Search Results

Dominica is set to experience an electrifying evening of fast-paced action and corporate pride as the Next Level Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 reaches its highly anticipated semi-final stage! The tournament, which has brought together the island's top corporate teams in a thrilling display of sportsmanship and community, will culminate in two must-see matches on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 , at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . Match Lineup: 7:00 PM: Mitsubishi Motors vs. PetroCaribe Dominica Ltd 8:00 PM: Boyee Barber Shop vs. D-Treads Tyres, Inc. Fans can expect unparalleled energy, incredible skills, and fierce competition as these corporate teams battle it out for a coveted spot in the grand finale. Experience the Semi-Finals Live! Venue: Massacre Indoor Sports Complex Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM Live Stream: Watch live on DA Sports Vybez Facebook (@DASportsVYBEZ). This event promises more than just high-stakes futsal. Spectators will enjoy dynamic fan engagement, music, and live entertainment, making it a night for the whole family.

The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the debates are about to ignite as the first round of the 2025 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition begins on January 28.   Organised by Miss Trudy Christian, with support from the Dominica State College (DSC) Literary and Debating Society and other partners, this annual competition has become a hallmark event, showcasing the intellectual prowess and oratory skills of Dominica’s brightest young minds.     The week will open with a fiery debate centered on the topic: “Skills-based learning has become more relevant than formal academic training in meeting the economic needs of Dominica.” The Isaiah Thomas Secondary School (ITSS) will propose the motion, while the Portsmouth Secondary School (PSS) opposes. The St. Martin Secondary School (SMSS), the proposing side, will face off against the Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS), delving into the same issue.   The intensity continues on January 29, with debates tackling a deeply relevant and socially charged issue, “Adolescents who have reached the age of consent should not require parental consent to acquire reproductive and sexual health services in Dominica.”   The Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA) will debate in favour, while the Dominica Grammar School (DGS) takes the opposing stance. In a parallel match-up, the Pierre Charles Secondary School (PCSS) will propose, facing off against the Goodwill Secondary School (GSS), which will oppose.     The week’s debates will conclude on January 30 with the topic, “The recent body positivity movement is dangerous because it has led to the desensitization of adolescents to the health risks associated with obesity.” The Convent High School (CHS) will argue in favour of the motion, while the Wesley High School (WHS) presents the opposing view.     All debates will take place at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, beginning at 2:30 p.m.     The reigning champions, Orion Academy, will join the fray in February during the second round, with the semi-finals scheduled for March and the grand finals in April.   The competition, revitalised three years ago after a lengthy hiatus, according Ms Christian,  who is also the Interim President of the DSC, this has been instrumental in fostering critical thinking, research skills, and public speaking among Dominican students. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the participating schools for their enthusiasm and to the sponsors for their steadfast support, while encouraging the public to show up and support the youth.

The intensity of the Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 has reached fever pitch, with fans treated to two unforgettable quarterfinal clashes last night. Mitsubishi Motors and Petro Caribe emerged victorious, punching their tickets to the semi-finals. The action continues tonight as four more teams battle for the final two spots. Quarterfinal Results (January 23, 2025) Mitsubishi Motors 5 – 4 Oyo’s Wholesales In a nail-biting opener, Mitsubishi Motors (Group A, 1st Place) edged past Oyo’s Wholesales (Group D, 2nd Place). The standout performance came from Yannick George , who delivered a spectacular hat-trick. Goals from Zion Emmanuel and Brian Giraudel sealed the deal. Oyo’s Wholesales fought valiantly, with Odel Francis scoring twice and contributions from Jeffery Charles