Category: CANA News

The chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Special Ministerial Task force on Food Production and Food Security (MTF),Zulfikar Mustapha, says the first phase of the CARICOM’s Agri-Food Systems Strategy, has clearly demonstrated what the region can achieve when working together to achieve a common goal.

The Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), Ministers of Agriculture from across the Caribbean have endorsed the ’25 by 2025 + 5′ Implementation Plan which forms part of CARICOM’s Agri-Food Systems Strategy commonly known as the Vision 25 by 2025 Initiative.

Mustapha told the gathering of regional officials that despite the challenges of climate change, rising input costs, and global market shocks, CARICOM countries have recorded significant progress.

‘At the regional level, the data shows, there has been increasingly stronger growth year-on-year for the achievement rate of our production targets we had set ourselves for 2025 , in 2022, the region’s achievement rate was 57 percent, in 2023 it was 70 per cent and 2024 it was 82 per cent, giving an overall growth in production of 23.1 per cent between 2022 to 2024’

He said accelerated production growth has been achieved with 8.9 per cent and 13 per cent registered between 2022 -2023 and 2023 – 2024 respectively.

Mustapha also said the extension of the initiative to 2030 gives the region an opportunity to consolidate its gains, scale up production, and deepen regional cooperation, noting that under 25 by 2025+5, ‘we are collectively targeting 4.3 million tonnes of regional food production by 2030.

‘This planned sustained expansion in regional production, will directly contribute to the region’s programme of reducing the regional food import bill, scaling up capacity for tapping in to intra-regional trade opportunities, and improving technical cooperation across CARICOM.’

The Guyana Agriculture Minister urged member states to recognise that the success of the initiative was heavily dependent on meaningful partnerships as well as the removal of barriers to intra-regional trade and the strengthening of other systems and providing meaningful support for food producers.

‘For Guyana, we are fully committed to playing a leading role. Our national targets for 2030 include more than one million tonnes of rice, nearly half a million tonnes of vegetables, 300,000 tonnes of coconut, and over 100,000 tonnes of poultry. We are also scaling up production of corn, soy, root crops, ginger, turmeric, fruits, honey, and fisheries.

‘These targets are ambitious, but they reflect our determination to ensure that Guyana serves as a reliable hub for regional food supply, processing, and distribution. At the same time, we recognize that success will depend on partnerships.

‘We must continue to engage the regional private sector, international partners, and the diplomatic community to mobilize investment, unlock new markets, and build the technical capacity of our farmers and agri-businesses. Just as important is the removal of barriers to intra-regional trade, the strengthening of our transport and logistics systems, and the provision of financing and fiscal support to our producers,’ he said.

The meeting noted that while import volumes have reduced, global prices have increased, adding that the strategy should be revised to reflect regional and global realities.

The Agri-Food Systems Strategy, primarily implemented to reduce the region’s food import by 25 per cent by the end of 2025 by giving special attention to priority crops and products such as poultry, corn, soya, meat such as goat, sheep, and beef, rice and niche vegetables which are highly imported products in the region was extended to 2030 after several countries’ agriculture sectors were affected by natural disasters.

The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) is appealing to Belizeans to curb various acts of violence here, saying ‘we are increasingly confronted with the painful reality of interpersonal violence in our streets, homes and communities.and sometimes even at our hospital doors.

‘Hospitals are meant to be places of healing. Yet, too often, we are forced to act as the final battleground where the consequences of violence arrive in blood, trauma and death especially experienced over this past week. No amount of medical skill can fully mend the physical and emotional scars caused by inter-personal violence,’ the KHMH said in a statement.

It said that as the national referral hospital for Belize its doctors, nurses, and staff dedicate themselves every day to saving lives, comforting families, and restoring health.

‘In the aftermath of violence .we see the broken bodies, torn by bullets, knives, and fists. We see the pain and suffering on the faces of families waiting anxiously and in fear for news of a loved one in our operating theaters. We see the toll it takes on our doctors, nurses, Security personnel and staff who fight to preserve life against overwhelming odds.’

The hospital said every bullet fired and stab wound creates ‘indiscriminate ripples that extend far beyond its target to families, health workers, police officers and the nation as a whole.

‘Together, we must address the roots of violence and protect life. We call on every member of the public to join us in doing their part in being a part of the solution to this violence plaguing our community.

‘Violence does not solve problems. It tears communities and families apart, endangers children, traumatizes survivors, and overwhelms our health systems. We make this urgent appeal,’ the KHMH said.

‘Help us keep the national referral hospital a place of healing, not fear. Together, Belize can curb interpersonal violence. Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and more hopeful nation,’ it added.

