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The Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Hon. Anthony Samora Charles, has declared his full support for the Government of Dominica’s Electoral Reform Bills, which were presented for their second and third readings in Parliament on Wednesday."I stand for this bill to be passed, because we have to start somewhere. We have to give and take and this is not about political parties showing how strong they are or the government flexing their muscles. This is about democracy,” he stated. “We need to work together, simple.” He added. The Government introduced three key pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral system: the Registration of Electors Bill & Regulations (2024), the House of Assembly (Elections) & Registration Bill (2024), and the Electoral Commission Bill (2024).These measures are designed to enhance electoral integrity, increase transparency and modernise voting procedures in line with international best practices. Among new measures, the Registration of Electors Act provides for the introduction of mandatory voter confirmation within a 12-month period, requiring individuals to present valid documentation for verification. Additionally, Voter Identification Cards will be issued, incorporating key identifying information such as a photograph and advanced security features.

The Roosevelt Skerrit Portsmouth Bombers FC have emerged victorious as the 2024/2025 DFA Women Premier League Champions, finishing at the top of the table with an impressive 38 points — edging out Goodwill Runners by a single point, who finished with 37 points. The Bombers completed an outstanding season, playing 16 games, winning 12, drawing 2, and losing 2. They showcased a powerful attack, scoring a league-best 67 goals, while also boasting the strongest defense by conceding only 11 goals — finishing with an impressive +54 goal difference. In their final match against Harlem United FC, Le'Myah Forde and Ciara Lee delivered decisive performances, scoring one goal each to secure the Bombers' place at the summit of Dominican women’s football. “We are incredibly proud of our players' dedication and heart throughout this season,” said Henrich Anselm, Head Coach of the Portsmouth Bombers FC. “This victory reflects their hard work, teamwork, and passion for the game. It’s a win for Portsmouth, our fans, and all young girls inspired to play football.” The Bombers’ victory not only marks a major achievement for the club but also highlights the continued rise and success of women’s football in Dominica.

The Government of Dominica wishes to clarify that it has not received any official communication from the United States regarding a draft list of 43 countries recommended for visa restrictions. Following media reports indicating that Dominica is on a "Yellow" list and will be given 60 days to address certain concerns, the Government has instructed its Ambassador to the United States, based in Washington, D.C., to make the necessary inquiries seeking clarification. Dominica values its longstanding and cordial relationship with the United States and is committed to strengthening this partnership. The Government of Dominica will remain actively engaged in this matter and provide more information as it becomes available.

The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) announces the winners of Mas Domnik 2025, Dominica’s premier carnival celebration, which took place on March 3 and 4. This year’s festivities were a resounding success, showcasing the island’s authentic culture, stunning costumes, and infectious rhythms. The event captivated audiences with its dynamic parades and performances, solidifying Dominica’s position as a leading destination for exciting and engaging experiences. Highlights of Mas Domnik 2025 Winners Opening Parade: ● Best Carnival Business Float: ● 1 st Place: AID Bank ● 2 nd Place: Do It Centre ● 3 rd Place: Fine Foods Inc. ● 4 th Place: DASPA ● Special Flag Wavers Group Award: NBD Flag Wavers Carnival Monday-Jou Ouvè: ● First Lapo Kabwit Band: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Lapo Kabwit with the Largest Following: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Best Male: Plague Doctor- Shepherd Fregiste ● Best Female: Adasa Davis- Malificent ● Best Sennsé: Dennison ‘Dice’ Joseph- Gold Devil ● Largest Ole Mas Group: Chou Poul ● Best Jou ouvè Costume Group: Disco Bachanal ● Lapo Kabwit with Most Lavwé: New Town Lapo Kabwit ● Best Ole Mas Band: Chou Poul ● Longest Lapo Kabwit: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Largest Lapo Kabwit: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Best Jou ouvè Group: Lumination- The Rebirth- Signal Band ● Best Theatrical Group: Jean Bois- Victims of Dengue ● Best Pappy Show Wedding: Chou Poul ● Best Jou ouvè Gang (less than 6): Headless Horse Man- Marvin Carbon Carnival Monday Ole Mas Parade: ● Best Ole Mas Band ● 1 st Place: Good Hope Darkies ● 2 nd Place: Creole Sensay ● 3 rd Place: Thunderbirds- Faces of Sennsé ● Best Creative Individual Male: Dennison ‘Dice’ Joseph- Gold Devil ● Best Creative Individual Female: Nathalia Paul- Floral Sennsé Carnival Monday Youth Mas Parade: ● Children Band of The Year  1 st Place: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group  2 nd Place: Ballon Blast ● Children King of the Band: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group ● Children Queen of the Band: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group ● Best Children Float  ● 1st Place: Ballon Blast ● 2nd Place: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group Carnival Monday T-Shirt Plus Bands: ● Carnival Monday T-shirt Plus Band: ●  1 st Place: Signal Band-Luminites ●  2 nd Place: TK Mega Monday ●  3 rd Place: Klubirds ● Special Award for Carnival Spirit: Grand Bay Sennsé Carnival Tuesday Parade Costume Bands: ● Contemporary Band of the Year ● 1st Place: Pulse Experience ● 2nd Place: Fantacy Tribe ● 3rd Place: Hysteria Mas ● Traditional Band of the Year  ●  1st Place: Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●  2nd Place: Thunderbirds- Face of Sen ●  3rd