Gearing up for Jost Lime and Dine 2026

Gearing up for Jost Lime and Dine 2026

In the News

Belle Vue Road temporarily closed due to downed utility pole

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has advised that Belle Vue Road is temporarily closed after a utility pole fell and obstructed the roadway. Police officers are on the scene along with personnel from the BVI Electricity Corporation, who are working to safely manage the situation and clear the obstruction. In a separate statement, the BVI Electricity Corporation said the … Continued

Cline floats idea of new political movement

Local talk show host Claude Skelton Cline has suggested the possibility of forming a new political group aimed at representing the people of the British Virgin Islands, arguing that current members of the House of Assembly have failed to meet the territory’s needs. During a recent broadcast, Skelton Cline said voters should begin identifying and … Continued

Rymer defends utility merger bill, says new corporation will improve planning and financing

Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer has defended the proposed Virgin Islands Energy and Water Corporation Bill in the House of Assembly, arguing that merging electricity, water and sewage services under one statutory body is necessary to modernise the Territory’s utility systems. During his contribution to the debate, Rymer said the current structure, … Continued

Turnbull critics proposed Energy and Water Corporation Bill

Opposition Member Melvin ‘Mitch’ Turnbull has voiced strong concerns about the proposed Virgin Islands Energy and Water Corporation Bill 2026, arguing that the legislation lacks clear plans for how the merger of utility services would be implemented. Speaking during debate in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, Turnbull criticised the government for, in his view, … Continued

Walwyn seeks speaker’s ruling after dispute over debate rules in House of Assembly

A procedural dispute unfolded in the House of Assembly on Tuesday after Leader of the Opposition Myron Walwyn requested permission to continue his contribution to a debate on the Virgin Islands Energy and Water Corporation Bill, 2026, arguing that illness had prevented him from completing his remarks during a previous sitting. Walwyn cited Section 35 … Continued

Draft Virgin Islands National Tourism Policy Now Available for Public Review

The Government of the Virgin Islands is making considerable progress towards finalising the Virgin Islands National Tourism Policy (2026-2036) and the draft is now available for public review. The Policy proposes a comprehensive framework for transforming the Territory’s tourism sector into a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive pillar of sustainable development. It seeks to achieve … Continued

BVI continues as one of the world’s most trusted IFC’s

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is said to have consolidated its position in 2025 as one of the world’s most trusted international financial centres. That’s according to BVI Finance which said this was evident with activity spanning digital assets, global capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, investment funds and infrastructure finance.  It said as regulatory … Continued

Courtesy Call Highlights Gender Equality Priorities and Partnership Opportunities

Strengthening collaboration to advance gender equality in the Virgin Islands was the focus of a recent courtesy call between Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Ms. Tasha Bertie, and Gender and Equality Adviser at the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Ms. Claire Allan. The engagement provided an opportunity … Continued

Local

Illegal oil dumping sparks frustration among district six residents

Residents of District Six are expressing growing frustration over illegal oil dumping in their communities, saying the practice has left some areas looking like dump sites. The concerns were raised during a District Six meeting hosted by Representative Myron Walwyn on Thursday night, where residents voiced their dissatisfaction with what they described as worsening environmental … Continued

Cline criticises NDP leadership prospects

Talk show host Claude Skelton Cline on Tuesday raised concerns about the National Democratic Party’s electoral prospects, suggesting that the party could face another defeat if it seeks to elect Eight District Representative Marlon Penn. Speaking during his programme, Honestly Speaking, Cline alleged that the party’s decision to field certain candidates could negatively impact its … Continued

VIRGIN ISLANDS AIRPORTS SEES RECORD PASSENGER NUMBERS IN 2025

The BVI Airports Authority (the Authority) is reporting strong and sustained growth in passenger traffic across the Territory’s airports. According to the Authority’s passenger traffic reports, there were 317,676 passenger movements, a 14.2 percent increase over 2024 which had a total of 278,085. The year 2025 marked the first year since 2008 that the Territory’s … Continued

