Brooklyn Street Co-Named To Honor Jamaican Immigrant

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By News Americas Staff Writer

News Americas, BROOKLYN, NY, Sat. Aug. 9, 2025: The corner of Church Avenue and St. Paul’s Place in Brooklyn, NY now bears a new name – Leroy Johnson Way. It is an honor to the life and legacy of the late Jamaican-born activist who became a driving force for housing justice and community empowerment in Flatbush.

Brooklyn has co-named Church Ave & St. Paul’s Place as Leroy Johnson Way, honoring the late Jamaican immigrant and housing rights leader who fought for justice in Flatbush for decades. (Instagram image)

The street co-naming ceremony, led by New York City Council Member Rita Joseph, paid tribute to Johnson’s decades-long commitment to organizing, advocacy, and social change.

“As we unveiled this street sign, we are reminded that true change starts at the grassroots – when we come together, organize, and uplift one another. Let Leroy’s name be a permanent reminder that our power lies in our unity,” said Councilmember Joseph.

Johnson, who passed away on July 6, 2024, was the chair of the New York Communities for Change (NYCC) Flatbush Chapter since 2010. Under his leadership, the chapter grew its membership and took part in dozens of campaigns — from the Fight for $15 to securing Universal Pre-K for New York City children.

A leading figure in New York’s tenant movement, Johnson helped form numerous tenant organizations across Flatbush and played a key role in the 2018 campaign to strengthen rent laws. During the pandemic, he championed the push for the nation’s longest-running eviction moratorium and helped secure more than $2 billion in rental assistance for struggling New Yorkers.

“As President of our Flatbush Chapter, Leroy organized, empowered, and uplifted his neighbors every single day. This street co-naming is a powerful reminder of the legacy he leaves behind — one of service, love, and enduring community power,” said NYCC Executive Director Olivia Leirer.

Beyond activism, Johnson started a monthly pop-up food and essentials pantry in 2020, provided PPE to residents, and launched an annual sleeping bag drive for homeless New Yorkers. His community leadership began in his native St. Mary, Jamaica, where at age 14 he led a youth club for the Social Development Commission.

After immigrating to New York in 1997, Johnson worked as a security guard before opening a store on Flatbush Avenue in 2004. His life’s work — from grassroots organizing to legislative victories — now lives on at the intersection of Church Avenue and St. Paul’s Place, a lasting marker of his impact.

Caribbean Citizenship Programs To Get First-Ever Regional Regulator

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Aug. 8, 2025: The much heralded Caribbean Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program – long a lightning rod for both global scrutiny and investor interest – is about to enter a new era of regional oversight.

In a rare show of unity, five Eastern Caribbean nations – Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and St. Lucia – will jointly enact legislation this September creating the region’s first-ever regulator for these programs.

This move follows nearly two years of high-level diplomacy and tense negotiations with the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, all of which have pressed for tighter controls amid global concerns over illicit finance and security loopholes.

The new watchdog will wield binding authority to set common standards, enforce stricter due diligence (including mandatory biometric collection at applicant interviews), and coordinate closely with CARICOM’s crime and security arm to vet all applicants through a centralised portal.

For the OECS, the shift isn’t just about compliance – it’s about survival. CBI revenues have been critical lifelines for small island economies battered by hurricanes, COVID-19, and global economic shocks, funding everything from infrastructure to climate resilience projects.

Officials say the unified regulator is designed to protect both the economic lifeblood of the islands and the reputations of their passports in the eyes of the world — ensuring the programmes remain viable, secure, and credible for decades to come.

As the OECS Commission put it: “Dismantling these programmes would severely compromise the prospects and prosperity of these countries… This is about safeguarding our future.”

“The key objectives of the regulator are to help enhance the transparency, security and sustainability of these vital Programmes. The regulator will issue binding standards on all CBI/CIP Units (CIUs) and all licensees involved with these programmes,” the OECS Commission said, adding that there is now  the collection of biometrics for all new applicants.