The statement by the hospital comes as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country continues to register various cats of violent crimes, with a 28-year-old man being the latest fatality, while a toddler and two other men remain hospitalised, following a shooting incident in the capital.

Gun violence has gripped the area over the last seven days, leading to multiple deaths and injuries. Police said in the latest incident, a gunman fired upon a group of people who were socialising in front of an apartment building, killing Dane Gillett and injuring Antuan Rivero, 26, and 28 -year-old Francis Nolberto. A woman sitting outside with her two-year-old nephew watched in horror as the child was struck by a single bullet in the back.

During the first six months of this year, Belize recorded 41 murders compared to 58 in 2024.

The following is the CANANews and SPORTS Schedule for Friday, October 3, 2025.

GEORGETOWN – Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has dismissed reports that Guyana is facing a foreign exchange crisis, saying that the recent increase in demand for United States dollars is largely linked to massive capital projects being executed in the oil-rich country.

BELMOPAN – The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) is appealing to Belizeans to curb various acts of violence here, saying ‘we are increasingly confronted with the painful reality of interpersonal violence in our streets, homes and communities.and sometimes even at our hospital doors.

BRIDGETOWN – Barbados and Dominica have signed a landmark agreement to collaborate on promoting their tourism products and offering enhanced multi-destination packages.

NASSAU -The leader of the main opposition Free National Movement (FNM), Michael Pintard, is calling on Prime Minister Philip to announce a date for the general election rather than hold a by-election to replace the Environment and Natural Resources Minister, Vaughn Miller, who died last weekend.

GEORGETOWN – The chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Special Ministerial Task force on Food Production and Food Security (MTF),Zulfikar Mustapha, says the first phase of the CARICOM’s Agri-Food Systems Strategy, has clearly demonstrated what the region can achieve when working together to achieve a common goal.

SPORTS:

AHMEDABAD – Centuries by Dhruv Jurel, Ravendra Jadeja and KL Rahul, have left West Indies with a herculean task if they are to avoid a heavy defeat against India in the opening Test match at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Barbados and Dominica have signed a landmark agreement to collaborate on promoting their tourism products and offering enhanced multi-destination packages.

The partnership was signed at the on going State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) between the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) and Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) promoting sustainable tourism, and developing new vacation experiences for travellers.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishes a joint framework for cooperation, focusing on marketing, knowledge exchange, and enhancing visitor experiences across both destinations.

Tourism officials say this collaboration is especially timely as the Caribbean continues to attract travellers from Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Latin America seeking diverse and enriching experiences.

BTMI chief executive officer, Andrea Franklin, and the DDA counterpart, Marva Williams, signed on behalf of their organisations with Franklin acknowledging Barbados’ reputation as a tourism leader, stressing that the MOU would be mutually beneficial, emphasising the need for creative collaboration and regional unity.

‘Dominica may see Barbados as a tourism ‘grandparent,’ but there’s so much we can learn from each other. Barbados is proud to be the premier home port cruising destination in the region, and we see this as an opportunity to attract more business to neighbouring islands as well,’ Franklin said.

She said that the MOU serves as a stepping stone and could open doors to similar agreements with other islands.

‘When it comes to attracting airlift to the region, it’s vital that we stop viewing ourselves as individual countries competing for flights. Instead, we must work together to bring more airlift into the Caribbean. If Barbados serves as the hub, we should channel that connectivity to our sister islands, like Dominica, ensuring all destinations benefit.

‘Our teams will meet to strategise on marketing and to engage airlines and cruise lines, ensuring we maximise the benefits of this partnership. We’re especially excited to collaborate in areas such as sports, eco-tourism, and sustainable tourism, all of which are essential to the future of Caribbean travel ‘ Franklin said.

Williams in her remarks, underscored the value in leveraging the already strong relationship between the nations. They intend to ensure it benefits both destinations financially.

‘This collaboration is part of a larger conversation, and we look forward to learning from Barbados, which will help build greater awareness and create a ripple effect on the GDP and economic opportunities for both our countries,’ Williams said.

‘We all have unique attributes to offer, and this partnership isn’t just about tourism; it’s about exploring opportunities in other industries, such as manufacturing, that can benefit both nations. Improving air access is essential so that our people can move around the Caribbean efficiently and effectively,’ she added.

The key areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement include, curating and promoting multi-destination tourism packages that highlight the unique cultural, eco-tourism, adventure, and wellness offerings of Barbados and Dominica as well as supporting the development of air and cruise connections to facilitate seamless travel between islands.

In addition, the MOU allows for coordinating media exchanges, media familiarisation tours, joint training, and public relations events to raise the profile of both destinations globally and sharing aring expertise in sustainable tourism and product enhancement to ensure lasting benefits for local communities and the environment.