BVIEC ANNOUNCES PHASED TRANSITION TO PAPERLESS BILLING  

The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) will transition to paperless billing using a phased approach, beginning February 16, 2026, as part of our ongoing efforts to improve service delivery, operational efficiency and customer convenience. Under the first phase of the initiative, effective February 16, 2026, printed electricity bills will no longer be issued routinely. … Continued

Regional

Families of slain Trinidadians sue US over deadly Caribbean strike

The mother and sister of two Trinidadian nationals killed in a United States military strike in the Caribbean last year have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the US government, according to several international reports. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in a federal court in Massachusetts, relates to the deaths of Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi … Continued

OECS Commission and World Pediatrics Sign Landmark MoU to Strengthen Child Healthcare

Delivering on OECS Strategic Priority 5: To advance equity and inclusion by reducing disparities in health, education and social outcomes, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission continues to champion initiatives that improve the quality of healthcare in the region by formalising a strategic partnership with World Pediatrics. On January 22, 2026, the OECS and World … Continued

Governor Bryan warns BVI fees are undermining USVI Vision 2040

US Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. in his final State of the Territory Address on Monday raised concerns about regional maritime policies, saying current British Virgin Islands charter vessel fees are hindering progress toward the USVI’s long-term economic goals. Governor Bryan said the USVI Vision 2040 development plan calls for significant investment in the … Continued

Trump’s Immigrant Visa suspension takes effect — What You Need to Know

The new U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump took effect on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, suspending immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, 11 of which are Caribbean states. The U.S. State Department announced that the policy will indefinitely pause the issuance of immigrant visas for applicants from the selected countries, which span … Continued

World

MAJOR CLOUDFLARE ISSUE TAKES DOWN X, CHATGPT, AND OTHER SITES

A widespread technical issue at internet infrastructure giant Cloudflare has caused disruptions across large swathes of the web on Tuesday November 18th, rendering popular platforms like X (formerly Twitter), ChatGPT, and Canva. Visitors attempting to access the affected websites were met with error messages indicating that the pages could not be loaded. The errors were … Continued

BVI SAILOR JOINS GLOBAL FLOTILLA TO DELIVER AID TO GAZA

British Virgin Islands national Dane Hunter has joined the Global Samud Flotilla, an international mission seeking to break the blockade of Gaza and deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid. Hunter, who has Palestinian friends in the Caribbean and New York, said his decision to join was deeply personal.  “It’s a man-made tragedy. You have starving kids. … Continued

NEW UK FOREIGN SECRETARY FOR BVI AND OTHER OT’S –YVETTE COOPER REPLACES DAVID LAMMY

A major upheaval at the top levels of the British government has resulted in a new Foreign Secretary with direct portfolio responsibilities for the British Virgin Islands and the other UK Overseas Territories (OTs). Yvette Cooper, who was the Home Secretary, has replaced David Lammy, who has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary. … Continued

Sports

BVI U-17 Men’s team heads to Costa Rica

The British Virgin Islands Under-17 men’s national football team departed for Costa Rica on Monday to compete in the CONCACAF U-17 Championship Qualifiers, with coaches emphasising development, competitiveness, and long-term growth over immediate results.Head coach Percival said it is a privilege to work with the young squad, describing the tournament as an important learning opportunity … Continued

BVI U-17 Women face uphill battle after heavy loss to Costa Rica in CONCACAF Qualifiers

The British Virgin Islands Under-17 women’s football team remains in contention in the U-17 CONCACAF Women’s Championship Qualifiers, despite suffering a heavy 16-0 defeat to Costa Rica in Group E action. The loss came against a dominant Costa Rica side currently leading the group standings. Costa Rica and the British Virgin Islands have met once … Continued

BVIAA PRESIDENT PRAISES ATHLETES’ PERFORMANCES

President of the BVI Athletics Association (BVIAA), Steve Augustine, has commended the efforts of the territory’s athletes following their performances at the recent World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, while expressing optimism for stronger showings in the future. Augustine highlighted the performance of sprinter Rikkoi Brathwaite, who clocked 10.23 seconds in the men’s 100 metres. He … Continued

