Herman Sargeant - ZJB Radio

An Expected Fillip For Montserrat Access Situation As SVG Air Twin Otter To Resume Service

SVG Air’s Twin Otter aircraft will resume service to Montserrat at the end of this month. This announcement from founder and CEO of SVG Air, Paul Gravel. Speaking on the “What’s on Your Mind” radio Programme Tuesday morning, Mr Gravel explained the challenges faced which affected their service to Montserrat. He said a main challenge was a delay in corrosion repair on the Twin otter Aircraft. “Well, the Twin Otter, that is going to be back at the end of this month, it has had some major delays because we had to remove the wing and repair corrosion internally. And to do that, you have to remove 4,000 rivets, take the wing apart, replace a lot of the longer arms and spars in the wing. Gravel says a shortage of rivets has compounded the problem. “The company that makes the rivets burnt to the ground in February of 2025. So there’s a worldwide rivet shortage. And the manufacturer of the wing is flying all over the world, repairing wings for the same problems we have, which is corrosion because the Twin Otters primarily used in saltwater conditions….. he’s very busy and he’s the only one that can do the final repair on the aircraft. So we’ve been waiting for him for two months. So it’s, it’s been very challenging. It’s been a very expensive exercise. We’ve, we’re about a million dollars into it so far. By the end of this month, it should be parked in Antigua to start back our service to Montserrat.” Mr Gravel also notes SVG Air’s current lack of Islander pilots. He said pilots are currently being trained, but explains that challenges are being encountered in the licensing process.

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New Internship Opportunity For Youth On Montserrat.

News

The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Center (UWI SRC) has opened application for the Creating Opportunities Through Research and Experience (C.O.R.E.) internship programme. This 8-week summer programme is aimed at university level students and recent graduates in the physical and earth sciences as well as the computer science disciplines who are interested in pursuing geoscience careers. C.O.R.E. provides Caribbean-born students with meaningful experience within the earth sciences. Persons can apply to complete a research project under the guidance of a UWI-SRC scientist during the June/July break. This year, two research projects will be conducted: “The Trinidad & Tobago Microzonation Project (the GIS component)”, and the “Artwork Creation for the Hans Stecher Rock and Mineral Museum and UWI-SRC Social Media Pages.” Successful candidates will gain valuable hands-on experience and an in-depth understanding of how the SRC attains its objectives. For more information and to apply, persons can visit the UWI Seismic Research Centre social media pages. Persons can also contact Mr. Antonio Modeste at 868-662-4659 ext 407 or antonio.modeste@uwi.edu for more information.

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St Luke Le Blanc Attends High-level Talks On Climate-resilient Development in Vienna.

Environment, News

Former junior Premier of the Montserrat National Youth Parliament St Luke Le Blanc will engage in high-level discussions on climate-resilient development in Vienna later this week. Le Blanc was selected by the Government of Austria to attended The International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) focal point for small and developing island. The Forum, which runs from April 9th through to the 10th brings together global leaders from governments, international organizations, industry, academia, development partners and civil society, under the theme “Powering Prosperity, Security and Stability”. Through 12 high-level sessions, the forum aims to shape global policy and demonstrate how sustainable energy, just climate action and green industrialization can drive shared prosperity, security and stability. The sessions will also have a strong focus on action and implementation. Le blanc will join Austria’s Federal Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection et al H.E. Norbert Totschnig, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Gedion Timothewos Hessebon, the Minister of Innovation, Industry, Science and Technology in Barbados H.E. Jonathan Reid, and the UNEP Executive Secretary Megumi Seki on a panel discussing the topic “Securing the Green Transformation: Resilient Technologies and Infrastructure”. The panel discussion is set for April 10th.

