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The Dominica SiFoCol Alumni Association (DSAA) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for its Community Social Impact Grant aimed at partnering with grassroots community organizations, youth groups and nonprofits to undertake impactful projects in Dominica. The DSAA Community Social Impact Program seeks to support initiatives that address pressing social issues, promote community development, and foster positive change in various sectors including education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and marginalized populations including but not limited to elderly, women, children, persons with disabilities, and indigenous groups. Partners Eligibility: Registered non-profit organizations, community groups, and youth groups operating in Dominica. Focus Areas: Projects must align with DSAA's mission and focus on areas such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and marginalized populations. "We are thrilled to launch our Community Social Impact Program to empower local organizations and nonprofits in driving meaningful change within their communities," said Mr. Paul Philip, Chairperson of DSAA’s Reunion Committee and White Sunset Charity Event." This program forms part of our Annual White Sunset Charity Event and is aimed at supporting programs and projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and a clear commitment to improving the lives of Dominicans. How to apply: Request an Application Package: To obtain an application package, please send an email to dominicasifocol@gmail.com with the subject line "Your Organization Name + Request for Community Social Impact Grant Package." Submission Deadline: The submission deadline is Friday, May 24th at 23:59 (GMT-4). Applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered. Submit Your Proposal: Proposals should be submitted electronically to dominicasifocol@gmail.com. Ensure that your proposal includes all required documents and uses the designated application form provided in the application package. Project Completion Deadline: All projects must be completed between November 2024 and April 30th 2025. Required Documents: Proposals must include the designated application form and the required budget document. Only proposals that meet these requirements will be considered for partnership funding. Budget and Funding information: Grants may range from $2500.00 to $10,000 per project. Partner Contribution: The beneficiary organizations must be able to secure donations of at least 10% of the project budget (inclusive of in-kind contributions), demonstrating community support and resource mobilization efforts.

Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) is pleased to announce a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about athletics to join a free coaching course. This course aims to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified coaches and contribute to the development of athletics in Dominica. The coaching course, organized by the Dominica Athletics Association in collaboration with the Dominica Olympic Committee through the International Olympic Solidarity, will cover a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide participants with a solid foundation in coaching principles, athlete development, training methodologies, and sports psychology. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive certification and become eligible to join the esteemed cadre of coaches within the Dominica Athletics Association. Key Details: Course Title: Coaching for Athletics Excellence Start Date: May 27, 2024 Start Time : 8:00 PM Duration: 5 Months (Sessions are twice a month) Location: Virtual (Zoom) Cost: Free of charge Eligibility: Open to individuals of all backgrounds with a passion for athletics Requirements: Basic knowledge of Track & Field Certification: Participants will receive certification upon successful completion of the course How to Apply: Interested individuals are invited to apply for the coaching course by completing form in the following link https://forms.gle/NAiYBXoRm25apSaq8 or emailing dmf@worldathletics.org. Please note that spaces are limited, and applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Benefits of Joining: - Gain valuable coaching skills and knowledge - Contribute to the development of athletics in Dominica - Join a supportive community of coaches dedicated to excellence - Opportunities for career advancement within the Dominica Athletics Association "We are excited to offer this free coaching course as part of our commitment to nurturing talent and promoting excellence in athletics," said Brendan Williams, President of the Dominica Athletics Association. "We encourage individuals passionate about athletics to seize this opportunity to become certified coaches and make a positive impact on the future of our sport." For more information and to apply for the coaching course, please contact +1-767-276-0663 or email msg@worldathletics.org Join us in shaping the future of athletics in Dominica!

Ambassador Dr. Andre Thomas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of holding companies Upturn Funds Caribbean and Pleion Group Inc., has confirmed that Connect Caribe, a private sector-led regional ferry service, is on track to begin operations by September of this year. Thomas revealed that the initiative is ahead of schedule and has partnered with Jampro, a shipping company based in the United Arab Emirates, to progress to the next phase of development. Speaking to the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation, Ambassador Dr. Andre Thomas stated that Connect Caribe will collaborate with Jampro to acquire vessels suitable for Caribbean waters. He expressed confidence that the first set of ships will soon be en route to the region, with a target of deploying 10 vessels to serve various routes, including Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Barbados and Suriname. Launched in January of this year, Connect Caribe aims to revolutionize the transportation industry with its ferry services. The three vessels will have a combined capacity to transport up to 8,000 passengers, as well as cargo, manufactured goods, and produce, providing a vital link between Caribbean nations.