“Biometrics will be collected at the time of the interview, which is part of the application process. This provision is intended to enhance the security of these programmes by further strengthening the vetting process of all applications.”

Jamaican Born Windrush Victim’s 27-Year Exile Ends

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By NAN News Editor

News Americas, LONDON, UK, Fri. Aug. 8, 2025: George Lee, a Jamaican-born British resident exiled for nearly three decades due to Home Office failings, has returned to the UK – closing one of the longest and most harrowing chapters of the Windrush scandal but underscoring the systemic flaws that campaigners say still plague the immigration system.

George Lee, a Windrush scandal victim exiled in Poland for 27 years, has finally returned to the UK. His case exposes ongoing Home Office failures and the urgent need for immigration reform.

Lee, 72, according to The Voice UK, touched down at Birmingham Airport last month, where Bishop Dr. Desmond Jaddoo MBE, Director of the Windrush National Organisation, greeted him with the words: “Welcome home.” Lee’s understated but emotional response: “I’m back.”

Lee arrived in Britain in 1961 at age eight, joining his parents as part of the first generation of Caribbean migrants to rebuild postwar Britain. He grew up in London, working, marrying, and raising a family – until a short-term teaching contract in Poland in 1997 turned into a 27-year exile when the British Embassy in Warsaw refused him re-entry.

Despite nearly four decades of lawful residence, Lee was told he had “no entitlement” to return – a decision that left him stateless, living in deep poverty, and effectively erased from the country he called home. “In Poland, I was a citizen of nowhere,” Lee said. “I want my rights back. I want my dignity back.”

His return comes six years after the Windrush scandal erupted in 2018, revealing how hundreds of Caribbean-born residents were wrongly detained, denied rights, or deported. While the UK government pledged reforms and compensation, critics say Lee’s case shows how policy gaps – and outsourcing consular services to local staff – still fail the most vulnerable.

“This is not just a historic injustice,” Bishop Jaddoo said. “It’s a live one. George’s case is proof that the Home Office and Foreign Office are still passing responsibility between them, leaving victims stranded overseas.”

Lee’s story adds a “new dimension” to the Windrush scandal, Jaddoo said, spotlighting those exiled to third countries—not deported to their birth nations. Lee, for example, spent years facing eviction, living without electricity, and working odd jobs for survival in Poland.

Although the Nationality and Borders Act of 2022 gave the Home Secretary powers to waive residency requirements for people excluded “through no fault of their own,” Lee was instead told to secure a Jamaican passport and apply for a visa—despite his eligibility for the Windrush Scheme.

The Home Office, in a statement to The Voice UK, declined to discuss individual cases but reiterated its commitment to “ensuring victims of the Windrush scandal are heard” and to “speeding up justice” through the appointment of the first Windrush Commissioner, Reverend Clive Foster.

Campaigners argue that Lee’s return must be more than symbolic. “We can’t just bring people home quietly and hope the scandal is forgotten,” Jaddoo said. “There must be systemic change.”

For Lee, stepping back onto British soil was both a personal and political act. “I have a right to be here,” he said. “I was eight when I came to Britain. I helped build this country. I’m not asking for a favor – I’m asking for my life back.”

New Music Friday: Lila Iké & Protoje Drop ‘All Over the World’ Plus Mojo Morgan And More Deliver Fresh Tracks

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By News Americas Staff Writer

NEW YORK, NY, Fri. August 8, 2025: It’s a powerhouse New Music Friday week for Caribbean music fans as some of the region’s most celebrated artists drop brand-new singles and projects – just in time to heat up your playlists.

Lila Iké & Protoje – ‘All Over the World’ (Out Now)

Jamaica’s soulful songbird Lila Iké has teamed up once again with reggae giant Protoje for their latest single, “All Over the World” — a dancehall-infused track radiating chemistry and island cool.