DELILAH PEASE MAKES HISTORY AS BVI’S FIRST PAN AMERICAN SQUASH CHAMPION

The British Virgin Islands is celebrating a historic sporting achievement after 11-year-old squash prodigy Delilah Pease captured the territory’s first-ever title at the Pan American Squash Championships in Guatemala. Competing in the Under-13 category, Pease defeated opponents from Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, El Salvador, Mexico and Guatemala without dropping a single game, an achievement … Continued

Politics

Premier Wheatley Attends Landmark International Cooperation Conference in Dubai

Premier of The Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, is participating in a landmark global forum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that seeks to deliver tangible and high-impact outcomes for the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean Region. The 10th Association of Caribbean States ACS International Cooperation Conference (ICC) is being held from 3rd … Continued

Governor’s Group and Constitutionally Established Departments to Enhance Critical Legislation in 2026

The Governor’s Group and Constitutionally Established Departments will progress various pieces of legislation aimed at advancing governance, transparency and accountability in The Virgin Islands. During the Speech from the Throne on 13 January, His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce outlined the legislative agenda of the Public Service in 2026, highlighting ongoing work for the transformation … Continued

Trump’s Immigrant Visa suspension takes effect — What You Need to Know

The new U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump took effect on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, suspending immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, 11 of which are Caribbean states. The U.S. State Department announced that the policy will indefinitely pause the issuance of immigrant visas for applicants from the selected countries, which span … Continued

Cline urges Penn, Turnbull to support Skelton

Local talk show host and social commentator, Claude Skelton Cline is calling for unity and decisive leadership as constitutional discussions continue in the Virgin Islands, arguing that At-Large Representative Ronnie Skelton is best suited to assist the Government in the process. Speaking on his programme, Honestly Speaking the commentator said the Territory is at a … Continued

Community

Government push to merge utilities faces scrutiny in House of Assembly

Members of the House of Assembly debated the proposed Virgin Islands Energy and Water Corporation Bill, 2026, during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly, as the government moves to merge electricity, water and sewage services under a single statutory body. The bill, introduced by Minister … Continued

Health officials and Rotary Club partner on Cardiovascular Symposium

Representatives from the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) and Rotary Clubs across the Territory are collaborating on a joint cardiovascular symposium aimed at raising awareness, promoting prevention, and improving community health outcomes. Dr. June Samuels, Acting Chief Officer of the BVIHSA and President of the Rotary Club of Road Town, joined Dr. Sharlon … Continued

Police commissioner warns of rising Cybercrime, urges stronger partnerships to keep BVI safe

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is strengthening collaboration with regional and international partners as it works to improve efficiency, tackle emerging crimes, and ensure value for money for the public. Interim commissioner, Richard Ullger made the disclose while speaking at a Rotary Club meeting on the force’s future direction, he highlighted the importance … Continued

Government

Government push to merge utilities faces scrutiny in House of Assembly

Members of the House of Assembly debated the proposed Virgin Islands Energy and Water Corporation Bill, 2026, during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly, as the government moves to merge electricity, water and sewage services under a single statutory body. The bill, introduced by Minister … Continued

Premier Wheatley Attends Landmark International Cooperation Conference in Dubai

Premier of The Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, is participating in a landmark global forum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that seeks to deliver tangible and high-impact outcomes for the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean Region. The 10th Association of Caribbean States ACS International Cooperation Conference (ICC) is being held from 3rd … Continued

Residents express anger over removal of playground equipment at Ivan Dawson Primary School

Residents of Cane Garden Bay have voiced frustration and disappointment over the handling of a playground issue at the Ivan Dawson Primary School, saying the situation has placed children’s safety at risk. According to the resident, the existing playground at the school is in poor condition and unfit for use, as one child has already … Continued

Grant highlights strong support for BVI students in Asia Abroad Scholarship

Political Economy Officer in the BVI Hong Kong Office Ronn Grant is reassuring parents of their children’s wellbeing when they decide to pursue studies in the Asia Abroad Scholarship Programme in Hong Kong. The BVI Asia Study Abroad Scholarship Programme is a three-way partnership between the Government of the Virgin Islands, elite Universities in Asia, and the … Continued

Crime

Police commissioner warns of rising Cybercrime, urges stronger partnerships to keep BVI safe