The Government of Dominica is pleased to announce that in accordance with section 51 of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, it has, today, the 15th day of May 2024, provided the Electoral Commission with copies of the electoral modernisation legislation proposed as part of the electoral reform process in Dominica. The submission to the Electoral Commission follows extensive public debates, discussions, written recommendations from individuals and entities, and prolonged government-initiated electoral reform consultation. Copies of the proposed legislation have also been provided to Her Excellency the President of Dominica and will be subsequently published on the government website and via other media for public review. Copies will also be forwarded to the Organization of American States (OAS), the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), the CARICOM and the Commonwealth Secretariat. The proposed legislation provided is as follows: 1. The Registration of Electors Act and Regulations 2024; 2. The House of Assembly (Elections) Act and Regulations 2024 (which incorporates the House of Assembly (Election Petition) Rules 2024; and 3. The Electoral Commission Act 2024. “We intend to have this finalized in the month of June so that all the necessary budgetary allocations can be made in the upcoming financial estimates in an effort to give the electoral commission not only the legislative mandate but also the financial resources required to advance the implementation of the electoral reform process. “We have made a commitment and we have kept that commitment. My hope is that we will appreciate that the draft bills address the fundamental concerns raised by certain sections of the public and also, we have taken note of the observations and recommendations of our international partners,” Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said. The Government is confident that the proposed drafts address the principal areas of immediate concern and will set Dominica on a firm path to comprehensive modernisation of the electoral process. -Ends-

Registration has opened for the Dominica Economic Revival Summit 2024, being spearheaded by the United Workers Party (UWP) and Electoral Reform Coalition (ERC). An Awards Dinner and Opening Ceremony on June 4 at 7 p.m. will be hosted as a precursor to the two-day summit. Nine entrepreneurs will be awarded in various categories for their economic contribution and entrepreneurial success. Mr. Phillip Nassief- a pioneer in the manufacturing and tourism sectors- will receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award. The evening’s keynote speaker is Mr. Darwin Telemacque, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority. The dress code is formal. Tickets can be purchased online or at the party’s office at 6 River Street, Roseau at a cost of EC$250.00 or US$95. The summit follows on June 5-6. Sessions on day one will focus on Agriculture, Tourism, and Manufacturing & Construction. Day two sessions will focus on Knowledge & Blue Economy, Sports, Music, Entertainment & Culture and Renewable Energy. A plenary session will culminate each day, in which participants are expected to review outcomes. The Dominica Economic Revival Summit will bring stakeholders together to develop strategies for the country’s economic advancement. The Jungle Bay Resort and Spa in Morne Acouma, Soufriere is the venue for both events. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to register by Friday, May 24th, 2024, due to limited space. Participants can register through this website https://www.da-econsummit.com/. The full schedule can be accessed here https://www.da-econsummit.com/workshop. For more information about the summit, please contact the Secretariat at daeconsummit@gmail.com/ Telephone: 1767-265-0928/Whatsapp: 1767-617-6482.

