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The Men’s Senior National Football Team will participate for the first time in the CONCACAF Series this week in St Kitts. The CONCACAF Series, is meant to provide matches for member nations that have already been eliminated from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification. Dominica has been placed in Group B along side Belize, St Martin, Sint Maarten and host country St Kitts. Dominica will play its first game on Wednesday 13th November against St Martin, and will be back in action on Saturday November 15th against Sint Maarten. The technical staff of the Senior Men's National Football Team has selected 23 players to represent Dominica at the CONCACAF Friendly Series in St. Kitts. The squad includes 4 new comers and 5 overseas based players. The players chosen are: Goalkeepers Jerome Burkard Donte Newton Jaheem Cuffy Defenders Eustace Marshall Jaylan Jnoville Marcus Bredas Ethan Nichols (new comer) Nick Anthony Lyan Edwards Mosiah Bonney (overseas based) Durelle Durand (new comer/overseas based) Midfielders Savio Anselm Nathan Newton Jervanie Xavier Briel Thomas Malachai Bonney (overseas based) Gylles Mitchel (overseas based) Forwards Audel Laville Travist Joseph Javid George Donte Warrington Antawn Larocque Troy Jules (overseas based) Team Coach - Ellington Sabin. Assistant Coach – Delroy Watt Team Medic – Clevon Vidal Team Doctor – Dr Curtis St John Equipment Manager – Reginald Darroux Manager – Kelvin Benjamin Media Officer – Garvin Richards Match Schedule: 12th November 2025 Dominica vs St Martin – 3pm 15th November 2025 Dominica vs Sint Marteen – 3pm Issued by: Dominica Football Association – Corporate Communications

Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit will attend the CELAC–EU Summit Caribbean-EU Leaders’ Meeting, taking place today, November 10, 2025, in Santa Marta, Colombia. The high-level meeting brings together Heads of State and Government from Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union to deepen dialogue and cooperation. The meeting includes leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Secretary- General of CARICOM, as well as representatives from the Dominican Republic and Cuba. The President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the rotating Presidency of the European Union will also participate. The President of Colombia will join the session as host of the CELAC-EU Summit. The engagements in Santa Marta are expected to focus on shared priorities such as sustainable development, climate resilience, trade and global cooperation. During the Prime Minister’s absence from the state, the Honourable Cassanni Laville, Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services is serving as Acting Prime Minister.

The Rotary Club of Dominica and the Rotaract Club of Roseau joined the nation in marking National Community Day of Service on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, by undertaking a community service project at the Acute Psychiatric Unit (APU) of the Dominica China Friendship Hospital. Members of the Club spent the day repainting and refreshing sections of the APU building — a structure that holds special significance for the Club, as it was originally built by the Rotary Club of Dominica in 1982. This act of service represents a continuation of Rotary’s longstanding commitment to community development, healthcare support, and national well-being. President PHF Dr. Jermaine Jewel Jean-Pierre of the Rotary Club of Dominica noted that the project symbolizes both service and continuity. “The Acute Psychiatric Unit stands as a lasting example of Rotary’s contribution to Dominica’s healthcare system. It is deeply meaningful for our members to return more than four decades later to help preserve a facility we helped establish,” said the President. “This initiative reflects our motto — ‘Service Above Self’ — and our ongoing dedication to supporting mental health care in Dominica.” Several Rotarians and volunteers including the staff and residents of the Acute Psychiatric Unit took part in the activity, which formed part of the nationwide observance encouraging civic pride and volunteerism. When the Rotary Club of Dominica built the APU in 1982, the goal was to provide a dignified, supportive environment for mental health patients. Seeing the facility continue to serve the public today is a proud moment for the Club and a reminder of the enduring impact of community partnerships. The Rotary Club of Dominica continues to champion projects in health, education, youth development, and community service as part of its mission to improve lives and foster goodwill locally and globally.

