​Caribbean officials and their international partners convened this week to discuss hurricane preparedness in anticipation of what is predicted to be the worst hurricane season on record in 2024.
 
Seventy representatives from regional & national disaster management agencies, chambers of commerce, international organizations, and multinational companies attended the three-day meeting. The event focused on "Building Public-Private Partnerships for Disaster Resilience in the Caribbean."
 
A release from the UN Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean office stated that the meeting aimed to establish precise mechanisms for cooperation between the private sector, government, humanitarian & development partners at national and regional levels, before disasters strike.

Minister of Agriculture Roland Royer announced the signing of a contract for the construction of a new abattoir, costing $6.5 million, which is expected to be completed within 12 months. This investment is part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector. Additionally, Royer highlighted that 106 fisherfolk have received support under the Sustainable Fisheries Development Program.

​Minister of Agriculture, Roland Royer. 

​Mr. Phoenix Belfield, Manager of the Dominica Cooperative Societies League Ltd (DCSLL), has announced that Dominica will host this year's regional credit union summit from September 24th to 29th, 2024. The event is expected to attract between 250 to 300 regional credit union volunteers and representatives to the island for this significant occasion.

​Mr. Phoenix Belfield, Manager of the Dominica Cooperative Societies League Ltd (DCSLL).

​Global hunger was reported to be on a "dangerous" rising trajectory, necessitating not just economic policy measures but also strong political and social commitments to achieve a sustainable and food-secure world, said QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). He made these remarks at a high-level session during the Global Review of Aid for Trade hosted by the World Trade Organization in Geneva. QU emphasized that fair trade practices are crucial for promoting inclusive & equitable growth, noting that trade should inherently be complementary. Food security and agricultural trade were key topics in the breakout sessions of the 3-day Aid for Trade conference, with active participation from FAO officers.

​During Portsmouth Secondary School's graduation ceremony earlier today, Principal Daniel James commended parents for their unwavering support and guidance, which have equipped students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to advance to the next chapter of their lives after completing their secondary education. He emphasized that the graduates' achievements are a testament to the parents' relentless determination and profound impact on their children's lives.

James expressed his gratitude for the invaluable support from parents and teachers since he assumed his new role at Portsmouth Secondary School. He highlighted that their assistance made it easier to overcome challenges and celebrate successes.

​Portsmouth Secondary School Principal, Daniel James. 

​The Do-Nation Foundation, led by CEO Diane Felicien, is set to introduce two groundbreaking programs aimed at addressing critical social issues. The first initiative, Smart Worthy Ambitious Girls (SWAG), is a mentorship program designed to educate and promote literacy among girls aged 9-17 who are underserved by the current system. Recognizing the importance of paternal involvement, the NGO is also launching Fathers Rise, a program aimed at empowering fathers to become leaders in their communities. Both initiatives underscore the foundation's commitment to creating positive social change and improving the lives of individuals and families.

​Felicien emphasized that her NGO is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for children. She highlighted the importance of confidentiality, explaining that it is crucial for addressing children's issues effectively. Felicien also pointed out the need for children to feel comfortable and assured that their concerns are taken seriously. Additionally, she stressed the importance of teaching children independence, noting that this aspect is often neglected in the Caribbean.

​Do-Nation Foundation CEO, Diane Felicien. 

​Valarie Honore, CEO of the ‘I Have a Right Foundation’, announced that her NGO is also dedicated to empowering girls. She emphasized that the outdated notion of girls being "seen and not heard" is a thing of the past. Honore stressed the importance of girls speaking up and confidently voicing their opinions. The foundation aims to ensure that women no longer fear victimization for speaking out, knowing they have a robust support system behind them.

I Have a Right Foundation, Founder, Valarie Honore. 

Acting Chief of Police Davidson Valerie announced that over the past six months, the Police Force has concentrated on a community policing initiative to improve relationships and accessibility between the police and communities across Dominica. He made this statement to state-owned radio following his confirmation for a new six-month term as Acting Chief of Police.

Valerie also noted that the police have made several improvements, including the reintroduction of the Chief's Parade and Lecture, which he emphasized is crucial for the force's work.

​Acting Chief of Police Davidson Valerie.

​The world celebrates International MSME Day today, marked annually on 27thJune, and as declared by the United Nations, this day recognizes the crucial role of Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in global economic growth. MSMEs account for 90% of businesses, 70% of employment and 50% of GDP worldwide, which plays a vital role in employment generation, poverty reduction and economic development, especially in developing countries.
 
Operating across various sectors, these businesses drive innovation and local development. The UN emphasizes a human-centered approach for sustainable transformation, promoting MSMEs as key to economic stability and growth, connecting entrepreneurs, and creating job opportunities.