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Dr. Douglas Highlights Osaka Expo 2025 as Key Platform for Global Partnerships and Sustainable Investment

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Dr. Douglas Highlights Osaka Expo 2025 as Key Platform for Global Partnerships and Sustainable Investment

DR. DOUGLAS HIGHLIGHTS OSAKA EXPO 2025 AS KEY PLATFORM FOR GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS AND SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT

Osaka, Japan, August 20, 2025 (SKNIS): Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, emphasised the Osaka 2025 Expo as a strategic platform for strengthening international partnerships and attracting sustainable investment for Saint Kitts and Nevis.

“What we’re seeing here today is Saint Kitts and Nevis using the invitation provided by Japan to showcase what Saint Kitts and Nevis is all about. What it is that drives the people of our country, what it is that would entice investors to participate in our people and our economic development,” said Dr. Douglas, during a brief interview.

He underscored the critical role of the Federation’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.

“There’s no doubt that here in the audience were several schools of people who are citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis, mainly having achieved that through our Citizenship by Investment Programme. And that is why the programme is so critically important in terms of sustaining our economic development,” said the Foreign Minister, who also serves as the Minister of Investment.

Dr. Douglas outlined the Federation’s openness to business as the diversified economy features many opportunities for investment.

“We are a country having successfully transitioned from short agriculture to diversified agriculture and hospitality and tourism services, information and communication technology services, international financial services, and moving strongly towards investment in these different areas that would sustain our development as a people for the future,” he said.

The Senior Minister further encouraged global investors to engage with the Federation in a sustainable and forward-looking manner. He noted that, beyond the services currently offered, investors are invited to participate in the country’s leading productive sectors while ensuring that investments, particularly in infrastructure such as renewable energy and water, support long-term economic and social development. He also highlighted opportunities in education and technology, referencing the Expo’s robotics exhibits as an example of the Federation’s commitment to innovation and the importance of investing in education to sustain future progress.

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Saint Kitts and Nevis Hosts Workshop on the Treaty of San José to Bolster Maritime Security and Counter Drug Trafficking

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Saint Kitts and Nevis Hosts Workshop on the Treaty of San José to Bolster Maritime Security and Counter Drug Trafficking

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, August 19, 2025 (SKNIS) – The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, in collaboration with the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Department of State, is hosting a two-day Consultative Workshop on the Treaty of San José.

The Treaty of San José is an agreement designed to strengthen cooperation in suppressing illicit maritime and air trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances across the Caribbean. It aims to enhance coordination among Caribbean states to detect, intercept, and dismantle illicit trafficking operations—while upholding international law and respecting national sovereignty.

The August 19–20 workshop at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort brings together key maritime and government stakeholders to deliberate on critical aspects of the Treaty. Participants will engage in expert presentations, discussions, and practical exercises, including simulations that demonstrate solutions to challenges encountered during interdiction operations.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ms. Nadine Bushell, Assistant Director of Projects at CARICOM IMPACS, underscored the significance of the initiative, stating that, “By hosting this consultative workshop, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is demonstrating its steadfast commitment to advancing regional cooperation in maritime security.”

She noted further, “The region has a Caribbean maritime security strategy, which reminds us that the seas are not only a source of opportunity, but also an area of vulnerability. Our ocean space sustains our economies through tourism, trade, and fisheries, yet it also faces serious threats from illicit trafficking, illegal fishing, environmental crimes, and climate-induced risks. The Caribbean maritime security strategy, therefore, calls on us to build a coordinated regional security architecture, which promotes sovereignty while fostering solidarity through cooperation between Caribbean states, institutions, and development partners.”

Acting Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, emphasised the importance of maritime security to national development, not just for Saint Kitts and Nevis but the wider Caribbean region as well.

“Crime has evolved to a transactional phenomenon. Hence, the need for greater cooperation and collaboration between nations is extremely important,” Acting Prime Minister Hanley stated. “Therefore, the support of the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is greatly appreciated.”