The Ministry of Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture, in collaboration with the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), is pleased to announce the observance of Tourism Awareness Month, celebrated from 1 st to 30 th November 2025, under the theme: “Sustainable Tourism: People, Planet and Pure Grenada.” This year’s theme underscores a balanced approach to tourism development, one that benefits Grenada’s environment, society and economy. It emphasizes that the tourism industry should be positioned to respect the environment, empower local communities and celebrates the island’s unique heritage and diverse product offerings. The goal is to ensure that Grenada remains sustainable, attractive and globally competitive. In his official opening message to mark the launch of the month’s celebrations, Senator the Honourable Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in shaping Grenada’s tourism future; "Tourism Awareness Month is a time for all of us, including government, industry partners, supporters, intermediaries and communities to reflect on how we can protect our environment, celebrate our culture, and ensure that tourism benefits every Grenadian. Sustainable tourism is not just a concept; it is a shared responsibility, and through this month of activities, we invite everyone to participate in preserving our beautiful island for generations to come." Major Activities for Tourism Awareness Month 2025 include:  A message from Senator the Honorable Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture; School Tours and Outreach Programmes educating young people on Grenada’s tourism product offerings with visits to hotels, service providers and attractions;  Staff Edutainment Activities to promote awareness and build knowledge on the industry;  A Social Media Campaign to highlight the importance of Tourism to Grenada’s economy;  A Tourism Pop-up Event on 27 th November at the Grenville Car park, showcasing local talent, creativity and tourism products. The Ministry and the GTA invite and encourage all residents and visitors to participate in the various activities and to join the movement toward a greener, more sustainable and culturally vibrant Grenada.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is excited to announce a three-day immersive strategic session designed to prepare stakeholders in Carriacou and Petite Martinique for the 2025/2026 tourism season. This initiative aims to enhance brand positioning, messaging, and provide general information on the GTA’s focus for 2026 and beyond. The sessions will commence on Wednesday, November 12, with a visit to Petite Martinique. On Thursday, November 13, the CEO of the GTA will present the 2026 Global Strategy to stakeholders, followed by an engaging session on social media led by Ms. Kered Clement. The strategic sessions will conclude on Friday, November 14, with presentations on Quality Assurance by QA Manager Keron Moore and Marketing 101 by CMO Tornia Charles. The CEO of the GTA emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating, "It is crucial for all our stakeholders to be prepared for what lies ahead. We want to ensure that Carriacou and Petite Martinique are intimately involved in the strategic positioning of our destinations and that we receive buy-in from our stakeholders. Our Marketing of the Destinations has to be a collective effort, and we need everyone’s involvement and support to position our destinations on a global stage." The GTA is committed to fostering collaboration and ensuring that all stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in the upcoming season. This strategic session represents a significant step in achieving these goals and strengthening the tourism sector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