Historically, Caribbean nations have recognised the value of working together to attract long-haul visitors, allowing travellers to experience the region’s diversity in a single trip.

The BTMI’s Director (Caribbean) Graham Clarke said that the new MOU builds on this tradition.

‘Today’s global travellers are seeking value-added experiences and deeper engagement with local communities. This collaboration with the Nature Isle adds a unique dimension to the Barbados tourism product, and we believe Dominica will benefit in the same way. We’re excited for what this partnership means, not just for our tourism sectors, but for visitors, who will enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences across both destinations,’ Clarke said.

A joint working group will oversee the implementation of the MOU, with biannual progress reviews and the development of a detailed action plan to ensure the partnership achieves its objectives.

Both parties have agreed that each will bear its own implementation costs, with joint initiatives subject to separate funding agreements as needed.

A 24-year-old British man will return to court on October 16, after appearing in court charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, attempting to export cocaine, and conspiracy to export cocaine.

The court heard that Isun Shaka Haywood, a delivery driver of a London address, was held at the Norman Manley airport in Kingston on August 4, after the alleged drugs were found in his suitcase.

He was denied bail when he appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court.

The prosecution alleges that Haywood arrived at the Norman Manley International to board an outgoing flight to Toronto, Canada. But he was interviewed by the police and his suitcase was subsequently searched.

The state alleges that several rectangular packages containing a white powdery substance resembling cocaine were found and that the British nationals was arrested on suspicion of breaches of the Dangerous Drug Act.

The parcels, which weighed 10 pounds 6.21 ounces, were seized and taken to the government’s forensic lab for analysis. Tests reveal that the substance was cocaine

Scoreboard of the second day of the first Test between India and West Indies here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday.

WEST INDIES 1st innings 162

INDIA 1st innings

(overnight 121 for two)

Yashasvi Jaiswal c +Hope b Seales 36

KL Rahul c Greaves b Chase 100

Sai Sudharsan lbw b Chase 7

*Shubman Gill c Greaves b Chase 50

+Dhruv Jurel c +Hope b Pierre 125

Ravindra Jadeja not out 104

Washington Sundar not out 9

Extras (b12, lb3, nb1, w1) 17

TOTAL (five wickets; 128 overs) 448

Yet to bat: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Fall of wickets: 1-68, 2-90, 3-188, 4-218, 5-424.

Bowling: Seales 19-2-53-1, Layne 15-0-38-0, Greaves 12-4-59-0, Warrican 29-5-102-1, Pierre 29-1-91-1, Chase 24-3-90-2.

Toss: West Indies elected to bat after winning the toss.

Position: India lead West Indies by 286 runs with five wickets remaining.

Umpires: Alex Wharf, Richard Illingworth.

TV Umpire: Paul Reiffel.

Reserve Umpire: Jayaraman Madanagopal.

Match Referee: Andy Pycroft.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$160 million loan to support The Bahamas in enhancing its disaster-risk management.

The Washington-based financial institution said that the funding is the second loan in a series of two with the first, approved in 2023, which focused on establishing the legal structure for disaster-risk management.

It led to the passage of the Disaster Risk Management Act.

The second loan will allow The Bahamas to design and adopt the core policy instruments created by that law, such as national standards for humanitarian assistance, a comprehensive financial strategy for disaster management, and reference parameters for disaster management.

It will also enable the Bahamian authorities to better identify and reduce risks and improve disaster preparedness and recovery planning.

Under the programme, the Bahamian authorities plan to create an information system based on past disasters and projected scenarios to improve risk informed decision making and preparedness.

Additionally, the programme will train public officials in risk assessment to ensure that disaster resilience is progressively integrated into new public infrastructure.

The Bahamas is among the countries in the region most exposed to natural disasters. In the last 25 years, it has experienced 15 major events, mostly hurricanes.

The IDB said that the programme will benefit the approximately 390,000 residents across all the islands of The Bahamas, which are exposed to the effects of tropical storms and hurricanes.

The IDB loan has a 20-year repayment term, a 5.5-year grace period, and an interest rate based on the secured overnight financing rate (SOFR).

India trail West Indies by 41 runs with eight wickets remaining after reaching 121 for two at the close of play on the opening day of the first Test here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday.

Scores

WEST INDIES 162 in 44.1 overs (Justin Greaves 32, Shai Hope 26, Roston Chase 24, Brandon King 13, Alick Athanaze 12, Khary Pierre 11; Mohammed Siraj 4-40, Jasprit Bumrah 3-42, Kuldeep Yadav 2-25).