and McChris Morancie , but it wasn’t enough to overcome Mitsubishi’s relentless attack. Petro Caribe 13 – 5 Springfield Trading In the second quarterfinal, Petro Caribe (Group B, 1st Place) displayed unrelenting firepower, cruising past Springfield Trading (Group C, 2nd Place). The dynamic duo of Shannon Stoute and Jason Joseph each netted hat-tricks, while goals from Eiskim Williams , Doran Jervier , Shakim Baptist , Kyle Delsol , and Nyan Delsol added to their commanding win. Springfield Trading showed resilience with goals from Jaric Parker , Harris Charles , Rahyim Laronde , and Akeva Leblanc , but Petro Caribe proved unstoppable. Quarterfinal Showdowns Tonight (January 24, 2025) The action heats up at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex , where the remaining quarterfinals promise high-stakes drama: Boyee Barber Shop (Group D, 1st Place) vs. Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (Group A, 2nd Place) – 7:00 PM D-Treads Tyres Inc. (Group C, 1st Place) vs. Miles and Smiles Ballers (Group B, 2nd Place) – 8:00 PM Semi-Final Matchups Await The semi-finals are set for Sunday, January 26, 2025 , at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex . In the first matchup, Mitsubishi Motors will take on Petro Caribe at 7:00 PM . The winners of tonight’s games will clash in the second semi-final at 8:00 PM . Be Part of the Action Don’t miss a second of the excitement! Tickets are just $5 , and fans attending tonight’s games have a chance to win fantastic prizes from Perky’s Pizza during halftime . For those unable to make it in person, the matches will be streamed live on DA Sports Vybes , ensuring fans everywhere can cheer on their favorite teams. This tournament is brought to you by Joma, Creole Heartbeat, Perky’s Pizza, and DA Sports Vybes —proud sponsors of the Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025 .

In 2025, the Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) will conduct site visits to assess various electricity generation projects, as part of its mandate to ensure a reliable and adequate electricity supply. The goal of these projects is to build generation capacity to meet the increasing demand for energy nationally, while also reducing the Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.  The generation projects are: 1. 4.8-Megawatt (MW) Thermal Leased Generator:  A project that will boost generation capacity at DOMLEC’s Fond Cole Plant in the near term. According to DOMLEC, this will be commissioned by the end of February 2025. 2. 6-Megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Fond Cole near the existing thermal station: This projectis designed to help DOMLEC better integrate the 10MW Roseau Valley geothermal generation plant into the national grid. It can also assist with any loss of diesel or hydro generation units for maintaining system stability and reliability. The battery system also has black-start capability among other functions for use at the existing Fond Cole thermal power plant. 3. 10-Megawatt Geothermal Power Plant Project at Laudat:  This project is designed to bolster Dominica’s energy security, reduce electricity production costs, and significantly lower Dominica’s carbon footprint. Estimates suggest that the island’s geothermal potential could provide electrical power capacity up to 50-times the current peak demand of approximately 18 MW.  The Government of Dominica’s target, in accordance with United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, is for Dominica to become 'carbon neutral' by 2030, through 100% domestic renewable energy production. On Thursday, January 16th, 2025, a contingent of IRC personnel carried out its first planned site visit to DOMLEC’s Fond Cole Plant to observe progress on the installation of the lease 4.8-MW generator. DOMLEC’s General Manager, Dwayne Cenac and Generation Manager, Dave Stamp hosted and directed the tour for the IRC’s mission. Executive Director of the IRC, Justinn Kase expressed satisfaction with the project’s status, so far, and promised that the IRC will make recommendations to address concerns from its observations.  He added: “ We regulate the sector, [and] we must ensure DOMLEC has enough capacity; adheres to international safety standards [and] are ready to accommodate the new technology …  as well as ensure the proper operations and maintenance of the traditional generator sets, which run on fossil fuel. We want DOMLEC to ensure that their operation and maintenance is on track and therefore to avoid any extended forced outages as we have seen in the past.”

