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BVI and UN Collaborate to Boost Development Finance for Eastern Caribbean Governments

Published

11 months ago

May 21, 2024

Editor

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the United Nations (UN) are working together to enhance the access of several Eastern Caribbean governments to development finance for sustainable development and climate resilience.

This collaboration was highlighted during a recent ‘Policy Dialogue on Improving Access to Development Finance in Eastern Caribbean Overseas Territories’ hosted by the BVI Government and co-Chaired with the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean (RCO) ahead of the upcoming Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda from from May 27 – 30.

According to a May 20 government statement, talks focused on the governments of Anguilla, BVI, and Montserrat and other Eastern Caribbean Overseas Territories, which are striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, but currently do not qualify for certain types of financing.

Nearly eighty participants from fourteen UN agencies, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), the UK Government, the Aruba Government, and the Governments of Anguilla, BVI and Montserrat attended the event.

They focused on the challenges faced by these territories due to their limited access to concessional financing, grants, and climate finance, which hampers their efforts to build sustainable and climate-resilient societies.

Speaking on the success of the Policy Dialogue, BVI Representative to the UN in Latin America and the Caribbean Special Envoy Benito Wheatley stressed that “This was a very important step in the collaborative efforts by the BVI, UN and other development partners to unlock the development finance needed by Eastern Caribbean Overseas Territories and other SIDS for their sustainable development and climate resilience. There is much more work to be done to address this issue if we are to successfully adapt to climate change, achieve the SDGs by 2030, and leave no one behind. The BVI will continue to advocate on behalf of the Associate Members of the UN regional commissions.”

Participants emphasised the high vulnerability of Anguilla, BVI and Montserrat to external shocks such as hurricanes, noting that this vulnerability should be a significant factor for international donors, development partners, international organisations, and development banks when considering eligibility for development finance.

Other funding sources discussed included green finance (such as green and blue bonds), private climate finance, adaptation finance, and blended finance.

At the end of the meeting, participants also pledged to strengthen advocacy efforts at regional and international levels to secure such access.

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Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support

Published

2 days ago

April 19, 2025

Editor

As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.

ARK currently monitors six turtle “hot spots” throughout the Territory but emphasises the importance of extending efforts for effective sea turtle conservation management. Community involvement is vital, and volunteers are encouraged to participate in nightly beach patrols, assisting in the tagging and monitoring of nesting turtles. Such efforts contribute to a better understanding of the local turtle population and inform strategies to protect these ancient mariners.

Historically, the BVI has seen a decline in leatherback nesting. By the late 1990s, the nesting leatherback population had decreased to less than ten per season, a stark contrast to the 1920s when up to six turtles nested per night. However, by 2001, nesting activity had shown signs of increase. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to support this trend.

The BVI government has also taken steps to protect sea turtles. The harvesting of turtle eggs is strictly prohibited, and residents are reminded that such practices are unlawful and detrimental to turtle conservation. Efforts are underway to develop a sea turtle recovery action plan that safeguards turtles and their habitats for future generations.

For more information or to report turtle sightings, please contact the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) through their official website or social media channels.

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Another Section of Threlfalls Collapses, Prompting Safety Concerns

Published

2 days ago

April 18, 2025

Editor

A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.

Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.

“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”

This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.

The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.

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Alcohol Sales Now Permitted After 6 P.M. on Good Friday

Published

2 days ago

April 18, 2025

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have amended earlier Good Friday restrictions, now allowing businesses to open and serve alcohol beginning at 6:00 p.m. this evening, Friday, April 18th.

The initial guidance, which called for full-day closures and a pause on alcohol service out of respect for the religious observance, drew mixed reactions from residents and business owners alike. Officials announced the revision early Friday afternoon, stating the decision reflects a balance between honoring tradition and supporting the city’s vibrant hospitality sector.

Regular business operations are set to resume as normal starting Saturday, April 19.