INDIA 121-2 in 38 overs (KL Rahul 53 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 36, Shubman Gill 18 not out).

The opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has reaffirmed its ‘complete confidence’ in its leader, Aubrey Norton, despite the party’s devastating performance in the September 1 general and regional elections.

The PNCR, which headed the coalition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) received 77,000 votes and 12 seats in the National Assembly, losing its status as the main opposition in the legislative chambers to the newly formed We Invest In Nationhood (WIN) political party that won 16 seats.

Aubrey Norton

The elections were won by the ruing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) that won a second consecutive victory at the polls and now controls 36 of the 65 seats in the Parliament.

In a statement, the PNCR said that its Central Executive Committee (CEC) met on Wednesday for ‘its first full meeting’ since the elections ‘to review, among other matters, the Party’s strategic direction and immediate courses of action.

‘During the meeting, the CEC addressed a series of recent developments, including, but not limited to, the resignation of certain CEC members, and therefore confirmed the elevation of two new members to the CEC.’

The statement said that the ‘CEC reaffirmed its complete confidence in the leadership of Aubrey C. Norton and supports his continued role as the Leader of the PNCR during the rebuilding process’.

The statement said that the CEC emphasised ‘that its Leader can only be removed at a duly convened Party Congress, in accordance with the Party’s constitution.

‘In this connection, the CEC rejects any notion that there is trouble within the PNCR’s camp and assures the Party’s membership that public grievances by a few persons will not defeat the Party’s reactivation of political will and resilience.

‘The PNCR remains committed to strengthening its organisational structure, engaging in community outreach to strengthen its membership, in pursuit of its fearless aspiration for the growth of the Guyanese people,’ the statement added.

India’s fast bowling pair of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah tore through the West Indies’ batting to put the home side in the ascendancy after the opening day of the first Test here on Thursday.

Siraj carved up the top order on his way to a four-wicket haul, while Bumrah cleaned up the tail as the visitors were routed for a meagre 162 runs in 44.1 overs after winning the toss and choosing to bat at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Opener KL Rahul then scored an unbeaten half century to propel India to 121 for two at the close of play, just 41 runs behind the Windies’ total with eight wickets in hand.

While much of the talk before the start of the series focused on the loss of the visitors’ fast bowling duo of Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph to injuries, once again it was the West Indies’ fragile batting that took centre stage on the opening day.

Their new-look opening pair of John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul didn’t last long, with the latter being dismissed for a duck after gloving Siraj down the leg side where wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel took a good catch with 12 runs on the board.

Campbell hit Bumrah for two boundaries in the day’s third over, but the pacer got his revenge when he had the left hander caught behind for eight after a review, with the replay showing the ball had taken a thin outside edge on its way through to the keeper, to leave the visitors 20 for two. Brandon King, as usual, looked sublime in his brief stay at the crease, but after collecting three boundaries off Siraj in his knock of 13 off 15 balls, he unwisely chose to shoulder arms to an inswinger from the same bowler and lost his middle stump, as the Windies slid to 39 for three.

Three runs later, Siraj was back in the thick of things, this time drawing an expansive drive from Alick Athanaze that flew off the outside edge and safely into the hands of Rahul at second slip.

Skipper Roston Chase and Shai Hope tried their best to steady the innings during a 48-run partnership.

The pair looked set to take their side to lunch without any further losses, but with just a few balls remaining before the interval, Hope missed his intended cover drive off left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav and was bowled for 26, to see the West Indies stumble to lunch at 90 for five.

Chase didn’t last long after the resumption, edging a beautiful delivery from Siraj that seamed away behind to the keeper, to be out for 24.

Justin Greaves, who topscored with 32 and debutant Khary Pierre, who made 11, put on 39 runs for the seventh wicket, but once Pierre was trapped lbw by off spinner Washington Sundar the end came swiftly with Bumrah bowling Greaves and Johann Layne with yorkers, while Yadav accounted for the wicket of Jomel Warrican.

Siraj ended with figures of 4-40, Bumrah took 3-42 and Yadav supported with 2-25.

India’s opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rahul then gave them a solid foundation during an opening stand of 68.

Pacer Jayden Seales eventually got the breakthrough for the Windies when he had Jaiswal caught behind attempting a cut shot for 36.

Chase then trapped Sai Sudharsan cheaply for seven with the score on 90, but Rahul and captain Shubman Gill weathered the storm during an unbroken partnership of 31 for the third wicket.

Rahul brought up his 20th Test half century just before the close with a single to long on off the bowling of Chase.

He finished the day unbeaten on 53 off 114 balls with six fours, while Gill is 18 not out.