we are fully committed to supporting the school, but we need leadership that is proactive, not reactive. We suggest that you convene the PTA and work together to find a solution, as the current silence on this matter is deafening. Finally, we wish to make it clear that we will not accept further delays. If the school remains online until January 2025, we expect the school’s infrastructure to be fully upgraded and prepared for a safe and productive in-person return at the start of the new term. The Ministry of Education must ensure that our children are provided with a proper learning environment, and we demand that this be addressed immediately. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. A meeting with the parents of the Dominica Grammar School should be convened as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing swift and meaningful action taken to resolve the ongoing issues at the Dominica Grammar School. Sincerely, Concerned Parents of Dominica Grammar School Students VNG does not express any of the views expressed in this letter, and will NOT be held liable for any of the statements made herein.

Dominica State College is pleased to announce that we will accept applications for the January 2025 Semester from November 15, 2024, and will close on December 19, 2024. Prospective students interested in pursuing higher education at the college are encouraged to submit their applications within this window. To apply, applicants can visit the college's official website or the admissions office for detailed instructions and to access the online application portal. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to start or continue their academic journey at Dominica’s premier higher education institution. For further information, please contact the admissions office at 440-4941 ext 8106 or visit the college’s website at dsc.edu.dm Don't miss out on your chance to be part of the January 2025 cohort at Dominica State College!

Defender Jeanmal Prosper and midfielder Fitz Jolly are among the additions to the Men’s Senior National Football Team as Dominica gets set for their final two matches in the Concacaf Nations League this weekend in the Dominican Republic. Prosper is a center back and plays for Slough Town FC in the England. Fitz Jolly is a defensive midfielder based in the United States. Dominica will play the Group D leaders the Dominican Republic on Saturday November 16th and then play bottom placed Antigua on Tuesday November 19th. Dominica currently sits in 3rd place in Group D on 3 points and needs to avoid a 4th place finish to remain in League B for the next season. The team will be captained by Glenson Prince, the rest of the team is Julian Wade, Jeanmal Prosper, Donte Newton, Jerome Burkard, Travist Joseph, Cobin Paul, Fitz Jolly, Eustace Marshall, Jervanie Xavier, Kassim Peltier, Marcus Bredas, Jahiem Maxime, Briel Thomas, Chad Bertrand, Keeyan Thomas, Malachi Bonney, Javid George, Troy Jules, Audel Laville, Dhamario Challenger, Savio Anselm, and Donte Warrington. The national team is being coached by Ellington Sabin. Delroy Watt will serve as assistant coach, Melvin Angol as goal keeper coach, Clevon Vidal team medic, Reginald Darroux is the equipment manager, Dr Olagunju is the team doctor, Heinrich Anselm the team manager, and Garvin Richards the team’s media officer. Credit G Richards

The Dominica Hospitals Authority is pleased to announce activities to highlight World Diabetes Day on Thursday, November 14, 2024, under the theme: “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps.” Activities will include blood sugar testing for staff and the public in the foyer of the Dominica China Friendship Hospital, starting at 8:30 a.m. Educational and counseling opportunities will also be available. The public is invited to participate in this testing opportunity by presenting at the testing site at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital on an empty stomach (no food after midnight). Everyone is also encouraged to wear baby blue to raise awareness of the significance of diabetes in our country.

The Dominica Red Cross continues to work in communities around the island to build resilience, by promoting disaster risk reduction and early warning initiatives with the implementation of Community Disaster Response Teams (CDRT). Ten residents from the community of Castle Bruce were recently trained in several areas to include: Climate Change, Elements of a resilient community, Damage & Needs Assessments (DANA), Temporary Shelter construction, Psychosocial Support, Light Search and Rescue, Firefighting, First Aid and CPR among other topics. At the end of the training sessions participants were provided with tools to assist in the mitigation and response activities in the community. Participants were also engaged in developing their own Community Hazard Map through the mapping of the hazards by conducting a walk through in the community and identifying the areas that are prone to hazards and identified evacuation routes in the event the need arises. A simulation exercise was also conducted at the end of the training to test the response mechanisms of the community. At the Closing Ceremony held on November 7, 2024, the Parliamentary Representative for the constituency Hon. Octavia Alfred, congratulated the participants on their successful completion of the program and thanked the Dominica Red Cross for this significant contribution to the community in disaster management. Tools and equipment were also presented to the Village Council in support of the community’s response activities.

