Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty proudly present the 2nd Annual Afro-Caribbean 2025 Edition – Fashion Time-Travel Event! Get ready for an electrifying night where history, culture, and fashion collide in a spectacular celebration of Dominica’s heritage. Set for Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Anchorage Hotel, this year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever. Following last year’s incredible success, “Dominica’s Story Comes to Life” returns with a brand-new theme: “The First Settlers”—a captivating journey through the trials, triumphs, and resilience of Dominica’s earliest inhabitants. This year’s edition will take guests on an immersive experience through runway time-travel, from the roots of the Kalinago people to the vibrant, contemporary expressions of Afro-Caribbean culture today. Expect a jaw-dropping fusion of fashion, storytelling, spoken word, and high-energy performances that bring the island’s history to life. The night’s highlight includes a special guest performance by renowned Dominican artist Michele Henderson. Other featured segments include an evolution of Dominican fashion, from traditional Kalinago attire to modern adaptations inspired by the colors of the Dominican flag, alongside spoken word poetry, an open-mic session, and a runway showcase of national wear both traditional and contemporary. Speaking on the evolution of the event, Kimara Matthew, CEO and Founder of Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty, expressed her excitement for this year's expanded edition. “This second edition is not just a show—it’s a cultural movement. We are diving deeper into our roots, honoring our heritage, and creating a space where storytelling, music, and fashion unite. It’s a moment for Dominicans, both at home and abroad, to embrace and celebrate who we are.” This event is proudly supported by The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce , Optishop, My kitchen By Anna WindtiThe Progressive Mind. Look out for giveaways, prizes, andspecial surprises as we count down to the runway and join us as we bring Dominica’s Story to Life—again!

IsraAID Dominica donated a drone equipped with a thermal camera to the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), marking a significant step forward in Dominica’s disaster preparedness and response efforts. The handover reinforces the country’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve search and rescue operations in challenging environments. This drone will provide ODM with enhanced aerial surveillance capabilities, particularly in disaster situations where rapid assessments and real-time data are crucial. The thermal imaging function will allow for improved detection in low-visibility conditions, increasing the efficiency of search and rescue missions. Following the handover, key stakeholders, including members of district disaster committees and the fire and ambulance services, participated in a specialized two-day training aimed at expanding their technical knowledge of drone technology. The training covered critical topics such as: • Basics of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) • UAV Safety Protocols • UAV Legislation and Legal Regulations • General Operating Procedures • Hands-on Flight Maneuvers • Drone as a First Responder • UAV Fleet Maintenance and Management By equipping ODM with advanced technology and providing hands-on training, IsraAID is strengthening the capacity of local disaster response teams, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively in times of crisis. IsraAID remains committed to working with national agencies and local partners to enhance Dominica’s resilience against disasters, ensuring communities are better prepared and supported in emergency situations.

With just a little under three months before the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) must take urgent action to prepare for climate-related displacement and migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and partners are calling on media and stakeholders to share the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices cards available on Trello to enhance preparedness and response efforts. The Caribbean faces increasing threats from hurricanes, floods, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts. These environmental shocks not only disrupt economies but also exacerbate socio-economic vulnerabilities, leading to internal and cross-border displacement. As SIDS work to enhance their disaster response mechanisms, it is essential to mainstream human mobility and human security into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and planning. This call to action aligns with the upcoming regional workshop, Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward, to be held in Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 25-26, 2025. This workshop will bring together government officials, policymakers, and regional stakeholders to strengthen the integration of human mobility considerations into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies. Why the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocols Matter? The Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards provide essential guidance for Caribbean nations to manage migration and displacement effectively in the face of climate-induced disasters. By ensuring that communities, policymakers, and responders are equipped with standardized protocols, SIDS can improve national and regional coordination, protect displaced populations, and build resilience. Key Workshop Objectives The workshop, organized by IOM with funding from the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) and the French-funded project on Environmental Migration and Disaster Displacement, will focus on: • Assessing progress in incorporating human mobility into Caribbean climate policies. • Training stakeholders in the application of the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement, and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool. Identifying policy gaps and opportunities to enhance disaster and climate mobility strategies. • Sharing best practices to ensure the dignity, safety, and livelihoods of displaced populations. • Strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships for regional collaboration. • Discussing climate finance mechanisms to address funding gaps for displacement, migration, and planned relocation. Call to Action Media and stakeholders are urged to share and amplify the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards from Trello across platforms, ensuring that the Caribbean community is well-prepared for the upcoming hurricane season. By integrating human mobility considerations through the human security approach into climate and disaster risk reduction policies, we can collectively strengthen the region’s resilience and disaster response. For more information about the workshop and how to access the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices, please visit https://www.iom.int/countries/dominica where the complete protocol reports live.

The Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Hon. Anthony Samora Charles, has declared his full support for the Government of Dominica’s Electoral Reform Bills, which were presented for their second and third readings in Parliament on Wednesday."I stand for this bill to be passed, because we have to start somewhere. We have to give and take and this is not about political parties showing how strong they are or the government flexing their muscles. This is about democracy,” he stated. “We need to work together, simple.” He added. The Government introduced three key pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral system: the Registration of Electors Bill & Regulations (2024), the House of Assembly (Elections) & Registration Bill (2024), and the Electoral Commission Bill (2024).These measures are designed to enhance electoral integrity, increase transparency and modernise voting procedures in line with international best practices. Among new measures, the Registration of Electors Act provides for the introduction of mandatory voter confirmation within a 12-month period, requiring individuals to present valid documentation for verification. Additionally, Voter Identification Cards will be issued, incorporating key identifying information such as a photograph and advanced security features.

The Government of Dominica wishes to clarify that it has not received any official communication from the United States regarding a draft list of 43 countries recommended for visa restrictions. Following media reports indicating that Dominica is on a "Yellow" list and will be given 60 days to address certain concerns, the Government has instructed its Ambassador to the United States, based in Washington, D.C., to make the necessary inquiries seeking clarification. Dominica values its longstanding and cordial relationship with the United States and is committed to strengthening this partnership. The Government of Dominica will remain actively engaged in this matter and provide more information as it becomes available.

The Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) is making significant progress toward completing the electricity rate review as it prepares for a final stakeholder consultation. The Commission held its first press conference of 2025 on Wednesday, March 12, providing a status update on the ongoing rate review for Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC). Executive Director of IRC, Justinn Kase informed the media that DOMLEC has submitted its Cost-of-Service Study and Rate Proposal for the Commission’s review. “So far, the IRC has completed a detailed evaluation of DOMLEC’s depreciation of fixed assets, rate of return for investors, revenue requirement, and investment plan. As part of this review, we hosted three stakeholder consultations to ensure consumer voices were heard. From these consultations, we have finalized decisions on four critical tariff submissions by DOMLEC. "In addition, DOMLEC has submitted its two final documents for review—the Cost-of-Service Study and the Rate Proposal. Further public consultations will be required before any approval of new rates,” Mr. Kase explained. Key considerations during the tariff review include fuel costs, renewable energy integration, operational efficiencies, and the impact of inflation. Mr. Kase also emphasized that the IRC remains committed to protecting consumers from unnecessary rate increases, while ensuring DOMLEC can maintain and improve service reliability. The rate review process will conclude with the IRC’s final decisions on DOMLEC’s Cost-of- Service Study and Rate Proposal. Before that, the Commission will invite stakeholders to provide feedback. The dates for the consultation period will be announced later. …ENDS…

The Office of the Honorable Anthony Samora Charles, Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, is pleased to advise that Hon. Charles attended the high-level consultation on the establishment of a Regional Regulatory Body for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programmes, held on March 12, 2025, at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Agency Office in Roseau. The consultation, organized by the ECCB and the Interim Regulatory Commission (IRC), featured insightful presentations from key regional stakeholders, including Mr. Timothy N. J. Antoine, Governor of the ECCB. The initiative seeks to enhance the transparency, accountability, and sustainability of CBI programs across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) member states. Hon. Charles has expressed his strong support for the establishment of this regulatory body, emphasizing that the CBI Program remains a vital economic lifeline for ECCU member states. He believes that a well-regulated framework will further strengthen the integrity of the program, protect it from external threats, and mitigate risks associated with mismanagement and corruption. "The Citizenship by Investment Program has been instrumental in the economic resilience of our region, funding key national development projects and social initiatives. A unified regulatory body will not only ensure best practices but also preserve international confidence in our CBI programs," Hon. Charles states. As an advocate for responsible governance and economic sustainability, Hon. Charles reaffirmed his commitment to policies that foster growth and prosperity for the people of Dominica, particularly the Marigot Constituency. He also called on policymakers across party lines to support this initiative, recognizing its long-term benefits for regional development.