The beautiful sister isle of Carriacou once again took center stage on Sunday, October 26th as it celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Carriacou Corn Festival, a milestone that also marked the island’s remarkable recovery following the devastation of Hurricane Beryl in 2024. After the first cancellation in its history, the festival’s return symbolized a powerful renewal of community spirit and cultural pride. Since its inception in 2015, the Corn Festival has showcased the incredible versatility of one of the Caribbean’s most essential crops, transforming corn into culinary art and celebration. Visitors sampled both beloved traditional recipes and inventive creations such as corn wine, cornmeal ice cream, savoury corn puddings, and corn dumplings, proof that corn remains a true culinary powerhouse. “One of the things we have endeavoured to do is to try and have something new every year, something different and we have been able to do that for the last number of years, and this year is no exception, we are looking at one new product we can derive from corn,” said Dexter Leggard, Coordinator of the Carriacou Corn Festival. Beyond its signature dishes, the festival brimmed with culture and history. String band music filled the air, while the children’s corn float delighted audiences, giving the younger generation a chance to take part in a cherished tradition. Exhibits displayed the timeless heritage of corn production, featuring hand-held mills and other artefacts that honour the island’s agricultural roots. “This year’s Carriacou Corn Festival goes beyond a culinary event, it’s a beacon of cultural resilience and innovation,” noted Mrs. Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Seeing this tradition return in such vibrant form after the challenges of Hurricane Beryl is truly inspiring. We are proud to support Carriacou as it reclaims its space on the cultural map, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its warmth, creativity and spirit.” Minister for Tourism, Sen. Hon. Adrian Thomas, commended the organizers and community for their unwavering dedication to preserving Carriacou’s traditions and strengthening its cultural tourism appeal. “The success of this year’s Corn Festival is a reminder of the rich traditions and boundless creativity that define Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The Ministry of Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture is committed to supporting and enhancing our cultural heritage into sustainable opportunities that benefit our people, communities and our nation’s tourism future.” While the 2025 Carriacou Corn Festival celebrated the boundless possibilities of corn, it also represented a renewed chapter in the island’s cultural calendar. The Grenada Tourism Authority remains committed to supporting Carriacou and Petite Martinique as culturally rich, diverse, and premier destinations within the tri-island state.

The Jamaica-based company scales up relief efforts with additional care packages, free mobile plans and other vital supplies to help communities recover from the storm — Digicel Group and the Digicel Jamaica Foundation have launched a major humanitarian initiative to support recovery efforts across the hardest hits parts of Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa. The joint relief effort will deliver nearly 12,000 care packages that include essential supplies to residents in the western parishes most affected by the storm, including Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St. James, and Trelawny. As part of its Reconnecting Jamaica effort, Digicel and the Foundation have already delivered more than 1,500 food care packs to families in need and is preparing to distribute an additional 10,000 care packages in the coming days. These packages include essential food supplies such as water, rice, oil, and other staples to support households most affected by the storm. In addition, the Foundation is also providing hygiene care packs for men, women, and children, as well as LED solar lanterns, LED headlamps, and rechargeable emergency LED bulbs to assist families still without power. To help rebuild homes and restore livelihoods, Digicel and the Foundation are also providing hardware certificates that will allow residents to purchase construction materials directly from local suppliers. This initiative empowers homeowners to buy what they need to rebuild safely and sustainably within their own communities. Helping Families Reconnect and Recover “At Digicel, we are committed to ensuring that Jamaica stays connected, not just through our network, but through care, compassion, and community,” said Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of Digicel Group. “In times like this, our responsibility goes beyond business. We’re focused on helping families rebuild, restoring hope, and supporting the government’s recovery efforts across the parishes hit hardest by Hurricane Melissa.” The Digicel Foundation, which has been at the heart of community development for nearly two decades, has mobilized its staff and volunteers across the island to coordinate on-the-ground distribution and outreach. Digicel is also distributing hundreds of SIM cards with data plans to relief workers supporting recovery operations. For customers whose service was disrupted, Digicel is offering complimentary prepaid plans with 30 minutes of voice calls and 2GB of data, as well as 30-day postpaid plans with 10GB of data once service is restored. Meanwhile, mobile charging stations have been deployed on Digicel buses, visiting impacted communities, enabling residents to charge their devices and communicate with loved ones. The team is also working with the Government of Jamaica to help fill its environmental and health supply needs like hand-held foggers, DPD testing tablets, turbidity meters, blood pressure machines among other items. Alongside this, Digicel will be launching voice and text donation lines across its markets, standing up a crowdsourcing campaign to make it easier for customers throughout the region to contribute directly to relief efforts. Donation bins have also been placed on each floor of Digicel’s Kingston headquarters, so staff can donate non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, clothing, and bedding to support those in need. “Our Reconnecting Jamaica mission is about restoring dignity, stability, and access to basic necessities for those who need it the most,” said Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation. “We’ve seen the devastation firsthand in communities across the island. These care packages are more than just supplies, they’re a message that they’re not alone, and we’re here for the long haul.” Rebuilding with Resilience Across the island, Digicel’s network teams remain committed and have been working around the clock, every day, to reconnect customers impacted by the storm as quickly as possible.  “As we restore connectivity, we’re also rebuilding communities,” added Stephen Murad, CEO of Digicel Jamaica. “Reconnecting Jamaica is our sole focus. We’re proud of our teams who have gone above and beyond to bring service back online, while also volunteering in the distribution of relief supplies. This is what being a part of the Digicel family is all about, standing with our customers when they need us most.”