By Shermain Bique-Charles   World Travel In 360 is setting its sights on Dominica for an ambitious new project aimed at enhancing the island's visibility and accessibility through cutting-edge technology.   The company is currently engaged in discussions with representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, laying the groundwork for comprehensive mapping of the entire island.   This initiative is poised to transform the way both locals and visitors experience the stunning landscapes and attractions Dominica has to offer.   Preliminary discussions began on a promising note this past Monday, with Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Lisa Valmond, expressing her excitement about the potential benefits that this project could bring to the Nature Isle.   Valmond highlighted how such a development could not only showcase Dominica's unique natural beauty but also serve as a vital tool for promoting tourism.   If the government grants approval for this innovative endeavor, Dominica is destined to become the second Caribbean Island to gain access to the full suite of features offered by Google Street View, following in the footsteps of Antigua and Barbuda, which was the first to achieve this milestone.   To further advance these discussions, a team from World Travel In 360 is planning an official visit to the island.   This trip will facilitate in-person conversations with various stakeholders, including local businesses, tourism operators, and government representatives.   They are eager to collaboratively assess the needs and possibilities for implementing this project, which is anticipated to open new avenues for exploring and experiencing Dominica like never before.   Federico Debetto, the CEO of World Travel In 360, provided insightful details about the mapping process and the innovative techniques that will be employed. His vision for Dominica includes not only the famous sites but also the hidden gems that highlight the island's rich culture and stunning natural environment.   By using advanced mapping technologies, Debetto assures that the project will capture the essence of the island and provide an immersive experience for users around the world.   “Dominica has close to 1000km of road traversing the amazing wild nature scenery of the island. Our expert team will capture all that beauty in amazing 11K resolution 360-degree imagery. This will amount to almost 500 000 individual panoramas published on Google maps for everyone in the world to explore Dominica,” he said   Echoing the CEO's sentiments, COO Dimitar Kunev also conveyed his enthusiasm for the potential impact of this project on the island’s tourism economy.   He said this initiative has the potential to significantly elevate Dominica’s profile on the global stage.   “It allows travelers to virtually explore the island before they arrive, enhancing their overall travel experience and encouraging more visitors to discover everything our beautiful island has to offer.”   Kunev said he is also captivated by the stunning beauty of Dominica, and according to him, there is no better way to highlight it than by enabling people to explore every street, trail, and landmark interactively from anywhere in the world.   “Through a custom Global Virtual Tour showcasing Dominica’s natural sites and landmarks in remarkable quality, we’re providing the tourism sector with a powerful tool to spark interest and increase visitor rates. Additionally, our project will support local businesses in establishing and enhancing their presence on Google Maps, maximizing their visibility and attracting more customers,” he said   In addition, Kunev said Dominica's breathtaking natural beauty deserves to be shared with the world, and what better way to do that than by letting people explore its vibrant streets, lush trails, and iconic landmarks from anywhere on the globe?   “Through our custom Global Virtual Tour, we’re not only spotlighting Dominica’s awe-inspiring sites in stunning quality but also creating a unique experience that will inspire travelers to visit. This project will also empower local businesses by amplifying their presence on Google Maps, helping them reach new audiences and grow in visibility like never before” he added   Kunev's comments resonate with the growing trend of digital engagement in the travel industry, where potential tourists seek interactive ways to envision their journeys.   The implications of this mapping project extend beyond mere exposure; it aims to foster a deeper connection between potential visitors and the local culture.   Through Google Street View, users will be able to navigate Dominica's lush landscapes, vibrant communities, and iconic landmarks, all from the comfort of their own homes using their digital devices, —an experience that aims to evoke an authentic sense of place.   Meanwhile, the completion of the Google Street View project in Antigua and Barbuda has already demonstrated the powerful interest in virtual exploration.   Since its launch, images of the islands have been viewed an impressive 2.43 million times on Google Maps.   This staggering view count highlights the significant demand for digital access to Caribbean destinations, reinforcing the notion that creative technological projects like this can greatly enhance tourism.   The collaboration between World Travel In 360 and the Antiguan government was facilitated by connections made through Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr. Dario Item.   His role has been instrumental in bridging partnerships conducive to tourism growth and technology integration within the region.   Looking ahead, World Travel In 360 plans map other Caribbean islands, including Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia.