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In the News

MOTORISTS WARNED OF MULTIPLE ACCIDENTS NEAR ROUNDABOUT IN ROAD TOWN

Motorists traversing the area near the roundabout in Road Town, Tortola, heading in the direction of Supa Valu Ltd. on Waterfront Drive, are being urged to exercise caution following confirmed reports of multiple accidents in the vicinity. While the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has yet to release an official statement regarding the incidents, … Continued

USVI’S CAMSEL CHARGED WITH UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF EXPLOSIVES IN TORTOLA

A 28-year-old man from St. Thomas, USVI, has been charged with Unlawful Possession of Explosives following an incident on the western end of Tortola during the early hours of Wednesday, January 15. The suspect, identified as Shamauri Camsel, was apprehended after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) intercepted a suspicious vehicle linked … Continued

RVIPF DETAINS 4 – NETS GUNS & AMMO IN CGB OPERATION

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) scored a significant victory in its fight against violent crime with the seizure of two firearms and several rounds of ammunition during a targeted operation in Cane Garden Bay. The operation, conducted during the early hours of Friday, January 24, 2025, also resulted in the detention of four … Continued

BVI WISHES U.S. WELL DESPITE RESERVATIONS ABOUT TRUMP

Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has voiced optimism that the newly sworn-in United States President Donald Trump will be able to bolster the United States’ economic strength, a critical factor for the Virgin Islands’ own prosperity. At a press conference on Thursday, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the BVI’s substantial economic reliance on the United States, … Continued

BALANCING PRIVACY AND TRANSPARENCY – PREMIER SPEAKS ON BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP ACCESS

Premier and Minister of Financial Services, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, has emphasized his government’s commitment to balancing transparency and privacy through its recent consultation on a proposed policy regarding access to the register of beneficial ownership. The initiative, launched last week, aims to strengthen the British Virgin Islands’ financial systems, align with international best … Continued

PENN CALLS FOR BETTER ALLOCATION OF UNSPENT BUDGET EXPENDITURES

Eighth District Representative Hon. Marlon Penn has proposed redirecting unspent budgetary funds toward direct economic investments, stating that there is a need for improved financial management in the British Virgin Islands. Speaking at a recent Opposition press conference, Penn highlighted the recurrent issue of unspent funds allocated for expenditure in 2023 and 2024, pointing to … Continued

‘A SIMPLE SWAB’ CERVICAL CANCER PAP SMEAR CAMPAIGN

WINBVI Ambassador and Mrs. British Virgin Islands 2022/2023, Dr. Arliene T. Penn is hosting her 4th cervical cancer Pap smear campaign. ‘A SIMPLE SWAB’ Campaign seeks to promote cervical health in our community by encouraging women to take charge of their health. Dr. Arliene T. Penn began by sharing her experience. Penn a cervical cancer … Continued

OPPOSITION ADVOCATES OPENING COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS TO PUBLIC SCRUTINY

Opposition members are advancing efforts to make House of Assembly committee proceedings public, with specific focus on opening Public Accounts Committee deliberations to public scrutiny. Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton endorsed the move toward transparency during a recent media inquiry from 284 Media, noting similar practices in other parliamentary systems. Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn revealed … Continued

DR. PICKERING LAUNCHES ‘WALK IN FAITH & MEDICINE’

Former Deputy Premier and Medical Physician Dr. Kedrick Pickering has officially launched his debut book, Walk in Faith & Medicine, at the Dr D Orlando Smith Hospital lobby on Wednesday, January 22. Already a best-seller, the book offers an intimate exploration of his medical journey intertwined with his faith from his medical career, particularly between … Continued

FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS TRUMP’S BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP ORDER

In a swift rebuke to United States President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda, a federal judge in Seattle blocked the enforcement of his executive order restricting automatic birthright citizenship, just days after it was signed on Monday. U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, an appointee of Republican former President Ronald Reagan, issued the temporary restraining order on … Continued

Local

PREMIER OUTLINES TRANSITION PLAN TO HAVE ORDER IN COUNCIL LIFTED

At a press conference earlier today, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley provided an update on the Virgin Islands’ progress in implementing the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry. He outlined the path towards governance reform, a process crucial to lifting the Order in Council that threatens to suspend the territory’s Constitution. Premier Wheatley recounted … Continued

