The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
YES, THERE ARE LOCAL ISSUESlike the petitions aimed at removing two elected members of parliament from their seats; the ongoing debate over whether the removal of the five percent “increase for nurses is immoral; and the “burning” issue of school violence. All of which should occupy social and other media platforms.
And we are certain those issues will be well ventilated.
This is not the first time that this column chooses to go off the “beaten path” and strike up a tune elsewhere.
The recent summit of CARICOM Heads threw up the usual rhetoric broken by a bold “look-in’ on the shortcomings of this regional (integration) body.
And while our heads intellectualizes and took their ‘discussions’ far out of reach of the region’s population as a whole, they continued to disregard the reality that we are not only divided by water, maybe ideology, but that we are deliberately being kept apart by the cost of effecting genuine connectivity in the Caribbean.
Dating back to the short-lived Federation of 1958—1962, imposed on d for us by England as she sought to relinquish responsibility for our development, there was talk of how can there ever be a true integration of Caribbean peoples, when the mass of the population cannot afford to travel within their own geographical space; when they are trapped within their own island spaces because they cannot afford to travel within the (wider) Caribbean. Travel cost (sea or air) is simply beyond them.
Yes, there is all the talk about professionals having “ease of movement and opportunity for work’. But that in itself is not an accomplishment — it is merely a facility that caters to a minority.
And if for some reason anyone thinks that this has changed anything to any degree for the better, here is what Windward Islands Airways International NV (Winair) CEO Hans van de Velde had to say in late January 2026: “It’s impossible in this region to operate for low prices, because running an airline here is expensive, and there are a number of reasons. One is that there are very high TAXES.”
He made no bones that in some cases “literally half of a one way ticket for inter-Caribbean travel is
TAX,” a recurring theme if ever there was one.
The issue was further highlighted during the 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) hosted by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) in Barbados from September 30 to October 3, 2025.
The event brought together over 400 regional and international leaders to discuss sustainability, innovation, and industry (tourism) growth. The degree to which these “leaders” afforded themselves the opportunity to be informed by persons on the ground and by ordinary citizens, is always a case for speculation.
And while the conference focused on visitor arrivals from outside the region, the fact that it recognised the high cost of travel made it relevant to the vexing issue as it relates to inter-island travel by Caribbean people.
Among the key factors contributing to these high cost, the conference noted, was the TAXES imposed by regional governments on airline ticket prices.
The conference noted that intraregional (inte-Caribbean) flights often carry TAXES and fees that exceed the base airfare, significantly increasing the cost of tickets for travel between islands.
This region continues to make it almost impossible for the majority of its population to travel within its own space, contrasting glaringly with what obtains in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Needless to say, these TAXES have several negative impacts on intra-regional travel as they discourage regional movement, with locals being priced out of flying between islands. In turn, this hurts tourism as visitors face unexpectedly high costs, reducing demand.
A 2018 Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) working paper stated that air connectivity growth in the Caribbean has been generally and relatively weak and limited, with one of the primary barriers to connectivity in the Region being high costs such as TAXES, airport fees and other charges in air transportation.
This finding is still very relevant today. Is our new government up to the task of initiating a conversation on the issue of the high cost of intraregional travel as a negative impact on true freedom of movement/regional integration?
THE REAL HEALTH CRISIS IN SVG is far greater than the services we get at the general hospital or our other “Modern Medical Centers”. It’s something that hits you between two slices of bread–a Spam sandwich, made with love by Grandma. Don’t get me wrong; it’s convenient and tastes good, especially if you can splurge and add a fried egg.
I’ve come to understand that highly processed food is a quiet heart attack sitting in the pantry, waiting for that convenient moment when you’re in a hurry or just too lazy to cook real food. As someone diagnosed as prediabetic, I don’t need any extra reminders of the other dangers it brings.
The delicious taste of a carefully made spam sandwich with mustard, mayonnaise, a slice of tomato, and lettuce, which masks the guilt, hits the spot like nothing else can, and brings back fond childhood memories. The sad part today is that this special treat, once enjoyed occasionally because of affordability, is now compounded by the multitude of fast-food outlets. Burgers, fried chicken, greasy sides, sugary drinks–all heavily processed, engineered to taste good, and available on every corner.
It feels like we’ve stopped cooking. Convenience has replaced common sense. I understand why. Parents are tired. Life is busy. Moms and dads both work outside the home, and sometimes, grabbing fast food seems the easiest way to feed the family and keep the peace.
But what we feed our children today sets them up for sickness tomorrow. We love to say, “You are what you eat.” If that’s true, then we shouldn’t be surprised by what we see around us: obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems–a growing list of largely preventable illnesses.
The real danger is this: our healthcare system can’t handle the burden of our eating habits. Our hospital resources are stretched thin, and once you pass 60 with poor dietary choices, the consequences begin, and the bill is yours. No amount of visitors, prayers, or sympathy in a hospital room will change your health decline.
I know eating healthy isn’t always easy. Fresh food can be expensive, and many families are just trying to survive. I get that. But illness is far more costly. In the end, we each have to decide what matters more: protecting our finances today or paying for a
hospital stay tomorrow.
Here’s the part we don’t talk about enough. Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t require expensive gym memberships or buying organic produce. We can go back to basics.
Plant a garden. Grow something–tomatoes, peppers, greens. Food doesn’t always have to come wrapped in plastic with fancy labels. Organize small community gardens. Buy vegetables whole, cook them on the weekend, and refrigerate them for the week. Most importantly, eat them–don’t let them spoil in the fridge.
Get the kids outside. Off the TV. Away from video games. Get them moving. If you can afford a gym, great. Use the neighborhood roads. Walking costs nothing. You don’t need a gym membership to lose weight or stay healthy.
Make it a family routine. Walk together. Cook together. Eat together. And let’s stop pretending obesity is harmless. Let’s be honest: obesity means fat, and too much fat leads to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, liver issues, kidney failure, and a lifetime of medication. That’s not cruelty; that’s biology. My statement isn’t about shaming anyone; it’s about responsibility–parents making choices today that protect their children tomorrow. It’s about adults understanding that every greasy meal, sugary drink, and shortcut comes at a cost.
Our healthcare system isn’t great and won’t improve anytime soon. What we spend today on healthcare is not enough, and we can’t afford to spend any more. The government won’t tell us that; they’re too afraid of not getting reelected. But the harsh truth is, many of these illnesses are self-inflicted habits.
We can’t ban fast food or wish it away, but we can make smarter choices. We can teach our children balance. We can reclaim our kitchens, sidewalks, and health. If we don’t, we’re heading straight to the hospital. And no matter how much people love you, when they visit, none of them will trade places with you. Eat better. Move more. Be aware of what you’re putting into your body. Prevention is still cheaper than the cure.
Horatio.
Sirens of war echo across oceans, leaders shout like thunder without rain, and the earth trembles with the weight of humanity forgetting itself. Yet in the middle of the sea, there is a small island breathing.
Saint Vincent a green heartbeat rising from blue water, where mountains whisper to the clouds and the sea sings ancient lullabies to fishermen before dawn. But even paradise knows chaos. Ash once fell from the sky like gray snow from a wounded giant, The volcano reminded us that the earth itself has a temper.
Still we stood.
Because Vincentians are carved from the same stone as our mountains, tempered by hurricanes, and baptized by salt wind and sun. The world may argue over borders, over oil, over power that fades like smoke–but here
children still run barefoot through villages, old men still argue politics under almond trees, and the sea still writes poetry against the sand every morning.
We are small, yes.
A dot on a map in a world obsessed with size. But even the smallest island can carry the largest courage. Because when the world shakes with confusion and anger
Saint Vincent stands like a quiet lighthouse
not the loudest voice in the storm, but a reminder that resilience is the truest form of strength. And maybe, just maybe, while the world learns again how to be human, this little island will keep its flame burning, A green jewel in a restless sea, whispering to the chaos:
“We are still here.”