Place: Chou Poul ● Traditional King of the Band: Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Traditional King of the Band : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Traditional Queen of the Band : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Contemporary King of the Band : Hysteria Mas ●        Contemporary Queen of the Band : Hysteria Mas ●        People’s Choice Contemporary Band of the Year ( online voting ) : Fantacy Tribe   Band of the Year 2025 : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers- Brick by Beat   Charlene White-Christian, Road Parade Coordinator, expressed her pride in the event, stating: “This year’s road parade was a true celebration of creativity and dedication. From the stunning costumes to the rhythmic beats, every moment reflected the hard work of our masqueraders and organizers. It’s inspiring to see how carnival brings people together, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. Congratulations to everyone who made this possible—your efforts have set a high standard for the future of Mas Domnik,” said Charlene White-Christian, Chairperson, Carnival Road Parade Committee. Ayodele Andrew, Festivals and Events Manager at DDA, added: “ Mas Domnik 2025 truly represented Dominica—safe, authentic, inclusive, and accessible to all.  This year, we saw families, friends, and visitors come together to enjoy our culture in a welcoming and secure environment. The success of this event is a result of the collective effort of our sponsors, partners, and the entire community. Together, we’ve created something special, and I’m excited to see what we’ll achieve next year,” said Ayodele Andrew, Festivals and Events Manager, Discover Dominica Authority. The Discover Dominica Authority extends its gratitude to the sponsors whose support made Mas Domnik 2025 possible. Special thanks to the Government of Dominica, the presenting sponsor, as well as Flow Dominica, Belfast Estate, Josephine Gabriel & Co Ltd, Rubis Dominica, Central Cooperative Credit Union, National Bank of Dominica, Dominica National Lottery, Roseau South Constituency, Whitchurch Insurance & Travel, Big Edge Financial, Shammah Laurent, Tres Chic, Ngaska, Jaydees Natural, Alliance Francaise, Lovelee Things, Nature Blends, HHV Whitchurch, Eklat Novelties, Alliance Francaise, OECS Pearl, Kairi, Vibes, Q95 FM, Emo News, DBS, GIS, and Plant Scape. Mas Domnik 2025 was a celebration of Dominica’s rich traditions and creativity. The DDA congratulates all winners, participants, and organizers for their contributions to this year’s event.

The Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) is making significant progress toward completing the electricity rate review as it prepares for a final stakeholder consultation. The Commission held its first press conference of 2025 on Wednesday, March 12, providing a status update on the ongoing rate review for Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC). Executive Director of IRC, Justinn Kase informed the media that DOMLEC has submitted its Cost-of-Service Study and Rate Proposal for the Commission’s review. “So far, the IRC has completed a detailed evaluation of DOMLEC’s depreciation of fixed assets, rate of return for investors, revenue requirement, and investment plan. As part of this review, we hosted three stakeholder consultations to ensure consumer voices were heard. From these consultations, we have finalized decisions on four critical tariff submissions by DOMLEC. "In addition, DOMLEC has submitted its two final documents for review—the Cost-of-Service Study and the Rate Proposal. Further public consultations will be required before any approval of new rates,” Mr. Kase explained. Key considerations during the tariff review include fuel costs, renewable energy integration, operational efficiencies, and the impact of inflation. Mr. Kase also emphasized that the IRC remains committed to protecting consumers from unnecessary rate increases, while ensuring DOMLEC can maintain and improve service reliability. The rate review process will conclude with the IRC’s final decisions on DOMLEC’s Cost-of- Service Study and Rate Proposal. Before that, the Commission will invite stakeholders to provide feedback. The dates for the consultation period will be announced later. …ENDS…

The Office of the Honorable Anthony Samora Charles, Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, is pleased to advise that Hon. Charles attended the high-level consultation on the establishment of a Regional Regulatory Body for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programmes, held on March 12, 2025, at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Agency Office in Roseau. The consultation, organized by the ECCB and the Interim Regulatory Commission (IRC), featured insightful presentations from key regional stakeholders, including Mr. Timothy N. J. Antoine, Governor of the ECCB. The initiative seeks to enhance the transparency, accountability, and sustainability of CBI programs across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) member states. Hon. Charles has expressed his strong support for the establishment of this regulatory body, emphasizing that the CBI Program remains a vital economic lifeline for ECCU member states. He believes that a well-regulated framework will further strengthen the integrity of the program, protect it from external threats, and mitigate risks associated with mismanagement and corruption. "The Citizenship by Investment Program has been instrumental in the economic resilience of our region, funding key national development projects and social initiatives. A unified regulatory body will not only ensure best practices but also preserve international confidence in our CBI programs," Hon. Charles states. As an advocate for responsible governance and economic sustainability, Hon. Charles reaffirmed his commitment to policies that foster growth and prosperity for the people of Dominica, particularly the Marigot Constituency. He also called on policymakers across party lines to support this initiative, recognizing its long-term benefits for regional development.

