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In the News

BVIEC SET TO HOST INAUGURAL CAREER EXPO

The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) is set to host its first-ever career exposition on Friday, November 29, aiming to connect residents with exciting opportunities in the energy sector. During a press conference, BVIEC officials shared details of the event, which will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and feature live demonstrations, interactive display booths, … Continued

KICKIN IT UNIVERSITY OPENS VI CULTURE COURSES BEGINNING NOV 23

Kickin It University (KIU) recently announced that it is opening its doors for a highly anticipated first semester, starting on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with an engaging session led by the BVI Heritage Dancers. This dynamic class is just the beginning of the cultural exploration and creative learning the program has in store. Persons interested … Continued

MINISTRY MOVES FORWARD WITH VITAL ROAD WORKS; CAUSES SERIOUS TRAFFIC CONGESTION

Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer has reassured the public that his ministry is moving forward with vital road works to enhance the Virgin Islands road infrastructure.  Honourable Rymer said that there are several forthcoming road works and closures throughout the Territory aimed at ensuring the safety and efficiency of the Territory’s … Continued

CBRTPP HOST ELEVATE YOUR SALES, CONNECT & ENGAGE SUCCESSFUL TRAINING

Tortola Pier Park Ltd. (TPPL) recently announced the success of the “STAND OUT: Elevate Your Sales, Connect & Engage” training session, held in collaboration with Lemoneight, and the BVI Tourist Board on Friday November 15th 2024 at BVI Finance conference room. The workshop, facilitated by Lemoneight, a leader in tourism-based consulting and training empowered participants … Continued

1ST DISTRICT LAUNCHES “WHAT’S GOING ON IN GOVERNMENT”; NEW PLATFORM TO ENGAGE AND EDUCATE RESIDENTS

Residents of the First District will soon have a fresh opportunity to better understand and engage with government processes through a new initiative, “What’s Going On In Government?”. This interactive community meeting series, spearheaded by First District Representative Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson and his District 1 Committee, debuts on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, at Ke … Continued

BVI NETBALL TEAM SWEEPS USVI TO CLAIM TROPICAL NETBALL TOURNAMENT TITLE

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) netball team delivered a dominant performance to secure the championship title at the inaugural Tropical Netball Tournament, held at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola. The team capped off their clean sweep with a commanding 63-28 victory over the St. Croix Flyballers Netball Club on Sunday, November 17. … Continued

SMITH’S FERRY INTRODUCES 149-SEAT ‘I LEGEND’ TO BOOST BVI-USVI CONNECTIVITY

Smith’s Ferry has expanded its fleet with the arrival of ‘I Legend,’ a state-of-the-art ferry with a capacity to seat 149 passengers. Designed to enhance the commuting experience between the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, the new vessel underscores the company’s dedication to providing reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation. The ferry, which boasts advanced … Continued

HON. SMITH TO LAUNCH “ROOTS TO RESILIENCE: TOGETHER WE THRIVE” INITIATIVE

Territorial At-Large Representative, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, has unveiled a new initiative, Roots to Resilience: Together We Thrive, aimed at fostering vibrant, healthy, and united communities across the Virgin Islands. The programme, comprising 17 projects, seeks to empower residents through intergenerational engagement, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation. In a media release, it said the … Continued

BVI FEATURED ON FODOR’S “NO LIST 2025”: A CALL FOR TOURISM REFORM

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) has found itself on Fodor’s Travel “No List 2025,” a compilation of 15 destinations travellers are urged to reconsider due to the strain of over-tourism. While the BVI’s inclusion underscores its allure as a world-class destination, the critique highlights significant challenges facing the territory’s tourism sector and infrastructure. A Surge … Continued

BARRONVILLE AND SMITH CHARGED WITH FIREARMS OFFENCES

32-year-old Richard Barronville of Long Bush, Tortola and Khalid Smith, 24, of the United States Virgin Islands, have been charged with Possession of a Prohibited Weapon and Unlawful Possession of Explosives after law enforcement discovered a firearm and ammunition during a vessel inspection near Frenchman’s Cay. The discovery was made on Thursday, November 14, 2024, … Continued

Local

GOVERNOR PRUCE LEADS REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY AT GOV’T HOUSE

In honour of Remembrance Day, His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce led a ceremony at Government House on Monday, November 11, to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by past and present soldiers. Despite inclement weather necessitating a scaled-down event, the ceremony was attended by Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, Health and Social Development Minister … Continued