The release marks the fifth and final single from Lila’s highly anticipated album Treasure Self Love, set to arrive August 22 via Ineffable Records, Protoje’s In.Digg.Nation Collective, and Lila’s own Wurl Iké Records.

The MOBO-nominated artist has been making waves internationally with performances on NPR Tiny Desk and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, tours across Japan and Europe, and a recent feature on the cover of Riddim Mag. With global media praise from BBC, Rolling Stone, SPIN, Vogue, and The New York Times, “All Over the World” cements her as one of reggae’s most exciting voices.

Catch it HERE

Mojo Morgan – ‘Dreams’ + EP ‘Jamaica Love’ Coming Aug. 29

Mojo Morgan, GRAMMY winner and founding member of Morgan Heritage, drops his inspirational new single “Dreams”, produced by dancehall hitmaker Droptop. The track blends reggae, rock, and motivational fire, dedicated to “every hustler, survivor, and dreamer who refuses to settle.”

The single paves the way for Mojo’s long-awaited EP Jamaica Love on August 29, featuring collaborations with Gramps Morgan, Popcaan, Sizzla, Maino, Chronic Law, and members of the Morgan family. Mojo calls the project “legacy, healing, and a soundtrack for anyone who’s had to fight for their dream.”

Listen: Mojo Morgan – Dreams

Mr Easy – ‘Rich With Me’ & Soca Vibes

Veteran reggae crooner Mr Easy is turning up the summer heat with “Rich With Me” on Khago’s 2 Time Riddim — a feel-good anthem of unity and island romance that’s catching fire on global party playlists.

He also lit up the stage at “Rhythms of Rita”, a tribute concert for Dr. Rita Marley’s 79th birthday, streamed worldwide via Tuff Gong TV.

On the soca side, Mr Easy’s “Caribbean Ting” (from the Soca Jam EP) bursts with carnival energy, proving his versatility across genres.

Listen: Rich With Me | Caribbean Ting

Intence – Sólo Chicas EP Drops Aug. 8

Dancehall’s young firebrand Intence delivers his latest project Sólo Chicas, a six-track EP dedicated to the ladies, produced entirely by Nuh Brakes Recordz (his father).

From the raw energy of “B.P.P.E.” to the emotional pull of “Missing You”, the EP mixes party starters with heartfelt cuts. Videos for “B.P.P.E.,” “Don’t It,” and “Missing You” drop alongside the release. Listen to Ooh Yea.

Krueshef – ‘WHY’ Pre-Save Now

Emerging artist Krueshef, alongside Island Rock and KMGM Records, teases his uplifting new single “WHY” — a positive, spiritually grounded track that blends reggae energy with inspirational messages. Fans can pre-save now and directly support the artist’s mission to bring more live shows worldwide.

Listen To WHY

Stream these tracks now on all major platforms and let us know which one will be your summer anthem.

These Caribbean Nations Are Set To Lead Regional Growth In 2025

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Aug. 7, 2025: Despite a sluggish global outlook, several Caribbean economies are forecast to outperform their regional peers in 2025, according to new data from the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).

Guyana continues to dominate regional growth projections, with GDP expected to surge by 10.3% in 2025.

ECLAC’s Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean 2025, released Tuesday, projects a modest 2.2% average GDP growth rate for the Latin America and Caribbean region next year. However, a few Caribbean nations are defying the trend, with Guyana, Dominican Republic, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emerging as bright spots amid concerns over slowing tourism demand and global economic headwinds.

Guyana Leads With Double-Digit Growth

Guyana continues to dominate regional growth projections, with GDP expected to surge by 10.3% in 2025, powered by robust investments in the country’s booming hydrocarbons sector. Following a staggering 43.6% expansion in 2024, Guyana’s momentum positions it as the fastest-growing economy in the hemisphere.

Dominican Republic and Saint Vincent Also Outperform

Following Guyana, the Dominican Republic is expected to post a 3.7% growth rate in 2025, driven by strong domestic demand, tourism resilience, and structural reforms.