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is strengthening collaboration with regional and international partners as it works to improve efficiency, tackle emerging crimes, and ensure value for money for the public. Interim commissioner, Richard Ullger made the disclose while speaking at a Rotary Club meeting on the force’s future direction, he highlighted the importance … Continued

Jazz Freeman wanted by the police

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a wanted bulletin for 33-year-old Jazz Freeman, who is being sought for questioning in connection with the alleged possession of an illegal firearm, explosives, and controlled drugs. According to police, Freeman is described as a Black male, approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall, with a medium … Continued

Police seize illegal firearm in Fahie Hill operation

A significant blow was dealt to gun-related crime on Tuesday, when officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) carried out a targeted search operation at a residence in the Fahie Hill area. During the operation, officers seized an illegal firearm along with several rounds of ammunition. One male was arrested at the scene … Continued

Entertainment

BVI MADE ITS DISCOVERY CHANNEL DEBUT

The British Virgin Islands will make its highly anticipated debut on Discovery Channel’s award-winning television series, “Let’s Take it Outside with Misty Wells”, airing on Sunday, 24th August, 2025 to more than 220 million viewers worldwide. The BVI episode will serve as the Season 6 premiere, officially kicking off the new season of the series, … Continued

RAUL “JOUGO” SPRAUVE- RECEIVES CARIFESTA XV ICON AWARD

Mr. Raul “Jougo” R. Sprauve, acclaimed musician, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador, has been awarded the prestigious CARIFESTA XV Icon Award on 24 August 2025 in Bridgetown, Barbados. The Icon Award, one of CARIFESTA’s highest honours, recognises individuals who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to Caribbean arts and culture. Mr. Sprauve’s recognition affirms his standing … Continued

QUESTIONS LOOM AS PREMIER URGED TO REVEAL CASH AMOUNTS FOR ENTERTAINMENT SUPPORT

The issue of utilizing government funds to sponsor private entertainment events continues to be a cause for concern. At a recent government organized press conference, the Premier was asked to confirm the cash component of sponsorship to the BVI Music Festival which is being held this weekend at Cane Garden Bay, and YOLO Promotions from … Continued

Business

CCT LAUNCHES 5G IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Caribbean Cellular Telephone (CCT) has officially switched on the Territory’s first 5G network, marking a milestone that ushers the British Virgin Islands into a new digital era. With faster speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability, 5G is set to transform how residents live, work, and connect. “The BVI deserves world-class technology, and today we’re proud … Continued

PREMIER WHEATLEY DEFENDS PRIVACY SAFEGUARDS IN NEW OWNERSHIP DISCLOSURE RULES

The Virgin Islands’ new Beneficial Ownership Legitimate Interest Regime officially took effect on July 1, 2025, introducing revised rules for who can access corporate ownership data and under what conditions. Premier Natalio Wheatley said the regime strikes a crucial balance between transparency and protecting individual privacy. The law replaces the previous framework with a system … Continued

Press Release

Premier Wheatley Attends Landmark International Cooperation Conference in Dubai

Premier of The Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, is participating in a landmark global forum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that seeks to deliver tangible and high-impact outcomes for the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean Region. The 10th Association of Caribbean States ACS International Cooperation Conference (ICC) is being held from 3rd … Continued

Work Begins on the Sir Francis Drakes Highway from Fort Recovery to Cox Heath

The Ministry of Communications and Works has commenced critical coastal protection and roadway improvement works along the Fort Recovery to Cox Heath corridor.  This marks the first phase of the broader nine-mile road enhancement project stretching from the West End Ferry Terminal to Road Town. The initiative follows the signing of a fourteen million, eighty-eight … Continued

Governor’s Group and Constitutionally Established Departments to Enhance Critical Legislation in 2026

The Governor’s Group and Constitutionally Established Departments will progress various pieces of legislation aimed at advancing governance, transparency and accountability in The Virgin Islands. During the Speech from the Throne on 13 January, His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce outlined the legislative agenda of the Public Service in 2026, highlighting ongoing work for the transformation … Continued

OECS Commission and World Pediatrics Sign Landmark MoU to Strengthen Child Healthcare