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

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

GOVERNOR ASSENTS TO AMENDED IMMIGRATION ACT

Governor Daniel Pruce has officially signed into law the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, which introduces new pathways to Residence Status for children, including those born in the Virgin Islands to non-belonger parents. Signed on November 1, the legislation also addresses the requirements for Residence and Belonger Status, establishes transparent guidelines for awarding status, … Continued

Regional

JULIEN ALFRED NAMED BEST FEMALE ATHLETE OF PARIS 2024 OLYMPICS

Saint Lucia’s sprint sensation and reigning Olympic 100-metre champion Julien Alfred has been awarded the prestigious title of Best Female Athlete of the Paris 2024 Olympics by the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC). Alfred, who clinched gold in the women’s 100-metre and silver in the 200-metre at the Paris Games, received the honour on Wednesday during … Continued

REGIONAL: FOUR UPM GOVERNMENT MEMBERS RESIGN

Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Ebanks-Wilks and Turner, and Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden resigned from the Government effective immediately. Grand Cayman 31 Oct, 2024 – Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Turner and Ebanks[1]Wilks along with Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden announced today they had resigned from the UPM Government effective immediately. Former Deputy Premier and MP … Continued

TRESAN SHARPE OF THE RVIPF CROWNED MISS CFPWA TRUE BLUE BEAUTY

On October 25, 2024, the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations (CFPWA) proudly hosted the True Blue Beauty Pageant, celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of female police officers from across the region. The event took place at the prestigious John E. St. Luce Finance & Conference Center, St. John, Antigua and Barbuda and showcased … Continued

World

“CLIMATE FINANCE IS NOT CHARITY”: SIMON STIELL URGES GLOBAL ACTION AT COP29 IN BAKU

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell delivered an impassioned call for unity and decisive action at the opening of the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, emphasizing the urgency of achieving ambitious outcomes to combat the climate crisis. Stiell began by acknowledging the transition from the Emirati presidency to Azerbaijan’s President Babayev, … Continued

FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS BIDEN’S POLICY ON PATH TO CITIZENSHIP FOR IMMIGRANT SPOUSES

A federal judge in Texas has struck down a key Biden administration policy aimed at helping undocumented immigrants married to United States citizens gain a path to citizenship. The programme, known as “Keeping Families Together,” was one of the most significant recent presidential initiatives for immigrant families, offering undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens … Continued

WHO DECLARES MPOX A GLOBAL HEALTH EMERGENCY

The World Health Organization on Wednesday declared the upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and several other African countries a public health emergency of international concern. WHO Director-General Tedros made the declaration following advice from an emergency committee of independent experts. The decision marks the second time in two years that … Continued

Sports

BVI HOSTS USVI IN TROPICAL NETBALL TOURNAMENT THIS WEEKEND

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) netball team is set to make history as they host their first international tournament, the Tropical Netball Tournament, from Friday, November 15, to Sunday, November 17. The three-day event will see the BVI face off against rivals, the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road … Continued

JERMAINE HENRY EARNS PRO BODYBUILDING CARD – CLAIMS MR. CARIBBEAN GRAND PRIX TITLE

Jermaine Henry of Alpha Fitness VI has made bodybuilding history for the British Virgin Islands, earning his professional bodybuilding card after an impressive performance at the 2024 NPC Worldwide Caribbean Grand Prix Bahamas Pro Qualifier on Sunday. Competing in the Super Heavy Weight category, Henry bested his competition to win the title, then went on … Continued

EPHRAIM PENN ELECTED PRESIDENT OF EASTERN CARIBBEAN OLYMPIC COMMITTEE ASSOCIATION

Ephraim Penn, President of the British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC), has been elected as the new President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (ANOCES). The election, held on October 18, 2024, during the ANOCES General Assembly at Sandals Beaches Resort in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, is … Continued

Politics

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

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

UK OT MINISTER DELAYS DECISION ON LIFTING ORDER IN COUNCIL UNTIL 2025

The British Virgin Islands will remain under the potential threat of direct UK rule, as the Order in Council—an instrument enabling the UK to suspend the BVI’s constitution—remains in place following the recent visit of UK Overseas Territories (OT) Minister Stephen Doughty. During his visit, Doughty announced that while discussions are progressing, a final decision … Continued

WALWYN OPPOSES $500K TOURIST BOARD BEAUTIFICATION BUDGET

Sixth District Representative Hon. Myron Walwyn has raised concerns over the recent decision to allocate $500,000 to the BVI Tourist Board for beautification efforts, describing the decision as misaligned with the board’s primary focus. During the recent debate on the nearly $12 million Schedule of Additional Provisions (SAP), Walwyn argued that such tasks—largely consisting of … Continued

FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS BIDEN’S POLICY ON PATH TO CITIZENSHIP FOR IMMIGRANT SPOUSES

A federal judge in Texas has struck down a key Biden administration policy aimed at helping undocumented immigrants married to United States citizens gain a path to citizenship. The programme, known as “Keeping Families Together,” was one of the most significant recent presidential initiatives for immigrant families, offering undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens … Continued

Community

BVIEC RESTORES ONLINE PAYMENT PORTAL AFTER CYBER-ATTACK

The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has reactivated its online payment portal today, Monday, November 4, 2024. This welcomed development will allow customers to once again pay their electricity bills online, offering more convenience for many. The portal had been offline since mid-August, when the BVIEC experienced a cyber-attack that necessitated shutting down its online services … Continued

BVI CELEBRATING CULTURE AND TOURISM MONTH

Culture and Tourism Month 2024 is expected to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands while promoting tourism as a vital component of the economy. Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Honourable Luce Hodge Smith said the month-long celebration themed, “Telling Your Story Through Tourism: Sharing Virgin Islands Legacies’ will see the intertwining … Continued

PREMIER EYES NOVEMBER 1ST COMPLETION FOR BREWERS BAY RESTROOM FACILITY

Responding to questions from Second District Representative Honourable Melvin Turnbull, Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley addressed the House of Assembly on the status of the Brewers Bay Restrooms and Waste Water Management Facility. Premier Wheatley noted ongoing technical issues with the facility’s electrical connection delaying its opening, a matter he said would be resolved … Continued

Entertainment

TRESAN SHARPE OF THE RVIPF CROWNED MISS CFPWA TRUE BLUE BEAUTY

On October 25, 2024, the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations (CFPWA) proudly hosted the True Blue Beauty Pageant, celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of female police officers from across the region. The event took place at the prestigious John E. St. Luce Finance & Conference Center, St. John, Antigua and Barbuda and showcased … Continued

PREMIER DEFENDS $220K SPONSORSHIP FOR VYBZ KARTEL EVENT – REJECTS POTENTIAL BAILOUT

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has made it clear that no additional funds will be provided to YOLO Promotions if their highly anticipated Vybz Kartel show, scheduled for March 2025, does not meet expectations. Speaking during an interview on JTV’s Big Story on Monday, October 14, the premier addressed growing public concerns … Continued

Business

ATTEMPTED ROBBERY AT LOCAL BUSINESS

Reports have confirmed the attempted robbery of a local business Matcha’s Bar and Grill in Fort Hill, Tortola, Virgin Islands. On the afternoon of November 4th, 2024 a masked indivual armed with a high-powered weapon approached the business establishment. It was revealed that the owner of the business successfully escaped the gunman, who then fled … Continued

BVI FINANCIAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY AND JERSEY FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION SIGN MOU TO ENHANCE COOPERATION IN COMBATTING FINANCIAL CRIMES

The Financial Investigation Agency of the British Virgin Islands has announced the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jersey Financial Services Commission on October 25th. The Authorities entered the agreement to provide a formal basis for consultation, cooperation and exchange of information to achieve effective regulatory and supervisory functions under the relevant … Continued

Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOVERNMENT OFFICES TO OPEN AT 11:00 A.M.

The Office of the Deputy Governor has announced that all public offices across the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are expected to open today at 11:00 a.m. following intense overnight rainfall that has led to flooding and landslides in multiple communities. The office noted that the Public Works Department (PWD) is currently clearing affected areas, working … Continued

Crime

RVIPF EXPANDS CCTV NETWORK ACROSS TORTOLA AND VIRGIN GORDA

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has announced a substantial expansion of its CCTV surveillance network across Tortola and Virgin Gorda, boosting security and creating notable cost benefits. By the end of 2024, over 100 advanced CCTV cameras will be installed in strategic locations throughout Tortola, while Virgin Gorda will see its CCTV sites … Continued

SHOOTING INCIDENT REPORTED NEAR LONG BUSH, TORTOLA

A shooting incident reportedly took place near Long Bush, Tortola, on Friday afternoon shortly before 1:00 p.m. Preliminary information suggested that a male victim was shot in the area commonly referred to as “The Ghetto” before fleeing on a motor scooter. Witnesses say the individual made his way to the vicinity of the UP Cineplex … Continued