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Montserrat Strengthens Links with Northern Ireland During St Patrick’s Week Visit

Diaspora, News

The Government of Montserrat, through its UK Office, has strengthened relationships with political, civic and academic stakeholders in Northern Ireland during a series of engagements held in Belfast on 18–19 March, as part of St Patrick’s Day commemorations. The visit, facilitated by Friends of the British Overseas Territories, provided an opportunity to highlight Montserrat’s unique historic and cultural connection to Ireland, as well as to promote the island’s development priorities and explore opportunities for collaboration. The Montserrat Government UK Office extends its sincere thanks to the Friends of the British Overseas Territories for their support in facilitating the visit and programme of engagements. During the visit, Montserrat’s Representative to the United Kingdom, Kei-Retta Farrell, engaged with members of the Northern Ireland Assembly at Parliament Buildings, including a meeting with Dr Steve Aiken OBE MLA, Deputy Speaker, and members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Northern Ireland Branch. Discussions focused on governance, parliamentary cooperation and shared challenges facing smaller jurisdictions. Discussions with Dr Aiken also highlighted Montserrat’s cultural and scientific contributions on the global stage, including the legacy of Air Studios Montserrat, which attracted internationally renowned artists, and the strategic importance of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory as a centre for world leading research supporting disaster preparedness and long term resilience. Ms Farrell also met with representatives from the Northern Ireland Assembly and Belfast City Council, reflecting the importance of engaging with political and civic stakeholders across Northern Ireland. A meeting with The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, formed a key part of the programme, with discussions centred on cultural exchange, tourism and opportunities to strengthen links between Belfast and Montserrat, alongside the city’s evolution as a hub for foreign direct investment and innovation. As part of the programme, Ms Farrell delivered a St Patrick’s Day lecture at the esteemed Queen’s University Belfast, a member of the Russell Group of leading UK research universities, renowned for its excellence in research, particularly in areas such as earth sciences, engineering and public policy. The lecture reflected on the historical and cultural connections between Montserrat and Ireland, including the island’s unique observance of St Patrick’s Day, which commemorates the 1768 slave uprising on Montserrat and reflects Montserrat’s connection to the island of Ireland. Speaking following the visit, Ms Farrell said: “Montserrat’s connection with Island of Ireland is a powerful reminder of how history links communities across the Atlantic. This visit has been an important opportunity to deepen those connections, while also building new relationships that support Montserrat’s future development.” “Montserrat is focused on building a resilient and sustainable economy, from renewable energy to cultural tourism and scientific research. Partnerships across the UK, including in Northern Ireland, are an important part of that journey.” Montserrat continues to strengthen its engagement across the United Kingdom, building partnerships that support economic development, cultural exchange and long term sustainability.

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Productive Meeting With St. Patrick’s Festival Stakeholders

Government, News

The Office of the Premier held a productive meeting with key stakeholders involved in the planning and execution of Montserrat’s premier cultural event—the St. Patrick’s Festival. The meeting was convened by Parliamentary Secretary Honourable Crenston C. Buffonge, who has responsibility for Culture and Tourism. It brought together several local event promoters, alongside senior representatives including Chairman of the Montserrat Arts Council (MAC), Austin Howe, and Press Secretary Jenzil Skerritt. Discussions centered on reviewing the 2026 St. Patrick’s Festival, highlighting both successes and opportunities for growth. Stakeholders commended the level of collaboration between promoters, government agencies, and community partners, which contributed to a vibrant and engaging festival calendar that attracted both residents and visitors. Key points emerging from the meeting included enhanced Collaboration between promoters and government officials to ensure seamless event delivery, and cultural preservation, the festival continues to play a critical role in preserving Montserrat’s rich heritage while expanding its appeal as a unique cultural tourism product. Stakeholders acknowledged the positive economic contributions generated through increased visitor arrivals, local business engagement, and entertainment activities, and identified areas for improvement include marketing reach, logistics coordination, and infrastructure support to further elevate the festival experience. Parliamentary Secretary Buffonge emphasized the Government’s continued support for the festival, noting that “the St. Patrick’s Festival remains a cornerstone of Montserrat’s cultural identity and tourism strategy.” The Office of the Premier says it recognizes the dedication and creativity of all event promoters and partners who contributed to the success of the 2026 festival and looks forward to building on this momentum in the years ahead.