Meanwhile, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is forecast to grow by 4.0%, placing it among the top five Caribbean performers. The island has benefitted from stable tourism recovery and targeted public investment.

Other Notable Performers

Antigua and Barbuda: 3.5%

Grenada: 3.5%

Suriname: 3.2%

Dominica: 2.5%

Saint Lucia: 2.5%

Barbados: 2.6%

These growth forecasts contrast sharply with larger regional economies like Jamaica (1.3%), Bahamas (1.8%), and Trinidad and Tobago (1.5%), which are projected to remain flat amid global uncertainty.

Tourism and Energy Costs Remain a Drag

The report warns that the overall Caribbean region, excluding Guyana, is expected to grow just 1.8% in 2025, a slowdown from 2.6% in 2024. This is largely due to lower GDP growth in the U.S. – the region’s largest tourism source market – along with persistent challenges like high energy and transport costs, and vulnerability to climate-related disasters.

The Outlier: Haiti and Cuba Face Contraction

Haiti and Cuba remain economic laggards. ECLAC projects Haiti’s GDP will shrink by -2.3% in 2025, following a -4.2% contraction in 2024, citing ongoing political instability and humanitarian crises. Cuba is also expected to contract by –1.5%, reflecting the island’s continued struggle with external financing, sanctions, and weak domestic output.

Looking Ahead

Despite the subdued regional outlook, ECLAC highlights that resource mobilization and policy innovation will be key to unlocking medium-term growth. Caribbean nations that diversify beyond tourism, invest in infrastructure, and harness energy transition opportunities are more likely to weather global volatility.

The report – released at a press conference led by the United Nations regional commission’s Executive Secretary, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs – emphasizes that the estimates point to different dynamics among sub-regions and countries.

Barrington Levy’s ‘Sweet Reggae Music 2.0’ Spins Onto Vinyl This Month

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By ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Aug. 6, 2025: Reggae fans, get ready to drop the needle on something legendary. Barrington Levy’s Sweet Reggae Music 2.0 is finally getting the full vinyl treatment, with a release date set for August 22. The project is now available for pre-order, with advance downloads of select tracks also up for grabs.

Cut loud and proud on 100% black vinyl, this curated collection blends much sought-after sound system anthems with some of Levy’s most beloved dancehall hits—including “Teach the Youth,” “Mini Bus,” and “Mary Long Tongue.” For crate diggers and longtime fans alike, Sweet Reggae Music 2.0 marks the only LP appearance of cult favorites like “Whom Shall I Be Afraid Of,” “Praise His Name,” and “Pon Your Toe.”

This is not just a reissue – it’s a celebration of a golden age in Jamaican music where Barrington Levy reigned as the undisputed lord of the dancehall. His voice, unmistakable in tone and power, helped shape the sonic identity of 1980s and ‘90s reggae and dancehall culture. These songs are the backbone of that legacy.

About the Artist
Barrington Ainsworth Levy is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall icon known for his distinctive vocals and commanding stage presence. Born in Clarendon, Jamaica in 1964, Levy began his musical journey in the late 1970s as one half of the Mighty Multitude – a short-lived duo he formed with his cousin. But it was his solo breakout at just 14 years old with the single “A Long Time Since We Don’t Have No Love” that marked the start of a career destined for greatness.

Over the decades, Levy’s catalog has become essential listening for fans of conscious reggae and raw dancehall alike. Tracks like “Under Mi Sensi,” “Here I Come,” and “Murderer” are timeless staples in DJ sets around the world. Sweet Reggae Music 2.0 continues this legacy, bringing deep cuts and global anthems together for a new generation of vinyl lovers.

Whether you’re a longtime soundman or a new listener discovering Barrington Levy’s magic, this release is one to own.