Delivering on OECS Strategic Priority 5: To advance equity and inclusion by reducing disparities in health, education and social outcomes, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission continues to champion initiatives that improve the quality of healthcare in the region by formalising a strategic partnership with World Pediatrics. On January 22, 2026, the OECS and World … Continued

Travel and Tourism

Trump’s Immigrant Visa suspension takes effect — What You Need to Know

The new U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump took effect on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, suspending immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, 11 of which are Caribbean states. The U.S. State Department announced that the policy will indefinitely pause the issuance of immigrant visas for applicants from the selected countries, which span … Continued

VIRGIN ISLANDS AIRPORTS SEES RECORD PASSENGER NUMBERS IN 2025

The BVI Airports Authority (the Authority) is reporting strong and sustained growth in passenger traffic across the Territory’s airports. According to the Authority’s passenger traffic reports, there were 317,676 passenger movements, a 14.2 percent increase over 2024 which had a total of 278,085. The year 2025 marked the first year since 2008 that the Territory’s … Continued

Premier Wheatley briefs public following OECS leaders meeting in St. Lucia

Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley on Tuesday briefed residents of the Virgin Islands following his participation in a “Deep Caucus” meeting of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Heads of Government held in St. Lucia on January 12. Speaking to Chief Protocol Officer, Kareem-Nelson Hull upon his arrival at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, … Continued

U.S. halts immigrant visa processing for 75 Countries in sweeping state department freeze

The U.S. State Department announced Wednesday that it will pause processing of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, a sweeping move officials say is aimed at keeping out people the government believes are likely to depend on public assistance. The suspension, which the department said will take effect Jan. 21, applies only to immigrant … Continued

Opinion

HOW BVI DIPLOMACY IS SECURING OUR PLACE IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD

By BVI Special Envoy Benito Wheatley As international relations becomes more unpredictable in an increasingly uncertain world, diplomacy will be even more critical to advancing the national interests of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). It is the best means by which to exert some influence on the external decisions that ultimately affect our daily lives, … Continued

BVI’S POLITICAL FUTURE IS VIRGIN ISLANDERS BUSINESS SAYS SKELTON CLINE

Talk Show Host Claude Skelton Cline does not believe expatriates and belongers have any business in determining the way forward for the territory. Skelton Cline during his radio programme ‘Honestly Speaking’ was discussing the issue of self-determination and having the people vote in a referendum. Skelton Cline says if persons are not Virgin Islanders by blood … Continued

Health

Health officials and Rotary Club partner on Cardiovascular Symposium

Representatives from the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) and Rotary Clubs across the Territory are collaborating on a joint cardiovascular symposium aimed at raising awareness, promoting prevention, and improving community health outcomes. Dr. June Samuels, Acting Chief Officer of the BVIHSA and President of the Rotary Club of Road Town, joined Dr. Sharlon … Continued

OECS Commission and World Pediatrics Sign Landmark MoU to Strengthen Child Healthcare

Delivering on OECS Strategic Priority 5: To advance equity and inclusion by reducing disparities in health, education and social outcomes, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission continues to champion initiatives that improve the quality of healthcare in the region by formalising a strategic partnership with World Pediatrics. On January 22, 2026, the OECS and World … Continued

Minister urges employers to make timely Social Security Contributions

Minister for Health and Social Development, Vincent O. Wheatley, has underscored the importance of timely Social Security and National Health Insurance (NHI) contributions, describing them as essential to the sustainability of the Territory’s social protection system. Speaking during the second sitting of the third session of the Fifth House of Assembly on Thursday, January 15, … Continued

RDA signs $845,000 contract to strengthen power resilience at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital

The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), working in support of the Government of the Virgin Islands, has signed a contract with Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd. for design and installation services aimed at improving generator connectivity at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital. The contract, signed on 12 January, is valued at $845,530.76 and … Continued

Education

Grant highlights strong support for BVI students in Asia Abroad Scholarship

Political Economy Officer in the BVI Hong Kong Office Ronn Grant is reassuring parents of their children’s wellbeing when they decide to pursue studies in the Asia Abroad Scholarship Programme in Hong Kong. The BVI Asia Study Abroad Scholarship Programme is a three-way partnership between the Government of the Virgin Islands, elite Universities in Asia, and the … Continued

