Dominican farmer Ephraim Elijah Roberts has been named the recipient of the OECS Young Farmer Award, recognising his commitment to modern, diversified agriculture and his efforts to inspire a new generation of young people to enter the sector. He accepted his award during the OECS Youth and Women in Agriculture Symposium in Grenada on Thursday, September 3. Roberts, 29 of Castle Bruce, has developed a diversified agricultural enterprise built around the principle that “diversification creates resilience.” He raises goats, sheep, cattle, ducks and guinea pigs and cultivates root crops, fruit crops and fast-turnaround cash crops. He has also incorporated bee production into his enterprise, supporting pollination and crop productivity while producing honey as an additional high-value product. His involvement in agriculture began at an early age and continued throughout his school years. He served as President of his primary school’s 4-H Club and was an active member of his community’s Scout Troop. At secondary school, his passion and aptitude for agriculture earned him an award for outstanding achievement in Agricultural Science. He later pursued an Associate’s Degree in Agricultural Science and has remained actively involved in the sector as a member of the National Association of Youth in Agriculture (NAYA), which promotes greater youth participation and leadership in agriculture. As an educator, Roberts is working to change the way young people view agriculture, introducing students to climate-smart and modern farming practices and encouraging them to see the sector as a viable, technology-driven, sustainable and profitable career option. His vision is “to inspire more young people to choose agriculture, strengthen food security, create economic opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable development of communities and countries.” The Government of Dominica congratulates Ephraim Elijah Roberts on this outstanding achievement and commends him for his dedication to agriculture, youth development and national food security.

Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, gave an extensive interview to the Cuba Analysis Podcast, hosted by researchers Helen Yaffe and Nina Blodau, in which he reviewed the current state of relations between Havana and Washington and addressed the ongoing impact of the U.S. blockade, the tightening of measures since 2019 and 2026, the island’s economic and social situation, the possibility of military aggression, and the future prospects for bilateral relations.Rodríguez began by speaking from a personal perspective. He recalled that he has lived his entire life under U.S. sanctions and that several generations of Cubans have now been in this situation. Regarding the current situation, he was unequivocal: “The suffering experienced by our people—by every Cuban—the hardships and anguish, are extreme.” In his view, the measures constitute a mechanism of collective punishment, and their impact has worsened significantly since 2019—and especially with the executive orders adopted in 2026.In response to the argument that Cuba’s economic difficulties stem primarily from its political system or internal mistakes, Rodríguez replied unequivocally: “They’re lying; they’re lying systematically.” He maintained that Washington is trying to blame the Cuban government for consequences that, according to him, are deliberately caused by sanctions and by trade, financial, and energy restrictions.One of the facts he highlighted was the existence of more than 7,000 containers of food, medicine, and medical devices stranded in various ports, a situation he attributed to threats and pressure against shipping companies that trade with Cuba. He also pointed to the rise in infant mortality as one of the most serious effects, which he directly linked to the conditions created by the blockade.For the Cuban foreign minister, the energy sector is currently one of the most critical issues. He stated that the measures adopted in 2026 have created a situation that is, in practice, equivalent to a naval blockade. “If Cuba were able to acquire even minimal amounts of fuel today, power outages could be reduced to two or three hours a day,” he said. He added that this would also significantly improve the water supply and the food situation.Rodríguez also rejected the claim that Cuba received fuel for free. “That’s completely false; it’s a lie,” he stated. He explained that the island obtained hydrocarbons through commercial channels, barter agreements, or purchases made under even more costly conditions due to the risks associated with U.S. sanctions.Regarding the international stance against the blockade, he highlighted the United Nations votes and asserted that there is widespread global opposition. According to Rodríguez, Cuba often ends up expressing positions that other countries share but do not always articulate with the same forcefulness. In that regard, he stated: “Cuba can speak with complete freedom; it can pursue a fully independent and sovereign foreign policy.”One of the most powerful moments of the interview came when he was asked about the