© Yanic Sayers, Kingstown St. Vincent and the Grenadines Mar. 2026.
THE RECENT KILLING of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the military removal of Venezuelan President, Maduro, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine all demonstrate the conquering powers of the mighty. No one should justifiably mourn the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei. Khamenei was a brutal and repressive dictator, and a chief financier of the terrorist organizations Hamas, Hezbollah and the Taliban. These organizations sought to reek havoc and destruction on Israel, Western countries and the United States of America (US).
For decades, through these organizations, Iran and its leadership targeted the killing of innocent people
throughout the world. Hamas and Hezbollah advocated for the total destruction of Israel, and even questioned the very right of Israel to exist. Israel is not free from criticism either. Its inhumane and distasteful treatment of the Palestinian people is a far cry from what is required of moral and respectable governance. This, however, still does not warrant the advocacy for the total destruction of Israel.
Just recently, during the month of January 2026, Iran reportedly executed thousands of its own peaceful protesters. The protesters were demanding changes to Iran’s political system and an end to decades of repression. Instead, they were met with mass killings by Iran’s security
I KNOW THAT I GOING TO GET LICKS for what I have to say, but I say it since it is always good to get things off your chest.
forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IGRC). No doubt, a ruthless and oppressive leader, Khamenei was a bad actor that deserved to be removed from office.
Similarly, another bad actor, President Maduro of Venezuela, was removed from power by a US military operation. The US claimed that Maduro jailed his political opponents and supported Narcoterrorism activities in the Caribbean. The US government also accused Maduro of participating in the trafficking of drugs entering the US.
While we may agree that both the Ayatollah and Maduro were despotic leaders, can we justify their killing and removal from power by a foreign military force? Shouldn’t the people of a sovereign country be responsible for determining the fate of their nation’s leadership and its destiny? Who gives the right to a foreign nation to kill or overthrow any leader of a sovereign country, or to
seize their lands? Witness Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This authority to disregard the sovereignty of others is assumed by the superior military powers of the mighty nations. They believe they can dictate and conquer the less powerful. Beware! This is the advent of a new world order.
B-Das.
I have observed that while our leaders (Caribbean) are quick to refer to all kind of international law and economic hardship that Cuba faces, all of them (perhaps now with the except of T7T’s Kamla Persad-Bissessar, have been quiet on the internal state of the Cuban people.
Don’t get me wrong, I admire the progress Cuba has made even in the face of that trade embargo by the USA. And I recognize how much Cuba has given to the world (including SVG) as far as their medical knowledge is concerned. Though I read recently that these medical professionals are often used as tools for “medical diplomacy” by Cuba.
We must be careful that we are not drawn into some kind of ideological war in which we end up praising some revolution about brotherhood and what have you, while we ignore the fundamental human rights of the Cuban people.
Yew we want true freedom for the Caribbean and that includes freedom for the Cuban people.
If our Caricom leaders want to be taken seriously, they must stop being apologists for a system of government that denies people the fundamental freedoms that we cherish.
Charles, Edinboro
* GONSALVES GOT IN GOVERNMENTin 2001 after he staged road blocks. Is he trying to get into government again by staging court cases? Does he want to get back into “power” by any means?
* Do the Traffic Patrol Police have an 8am to 4pm scheduled? Is the Traffic Department aware that traffic violations, like exceeding the speed limit by five times, are also committed in the night hours?
* Are there still big grown men who take advantage of young girls who come from poor homes?
* How come Ezra Hendrickson just ‘ups’ and resign as head coach of our national football team? Is there more in the mortar than the pestle?
* Has the semi-professional football league now just talk?
* Does Dr. Gonslaves accept that he lost two battles: the general elections in which he was given a good licking, and his effort to have Dr. Shallow removed as president of CWI?
* Is the NDP going to look at renaming the athletics track at Diamond?
* What is the latest on Balliceaux? How far has the acquisition gone? Will the NDP give an update on National Heroes Day?
“The first step in the progress of any society is to make the government accountable to the people, and to make sure that the workings of government are transparent.” – Ban Ki-moon (Born 1944),
Former UN Secretary-General
THE ABILITY OF THE MASS MEDIA to highlight the accomplishments and foibles of citizens has been largely responsible for the increased focus on the need for greater accountability and transparency in government. Some parliamentarians, senior civil servants, and members of boards of directors are likely to be tempted to sacrifice the national good for personal gain. However, it is not beyond these individuals to walk the moral high road and resist such enticements. Doing so requires a strong sense of integrity and a deep moral commitment to resist the urge to compromise principles for personal benefit. Through newspapers, radio, television, and digital platforms, information about public policies, government activities, and social issues are shared with the public in a very speedy manner. And while the public is cautious about the proliferation of fake news it is important to develop a sense of discernment (to detect the erroneous details) and to focus intently on holding individuals accountable. By alerting citizens and exposing wrongdoing, mass media plays a critical role in deterring leaders, institutions, and organizations from acting dishonestly. Such persons in authority are reminded that they remain answerable to the people. There is a civic responsibility to do so.
We are forever grateful to regional organisations like the Caribbean Institute of Governance for highlighting best practices and periodically engaging international, regional, and local presenters to facilitate workshops aimed at creating greater awareness of the need for good governance. These experienced practitioners often highlight enhanced skills in detecting fraudulent activities via procurement practices, land acquisition, and various forms of nepotism. They stress that accountability and transparency are fundamental principles to ensure fair, just, and effective government. These are interwoven concepts that safeguard public trust and ensure that government officials and institutions act in the best interests of the people.
The absence of proper systems, structures, procedures, and policies invite individuals to seek to “trick the system”. That lure for personal gain at the expense of others can be considered to be very strong if/when an individual convinces himself that he is underpaid or overworked and therefore needs to “make up the difference” by taking what is lawfully not his own. Such enticing thoughts do not only emerge within the government circles. Individuals in the private sector and non-government organisations can also be contaminated should they entertain thoughts that seek to justify such wrongs.
At its foundation, accountability in government refers to the obligation of elected officials, civil servants, and government agencies to answer for their actions, decisions, and policies. That responsibility does not evaporate after they leave office. Civil society must insist that wrongdoing is pursued with vigour even after an individual has demitted office. There should be no exception to the rule; everyone must be held accountable for their decisions. Failure to pursue infractions can create a sense of anarchy, leading society to conclude–incorrectly–
that some individuals are exempt from the rules. Such compromised situations can quickly unravel the moral fabric of society and usher in a tsunami of corruption that may persist for decades. It is therefore imperative to create and sustain systems, structures, procedures, and policies that enable citizens to question government decisions, demand explanations, and, when necessary, seek redress for wrongdoings, failures, and foibles. The legal, political, and administrative mechanisms must discourage and eradicate corruption, fraud, nepotism, and the abuse of power.
Transparency is the standard that the government must operate in an open and visible manner, providing the general public with access to information about government’s financial transactions, actions, and decisions. This is specially so when governments embark on large capital projects such as highway construction, airport development, and port expansion. While there are aspects of confidentiality that must be maintained, a transparent government allows the public to see how policies are made, how resources are allocated, and how taxpayers money is spent. Such transparency helps to retard corruption, inefficiency, and waste. Visibility helps to fortify the decision makers in avoiding the temptations to engage in corrupt practices.
Some in government may incorrectly conclude that withholding information provides an extra sense of power and magnifies their perceived “privileged position”. However, regular public reporting and the publication of government spending provide citizens with a sense of security that governance practices are healthy and above board. This, in turn, enables citizens to track the flow of public funds and assess the effectiveness of government programmes.
While accountability and transparency are distinct concepts, they are intimately linked. Accountability mechanisms help ensure that transparency creates and maintains positive changes that benefit all citizens. Together, these principles promote the responsible use of power while simultaneously empowering government leaders and civil servants to act with integrity, fairness, and respect for the public good.
Over the years, organisations like the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and various governance bodies have sought to encourage best governance practices — especially in the procurement of goods and services. However, achieving full accountability and transparency remains a challenge for many governments around the world. Many of our governments throughout the Caribbean recognize that accountability and transparency are essential pillars of good governance and recognize that they foster a sense of trust and fairness, ensuring that government actions align with the needs and rights of the people. We commend their efforts to ensure that these principles are upheld and recognize their resolve to pursue and punish those who have breached such best practices and engaged in corruption, mismanagement, or the erosion of public trust.
A guest column by Arturo Dominguez
starve them for decades.
THERE’S A REASON the loudest Cuban American voices are white while the majority of the island is nonwhite; the history behind it is ugly.
Every photo and video of modernday Cuba features Black or Brown people. Afro-Cubans and mixed-race Cubans are everywhere. What’s harder to find in those images are white Cubans, most of whom live in the U.S. Many are separated from the island by generations of white Cubans who severed ties with their Afro-Cuban and Mulatto sides of their families. Had they maintained them, a massive pocket of Cuban Americans would have had a better understanding of the realities in Cuba, not some propagandised stories.
My grandfather was one of the white Cubans who was openly racist. He isolated himself from our AfroCuban family, shunning them, and fled Cuba precisely because of desegregation. When my grandmother, who lived most of her life in Cuba, came to the U.S. to spend her final days with her grandkids and great-grandkids decades later, she opened my eyes. She was still connected to that side of our family and not only introduced me to them, but led me on a path of discovery. Learning about my ancestry and heritage. About our Afro-Cuban roots.
We have more Afro-Cuban family members than white family members in our family. How can anyone not want to acknowledge that part of our heritage and culture?
While you can make plenty of arguments about why the Cuban government is bad or highlight its failures, the truth is, most of that is racially driven propaganda. Additionally, every negative thing you claim about the Cuban government is happening in front of your face right here in the U.S. One thing is certain: Cuba isn’t executing people on its streets. Does it track people? Yes, but so do we. Does Cuba arrest protesters? Sometimes, but so do we. Does Cuba suppress free speech? Yeah, when it becomes antigovernment, but so does every country, including the U.S. Even without the comparisons, it still doesn’t justify starving 10 million people.
Rationalising such a depraved idea can only come from a place of hate. A hatred for the population that has refused to bend a knee to the U.S. Hatred for a population that has chosen to govern itself differently. Yes, chosen. For 65 years, Cubans have had every opportunity to overthrow their government with the backing of the U.S. military. For 65 years, they have refused to. The anti-Cuban propaganda suggesting all Cubans want to overthrow the Cuban government comes from people detached from the island.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has never been to the island. Yet he disguises himselves as a beacon of democracy and freedom for a population that isn’t interested in overthrowing their government, civil war, or further destabilisation of the island, or willing to cede control to a foreign power that has been trying to
The truth is, these motivations are much more sinister. It’s an issue we Cubans tend to overlook because most of our grandparents have been hiding the truth. It’s an ugly truth attached to some of the worst historical events in Cuban history. One that seeks dominion over a people to exploit them and exact revenge for supporting the current government. It’s an issue steeped in outright racism and is using propaganda and the power of the U.S. government to weaponise colonialist intent at the behest of an imperialist nation.
During the Mariel Boatlift, 40% of the 125,000 Cubans detained were disproportionately Black or mixedrace and held for longer periods in military detention camps. While the vast majority of Afro-Cubans inevitably ended up staying in the U.S., they were few in comparison and were rejected by the white Cuban elites in Miami. When mixedrace and Afro-Cubans were more commonly being seen migrating, President Clinton’s policy was to detain them at Guantanamo rather than releasing them back to Cuba. Haitians were also being treated poorly, which brought the preferential treatment of white Cubans into the fight for racial justice in the U.S. at the time. As Black people in the U.S. rallied to the defence of Haitians and AfroCubans, white Cubans remained silent. Instead, they helped feed the false narrative that they were migrants released from Cuban insane asylums and prisons.
It’s not about “one-party rule,” as the country before Castro’s Revolution was under the one-party fascist U.S.-backed dictator Fulgencio Batista, and every president before him. All of whom were installed by the U.S. government. It’s not about “communism,” as evidenced by the U.S. working with various communist countries around the world. And it sure as hell isn’t about dictators when the U.S. partners with them all over the world. So, what else is left?
For white Cuban hardliners, it’s quite simple: racism that has been festering for more than six decades. Many refuse to acknowledge that the initial waves of Cubans leaving the island after the Revolution did so before the country shifted to communism and was negotiating deals with the U.S. It wasn’t until the U.S. shunned Cuba that it was forced to rely on partners like Russia.
For the U.S.’s part, the only threat Cuba poses is to its industries. For example, Cuba has created countless vaccines, including one for lung cancer, and they give them away. No patents. No barriers. Just free. When underdeveloped countries need help with manufacturing the drugs, Cuba obliges and helps get them started. Allowing Cuba’s biotech sector to operate in a free market would singlehandedly cripple and reshape the pharmaceutical industry in the U.S.
Minister Shevern John has the responsibility of leading the navigation through a highly charged political challenge. i.e. public assistance.
MONTHLY PUBLIC ASSISTANCE to the needy here has been increased from $360.00 to $500.00 per eligible person.
This increase was in keeping with an election campaign promise made by the then opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) in the lead-up to the November 27, 2025 general election.
The NDP won that election by a margin of 14 -1.
The increase,
notwithstanding, the Minister with responsibility for Social Welfare, National Heritage and Ecclesiastical Affairs, Shevern John, has confirmed that sanitizing of the list of recipients of public assistance and government support has begun.
The process is not an overnight one and Minister John appealed to the public to be patient as the cleaning up process continues.
Minister John assured that her Ministry was determined to ensure “that vulnerable citizens receive the support they need,” and that would mean identifying persons who may have qualified but were not included in the government support programme. And as far as vulnerable households were concerned, the funeral/burial grant under her Ministry was available to those “who need help to bury their loved ones,” the Minister affirmed.
Continued from Page 2.
Hadaway recognised the installation of a new Board as “the beginning of a new chapter,” during which good governance, accountability, and professionalism must guide every decision we make.”
And in speaking directly to her Board, the Chairperson posited, “Our success will be measured not only by revenue generated, but by how responsibly those revenues are managed and how meaningfully they benefit national development, particularly in areas such as (sports & Culture - 80 %) (education, health, and community upliftment20 %)
She emphasised, “Our role is not to manage dayto-day operations, but to set clear direction, provide sound oversight, and ensure that management operates within a strong framework of controls and ethical standards.”
In 2025, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Lotteries Authority (NLA) achieved record-breaking performance, with revenue surpassing EC$98 million for the financial year. (Source: NLA)
The “spikes” were welcomed by a strong student showing, staff members and a number of IHA alumni.
THE INTERMEDIATE HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
INC. (IHSAA) continues to fulfill, in tangible ways, its commitment to assuaging in whatever way(s) possible with sustaining and advancing the programme of its alma mater.
On Monday of this week, March 09, the Association presented to the school a brand new refrigerator and a quantity of “spikes” — shoes used by track and field athletes.
The refrigerator is expected to support and facilitate smoother operations of the school’s feeding programme, and was made possible through the kind and generous support of alumni Tyrone Creese and Brian Hadaway, and friend of the Association — Aaron Crichton.
And while the “spikes” were provided at this time with the school’s participation in the imminent Inter-Secondary Schools Athletics Championship, they are set for use by the athletes in their training and general athletic development.
The donation of the “spikes” was made possible through the generous support of alumni Michael Hadaway, Donna Findlay,
3rd, was gifted recently with a quantity of personal wear items.