In a defiant stance that echoes the region's historical struggles for sovereignty, Caribbean leaders are pushing back against U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's threats to revoke visas from officials who support Cuba's medical missions program, with several prime ministers declaring they would rather forfeit their access to American soil than compromise healthcare for their citizens. "I will prefer to lose my US visa than to have 60 poor and working people die," declared St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, highlighting the critical dialysis treatments that Cuban doctors provide to patients in his nation.   His sentiment was swiftly echoed by Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who proclaimed at a recent public event to thunderous applause: "I just came back from California, and if I never go back there again in my life, I will ensure that the sovereignty of Trinidad and Tobago is known to its people and respected by all." The diplomatic standoff escalated last month when Rubio announced an expanded policy targeting what he termed Cuban "forced" labor, particularly focusing on the island nation's overseas medical missions. The policy would impose visa restrictions on current or former Cuban government officials "believed to be responsible for or involved in the Cuban labour export programme," which Rubio characterized as "exploitation of Cuban workers." For Caribbean nations, however, the Cuban medical partnership represents a lifeline. With approximately 24,180 Cuban doctors serving in 56 countries worldwide, their presence has been instrumental in bolstering healthcare systems throughout the region, especially in nations with limited medical infrastructure.   Jamaica's Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith emphasized this reality at a recent press briefing, noting that her island hosts more than 400 Cuban medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, biomedical engineers, and technicians whose services are "of importance to our health care system." Grenada's Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell highlighted the historical context of this support, stating, "We have a legitimate partnership with the government and people of Cuba who have over several decades provided support to the people of Grenada in the medical field." Acknowledging his nation's particular challenges in securing specialist doctors, Mitchell affirmed, "We will continue to support and defend the partnership." The controversy has prompted high-level diplomatic engagement, with foreign ministers from the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently meeting with U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America Mauricio Claver-Carone in Washington, D.C. Guyana's Foreign Minister Hugh Todd acknowledged the importance of the U.S. as "a strategic partner to CARICOM" but stressed that "this very important issue has to be dealt with at the level of heads of government."   Prime Minister Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago pointed out the hypocrisy in the U.S. position, recalling the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic: "Remember what happened during Covid when vaccines were required, and we couldn't buy one even though we had the money? And even where we paid the money, those we paid put us at the back of the line?" He went on to defend his nation's medical staffing practices, explaining that specialists from countries including India, the Philippines, and primarily Cuba are paid "top dollar—equal to local rates," yet his government is "now being accused of taking part in a programme where people are being exploited." According to Commissiong, these leaders responded by asserting their sovereignty: "We are sovereign independent nations, and we will decide for ourselves what nations we will have relations with." Commissiong characterized Rubio's current policy as "part of this continuing U.S. vendetta against Cuba," aimed at "regime change," and referenced a 1960 State Department memo by Deputy Assistant Secretary Lester Mallory, which allegedly acknowledged the popularity of Castro's revolution and proposed making "life uncomfortable for the people in Cuba" by undermining the government. Adding to the regional concerns, Commissiong highlighted that the United States has withdrawn its traditional assistance to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the regional arm of the World Health Organization upon which Caribbean nations depend heavily in matters of health policy etc. "The United States, having withdrawn itself from PAHO, will have a tremendous implication for all of us in the Caribbean, and you now turn around and say we must reject the much needed and critical health assistance being given to us by Cuba!" he remarked incredulously. Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has not remained silent on the matter, accusing Rubio of putting his "personal agenda" ahead of U.S. interests and describing the policy as an "unjustified aggressive measure." As this diplomatic tension unfolds, Caribbean leaders continue to prioritize their nations' healthcare needs and sovereign decision-making, demonstrating that regional solidarity and public health concerns outweigh the threat of U.S. visa restrictions. The stance of these leaders reflects a broader historical pattern of Caribbean resistance to external pressure, particularly when it threatens essential services for their citizens. Site: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/caricom-caribbean-leaders-stand-firm-against-us-visa-threats-over-cuban-medical-program