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WINAIR Flights To Continue

Diaspora, News

The Access Division here, has provided an update on travel with Winair. In a statement on Friday, the Division said flights between St. Maarten and Montserrat will continue operating through April and May. According to the release, the service remains in place, however regulatory challenges are currently hampering passengers’ ability to make reservations far in advance. The update follows public concern over the closure of advance bookings with the airline. The Division says it is actively working to resolve the matter and restore full booking access as soon as possible. Passengers are encouraged to monitor updates, as advance booking is expected to reopen shortly.

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Produced in Montserrat Expo (PRIME) Returns in 2026 with Inaugural Montserrat Business Awards

Community, News

Brades, Montserrat – 27th March, 2026 — The Government of Montserrat, through the Business, Trade and Investment (BTI) Unit within the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, is proud to announce the return of the Produced in Montserrat Expo (PRIME) 2026 as a featured event of the island’s vibrant Calabash Festival, taking place this year on July 24–26, 2026, under the theme “Celebrating Entrepreneurship, Building Resilience.” This year aims to deliver a dynamic and elevated experience for participants and patrons alike. Now in its sixth year, PRIME continues to serve as Montserrat’s premier platform for showcasing local products, services, and entrepreneurial talent. The annual trade expo highlights the innovation, creativity, and resilience of Montserrat’s business community, while providing opportunities for networking, growth, and market expansion. Expanded Three-Day Event Format This year, the expo will take on an expanded and dynamic three-day format, offering an enhanced experience for both participants and patrons. Activities will begin on Friday evening with a lively “After-Work Lyme,” creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere for networking, entertainment, and early vendor engagement. The excitement will continue on Saturday with the main expo day, featuring a wide array of local businesses, interactive displays, and opportunities for sales and exposure. Ending the weekend on Sunday is the inaugural Montserrat Business Awards 2026 gala. A First for Montserrat: The Business Awards Gala A major highlight of PRIME 2026 will be the introduction of the inaugural Montserrat Business Awards, which will take place on Sunday, July 26th, in the form of an elegant black-tie gala. This marks a significant milestone for the expo, as the awards aim to formally recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of businesses and entrepreneurs across the island. The initiative has been designed not only to honor excellence, but also to inspire continued growth, innovation, and resilience within Montserrat’s business sector. The Montserrat Business Awards will feature twelve (12) categories, each reflecting key areas of achievement and impact within the local business landscape. These include ● Business of the Year ● Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year ● Export Excellence Award ● Innovation and Product Development Award ● Community Impact Award ● Youth Entrepreneur of the Year ● Best Brand and Market Presentation Award ● Customer Service Excellence Award ● Green Business Award ● Spirit of Montserrat Award ● Made in Montserrat Award ● PRIME Exhibitor of the Year Members of the public will play a vital role in the process, as they will be invited to nominate businesses and individuals they believe deserve recognition. Nominations will officially open on April 1st, 2026, and further details, including the nomination link, will be made available via PRIME’s official social media platforms. The public is encouraged to stay connected for updates and participation opportunities. Regional Buyer Programme Targets Antigua and Sint Maarten In a strategic move to strengthen regional trade, PRIME 2026 will introduce a Regional Buyer Programme, inviting commercial buyers from Antigua and Barbuda and Sint Maarten. Structured matchmaking sessions will connect local producers with regional distributors, retailers, and hospitality buyers, creating opportunities for export growth and long-term partnerships. Youth Innovation Competition Returns Building on the successful launch of the Youth Innovation Competition at PRIME 2025, where three youth groups showcased market-ready product concepts, the competition will return in 2026 with enhanced mentorship, clearer category criteria, and a formal prize package including seed funding and the opportunity to exhibit at PRIME 2027. The competition is open to youth groups and individual young entrepreneurs between the ages of 15 and 30. The Youth Entrepreneur of the Year award at the Sunday evening Gala provides an additional pathway for young business leaders to receive formal recognition alongside the island’s established enterprises. Building on Five Years of Growth The PRIME Planning Committee is extending an invitation to corporate partners and stakeholders to support this landmark initiative through sponsorship. Businesses and organisations will have the opportunity to sponsor individual award categories, gaining naming rights and prominent brand visibility, while contributing meaningfully to the development and recognition of Montserrat’s business community. The introduction of the Montserrat Business Awards represents an exciting evolution of PRIME, reinforcing its commitment to celebrating entrepreneurship and building resilience across the island. As anticipation builds for this year’s staging, organisers are confident that PRIME 2026 will deliver a memorable and impactful experience for all involved. Get Involved Businesses interested in exhibiting are encouraged to register early. Nominations for the Business Awards will go live on Wednesday 1st April, 2026 and additional event details will be announced via official channels. Corporate partners and stakeholders are also invited to support this landmark initiative through sponsorship opportunities, including category sponsorships with naming rights and prominent brand visibility. For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, vendor registration, or gala ticket information, please contact: Business, Trade and Investment Unit Office of the Cabinet Secretary Government of Montserrat +1 664 491 2066 Follow PRIME on Facebook @ProducedInMontserratExpo and Instagram @Prime_mni for updates.

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OFFICIAL VISIT OF DR. NWACHUKWU ANAKWENZE, M.D., MPH, REGENT OF ABAGANA KINDOM

News

The Office of the Premier is pleased to host the official visit of Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, M.D., MPH, Regent of the Abagana Kingdom in Anambra State, Federal Republic of Nigeria, scheduled to take place in Montserrat from March 15–18, 2026. Dr. Anakwenze was appointed Regent following the passing of the previous traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Igwe Patrick Mbamalu Okeke. He formally received his Regent Certificate from the Government of Anambra State through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs. Prior to his appointment as Regent, Dr. Anakwenze, an American-based medical practitioner and businessman, served as the Onowu (Traditional Prime Minister) of Abagana Kingdom, a distinguished leadership role within the traditional governance structure. In his capacity as Regent, Dr. Anakwenze has championed community advancement initiatives including, medical outreach programmes, and other developmental efforts aimed at strengthening social cohesion and public health within Abagana. Dr. Anakwenze has also served in numerous leadership roles promoting African and diaspora interests. He is the Founding Chairman of the Igbo World Assembly, the umbrella body representing Ndi Igbo across more than 20 countries worldwide. His tour of Montserrat and other Eastern Caribbean territories forms part of this outreach entitled the Global Igbo Reconnection Initiative. The visit seeks to deepen structured and sustainable partnerships between the Igbo homeland in Southeast Nigeria, Igbo diaspora communities, and Caribbean societies with shared historical and cultural ties. Purpose of the Visit During his official visit to Montserrat, Regent Dr. Anakwenze and his delegation are expected to: • Pay courtesy calls on Senior Officials of the Government of Montserrat; • Engage with members of the Nigerian community resident in Montserrat; • Conduct a sacred ceremony honoring the memory of Igbo ancestors who were enslaved on the island and unveil a plaque to Igbo Abolitionist, Writer Olaudah Equiano who bought his freedom on Montserrat in 1766; and • Participate in select events associated with the island’s annual St. Patrick’s Festival. Cultural and Development Partnerships The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) is the central institutional partner in the Igbo Reconnection Initiative. Through the leadership of Professor Chris Agbedo and its high-level Committee on the Igbo Cultural Village Project and Igbo Landing Monument Initiative, and the proposed Igbo–Gullah–Caribbean Cultural Heritage Institute (IGCCHI), are developing a formal framework to institutionalise academic, cultural, economic, and diplomatic linkages between: • The Igbo homeland in Southeast Nigeria; • Igbo diaspora communities; • The Gullah-Geechee communities of the United States; and • Caribbean territories with Igbo heritage connections, including Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, and Barbados. The strategic partner organizing and curating Igbo reconnection in Montserrat is Museum Without Walls Alliouagana a history and heritage entity led by Dr Clarice Barnes. Strategic Benefits for the Eastern Caribbean The Governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Barbados, and other Eastern Caribbean territories stand to gain tangible and long-term benefits through partnership with the University of Nigeria UNN as the institutional anchor of the Igbo Atlantic reconnection agenda. These benefits include: • Strengthened historical documentation and authentication of Igbo ancestry and heritage sites; • Enhanced museum, archival, and curriculum development supported by scholarly research; • Expanded cultural tourism opportunities rooted in verified African heritage connections; • Increased academic exchanges and research collaboration; and • Broader diplomatic and economic engagement between West Africa and the Caribbean. By grounding reconnection efforts in credible academic research and structured institutional collaboration, the initiative advances heritage preservation while opening new pathways for cultural diplomacy, education, and sustainable development. The Office of the Premier welcomes Regent Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze and his delegation to Montserrat and looks forward to meaningful engagements that further strengthen the bonds between Africa and the Caribbean.

