U.S., Kenya Push For Stronger UN-Backed Gang Suppression Force In Haiti As Two Ex-Officials Sanctioned

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By News Americas Staff

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Sept. 22, 2025: The United States and Kenya are intensifying calls for global action on Haiti’s security crisis, urging the United Nations to approve a new Gang Suppression Force, (GSF) and support office before the current Multinational Security Support (MSS), mandate expires on October 2, 2025.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Kenyan President William Ruto led a high-level meeting on Haiti during the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week today, rallying more than 30 nations to back a proposed UN resolution that would dramatically scale up international security operations.

People attend funeral ceremony of four Haitian police officers, two of them killed by armed gangs in Kenscoff, and the two SWAT officers by a drone kamikaze explodes on the SWAT base in Kenscoff, at the National Police Academy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on September 06, 2025. (Photo by Guerinault Louis/Anadolu via Getty Images)

If adopted, the resolution would establish a UN Support Office for Haiti, (UNSOH) and authorize a GSF with more than 5,500 personnel — five times the size of the current MSS mission. The force would operate under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, empowering it to target gang networks, secure key infrastructure, and restore territorial control to the Haitian state.

“This is Haiti’s hour of need,” Landau said, warning that gangs continue to terrorize Port-au-Prince, extort communities, and recruit children. He stressed that while Haiti must ultimately lead its own recovery, the international community cannot allow the mission to run out of time or resources.

“Our proposed resolution would address Haiti’s immediate security challenges, but we must also not ignore the long-term recovery of Haiti,” he added. “The era of impunity is over for individuals promoting violence and undermining the country’s stability and governance. The United States has already taken decisive action to support restoring democratic governance, but we are not done. We welcome others to join these efforts.”

Sanctions on Former Haitian Officials

In a parallel move aimed at ending impunity, the U.S. State Department announced public designations against two former Haitian lawmakers – Arnel Belizaire, a former member of the Haitian Chamber of Deputies, and Antonio Chéramy, a former senator.

Both men, according to the Department of State, abused their positions by interfering with public processes, further destabilizing Haiti’s fragile democratic institutions. The designations bar them and their immediate family members from entering the United States.

Washington said these steps are part of a wider effort to hold corrupt actors accountable while supporting Haiti’s path back to elected governance.

Regional & Global Support Building

All 32 member states of the Organization of American States (OAS) have signed a joint statement backing the call for the GSF and UNSOH. The United States and Panama introduced the Security Council resolution, which still faces potential opposition from some members but enjoys what Landau described as “overwhelming support.”

Kenya, which has led the MSS mission since its launch, has been praised for its contributions and sacrifices, including the loss of three Kenyan personnel in Haiti.

Urgency For Action

Security experts warn that without immediate reinforcement, Haiti risks further descent into lawlessness that could destabilize the wider Caribbean region.

“The time for action is now,” Landau told delegates. “The people of Haiti cannot wait.”

The U.S. is also calling on other UN member states to step up funding and resources, saying Washington cannot shoulder the financial burden alone. Between April 1 and June 30, 2025, at least 1,520 people were killed and 609 injured in armed violence, primarily in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, followed by Artibonite and Centre. In addition, there were at least 185 kidnappings and 628 victims of sexual violence, UN data days. So far this year, some 50 cops have been murdered.

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Guyana Greenlights Seventh Offshore Oil Project

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Mon. Sept. 22, 2025: Guyana has taken another decisive step in its transformation into a global energy player, approving the Hammerhead Field Development Plan (FDP) and granting the much-anticipated Hammerhead Petroleum Production Licence, (PPL).

Hammerhead becomes the seventh sanctioned offshore project in the Stabroek Block, which is operated by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited alongside partners Hess Corporation and CNOOC. Discovered in 2018, the Hammerhead reservoir sits in the block’s southwestern quadrant and is now cleared for a massive US$6.8 billion development.

Raising the Bar on Standards

The Ministry of Natural Resources emphasized that the Hammerhead licence features enhanced safeguards, including full alignment with the new Oil Pollution Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Responsibility Act 2025. The licence also strengthens oversight on production levels, introduces stricter conditions on off-specification fluid discharges, and commits to transferring associated gas to Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy pipeline network.

Officials say these measures reflect the government’s commitment to responsible resource development while ensuring that energy growth also benefits the local economy and supports sustainability goals.

Big Numbers, Big Impact

Hammerhead will produce through a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) conversion-type Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel built by Japanese firm MODEC. The project is expected to deliver 445 million barrels of oil over its lifetime, with a peak capacity of 150,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd). First oil is anticipated by 2029, which would push Guyana’s total production capacity to roughly 1.5 million bopd by mid-2029, cementing its position among the world’s fastest-growing oil producers.

Beyond output, the project is projected to boost energy security, create new jobs, and drive industrial growth as part of Guyana’s long-term national development strategy.

ExxonMobil Commits

ExxonMobil confirmed it had reached its final investment decision following regulatory approval. “We continue to set a new standard in Guyana, advancing an impressive seventh project just 10 years after first discovery,” said Dan Ammann, President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company. “Together with the government and people of Guyana, we are building a thriving oil-and-gas industry that is creating jobs, supplier opportunities, profits, and follow-on investments.”

