Local News
Virgin Islands Launches National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
The Virgin Islands National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was officially launched on February 11 at Maria’s by the Sea in Road Town, Tortola. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, marks a significant step in preserving the territory’s ecosystems amid increasing environmental threats.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, stressed the urgency of the project, stating, “Our environment is our identity, our lifeline, our greatest asset, and it is our duty to protect it for generations to come.” He outlined the challenges facing the Virgin Islands, including climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, highlighting the impact of sand mining on Anegada, which is leading to coastal erosion and habitat loss.
The Virgin Islands Rock Iguana, an endangered species found nowhere else on Earth, was identified as one of the critical species under threat. “If we continue on this path, we will lose more than just our natural beauty. We will lose the resources that sustain our people,” Dr. Smith-Berkeley warned.
The NBSAP aims to integrate biodiversity conservation into national planning, ensuring sustainable development while protecting the territory’s natural resources. The strategy aligns with the United Kingdom’s Biodiversity Strategy, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Smith-Berkeley acknowledged the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) for its role in regional environmental sustainability efforts. He also expressed gratitude to PC Consultants Ltd. of Guyana, Dr. Shannon Gore of Coastal Management Systems, and the European Union’s BioSPACE Project for their contributions to the initiative.
Calling on the community to play an active role, Dr. Smith-Berkeley stated, “Conservation is not the responsibility of a single ministry or a handful of experts. It is a collective effort. It is a call to action for every one of us to protect what we have before it is too late.”
The NBSAP is expected to guide policies and actions that will ensure the Virgin Islands’ environment remains resilient and productive for future generations.
Premier of the Virgin Islands, Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Charles Washington Misick following his victory in the recent general elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In a letter sent on Monday, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the strong mandate given to the Turks and Caicos leader by the people, describing it as a clear endorsement of his leadership. “The overwhelming support given to you by the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands is a testament to the confidence and trust placed in your leadership,” Wheatley wrote.
As Premier Misick begins his new term, Hon. Wheatley offered his best wishes for the successful implementation of national initiatives. “I wish you and your team a successful term in office as you work tirelessly to secure the political, social, and economic development of the Turks and Caicos Islands for the citizens,” he stated.
The BVI Premier, who currently serves as President of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA), also expressed appreciation for Hon. Misick’s support in securing that position. “Please allow me to also take this opportunity to thank you for your support in my bid for the Presidency of UKOTA and express collective congratulations on your win on behalf of all the Overseas Territories,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of regional cooperation, Hon. Wheatley reiterated his commitment to strengthening ties between the Virgin Islands and the Turks and Caicos Islands. “I look forward to your continued collaboration and support as we continue to work together as Overseas Territories leaders for the betterment of our people and to strengthen the ties between our respective Territories,” he added.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains focused on fostering strong partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands and other Overseas Territories to advance shared interests and address the unique needs of their communities.
Henry Prince has been appointed District Officer for Virgin Gorda, effective February 3. In this role, he will coordinate government activities on the island, oversee the management of the Government Administration Building, and serve as the primary point of contact for official inquiries.
Prince brings over two decades of leadership and managerial experience, having previously served as Director of Facilities at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and Operations Manager at the Bitter End Yacht Club. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, a Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Leadership from the Chartered Management Institute, and a Graduate Certificate in University Teaching and Leadership.
Prince expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve the Virgin Gorda community, stating, “The role represents the Public Service’s commitment to maintaining a standard of excellence across the Virgin Islands, and I am delighted at the opportunity to contribute to this progress. I look forward to working and engaging with colleagues and the community in this capacity.”
As District Officer, he will collaborate with Sister Islands Programme Coordinator Monel Nickie, as well as District Officers Carmen Blyden of Jost Van Dyke and Shirley Vanterpool Evans of Anegada.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE, welcomed Prince’s appointment, emphasizing the significance of the District Officer role in ensuring government services are effectively delivered to Sister Islands residents. “Mr. Prince is a valuable addition to the Sister Islands Programme Unit, and I am confident that his skills and experience will allow him to succeed in this role,” she said.
The Government of the Virgin Islands continues its commitment to the effective administration of the Sister Islands through the Sister Islands Programme Unit.
Shania Sampson, a 20-year-old entrepreneur from Kwakwani, Guyana, and owner of Triple S Creations, will represent Guyana at the Caribbean Baking Awards on February 21.
She will lead Team “Sweet Secrets” in the competition at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
Sampson is known for her work in custom cakes, pastries, and confections through Triple S Creations. Her business has received nominations for Best Wedding Cake and Best Buttercream Cake in Guyana at the Caribbean Baking Awards.
The Caribbean Baking Awards will feature over 60 nominees from across the region, focusing on technique, creativity, and the use of authentic Caribbean ingredients. Competitors will present their skills in various categories judged by a panel of culinary professionals.
Premier Wheatley Congratulates Turks and Caicos Leader on Election Victory
Henry Prince Appointed District Officer for Virgin Gorda
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