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Ministry of Health and Social Services Commissions Independent Health Inspection

Government, Health, News

The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) will welcome its first independent health services inspection at the Glendon Hospital which will focus on an assessment framework similar to that used by UK Health Regulators’ during the period February 16-20, 2026. The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) is committed to building a robust health system through which good quality, cost effective and evidence-based health services are provided. To achieve this, it is essential for periodic external inspections to be undertaken. The Glendon hospital has undergone previous assessments regarding provision of services in the past however none have focused on this type of assessment framework. The MoHSS therefore regards this inspection as a critical aspect of continued service improvement. UK Ambassador for Healthcare to the Overseas Territories, Professor Ian Cumming OBE will lead the Health Inspection team visit to Montserrat. As this is a first inspection, the entire health service will not be inspected. This is likely to require too broad a range of experts and a longer period of time than is available. It has therefore been decided that the Glendon Hospital will be the focus, looking specifically at areas where the most critical care is provided: emergency care (including ambulance and Casualty), ward-based care, theatres and the process for medical treatment overseas. In addition to the above-mentioned service areas of focus, the inspection team will also review the quality of care provided by our team of doctors across all service areas at the Glendon Hospital. The inspection team will apply the five guiding principles as adopted by the CQC to the agreed assessment framework—is the facility safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Feedback from members of the public also forms an important part of the health inspection. To facilitate this, the Inspection Team will make themselves available to speak to members of the public at a Public meeting at the Brades Arts and Education Centre on Wednesday 18th February, 2026 starting at 6:00p.m. This meeting will be held based on confirmation of interest from members of public. Therefore, persons interested in meeting with the Inspectors on this date are asked to contact the Ministry at 491-2880/491-4520 or email mehcsmail@gov.ms by 12pm on the 17th February 2026. Members of the Public who wish to submit feedback in relation to the services provided will be able to do so, by e-mail to the Inspection Co-ordinator, Professor Heidi Fuller on h.r.fuller@keele.ac.uk with a closing date of 20th February, 2026. Please note that the Inspectors are not able to look into specific individual episodes of care. If you have a specific concern or query about your care, this should be raised in the normal way; directly with the healthcare professionals treating you. To help provide some context as to the type of information that would be useful to the inspection team, the five key questions that will be addressed by the inspection are: The inspection team would be pleased to learn of your views, positive and negative of the above-mentioned services. By requesting this feedback in advance of the inspection it will aid the inspection team in gaining a sense of services, and identify any particular trends. During the inspection itself, inspectors will also opportunistically engage with service users. This will again be voluntary, and anyone not wishing to speak with the inspectors will be under no obligation to do so. On completion of the inspection, a report will be developed by the independent experts. This report will be made available to the public in order to ensure transparency of a government department and allow for the public to read a balanced assessment of our services. The report is expected to identify areas for improvement and will contribute to future service enhancements.