Dr. Hanley also recalled remarks made earlier this year by Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, who noted that by joining this treaty, Saint Kitts and Nevis is signalling to the world its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the waters that sustain us, connect us, and define us as a people.

“The treaty will strengthen the Federation’s ability to confront organised trafficking networks operating in Caribbean waters and enhance legal and operational frameworks for collective enforcement among partner states,” he said.

The two-day workshop represents a vital step in consolidating regional security efforts and reinforcing the Caribbean’s collective response to illicit trafficking threats.

Weather Expert Burke: ‘We are not trying to be God…’

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Weather Expert Burke: ‘We are not trying to be God…’

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Wednesday 13th August 2025)-Senior Meteorological Officer Elmo Burke is urging members of the public to always pay close attention to all advisories issued during the hurricane season, as he dismissed a common mistaken belief that weather experts are “trying to be God.”

He made the disclosure during the first episode of the new season of NEMA’s (National Emergency Management Agency) ‘From Danger to Safety’ aired live on Tuesday 12th August 2025.

“…some of the main misconceptions in terms of forecasting is persons think that we are trying to be God. We are not trying to be God. What we are trying to do, we’re looking at the weather conditions at the time.”

He went on to say: “…additionally, when we do our forecast, what we try to do is give a probability of the best of the conditions that are likely to experience within the next whether it be 12 or 24 hours as it may be. So what we are doing is we’re giving you the likelihood of conditions occurring. So we are not saying with 100% certainty that this will happen because we’re not God and we do recognize that weather is dynamic in nature. The weather can change and it’s important for us as meteorologists and forecasters and even the observers to continuously monitor the evolution or the changes in the weather conditions.”

Burke stressed that while forecasts are grounded in scientific analysis, they are always subject to change.

“…we do recognize that weather is quite dynamic in nature, and because of this dynamism, we do recognize that sometimes our forecast may be perceived as wrong but bear in mind, what we would have done, we would have given you a snapshot of conditions that are likely to be based on what we are analyzing at the time. However, subtle changes can happen and that can alter forecasts and as such we will make the necessary adjustments in our updated forecast…”

 and it’s important for the general public not just to listen for the forecast one time one time per day it’s important that if we here at the met office we issue our forecast twice per day so we will be providing regular updates so that regular updates will allow you to recognize that there are changes happening, and we will try to capture those changes in our updated forecast.”

He is particularly advising individuals to be on the alert as we enter the peak season.

 “So again, just want to say we do recognize that we are in the hurricane season, and it’s important that the general public start to have their plans in place. We do recognize that we are going into the peak season. It’s important that you have your plans in place. If you don’t know what to do, you can always reach out to NEMA and NEMA can provide you some assistance, some guidance as to what you can do to stay safe, especially as we go into the peak period of the hurricane season.”

Burke further explained that weather prediction is never foolproof.

“In relation to the prediction of weather, we do recognize that it’s a prediction, it’s a forecast. So it is not 100% fool proof. At times, yes, the forecast would be in line with what is actually happening. However, because there is the chance that it may not happen, that’s why we look at the probability. So when we do in a forecast, we’re actually given the probability of weather conditions occurring at a particular time, at a particular place, and in a particular space. So weather is dynamic in nature. So these changes, subtle changes can happen, and it’s important for us as meteorologists and forecasters to monitor these weather conditions and make the necessary adjustments so that it could be in line or as close as possible to what will happen. So our aim is to get to perfect conditions.”

“However, because we are not God, what we try to do is give you a snapshot of what the conditions are likely to be, and we would give you the probability of those weather conditions occurring,” he shared.

For general weather information, individuals can contact NEMA via 465-1000 (WhatsApp included) or visit Facebook-NEMA-NationalEmergencyManagementAgencySKN).