Discover Dominica Authority announces the launch of ‘Kool Escapes,’ a summer campaign positioning Dominica as the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The initiative will captivate travelers from North America, the United Kingdom, the French West Indies, France, the Commonwealth, and the wider Caribbean. Kool Escapes invites visitors to immerse themselves in Dominica’s breathtaking landscapes and rejuvenating waters, offering unmatched adventures in an unspoiled paradise. The campaign emphasizes Dominica’s Aqua Pillar, reinforcing the island’s reputation as the region's top diving and aquatic adventure destination. Whether diving into colorful marine ecosystems, snorkeling, whale watching, river tubing, kayaking, or exploring waterfalls, visitors will be surrounded by nature’s wonders. From family-friendly activities to group excursions and solo adventures, Dominica caters to all types of travelers, offering diverse experiences that ensure everyone finds their perfect escape. Exclusive travel packages include accommodation, dining, and guided tours, ensuring premium experiences at great value. Direct flights from Miami (American Airlines) and New York/New Jersey (United Airlines), as well as regional connections, make Dominica an easily accessible, adventure-packed getaway. “Dominica is an untapped gem just waiting to be discovered, and ‘Kool Escapes’ captures the true spirit of our island like never before,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority. “From the thrill of our world-class aquatic adventures to the peaceful sanctuary of our lush rainforests, this campaign highlights why Dominica is not just a destination, but the ultimate summer getaway for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and authenticity.” For more information on Kool Escapes’ exclusive deals and booking details, visit discoverdominica.com/en/kool-escapes and follow Discover Dominica on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Plus, find out why Dominica is one of the Best Places to Travel in 2025, according to BBC Travel. Read about it here: https://ww w.bbc.com/travel/article/20250115-the-25-best-places-to-travel-in-2025 .

The 2025 Carnival season in Marigot has been hailed as a resounding success, with thousands of patrons flocking to the community for an exhilarating showcase of culture, music, and tradition. Organizers have expressed immense gratitude to partners, entertainers, and patrons whose contributions helped make this year's events a reality. However, stakeholders are appealing to corporate Dominica for greater equity in sponsorship, ensuring that all communities can continue to contribute meaningfully to the island’s national Carnival product. A Tribute to Cultural Excellence and Community Efforts Parliamentary Representative Anthony Samora Charles extended special commendations to all organizers, including Classique Sounds, Blue Star Productions, Hot & Cold Bar, and Aunty Cheryl’s Kiddies Carnival, which was hosted in honor of the late Carnival enthusiast Cheryl Abraham. He also applauded the dynamic entertainment lineup that featured Big Belly Sounds, Dy Synker, DJ Arputai, Sugar Fire, and Fire Stick, all of whom played a pivotal role in energizing the celebrations. “Marigot continues to shine as a cultural hub, and the efforts of these dedicated organizers and entertainers have truly cemented our place in Dominica’s Carnival landscape,” stated Charles. Event Highlights and Milestones ● Blue Star Jouvert – Organized by Blue Star Productions on Carnival Monday, noted that this year’s Jouvert was a major highlight, attracting massive crowds. Glenroy Linton of Bluestar production noted that the addition of a post-Jouvert cool-down event at the Weirs Hardcourt was well received, adding an extra dimension to the festivities. ● Mudd Mas 2025 – The fourth annual Mudd Mas, hosted by Hot & Cold Bar, delivered an electrifying experience. Sana James, the event’s lead organizer, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success while hinting at improvements for an even bigger fifth edition in 2026. ● Aunty Cheryl’s Kiddies Carnival – While organizers had hoped for even greater participation from parents and children, the event was well attended and deeply appreciated. Big Belly Sounds and other partners were recognized for their role in making the event special for Marigot’s young revelers. This was the 2nd year of its installation being undertaken by Mrs Annika Prosper Xavier and others in Memory of Aunty Cheryl Looking Forward to 2026 With the success of the 2025 festivities, planning has already commenced for the 2026 Carnival season. Organizers remain committed to not only enriching the cultural vibrancy of Marigot but also ensuring that Carnival continues to provide economic benefits for local businesses and the wider community. Marigot: A Pillar of Dominica’s Carnival Heritage Marigot’s Carnival is renowned for its deep cultural roots, particularly in chanté mas and lapo kabwit traditions, which have been central to Dominica’s Carnival experience for over a century. These traditions, passed down through generations, continue