LISTEN HERE EXCLUSIVELY

U.S. Salutes Jamaica On Independence Day

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By News Americas Staff Writer

News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Aug. 6, 2025: The United States has extended warm congratulations to the people of Jamaica on its, independence day, as the island nation marks its 63rd year of independence, highlighting the enduring bond between the two countries.

FLASHBACK – Mayor Eric Adams, r., and Consul General Alsion Wilson lead a flag-raising ceremony in honor of Jamaica’s independence at Bowling Green, NYC. (Arthur Piccolo image)

In an official statement released today, the US State Department praised Jamaica’s progress and reaffirmed the close relationship shared by the two nations, especially in the areas of security cooperation and economic development.

“On behalf of the United States, I extend my warm congratulations to the people of Jamaica as they celebrate 63 years of independence,” the message reads.

The U.S. emphasized that the partnership with Jamaica is rooted in mutual efforts to disrupt criminal networks, promote investment, and advance regional stability. It also applauded Jamaica’s continued work to reduce violent crime and stimulate private-sector growth.

“These efforts benefit both Americans and Jamaicans and reinforce our shared commitment to prosperity and national sovereignty,” the statement added.

As Jamaica celebrates its Independence Day, the U.S. expressed hope for deepened collaboration in the years ahead, reaffirming its support for the Caribbean ally.

“We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and wish the people of Jamaica a joyful Independence Day,” the statement concluded.

Jamaica gained independence from British rule on August 6, 1962, and continues to be a key strategic partner of the United States in the Caribbean region.

Caribbean Carnival 2025 Takes Over Toronto In A Dazzling Display Of Mas and Music

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News Americas, Toronto, ON, Tues. Aug. 5, 2025: Lakeshore Boulevard exploded with color, rhythm, and Caribbean pride on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, as thousands of revelers danced through the streets in the Grande Parade of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2025.

Formerly known as Caribana, the festival – founded in 1967 – has grown into one of North America’s largest cultural celebrations, drawing millions of spectators and participants from Canada, the Caribbean, and beyond.

This year’s masqueraders, or “mas players,” were decked out in elaborate feathered costumes in every hue of the rainbow, adorned with glittering jewels and cultural symbolism. Many participants traveled from across the U.S. and Caribbean to take part in the high-energy celebration of freedom, culture, and emancipation.

Saturday’s parade marked the highlight of the weeks-long festival, but the celebrations aren’t over yet. On Sunday, Carnival continues with Pan in D’Park, a lively steelpan music showcase at Neilson Park in Scarborough, hosted by the Ontario Steelpan Association.

The festivities also included a Junior Carnival earlier this month, spotlighting young masqueraders and ensuring the next generation keeps the vibrant traditions alive.

Whether you’re reliving the moment or catching up, explore some of the show-stopping costumes and street scenes from Canada’s Caribbean Carnival 2025.

Packed party from one of the over pass bridges to Ontario Place brought a fresh angle to this years Grand Parade! (Photo by R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

Deevanie Jetton in full party mode. Since 1967, North America’s biggest Caribbean Carnival happens in Toronto every year. Masqueraders and steelpan performers. Toronto Caribbean Carnival brings thousands in costume will be parading from Exhibition Place around Lake Shore. (Photo by R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

Paulette Macream stands on one leg and uses the other to keep passers by from walking into her shot of friends. Since 1967, North America’s biggest Caribbean Carnival happens in Toronto every year. Masqueraders and steelpan performers. Toronto Caribbean Carnival brings thousands in costume will be parading from Exhibition Place around Lake Shore. (Photo by R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

A dressed-up girl poses for photos with her float during the Grand Parade of the 2025 Toronto Caribbean Carnival in Toronto, Canada, on Aug. 2, 2025. This annual event was held here on Saturday to showcase Caribbean culture with thousands of masqueraders in costumes. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Members of Carnival Nationz ‘A Jungle Story’ on the judging stage. Since 1967, North America’s biggest Caribbean Carnival happens in Toronto every year. Masqueraders and steelpan performers. Toronto Caribbean Carnival brings thousands in costume will be parading from Exhibition Place around Lake Shore. (Photo by R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