possibility of U.S. military aggression. Rodríguez asserted that Havana does not view these statements as a mere propaganda ploy: “It is a threat that we take seriously—very seriously—and it is of the utmost gravity.”He warned that a conflict would result in the deaths of both Cubans and Americans, as well as serious destabilization in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, trade routes, and the region as a whole.Regarding Cuba’s response to such a scenario, he stated that the country is preparing to defend itself but is simultaneously working to prevent any escalation. “Our people would undoubtedly defend their independence, their sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of our homeland to the very end,” he maintained.Regarding the U.S. announcement of $100 million in humanitarian aid, Rodríguez questioned whether it would actually be delivered. He noted that previous aid packages of $3 million, $9 million, and then $6 million had been announced, but asserted that only a portion of those funds had actually arrived. As for the $100 million, he stated that so far the aid received had reached only about 700 families.Another key issue was Cuban medical cooperation. Rodríguez defended the international role of the island’s health professionals and asserted that Cuba remains a major provider of South-South medical cooperation. He also argued that the sanctions harm citizens of other countries by limiting their access to Cuban technologies and medications, including treatments for cancer, diabetes, diabetic foot, and neurodegenerative diseases.Toward the end of the interview, he insisted that decades of U.S. policy have failed to change the Cuban political system. He reiterated the argument that, after so many years of a policy that has failed to achieve its stated objectives, Washington should reconsider it. “No matter how extreme its measures may be, it’s not going to work,” he asserted.Rodríguez pointed to previous periods of bilateral rapprochement as proof that a different kind of relationship is possible. He said those periods demonstrated that both governments can engage in dialogue, negotiate, and resolve specific problems. He also reiterated Cuba’s willingness to engage in dialogue “on the basis of international law, sovereign equality, on an equal footing, mutual respect, and mutual benefit,” without interference in internal affairs or preconditions.His conclusion was openly optimistic: “In the end, a civilized, productive, and respectful relationship between our two peoples will prevail.” For the foreign minister, that normalization may come about under the current U.S. administration or a future one, but he considers it inevitable that a relationship based on dialogue, trade, and cooperation will ultimately prevail.The full interview can be viewed at the following link: https://youtu.be/LqlQhqvNnqM?si=cJFxrtsCOl0ZP3Zx

Persons with disabilities across the Caribbean are set to gain greater access to employment opportunities with the recent launch of the United Nations’ ‘HireAbility Campaign’, under the theme “Break Barriers. Embrace Inclusion. Champion Rights”. The regional initiative, which promotes disability-inclusive employment and advances the economic participation of persons with disabilities, has attracted support from leading businesses, with some having committed to equitable hiring practices and workplace cultures, through a Disability Inclusive Employer’s Pledge. The ‘HireAbility Campaign’ connects six UN Country Teams in the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean, and brings together governments, employers, organisations of persons with disabilities, youth advocates, development partners and UN agencies. Mr. Simon Springett, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, in delivering Opening Remarks for the Campaign’s official launch, described it as "an important milestone for disability inclusion across the Caribbean", while highlighting its evolution from “a powerful idea advanced by Zinzee Noel, a youth advocate and Grenada’s representative on the UN Youth Advisory Group (YAG), to a Caribbean movement for inclusive employment and equal opportunity”. “Although barriers differ across countries, the aspiration is universal: persons with disabilities must be able to participate fully in society, access decent work, contribute their talents and skills, and be recognized for those contributions,” he maintained. The UN Head thanked disability advocates, employers, and Caribbean businesses, including Massy Stores Saint Lucia, Grenada Broadcasting Network, and photography and videography companies Unique Productions Inc. and Bajanpro Inc. of Grenada and Barbados respectively, for their leadership and support. He also urged stakeholders to view the campaign not as a one-time event, but as part of a sustained journey toward accessible workplaces and more inclusive communities. In her Welcome Remarks, Ms. Noel, who co-hosted the event alongside Mr. Loik Charles, fellow youth disability advocate, and YAG representative for Dominica, underscored the Campaign's central message that persons with disabilities already