to distinguish Marigot as a premier Carnival destination, drawing both locals and visitors to experience the authenticity of its celebrations. As the home of Dominica’s main airport, Douglas-Charles Airport, Marigot is the gateway to the island. Organizers encourage travelers to consider beginning their Carnival experience in Marigot, where they will be welcomed with warmth, hospitality, and an unforgettable cultural showcase. A Call for Greater Corporate Support While Marigot’s Carnival continues to thrive through community-driven initiatives, stakeholders are calling on corporate Dominica to provide more equitable sponsorship opportunities across the Island. Increased financial and logistical support would ensure that villages like Marigot can further enhance their Carnival offerings, benefiting both the cultural and economic landscape of the island. “We have shown what we can achieve with limited resources, but imagine what we could do with broader corporate backing,” said one organizer. “It’s time for all communities to receive equal investment in our national Carnival product.” As the 2025 season comes to a close, Marigot extends a heartfelt thank you to all patrons, supporters, and organizers who contributed to the festivities. The invitation is open for an even bigger and better Carnival in 2026!

Dominica SiFoCol Alumni Association (DSAA) presented to the following students selected by Dominica State College (DSC), with our 2025 Financial Need Scholarship Grant of $12,000, $2,000 per student, at the Dominica State College (DSC), on Tuesday, February 25th 2025, from 11:45am to 12:30pm, in Room BC4 at Upper Campus. Faculty of Applied Art & Technology 1. Kaylan Charles-Mark: Agriculture 2. Kierrah Angol: Electrical engineering Faculty of Arts & Science 3. Dorothy Darroux : Psychology  4. Minicah Bell: Administrative Office Assistant  Faculty of Health Sciences 5. Meriah Valmond: BSC Nursing General Studies 6. Aaliyah Anthony : Pre-Health  This milestone event will mark the official handover of grant support to all of our beneficiaries of our 2024 White Sunset with a Hint of Creole Charity Event, as on Tuesday, January 14th 2025, we donated four laptops, a printer and facilitators training fee, valued at $10,000 for Empowering persons with disabilities through computer literacy and social media skills, to the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD), and $10,000 to Circle of Friends Inc. for Training Special Education Teachers and Parents of Children with Disabilities on the use of the Sexual Health Education Curriculum (SHEC), two of our beneficiaries of our White Sunset with a Hint of Creole Charity Event 2024, selected by an independent committee through our newly formed 2024 application and criteria process, and now a $12,000, $2,000 per student donation to the Dominica State College (DSC), totaling $32,000 back to our Dominican communities. This highlights our collective commitment to students, the youth of Dominica, the Dominica State College (DSC) and its students, empowering local communities and fostering social development in Dominica.

As the vibrant celebrations of Mas Domnik draw to a close, “RAGS” a collaborative effort between Dominicans Gael “Trilla G” Jno. Baptiste and Sheldon “Shelly” Alfred along with St. Vincent’s Gamal “Skinny Fabulous” Doyle, has emerged as the winner of the Bouyon Road March 2025 title. Won by popular vote, the highly infectious track has further cemented Bouyon’s dominance in the Carnival soundscape.   “RAGS” was penned by Trilla G, Shelly and Christon "DJ Oberr" Jno Baptiste and produced by A Plus Musik of Th3rd House Studios in St. Thomas, USVI, where Trilla’s vocals were recorded. The melody was inspired by “Never Enough” from the movie musical The Greatest Showman .  Trilla G recalls the creative process:   “A Plus played a Bouyon beat with the “Never Enough” sample, we changed the lyrics and recorded a first draft since November 2024. Then, International Stephen linked me with Skinny Fabulous who recorded his part at Black Shadow Studios in Miami. I did some additional vocals at 47 Studios in Trinidad and just before the release in February 2025, we got Shelly on the track and he recorded at Signal Band Studio here in Dominica.”   Further contributions to the song came from Dernell “Dernz” Green who mixed and mastered, while M'Kayla Eustache provided backing vocals.   Though released just before the height of the carnival season, the powerhouse collaboration resonated with revelers, igniting a wave of enthusiasm as it featured at various fetes and ultimately on the road Monday and Tuesday.   Traditionally, the Road March title goes to the most-played Calypso on the road. This year that award was copped by Narrin “Trendsetter” Murphy with his song “Dee Pee Pee (DPP).”   While calypso is still a beloved musical artform during carnival, the impact of Bouyon was undeniable throughout Mas Domnik. Trilla G (a former Calypso Monarch himself) performing with Signal Band on both Carnival Monday and Tuesday, saw “RAGS” become one of the most dominant anthems on the road.   Recognising the growing influence of the genre prominent Dominican businessmen, Emile Depooter and Robert Tonge conceptualised and executed the first ever Bouyon Road March Award.   “We were just citizens who thought there should be such an award because of the mileage Bouyon music has made, especially in the past year,” says Depooter. He adds. “I am currently in Antigua, and Bouyon is everywhere – in taxis, on the radio, in restaurants, and at events. The impact is visible, and the artists behind the genre need to be recognised and rewarded.”   Depooter, who has a history of managing popular Bouyon bands WCK and Triple K, further highlighted the importance of such titles to overseas promoters, “These promoters are always asking us who is the Road March winner in Dominica.  They want to see which song and which artist is the most popular. There is a certain weight behind your name that comes with such a title.”   The first Bouyon Road March competition saw 56 entries from popular acts to include Asa Bantan, Khallion, Gwada G, Ebony Empress, Mr. Ridge, and more. Over 300 votes were cast online from March 5th to 7th with the final results being:   1.      “Rags” – Trilla G, Shelly & Skinny Fabulous (108 votes) 2.      “Bye Bye Bye” – Signal Band (62 votes) 3.      “My Band” – Signal Band (29 votes)   Expressing his excitement and gratitude, Trilla G shared via Facebook:   “This victory is not just mine – it belongs to Shelly, our Vincy brother Skinny Fabulous, and every single reveler who jumped, waved, and screamed their hearts out when this song dropped! A-Plus out of the Virgin Islands and Dernz, this win is YOURS too – you both helped craft this masterpiece, and the people have rewarded it with love. To the organizers of this award, THANK YOU for recognizing the energy, passion, and unity that music brings to Carnival.”   Depooter hopes to see this poll taken up by an official entity and organised “more scientifically or professionally next year.”   “RAGS” is definitely riding the wave of recent Bouyon releases by artists such as Sukie Burn Brain, Mr. Ridge, Kenny G, Reo and Signal Band. Trilla G who has had his own popular releases, secured much accolade and exposure with arguably the most popular track from the Caribbean in 2024, “Someone Else” – a collaboration with Litle Boy and Quan. His other releases include “Take Me As I Am” (2025), “Bend Down” (2024), “Stop Call My Name” (2024). This year he collaborated with Trinidad's Naila Blackman (“Try Me”) and hopes to see more regional collaborations in 2024.   Shelly, a former Junior Calypso Monarch, is the lead vocalist for Signal Band, who has been dominating the Bouyon landscape with melodic, well-penned songs. As a prolific songwriter, not just for himself but other Bouyon and Calypso artists, he has imprinted his name in the Bouyon history books. For him this win is nothing short of “historic.”   With “RAGS” taking the 2025 Bouyon Road March crown, Trilla G and Shelly have once again proven the global reach and power of Bouyon music. As the genre continues to gain traction beyond Dominica’s shores, this milestone underscores its cultural and economic significance and limitless potential.   -END- Submitted by: OnTarget

Pauline John: A Woman’s Legacy in Farming As International Women's Day approaches, we celebrate the resilience and dedication of women in agriculture. One such woman is Pauline John-Denis, a seasoned farmer, from the community of Grand Bay, who has dedicated her life to working the land. Her story reflects both the challenges and triumphs of women in farming, shedding light on the evolution of agriculture and the vital role women continue to play in it. Pauline John-Denis has been farming since she was young, learning the trade from her father. “ I was going to school, but my father taught me,” she recalls. Farming was never just a job for her— it was a passion. “Did you always want to be a farmer?” she was asked. Without hesitation, she replied, “Always, always. I love farming. I don’t know why, but I love farming.” For John-Denis , farming is not just about making a profit but about feeding her family and ensuring sustainability. “My message to women: they must farm for their family,” she asserts. She believes that farming is an essential practice for self-sufficiency and survival. “For you to grow, you grow to eat or for money,” she says, emphasizing the dual role of agriculture in sustenance and economic empowerment. John-Denis takes immense pride in her crops, especially potatoes, dasheen, and plantains. “I love potatoes. I can boil potatoes with some milk. I put in milk with it, while crushing it, and then I can eat,” she shares with enthusiasm. Her connection to the land is evident in her commitment to growing nutritious food and maintaining agricultural traditions. Like many women in agriculture, John-Denis has faced significant challenges, including physical demands, economic hardships, and recovery from natural disasters. One of the biggest obstacles she encountered was rebuilding after a hurricane. “After the hurricane [Hurricane Maria 2017], it was dangerous because trees would fall. I had to pay somebody to clean up for me, clean them properly,” she recalls. Her resilience is evident in how she overcame these setbacks. Despite an injury to her knee, she continues to work the land. “I knocked it on my step to go downstairs. I went to the hospital, they gave me something to hold it up, and I keep working,” she says. Agriculture has transformed significantly over the years, and John-Denis has witnessed these changes firsthand. She observes that fewer young people are interested in the trade. “Some people don’t want to work. They don’t want