Former member of the United Workers Party (UWP), Attorney Joshua Francis, along with Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Anthony Charles, have publicly announced their affiliation with the recently established political entity, the United Progressive Party (UPP). Francis says that during the new party’s Delegates Conference, a leader will be elected. He underscored the UPP’s primary objective of advancing Dominica's development. Furthermore, Francis emphasized the party’s commitment to serving all Dominicans, including those residing abroad. Regarding his UWP membership, he confirmed his resignation, and expressed willingness to provide a written resignation if requested by the UWP executive committee. Meantime, Anthony Charles, has also confirmed his decision to help in forming the UPP. Recent PRESS RELEASE The United Progressive Party (UPP), birthed in response to a dire need for a viable change relating to the governance of the Commonwealth of Dominica, is delighted to announce ’its entry onto the political and social landscape of this island nation. The compelling need for the revitalization of our economy, the chronic deprivation of growth opportunities in both the private and public sectors, and the lack of access to proper healthcare by the general populace to name a few are all indicative of the need for urgent and immediate change. Through the emergence of the United Progressive Party, the electorate is being provided with a credible alternative to the existing political parties. It is indeed both a contemplative and exciting moment for all of us that the UPP has achieved “its full recognition, having been accorded national party status by the Chief Election Officer of Dominica on May 8, 2024. However, it is not just an achievement for UPP but also for the people of Dominica at large as we now seek to develop, build, and grow a strong and caring relationship with every Dominican. The founding members of this party have been very concerned about every aspect of life in Dominica, and are eager to gain the confidence and support of the nation as we strive to address and reverse the factors that have contributed to our nation’s overall decline, build on the positives and structure a new pathway to make Dominica the true Nature Island of the world where “its people will prosper in a most peaceful, responsible and thriving economic and social environment. We are grateful for the efforts of past and current administrations, including the opposition parties, in the development of our country, and will cooperate where necessary with all stakeholders as we leverage the support of all to forge a new and progressive direction under the banner of this trailblazing and innovative party, the United Progressive Party. Of note, the symbol of the UPP is the “bottle” with orange being “its official color. Its motto is “United for Progress”. Further information and an update on developments about this new party will be announced at our first Press Event scheduled for June 10, 2024.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, continues to be a significant public health concern in many parts of the world. In response to this growing threat, various countries have established initiatives to raise awareness and combat the spread of the disease. One such initiative is the observance of National Dengue Day, a day dedicated to educating the public about dengue prevention and control measures. What is Dengue Fever? Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, making dengue a major health issue in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, the Americas, and Africa. The symptoms of dengue fever can range from mild to severe and may include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening without prompt medical intervention. The Importance of National Dengue Day National Dengue Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the prevention and control of dengue fever. It provides an opportunity for governments, healthcare professionals, non-governmental organizations, and communities to come together and take concerted action against the disease. Through educational campaigns, public health initiatives, and community outreach programs, National Dengue Day aims to: Educate the Public: One of the primary objectives of National Dengue Day is to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of dengue fever, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. By raising awareness, individuals are better equipped to protect themselves and their families from the disease. Promote Prevention Measures: Prevention is key to reducing the transmission of dengue virus. National Dengue Day emphasizes the importance of measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and installing mosquito nets or screens to prevent mosquito bites. Encourage Community Engagement: National Dengue Day encourages communities to take an active role in dengue prevention and control efforts. This may include initiatives such as clean-up campaigns to remove stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, organizing educational workshops, and promoting community-based surveillance systems to monitor dengue activity. Advocate for Policy Change: National Dengue Day also provides an opportunity to advocate for policy changes and increased government funding for dengue control programs. By mobilizing public support and raising awareness among policymakers, efforts to combat dengue can be strengthened at the national and local levels. Taking Action Against Dengue As we observe National Dengue Day, it is essential to recognize that dengue fever is a preventable and controllable disease. By adopting simple yet effective measures, individuals and communities can contribute to reducing the burden of dengue and protecting public health. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your community from dengue fever: Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Regularly empty containers that collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and discarded tires, to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Use Insect Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing, especially during peak mosquito activity times. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes when outdoors, particularly in areas where dengue is endemic. Install Mosquito Screens: Use mosquito nets or screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering living spaces. Seek Medical Attention: If you develop symptoms of dengue fever, such as fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, or rash, seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and treatment. By working together and implementing comprehensive dengue prevention and control strategies, we can mitigate the impact of this disease and create healthier, safer communities for all. Let us use National Dengue Day as a catalyst for action and a reminder of the importance of protecting ourselves and our loved ones from the threat of dengue fever.

Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) is pleased to announce that the 2024 Tourism Service Excellence Awards nominations are now open. These awards aim to acknowledge and celebrate the relentless commitment and outstanding contributions of individuals, companies, and organizations within the tourism sector in Dominica. The 2024 Tourism Service Excellence Awards will honor outstanding contributions in the following categories: • Accommodation of the Year • Tour Operator of the Year • Tour Guide of the Year • Tourism Vendor of the Year • Tourism Taxi Service Provider of the Year • Community Tourism Development • Sustainable Development To ensure high standards of excellence across the board, only providers certified by the Nature Island Standards of Excellence (NISE) will be eligible for nominations. The DDA encourages the public, tourism stakeholders, and patrons of Dominica’s tourism industry to nominate their peers, colleagues, or even themselves for their contributions to the elevation of the island’s tourism sector. Nominations can be submitted through DDA’s online portal at www.discoverdominica.com. The deadline for nominations is set for Friday, May 17, 2024. The Discover Dominica Authority is committed to fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition within Dominica’s tourism industry, and these awards serve as an integral part of that mission. By celebrating the exceptional efforts of those who go above and beyond to advance tourism in Dominica, the Authority aims to inspire continued excellence and innovation in this vital sector. For more information on the nomination process, award categories, and eligibility criteria, please email tourism@dominica.dm or call 767-255-8221.

