News - ZJB Radio

Priority Areas Identified for Disaster Management and Emergency Response Support for Montserrat

A series of priority areas for disaster management and emergency response support for Montserrat have been identified. This follows an official 3-day visit to the island by Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) Elizabeth Riley. During the April 27–29 visit, Riley engaged in a series of meetings with Government Officials and key stakeholders. She told ZJB News that agreements had been reached on several immediate actions aimed at strengthening support and coordination on the island.

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The Ministry of Health Proactively Prepares Healthcare System for Potential Hantavirus Exposure

Health, News

The Ministry of Health is taking proactive steps to prepare the island’s healthcare system should the island be exposed to the Hantavirus. Hantavirus is a rodent-borne viral disease with around 20 strains found worldwide. It naturally circulates in specific rodent populations, which shed the virus in urine, droppings, and saliva. Humans can become infected through contact with infected rodents or their contaminated feces. Speaking on the Talking Health Radio Programme, Chief Medical Officer Dr Sharra Greenaway-Duberry said the Ministry is reviewing its protocols and closely monitoring global and regional developments. Dr Greenaway-Duberry is reassuring residents that the island’s risk of exposure and transmission of the virus remains low.

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Minor Earthquake at Soufrière Hills Volcano Within Normal Activity Levels

News

The Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) is reassuring residents that activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano remains within normal levels following a minor earthquake on Saturday night. At 9:02 PM, a local volcano-tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of 3.7 was felt in some areas around the island. Acting Director at the MVO Dr Karen Pascal gives an update on the event.

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Tutors Praise Work of Participants in RISE Rehabilitation Programme

News

Tutors involved in the Reintegration into Society for Ex-Offenders- RISE rehabilitation programme have praised inmate participants for their discipline, determination and commitment to personal growth. In June of 2025, the Department of Community, Youth and Sports Services- DCYSS, launched the RISE programme to support inmates through education, skills training and structured development with an aim at reducing re-offending. Speaking during the recent certificate distribution ceremony, instructors reflected on the progress made by participants. Mathematics and English teacher, Zelma White, commended the learners for their courage and perseverance, noting that each certificate represented hard work, resilience and the willingness to keep moving forward despite challenges. Agriculture instructor Elvis Gerald said inmates showed strong enthusiasm and respect throughout the training sessions, which covered both agriculture and biosecurity. Meanwhile, ICT instructor, Shealsha Payne, highlighted the participants’ eagerness to learn and noted that many progressed through the course material faster than expected.

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Montserrat Red Cross launches Design and Development Phase of a Cash and Voucher Assistance Programme for Montserrat

News

The Montserrat Red Cross has officially launched the design and development phase of a Cash and Voucher Assistance Programme (CVA) for Montserrat. This launch took place on Friday May 8th, World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day at the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) conference room in Yellow Hill The day was observed under the theme, “On the side of humanity.” The CVA programme is expected to provide cash and vouchers to individuals and families after an emergency, allowing them to meet their own prioritized needs. Speaking at the launch, director of the Montserrat Red Cross, Delmaude Ryan, gave details on this phase of the programme, saying many stakeholders will be engaged throughout the process. Meanwhile, British Red Cross Emergency Programme Manager, Ammar Ibrahim, explained the aim of the CVA programme. In her remarks at the launch, Governor Her Excellency Harriet Cross highlighted the vital role the Red Cross plays in disaster management, and its valued partnership with the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA). She also made a special announcement – confirming her acceptance to serve as Patron of the Montserrat Red Cross. The launch also featured remarks from Director of Social Services, Teresena Fergus. Red Cross Board Chairman, Mr John Skerritt also presented a cheque to the Meals on Wheels Programme in recognition of their continued and invaluable contribution to the Montserrat community.

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Government of Montserrat works on Strengthening Cybersecurity and Expanding Digital Services on Island

News

The Government of Montserrat says it is moving ahead with plans to strengthen cyber security and expand digital services across the island. Speaking during the 2026/27 Budget Presentation, Premier the Honourable Rueben T Meade said government remains committed to embracing technology while also taking growing cyber threats seriously. He said Cabinet has approved a National Cyber Security Strategy, being implemented through the Department of Information Technology and E-Government Services, DITES. Premier Meade said the strategy is aimed at improving the island’s resilience against cyber threats targeting information systems and financial networks.

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Montserrat Electoral Commission invites Youth Contributions to Ongoing Electoral Reforms

News, Youth

The Montserrat Electoral Commission is inviting young people to contribute to ongoing electoral reforms on the island. Speaking at the National Youth Parliament Elections last week, Supervisor of Elections, Barrington Chalmers gave a review of current reforms being considered to improve Montserrat’s election process. He said youth participation in these discussions is encouraged and applauded the youth parliamentarians for taking on the role.

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Interactive Whale Displays Planned as Part of Local Marine Conservation Efforts

News

An interactive art installation is in the works on Montserrat as part of the ongoing whale and cetacean project, aimed at raising awareness of marine life and biodiversity. Project representative Emmy Aston said the initiative will feature creatively designed whale displays, inspired by similar public art concepts used in other communities. She explained that members of the community will be invited to take part by designing and decorating the whale pieces. The approach is intended to encourage community engagement while highlighting the importance of marine conservation. Beyond the artistic element, Aston emphasized the broader goal of protecting Montserrat’s natural environment. She said the island’s rich biodiversity is a vital resource that must be preserved for future generations.

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Youth Affairs Minister Reaffirms Support for Young People on Montserrat

News

Minister for Youth Affairs, Honourable John P. Osborne has reaffirmed his support for youth on Montserrat. He made this declaration at the Montserrat National Youth Parliament Election last Saturday. Minister Osborne spoke on the importance of a national youth parliament, saying it is not just a title. He said it provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience, share ideas from their perspectives, and have their voices heard. Minister Osborne also commended the newly elected youth parliamentarians for stepping into leadership roles. The Youth Affairs Minister further praised those responsible for re-establishing the youth parliament. He said efforts are being made to bring a renewed purpose and sustainability to the system.

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Montserrat’s CoP Represents British Overseas Territories at Leadership in Counter Terrorism Conference

News

Commissioner of Police Mark Payne represented the British Overseas Territories at the Leadership in Counter Terrorism conference in New York last week. The April 28 – 30 conference brought together current and former strategic Counter Terrorism leaders from the 5 eyes network to broaden understanding of the current issues, threats and risks. Over the few days, participants were briefed on and discuss the Global Counter Terrorism risks and share information in an appropriately vetted forum. Commissioner Payne’s attendance comes as result of his prior leadership role within the United Kingdom’s counter-terrorism community. As a vetted and qualified member, Mr. Payne attended the high-level event on behalf of the Regional Commissioners Group. Commissioner Payne told ZJB News that the event was highly valuable in strengthening international security collaboration. He said the Counter Terrorism picture is changing rapidly and current world events are accelerating some of the risks. Commissioner Payne said it was extremely important that the region and territories were represented at the event so that the best possible opportunity could be obtained to keep all communities safe.

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