possess the skills, qualifications, creativity and determination needed to contribute meaningfully to the workforce. Reflecting on her own journey, where she faced ongoing discrimination despite being qualified and extremely capable, she maintained: “The HireAbility Campaign gives us an opportunity to change the conversation. Its message is simple but powerful: Break barriers. Embrace inclusion. Champion rights.” Ms. Noel stressed that inclusive hiring benefits not only individuals, but strengthens organisations, communities and economies. Thomas Kring, Deputy Director of the International Labour Organization Caribbean Office, in his Feature Address told participants : "Access to decent work is not charity. It's about rights, dignity, equality and economic participation.” Charging that labour markets markets must provide persons with disabilities with fair opportunities to develop their skills, find decent work and contribute fully to society, he described the Inclusive Employer Pledge as a public commitment to equitable hiring, dignity, respect and equal opportunity. Among the highlights of the launch was the signing of the Disability Inclusive Employer Pledge, by representatives of Carenage Bay Holding Ltd in Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Runman Belize Corporation; and The Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited. Signatories also outlined concrete actions being taken to fulfil this public commitment, including plans by the Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited to launch an internship programme for persons with disabilities. Bringing the curtain down on the launch ceremony, Mr. Charles urged employers and partners across the Caribbean to sign the Pledge, remove workplace barriers, strengthen partnerships, and commit to long-term change that advances disability inclusion across the region. A disability inclusion sensitisation webinar immediately followed the launch, with presentations by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) offering practical expert guidance on inclusive hiring, workplace accessibility, reasonable accommodation, violence and harassment prevention, and supportive workplace environments. The HireAbility Campaign will continue over the next four months and culminate on International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, thus providing more employers with the opportunity to sign the Pledge. The campaign’s ultimate goal is a Caribbean where talent is recognized, barriers are removed, and persons with disabilities can participate fully and equally in the world of work.

Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) marks four decades of investing in the educational development of young people in Dominica with the presentation of scholarships to four outstanding students entering secondary school. The awards were presented on Thursday, August 27, 2026, during a ceremony held at DOMLEC’s Conference Room at the Engineering, Transmission and Distribution (ET&D) complex at Fond Colé. The 2026 recipients are Kaley Fabien of Ebenezer SDA Primary School, who will attend Arthur Waldron SDA Academy; Kira Bertrand of Newtown Primary School, who will attend Dominica Grammar School; Merjhana Guiste of Roosevelt Douglas Primary School, who will attend Portsmouth Secondary School; and Daville Alexander of Massacre Primary School, who will attend Dominica Grammar School. The students will receive scholarship support for up to five years, subject to satisfactory academic performance. The scholarship covers essential educational expenses, including books, stationery, examination fees and a transportation allowance. The DOMLEC Scholarship Programme, now in its 40th year, has supported generations of students across Dominica and forms part of the company’s longstanding commitment to contrib uting to the development of the country beyond the provision of electricity. Speaking at the ceremony, Claudia Brumant, Human Resources & Administration Manager, highlighted the significance of reaching the programme’s 40-year milestone and DOMLEC’s continued commitment to young people. “For many years DOMLEC has proudly invested in the youth of Dominica fostering education as the cornerstone of national development, and today, we continue that proud legacy. At DOMLEC our vision extends beyond supplying power to our nation. We are dedicated to powering the potential of our communities.” Brumant encouraged the scholarship recipients to stay on track when challenges arise. “The choices we make today create the lives we live tomorrow. In the five years of secondary school there will be days when the lessons are difficult, when hours are long and when you face challenges you don’t expect. Those moments call for a new level of dedication, commitment and perseverance.” The programme has traditionally provided scholarships to both children of DOMLEC employees and students from the wider community. This year, no scholarship awarded to internal applicants, instead, all four awards were presented to students from the wider Dominican community. DOMLEC Public Relations Officer Ayeola George said the