Triple Kay International, the trailblazing bouyon band that revolutionized Dominica's music scene, proudly marks 25 years of electrifying beats, cultural pride, and unforgettable performances. This milestone celebrates not only the band's journey but also their pivotal role in shaping the island’s rich bouyon music legacy. From humble beginnings in Laudat to dominating stages across the Caribbean and beyond, Triple Kay International has become a household name synonymous with innovation, unity, and the unbreakable rhythm of bouyon. The story of Triple Kay began in the late 1990s when a group of young dreamers tapped rhythms on school desks and sang melodies in church choirs, inspired by Dominica’s vibrant cultural heritage. Driven by a shared vision, they came together with a mission to create music that could move hearts, feet, and an entire nation. Their commitment, passion, and resilience transformed that vision into anthems that now define Dominica’s bouyon genre. Premiere Alert: "The Rhythms of Triple Kay– 25 Years of Bouyon Beats" To commemorate this momentous occasion, Cranberry TV invites fans, music lovers, and cultural enthusiasts to tune in to the premiere episode of The Rhythms of Triple Kay – 25 Years of Bouyon Beats. This documentary dives into the inspiring journey of Triple Kay International, from their humble beginnings to becoming a dominant force in Caribbean music. When: Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. Where: Cranberry TV’s YouTube Channel (link below) Join us as we explore the heart and soul of Triple Kay International—how their unique sound, innovative energy, and vibrant stage presence have carried Dominica's bouyon music across borders and generations. A Legacy of Vibrance and Unity Triple Kay International’s commitment to their roots and audience remains unwavering. Known for albums like “ Allo ," "Pressure," and "Colors," they have consistently elevated the bouyon sound, blending traditional rhythms with modern energy. Over the years, the band has amassed a loyal fan base, earning them accolades and performances on international stages, from major Caribbean carnivals to global music festivals. Looking Ahead As Triple Kay celebrates this incredible milestone, they remain committed to pushing the boundaries of bouyon music. The band promises even greater innovation, new hits, and more electrifying performances, continuing to serve as cultural ambassadors for Dominica. This 25-year celebration is more than an anniversary—it’s a testament to what passion, determination, and the love of music can achieve. Join the Celebration! https://www.youtube.com/@CranberryTV https://www.youtube.com/@TripleKayBand

The Work Online Dominica Cohort 5 Graduation celebrated the accomplishments of 60 graduates who successfully completed the programme. This transformative initiative not only equips participants with essential digital skills and tools but also highlights a unique aspect of this cohort where past participants took the lead in training and mentoring new participants, fostering a cycle of learning, empowerment, and sustainability. The program enabled 60 individuals with the skills to secure jobs in the global online workforce. The keynote address, delivered by Mr. Kevin Francis of Creativity in Motion, provided an inspirational perspective on digital transformation and the boundless opportunities awaiting those who embrace digital platforms. Highlighting “The Power of Knowledge Application,” Mr. Francis reminded participants, “Knowledge is powerful, but only when put into action. Without application, it remains just theoretical. Empowered with the tools for your success, I challenge each one of you to apply the knowledge you have been entrusted with. Do not let it sit on the shelf and gather dust. Do not keep it in your backpack for a rainy day. Do not keep it to yourself. The day is TODAY, and the time is NOW. Your lane is opening, and this is your opportunity!” A highlight of the ceremony was the heartfelt success stories from graduates who shared their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs throughout the programme. Their stories inspired attendees and reflected the transformative impact of the initiative. Participants also received tokens essential for their online work journey, boosting their professionalism and ability to perform their digital tasks. The mentors encouraged graduates to continue exploring opportunities in the digital world, urging them to leverage their newly acquired skills to build sustainable careers, allowing them to thrive in the global market, achieve financial freedom, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. IsraAID Dominica is proud to celebrate the achievements of Cohort 5 of the Work Online Dominica (WOD) program, a milestone that marks not only the success of the participants but also the continued growth and sustainability of the initiative. As Cohort 5 concludes, it reflects a pivotal chapter in the WOD journey. The program, which began with the vision of empowering vulnerable populations in Dominica with digital skills, has evolved into a sustainable initiative with far-reaching impact. One of the key elements of this sustainability has been the empowerment of past participants, who have been given the opportunity to serve as mentors and facilitators, providing guidance and support to new cohorts. "Seeing the transformation of our participants and witnessing how previous cohorts have taken ownership of this program fills us with immense pride. The ability to empower our graduates to lead and mentor others is a testament to the program's sustainability and its capacity to create a ripple effect within our communities," shared the IsraAID team. This unique approach ensures that the skills and knowledge gained through WOD continue to benefit individuals and their families long after the initial training. By equipping participants to succeed in the global digital economy, WOD also strengthens the foundation for resilience and economic growth in Dominica.