In a defiant stance that echoes the region's historical struggles for sovereignty, Caribbean leaders are pushing back against U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's threats to revoke visas from officials who support Cuba's medical missions program, with several prime ministers declaring they would rather forfeit their access to American soil than compromise healthcare for their citizens. "I will prefer to lose my US visa than to have 60 poor and working people die," declared St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, highlighting the critical dialysis treatments that Cuban doctors provide to patients in his nation.   His sentiment was swiftly echoed by Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who proclaimed at a recent public event to thunderous applause: "I just came back from California, and if I never go back there again in my life, I will ensure that the sovereignty of Trinidad and Tobago is known to its people and respected by all." The diplomatic standoff escalated last month when Rubio announced an expanded policy targeting what he termed Cuban "forced" labor, particularly focusing on the island nation's overseas medical missions. The policy would impose visa restrictions on current or former Cuban government officials "believed to be responsible for or involved in the Cuban labour export programme," which Rubio characterized as "exploitation of Cuban workers." For Caribbean nations, however, the Cuban medical partnership represents a lifeline. With approximately 24,180 Cuban doctors serving in 56 countries worldwide, their presence has been instrumental in bolstering healthcare systems throughout the region, especially in nations with limited medical infrastructure.   Jamaica's Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith emphasized this reality at a recent press briefing, noting that her island hosts more than 400 Cuban medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, biomedical engineers, and technicians whose services are "of importance to our health care system." Grenada's Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell highlighted the historical context of this support, stating, "We have a legitimate partnership with the government and people of Cuba who have over several decades provided support to the people of Grenada in the medical field." Acknowledging his nation's particular challenges in securing specialist doctors, Mitchell affirmed, "We will continue to support and defend the partnership." The controversy has prompted high-level diplomatic engagement, with foreign ministers from the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently meeting with U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America Mauricio Claver-Carone in Washington, D.C. Guyana's Foreign Minister Hugh Todd acknowledged the importance of the U.S. as "a strategic partner to CARICOM" but stressed that "this very important issue has to be dealt with at the level of heads of government."   Prime Minister Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago pointed out the hypocrisy in the U.S. position, recalling the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic: "Remember what happened during Covid when vaccines were required, and we couldn't buy one even though we had the money? And even where we paid the money, those we paid put us at the back of the line?" He went on to defend his nation's medical staffing practices, explaining that specialists from countries including India, the Philippines, and primarily Cuba are paid "top dollar—equal to local rates," yet his government is "now being accused of taking part in a programme where people are being exploited." According to Commissiong, these leaders responded by asserting their sovereignty: "We are sovereign independent nations, and we will decide for ourselves what nations we will have relations with." Commissiong characterized Rubio's current policy as "part of this continuing U.S. vendetta against Cuba," aimed at "regime change," and referenced a 1960 State Department memo by Deputy Assistant Secretary Lester Mallory, which allegedly acknowledged the popularity of Castro's revolution and proposed making "life uncomfortable for the people in Cuba" by undermining the government. Adding to the regional concerns, Commissiong highlighted that the United States has withdrawn its traditional assistance to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the regional arm of the World Health Organization upon which Caribbean nations depend heavily in matters of health policy etc. "The United States, having withdrawn itself from PAHO, will have a tremendous implication for all of us in the Caribbean, and you now turn around and say we must reject the much needed and critical health assistance being given to us by Cuba!" he remarked incredulously. Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has not remained silent on the matter, accusing Rubio of putting his "personal agenda" ahead of U.S. interests and describing the policy as an "unjustified aggressive measure." As this diplomatic tension unfolds, Caribbean leaders continue to prioritize their nations' healthcare needs and sovereign decision-making, demonstrating that regional solidarity and public health concerns outweigh the threat of U.S. visa restrictions. The stance of these leaders reflects a broader historical pattern of Caribbean resistance to external pressure, particularly when it threatens essential services for their citizens. Site: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/caricom-caribbean-leaders-stand-firm-against-us-visa-threats-over-cuban-medical-program