Sam, aka “NO NAME”, who has difficulty standing and walking and gets around in a wheelchair, is one of a fast depleting group of specially skilled people. He makes and repairs fishing nets for a living. It was while he was on way to the location where he plies his trade, that he caught the attention of this VINCENTIAN part time contributor.
the wheelchair was without one tyre.
That said, before I could get my weight belt and move to assist him, he had forced himself unto his feet, not very steadily.
It was then that I noticed he wore two different sneakers that were falling apart in a way worse than his wheelchair. I inquired of him what size footwear he wore.
Later, I contacted Mr. Marcus Martin, a Layou resident, who agreed to offer some assistance, which turned out to be a pair of sandals and two pairs of sneakers.
SEVENTY-SIX-YEAR-
OLD Patrick Sam of Layou, who celebrated his birthday on March
Sam, while at the corner leading to Maggie’s Hideaway and the road to Bambereaux, found himself having to avoid a TEN-TON truck. In doing so, he almost fell out of his wheelchair and into a gutter. I noticed that
Imagine Sam’s joy on receiving the gift. He thanked Martin and jokingly promised to live to be one hundred and forty.
Now attention turns to getting a tyre for his wheelchair. An appeal goes out to the public for assistance.
Martin’s generosity was quick in coming. He recognised a citizen in need and moved without question to assist.
We are our brother’s keeper is not just something we should say. It is something we should live.
Carlyle Douglas
Mitchell, Ansley
and Rohan Providence, and James Cordice, renowned for his ongoing facilitation of opportunities for young Vincentian athletes in the USA, and a friend of the Association.
The Association, meanwhile, is looking forward to making, in the not too distant future, another contribution to the music programme of the school. A contribution of equipment to the programme was made earlier this year, by alumnus Harold “Ploomie” Lewis, renowned musician/bassist.
Lewis has indicated his willingness to help with further equipping the “music room” (programme) plan for which will be made known in an exclusive interview with THE VINCENTIAN.
SIXTY TEENAGE GIRLS from secondary schools here were recently involved in an afternoon of mentorship, learning, and inspiration.
This as the Rotary Club of St. Vincent hosted its inaugural Teen Empowerment Tea Party on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Beachcombers Hotel, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Led by Past President Shafia London, the youth-focused project provided an opportunity for the teens to engage in meaningful discussions on healthy self-esteem, overcoming personal limitations, and nurturing strong mental and emotional wellbeing as young women.
Leading the girls into meaningful and interactive participation was a panel comprising Mrs. C. LaToya DeRoche-John, Headmistress of the St. Vincent Girls’ High School; Entrepreneur and fashion designer
Ms. Lisa Cordice; and Psychologist and mental wellness advocate Dr. Alisa Alvis.
Each of panelists shared personal experiences and offered words of encouragement and upliftment.
Aviar Charles, a former Miss SVG and Manager/ Public Relations at Sandals (SVG) Resort, also availed herself and led a session on etiquette.
Health professionals from the Health Promotion Unit were also present to lead an interactive session on breast health, demonstrating breast self-examination techniques and raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The activity formed part of the Club’s Global Grant-funded Breast Cancer Awareness Project, now in its fifth year. And to crown off the afternoon, the teenage girls were treated to an inspiring address by President-Elect LaTeisha Sandy-Marks of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, who encouraged the girls to embrace the beauty of their unique selves.
THE GARIFUNA HERITAGE FOUNDATION -TGHF, in collaboration with the Ministries of Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries on Friday, March 06, staged the 11th National Garifuna Folk Festival at Independence Park (formerly Victoria Park), with a total of 26 primary and secondary schools participating.
The Garifuna Folk Festival is a combination of dance, drumming, singing and choral speeches all centred around the struggles of the indigenous people, especially the Garinagu, i.e. Garifuna people, many of whom, after the murder of their Chief, Chatoyer, were captured then exiled to an uninhabited island Balliceaux, without water .. where many died. Those who survived Balliceaux were transported to Roatan Island off Honduras. Many died during that arduous voyage.
The survivors set up small communities in Central America — Belize, , Honduras, Guatemala and Nicaragua — and were able to retain their language and culture up to today. In all of that, the Garifuna people hold St. Vincent, known to them as Yurumein, scared and behold it as
their ancestral homeland.
The activity began with a march around Kingstown to Independence Park, accompanied by the Police Band.
At the Park, the activities began with a prayer by Ameia Lowman from the Kingstown RC School, followed by the national anthem sung in the Garifuna language by the Fancy Government School.
The gathering was then addressed by David “Darkie” Williams, President of The Garifuna Heritage Foundation (TGHF), and
Claydonna Peters and Nashakie Samuel representing the Ministries of Culture and Education respectively. They were followed by Carlos Gamboa, a fifth generation Garifuna representing the Guatemalan Diaspora delegation. He encouraged the students to give of their best in the quest for a better standard of living through education, and also to give back to the communities that nurtured their development.
Also addressing the opening ceremony of the Festival was Technical Director of TGHF, Mrs. Zoila Ellis/Browne. She welcomed the visitors and participants, and
outlined the activities to be staged for National Heroes Month.
The schools taking part in the 11th Folk Festival included: Stephanie Browne School - Union Island, Owia Government, Gomea Methodist, Tourama Government, Georgetown, Fancy, Barrouallie Anglican and Barrouallie Government, Sandy Bay Secondary, Kingstown Prep, Belair Government, Sion Hill, Central Leeward Secondary, C.W.Prescod, Dorsetshire Hill, Bethel High, Evesham Methodist, West St. George, St. Clair Dacon, St. Mary’s RC, J.P. Eustace Memorial Secondary, Lodge Village, Calliaqua Anglican, Adelphi Secondary, Kingstown Anglican and St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown.
The 25 schools thrilled the audience at Independence Park with creative and folk dances, depicting the struggles of our Garifuna ancestors. The agility and energy displayed by the young ‘Garifuna dancers’ aroused spontaneous applause from those gathered. The poetry and chorale speeches
were equally impressive. Garinagu culture is not complete without drumming … the drummers provided the rhythm that had the audience tapping their feet and shaking in time with the beats.
The crowning moment was a fashion show displaying the Garinagu colours of Black, Yellow and White, through creative designs.
All in all, it was a first class display of talent that must be applauded and encouraged.
What was most encouraging was the use of the Garinagu language during the festival, as well as the punta beat/music and style of dancing.
Master of ceremonies for this event was Ms. Gloria Williams, renowned performing artiste (comedy, storytelling, poetry). Several activities have been planned for National Heroes Month and will be reported on as they unfold.
Report submitted by: DONALD
Grounds, Strategic Goals: Inclusion Reparations, Balliceaux and the 2030 Pathway to Garifuna Empowerment.”
The three-day event began last Wednesday, March 11, with greetings, cultural presentation and a new feature entitled “Remembering Balliceaux and the 1797 Expulsion”, a touching reenactment of the exile of the Garifuna to Balliceaux.
The reenactment brought to life the events of the expulsion, giving those present a visual event of what transpired over two centuries ago.
With an appropriate supporting narration, the presentation wowed those who were able to mentally relive the atrocities.
The formal Opening Ceremony took place on Wednesday afternoon with a welcome address from David “Darkie” Williams, President of TGHF, and remarks from Resa Noel-McBarnett, Head of Site UWI Global Campus.
Delivering a stirring address was Minister of Social Welfare, Community Empowerment, Disaster Management National Heritage- Shevern John.
remembrance demands responsibility and where memory must inspire action.”
She noted that there are valuable lessons to be learnt and applied.
THE 13TH GARIFUNA CONFERENCEconcludes today, Friday, March 13, 2026, after three days of in-depth consultations, discussions, presentations, film screening, and addresses.