IsraAID Dominica is thrilled to announce the launch pilot of its innovative online learning software, Kay and Kelan Can Prepare for Different Hazards, an educational tool designed to teach young learners about disaster preparedness. This interactive module is based on the previously developed activity book of the same name and is specifically tailored to address flood preparedness in its initial phase. The pilot program, which begins this January, will span five weeks and engage Grade 4 students from eight schools across Dominica. It will test both the usability of the app and its effectiveness in enhancing disaster risk reduction (DRR) in education. The results of this pilot will help guide the improvement and expansion of this software. The participating schools include: • Roseau Primary School • Roosevelt Douglas School • Soufriere Primary School • Bagatelle Primary School • Castle Bruce Primary School • San Sauveur Primary School • Kelleb John Laurent Primary School • Colihaut Primary School To celebrate this significant endeavour, IsraAID will host a live game launch event, and we are delighted to invite members of the media for live coverage, an opportunity to ask questions and learn more. This event will highlight the software’s features, its integration into disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts, and the broader impact it aims to achieve. As part of this initiative, school principals will receive important tokens for their schools, including megaphones, fire extinguishers, and safety vests—reinforcing the commitment to equipping schools with practical tools for disaster management. IsraAID remains committed to supporting communities in becoming climate resilient through initiatives that span education, disaster preparedness, and sustainable livelihoods. By equipping individuals and communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need, IsraAID is helping pave the way for a more secure and sustainable future in Dominica.

Statement by the Revolutionary Government US President Donald Trump is charging against Cuba from the very first day and without any pretext. The decision to re-establish the harsh measures of economic warfare against Cuba, which his predecessor eliminated only days before, is a demonstration of the aggressiveness of US imperialism against the sovereignty, peace and well-being of the Cuban population. Among them is the inclusion of our country, once again, in the arbitrary list of states that supposedly sponsor terrorism, a designation that shows an absolute disregard for the truth. This is not surprising. The statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 14 January already warned: ‘that the government of that country could reverse the measures adopted today in the future, as has happened on other occasions and as a sign of the lack of legitimacy, ethics, consistency and reason in its conduct against Cuba’. It also stated that ‘US politicians do not usually stop to find justification...’. This is how they govern in that country. Trump has interpreted his rise to power as the coronation of an emperor. His ambition includes, just for starters, the conquest of Canada, the usurpation of Greenland, the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico and the dispossession of the Panamanians of their canal. The hegemonic Monroe Doctrine and Manifest Destiny, which were imposed on Latin America and the Caribbean by blood and fire, guide the new government team. The groups and politicians who have made aggression against Cuba a way of life, who have profited for decades from the anti-Cuban business, and who today share the new president's drunkenness, are associated with him. All bear a heavy responsibility for the country's difficult economic situation and for the increase in the flow of migration from Cuba to the United States. This new act of aggression by the US government against the Cuban people shows, once again, the true, cruel, ruthless objective of these and so many other measures of encirclement and asphyxiation, which are applied against Cuba for the purpose of domination. It is the reaction of impotence in the face of the inability to bend our will and in the face of the respect, sympathy and support that the Revolution commands among the peoples of the world. The economic blockade, its reinforcement and the new aggressive measures will continue to weigh, with a very damaging effect, on our economy, the standard of living, the potential for development and the legitimate dreams of justice and well-being of the Cuban people, as they have been in recent years. They will not divert us from our socialist course, from our determination to recover the economy, to foster the greatest solidarity, creativity, talent, spirit of work, and to defend freedom, independence, sovereignty and the privilege of building a future without foreign interference as an impregnable bastion. The Cuban people are grateful for the many expressions of support and solidarity received from all over the world, from governments, Cubans living abroad, parliaments, political, religious and social organisations and political figures in the United States and other countries. No one should be under any illusions. The Cuban people expressed themselves with clear determination and strength in the march of 20 December. Here the conviction prevails that CUBA WILL WIN. HOMELAND OR DEATH, WE WILL WIN. Havana, January 21, 2025. https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/face-imperialist-offensive-cuba-will-triumph-1