Discover Dominica Authority announces the launch of ‘Kool Escapes,’ a summer campaign positioning Dominica as the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The initiative will captivate travelers from North America, the United Kingdom, the French West Indies, France, the Commonwealth, and the wider Caribbean. Kool Escapes invites visitors to immerse themselves in Dominica’s breathtaking landscapes and rejuvenating waters, offering unmatched adventures in an unspoiled paradise. The campaign emphasizes Dominica’s Aqua Pillar, reinforcing the island’s reputation as the region's top diving and aquatic adventure destination. Whether diving into colorful marine ecosystems, snorkeling, whale watching, river tubing, kayaking, or exploring waterfalls, visitors will be surrounded by nature’s wonders. From family-friendly activities to group excursions and solo adventures, Dominica caters to all types of travelers, offering diverse experiences that ensure everyone finds their perfect escape. Exclusive travel packages include accommodation, dining, and guided tours, ensuring premium experiences at great value. Direct flights from Miami (American Airlines) and New York/New Jersey (United Airlines), as well as regional connections, make Dominica an easily accessible, adventure-packed getaway. “Dominica is an untapped gem just waiting to be discovered, and ‘Kool Escapes’ captures the true spirit of our island like never before,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority. “From the thrill of our world-class aquatic adventures to the peaceful sanctuary of our lush rainforests, this campaign highlights why Dominica is not just a destination, but the ultimate summer getaway for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and authenticity.” For more information on Kool Escapes’ exclusive deals and booking details, visit discoverdominica.com/en/kool-escapes and follow Discover Dominica on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Plus, find out why Dominica is one of the Best Places to Travel in 2025, according to BBC Travel. Read about it here: https://ww w.bbc.com/travel/article/20250115-the-25-best-places-to-travel-in-2025 .

Pauline John: A Woman’s Legacy in Farming As International Women's Day approaches, we celebrate the resilience and dedication of women in agriculture. One such woman is Pauline John-Denis, a seasoned farmer, from the community of Grand Bay, who has dedicated her life to working the land. Her story reflects both the challenges and triumphs of women in farming, shedding light on the evolution of agriculture and the vital role women continue to play in it. Pauline John-Denis has been farming since she was young, learning the trade from her father. “ I was going to school, but my father taught me,” she recalls. Farming was never just a job for her— it was a passion. “Did you always want to be a farmer?” she was asked. Without hesitation, she replied, “Always, always. I love farming. I don’t know why, but I love farming.” For John-Denis , farming is not just about making a profit but about feeding her family and ensuring sustainability. “My message to women: they must farm for their family,” she asserts. She believes that farming is an essential practice for self-sufficiency and survival. “For you to grow, you grow to eat or for money,” she says, emphasizing the dual role of agriculture in sustenance and economic empowerment. John-Denis takes immense pride in her crops, especially potatoes, dasheen, and plantains. “I love potatoes. I can boil potatoes with some milk. I put in milk with it, while crushing it, and then I can eat,” she shares with enthusiasm. Her connection to the land is evident in her commitment to growing nutritious food and maintaining agricultural traditions. Like many women in agriculture, John-Denis has faced significant challenges, including physical demands, economic hardships, and recovery from natural disasters. One of the biggest obstacles she encountered was rebuilding after a hurricane. “After the hurricane [Hurricane Maria 2017], it was dangerous because trees would fall. I had to pay somebody to clean up for me, clean them properly,” she recalls. Her resilience is evident in how she overcame these setbacks. Despite an injury to her knee, she continues to work the land. “I knocked it on my step to go downstairs. I went to the hospital, they gave me something to hold it up, and I keep working,” she says. Agriculture has transformed significantly over the years, and John-Denis has witnessed these changes firsthand. She observes that fewer young people are interested in the trade. “Some people don’t want to work. They don’t want to make farming. They rather stay on the road” she says, lamenting the decline of farming among younger generations. She believes that younger individuals should appreciate the value of farming, not just for economic gain but for self-reliance. “When