Roland Royer, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy of Dominica, and Didacus Jules, Director General of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), met with the Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Manuel Otero, to discuss joint actions designed to promote climate resilience in agrifood systems across the Caribbean countries. During a visit to IICA Headquarters in Costa Rica, they highlighted the urgent need to institute adaptable agricultural systems in the Caribbean capable of thriving despite constantly evolving climate challenges. They emphasized the importance of technological innovation, the inclusion of young people in agricultural production, and the formulation of sound trade policies to support food self-sufficiency. Minister Royer shared Dominica’s experience and underscored the need to use natural resources more sustainably to ensure food security and improve agricultural production in his country. He also highlighted his nation’s continuing efforts to promote economic and agricultural resilience, particularly in the wake of devastating natural disasters. The OECS Director General emphasized the need to find solutions to guarantee food security in the region. He stressed the importance of developing a strategy aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on external supply chains. Dominica’s Minister of Agriculture and the OECS Director General  pointed up the collaborative efforts with IICA as an essential tool for addressing food security challenges in the Caribbean region. IICA Director General Manuel Otero pledged to continue working closely with the countries concerned to promote agricultural innovation and climate resilience.

Republic Bank Barbados is preparing to welcome its inaugural female Managing Director come July 4. Anthony Clerk, with 42 years of service within the Republic Bank Group and serving as Managing Director since 2017, will retire. Stepping into his shoes is Carlene Seudat, a seasoned banker boasting over two decades of experience in Risk Management and Corporate Banking. Clerk's tenure saw the initiation of various impactful projects, including the Bank's journey towards Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development. He oversaw the conversion of the Bank's Core Banking System and played a pivotal role in fostering Renewable Energy Products, including financing Barbados' inaugural Wind Farm. Additionally, he facilitated financing for affordable housing initiatives and bolstered the Bank's corporate portfolio. Seudat, currently serving as General Manager of the Shared Services Division at Republic Financial Holdings Group since 2020, brings with her a wealth of expertise. Her extensive managerial experience at Scotiabank, including roles such as Vice President of International Operations and General Manager of Risk Management, positions her well for her new role.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has disclosed a notable rise in dengue fever cases throughout the Caribbean amidst the observance of Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2024. PAHO data reveals that this year has seen over 6.5 million cases of dengue fever across the Americas, tripling the figures from the same period in 2023. In the English, Dutch, and French-speaking Caribbean alone, over 25,000 cases have been documented, exceeding half of last year's total. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa has cautioned about the lethal consequences of undiagnosed and untreated dengue, expressing concern over the region's alarming spike in cases. Dr. Barbosa emphasized the importance of Mosquito Awareness Week, running from May 6 to 12, in rallying collective efforts to eradicate breeding grounds, halt disease transmission, and safeguard communities, particularly ahead of and during the rainy season. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, responsible for transmitting dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, thrives in and around households, breeding in stagnant water-filled containers. These diseases, characterized by fever, joint pain, skin rashes, and in severe cases, fatality, pose significant health risks. Contributing factors to the mosquito's proliferation include rising temperatures, improper waste disposal, water-retaining containers, and weather anomalies. PAHO advocates for active participation in Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2024, viewing it as an opportunity to coordinate, educate, and engage in cleanup initiatives.

Thomas Letang, the General Secretary of the Public Service Union (DPSU), expressed concerns regarding the contemporary challenges facing the union during his address at the 12th Biennial Delegates Conference. He emphasized ongoing issues within public service employment, highlighting the politicization of the system and its adverse effects on various aspects, such as recommendations for acting permanent employment. He criticized the practice of replacing qualified public officers with less experienced individuals and raised concerns about prolonged acting appointments without official appointments. Letang reiterated the union's stance as independent from political affiliations, focusing on issue advocacy and opposition when necessary. Additionally, he highlighted instances where individuals are unaware of their employment rights, stressing the importance of understanding and asserting these rights. President Steve Joseph echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for union members to educate themselves about their rights and actively advocate for them. He underscored the role of unions in protecting workers' rights and promoting balance in society.