Jaida Ponciano (16) from Tribal Carnival. Since 1967, North America’s biggest Caribbean Carnival happens in Toronto every year. Masqueraders and steelpan performers. Toronto Caribbean Carnival brings thousands in costume will be parading from Exhibition Place around Lake Shore. (Photo by R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

A dressed-up reveler performs with her float during the Grand Parade of the 2025 Toronto Caribbean Carnival in Toronto, Canada, on Aug. 2, 2025. This annual event was held here on Saturday to showcase Caribbean culture with thousands of masqueraders in costumes. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Aisha Maina Secures USD 40 Million St Kitts Port Deal And Takes Trade Roadshow From Grenada To Jamaica And Trinidad

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News Americas, ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Mon. Aug. 4, 2025: Aisha Maina, Managing Director of Aquarian Consult and founder of Gemini Integrated Commodities, has completed an intensive week of engagements, capped by a USD 40 million deal to build a Panamax deep-water port and special economic zone in Basseterre, St. Kitts, that unite policy, private capital and hard infrastructure around a single objective: forging a reliable commercial bridge between Africa and the Caribbean.

At the signing of the USD$ 40m Port deal for St Kitts & Nevis: L-R (Middle): 1. Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, PM, St. Kitts & Nevis, Hon Minister Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture et. Al, St. Kitts and Nevis, Miss Aisha Maina, Managing Director, Aquarian Consult, Mr. Eric Intong, Acting Group Managing Director, Client Relations, Afreximbank and Prof. Benedict Oramah, President, Afreximbank.

The new port will anchor a 10 square kilometre special economic zone designed for agro-processing, light assembly and bonded warehousing. Feasibility studies begin in August, and financial close is targeted for Q1 2026. The facility is expected to create thousands of jobs and attract an additional USD 300 million in private investment. For Saint Kitts & Nevis, a nation of fewer than 60,000 people, the project positions the federation as a logistics hinge between 19 African and 12 Caribbean Commonwealth members. For exporters in West Africa, it removes a costly European detour and delivers end-to-end digital customs visibility.

One Week, Three Strategic Touchpoints

1. Port Signing In Grenada – July 28th
 At the Afreximbank Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum in Grenada, Maina co-signed a USD 40 million Letter of Interest with Afreximbank and the Government of St Kitts & Nevis. Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew witnessed the signing, while Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, signed for the island nation. The agreement finances a Panamax-capable deep-water port in Basseterre and a ten-square-kilometre special economic zone for agro-processing and light assembly.

“Africa and the Caribbean need assets, not just aspirations. With this port we move from promise to throughput, from talk to tonnage. It is the physical backbone of a trade bridge that has been too long in the making,” Maina said on stage.

Duggins added: “Fresh off the Afri-Caribbean Exchange, I proudly signed a landmark Letter of Interest with Afreximbank. Facility after facility, deal after deal, we are not just talking transformation; we are delivering it. The vision is clear, the progress is real, and the future is now.”

2. Caribbean Investment Forum In Jamaica – July 30th
 From Montego Bay’s main stage, Maina confirmed that feasibility and environmental studies for the Basseterre port will begin in August. She outlined a corridor that cuts Lagos-to-Basseterre sailing times to about seven days, eliminating costly European detours.

“If private sector does not take charge of the process, we will remain where we have been. Retreat or defeat are not options,” she told delegates.

3. Trans-Atlantic Symposium In Trinidad – August 3rd
 Maina closed the week in Port of Spain, delivering the keynote “Why Caribbean and Africa Trade and Investment and Economic Cooperation Matter” at the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Symposium organised by the Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago. She connected port logistics, economic-zone clustering and new financing tools to broader goals of youth employment, food security and diversified exports.