your mother and your father are gone, what they showed you, you should have it in mind to do it,” she advises. Her words serve as a call to action for young people to embrace agriculture as a means of sustaining themselves and their communities. John-Denis has a powerful message for women: “You must farm for your family.” She believes that women should take pride in cultivating the land. Pauline John-Denis’s call for women to embrace farming extends beyond traditional crops. Women across various sectors of agriculture are proving their resilience and innovation. One such woman is Charlene Xavier, a poultry farmer who has turned a small venture into a thriving business. Charlene Xavier “Poultry Farmer” As a poultry farmer and the owner of Allen’s Poultry in the Roseau Valley, her journey, which began with just 40 layers as a small venture, has now expanded to 300 birds, with aspirations for even greater growth. She took over the business from her stepfather who asked her to keep the name, his legacy. Xavier’s day begins before the sun rises. At 6:15 AM, she visits her farm, ensuring that the lights, which are left on at night to aid production, are in place. “When I wake up, I visit the farm about 6:15am then I put up the lights, because I leave lights on at nights for them. This helps with their production. I check around the farm. I have two cages, white layers and brown layers. I feed them, give them water, whatever they need.” Collecting eggs is another crucial part of her routine, ensuring that production remains steady. By midday, she repeats the process to maintain the well-being of her flock. As dusk approaches, she returns to the farm to turn the lights back on and prepare for the next cycle. With the support of a small but efficient team, she maintains a clean and organized farm, ensuring the highest standards of egg production. Like many farmers, Xavier faces significant challenges in her work. One of the most persistent issues is her chickens pecking at their own eggs, which leads to loss of productivity. To counter this, she ensures that egg boxes are well-cushioned with shavings, minimizing the chances of eggs cracking and deterring the birds from pecking at them. Another major concern for Xavier and other poultry farmers is the potential threat of avian influenza, which has been affecting poultry farms in the United States. Financial challenges also remain a hurdle, as scaling up production requires significant investment. Despite these challenges, Xavier continues to push forward, proving that with resilience and strategic problem-solving, women in agriculture can overcome barriers and thrive. Xavier is committed to sustainability and efficiency in her farm operations. She uses energy-saving lighting at night to enhance productivity while reducing electricity costs. To optimize feeding, she utilizes guttering systems, ensuring that food and water are evenly distributed. Additionally, she engages in waste recycling by selling poultry manure to other farmers, promoting a circular economy within the agricultural sector. Zethra Baron “Breaking Barriers in the Blue Economy” In the ever-evolving landscape of the blue economy, one name stands out in Dominica: Zethra Baron. A fisheries liaison officer with the Ministry of Agriculture, Blue, and Green Economy, and the visionary entrepreneur behind Seafood Mistress, Baron is making waves in a traditionally male-dominated subsector. For women venturing into ocean-based industries, Baron’s message is clear—keep pushing, keep breaking barriers, and, most importantly, build alliances with other women. “To my fellow sisters in ocean-based industries, my advice to you is to keep pushing. Keep breaking those areas. Keep partnering with sisters, both nationally, internationally, and regionally. They are the ones who can be your mentors, the best ones at that,” she shared. Despite the challenges women face in these industries—financial constraints, gender biases, and operational hurdles—Baron’s journey proves that success is possible with determination, mentorship, and support systems. “I registered Seafood Mistress in 2020 and launched operations in 2022. It wasn’t a walk in the park,” she admitted. “You have all those challenges, but I’m here to tell you that you can. If you stick to your goal, have discipline, and maintain your vision, you will succeed.” As a fisheries liaison officer, Baron understands the complexities of policy and regulation in the blue economy. She stresses the importance of community engagement, particularly in coastal areas, to ensure sustainability efforts are both understood and adhered to. “Policy and regulation can only work effectively if everyone is considered, especially persons within coastal communities. Communication is key—if people don’t know what the policies are, how can they abide by them?” Beyond her governmental role, Baron integrates sustainability into her business model. Seafood Mistress prioritizes sourcing from fishers who use sustainable practices and aims to transition to eco-friendly packaging and renewable energy solutions. “The goal is to have full eco-friendly packaging and operate on solar electricity. Economic growth and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand,” she affirmed. A