OPPOSITION QUESTIONS PREMIER’S LEADERSHIP

Opposition legislator Hon. Myron Walwyn has criticized Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley’s leadership, suggesting the premier does not fully grasp the responsibilities of his role. Speaking at a press conference alongside the six members of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Walwyn condemned recent actions by the government that he described as exclusionary and dismissive. Walwyn … Continued

Regional

TOURIST SUES USVI PORT AUTHORITY

A Virginia couple is suing the USVI Port Authority and several contractors over a 2023 fall at Cyril E. King Airport that resulted in multiple surgeries, according reports from local press there. Timothy Fadool of Amherst, Virginia, claims he suffered severe injuries after falling on a poorly maintained pathway while following directions to the Hertz … Continued

SPACEX STARSHIP EXPLODES AND DISRUPTS FLIGHTS IN THE REGION

SpaceX’s latest Starship test flight ended in destruction Thursday after achieving a rare booster capture, marking another dramatic chapter in the development of the world’s largest rocket. The spacecraft, carrying 10 dummy satellites, broke apart approximately eight and a half minutes into flight after its engines shut down one by one during ascent. The last … Continued

USVI OFFICIALS PLEAD NOT GUILTY IN CORRUPTION CASE

Four high-ranking USVI officials, including current Sports Commissioner Calvert White, pleaded not guilty Friday to federal charges alleging they participated in separate bribery and fraud schemes involving government contracts. White appeared in District Court alongside former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez, former Budget Director Jenifer O’Neal, and government contractor Benjamin Hendricks. All four were released on … Continued

WHITE RESIGNS AMID BRIBERY ALLEGATIONS

USVI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White has resigned amid federal allegations of bribery and bid manipulation involving a $1.43 million security camera contract. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the resignation, naming Assistant Commissioner Vincent Roberts as acting head of the department. Federal prosecutors allege White demanded $16,000 in bribes from Mon … Continued

World

TRUMP SIGNS ORDERS TO EXIT WHO & PARIS AGREEMENT

On his first day back in office, United States President Donald Trump issued a wave of executive orders, including controversial decisions to exit the World Health Organization, suspend foreign aid for 90 days, and withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. The moves signal a significant shift in U.S. policy, sparking global concern and criticism. Trump … Continued

CHINA DISMISSES HMPV FEARS – OFFICIALS CITE DECADES OF DATA

China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed claims about an “unknown” respiratory virus as fearmongering, stating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been documented for at least 60 years. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday that respiratory infections in China are currently lower than last year’s levels, despite typical winter increases in the Northern Hemisphere.The World Health … Continued

Sports

BVI ATHLETES SHINE ON U.S. COLLEGIATE TRACK AND FIELD STAGE

Athletes from the British Virgin Islands are making their mark across the U.S. collegiate track and field circuit, delivering strong performances in various events and representing their schools with distinction. Competing at the Chelsey Henkenius 2025 Indoor Track Meet, Tyreese James delivered standout performances, winning both the 60-metre dash and the 200-metre dash. James secured … Continued

WOLUES FC EXTENDS WINNING STREAK TO REMAIN TOP OF THE TABLE

Defending champions Wolues FC kicked off 2025 on a high note, defeating Panther FC 2-1 to maintain their undefeated streak and top spot in the National Football League standings with 23 points. In the first match of Sunday’s doubleheader at the Greenland Football Stadium, Kiran Bown proved instrumental for Wolues, netting both goals for the … Continued

Politics

PREMIER OUTLINES TRANSITION PLAN TO HAVE ORDER IN COUNCIL LIFTED

At a press conference earlier today, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley provided an update on the Virgin Islands’ progress in implementing the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry. He outlined the path towards governance reform, a process crucial to lifting the Order in Council that threatens to suspend the territory’s Constitution. Premier Wheatley recounted … Continued