Hosted by The Garifuna Heritage Foundation (TGHF) in collaboration with the University of the West Indies Global Campus SVG, this year’s theme was “Sacred
She highlighted the fact that for years the conference served an “important gathering of minds and voices committed to preserving, examining and advancing the legacy of the Garifuna People.”
Speaking on Balliceaux, John, who is of Garifuna descent, said,” It is a place where the earth itself carries memory; not only the facts of the past, but the value that emerges from it: resilience, dignity, courage, and solidarity. Balliceaux is not simply land. It is sacred ground. It is a place where
“The Garifuna experience teaches us that resilience is not simply survival. It is the ability to carry forward identity across generations. It is a language spoken with pride, music played with spirit, tradition, practice with purpose, and communities bond together by share heritage and ancestral wisdom,” John stressed.
John in extending greetings to the visiting delegations, commended the Garifuna Heritage Foundation and the University of the West Indies Global Campus for their unwavering commitment and partnership in sustaining the meaningful platform, and highlighted the fact that through dialogue and advocacy, the story, the struggles and the triumphs of the Garifuna people remain firmly placed within regional and global conversation.
Also delivering addresses were Prime Minister Dr Godwin Friday and Kaschaka Cupid, Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture, and the Creative Industries.
The opening also saw cultural performances from the Evesham Methodist School, the CW Prescod Primary as well as the Garifuna Warriors, offsprings of Garifuna living in the USA.
The conference was complemented by a Film Festival and a Bush Tea Exhibition.
Tomorrow, March 14, visiting delegates will attend the Wreath Laying Ceremony at Dorsetshire Hill, along with festivals in Greiggs and Fancy, and will go on a pilgrimage to Balliceaux on Sunday, March 15.
EARLY IN MARCH, in a radio broadcast on Star FM, former Finance Minister Camilo Gonsalves said he had heard from a nurse and two other sources that the 5% supplementary non-taxable income previously provided to nurses, nursing assistants, and nursing aids by the ULP government, had been discontinued by the new NDP administration.
He said then, that the information he had at hand was that the supplement was not paid in January or February of the current year.
Gonsalves said in his radio broadcast that the supplement was first announced in October 2023 by then-Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves.
In fact, the announcement was included in the Independence Anniversary package of 2023 and was described as a measure to
address specific challenges in the nursing profession.
According to the former Finance Minister, the supplement was paid throughout 2024 and 2025, and the administration in which he served as Finance Minister had promised to make this 5% increase permanent and tax-free starting in 2026.
He acknowledged that the current government provided a $2,000 one-off bonus to the nurses but computed that with the withdrawal of the supplement, nurses were in a net loss position because they lost the $2,082 annual supplement, and missed out on projected salary increases of 4% to 5% that were anticipated for 2026.
But, in a statement made public on Thursday, the Nurses Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
made known that the 5% salary supplement was always intended to be a temporary fiscal measure and disclosed that for several years, the Nurses Association and the SVG Public Service Union had made repeated attempts “to engage the ULP administration in discussions related to the need for a review of allowances for nurses, as well as to initiate discussions on the reclassification and upgrading of salaries within the nursing profession.”
In support of the temporary nature of the supplement, the statement referenced that when it was first announced in 2023, the Prime Minister said it was last for six months.
The association noted further that during the October 2024 Independence Anniversary Address, the Prime Minister announced
Camillo Gonsalves, former Minister of Finance, might just have misrepresented the nature of the 5% monthly supplement that nurses, etc., had received under the ULP administration.
that the government would extend the 5% monthly supplementary non-taxable payment as a time-bound fiscal relief measure for an additional year, ending December 31, 2025.
In the 2025 Independence Anniversary Address, the only incentive announced for nurses was a one-off, tax-free Christmas Cost of Living Allowance (COLA)
Noting that the former Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves had suggested the current government had “axed” the supplement, the association explained that “the allowance had a predefined expiration date linked to longterm salary reclassification talks,” and that the previous (ULP) administration “was aware of the time-bound nature of these payments and had previously ignored pleas to address systemic pay
inequities for midwives.”
The statement said that the nurses’ association was now shifting “the focus from political rhetoric to the need for permanent improvements in working conditions,” giving the new administration a ‘thumbs up’ on the expectations of nurses.
In that light, the association recommitted “to securing fair compensation and professional stability for healthcare workers rather than relying on short-term relief,” the statement said.
REPUBLIC BANK (EC) LIMITED (RBEC) has officially launched its 2026 Heroes Month campaign, “Be Your Own Hero – Create Your Legacy.” This inspiring initiative empowers Vincentians to take bold steps toward land and home ownership, redefining what it means to be a hero in today’s world.
Running from March 2nd to April 30th, 2026, the campaign aligns with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ National Heroes Day celebrations. Republic Bank is encouraging customers to view purchasing land, owning a home, or renovating as modernday acts of heroismpowerful financial decisions that create stability, pride, and generational wealth.
Dawnette Constance, Manager Personal Banking at RBEC, noted; “For many Vincentians, owning land or a home can feel like a distant goal, but through our Heroes Month offers, we’re making it more accessible than ever. We want our customers to feel confident knowing that Republic Bank is walking alongside them–providing the tools, financing, and support they need to turn today’s decisions into tomorrow’s legacy.”
A major highlight of the campaign is the suite of exclusive, limited-time offers designed to make home and land ownership more accessible. During the promotional period, customers can benefit from up to 100% financing on mortgage solutions, reducing the immediate financial burden often associated with purchasing property. Special interest rates and attractive financing packages are available for a range of mortgage options, including land purchases, home purchases, mortgage switches, equity takeouts, and home renovations. These solutions are carefully structured to provide
flexibility and affordability, empowering customers to select the option that best aligns with their financial goals and stage of life.
In addition to mortgages, the campaign features Republic Bank’s Make It Happen Loans, available in both secured and unsecured options. These loans are designed to support customers taking their first step toward property ownership, undertaking home improvements, or managing related expenses. With competitive terms and streamlined access to financing, the Bank ensures that customers can move forward confidently with their plans, free from unnecessary delays.
To provide even greater value, the campaign also encourages customers to take advantage of additional financial solutions that complement their property goals. Customers can access insurance products to help safeguard their property investments, along with Republic Bank credit cards that delivers added convenience and purchasing power. This integrated approach ensures that customers not only secure financing for their property goals but also
Republic Bank, Halifax Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
benefit from the financial tools needed to manage and safeguard their investment over the long term.
Through its exclusive Heroes Month offers, Republic Bank reinforces its commitment to serving as a trusted financial partnerhelping Vincentians turn
aspirations into achievements and create a legacy that will endure for generations.
For more information, customers are
encouraged to visit their nearest Republic Bank branch, speak with a Personal Banking Officer or Relationship Officer, follow RBEC on social
media, or complete the online inquiry form to begin their journey today. (Submitted by Republic Bank)
Dear George,
I AM ENGAGEDto be married to this young lady and I’m very excited about marrying her. The problem is in the three years we have been together, I have not told her I am the father of a seven-year-old boy. I didn’t think it was a big deal seeing he does not live with me. He lives with his mother in Tortola.
I am wondering: Would it be a problem not telling her? Is it best that I wait until after the marriage to tell her?
I do not honestly think it will be a problem with her because she’s pretty cool. I just want to be on the safe side.
V. Kool.
Dear V. Kool,
It is always a good thing to place all of your cards face up on the table when entering into a relationship, especially marriage. Surprises do not work well with relationships. It does not matter whether your son is with you or not, your fiancee deserves to know about him.
Some women/men do not embrace the idea of step-parenting and this is something that must be brought to the fore. The time to have that talk is now. Let the chips fall where they may after that.
George.
Dear George,
MY GIRLFRIENDwants to get into the business of selling sex toys but I am against it. It conflicts with my religious beliefs.
I am in the church and she is not but we have always agreed on everything most times.
I am not even sure how legal it is to be selling these items, and I am not comfortable with the idea of men having discussions with her about sex toys, etc.