Project Snapshot

MetricDetailInitial financeUSD 40 millionBerth capacityOne Panamax berth, expandable to twoConstruction jobs600 direct positionsFollow-on capitalUSD 300 million projected private investmentStudies launchAugust 2025Financial closeQ1 2026First containerQ4 2028

Regional and Global Implications

Shorter transit times – Direct sailings remove European detours and lower freight costs.

Value-addition hub – The special economic zone lets African raw materials be processed closer to North American markets.

Commonwealth relevance – One of the Commonwealth’s smallest states will host a strategic maritime asset linking 19 African and 12 Caribbean members.

Private-capital leadership – Gemini Integrated Commodities co-invests with Afreximbank, placing execution risk on balance-sheet owners rather than policy desks.

Background

Momentum began in March with the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit in Abuja, followed by a June charter of an Air Peace 777 carrying 120 Nigerian entrepreneurs and policymakers to Basseterre. The Grenada signing, Montego Bay confirmation and Trinidad keynote now merge those earlier steps into a single infrastructure roadmap.

About Aquarian Consult

Aquarian Consult is a Nigeria-based advisory and investment firm specialising in trade facilitation, human-capital development and infrastructure. Through Gemini Integrated Commodities, the company designs and executes projects that connect African markets to global value chains, with a focus on Africa-Caribbean integration.

When The Village Births Fire

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By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Aug. 4, 2025: There are moments in the life of a nation when it does not simply honor its artists but enshrines them. Antigua and Barbuda has now done exactly that.

In honor of 40 years of renowned Soca band Burning Flames, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has officially renamed Potters Main Road to The Burning Flames Highway. It is said that all four members of the band will be given a national award along with diplomatic passports.

With the stroke of a Cabinet decision, Potters Main Road has been renamed The Burning Flames Highway. It is no longer just a path of passage; it is now a living monument to a sound that carried a people, a rhythm that redefined identity, and a fire that refused to die.

I was raised in Potters Village, where music was more than background noise. It was our pulse, our poetry, our prayer. The sound of soca and calypso floated across fences, spilled through wooden windows, and made even the stillest moments feel alive. Among us were four local sons whose talent would one day shake the Caribbean and echo across oceans. They were called Burning Flames.

I must confess, with reverent honesty, that my own spiritual convictions have often placed me at odds with certain expressions of Carnival. Some aspects have stirred tensions between sacred values and cultural expression. Yet even within that conflict, I could never ignore the creative brilliance, the sonic mastery, and the deep cultural meaning embedded in the music of Burning Flames.

What they offered was more than entertainment. It was a liberation movement disguised as melody. It was celebration steeped in struggle. It was joy seasoned with survival.

From Workey Workey to Stiley Tight, from Island Girl to Swinging Engine and Janet, their music lit fires in the soul. They transformed porches into dance floors and village squares into arenas of expression. Their sound became the soundtrack of emancipation, where movement and meaning collided in perfect rhythm.

The official recognition they have now received is more than deserved. It is redemptive. Diplomatic passports, national honors, and the naming of a national road are not merely symbolic acts. They are affirmations of cultural dignity. They are acknowledgments that rhythm can be a form of resistance and that melody can memorialize memory.

This is both a triumph for Burning Flames and a victory for the village. It is evidence that greatness can rise from humble soil and that the ordinary can give birth to the extraordinary. It is a reminder that Potters Village did not simply nurture musicians. It raised architects of national joy.

To the sons of sound who carried our hopes in every note and turned rhythm into revolution, I offer not only congratulations but profound gratitude.

Your music made us dance with purpose
Your legacy makes us proud with reason
And your fire still burns across the landscape of our hearts

Long live the music
Long live the memory
Long live the Flames

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a global strategist, thought leader, and theologian of transformation. A native of Potters Village, he has studied at Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia University. As a professor, policy analyst, and advisor to leaders across continents, Dr. Newton brings together spiritual wisdom and intellectual brilliance to inspire meaningful change and honor the deep roots of cultural legacy.