Opinion

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

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

MINIMUM QUALITY OF LIFE

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

Weather

BVIHSA ISSUES ALERT ON POSSIBLE CLINIC DELAYS AMID WEATHER

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

FLASH FLOOD WATCH ISSUED FOR BVI AS HEAVY RAIN FORECAST

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

DDM WARNS OF HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING RISKS FOR BVI

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

Travel and Tourism

VG’S TADDY BAY AIRPORT CLOSED FOR RUNWAY REPAIRS

The Taddy Bay Airport on Virgin Gorda has temporarily ceased all fixed-wing operations to allow for essential runway rehabilitation work after recent heavy rainfall affected airport conditions. The BVI Airports Authority announced the closure on Friday, November 1, noting the impact of the rains on runway operations and prioritizing necessary maintenance to ensure safe conditions … Continued

BVI VISA EXEMPTION FOR GUYANESE NATIONALS NOW IN EFFECT

The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially removed the visa requirement for Guyanese nationals entering the territory for business or tourism purposes, effective Friday, November 1. Guyanese travellers are now able to travel to the British Virgin Islands without a visa, a significant move aimed at strengthening regional ties between the Virgin Islands and … Continued

INTERCARIBBEAN SERVICE SEES MAJOR IMPROVEMENT FOLLOWING GOVT INTERVENTION

The Government of the Virgin Islands’ recent intervention with InterCaribbean Airways has led to a significant improvement in the air travel services provided to the territory by the airline. This is according to the Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority, Kurt Menal, who shared the update during a recent interview with 284 Media. He … Continued

BVI VOTED #10 CARIBBEAN & ATLANTIC IN “THE BEST ISLANDS IN THE WORLD: 2024 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS”

The British Virgin Islands has again been recognized among the Caribbean’s most elite destinations, securing 10th place in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Islands in the Caribbean and Atlantic. The list, determined by 575,048 traveller votes cast for this year, reinforces the territory’s status as a destination celebrated by its visitors. … Continued

Health

MOH OBSERVES #MEDSAFETYWEEK, ENCOURAGES SAFE MEDICINE USE AND REPORTING OF SIDE EFFECTS

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, in partnership with the Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), is promoting the safe use of medicines as part of #MedSafetyWeek, which is observed from November 4 to 10. This year’s campaign theme highlights the importance of correct medicine usage to prevent adverse effects … Continued

BVI CANCER SOCIETY DONATES MRI INJECTOR TO BVIHSA IN MEMORY OF KIRIMA FORBES

The BVI Cancer Society has made a significant contribution to the fight against cancer in the Virgin Islands by donating a state-of-the-art MRI Injector machine to the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA). The donation, made in honour of the late Kirima Shameka Forbes, was presented during a heartfelt ceremony on Friday, October 18, at the … Continued

GOVT ENHANCES HEALTHCARE SERVICES AT NURSE IRIS O’NEAL CLINIC

In response to ongoing concerns raised by the Virgin Gorda community regarding healthcare delivery, the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) have implemented significant updates to services at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic. During a recent meeting with residents, several issues were highlighted, prompting the government to prioritize … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

MAYNARD’S SENTENCING DELAYED AGAIN; FAHIE REQUEST ANOTHER DELAY

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

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

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

REPOLLING OF JURORS UNLIKELY BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE – SAYS LEGAL EXPERT

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

Education

HLSCC AND MISSOURI SOUTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY TO STRENGTHEN LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP

The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) and Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), located in Joplin, Missouri, USA are set to deepen their 23-year partnership with HLSCC – one of MSSU’s longest-standing partners in international education as a MSSU delegation arrives in the British Virgin Islands the week of 18th November 2024. The visit will … Continued

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

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

HISTORIAN DAVID OLUSOGA EXPLORES CONDITIONAL CITIZENSHIP AND THE LASTING IMPACT OF THE WINDRUSH

During the recently concluded BVI Lit Fest, acclaimed historian David Olusoga delivered a compelling lecture titled Being & Belonging. The lecture explored themes of citizenship and identity in the United Kingdom and its Overseas Territories, drawing critical insights from the Windrush scandal and broader issues surrounding British nationality laws. Olusoga provided a detailed examination of … Continued

Virgin Islands Schools Closed Due to Adverse Weather Conditions

The Ministry of Education has announced the closure of all public schools across the Virgin Islands today, following a recommendation from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). The decision comes in response to adverse weather conditions, including anticipated cloudy spells, showers, and thunderstorms that are expected to impact the territory throughout the day. In a … Continued