OPPOSITION QUESTIONS PREMIER’S LEADERSHIP

Opposition legislator Hon. Myron Walwyn has criticized Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley’s leadership, suggesting the premier does not fully grasp the responsibilities of his role. Speaking at a press conference alongside the six members of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Walwyn condemned recent actions by the government that he described as exclusionary and dismissive. Walwyn … Continued

MATHER CRITICIZES GOV’T PRIORITIES AMID SOCIAL CONCERNS

Territorial At-Large Representative Stacey Mather called for a comprehensive approach to youth development, criticizing the government’s prioritization of entertainment spending over crucial social programs. Speaking at a recent press conference, Mather emphasized that while parents bear great responsibility for young people’s development, they require robust social support systems to succeed in raising the next generation. … Continued

GOV’T UNDER FIRE OVER ANEGADA PROMISES

Residents of Anegada continue to wait for land titles promised over a year ago, while development by non-residents progresses on the island, Territorial At Large Representative Lorna Smith said during a recent press conference. The delay contradicts Premier Natalio Wheatley’s previous pledge to provide deeds to Anegadians, a move he said would dramatically impact their … Continued

Community

PENN RAISES URGENT CONCERNS OVER INCOMPLETE SOCIAL HOME REPAIRS

Critical repairs to a social home in the Eighth District have stalled after reaching the programme’s $100,000 funding limit, leaving an elderly resident in potentially dangerous living conditions, officials revealed during a recent Standing Finance Committee deliberations. District Representative Hon. Marlon Penn brought the urgent matter before the committee, expressing deep concern that the resident had … Continued

DRAKES TRADERS LTD. DONATES $10,000 TO FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK

The Family Support Network (FSN) received a $10,000 donation from Drakes Traders Ltd., marking the company’s continued commitment to supporting families in need within the Virgin Islands. The seasonal contribution was presented on December 17 at Drakes Traders’ Fish Bay location, where representatives from both organizations gathered for the occasion. In acknowledgement of Drakes Traders’ … Continued

ROTARY CLUB OF TORTOLA’s ANNUAL ROUNDABOUT LIGHTING

The Rotary Club of Tortola officially ushered in the Christmas spirit on Friday, December 13, with its annual Christmas Roundabout Lighting at Port Purcell. The well-decorated roundabout, a beloved tradition, once again illuminated the area, delighting residents and setting a festive tone for the holiday season. Following the lighting ceremony, Rotary Club members gathered to … Continued

Entertainment

RAMON G CLAIMS TWO PLACEMENTS AT STX FESTIVAL

BVI’s three-time Power Soca Monarch, Ramon George, known by his stage name Ramon G, delivered a stellar performance at the Crucian Christmas Festival 2025 Soca Monarch in St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, placing in both competing categories. In the Jumpy Segment, Ramon wowed the crowd with his hit song VI Pride, amassing 1,241 points to secure … Continued

2025 VI ICON AWARDS TO PRESENT NEW CATEGORIES

The Virgin Islands Icon Awards has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated Virgin Islands Training Academy, offering life-changing opportunities for young individuals across the territory. This year, the Academy is seeking 50 motivated and energetic participants, ranging from 10th-grade students to college-level individuals, to join its next cohort and gain invaluable experience in event … Continued

PREMIER WHEATLEY COMMENDS REGIONAL PAGEANT

Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley lauded the recent hosting of the Haynes Smith Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant in the British Virgin Islands, highlighting its significant contribution to the territory’s tourism product. Speaking about the event, Wheatley commended the quality of the show and praised those responsible for organizing such a prestigious occasion. The … Continued

SID’S POMATO POINT WINS BIG AT 12TH ANEGADA LOBSTER FEST

After a weekend of culinary delight at the 12th annual Anegada Lobster Fest, Sid’s Pomato Point claimed the inaugural Alffy Trophy for Best Lobster Sampler, besting 12 other restaurants. Anegada Beach Club and Anegada Reef Hotel secured second and third place respectively. Held under the theme “Lobster, Fun and Anegada Sun”, the competition was judged by … Continued