Sugar Mas Monarch Closes Six-Year Placement Gap At Leeward Islands Calypso Competition

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Sugar Mas Monarch Closes Six-Year Placement Gap At Leeward Islands Calypso Competition

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 14th August 2025)- Tariq ‘King Drewzy’ Drew of St. Kitts, the reigning Sugar Mas Calypso Monarch, proudly walked away with the second runner-up position (third place) in the recently held Leeward Islands Calypso Competition on Saturday 9th August 2025.

The 28th annual event, staged at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre, featured a fierce field of nine calypsonians representing countries across the region. Drewzy impressed the judges and audience alike with his commanding performance of “New Deal, earning 761 points.

In a celebratory note, the St. Kitts-Nevis Carnival Committee shared a fun fact on its official Facebook page: “This would be the first time that St. Kitts has placed in competition since 2019.”

Front Page Photo: Tariq “King Drewzy” Drew (center) flanked by team members Shonroy Caesar (left) and Patrice Harris.(Credit: Facebook – St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival)

Notably, in that same year, Miss Independent (Karisia Willett) of St. Kitts also secured a second runner-up spot in the competition- making King Drewzy’s achievement a proud continuation of the island’s regional calypso legacy.

This year’s crown went to 19-year-old Ge’Eve Phillip of Antigua and Barbuda, who made history as the youngest performer to ever win the competition, scoring an impressive 826 points. Queen Roxxy of Anguilla claimed first runner-up with 771 points.

Environment Officer: Customer Complaints Helping To Enforce Second Phase Plastic Ban

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Environment Officer: Customer Complaints Helping To Enforce Second Phase Plastic Ban

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 7th August 2025)-Environmental Officer Sherverne Gardener says the second phase of the Federation’s single-use plastic ban has been going well overall, with the exception of a few non-compliant businesses identified through customer complaints.
Speaking during the ‘Issues’ programme aired on Freedom FM on Thursday 7th August 2025-as part of a public awareness campaign he expressed thanks to the public for its cooperation and growing awareness.
While on topic of the passing of the second phase of the single-use plastic ban which was put into effect on the 31st of July, noting that the latest phase of the ban targets Styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, and food-service clamshell containers.
“Today we’ll focus on the second phase which are targeted Styrofoam food containers, egg crates and plastic straws. So as of July the 31st, the sale and distribution which means no retail business outlet, restaurant, supermarkets are supposed to have Styrofoam food containers, food containers, Styrofoam egg crates or plastic straws on their shelves. And they shouldn’t be selling. They’re not allowed or they’re prohibited by regulation and legislation to do so. So that’s what we’re here to speak about. We want to keep the momentum going because, of course, public awareness and behavioural change depends on repetition and continuity”
He also noted that enforcement efforts are being supported by vigilant consumers: “I must applaud the public and stakeholders. Like I said, they’ve been working with us and most persons have been complying although we have some not, and we welcome it because we tell the stores and the business places ‘listen, it is the customers you guys hand these things to that call us and they let us know that you guys are still …breaking the law’.”
According to Gardener: “Today for the morning, I spent the morning actually visiting some of these establishments to assess, basically to verify complaints and there were some establishments, one or two Chinese restaurants that were still carrying on with the Styrofoam plastic. See, they still had them on the shelf and I had to approach and speak to them about them, give them the first warning and you can see I had some printed there, handed them the information, and basically told them that they’ll have to take it down from the shelf within twenty four hours, and they complied and that the kind of collaboration we’re hoping for from everyone.”
He also highlighted that while education and awareness are the priority, the law does carry penalties: “We don’t want to necessarily fine someone because the first fine is $3,000. We ask persons to adhere because we tell persons, it’s been three months… it was just to this ban, it’s been three months. However, most persons can see the alternatives that are out there. I’m sure persons realize now that they’re getting their food in a paper food container which is very strong of course.”
Gardener noted the growing national togetherness, saying “…we feel a sense of solidarity so far, excluding the one or two persons who will be [reject] to change but I would say persons are dealing with it well and adhering to it well.”