The oil major highlighted that its total commitment for Guyana’s seven approved projects now exceeds US$60 billion. More than US$7.8 billion has already flowed into Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund since production began in 2019, and ExxonMobil reports that about 70 percent of the Stabroek block workforce — roughly 6,200 people — are Guyanese.

Future Growth

ExxonMobil is currently producing about 650,000 bopd from the block. With the recent startup of its fourth FPSO, ONE GUYANA, production is on track to exceed 900,000 bopd by year’s end. Construction continues on the fifth and sixth projects — Uaru and Whiptail — with first oil expected in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

Hammerhead’s approval signals that Guyana’s oil boom is far from over — and that the small South American, CARICOM nation is firmly on its way to becoming a heavyweight in the global energy market.

Exciting New Hotels Are Powering A Caribbean Tourism and Investment Boom

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sun. Sept. 21, 2025: From Guyana to Exuma, Antigua to Punta Cana, a new wave of new hotels are redefining the Caribbean’s hospitality sector — and investors are taking notice. Backed by both local entrepreneurs and global brands, these projects highlight the region’s resilience, increasing demand for premium travel, and strategic efforts to diversify beyond traditional tourism models.

Guyana: Courtyard by Marriott Opens First Airport Hotel

Guyana’s growing profile as an investment hub received a significant boost in late August with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott, the nation’s first international airport hotel. Located just steps from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, (CJIA), the six-story, US$20 million property features 150 rooms — including five executive suites — and offers employment to approximately 100 Guyanese.

President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who commissioned the property, described it as a symbol of confidence in the country’s future. “Tourism must become one of the strong, sustainable pillars that balance our development and secure our future,” the president stated. His government is positioning tourism as a major economic pillar alongside oil and gas, backed by targeted infrastructure investments.

The hotel was built by local firm Cardinal Investments Inc., with 99% Guyanese staff. Its opening aligns with Guyana’s broader strategy to host international events, expand airport capacity, and attract a new class of transit and business travelers.

Bahamas: Rosewood Exuma Breaks Ground on Private Island Retreat

In the Bahamas, Miami-based developer Yntegra Group broke ground on Rosewood Exuma, a high-end wellness-focused resort on East Sampson Cay. Slated for a 2028 opening, the development will feature 33 beachfront bungalows, two marinas, a 20,000-square-foot wellness center, and several restaurants.

Half of the 124-acre site will remain untouched to preserve its natural beauty. The project is expected to generate 533 full-time jobs annually and contribute $1.6 billion in long-term economic impact. The development also includes a nursery to grow 14,000 native trees and aims for LEED® and FitWel® certifications.

Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper lauded the project’s commitment to environmental balance and community upliftment. Developer Felipe MacLean emphasized dual priorities: empowering locals and setting a global standard for sustainable luxury.

Dominican Republic: Hyatt Expands With Secrets Macao Beach

Hyatt Hotels is doubling down on the Dominican Republic with the announcement of Secrets Macao Beach Punta Cana, a 406-room, adults-only, all-inclusive resort opening in 2026. The development expands Hyatt’s “Inclusive Collection” and includes nine restaurants, three pools, Preferred Club services, and access to the neighboring Dreams Macao Beach resort.

The property, being developed with GSM Investissements Dominicana S.R.L., reflects Hyatt’s Caribbean strategy — targeting high-end travelers seeking exclusive, beachfront experiences. The company currently operates 50+ properties in the region with plans for further expansion.

U.S. Virgin Islands: Hilton Debuts Hampton by Hilton St. Thomas

In a major brand debut, Hilton has opened its first Hampton by Hilton in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The 126-room hotel, located across from Havensight Mall and overlooking Long Bay in St. Thomas, is designed for both business and leisure travelers.

Developed by Haven Development and managed by Hotel Equities, the property includes a full-service bar, 2,000-square-foot pool deck, and modern interiors in shades of Caribbean blue. The project reflects a commitment to local philanthropy and education, with donations pledged to the Virgin Islands Department of Education and charitable organizations.

Antigua: Hammock Cove Adds Signature Villas & Cultural Programming

Hammock Cove Antigua, part of Elite Island Resorts, recently launched its Signature Villas—larger, more luxurious accommodations featuring oversized plunge pools, wet bars, and spacious living areas. The announcement is paired with new cultural programming, including a Scotch & Cognac Club, cigar socials, and artist exhibitions.

Resort General Manager Adrian Pickard noted the upgrades reflect a drive to “raise the standard of luxury in Antigua,” blending curated experiences with high-touch service in a boutique atmosphere.

A Boom With Staying Power

This new wave of Caribbean hotel development is more than a construction trend — it’s a reflection of shifting travel patterns, growing investor confidence in investing in the Caribbean, and increasing demand for regional, culturally aligned experiences. Whether through job creation, environmental stewardship, or product innovation, these properties are reshaping the region’s global brand — one hotel at a time.

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