Business

VG WRITER SPOTLIGHTS DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN DEBUT CHILDREN’S BOOK

Businesswoman, writer and Virgin Gorda resident Karyn O. E. Alexander hopes to increase understanding about the social challenges faced by persons with disabilities with her engaging debut children’s book Zuri’s Great Plan. She even selected December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as the official launch date for her book. This heartwarming story, … Continued

CIBC CARIBBEAN APPOINTS FABIAN DEVONISH AS COUNTRY HEAD FOR THE BVI

CIBC Caribbean has announced the appointment of Fabian Devonish as Country Head for the British Virgin Islands (BVI), effective December 1, 2024. In his new role, Devonish will lead the bank’s operations in the territory under the Cayman Operating Company. He brings nearly 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 24 years … Continued

CARIBBEAN AIRLINES LAUNCHES J’OUVERT BAND AND RUM PUNCH TO CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN CULTURE

Caribbean Airlines has announced the launch of Caribbean Iere Mas (CIM), its first J’ouvert band, as part of the airline’s Caribbean Culture Program. This initiative celebrates the vibrant identity of the Caribbean region while providing an unforgettable experience for employees, customers, and Carnival enthusiasts alike. The CIM band promises an exciting, fun-filled, and safe J’ouvert … Continued

MSME CONFERENCE EMPOWERS ENTREPRENEURS IN THE BVI

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Republic Bank hosted its highly anticipated second MSME Conference, bringing together entrepreneurs and business owners from across the British Virgin Islands. The conference aimed to address the unique needs and aspirations of Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), providing a continuous platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and empowerment. Marion Blyden, … Continued

Crime

“WE’RE DOING OUR BEST” – AG COP ON RVIPF WITH CURRENT RESOURCES

Acting Police Commissioner Jacquline Vanterpool deflected questions about potential resource shortages within the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force during a recent press conference while acknowledging such concerns might have merit. Vanterpool noted that the matter would require further conversation. Vanterpool emphasized that the force is maximizing its effectiveness with available resources, as revealed in discussions … Continued

INTERDICTED OFFICERS STILL GETTING PAID

Twelve Royal Virgin Islands Police Force officers currently interdicted from duty continue to receive partial salaries, some for up to eight years so far. This is according to the Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool who made the comments during deliberations before the Standing Finance Committee in 2024. The suspended officers, primarily sergeants and constables, … Continued

RVIPF URGES RENTAL COMPANIES TO IMPROVE SECURITY MEASURES AMID VEHICLE THEFT SURGE

Superintendent Paula Alleyne of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued an urgent appeal to vehicle rental companies to enhance security practices following a spike in vehicle thefts across the territory, many of which involve rental cars being used in the commission of serious crimes. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, January … Continued

Government

ECSC TO OPEN NEW LAW YEAR WITH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOCUS 

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court will officially commence its New Law Year on January 10, 2025, with a ceremonial opening under the theme “Accessibility and Awareness – The ECSC Bridging the Gap Through Community Engagement.” This annual event highlights the court’s ongoing commitment to fostering closer ties with communities across its nine jurisdictions. The ceremonial … Continued

$25M REVENUE INCREASE ATTRIBUTED IN PART TO ADVANCEMENTS IN TAX COLLECTION & E-SERVICES

Premier Natalio Wheatley has announced a revenue projection of $407.93 million for the British Virgin Islands in 2025, a marked increase over the estimated $382.67 million for 2024.  During his recent budget address, Premier Wheatley highlighted that $379.89 million of the projected 2025 revenue would come from tax sources, including payroll, property, and international trade … Continued

EDUCATION GETS $5.27M FOR PROJECTS IN 2025, BUT BROADER BUDGET DETAILS OMITTED

In his Budget Address delivered on November 11, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to education in the British Virgin Islands, outlining both achievements from 2024 and future plans aimed at strengthening the Territory’s educational infrastructure. In the 2025 budget, over $5.2 million has been earmarked for critical capital acquisition … Continued

GOV’T REVIVES PLAN TO MERGE ELECTRICITY AND WATER SERVICES FOR 2025

The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced plans to merge the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) with the Water and Sewerage Department (WSD) by 2025, reigniting a proposal initially announced in 2013 under the National Democratic Party (NDP) which was never realized. Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, made the declaration … Continued