“Ah miss me child…” Says Janelika Romney’s Father 

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“Ah miss me child…” Says Janelika Romney’s Father 

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Wednesday 6th August 2025)-“Ah miss me child and a wish she coulda been here wid me.”

So said grieving father Janel Romney during an exclusive interview with this media house at a ‘March For Justice’ event held in Basseterre on Friday 1st August 2025 in memory of 15-year-old murder victim Janelika Romney- organized by Silence No More, a local group advocating against gender-based violence.

Photo: Janel Romney, marches along Fort Street during a ‘March For Justice’ event through the streets of Basseterre on Friday 1st August 2025 in memory of his daughter 15-year-old murder victim Janelika Romney (Spokesman Snap)

The march, though not massive in numbers, was deeply symbolic-aimed at raising awareness about the urgent need to protect young girls and for getting a sex offender registry in St.Kitts-Nevis. 

Asked about the event and how it made him feel, Romney said “De march is alright… at least dey represent for her.”

He carried a placard displaying his daughter’s photo with the written info- ‘Sunrise: Feb.15.2010, Sunset: June 16, 2025.’ 

He also shared a personal note about how his daughter’s name was created, saying “De first part is mine.”

When asked if he has any other children, he responded: “Me no got no more children. She is the only one ah have right now.”

The Founder and President of the organization Silence No More, Petra Mc Sheene-Morton, spoke about the motivation behind the event. 

“Today we are marching… in honor of Janelika Romney, the teenager that lost her life so tragically. So this is what is basically taking place. We’re here with her father, her godfather and some of her school friends, and other supporters. This march was organized to say we’ve had enough of our young girls being abused and being preyed upon. So this march is basically saying enough is enough. Let us not lose another young child, a teenager this way.”

Photo: (Left)Founder and President of the organization ‘Silence No More’ Petra Mc Sheene-Morton and Janel Romney pose a photo during the march (Spokesman Snap)

She also highlighted the essence of the march, and provided a response to what she would say to onlookers about the size. “We’re marching in honor of Janelika. If you have a mother, if you have a sister, if you have a niece who is underage-just join the march in solidarity and put your voice out there for the voiceless.”

Addressing how society can make a difference going forward, Mc Sheene-Morton added: “We need to go back to being like a community could raise a child. Yes, we need to go back to that, because to me, in my opinion, I feel like the whole Federation failed Janelika because when her missing poster went out, nobody took it seriously. And see, when we did take it serious, it was really serious for real. So I think we need to go back to the community raising a child… learn how to listen to your child, learn how to respect your child, and learn how to honor her wishes… you have to go back to the old-time parenting.”

Her placard with Janelika’s image read: ‘March For Me!! Speak For Me!! Fight for Justice’.

As gathered, the organization Silence No More has been in operation since 2013 and is actively involved in awareness campaigns, especially during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. The group’s a vision is to educate the public on issues of domestic violence against women, men and children. 

“We have a youth retreat for teenagers coming up. So we are very active,” McSheene-Morton commented. 

Also present at the march was youth advocate, President of Dare to Be Different International and Leader of the Victory Centre Khyrstus Wallace, who gave his full support to the cause.

“I’m always a youth advocate, standing up for rights for children and youth. Janelika falls into that category… and I think what has happened to her, especially as a child, it was a big injustice,” he said.

His placard had the message: ‘15 Forever #JusticeForJanelika’.

Wallace continued: “and then To find out who allegedly committed the injustice against her-you know-it is hard-wrenching as a man… because we know that quote-unquote ‘Men don’t have a good name per se with regards to respecting girls and women’. So I’m here standing up for Janelika on the side of women because I came from a woman. I have women as a part of my family, girls as a part of my family, and I think any right-minded citizen should be supporting what the effort is here, and so when the message came to my phone, I had to support..”

He applauded Petra Mc Sheene-Morton and her team for organizing the march and added a strong call to society saying: “Let us respect ourselves, let us respect others, let us respect children.”