programme’s four-decade legacy demonstrates the lasting impact that corporate investment in education can have. “For 40 years, DOMLEC has been helping to open doors for young people through this scholarship programme. By providing support for essential educational supplies, we help to ease the financial burden on parents. The money saved can then be redirected towards other areas of the child’s development or used to help cover the educational expenses of another sibling.” “Today we had a past beneficiary return to not just share his experience but inspire a new generation of scholars. He advised attendees that he wants to also give back and contribute positively to other youth. This most certainly is an example of the wide-reaching impact of this award,” she added. This student, LynD Letang, is the son of DOMLEC employee Linton Letang. The ceremony also featured a presentation by scholarship recipient Kaley Fabien who presented the company with her artwork showcasing her vision of a renewable energy Dominican future in Dominica. The scholarship recipients are required to maintain satisfactory academic performance, refrain from repeating classes and submit their report cards to DOMLEC at the end of each school term. They are also required to return all textbooks provided through the programme to the company in good condition at the end of each school year. As DOMLEC celebrates 40 years of its scholarship programme, the company continues to view education as an important pillar of its corporate social responsibility and remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the development and empowerment of Dominica’s youth. -end-

At 28, Julino Cuffy represents a generation of young Dominicans seeing agriculture not simply as a tradition, but as an opportunity to build a livelihood and contribute to the country's food security. Agriculture was not initially the career Juliano had imagined. He had ambitions of becoming an aerospace engineer, but financial circumstances changed his path. Farming, which had been part of his family for generations, became an opportunity. Today, that opportunity is something he is working to grow.From his farm in Marigot, Julino produces a diverse range of crops. His short-term crops include cucumbers, purple cabbage, lettuce, parsley and celery, while his longer-term investments include cocoa, citrus, avocado and other fruit trees. He also practices plant grafting. His approach demonstrates an important reality about youth involvement in agriculture: producing food is only one part of building a successful agricultural enterprise. Young farmers also need access to markets, financing and business support that can help them move from production to sustainable entrepreneurship. Julino understands this firsthand. He strategically combines short- and long-term crops, using crops with shorter harvesting periods to generate quicker returns while investing in crops that may take years to become productive. "Short-term crop farming takes a shorter period of time to get ready for harvest and is a much quicker turnover," he explains. That type of planning reflects the entrepreneurial thinking increasingly necessary in agriculture. Yet having a good production strategy does not eliminate the structural barriers young farmers can encounter. Among Julino's biggest challenges is access to markets. He also identifies transportation as a constraint. Without his own vehicle, reaching the farm where he cultivates his long-term crops can be difficult. For a farmer, transportation can affect more than mobility; it can influence access to inputs, farms and ultimately markets. Financing is another critical piece of the puzzle. For Julino, access to finance is not simply about receiving money. It is about investing in assets that could make his operation more productive and efficient. He points to the need for farm inputs, machinery and a greenhouse as examples of investments that could help him expand his operation. "If I had the financial assistance... it would make my farming a lot easier and efficient," he says. His experience illustrates why support for young farmers must extend beyond encouraging youth to enter agriculture. If farming is to provide sustainable livelihoods, young producers need an enabling environment that allows them to operate as entrepreneurs. This includes access to appropriate financing, reliable markets, transportation, equipment and stronger coordination with institutions that can support agricultural development.His story demonstrates the potential that exists when young people bring ambition, experimentation and entrepreneurial thinking to agriculture. It also raises an important question: once young people choose agriculture, are the systems around them equipped to help their businesses succeed? Investing in young farmers therefore means investing beyond the farm itself. Connecting youth to financing, markets, technology and entrepreneurial support can help transform agricultural production into viable businesses creating livelihoods, strengthening local food systems and giving young people greater opportunities to build their futures.