I am just not with the idea but she is insisting on doing it. How much should I push?
There are times in every relationship when things must be considered. Of course, there may be some situations where one individual might draw the line and refuse to compromise. You are going to be hard-pressed to compromise your religious convictions. Your Bible will tell you that two cannot walk together except they agree, so this being the case in question, you should have a conversation about religious beliefs, values, standards, et. See if she would be persuaded to forget about her idea.
Today the conflict is about sex toys but you have no idea what it is going to be tomorrow. George.
Dear George,
I JUST FOUND OUT that I am HIV positive. My husband is a prominent businessman and he and his entire family look up to me.
The thing is I am not sure who gave who what and when. I cheated on my husband once with one of his business partners, in order to cash in on a big business deal. But I have also been hearing about my husband going out with his secretary. I have no proof of it, but it is possible he could have caught something from her or from me.
Telling him about my status will mean telling him about my affair with his business colleague. In the sticky situation, I do not know what to do. The thought of just ending my life continues to cross my mind. I never thought I would be in such a situation.
Too Scared to Live
Dear Too Scared to Live,
The fact of the matter is, your husband has to know about your status and he also will have to come clean.
That said, all sexual partners have to be identified and asked to get tested.
I suggest you contact the AIDS Secretariat and/or Marion House to get the support that is available. It is not the end of your world. It is quite understandable too that you are overwhelmed but with proper support, the right information, in time the future will look more promising. George.
THE UNITED STATES AND ISRAELI STRIKES on Iran continue, as Tehran has stepped up attacks to disrupt energy markets, triggering a spike in oil prices.
According to Iran’s representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, at least 1,348 civilians have been killed as the war entered its 13th day on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined three conditions to end the war: recognition of Tehran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm international guarantees against future aggression.
This comes as Tehran has continued retaliatory attacks and signalled potential conditions for ending the conflict.
At the same time, cyberattacks, maritime incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and rising oil prices are adding to the global fallout of the war.
Here are the latest developments:
* Growing death toll: At least 1,348 civilians have been killed and over 17,000 injured in Iran since the US and Israel launched their attacks on February 28.
* Iran ‘only targeting US bases’: Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said the Strait of Hormuz oil shipping lane will remain closed, and issued a warning that bases used by US forces will be subjected to further attacks unless they are shut down.
* Conditions for peace: President Pezeshkian said Tehran would consider ending the war if its “legitimate rights” are recognised, reparations are paid, and firm international guarantees prevent future attacks.
* Three million displaced in Iran: Up to 3.2 million people have been displaced in Iran since the war erupted nearly two weeks ago, the United Nations refugee agency said.
* Top adviser calls Trump ‘Satan’: Yahya Rahim Safavi, a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, lashed out at US President Donald Trump on state television, calling him “the most corrupt and stupid American president” and “Satan himself”.
* No evidence of mines: French President Emmanuel Macron said he had “no confirmation” Iran was laying sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz after reports the key waterway had been mined.
* Joint strike with Hezbollah: Iran’s
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it carried out a joint missile operation with Lebanese ally Hezbollah against targets in Israel.
* Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz: The IRGC said it fired at two vessels that allegedly ignored warnings. Additionally, Oman’s navy rescued 20 sailors from a Thai-flagged vessel attacked in the strait.
* Saudi Arabia: The Ministry of Defence on Thursday said two drones heading towards the Shaybah oilfield were intercepted and destroyed over the kingdom’s Empty Quarter desert. Another drone heading towards the oilfield had earlier been “intercepted and destroyed”. Earlier on Thursday, the ministry said it shot down one drone approaching a district housing foreign embassies, and another in the eastern region.
* Oman: A drone attack damaged several fuel tanks at the port of Salalah, an act strongly condemned by Qatar as a dangerous escalation. Iran has denied being behind the attack.
* Bahrain: The country responded to an Iranian attack on fuel tanks in Muharraq, urging residents to stay indoors to avoid smoke.
* UAE: The United Arab Emirates intercepted a massive wave of Iranian projectiles, including six ballistic missiles, seven cruise missiles, and 39 drones on March 11. Citibank has told The Associated Press news agency that it will close all its branches except one following a threat from Iran to target financial institutions in the region.
* Kuwait: Six electricity transmission lines in Kuwait went out of service after debris from intercepted drones fell on the infrastructure, the country’s Ministry of Electricity said on Thursday. Earlier, the Gulf country intercepted several drones, though one struck a residential building, wounding two people.
* Espionage arrests: Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior said four Bahraini citizens were arrested on charges of spying for Iran’s IRGC.
* Qatar Airways to resume flights: The airline said it will operate 29 flights to and from Doha on Thursday after receiving temporary government authorisation.
* ‘Proud as a Qatari’: Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani praised the unity of citizens and residents during repeated Iranian attacks, pledging to keep daily life
undisrupted.
* Trump rebuffs oil price concerns: The US president wrote on social media that stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons was “of far greater interest and importance to me” than controlling oil prices.
* ‘Targeting error’ likely led to school strike: An Iranian school was likely hit by a US Tomahawk missile due to a targeting mistake, The New York Times reported, quoting US officials.
* US war costs hit $11.3bn in six days: The opening week of the war cost the US military more than $11.3bn, lawmakers were told in a Pentagon briefing, according to media reports.
* Ongoing military campaign: The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that approximately 6,000 targets have been struck in Iran since the operations began. Additionally, more than 90 Iranian vessels, including over 30 mine-laying ships, have been damaged or destroyed.
* No time limit for operation: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation “will continue without any time limit, as long as required, until we achieve all objectives and win the campaign”.
* Israeli soldiers wounded: The military says 14 Israeli soldiers have been injured since the war began, including six in southern Lebanon.
* 179 injured in 24 hours: Israel’s Ministry of Health says 179 people were injured in the last 24 hours, with the majority of them being in “mild condition”.
* ‘Large-scale’ Beirut strikes: The Israeli military said it began a “large-scale wave of strikes” on Hezbollah infrastructure in the Dahiyeh area.
* Iran’s missiles detected: The Israeli military said it had detected missiles fired from Iran heading towards Israeli territory.
* Israel moves further into Lebanon: The Israeli
military moved further into southern Lebanon, telling residents to “move immediately north of the Zahrani River”, 40km (25 miles) from the Israeli border.
* Turkiye warns Israel over Lebanon: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called for an end to Israel’s bombardment of neighbouring Lebanon “before it collapses”, a disaster that would “profoundly affect the entire region”.
* Lebanon toll rises: The Lebanese government said the death toll in the war between Israel and Hezbollah was more than 630 people, while some 800,000 have registered as displaced.
* Oil tankers attacked off Iraq: Two oil tankers were attacked off Iraq’s coast, government officials told the INA news agency. At least one crew member of a ship was killed, and several were missing, while 38 people had been rescued.
* Maritime warfare and economic impact: The war continues to disrupt global trade, with oil prices climbing to $100 a barrel. In response, the International Energy Agency is releasing a record 400 million barrels of crude oil, with the US contributing 172 million barrels to calm markets.
* Emergency talks on Hormuz: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) announced an “extraordinary session” next week to discuss threats to shipping in the Middle East and particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. (Source: Al Jazeera)
Manager at the SVGCF, gave the VINCENTIAN an insight of the project.
FOR THE NEXT TWELVE MONTHS, young sailors attached to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sailing Association, along with forty students from two schools, will be part of the “Tide Turners- Stewards of the Sea” Initiative.
Supported by an injection of EC$22,000 from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Conservation Fund (SVGCF), the project had its official launch on Friday March 6, 2026, at the Vincy Sail Club, Coconut Grove.
The environmentfocused initiative will see youth involved in sailing and others playing a pivotal part in the monitoring of activities within the South Coast Marine Management Area.