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Government of Montserrat Launches EC$2 Million Montserrat Business Progressive Fund-(MBPF) Soft Loan Initiative to Boost Agriculture, Fisheries, and Small Business Development

Finance, Government, News

The Government of Montserrat (GoM), through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, in partnership with the Bank of Montserrat (BoM), today officially launched the Montserrat Business Progressive Fund (MBPF) – a transformative EC$2 million soft loan programme designed to stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and empower local entrepreneurs. The MBPF represents a significant investment in Montserrat’s economic future, providing accessible and affordable financing to registered farmers, fishers, agro-processors, and micro and small businesses. With an attractive interest rate of just 2.5% simple interest per annum and repayment terms of up to eight ( 8 ) years, the programme removes traditional barriers to capital access and enables productive investment in key economic sectors. Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Reuben T. Meade, emphasized the programme’s strategic importance to Montserrat’s development: “The Montserrat Business Progressive Fund represents our government’s unwavering commitment to building a more resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous economy. By providing accessible capital at affordable rates to our farmers, fishers, and entrepreneurs, we are investing in the people of Montserrat and creating lasting opportunities for economic growth. This initiative will help us reduce our reliance on food imports, strengthen our food security, and empower Montserratians to turn their business ideas into reality. Together, we are building One Montserrat – united in purpose and progress.” Programme Structure and Allocation The EC$2 million fund has been strategically allocated to maximize impact across critical sectors: • Agriculture and Fisheries Sector: EC$1,000,000 – targeting expansion of domestic production capacity, reduction of food imports (currently valued at approximately EC$18 million annually), and promotion of food sovereignty. • Agro-Processing and Micro and Small Businesses: EC$1,000,000 – enabling entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and stimulating employment across all economic sectors. Eligible applicants may access loans of up to EC$50,000 to invest in capital equipment, technology, machinery, and productive assets necessary for business expansion and enhanced competitiveness. The programme operates as a revolving fund, with loan repayments reinvested to ensure continued availability of financing for future beneficiaries. Eligibility Requirements To qualify for the MBPF, applicants must: • Be a Montserratian or permanent resident of Montserrat • Be a registered farmer, fisher, or micro/small business owner (including agro-processors) • Agree to commence paying social security contributions • Demonstrate financial responsibility and a credible repayment plan • Commit to using loan funds exclusively for productive, income-generating activities • Provide collateral in the form of acquired assets or personal assets free of encumbrances Notably, the programme is 100% debt financed, with no loan-to-value ratio, debt service ratio, or credit history review required for eligibility – removing traditional banking barriers and ensuring broad accessibility for Montserrat’s entrepreneurs. Programme Governance and Management The MBPF will be overseen by a dedicated Soft Loan Programme Committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Business, Trade and Investment Division, the Ministry of Agriculture, the private sector, and a Programme Manager. The Committee will be responsible for vetting applications, approving eligible beneficiaries, and monitoring programme outcomes. The Bank of Montserrat will serve as the disbursing agent, maintaining all programme funds, processing loan disbursements to approved beneficiaries, and managing the revolving fund mechanism. All applicants must maintain a valid account with the Bank of Montserrat. How to Apply Applications for the Montserrat Business Progressive Fund are now open. Interested applicants should complete the MBPF Application Form and submit it along with all required supporting documents to trade@gov.ms. For application forms, assistance with completing applications, or further information about the programme, please contact: Business Trade and Investment Unit Telephone: 491-2066 Email: trade@gov.ms The Montserrat Business Progressive Fund represents a milestone in the Government of Montserrat’s commitment to economic transformation and empowerment. By providing accessible capital to local farmers, fishers, and entrepreneurs, the programme will drive sustainable economic development and create lasting opportunities for all Montserratians.

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