Press Release

CCT CLARIFIES DISCONTINUATION OF SERVICES TO TOLA RADIO

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

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

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

BVIFARS PAYMENT PORTAL TO GO LIVE IN JAN 2024

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

Events

HISTORIAN DAVID OLUSOGA EXPLORES CONDITIONAL CITIZENSHIP AND THE LASTING IMPACT OF THE WINDRUSH

During the recently concluded BVI Lit Fest, acclaimed historian David Olusoga delivered a compelling lecture titled Being & Belonging. The lecture explored themes of citizenship and identity in the United Kingdom and its Overseas Territories, drawing critical insights from the Windrush scandal and broader issues surrounding British nationality laws. Olusoga provided a detailed examination of … Continued

PENN SLAMS LEGALITY OF TOURIST BOARD’S FESTIVAL OVERSIGHT

During a debate on the “Tourist Board (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” Hon. Marlon Penn, Member for the 8th District, raised concerns about the legality of the BVI Tourist Board’s continued assumption of duties which are still legally held by the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee. Penn argued that without proper legislative action, the Tourist Board’s … Continued

TOP MODEL VI 2024 WINNER, ENYA GLASGOW, TO MAKE HER MARK ON INTERNATIONAL RUNWAYS

Enya Glasgow, the newly crowned winner of Top Model VI 2024, is set to captivate the fashion world with a series of prestigious runway appearances. Enya, hailing from Tortola, British Virgin Islands, will showcase her talent at some of the industry’s most celebrated events, beginning in New York and culminating in London. Enya’s journey kicks … Continued

VIRGIN ISLANDS’ CREATIVES CELEBRATED AT INAUGURAL TOAST GALA, ADAM O DELIVERS HEARTFELT SPEECH

On a night filled with celebration, Kickin It held its inaugural gala, ‘Toast’, that brought together Virgin Islands culture, creativity and community. A highlight of the evening was a deeply moving speech from Trailblazer honoree Adam O. Adam O, a beloved figure in the Virgin Islands music scene, has enchanted audiences from around the world … Continued

Environment

“CLIMATE FINANCE IS NOT CHARITY”: SIMON STIELL URGES GLOBAL ACTION AT COP29 IN BAKU

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell delivered an impassioned call for unity and decisive action at the opening of the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, emphasizing the urgency of achieving ambitious outcomes to combat the climate crisis. Stiell began by acknowledging the transition from the Emirati presidency to Azerbaijan’s President Babayev, … Continued

BVI VOTED #10 CARIBBEAN & ATLANTIC IN “THE BEST ISLANDS IN THE WORLD: 2024 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS”

The British Virgin Islands has again been recognized among the Caribbean’s most elite destinations, securing 10th place in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Islands in the Caribbean and Atlantic. The list, determined by 575,048 traveller votes cast for this year, reinforces the territory’s status as a destination celebrated by its visitors. … Continued

‘VIGILATE’ TO GUARD TERRITORIAL WATERS

The British Virgin Islands’ Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change officially launched a new motor vessel, “Vigilate,” on Friday, October 11, 2024, to bolster the monitoring and surveillance of territorial waters. The vessel, whose name means “be watchful,” was acquired through a $933,189 grant from the European Union’s Resilience, Sustainable Energy and Marine … Continued

GOV’T ENGAGES GLOBAL EXPERTS ON HIGH INSURANCE COSTS

The Government of the Virgin Islands is actively seeking solutions to address the territory’s high insurance costs, with recent efforts including discussions with global insurance leaders in the United Kingdom. Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, reported that during the recent official visit to the United … Continued

Youth

2023 CTO JUNIOR TOURISM MINISTER REFLECTS ON YEAR OF SERVICE

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

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

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

Pageantry

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

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

DE’NYA WINTER WELCOMED HOME WITH CEREMONY AT AIRPORT

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

MISS BVI 4TH AT MISS JAYCEES QUEEN SHOW

Miss BVI 2024, Adacia Adonis, secured an impressive fourth-place finish at the recent Miss Jaycees Queen Show. The announcement was made by the official Miss British Virgin Islands page after receiving the official results from the event. Competing against 11 other contestants, Adonis came just short of a royal placement. The Miss British Virgin Islands … Continued

VI QUEENS SHINE AT INTERNATIONAL PAGEANT

Representing the British Virgin Islands (BVI) with grace and poise, Mrs. Amor James Ibechem and Mrs. Surbhi Williams recently showcased their talents at the prestigious Mrs. Globe pageant held in Palm Springs. The two remarkable women, who also serve as ambassadors for the WINBVI foundation, returned home with various awards and accolades, highlighting their achievements … Continued