Jodesha Ryan, the Accounts and Admin
“First of all, we are happy to be part of the project as it supports work being done on the South Coast Marine Managed Area. This project will entail educational awareness workshops, clean-ups built around Sailing, monitoring and stewardship weekly surveys of turtles, birds, erosion, and pollution,” she outlined.
Ryan emphasized that the overall aim is to create a cleaner Marine environment for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“Apart from the young sailors who will be trained as stewards, two schools and forty students will be engaged in the Marine Conservation initiative, so we will have cleaner beaches, stronger communities and more environment stewardship
across the island.”
Noting that her organization sees their input as more than funding, Ryan advanced, “This is not a grant given to the organization; this is an investment into our youth and our marine environment, and we look forward to the outcome of the project and look forward to what the young sailors will do”.
Ryan reiterated that
will oversee the project.
The first session of the project took place on
the SVGC, a nonprofit organization that supports biodiversity, hence the Tide TurnersStewards of the Sea project falls within their mandate.
Also at last Saturday’s launch, five young sailors gave brief remarks on their encounters with marine life and changes observed while on their sailing routines, especially on the South Coast.
Joshua Gooding, an Educational Consultant and Anne Weindhardt,
AFTER SERVING AS HEAD
COACH of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football Team for about a year and a half, Ezra Hendrickson has resigned. This was confirmed by the St.
Making a pledge on the conservation board.
Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), in a release made public last Saturday, March 7, 2026.
The release also stated that Hendrickson’s fellow Layou bornWayde Jackson, “takes over as Interim Coach.”
Jackson was the First Assistant to Hendrickson during his tenure.
The newly installed Interim Coach immediately must make a quick elevation as St. Vincent and the Grenadines plays Bonaire and Barbados in international friendlies, March 26 and March 29, respectively.
According to the release signed by General Secretary — Peter Edward, Hendrickson “has received and accepted a professional opportunity, which has necessitated his departure from the role”.
THE VINCENTIAN understands that Hendrickson has accepted a coaching job with the MLS outfit Houston Dynamo FC.
During his tenure, beginning in 2024, with the SVG senior national team, Hendrickson was
able to craft a notable win over El Salvador and a draw with Jamaica.
These go along with other triumphs versus Bonaire, Anguilla and Montserrat in Concacaf competitions.
Apart from his stewardship with the senior team, recently Hendrickson worked as the Head Coach for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Under-20 Men’s outfit.
A former St. Vincent and the Grenadines captain, Hendrickson, before his employment with the SVGFF, was the Head Coach of Major League Soccer clubChicago Fire from 2021 to 2023.
Before his elevation to Head Coach, Hendrickson served as Assistant Coach with the Seattle Sounders and Head Coach of the Reserve Team.
Assistant Coach’s stints with the LA Galaxy and Columbus Crew, all added to Hendrickson’s resume.
Hendrickson spent sixteen years as player in the MLS, representing LA Galaxy, Dallas Burns, Metro Stars, Chivas USA, DC United, and Columbus Crew.
DAVISmade the Under-17 Girls standards in the 3000m on day one, Saturday, March 7, when Team Athletics SVG held its 2026 Carifta Trials at the Diamond Track Facility.
Davis, competing for High Performance, clocked 11:07.61 in the seven and a half laps event, finishing better than the minimum qualification time of 11:09.
Davis, a Form One student of the Barrouallie Secondary School, turns 13 later this year, may be deemed ineligible for participation in the 53rd edition of the Carifta Games.
According to the 2026 Manual of the Games set for April 4 to 6, at the Kirani James Stadium, athletes for the Under-17 age category, must be born during 2010, 2011 or 2012.
This clause may well rule out Davis’ participation but has signalled that she is one for the future.
Also making the standards on day one of the trials, was Isiah Patterson of the St. Vincent Grammar School, who leapt to the minimum qualification height of 1.90m in the
Under-20 Boys High Jump.
Then on Sunday, day
two of the trials, the High Performance duo of Kesiann John and Jaheim Williams placed
SYSTEM THREE
remains the lone undefeated outfit in the Vincy Soccer Premier League (VSPL), when they registered a 2-1 win over previously unbeaten Layou, last Sunday night, March 8, 2026, at the Brighton Technical Centre.
Responsible for the come-from-behind win were leading goal scorer- Azinho Solomon, who found the equalizer from the penalty spot, and Zebeon Cunningham who scored the winner.
Koby Mingot had put Layou in front, before System Three took charge.
Before the top of the table clash, BESCO Pastures got past North Leeward Predators, 2-0. Donte Enville and Jordon Mc Kenzie were the goal scorers. Also on Sunday, Avenues United and Bequia United drew three goals apiece.
Jamal Ollivierre scored two and Mark Browne the other for Bequia United, while Kadel Hector hit a brace and an own goal accounted for Avenues’ goals.
On Friday March 6, Hope International and Awesome drew nil-nil and Camdonia- Chelsea saw off Je Belle, 2-1.
Scoring for Camdonia- Chelsea were Jamal Bishop and Barack
Obama Barbour and for Je Belle — Delano Benjamin.
Following week six, System Three sits on 16 points, with BESCO- Pastures second on 12 points.
Layou slips to third place on 11 points. Je Belle, with 10 points, is in fourth place, while North Leeward Predators are also on 10 points in fifth place.
Awesome occupies sixth place on 7 points; Hope International is seventh on 5 points, while Camdonia- Chelsea is eighth on 4 points.
Bequia United and Avenues,
both on 3 points, occupy the ninth and tenth positions, respectively.
Week seven of the VSPL switches to Independence Park (Victoria Park) with another five matches.
On Friday March 13, from 7pm, Je Belle faces Awesome and from 9pm, Camdonia- Chelsea takes on Bequia United.
Sunday, March 15, hosts three matches. From 3:30pm, Hope International opposes BESCO Pastures, then Layou plays Avenues from 6pm and from 8pm, North Leeward Predators meet System Three.
their names in the selection reckoning.
John accumulated 3640 points, more than the 3343 required in the Girls Under-20 Heptathlon, while Williams accumulated 4961 points, eclipsing the 4952 qualifying mark for the Under-20 Boys Decathlon.
The latest qualifiers join Ethan Kent, Evonte Nimblett, Trevel Sylvan
and J’avair Cato, who had all qualified previously.
Kent and Nimblett, both of the St. Vincent Grammar School, qualified in the Under-17 Boys High Jump; Sylvan of the X — Ceed Sports Club, the Under-20 Boys High Jump; and Cato, who represent Jamaica College, the Under-20 Boys Long Jump and Triple Jump.
MC KISH COMPTONhas bettered the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Men’s 60m outdoor record. Compton who held the mark, broke his own record at the QWICK Meet 2026 at GC Foster College in Spanish Town, Jamaica last Saturday, March 7. Running out of lane two, Compton clocked 6.66s to eclipse his personal best and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines record of 6.67s. He had reset the national record at the same meet in 2025.
Compton in 2024, timed 6.69s to equal the record with Earl Simmons.
Kish Compton has shown marked improvement in the 60m, between 2024 and 2026.
Apart from his 60m record, Compton is part of the quartet that holds the St. Vincent and the Grenadines 4 x 100m record. Compton, Javin Rawlins, Earl Simmons and Sage Primus, timed 40.02s in 2022.
Before their 2022 feat, Compton, Rawlins, OJ Jackson and Akani Slater held the record of 40.13s.
INDIA’S VICTORY OVER NEW ZEALAND in the 2026 T20 World Cup final, March 8, marked a historic achievement as they set multiple records.
#1: The victory over New Zealand in Ahmedabad made India the First team with three men’s T20 World Cup titles.
India’s earlier titles in 2007 and 2024 had already placed them among the format’s modern giants, but the 2026 victory takes them clear of every rival.
India now stands alone on that count. That is not just dominance. That is ownership.