Jean Claude Millen’s journey from Haiti to Dominica exemplifies the power of human resilience and the positive impact of well-managed migration. His story illustrates how structured migration processes and a welcoming local culture can facilitate a smooth integration into a new society. Jean Claude’s decision to move to Dominica was born out of familial connections. Invited by his sister and cousin, he first arrived on the island not knowing much about it. However, the peace and safety of Dominica immediately resonated with him. “When I reached Dominica, I saw how people were moving in a country that was nice, quiet, and without violence,” he shared. “I chose to stay there.” His migration process began with his sister obtaining a visa for him, followed by navigating the local immigration system. He quickly extended his stay and applied for a residency permit, a process that involved acquiring valid documentation, including a passport, police clearance, and financial statements. Jean Claude’s ability to efficiently navigate these steps highlights the importance of having proper channels for migration to ensure smooth transitions. Like many migrants, Jean Claude faced initial challenges in a new country. His first impression of Dominica, with its lush greenery and winding roads, was one of awe and slight apprehension. However, he soon adjusted to the local culture, learning English through friends and work environments. Integration was not just about language but also about embracing local norms and contributing to society. Jean Claude worked various jobs, including construction, security, and gas station services, often taking on multiple roles simultaneously. His mindset was clear: “Anywhere I go, I try to fix myself. I don’t say, ‘I’ve never done this before, so I won’t do it.’ I work hard because I know I have to pay bills.” Jean Claude's entrepreneurial spirit also shone through as he established a barbershop with a local partner, reflecting his ability to create opportunities and sustain himself and his family in his adopted homeland. Family is at the heart of Jean Claude’s story. After settling in Dominica, he returned to Haiti following Hurricane Maria and later brought his two sons to live with him in 2018. Their integration into Dominica’s education system was not without hurdles, especially with language barriers, but they adapted over time with Jean Claude’s unwavering support. Beyond his immediate family, Jean Claude found a sense of belonging in the local community. He described Dominica as a “safe country” with welcoming people. “Everywhere I go, I have friends,” he said, emphasizing the strong relationships he has built across the island. Jean Claude’s experience underscores the importance of accessible and transparent migration processes. His journey through the immigration system was straightforward, but he acknowledged that recent changes have made the process more stringent for newcomers. Having clear and efficient systems benefits not only migrants but also the host country, ensuring that integration is smoother and misunderstandings are minimized. For Jean Claude, having valid permits and proper documentation allowed him to build a life in Dominica, contribute to the economy, and integrate seamlessly into society. Jean Claude’s story is a reminder of the valuable contributions migrants bring to their new homes. His resilience, work ethic, and commitment to community showcase how migration, when managed effectively, can enrich a country’s social and economic fabric. His entrepreneurial spirit have made a positive impact on his community. His story serves as an inspiration to other migrants who are seeking a better life and a reminder of the valuable contributions that migrants make to their new homes. As Dominica continues to host migrants from across the region, fostering a culture of inclusivity and maintaining robust migration systems will be crucial. Jean Claude’s journey exemplifies the potential for positive integration when migrants are met with opportunity and understanding. Dominica has not only become his home but also a place where he feels empowered to dream, work, and build a future for his family - a success story that echoes the aspirations of many migrants worldwide.