Opinion

COMMENTARY ‘UK LABOUR GOV’T CAN MEND FENCES WITH CARIBBEAN TERRITORIES’

The following Commentary was written by Mr. Benito Wheatley. The Labour Party’s landslide victory at the polls presents a fresh opportunity for the United Kingdom (UK) to establish a genuine modern partnership with the Overseas Territories (OTs) after 14 years of Conservative Party rule in which the relationship with the Territories was severely strained by … Continued

MINIMUM QUALITY OF LIFE

The following is commentary by Shaina M. Smith-Archer. I heard about the call for comments in the news on increasing the minimum wage, and there is so much here I don’t know which corner to start at. I think we should first complete the population census to understand what is really going on in our … Continued

Travel and Tourism

TOURISM NUMBERS DRAW POLITICAL DEBATE

Opposition Leader Hon. Ronnie Skelton challenged the government’s celebration of record tourism numbers, arguing that the territory’s high proportion of cruise ship visitors overshadows more economically significant overnight stays. The criticism comes as the Virgin Islands marks a milestone of 1,092,139 tourist arrivals in 2024, a 9.8% increase from 2023. While cruise visitors accounted for … Continued

TOURISM SUMMIT HAILED A HUGE SUCCESS

The two-day Tourism which concluded last week has been hailed a success and a step in the right direction. Some 160 stakeholders joined in the summit which featured local, regional and international speakers. The first of its kind has been hailed by Junior Minister of Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith as a catalyst for the industry. … Continued

SPACEX STARSHIP EXPLODES AND DISRUPTS FLIGHTS IN THE REGION

SpaceX’s latest Starship test flight ended in destruction Thursday after achieving a rare booster capture, marking another dramatic chapter in the development of the world’s largest rocket. The spacecraft, carrying 10 dummy satellites, broke apart approximately eight and a half minutes into flight after its engines shut down one by one during ascent. The last … Continued

Weather

BVIHSA ISSUES ALERT ON POSSIBLE CLINIC DELAYS AMID WEATHER

In response to severe weather conditions and an ongoing Flash Flood Warning, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has issued an advisory, warning the public of potential delays or cancellations in clinic services and outpatient appointments at its healthcare facilities. The notice, issued early this morning, urges patients with scheduled appointments to monitor updates closely, … Continued

FLASH FLOOD WATCH ISSUED FOR BVI AS HEAVY RAIN FORECAST

Residents in the British Virgin Islands are under a flash flood watch today, Thursday, October 31, due to expected heavy rainfall. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services have issued the alert for low-lying and flood-prone areas, advising residents to be prepared for moderate to major flooding. A developing low-pressure system over or near the territory … Continued

DDM WARNS OF HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING RISKS FOR BVI

Residents across the British Virgin Islands are being urged to prepare for potential flooding as forecasters warn of heavy rainfall that could dump up to eight inches of rain over the Territory. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) issued a release on Wednesday afternoon, warning of deteriorating conditions beginning Thursday and lasting through the weekend. … Continued

Health

CHINA DISMISSES HMPV FEARS – OFFICIALS CITE DECADES OF DATA

China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed claims about an “unknown” respiratory virus as fearmongering, stating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been documented for at least 60 years. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday that respiratory infections in China are currently lower than last year’s levels, despite typical winter increases in the Northern Hemisphere.The World Health … Continued

WHEATLEY HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN HEALTH SECTOR

The Virgin Islands is taking a significant step toward modernizing its health sector with the recent hosting of an Information Systems for Health (IS4H) workshop. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Social Development in collaboration with the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), brought together a diverse group of stakeholders for a multisector consultation. … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

MAYNARD’S SENTENCING DELAYED AGAIN; FAHIE REQUEST ANOTHER DELAY

The sentencing of Oleanvine Maynard, former Managing Director of the BVI Ports Authority has been pushed back once again despite a previous announcement that prosecutors would not be granting any further extensions. The reasons for the additional delay has not been provided. However, Maynard’s sentencing hearing is now reset for June 20th, 2024. Maynard, confessed … Continued

