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Discover Dominica has announced the appointment of Ms. Andia M. Ravariere as the new Destination Marketing Manager, effective February 14, 2024. Ms. Ravariere, a devoted advocate of sustainable tourism development and a native of Colihaut, joins Discover Dominica with an impressive portfolio and a firm commitment to propelling the island's tourism industry forward. Ms. Ravariere's tenure in the industry is marked by significant achievements, including a key role in the successful reopening of Anguilla's tourism sector amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Her strategic approach to tourism policy and project development has led to an expansion of tourism offerings in Anguilla, aligning seamlessly with Discover Dominica's goals. "With her exceptional background and credentials, Ms. Ravariere embodies the vision and mission of Discover Dominica. Her passion for developing sustainable community-basedprograms aligns perfectly with our objectives of creating inclusive growth within our tourism sector," said Colin Piper, CEO of Discover Dominica. In her remarks, Ms. Ravariere expressed her vision for her new role: "I look forward to making productive and amicable connections with all tourism contributors on the island. One of my greatest passions is seizing opportunities to create sustainable livelihoods via sustainable tourism efforts. I am excited to work with our DDA team and the Ministry of Tourism to retarget dwindling markets and target new niche markets, driving international and regional traffic to Dominica." Ms. Ravariere's deep-rooted dedication to community engagement in tourism is reflected in her founding of the Colihaut Community Tourism Development non-profit group in 2013. The successful Colihaut Fish Lime event, born out of this initiative, has strengthened local industries and supported Dominica's women entrepreneurs, creating lasting economic benefits. Her academic foundation holds a master's degree in Tourism Development and Management and a bachelor’s degree in International Tourism Management from the University of the West Indies St. Augustine. Her tourism marketing and destination management skills further cement her capability to elevate Dominica as a standout destination in sustainable tourism. Discover Dominica is confident that under Ms. Ravariere's leadership, the organization will achieve new heights in destination marketing and sustainable tourism practices, contributing to the long-term prosperity of Dominica's economy and its people.

Catholic priest Fr. Herman Sharplis praised the late Ferdina Frampton for her remarkable capability to excel in various endeavors, acknowledging her flexibility and positive impact in any context. Today, in a solemn ceremony, radio personality Ferdina Frampton was laid to rest. Fr. Herman Sharplis, during the service, emphasized her legacy, pointing out that sh e inherited her broadcasting skills from her father, following in his footsteps. He lauded her as the most articulate broadcaster on the island and commended her adaptability and optimistic outlook, underscoring her talent for bringing positivity to every environment she found herself in.

UWP Leader, Dr. Thomson Fontaine, argues that after engaging with individuals from various sectors in Dominica, it is evident that ineffective economic governance has resulted in stagnant wages and notable adverse effects on different economic sectors. According to the politician, the people of Dominica are grappling with the repercussions of an inefficient economic management, leading to persistently low wages and detrimental impacts on their overall well-being. Dr. Fontaine underscored that these issues are widespread and significantly affect the daily lives of the populace. Furthermore, Dr. Fontaine highlighted that, owing to the unfavorable state of the country's economy, the United Workers Party, in collaboration with other partners and stakeholders, intends to host a substantial economic conference in June 2024 to address and deliberate on these pressing issues.

The Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Ltd (DOWASCO) has provided clarification in response to statements attributed to the company in a publication on DNO dated February 6, 2024, subsequent to a meeting held in the Kalinago Territory on January 31, 2024. During the meeting on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, representatives from DOWASCO, including General Manager Mr. Bernard Ettinoffe, along with Parliamentary representative for the Salybia constituency and Minister responsible for Kalinago Upliftment, Hon. Cozier Frederick, and Kalinago Chief Lorenzo Sanford, addressed residents of the Kalinago Territory. The discussions primarily focused on enhancing water provision in the territory, particularly concerning the main distribution pipeline along the main road. Challenges such as damage caused by heavy equipment and interruptions in service, particularly related to the international airport project and the Crapaud Hall Feeder Road, were addressed. In terms of financial matters, it was emphasized that customers in the Territory owe $1.9 million to DOWASCO. Mr. Ettinoffe encouraged residents to settle their accounts and assured them of DOWASCO's commitment to facilitating debt collections with the assistance of company personnel. Subsequent meetings are planned for individual hamlets to further discuss these issues and ensure effective follow-up.