In a significant effort to support vulnerable populations, Faith, Hope and Love Fellowship Foundation has donated essential supplies to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, through the Department of Social Services. The substantial donation, valued at approximately eighty thousand Eastern Caribbean dollars (XCD$80,000.00), includes walkers, wheelchairs, kitchen and cleaning supplies, adult diapers, blood pressure monitors, glucometers, leg and back braces and other essentials. These supplies will directly benefit clients at the Dominica Infirmary, CHANCES, Community Hostel Inc., and several schools around the island. Pastor John Jno Finn and his wife Judith, both from Dominica, presented the donation on behalf of the foundation. “It is an honour for us as Faith, Hope and Love....a church that my wife and I started in Nashville. We always had a desire to help Dominica. This is not the first occasion. We have done it for churches and schools and just people who are in need,” Pastor Jno Finn indicated. “We are glad that we are able to help to provide these items...And I thank you all for working with the less abled people in Dominica...We want to thank you for giving us the opportunity. My wife is the key behind that. I am only the one doing the hard work. Everything I do, I bring my mother into it. My mother saw it, invested in me and my mother is not here to get a diaper so I want to give diapers to all [elderly] mothers who need diapers. And this is the major function that we perform as a ministry-to help those who need help.” The couple assured that this will not be the last time. Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, with special responsibility for Seniors Security, Children at Risk, Gender Affairs and the Differently Abled, Hon Dr Cassandra Williams, lauded the efforts of the foundation, noting that this act of generosity should inspire others. “Your contribution is not just a gift—it is a beacon of hope. It sends a powerful message to those in need that they are seen, valued, and supported. We understand that this donation represents not only a financial commitment but also an emotional one. It reflects your belief in a kinder, more compassionate world,” remarked Hon Dr Williams. “On behalf of our Ministry and all the vulnerable groups we are privileged to serve, I extend our deepest thanks to Faith, Hope and Love Fellowship Foundation for your act of generosity.” The handover ceremony, held at the Ministry of Health, was attended by representatives from the foundation, officials from the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary (Ag), Dr Laura Esprit, and representatives from Dominica Infirmary, among others, symbolizing a united effort to support the respective institutions and improve lives.

By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator and Advocate, Belize The Caribbean’s history is one of resilience and resistance, of small nations standing tall against seemingly impossible challenges. From the fight against colonial exploitation to the modern-day battle for climate justice, our region has long understood the stakes of decisions made by the powerful that affect the vulnerable. Now, as the world faces the prospect of deep sea mining, Caribbean nations like Belize are once again called on to defend our shared heritage. As we stand at this juncture, the question remains: Will we allow others to sell our ocean’s future for profit or will we prevent history from repeating itself? The Weight of History Historically, large, resource-rich nations and corporations have used their power to exploit resources with little regard for the consequences, leaving smaller, vulnerable nations to bear the brunt of environmental destruction. But this region has never been content to settle.  We led the charge on the 1.5 to Stay Alive movement, causing global climate negotiations to recognize the existential threat of climate change. Year after year, our leaders—CARICOM Heads of State—consistently call for adequate funding to cope with the impacts of the climate crisis. Leaders like The Bahamas Prime Minister, Hon. Phillip Davis , boldly declared that funding needed for small islands to cope with climate-related loss and damage is not charity—it is a climate justice issue. “This is about responsibility, accountability, and building a future where those who have polluted the most, contribute the most to cleaning up the mess.” Grenada’s Prime Minister, Hon. Dickon Mitchell , who called for “urgent and adequate climate financing,” reminds the world that the Caribbean has never been silent in the face of environmental injustice. Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis  affirms, “A sustainable future for [Small Island Developing States] (SIDS) demands more from us all!”  We’ve demanded action and continue to stand firm in the face of many challenges. Belize’s Ocean Conservation Efforts Belize, a country deeply connected to its marine environment, has taken significant strides towards ocean conservation. The moratorium on offshore drilling, championed by Oceana, was a landmark achievement. More recently, the innovative Blue Bond initiative and Project Finance for Permanence have demonstrated Belize's commitment to a sustainable blue economy. We have an opportunity to outline potential economic and environmental strategies that prioritize sustainability over exploitation. At a recent workshop  on deep-sea exploration and research, the International Seabed Authority (ISA)—the entity responsible for regulating deep-sea mining—called for Caribbean nations to take a leading role in ocean stewardship and innovation. As the ISA gears up for its 30th Session in Jamaica in March 2025, Caribbean countries like Belize and island nations have a critical opportunity to shape the future of the deep sea.  