VIPSLI continues to advance leadership development

Customer service and leadership development, key priorities outlined in the Deputy Governor’s January message for 2026, are being strengthened through ongoing training initiatives at the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI). Speaking recently, Director of VIPSLI, Dr. Connie E. George, highlighted the institute’s role in enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of public officers across … Continued

STCW returns to HLSCC with enhanced facilities and expanded maritime training offerings

After a strategic pause to rebuild, upgrade, and strengthen its maritime infrastructure, the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) has officially announced the return of the STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) beginning February 2026, following recertification and approval by the United Kingdom’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). The return of STCW training restores a vital … Continued

BVI Finance announces return of Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme

The future of the British Virgin Islands’ financial services industry is taking shape with the official return of the Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme, now entering its third consecutive year, BVI Finance announced. The initiative is designed to prepare the next generation of British Virgin Islanders for careers in financial services by offering tertiary-level students and … Continued

Weather

Minor earthquakes recorded in the Caribbean

Seismologists recorded two minor earthquakes in the Caribbean region during the early hours of Friday, January 2, though neither event was reported as being felt by residents. The first earthquake, measuring magnitude 3.2, occurred at approximately 2:36 a.m. local time in the Caribbean Sea near Isla de Mona, off the west coast of Puerto Rico. … Continued

TROUGH SYSTEM BRINGS SHOWERS AND CLOUDY SKIES TO BVI; USVI UNDER FLOOD WARNING

The British Virgin Islands is experiencing unsettled weather this morning, Thursday, September 18, as a trough system near the Territory produces scattered showers and cloudy conditions, according to the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). In its morning weather bulletin, the DDM reported a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms throughout the day, with showers expected to … Continued

CDEMA DIRECTOR URGES BVI RESIDENTS TO PREPARE FOR ACTIVE 2025 HURRICANE SEASON

At the 49th CARICOM Head of Government Meeting, Director of Communication, Karia Christopher interviewed Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, Elizabeth Riley, for a timely conversation on disaster readiness. With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season already underway and shaping up to more active than usual. Riley is urging the residence of the … Continued

DISASTER MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR WARNS OF IMPACT FROM U.S. SATELLITE SHUTDOWN

Director of the Department of Disaster Management Jasen Penn says with the United States ending the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, which shared weather satellite data with forecasters at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration would create some challenges for countries including the BVI. Penn said those satellites provided structural information about weather systems, adding they … Continued

Environment

Residents voice frustration over roads, water and beautification in Cane Garden Bay

Concerns over road conditions, water supply, and overall beautification in Cane Garden Bay dominated a community meeting held Monday night between District Two residents, their representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull, and Minister for Communications and Works, Kye Rymer. Cane Garden Bay, one of the British Virgin Islands’ most popular tourism destinations, was at the centre of … Continued

STCW returns to HLSCC with enhanced facilities and expanded maritime training offerings

After a strategic pause to rebuild, upgrade, and strengthen its maritime infrastructure, the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) has officially announced the return of the STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) beginning February 2026, following recertification and approval by the United Kingdom’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). The return of STCW training restores a vital … Continued

U.S. trade report finds BVI Vessel Law damaging to USVI economy, Bryan pens letter to Trump

A U.S. government trade report has formally raised concerns that recent changes to the British Virgin Islands’ vessel licensing laws are harming the U.S. Virgin Islands economy, escalating a cross-border dispute that has now reached the White House, Congress, and multiple federal agencies. The Sixteenth Report to Congress on the Operation of the Caribbean Basin … Continued

VIPD responds to shark attack at Dorsch Beach

The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) is investigating a shark attack that claimed the life of a 56-year-old woman at Dorsch Beach on Thursday afternoon.According to VIPD, the 911 Emergency Call Center received multiple calls at approximately 4:28 pm on January 8, 2026, reporting that a female swimmer had been bitten by a shark at … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

EARLY RELEASE FOR KADEEM & OLEANVINE MAYNARD RAISES QUESTIONS

The federal release dates for Kadeem Stephan Maynard and Oleanvine Pickering Maynard have been suddenly moved up, raising questions about the circumstances behind their early exits from prison. Kadeem Maynard, originally sentenced to 57 months in prison for his role in a cocaine importation conspiracy involving former Premier Andrew Fahie, is now set for release … Continued