A well-known consultant gynecologist is recommending an increase in maternity leave as part of efforts to encourage more women to have children in Dominica. Dr. Curvin Ferreira has expressed concern about the country’s declining birth rate, noting that the trend has become a growing issue in recent years. He believes that providing mothers with a longer period of maternity leave could serve as an incentive, while also giving women more time to recover and care for their newborns.

Dominican farmer Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste has been selected as one of the inaugural Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development. Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste of Capuchin was selected following a highly competitive global process which attracted more than 600 nominations from 131 countries. According to the FAO, she distinguished herself through her leadership, dedication, innovation and tangible contribution to strengthening agrifood systems and improving the lives of rural communities. A farmer for more than four decades, Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste operates a seven-acre farm producing crops and livestock for the local market. Her production includes citrus, plantain, avocado, vegetables, turmeric, potatoes and onions, as well as goats, broilers and layers. She is a major supplier of fresh eggs and vegetables to supermarkets and local vendors. Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste has also distinguished herself through her commitment to sustainable agriculture. Her farming practices include green manuring, mixed farming, rainwater harvesting, reforestation, composting and the use of natural alternative inputs, while applying the principles of Good Agricultural Practices. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Hon. Roland Royer welcomed the recognition, describing it as a proud achievement for Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste and for Dominica’s agricultural sector. “Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste represents the dedication, resilience and innovation of our farmers. For more than four decades, she has contributed to food production and to the development of other farmers and her community. We are extremely proud that her work has now received this important international recognition.” Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste regularly supports agricultural training and demonstrations and serves as President of the Capuchin Farmers’ Group. She is also involved in several community, cultural and civic organisations and was recognised in 2023 with the Best Woman in Sustainable Farming Award. The FAO noted that her selection also reflects Dominica’s commitment to supporting women as leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, farmers and agents of change in agrifood systems. Her work contributes to food security, rural development, environmental sustainability, community resilience and economic opportunity. Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste will be celebrated at a special awards ceremony during the World Food Forum flagship event at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, from October 12–16, 2026. The recognition forms part of activities marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, highlighting the contribution of women to more inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems.

On the heels of its 26th Orientation Ceremony, the Dominica State College (DSC) is set to host Freshers’ Week 2026, September 1-4. This special week marks the official welcome of the Class of 2028, with approximately 500 freshmen expected to join the DSC community. Freshers’ Week is designed to equip new students with the tools and resources they need for academic success, while also serving as a vibrant introduction to college life. It reflects DSC’s commitment to ensuring that every new student experience a smooth and supportive transition into higher education. Some of the most in-demand programs this time around include: Certificate in Pre-Health, Associate Degree in Hospitality, Business Administration (General), Biology and Architecture, as well as BSc Business Management. From September 1-4, incoming students will participate in a series of orientation and registration activities designed to help them get acclimated to campus, familiarize themselves with college life, and get settled ahead of the start of classes on September 8. DSC eagerly looks forward to welcoming the Graduating Class of 2028, committed to supporting their success, growth, and lasting memories throughout their journey at the College.

Dominica has seen a reduction in reported cases of cervical cancer, according to Consultant Gynecologist Dr. Curvin Ferreira. Dr. Ferreira attributes the decline to various healthcare measures introduced by the Government of Dominica aimed at improving women’s health and cancer prevention. Despite the positive trend in cervical cancer, Dr. Ferreira cautioned that other health concerns affecting women are becoming increasingly prevalent and require greater attention. The gynecologist made the remarks during an appearance on the Creole Heartbeat programme, hosted by Leroy Wadix Charles on DBS Radio last week.