What are the Consequences of Inaction? Our Caribbean history is shaped by colonization, as our ancestors were brought from distant lands to sustain an economy that thrived on exploiting the region’s vast riches and resources—actions carried out with little regard for the cultures and ecosystems they disrupted. Today, we face a new kind of exploitation—one that threatens the very life support system of our planet: the ocean. From the pristine coral reefs of the Caribbean to the mysterious depths of the Pacific, the ocean is a vital part of our planet’s life support system. It regulates our climate, provides food and livelihoods for millions, and is home to countless species, many of which remain undiscovered. There is no doubt about how valuable the ocean is to our very existence. Is it truly in our best interest to exploit this precious resource without fully understanding the consequences? Should we not prioritize the long-term health of our ocean over short-term economic gains? Deep-sea mining hinges on the premise that, to save the planet, we need more metals to power a green transition. But can we not achieve this by embracing sustainable alternatives like innovative battery technologies, circular economies, and better recycling? At the recent COP29, we once again witnessed the lack of commitment from major polluters to address the climate crisis. You may have heard about the cautionary tale unfolding at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today. Vanuatu and Pacific leaders, supported by youth and civil society, are challenging major polluters to take responsibility for climate-induced harm. Could this case set a precedent for climate accountability and inspire similar legal actions against those who threaten not just our planet, but our very existence? We are at the beginning of a significant change that could reshape our world and everything we know about it. Mining corporations and their sponsoring states are not waiting for the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to finalize its mining code. This regulatory gap creates an environment where profit-driven decisions could bypass comprehensive environmental assessments. Once exploitation begins, the damage could be irreversible, undermining global biodiversity and climate goals. If mining corporations aren’t waiting for the mining codes, is deep-sea mining really about green energy, or is it a destructive industry driven by greed—one that threatens delicate ecosystems? Do we want to spend the next 20-30 years grappling with the fallout of deep-sea mining? Or will we act now to prevent the irreversible damage it could cause? We must not allow the mistakes of the past to be repeated. A Global Movement We’re not alone in this fight. Thirty-two countries , including the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, are calling for a precautionary pause, a moratorium, or even a ban on deep-sea mining. These nations demand that no mining proceed unless it can be proven safe and sustainable. Will Belize and the rest of the Caribbean join this growing wave of opposition? As island nations, our heritage is deeply connected with the ocean, but there are even deeper risks! To stand by while mining corporations plunder the deep would not only betray our marine allies but also undermine the global fight for environmental justice and our commitment to protecting 30% of the planet’s lands and ocean by 2030. In her speech at the COP26 World Leaders Summit, Prime Minister of Barbados, Hon. Mia Mottley , fearlessly yet rightly asked: “How many more voices and how many more pictures of people must we see on screens without being able to move or are we so blinded and hardened that we can no longer appreciate the cries of humanity?”  PHOTO CAPTIONS: Beautiful sargeant major, Belize. Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes Trumpet fish, Belize. Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes Banded boxer shrimp, Belize. Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes Nassau grouper, Belize. Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes

Courts Ready Finance is thrilled to announce the grand prize winner of the highly successful "Get More with Courts Ready Finance" promotion. After an exciting three-month campaign, which ran from September 25th to December 24th, Ms. Francisca Victor emerged as the lucky winner of the grand prize: a whopping $25,000. The promotion, which was designed to reward customers who shopped with Courts Ready Finance, saw participants enjoying an array of weekly prizes throughout the campaign period. Every week, lucky winners walked away with amazing prizes such as spa vouchers, grocery vouchers, dinner for two, day passes, home makeovers, and more. The grand prize draw, held on January 14th, resulted in Ms. Victor’s name being drawn as the winner of the grand prize of $25,000. On Saturday, January 18th, Courts Ready Finance surprised Ms. Victor with the incredible prize in a special presentation ceremony. "I can’t believe it," said Ms. Victor, visibly excited and overwhelmed. "This prize means so much to me, and I am beyond grateful to Courts Ready Finance for this incredible gift. It’s truly a life-changing moment!" Courts Ready Finance is proud to have offered such a rewarding experience for its valued customers and thanks everyone who participated in the campaign. The company continues to focus on providing its customers with innovative and rewarding solutions to help them achieve their dreams.