LEGAL SAGA CONTINUES IN FAHIE TRIAL – PROSECUTION & DEFENCE TO SUBMIT SOLUTION ON MARCH 7

Despite being found guilty on all counts relating to cocaine and money laundering charges on February 8, nearly two weeks following the verdict, the legal saga relating to the Andrew Fahie trial continues as a federal judge grapples with unresolved doubts raised by two jurors about their guilty verdicts. The latest development in what has … Continued

REPOLLING OF JURORS UNLIKELY BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE – SAYS LEGAL EXPERT

A local attorney with experience in the United States legal system believes the recent request by Andrew Fahie’s legal team to repoll two jurors following their decision to recant their guilty verdicts, is unlikely to be granted. The attorney who requested anonymity noted that while it is highly unlikely for the request to be granted, he said … Continued

Education

NATIONAL SCIENCE FAIR SET FOR MARCH 12-14

Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports Affairs Hon. Sharie de Castro in an official message to the public has announced that the annual National Science and Innovation Fair will take place from March 12-14, 2025, at the Multi-Purpose Complex. The fair will feature interactive displays and hands-on experiments, allowing students to tackle real-world challenges in … Continued

STAKEHOLDERS JOIN TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE HLSCC’S FOUNDERS DAY

As part of the H. Lavity Stout Community College 35th anniversary celebrations, stakeholders from across the Virgin Islands joined to celebrate and observe Founders Day, a celebration of the founding fathers of the institution. President of the Student Government Association Ms. Palesa welcomed attendees to this momentous occasion. President of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community … Continued

HLSCC CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION

This year the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) is celebrating its 35th Anniversary of higher education in the Virgin Islands. On Monday, January 14, 2025, the college held a press conference speaking about the observations. Communications and Public Relations Manager Ms Bria Smith revealed that this milestone year celebrates decades of excellence, growth, and … Continued

STUDENT REGISTRATIONS FOR 2025/2026 OPEN

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports of the Virgin Islands has officially commenced the new student registrations for the 2025/2026 academic year. The registration period began on January 2, 2025, and will continue until April 30, 2025. Parents and guardians seeking to enrol students in public or private schools across the Virgin Islands … Continued

Events

BVIEC INAUGURAL CAREER EXPO DRAWS YOUTHFUL INTEREST IN ENERGY SECTOR

The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) hosted its inaugural Career Expo at its Long Bush Compound on Friday, November 29, drawing a large number of young residents eager to explore career opportunities in the energy sector. Speaking at the event, BVIEC General Manager Dr. Neil Smith highlighted the Corporation’s critical role in the stability and future … Continued

RESIDENTS CELEBRATE HISTORIC 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1949 MARCH

Residents of the Virgin Islands on Sunday, November 24th, commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Great March of 1949 with a historic march. What is being termed a momentous event by lawmakers brought together thousands of residents, community members, and local organisations, all marching in solidarity to honour the courageous actions of those who fought … Continued

Press Release

CCT CLARIFIES DISCONTINUATION OF SERVICES TO TOLA RADIO

Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT) wishes to clarify recent discussions in the public domain concerning the termination of our service exchange agreement with Mr. Floyd “Heritage” Burnett and Tola Radio. Since Tola Radio’s inception as a broadcast entity, CCT has been a supportive partner, providing various services to facilitate the station’s growth and development. These … Continued

CCT DELIVERS ON PROVIDING FREE FIBER INTERNET TO THE WILLARD WHEATLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Caribbean Cellular Telephone Ltd (CCT) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the educational experience for students and faculty at the Willard Wheatley Primary School, by transforming the school to a Wi-Fi enabled campus. On Monday, May 27th, CCT successfully completed the installation of fiber internet services at the school, providing access to high-speed internet and … Continued

BVIFARS PAYMENT PORTAL TO GO LIVE IN JAN 2024

The BVI Financial Account Reporting System (BVIFars) payment portal is set to go live in January 2024. The International Tax Authority (ITA) made the announcement on Wednesday, December 6, as it reminded all relevant entities with reporting obligations to enrol in the BVIFARS portal. By enrolling, the ITA said it would satisfy the entities’ respective … Continued