Interested persons can reach out via 669-1983 (WhatsApp included) or find the group on Facebook at SilenceNoMore.

Jump in Salute of Freedom – Not Just for Entertainment

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Jump in Salute of Freedom – Not Just for Entertainment

Editorial- Friday 8th August 2025

How many of us truly understand the reason behind our Emancipation holiday here in St. Kitts and Nevis-and by extension, the wider Caribbean?

As much as we are a people who thoroughly enjoy a good holiday fete, we must pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of this observance. Emancipation is more than just another day off or an opportunity to party in the streets. It commemorates one of the most significant turning points in our collective history-the formal end of chattel slavery and the beginning of a long, ongoing journey toward self-determination and dignity.

This holiday period honours the generations before us who endured untold suffering under the inhumanity of slavery. It celebrates their strength, resilience and ultimately, their freedom. The blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors are woven into the very fabric of our society. And so, Emancipation must not be reduced to rum and rhythm alone.

Yes, celebration is important-it reminds us of our vibrancy, our culture and our survival. But even as we dance to the beat of the drums and jump in the carnival bands, let us also jump in salute of freedom. Let our revelry be a living tribute to the sacrifices made for us to live free.

This week’s visit of 91-year-old, Dr. Julius Garvey, son of the late celebrated black movement activist figure, Marcus Garvey, to St. Kitts and Nevis is a poignant reminder of how relevant and necessary it is for us to reconnect with our roots. 

Marcus Garvey famously said: “A people without knowledge of their past is like a tree without roots.” That quote must not be treated as a cliché but rather as a call to action.

How deeply rooted are we in our history? Do we know enough about the injustices our fore parents endured? Are we teaching our children the truth about our past so they can build a stronger, more conscious future?

Unfortunately, in too many cases, the answer is no. Our current academic system does not do enough to prioritize Black history, local history, or the complex legacies of colonialism and slavery. If we are to create a generation of proud, aware, and empowered citizens, we must restructure our educational system to reflect our true identity and history.

This Emancipation season, we must challenge ourselves to go beyond surface-level celebration. Walk with pride, yes. Dance in the streets, yes but also take time to read, to teach and to remember. Honour those who made freedom possible by using that freedom with intention.

Support local movements that promote cultural education. Demand that our schools and institutions do more to preserve and pass on our heritage. Talk to your elders. Share stories. Learn about the revolts, the heroes, the visionaries. 

Let us be the generation that celebrates with knowledge, dances with purpose and remembers with pride. Let us jump not just in joy but in salute of freedom.

2025 OECS Boxing Championship Successfully Concludes

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2025 OECS Boxing Championship Successfully Concludes

By: Spokesman Newsroom August 6, 2025

On Sunday, August 3, 2025, the three-day 2025 OECS Boxing Championship successfully concluded, with Saint Lucia successfully retaining the Team Champion Title.
The highly anticipated sporting event was held from August 1-3, 2025, at the Rodney Bay Pavilion, Saint Lucia, by the Saint Lucia Boxing Association in partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. The event was also supported by the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, Saint Lucia, National Lotteries Authority, Saint Lucia, the Embassy of France to the OECS, and the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee.
Now in its second year, the competition brought together youth, junior, and elite athletes from across the Eastern Caribbean, showcasing exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Over the three days, the Pavilion was filled with the sounds of gloves hitting pads, cheers from supporters, and the palpable energy of athletes fighting for national pride.