#2: In winning the 2026 edition of the ICC World Cup, India became the First team to defend the men’s T20 World Cup title India did not simply win the title in 2024 and return as contenders in 2026. They returned with the weight of expectation, and they won it again.
India are the first to prove that even in a tournament
designed to resist continuity, greatness can still come backto-back.
#3: The victory in Ahmedabad established India as the First team to win the men’s T20 World Cup at home.
Home World Cups are supposed to offer comfort, but they often carry their own traps. The crowd becomes an emotional load as much as an advantage.
India managed to turn all of that into fuel. By winning the 2026 edition on home soil, they became the first men’s team to lift the T20 World Cup in their own country. That gives this title a distinct place even among India’s major white-ball successes.
#3: And the 2026 victory over New Zealand meant that India has now accumulated the Most ICC titles.
With this title, India moved to 14 ICC trophies across the men’s senior and Under-19 events, taking them past Australia’s 13 and leaving West Indies on 6.
This is proof of a system that has kept producing winning teams across eras and levels.
#5: The March 08, 2026 was Indian fourth appearance in a men’s T20 World Cup final. It means that Indian is now the team with the Most men’s T20 World Cup final appearances.
From the inaugural title run in 2007 to the 2014 final, the triumph in 2024 and now the 2026 crown, India has remained a recurring presence at the format’s highest stage.
#6: And then came the final flourish, the record that
JUDAH CAMBRIDGE, Adrian Parris and Richol Richards took top honors in the Class A Category, Class B Category and Class C Category respectively, when the VINCY 900 Archery Competition took place on February 28, 2026. For the first time in the short history of the Archery Association of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, local archers were able to officially compete in the inaugural VINCY 900 SHOOT. This is a unique competition format that
is used to hone the skills of archers by having them shoot 30 arrows at 3 different distances... totaling 90 arrows and a possible maximum score of 900. There is no elimination round in this format.
The event was broken into 3 separate mixedgender classes based on experience levels. Class A saw newcomers. Class B saw beginners and Class C saw intermediate archers.
To complete the top finishers: Class A Category -2nd Place was
captured the sheer force of India’s performance on the night itself — the highest total in a men’s T20 World Cup final.
Matthew Joachim with Jordan Seaman in third; Class B Category2nd place was Nicholas Deane and Arush Ballapalli third’; Rayon Clarke was 2nd in Class C Category with Marese Burgin in the
third spot.
Reviews from the archers are positive and a second 900 shoot may be scheduled for later this year.
The archers continue to train for the opportunity to compete in overseas competitions. However, the next competitive event will be SVG’s first national ranking tournament set to begin in late April.
I.B.A. ALLEN
India’s 255 for 5 against New Zealand is now the highest total ever posted in a men’s T20 World Cup final.
That score was more than a platform for victory. It was a declaration that India was not just the best team in the competition, but a team ready to redefine what
dominance in a final can look like.
India did not simply retain a trophy. They became the first men’s side to win three T20 World Cups, the first to defend the crown, the first to do it at home, moved to the top of the Men’s ICC title count, reached a record fourth T20 World Cup final, and signed off with the highest score ever seen in a men’s T20 World Cup final.
That is not just a champion’s resume. That is the profile of a team that has pushed itself to the centre of cricket history. (Source: Hindustan Times)
LEFT-HAND BATSMAN / LEGSPIN BOWLER Jerden Charles will lead a 14-member St. Vincent and the Grenadines Under-19 team to compete in the 2026 WINLOTT Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB) Under-19 Cricket Championship, to be held in Dominica from April 9th to April 19th, 2026.
The squad was announced by the national selectors earlier this week, following five 50 overs practice matches, played at the Sion Hill Playing field.
The selected quad will play a 5match series against the National U23 Team as part of their continued preparation and development ahead of future
competition, a posting on local cricket Association’s Facebook page said.
Charles will have wicketkeeper batter Jawayne Adams as his deputy. The rest of the squad reads: Alston Bobb Jr, Zack Thomas, Ozaid Edwards, Kesean Hoyte, Kevin Joseph, Kazado Henry, Damali Phillips, Deandre Dougan, Elron Glasgow, Lebran Douglas, Shane Roberts, Olani Slack. Reserves include: Christiano Adams, Shamyia Nanton, Jamaine Keal, Delroy Tittle, Ronaldo Warren, and Cody Slater. Dominica are the defending champions of Under-19 Windward cricket having won the 2025
Jorden Charles, an allrounder, captain of the SVG U19 cricket team.
WINLOTT Windward Islands Under-19 Cricket Champions. They finished with five wins out of six matches to secure the title.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Continued from Backpage.
Nations with CPL teams–including Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana–have benefited from increased exposure, tourism, and opportunities for their local players,” Dr. Shallow noted.
“A franchise would also create pathways for young Vincentian cricketers to train and compete alongside experienced international T20 stars, while providing opportunities in coaching, management, and sports development,” he continued.
With matches scheduled for this season and the possibility of a CPL franchise on the horizon, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is positioning itself to play a greater role in the region’s premier T20 competition.
Forever in the thoughts of your Wife, Children Grandchildren, Relatives and Friends
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.
Building Lots for sale at North Union Tel: 593-9787
17,456 square feet Contact Tel: 428-739 Palmist, Layou
Stories by KENVILLE HORNE
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is set to host three matches in this year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
Dr. Kishore Shallow, this country’s
Minister of Tourism and sitting
President of Cricket West Indies Inc., confirmed this and went one step further saying the country may soon take an even bigger step by securing its own CPL franchise.
The three matches to be played at the Arnos Vale Playing Field are described as neutral matches, and are expected to commence at 7:00pm on dates yet to be announced.
Dr. Shallow said, however, that promotion of the matches is set to begin shortly.
The opportunity to stage CPL games came after discussions between the government and league organizers, who were seeking a neutral venue in the region, Dr. Shakllow said.
“Both sides have reportedly agreed to terms, and preparations are underway to ensure an exciting atmosphere for fans and visitors,” he added.
Beyond hosting matches this year, the government has also expressed strong interest in owning a CPL franchise.
According to officials, the League has already responded with a letter of intent indicating the possibility of establishing a franchise in St. Vincent and the Grenadines by
Dr. Kishore Shallow, Minister of Tourism/President of CWI, announced the news that he sees has have the dual potential for exposure of uouth cricketers and tourism rebounds for the country.
2027.
“If the plan becomes reality, it would mark a significant milestone for the country’s cricket development.
Continued on Page 31.
Senior Prison Officer Garth Clarke, gave an outline of the course/programme, and pointed out how it can help incarcerated individuals.
FOURTEEN INMATES at the Belle Isle Correctional Facility graduated from a Social Skills Training Programme last Tuesday, March 10.
The progrmme, part of ongoing efforts to support rehabilitation and personal development among incarcerated individuals, was an initiative that was implemented in collaboration with the Adult and Continuing Education Division of the Ministry of Education. Addressing the Graduation Ceremony, Senior Prison Officer Garth Clarke explained that the course “aims to encourage positive change and help inmates develop tools that will assist them in making better decisions and building healthier relationships.”
He commended the participants for their dedication and willingness to take part in the course, adding that their commitment demonstrates a desire to improve themselves and pursue a more positive path after their release.
According to Clarke, the social skills programme equipped participants with valuable tools for personal development.
Topics covered included conflict resolution, anger management, communication, and decision-making.
Some of the inmates who participated in the programme. (API)
“These are essential life skills that help individuals better understand themselves, manage their emotions, and respond to challenges in constructive ways,” Clarke said.
He added that while “incarceration restricts freedom, it does not have to limit personal growth.
“Time spent in custody
can also be time invested in self-improvement, learning, and preparation for a better future,” Clarke noted, adding that the graduation ceremony was a clear demonstration of that principle. He encouraged the graduates to continue applying what they learned as they work toward building better lives after their time in incarceration.