National Bank of Dominica Ltd. (NBD) proudly recognized ten outstanding students during its Bright Future Scholarship Handover Ceremony and officially introduced its newly revised Bright Future Scholarship Program. Designed to expand educational opportunities and strengthen support for student success, the program underscores NBD's commitment to empowering the next generation of Dominican leaders. Held in the presence of scholarship recipients, parents, educators, and NBD team members, the ceremony celebrated students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, perseverance, leadership potential, and a dedication to excellence. This year's scholarship recipients are Akira Faustin, Anola Ducreay, Eden Nesty, Kellis Delsol, Maya Royer, Amelie Adams, Ashanti Darroux, Byron Barrie, Jaybee Fanfan, and Malachi Christmas. Recognized for their hard work and determination, these students now join a growing community of young scholars whose educational journeys have been supported through NBD's longstanding investment in youth development. The Bright Future Scholarship Program forms part of NBD's broader commitment to community advancement and nation-building. Through this initiative, the Bank provides financial support and encouragement to deserving students, helping to remove barriers to education while creating opportunities for future success. Speaking at the ceremony, NBD representatives underscored the Bank's unwavering commitment to education, youth development, and community empowerment. Michelle Joseph, Marketing Manager at National Bank of Dominica Ltd., emphasized the transformative power of education and the importance of investing in the nation's future. "At NBD, we believe that education is one of the most powerful investments we can make in our nation's future. The Bright Future Scholarship Program represents more than financial assistance. It is a commitment to empowering young people, unlocking potential, and creating opportunities for success. Today, we celebrate not only academic achievement but also the promise and possibilities that each scholarship recipient brings to Dominica's future." Deputy General Manager Cedric Charles highlighted the significance of the Bank's investment in the next generation of leaders, noting that the scholarship recipients embody the dedication, perseverance, and ambition needed to drive national progress. "These scholarships reflect NBD's enduring commitment to supporting the communities we serve. We recognize that behind every outstanding student is a story of hard work, determination, and sacrifice. By investing in these young achievers, we are helping to develop future leaders, professionals, and innovators who will contribute meaningfully to the social and economic development of Dominica. We are proud to play a role in their educational journey and look forward to witnessing their continued success." Director Jodie Luke commended the recipients for their resilience, discipline, and pursuit of excellence, encouraging them to embrace the opportunities before them with confidence and purpose. She noted that the enhanced Bright Future Scholarship Program reflects NBD's continued commitment to nurturing talent and creating pathways for young people to achieve their full potential. Scholarship recipient Amelie Adams expressed appreciation for the support provided through the program and the opportunities it creates for students striving to achieve their academic goals. "I am truly grateful to NBD for this opportunity. This scholarship is an investment in my future and serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can open doors. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and pursuing my goals with determination." Recipients and their families also expressed gratitude for the support provided through the program, noting the positive impact it will have on their educational aspirations and future opportunities. Reflecting on the significance of the award, scholarship recipient Amelie Adams shared her appreciation for the support provided by the NBD Bright Future Scholarship program. "I am truly grateful to NBD for this opportunity. This scholarship is an investment in my future and serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can open doors. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and pursuing my goals with determination." The ceremony underscored NBD's belief in the potential of Dominican youth and its commitment to strengthening communities through investment in education. By supporting talented and hardworking students, the Bank continues to create opportunities that contribute to both individual success and national development. As the inaugural cohort of Bright Future scholars embarks on the next stage of their academic journey, NBD remains committed to fostering achievement, encouraging excellence, and empowering the leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

The Dominica Athletics Association Inc. (DAA) calls for applications for the 2026 DAA Athletic Legacy Scholarship, a need-based initiative designed to support promising student-athletes in Dominica who demonstrate academic potential, athletic dedication, and financial need. This scholarship provides EC$1000 to assist with educational expenses, including tuition, books, uniforms, and supplies. The initiative was introduced in 2025 and reflects the DAA’s continued commitment to investing in the development of young athletes while encouraging them to pursue excellence both on the track and in the classroom. To be considered for the 2026 DAA Athletic Legacy Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements: • Be a citizen of the Commonwealth of Dominica. • Be enrolled in a recognized secondary school in Dominica for the 2026–2027 academic year. • Have competed in a minimum of three (3) athletic competitions during the 2025–2026 athletic year. • Demonstrate financial need. Applicants may submit application via the online form found on the DAA Facebook Page and Instagram OR receive and submit physical application forms at the Dominica Olympic Committee (DOC) Office, Bath Estate, from Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00p.m. The DAA encourages eligible student-athletes who meet these requirements to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications by Friday, September 4, 2026. For additional information and assistance with the application process, applicants may contact the Dominica Athletics Association via email at dmaathleticssocials@gmail.com or by telephone/WhatsApp at 767-285-3206. The Dominica Athletics Association encourages eligible student-athletes to apply and take this important step toward furthering their academic and athletic development.