key takeaway from Baron’s journey is the necessity for women to uplift and support each other. “I want to commend sisters like myself who continue to work in male-dominated sectors, encourage them to keep fighting, and to be a support and strength to other sisters like me and those to come.” Her advocacy extends beyond business and policy; she actively engages with schools, educating young students on marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices. Through these initiatives, she hopes to inspire the next generation of women in the blue economy. Just as Baron is committed to empowering the next generation in the blue economy, Callister Sango is reshaping the agricultural sector through networking and innovation. Through her company, Agrivertise, Sango has created a platform that bridges the gap between farmers and buyers, ensuring that local producers—especially women—have greater access to markets and opportunities. Callister Sango: “Empowering Women in Agriculture Through Agrivertise” Growing up in the farming community of Penville, Callister Sango was exposed to agriculture from an early age. Farming was not just an occupation for the people in her village—it was a way of life. When she attended college and explored her career options, she gravitated toward agriculture, seeing it as a field with vast opportunities beyond traditional roles. "I did not want to settle for just administrative work. I felt like I was more than that, and agriculture challenged me in ways that excited me," Sango explains. During her studies, she discovered a strong interest in the sales and marketing aspect of agriculture. This passion led to her field research project, where she investigated the challenges that farmers faced in accessing markets. What she found was a gap in the system—farmers struggled to connect with buyers, often missing out on potential revenue. Seeing an opportunity to solve this issue, Sango launched Agrivertise, an online agricultural marketplace dedicated to making these connections seamless. Agrivertise provides a platform where farmers can list their available products, and buyers can easily find and purchase what they need. "Our women farmers are very busy. Many of them juggle multiple responsibilities, including managing their homes and sometimes working additional jobs. Agrivertise makes it easier for them to sell their produce without having to spend extra time searching for buyers," Sango says. Through the platform, buyers can see what products available and place orders, allowing farmers to focus on their core work—growing and harvesting crops. The convenience Agrivertise offers is particularly beneficial for women, who often bear the burden of unpaid labor alongside their farming duties. One of the biggest challenges in the agricultural sector is the integration of technology. While digital platforms can enhance efficiency, many farmers are unfamiliar with online tools or do not have time to engage with complex systems. Sango recognized this and took a simplified approach. "The key is to make things easy for the farmers, not for us. If they find it easier to take a phone call rather than sign up for an app, then we accommodate that. We meet them where they are," she explains. By adopting a user-friendly approach, Agrivertise ensures that even the busiest farmers can benefit from its services. The company also prioritizes the sale of value-added products like castor oil and coconut oil, which are less perishable than fresh produce, reducing the pressure on farmers to make quick sales. Like many women entrepreneurs, Sango has faced obstacles, particularly in securing financial and human resources. "Agriculture is a broad sector, and connecting with farmers who are often in remote areas is challenging. Without proper funding and a dedicated team, it's tough to scale up," she admits. Despite these challenges, Agrivertise has made a significant impact, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Working with four main farmers’ groups across Dominica, Sango helped farmers use her platform to sell their produce at a time when traditional markets were disrupted. "It was one of my proudest moments—seeing farmers get calls and orders just from posting their products on my Facebook page. My own mother, who is a vendor, used the platform to source produce from women farmers," she shares. Women play a crucial role in food production, yet they often face barriers to land ownership, financing, and market access. "Agriculture is the foundation of everything—our food, clothing, and shelter. We cannot afford to overlook the contributions of women in this sector. They need better access to resources and platforms that simplify their work and boost their earnings," she emphasizes. Sango’s message to women in agriculture is one of perseverance and innovation: "Do not give up on this sector. Modernize your approach and find ways to make agriculture work for today’s economy. Stay focused, and don’t be afraid to explore technology to make your business more efficient." Through Agrivertise, Sango is not just building a business—she is fostering a movement that empowers women, strengthens communities, and ensures that agriculture remains a sustainable and rewarding field fir generations to come.