Dominica has once again proven that the rhythm of Creole culture beats strongest on the Nature Island. The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) surpassed expectations, drawing over 42,000 patrons across three unforgettable nights, a remarkable leap from 30,217 in 2024. Visitor arrivals soared to 10,540 in the nine days leading up to the festival, marking a 48% increase compared to the same period last year, the highest pre-festival performance ever recorded. This surge created a vibrant boost for tourism, with an even greater ripple effect across small businesses, transportation, hospitality, entertainment and the creative sector.   “Dominicans welcomed the world, and the world responded,” said Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister for Tourism. “The success of our 25th anniversary festival reflects not just great planning but the passion, creativity and resilience of our people. The multiplier effect from this single weekend is being felt across every corner of the economy, from taxi operators and vendors to hotels and artisans. This is how culture drives growth.”   Across the island, hotels reported full or near-full occupancy. Restaurants, nightspots and tour companies extended operations to meet unprecedented demand from visitors traveling from Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, North America and Europe. The festival’s success underscored the loyalty of regional patrons and their deep connection to Dominica’s Creole music.   Local and regional artists delivered electrifying performances that celebrated Dominica’s musical identity and proudly showcased the island’s creative excellence to the world. Vendors and community entrepreneurs also reported strong commercial success, demonstrating how the festival uplifts lives and sustains livelihoods.   Minister Charles-Pemberton expressed special thanks to the Government of Dominica, sponsors, media partners, volunteers, security services and especially to the Discover Dominica Authority team whose dedication made the milestone edition a triumph. “This success was not by chance,” she added. “It was the result of teamwork, strategic investment and faith in the power of our people and our culture.”   As the 25th edition celebration closes, plans are already underway to make WCMF 2026 an even greater experience,  one that continues to position Dominica as the Caribbean’s leading nature and culture destination. Visitors are encouraged to book early and return to the Nature Island, where music, nature, and Creole pride unite.