Aug. 21-26 promotion features public pop-ups, WCMF ticket giveaways, ASTA participation, media engagements and a destination and festivals cocktail Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) is taking its Destination & Festival Promotion to St. Kitts and Nevis from Aug. 21-26, with a series of consumer, travel trade and media engagements designed to increase destination awareness and encourage travel to Dominica, particularly for the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set for Oct. 23-25, 2026 and Mas Domnik, Dominica’s Carnival, set for Feb. 8-9, 2027. The promotion will include DDA’s participation in the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) event, two public pop-up activations, a Dominica Destination Cocktail and radio and television interviews. The activities will engage consumers, travel professionals, media and tourism partners while promoting Dominica’s year-round tourism experiences and signature festivals. The public promotion begins Friday, Aug. 21, with a pop-up at No Rush Bar in Basseterre from 6-7 p.m., followed by an activation at Chill Bar in Nevis from 8:30-9:30 p.m. and a late-night activation at Vibes Beach Bar & Grill in Frigate Bay from midnight-1 a.m. Patrons will have opportunities to win tickets to WCMF, engage with the Dominica team and learn more about travel to the Nature Island Entertainment at both pop-up activations will feature Benji of Dominica’s TK International, one of the bands set to perform at WCMF 2026 and St. Kitts and Nevis’ DJ Tero, who is also a participating DJ at this year’s festival ., will also provide entertainment at DDA’s Destination and Festivals Cocktail. On Monday, Aug. 24, DDA will host the Dominica Destination Cocktail from 7-9 p.m. at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort. The invitation-only event will bring together travel advisers, tour operators, media representatives, influencers, tourism partners and other stakeholders for destination updates and information on Dominica’s accommodations, travel options, tourism experiences and upcoming festivals. DDA’s participation in the ASTA event will provide additional opportunities to engage directly with travel professionals, strengthen relationships with the travel trade and position Dominica for increased regional travel. Radio and television interviews throughout the promotion will extend the campaign to audiences across St. Kitts and Nevis. Representing DDA during the promotion are Wendy Lake, Destinations Marketing Manager and Monelle Alexis, Public Relations and Communications Specialist. They will be joined by Kareem Guiste and Wayne Benjamin. WCMF returns to Windsor Park Sports Stadium from Oct. 23-25 for three nights of international, Caribbean, Creole and Dominican music. The 2026 lineup includes NE-YO, Machel Montan, Uncle Waffles and Maxi Priest, alongside TK International, DJ Tero and artists from Dominica, the Caribbean and international markets. The promotion will also highlight Mas Domnik, Dominica’s Carnival, culminating Feb. 8-9, 2027, with music, costumes, pageantry, traditional carnival characters and street celebrations. The St. Kitts and Nevis promotion is part of DDA’s ongoing efforts to build demand for Dominica in regional markets and strengthen relationships with consumers, travel trade and media partners. Residents of St. Kitts and Nevis are encouraged to connect with the DDA team during the Aug. 21 pop-ups and follow Discover Dominica and Dominica Festivals on Facebook and Instagram for updates and opportunities to win tickets to WCMF 2026.