The event opened on August 1 with a spirited Opening Ceremony that combined official protocol with a celebration of regional unity. Distinguished guests included senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, and sporting leaders, alongside the athletes who proudly represented their nations.
Delivering remarks, the President of the Saint Lucia Boxing Association, Mr. David “Shakes” Christoher, stated:
“I want to thank the Trinidadians, I want to thank the Antiguans, I want to thank the Guyanese, who made it here tonight for the second annual OECS Invitational Boxing Championship. Tonight is a very special night for us. Bringing boxing Uptown, is how we would say it in the local parlance. We are accustomed to being Downtown, but now we are Uptown, and we want to thank all of these special people over here on my left, who brought us Uptown and I want to thank you the patrons, who made it here.”
Delivering remarks on behalf of Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, Dr. Roxanne Brizan-St. Martin, Programme Director, Health, Social Inclusion and Social Protection, OECS Commission, stated:
“The OECS Commission takes great pride in collaborating with the Saint Lucia Boxing Association, which was the first organisation to respond to our call after the inaugural Council of Ministers of Youth and Sports convened in 2024. The resurgence of the OECS Sports Championships, as advocated by our Council of Ministers, underscores our unwavering commitment to nurturing a more robust and united Eastern Caribbean.”
Extending remarks on behalf of His Excellency Francis Étienne, Ambassador of the French Republic to the OECS, Embassy of France, The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Dominico Ditaranto, noted:
“The French Embassy is happy to be part of this event. The reason why the French Embassy decided to sponsor the Saint Lucia Boxing Association with a grant of $15000.00 is because the objectives of the association meet the priorities that France established for its international cooperation. First of all: regional integration through sport. Regional integration through sport is one of the key pillars of our strategy of cooperation and cultural action and the theme of the tournament, stronger together resonates perfectly with the universal human values of sport.”
Addressing attendees and officially declaring the 2025 OECS Boxing Championships open, Honourable Kenson Casimir, Minister for Youth Development and Sports, Saint Lucia, remarked:
“Let me first and foremost congratulate the Saint Lucia Boxing Association, particularly, Mr. David ‘Shakes’ Christopher and his team, for putting on this event for another consecutive year. Let’s put our hands together for the Saint Lucia Boxing Association. I also want to commend the efforts of the other affiliates, including the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee who continue to support sports development in Saint Lucia financially, and of course, we see boxing as one of the fastest developing sports in Saint Lucia, and so their service to boxing is not unnoticed.”
The OECS Boxing Championships once again proved that the sport is alive and thriving in the region, inspiring a new generation of fighters to step into the ring with confidence and pride.

Final results are as follows:
Saint Lucia: 24 points (4 golds, 5 silvers, 2 bronzes)
Trinidad and Tobago (T&T): 16 points (4 golds, 2 silvers)
Guyana: 15 points (5 golds)
Antigua: 9 points (2 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze)
Martinique: 8 points (2 golds, 1 silver)
Special Recognition Awards:
Best Junior Boxer: Nacham Alex (Saint Lucia)
Best Female Boxer: Akeelah Vancooten (Guyana)
Best Youth Boxer: Terron Wintz (Guyana)
Best Elite Boxer: John Didier (Saint Lucia)

Music Festival Performers Honour Memory of Slain Teen Janelika Romney

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Music Festival Performers Honour Memory of Slain Teen Janelika Romney

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Monday 15th July 2025)-Amidst the energetic performances and feel-good atmosphere of the 25th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival, a solemn moment gripped patrons on night three (Saturday 28th June 2025) as performers paused to pay heartfelt tribute to the late 15-year-old Janelika Romney.

The teen’s lifeless body was discovered on June 27th in the White Gate area-ten days after she was reported missing.

Two songstresses Abena Amory of Nevis and Virgil Hodge of St. Kitts led moving musical tributes during their individual sets at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium venue, each using their voice to honour the teen’s memory and highlight the tragedy that has deeply affected the Federation.

Photo: Abena Amory performing at the 2025 St.Kittts Music Festival (Credit: Nady Delarosa Photography)

With images of Janelika on the stage screens, Abena Amory delivered a soul-stirring rendition of ‘Rise Up’ by American singer Andra Day. The emotional choice conveyed both sorrow and a powerful call for resilience and togetherness as the nation mourns.

Virgil Hodge’s performance saw her inviting the crowd to raise their phone lights in remembrance. “…this week, we lost a young lady…which shook our nation”, she told the crowd, before performing Luciano’s “In This Together,” calling for compassion and solidarity.