The Nature Island unveils new offers, experiences and destination updates timed with the new destination campaign   – The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has launched Nature of Love , a campaign that celebrates Dominica’s unspoiled beauty and how its landscapes inspire romance, adventure and meaningful connection. Designed for nature lovers, couples, families and solo travelers, the campaign positions Dominica as a place to experience togetherness, personal renewal and the beauty of pure nature. Named one of the Best Places in the World to Travel in 2026  by National Geographic , Dominica offers distinct experiences that bring visitors closer to nature.   “The Nature of Love campaign invites travelers to experience Dominica through meaningful connections,” said Marva Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority. “Couples can find romance, families can reconnect and solo travelers can focus on personal well-being. Our people, culture and natural surroundings work together to create a sense of renewal that stays with visitors long after they leave.”   The Nature Island is renowned for its immersive nature and adventure experiences. Visitors can explore the Waitukubuli National Trail, the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean, trek to Boiling Lake, the second largest in the world, swim alongside sperm whales and discover world-class diving sites teeming with marine life. The island’s lush rainforests, towering mountain peaks, more than 360 rivers and cascading waterfalls provide a striking backdrop for romance, adventure and personal renewal, setting the stage for lasting memories and intimate experiences crafted for connection.   Experiences Dominica’s newest experiences highlight the island’s spirit of adventure, sustainability and community: ·         Extreme Dominica now offers an advanced canyoning excursion through the iconic Trois Piton Canyon, a full-day experience led by two expert guides ideal for experienced adventurers seeking a new challenge. ·         The Waitukubuli Sea Trail has expanded with new accommodations along its 40-mile, 14-segment route, making the trail more accessible to paddlers of all skill levels. Paddlers can also book a guided Indian River excursion as part of the Sea Trail to explore Dominica’s most famous and widest river from kayak. ·          Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa’s new Rosalie Bay Distillery is the world’s first and only conservation distillery, now open for tours and tastings. Guests can enjoy award-winning rum while investing in sea turtle conservation, coral reef restoration, whale protection and the management of protected areas in Dominica, as 100% of all proceeds are directly reinvested into these efforts.   Hotel News Dominica’s luxury resorts and eco-lodges are unveiling exciting new amenities this season: ·         Secret Bay will debut four new Clifftop Villas this November, including two Zabuco and two Ti-Fèy villas, followed by the start of construction on nine new Waterfront Villas in December. ·         Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort will expand its dive fleet this November with Glorieux , a 36-foot vessel accommodating up to 22 divers or 30 passengers for group dives, private charters and signature swim-with-the-whales excursions. ·         Sea Cliff Eco Cottages & Gin Distillery will debut a new clifftop bar and swimming pool by year’s end, featuring “garden-to-glass" cocktails, a boutique and a tranquil yoga pavilion overlooking the ocean.   Packages and Promotions Dominica’s hotels continue to enhance their offerings with new packages and experiences designed for every traveler: ·         Jungle Bay has launched an all-inclusive Adventure Wellness Package that includes airport transfers, accommodations, all-organic meals and juices, island exploration, on-site activities and daily spa treatments. ·          Coulibri Ridge expands its honeymoon offerings with the new Dominica is For Lovers Honeymoon Package , available in three-, five- and seven-night options. Each includes guided hikes, couples’ massages and romantic excursions showcasing the island’s natural beauty. ·         Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa introduces three new packages for the 2026 season — the Romance Escape Package, Winter Wellness Retreat and Solo Explorer Package — each combining all-inclusive dining, spa treatments and curated island adventures.   Accessibility Increased demand for travel to Dominica continues into 2025 with several airlines expanding service: ·         Contour Airlines has launched new nonstop flights connecting Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM). These new routes mark Contour’s official entry into the Caribbean market and significantly enhance regional connectivity. ·         United Airlines will expand its nonstop service from Newark Liberty International Airport to DOM beginning October 29, adding a midweek Wednesday flight to complement its existing Saturday service. ·          American Airlines has increased its service from Miami International Airport (MIA) to DOM, now offering two daily flights ahead of the busy winter travel season. ·          Caribbean Airlines has expanded service from Toronto via Port of Spain, now operating up to four times weekly southbound and twice weekly northbound with connections to San Juan and Trinidad.

Vescort Jones is pleased to announce that he has been reinstated to his position as Aviation Security Officer with the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA). Today’s reinstatement comes 10 years and 10 months after he was dismissed in circumstances that were both regrettable and deeply unfortunate. Following the failure of the Labour Tribunal over ten years to reach a decision on the claim for wrongful dismissal and the appointment of a second tribunal for a new hearing, the parties engaged in recent months and an amicable settlement, including a compensation package satisfactory to Mr. Jones, has been agreed. Mr. Jones welcomes this resolution and expresses appreciation for the fair and constructive approach taken by his employer in bringing closure to the matter thereby allowing him to return to a profession he enjoys and in which he has served with dedication, integrity, and distinction over the years: “I am very happy to return to the job I have always loved. Aviation security has been my passion and my calling. I thank my family, my attorney, all those who believed in me, supported me, and stood by me throughout my long and difficult pursuit of justice.” Mr. Jones looks forward to continuing his service to the people of Dominica and contributing once again to the safety, security and efficiency of the nation’s air and sea port operations.

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