The Right Honourable Patricia Scotland KC, Commonwealth Secretary-General, has revealed the theme for Commonwealth Day 2024 as 'One Resilient Common Future.' Scheduled for Monday, March 11th, Commonwealth Day will commence with a variety of events and activities, including faith and civic gatherings, debates, school assemblies, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural events. The celebrations of Commonwealth Day span across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific, and Europe. Reflecting on the significance of this year's theme, Secretary-General Scotland commented that each year, countries observe Commonwealth Day to acknowledge, celebrate, and strengthen their 56 member states, all of whom are dedicated to the Commonwealth Charter. She added that this year's theme emphasizes the collective strength that empowers countries to confront and overcome current challenges, emerging with resilience, paving the way for a future where wealth is not only widespread but genuinely equitable. Secretary-General Scotland also conveyed well wishes on behalf of the Commonwealth to His Majesty King Charles III, the Head of the Commonwealth, for a swift recovery.

The Chairman of the Dominica Agricultural Industrial and Development Bank (AID Bank), Martin Charles, has disclosed that the bank recorded a profit of $1.2 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. Charles emphasized the significance of maintaining focus and avoiding complacency, while also expressing the bank's continuous commitment to investing in various sectors of the country's economy. Charles acknowledged the challenges that the AID Bank still encounters with its non-performing portfolio. He indicated that in the upcoming financial year, the bank will undertake efforts to reduce the level of delinquency among customers.

Edison James, the former Prime Minister, who is currently on $50,000 bail, was detained in connection with an alleged incitement case involving former opposition leader Lennox Linton and current United Workers Party (UWP) leader Dr. Thomson Fontaine. In an interview with a local radio station , James shared his experience, noting that he spent approximately 20 minutes in holding before being released. The alleged incitement case has been transferred to the High Court for trial.

After fifteen years as CEO/Director of Tourism, Mr. Colin Piper will step down from his role at the Discover Dominica Authority, effective May 5th, 2024. Reflecting on his time as CEO/Director of Tourism, Mr. Piper remarked, "I am grateful for the support extended to me by the Board of Directors, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Government of Dominica throughout my 15-year tenure. The collaborative efforts and shared commitment to the success of our destination have resulted in numerous accomplishments, and I am confident that the Authority is well poised to achieve even greater milestones in the future." Mr. Piper has been pivotal in navigating the tourism sector through significant challenges, including natural disasters and global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. As Mr. Piper transitions out of his role, the Ministry of Tourism, The Discover Dominica Authority, and the Dominica Festivals Committee jointly extend their heartfelt appreciation for his years of dedicated service and significant contributions. They additionally convey their best wishes for his future pursuits. Further announcements regarding the transition of leadership within the Discover Dominica Authority will follow in due course.

Dominica is poised to receive the benefits of Global Environment Facility (GEF) approved projects led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), totaling $2.9 billion. With $294 million in direct financing and $2.6 billion in co-financing, these initiatives aim to revolutionize agrifood systems, combat hunger, and protect the environment. The projects will impact 4.2 million individuals globally, with a focus on land restoration, improvement of practices on millions of hectares, management of protected areas, mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, and elimination of hazardous agrochemicals. FAO Deputy Director-General Maria Helena Semedo has praised the projects for their potential to advance Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing collaborative efforts with GEF for global food security. Dominica joins 45 other countries in partnership with FAO to access GEF finance, covering areas such as food systems, oceans, and ecosystem restoration. Flagship initiatives, including the Food Systems Integrated Program (FSIP), direct $252 million in financing and $2.2 billion in co-financing to 32 countries, with Dominica set to benefit from projects promoting sustainable agrifood systems. Moreover, the Clean and Healthy Ocean Integrated Program focuses on reducing ocean pollution in nine ecosystems, including the Caribbean. Dominica's participation will contribute to marine resource management and ecosystem restoration. These FAO-led projects represent a substantial investment in Dominica's agriculture and environment sectors, aligning with national development priorities and global sustainability objectives.

Prominent cultural figure Leroy 'Wadix' Charles has called for a thorough assessment following Carnival, extending the evaluation beyond community-level activities to encompass a national review involving all stakeholders. He highlighted the importance of such an assessment covering various dimensions, including cultural, social, economic, and environmental aspects of Carnival. Charles also emphasized considering any challenges or areas for improvement identified during the festivities. Charles stressed the necessity for Dominicans to reclaim ownership and protect the island's indigenous traditions. He encouraged businesses and the media to participate in this effort, underscoring the importance of restoring Carnival to its roots.

Leroy 'Wadix' Charles, a well-known cultural figure, has expressed apprehensions about the improper use of songs during Carnival events, particularly when children are in attendance. His comments come in response to observations made during the 2024 Carnival festivities, where inappropriate songs were reportedly played in sections designated for children. Charles stressed the significance of entertainers being mindful of their audience and carefully choosing suitable content, particularly in settings tailored for younger participants. Additionally, Charles highlighted the ongoing dedication of the carnival and the 'Thunder Birds' group to celebrate and propagate Dominica's culture and traditions through the lively expression of calypso music.