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

Events

WORLD’S LARGEST FLOATING BOOKFAIR ‘LOGOS HOPE’ TO VISIT BVI OCTOBER 24TH-28TH

The Logos Hope, known as the world’s largest floating bookfair, is scheduled to visit the British Virgin Islands from October 24 to 28, bringing affordable books, cultural exchange, and community outreach to local residents. While no official announcement has yet been made by local authorities, 284Media confirmed the ship’s visit based on the published schedule … Continued

“SKILLS PAY THE BILLS”: TECHNICAL STUDIES GRADS CELEBRATED FOR PRACTICAL EXCELLENCE

The 24 graduates of the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies were reminded that technical vocational education and training is not something to be looked down on, nor is it merely a fallback option. As Education Minister Sharie De Castro told the class of 2025, “skills pay the bills.” Minister De Castro delivered this message … Continued

“FINTECH ON THE SEAS” HIGHLIGHTS BVI’S COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND REGULATORY EXCELLENCE

Delegates to a Fintech on the Seas conference held in territory were told that for decades the Virgin Islands has been among the most secure, best regulated jurisdictions for international business. Speaking at the opening of the conference, Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley said Fintech on the Seas is more than an event; it is statement … Continued

Youth

BVI U-17 Women face uphill battle after heavy loss to Costa Rica in CONCACAF Qualifiers

The British Virgin Islands Under-17 women’s football team remains in contention in the U-17 CONCACAF Women’s Championship Qualifiers, despite suffering a heavy 16-0 defeat to Costa Rica in Group E action. The loss came against a dominant Costa Rica side currently leading the group standings. Costa Rica and the British Virgin Islands have met once … Continued

Teen uses Christmas season to raise funds for FSN

A 15-year-old girl has turned a holiday tradition into a meaningful act of charity, raising funds to support victims of domestic violence in the British Virgin Islands. Rédiance Donovan Simon used her Christmas season to collect donations for the Family Support Network (FSN), a local organization that provides critical services to individuals and families affected … Continued

BVITB INTERNS LAND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES- PATH TO CREATING TOURISM INDUSTRY LEADERS

The BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) is reporting success from the just concluded 2nd Annual Tourism Summer Internship Programme, with students landing employment opportunities. The Board says the programme has delivered impactful results for Virgin Islands youth and the Territory’s leading industry, tourism. The programme was designed to give participants hands-on training and … Continued

DELILAH PEASE MAKES HISTORY AS BVI’S FIRST PAN AMERICAN SQUASH CHAMPION

The British Virgin Islands is celebrating a historic sporting achievement after 11-year-old squash prodigy Delilah Pease captured the territory’s first-ever title at the Pan American Squash Championships in Guatemala. Competing in the Under-13 category, Pease defeated opponents from Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, El Salvador, Mexico and Guatemala without dropping a single game, an achievement … Continued

Pageantry

Miss BVI to participate in Miss OECS Pageant on January 30th

Miss BVI 2025 Donyelle Hodge is getting ready for her first regional pageant since she won the title locally. The Miss OECS Pageant 2026 is set for January 30th in Dominica under theme, ‘Crowning Radiance, Embracing Unity. Donyelle is among four young women from the OECS, namely, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica and St. Vincent … Continued

MISS BVI PAGEANT CANCELLED FOR 2025, RETURN EXPECTED IN 2026

The Miss BVI Pageant, a staple of Virgin Islands culture, will not be held in 2025, as announced today in a statement from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development. The pageant’s cancellation has been attributed to challenging circumstances around the event’s logistics, which include adequate participation and planning timelines. However, Jr Minister for … Continued

DETROY HECTOR & KIA-MARIE BREWLEY CROWNED AT LITTLE MR. & MISS HAWK PRIDE PAGEANT 

The inaugural Little Mr. and Miss Hawk Pride Pageant held by the Enis Adams Primary School took place this past weekend. The pageant, which featured young students from the school, was made possible by the generous support of attendees, sponsors, and the school’s dedicated parents. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored, … Continued