Environment

AMBITIOUS GREEN ENERGY GOALS COLLIDE WITH THE REALITIES OF FOSSIL FUEL RELIANCE IN SAINT LUCIA

On the heels of  COP29, Saint Lucia’s ambitious climate commitments are again in focus. The island has positioned itself as a regional leader in the fight against climate change, with its 2023-2030 National Energy Policy (NEP) setting an aggressive target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.  These bold aspirations come against the backdrop of a … Continued

2024 RECORD-SETTING ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON ENDS

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ended November 30. With 18 named storms and 11 hurricanes with five major hurricanes causing damage around the Atlantic and Caribbean; 2024 was the ninth consecutive above average hurricane season. Director of Disaster Management Mr. Jasen Penn said that the destructive power of hurricanes means residents should remain prepared all … Continued

“THE MANATEE” MURAL TO BE UNVEILED IN HONOUR OF VI MARITIME HERITAGE

Director of Culture Dr. Katherine Smith has announced that the mural, “The Manatee” will be unveiled on Friday at the Bamboushay Lounge in honour the Virgin Islands’ maritime heritage. Dr. Smith said this year, the Culture and Tourism Month has focused on cultural tourism and the Bamboushay Lounge represents a business with a cultural product. … Continued

HODGE-SMITH TO LEAD $500K TERRITORY-WIDE BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

The Government of the Virgin Islands has addressed longstanding public concerns about the territory’s visual appeal and lack of aesthetic upkeep by empowering the BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) with a $500,000 grant for a beautification project. The initiative will be led by Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, the Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4). In … Continued

Youth

MISS BVI ADACIA ADONIS ENGAGES BVI YOUTH WITH CHRISTMAS COMPETITION

Miss BVI 2024 Adacia Adonis is inviting students across the British Virgin Islands to showcase their artistic talents through a festive Christmas card decoration competition. The contest, open to all students, challenges participants to create original artwork under one of five creative themes: BVI Christmas Traditions, Under the Sea Christmas, Santa’s Island Vacation, Eco-Friendly Christmas, … Continued

2023 CTO JUNIOR TOURISM MINISTER REFLECTS ON YEAR OF SERVICE

Naomi Onwufuju, the British Virgin Islands’ representative who held the title of CTO’s Junior Minister for Tourism 2023, recently presented her year-in-review to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) as her tenure came to a close. In her presentation, Onwufuju highlighted the valuable experiences and insights she gained during her year-long role. She emphasized how the … Continued

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE LAUNCHES $50,000 FUTURE FUND TO BENEFIT VIRGIN ISLANDS YOUTH

The Governor’s Office has announced the launch of the Future Fund, a $50,000 initiative aimed at supporting youth empowerment and promoting good governance in the Virgin Islands. Local organizations can now apply for grants of up to $10,000 to implement projects that will benefit young people and strengthen political accountability. The fund, supported by the … Continued

Pageantry

JAE’NYIAH DEFREITAS CROWNED FLPS ‘ANGEL OF CHRISTMAS’

Jae’Nyiah Defreitas made history on Thursday, December 12, by becoming the first-ever Angel of Christmas at the Francis Lettsome Primary School (FLPS) pageant. The event, held at the Eileen L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), saw Defreitas dominate four of the five judged categories, outshining her peers to earn the prestigious … Continued

PUBLIC VOTING ONGOING FOR PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD IN TRUE BLUE PAGEANT

Miss Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Tresand Sharpe, is set to represent the territory as contestant number 1 in the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations’ (CFPWA) True Blue Beauty Pageant. The pageant takes place this Friday in Antigua and Barbuda. In an interview with 284 Media’s Jhaka Wooding, Sharpe reflected on her journey leading … Continued

DE’NYA WINTER WELCOMED HOME WITH CEREMONY AT AIRPORT

De’Nya Winter, representing the British Virgin Islands, was crowned Miss Caribbean Cultural Princess 2024 on Sunday, October 6, in Hollywood, Florida. The pageant, reduced to two competitors, featured representatives from the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Winter dominated several categories, winning Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality, Best Cultural Doll Wear, Best Magazine Wear, … Continued