Romain Virgo performing at the 2025 St.Kittts Music Festival (Screenshot credit: Facebook/RomainVirgo)

Via a social media post, she shared her sentiments: “Singing ‘In This Together’ by Luciano sent chills through my entire body as I thought about the tragic loss of Janelika Romney. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”

She noted messages expressing the impact of her tribute. One noted: “I liked how you paid tribute to that young girl that lost her life.” while another added: “That performance gave me chills.”

While the show’s curtain closer Jamaican reggae star Romain Virgo did not directly reference the incident, his powerful delivery of “Dutty Man” during the early hours of Sunday, 29th June, resonated strongly with the audience.

Virgil Hodge performing at the 2025 St.Kittts Music Festival (Credit: RMN PHOTOBOX)

The hard-hitting lyrics of the song-which condemns predatory behaviour toward underage girls-struck a deep emotional chord with many in light of the circumstances surrounding Janelika’s death.

“I want everyone to represent once more… take out your phones, take out your lighters, light dem up in St. Kitts Music Festival right now; we’re saving the children of this world… I’m looking in the crowd… light dem up!” Romain Virgo called out during his performance.

The crowd erupted, singing along passionately as he belted out the third verse:

“Unoo fi talk up, talk up!
If unoo know dem thing yah ah gwan!
No badda wait til it too late
Alright now we fi sound the alarm…”

The chorus followed with even greater force:

“Yuh dutty man
Leave the people pickney dem alone
It’s a disgrace, man…
You’re just a waste man…”

One emotional patron shared with this media house: “That is one of my favourite songs, but hearing it at that time was very emotional for me. I cried. I got chills thinking about Janelika. That song is a very powerful one that society needs to pay attention to.”

Other entertainers on that night’s line-up saw Jennifer Hudson, Arya Starr and Christopher Martin.

Honouring Fathers: So Many Are Unsung Heroes in Our Lives

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Honouring Fathers: So Many Are Unsung Heroes in Our Lives

As Father’s Day approaches (15th June), it is a good occasion for us as a society to pause and reflect on the value and influence of fathers and father figures in our homes and communities. 

While Mother’s Day often brings a natural outpouring of love and celebration, Father’s Day unfortunately tends to be met with less enthusiasm and recognition. This disparity is often chalked up to the presence of absent or neglectful fathers-those ‘bad apples’ who have, regrettably, cast a shadow over the entire barrel. But it is neither fair nor wise to let a few unfortunate examples overshadow the countless men who show up every single day with love, patience, sacrifice, and strength for their children.

There are many among us-both children and adults-who hold dear the fond memories and lasting lessons imparted by present, dedicated fathers. These are the men who attend school meetings, provide guidance, show up to games and recitals, help with homework, offer a shoulder in tough times, and lead their families with humility and compassion. Some of them do this alongside a partner; others carry the load as single parents. Yes, single fathers exist, and they, too, deserve our full respect and recognition.

Fatherhood is not defined solely by biology. It is defined by presence, effort, consistency, and love. Those who choose to mentor, support, and guide young lives-whether as stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, teachers, pastors, coaches, or close family friends-are just as worthy of our honour and gratitude.

This June, as we mark both Father’s Day and Men’s Mental Health Month, let us also remember that men, too, face emotional and psychological challenges. Too often, society expects men to be stoic, strong, and unflinching-but rarely allows them the space to be vulnerable, to feel, or to seek help. If we are truly committed to stronger families and healthier communities, then we must begin creating safe, supportive environments where fathers and all men feel empowered to speak up, open up, and ask for support when needed.

Let us use this season to not only celebrate the fathers who are doing it right, but to encourage those who may be struggling to do better. A supportive word, a helping hand, and community understanding can go a long way in turning trying fathers into thriving ones.

To all the dads, granddads, father figures, and men who show up and give their best: we see you, we thank you, and we honour you.

Happy Father’s Day.

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