to make farming. They rather stay on the road” she says, lamenting the decline of farming among younger generations. She believes that younger individuals should appreciate the value of farming, not just for economic gain but for self-reliance. “When your mother and your father are gone, what they showed you, you should have it in mind to do it,” she advises. Her words serve as a call to action for young people to embrace agriculture as a means of sustaining themselves and their communities. John-Denis has a powerful message for women: “You must farm for your family.” She believes that women should take pride in cultivating the land. Pauline John-Denis’s call for women to embrace farming extends beyond traditional crops. Women across various sectors of agriculture are proving their resilience and innovation. One such woman is Charlene Xavier, a poultry farmer who has turned a small venture into a thriving business. Charlene Xavier “Poultry Farmer” As a poultry farmer and the owner of Allen’s Poultry in the Roseau Valley, her journey, which began with just 40 layers as a small venture, has now expanded to 300 birds, with aspirations for even greater growth. She took over the business from her stepfather who asked her to keep the name, his legacy. Xavier’s day begins before the sun rises. At 6:15 AM, she visits her farm, ensuring that the lights, which are left on at night to aid production, are in place. “When I wake up, I visit the farm about 6:15am then I put up the lights, because I leave lights on at nights for them. This helps with their production. I check around the farm. I have two cages, white layers and brown layers. I feed them, give them water, whatever they need.” Collecting eggs is another crucial part of her routine, ensuring that production remains steady. By midday, she repeats the process to maintain the well-being of her flock. As dusk approaches, she returns to the farm to turn the lights back on and prepare for the next cycle. With the support of a small but efficient team, she maintains a clean and organized farm, ensuring the highest standards of egg production. Like many farmers, Xavier faces significant challenges in her work. One of the most persistent issues is her chickens pecking at their own eggs, which leads to loss of productivity. To counter this, she ensures that egg boxes are well-cushioned with shavings, minimizing the chances of eggs cracking and deterring the birds from pecking at them. Another major concern for Xavier and other poultry farmers is the potential threat of avian influenza, which has been affecting poultry farms in the United States. Financial challenges also remain a hurdle, as scaling up production requires significant investment. Despite these challenges, Xavier continues to push forward, proving that with resilience and strategic problem-solving, women in agriculture can overcome barriers and thrive. Xavier is committed to sustainability and efficiency in her farm operations. She uses energy-saving lighting at night to enhance productivity while reducing electricity costs. To optimize feeding, she utilizes guttering systems, ensuring that food and water are evenly distributed. Additionally, she engages in waste recycling by selling poultry manure to other farmers, promoting a circular economy within the agricultural sector. Zethra Baron “Breaking Barriers in the Blue Economy” In the ever-evolving landscape of the blue economy, one name stands out in Dominica: Zethra Baron. A fisheries liaison officer with the Ministry of Agriculture, Blue, and Green Economy, and the visionary entrepreneur behind Seafood Mistress, Baron is making waves in a traditionally male-dominated subsector. For women venturing into ocean-based industries, Baron’s message is clear—keep pushing, keep breaking barriers, and, most importantly, build alliances with other women. “To my fellow sisters in ocean-based industries, my advice to you is to keep pushing. Keep breaking those areas. Keep partnering with sisters, both nationally, internationally, and regionally. They are the ones who can be your mentors, the best ones at that,” she shared. Despite the challenges women face in these industries—financial constraints, gender biases, and operational hurdles—Baron’s journey proves that success is possible with determination, mentorship, and support systems. “I registered Seafood Mistress in 2020 and launched operations in 2022. It wasn’t a walk in the park,” she admitted. “You have all those challenges, but I’m here to tell you that you can. If you stick to your goal, have discipline, and maintain your vision, you will succeed.” As a fisheries liaison officer, Baron understands the complexities of policy and regulation in the blue economy. She stresses the importance of community engagement, particularly in coastal areas, to ensure sustainability efforts are both understood and adhered to. “Policy and regulation can only work effectively if everyone is considered, especially persons within coastal communities. Communication is key—if people don’t know what the policies are, how can they abide by them?” Beyond her governmental role, Baron integrates sustainability into her business model. Seafood Mistress prioritizes sourcing from fishers who use sustainable practices and aims to transition to eco-friendly packaging and renewable energy solutions. “The goal is to have full eco-friendly packaging and