The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence will be hosting a Church Service in recognition of Commonwealth Day 2025. This year’s event will be celebrated on Monday, March 10, at the Roseau Cathedral of Our Lady of Fair Haven (St Gerard’s Hall) commencing at 10:00am. The event is celebrated under the theme, ‘Together We Thrive’. During the celebrations, Her Excellency the President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Mrs. Sylvanie Burton will deliver the Commonwealth Day Message from His Majesty, King Charles 111. As customary, the event will host several high level guests including members of Cabinet and Parliamentarians. The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence invites the media to provide coverage of this event.

The Dominica Electricity Company Ltd. (DOMLEC) has once again demonstrated its commitment to culture and community by sponsoring several key events during the 2025 Carnival Season. Through these sponsorships, DOMLEC is actively supporting the preservation and celebration of Dominica’s rich traditions and cultural heritage that come to fore during the Real Mas- Mas Domnik.   Support to pageantry The company has over the years lent its support to the Carnival Princess Show and Miss Teen Dominica pageants and has returned in 2025 to once more make financial contributions to the respective organisers.  The Rotaract Club of Roseau’s annual Carnival Princess Show, took place on Sunday 16th February, 2025 featuring five talented contestants from primary schools across the island.  DOMLEC extends congratulations to Dannica Newton of the Jones Beaupierre Primary School who emerged winner.   The 46th edition of the Miss Teen Dominica Pageant, organised by the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre led by former Chief Cultural Officer, Raymond Lawrence, showcased the talents of young women from various high schools on the island. This year, history was made with a representative from the Dominica Girl Guides Association, who won the crown on Sunday 23rd February. Congrats to Miss Gabrielle Esprit and kudos to the other participants for making the brave move to be on the pageantry stage and perform in front of a large audience. Pageantry helps young women to build confidence in public speaking, in finding social causes they are passionate about and in building their self- discipline. DOMLEC is proud to play a role in the success of these shows.   Keeping Calypso alive As part of its cultural sponsorship efforts, DOMLEC contributed to the annual Stardom Calypso Tent and made a financial contribution to the Dominica Calypso Association as well. Stardom Tent plays a significant role in the festive season as a platform for calypsonians preparing for the Grand Calypso Finals to fine tune their presentation. It is also an outlet for those who did not qualify to still showcase their songs.  The weekly event, held on Wednesdays, includes themed nights such as “Celebrity Night” and “Sponsor Night,” where notable personalities and representatives from sponsoring organisations take the stage, respectively. DOMLEC’s Public Relations Officer, Ayeola George, represented the company on Sponsor Night, performing in full lineman gear, including a hard hat, boots, and a reflective vest.   The Calypso season is an integral part of the Carnival experience, drawing large crowds for the Eliminations, Quarter-Finals, and Semi-Finals as fans cheer on their favorite calypsonians. DOMLEC is in full support of the continuity and development of the Calypso artform, expressed through this year’s contribution to the umbrella organisation. The highly anticipated Calypso Grand Finals will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025.   Other activities DOMLEC also made a financial contribution to the Rotary Club of Dominica, organisers of the highly anticipated ‘Souce and Punch’ event, set for Dimanche Gras (March 2) at Zaman Park in Mahaut. Proceeds from the annual fete will go towards community projects and the maintenance of the park.   Though not a fully carnival event, the Inter-Secondary Schools Debate Competition was once again supported by DOMLEC. This year the second round included robustly debated Carnival-related topics. DOMLEC is fully committed to supporting education initiatives that contribute to the development of our youth.   A Commitment to Culture and Progress DOMLEC’s General Manager, Dwayne Cenac, expressed his enthusiasm for the company’s involvement in Carnival, an annual celebration that unites Dominicans from all walks of life. “I am quite happy that DOMLEC is making these contributions to the culture of Dominica. Carnival is a time of celebration, togetherness, and tradition. I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Carnival,” Cenac said.   While DOMLEC has faced capacity challenges over the past two years, 2025 is set to be a year of progress, with the commissioning of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and new 4.8MW generation units at the Fond Cole power plant. These initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing reliability while continuing to support Dominica’s cultural landscape.   DOMLEC remains dedicated to being an integral part of the community, not only by powering the nation but also by fostering cultural and social growth. -end-