operate on solar electricity. Economic growth and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand,” she affirmed. A key takeaway from Baron’s journey is the necessity for women to uplift and support each other. “I want to commend sisters like myself who continue to work in male-dominated sectors, encourage them to keep fighting, and to be a support and strength to other sisters like me and those to come.” Her advocacy extends beyond business and policy; she actively engages with schools, educating young students on marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices. Through these initiatives, she hopes to inspire the next generation of women in the blue economy. Just as Baron is committed to empowering the next generation in the blue economy, Callister Sango is reshaping the agricultural sector through networking and innovation. Through her company, Agrivertise, Sango has created a platform that bridges the gap between farmers and buyers, ensuring that local producers—especially women—have greater access to markets and opportunities. Callister Sango: “Empowering Women in Agriculture Through Agrivertise” Growing up in the farming community of Penville, Callister Sango was exposed to agriculture from an early age. Farming was not just an occupation for the people in her village—it was a way of life. When she attended college and explored her career options, she gravitated toward agriculture, seeing it as a field with vast opportunities beyond traditional roles. "I did not want to settle for just administrative work. I felt like I was more than that, and agriculture challenged me in ways that excited me," Sango explains. During her studies, she discovered a strong interest in the sales and marketing aspect of agriculture. This passion led to her field research project, where she investigated the challenges that farmers faced in accessing markets. What she found was a gap in the system—farmers struggled to connect with buyers, often missing out on potential revenue. Seeing an opportunity to solve this issue, Sango launched Agrivertise, an online agricultural marketplace dedicated to making these connections seamless. Agrivertise provides a platform where farmers can list their available products, and buyers can easily find and purchase what they need. "Our women farmers are very busy. Many of them juggle multiple responsibilities, including managing their homes and sometimes working additional jobs. Agrivertise makes it easier for them to sell their produce without having to spend extra time searching for buyers," Sango says. Through the platform, buyers can see what products available and place orders, allowing farmers to focus on their core work—growing and harvesting crops. The convenience Agrivertise offers is particularly beneficial for women, who often bear the burden of unpaid labor alongside their farming duties. One of the biggest challenges in the agricultural sector is the integration of technology. While digital platforms can enhance efficiency, many farmers are unfamiliar with online tools or do not have time to engage with complex systems. Sango recognized this and took a simplified approach. "The key is to make things easy for the farmers, not for us. If they find it easier to take a phone call rather than sign up for an app, then we accommodate that. We meet them where they are," she explains. By adopting a user-friendly approach, Agrivertise ensures that even the busiest farmers can benefit from its services. The company also prioritizes the sale of value-added products like castor oil and coconut oil, which are less perishable than fresh produce, reducing the pressure on farmers to make quick sales. Like many women entrepreneurs, Sango has faced obstacles, particularly in securing financial and human resources. "Agriculture is a broad sector, and connecting with farmers who are often in remote areas is challenging. Without proper funding and a dedicated team, it's tough to scale up," she admits. Despite these challenges, Agrivertise has made a significant impact, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Working with four main farmers’ groups across Dominica, Sango helped farmers use her platform to sell their produce at a time when traditional markets were disrupted. "It was one of my proudest moments—seeing farmers get calls and orders just from posting their products on my Facebook page. My own mother, who is a vendor, used the platform to source produce from women farmers," she shares. Women play a crucial role in food production, yet they often face barriers to land ownership, financing, and market access. "Agriculture is the foundation of everything—our food, clothing, and shelter. We cannot afford to overlook the contributions of women in this sector. They need better access to resources and platforms that simplify their work and boost their earnings," she emphasizes. Sango’s message to women in agriculture is one of perseverance and innovation: "Do not give up on this sector. Modernize your approach and find ways to make agriculture work for today’s economy. Stay focused, and don’t be afraid to explore technology to make your business more efficient." Through Agrivertise, Sango is not just building a business—she is fostering a movement that empowers women, strengthens communities, and ensures that agriculture remains a sustainable and rewarding field fir generations to come.