The issues were a common thread of speakers at the opening of the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the RNB on Tuesday, 12 August in Barbados, where the spotlight was placed on the anticipated increase in the need for nurses and midwives, and the need for guidance and action to mitigate the impacts of the shortage.
Dr. The Most Honourable Jerome Walcott, Minister of Health and Wellness of Barbados, delivered the feature address in which he lauded the achievements of the Regional Nursing Body over the past 50 years and its unwavering commitment to nursing excellence.
“The RNB now stands at a critical crossroad. You are not only being called upon to sustain the gains of the past, but to lead the transformation of the profession, to shape new models of care, and to prepare our nursing workforce to face complex health challenges ahead, which include, of course, ‘Dr. Google’ and the worrisome effects of climate change,” the Minister said.
He pointed to the “troubling trends” and “growing concerns” about nurse retention and called for courage and collaboration in charting the course ahead.
“Too many of our nurses are leaving for greener pastures, an issue that has become more acute in recent years. Small developing states such as ours simply cannot match the salaries and benefit packages offered by the larger, wealthier nations. As a result, we are facing staffing shortages that increase nurse-to-patient ratios, create longer shifts, which can lead to stress and burnout in some cases, and ultimately can compromise the quality of patient care,” he noted.
In her remarks, Ms. Alison Drayton, Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, highlighted the “critical shortage of these indispensable health professionals.” She cited the State of the World’s Nursing Report 2025 (SOWN), which pointed out that one in seven nurses globally was practising outside of the country of their birth, underscoring a growing dependence on foreign-born nurses within high-income countries.
“This dynamic poses significant challenges to the development and sustainability of health systems in low- and middle-income countries like those within our Region. Accordingly, it is imperative that the Region substantially increase its investments in the education, recruitment, and retention of nurses and midwives to safeguard the resilience and effectiveness of our health workforce,” the Assistant Secretary-General said.
Ms. Nester Edwards, Chair of the Regional Nursing Body and Chief Nursing Officer of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Religious Affairs of Grenada, also warned of the consequences if gaps are not filled.
“While they are among the largest, if not the largest, segment of the workforce in our healthcare systems, the Region continues to face a perennial shortage of nurses and midwives with high attrition rates and migration to more developed countries. According to the SOWN 2025 report, we are unlikely to achieve the targets for universal health coverage if the gap in these shortages is not filled,” she said.
She called for redoubled efforts to find effective strategies to recruit and retain nurses and midwives, including those in the diaspora. “Improving working conditions and utilising technological advancements and incentives, including flexible working hours, should be considered when developing these strategies,” she said.
The RNB chair also urged capacity-building of the next generation of nurses and midwives in leadership, policy development, strategic planning, and research.
Agenda items for the three-day meeting include developing an action plan to address the migration and mobility of health workers in the Region, a review of the SOWN 2025, new developments in nursing, and the results of the April 2025 sitting of the Regional Examination for Nurse Registration.
]]>Please read her remarks below:
Ms. Alison Drayton, Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, on Tuesday made remarks at the opening of the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the Regional Nursing Body (RNB) in Bridgetown, Barbados.
- Dr. The Most Honourable Jerome Walcott, Minister of Health and Wellness of Barbados
- Honourable Davidson Ishmael, Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Wellness of Barbados
- Mr. Wayne Marshall, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Wellness of Barbados
- Chief Nursing Officers
- Ms Piedad Huerta, Subregional Program Director, Caribbean, Ad Interim, Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation
- Delegates and other special invitees
Good morning and welcome to the Fifty-second Annual General Meeting of the Regional Nursing Body. The work of the Regional Nursing Body remains a critical part of addressing priority issues related to the education, practice, and regulation of nurses and midwives in the Caribbean region. Your leadership has been pivotal to the harmonisation of the provision of nursing and midwifery services throughout the region and serves to ensure the quality of care they provide. By being here today, you affirm your dedication to the ongoing work needed to tackle vital health challenges and priority concerns throughout the region.
It is important to note that the need for nursing and midwifery professionals is expected to increase, driven by the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases, the rising importance of mental health services, and the persistent challenges posed by both emerging and endemic communicable diseases. This urgency is further amplified by the multifaceted impacts of climate change, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and the demographic pressures of an aging population, all of which collectively heighten the complexity of health service needs across the Region.
However, the Caribbean region continues to face a critical shortage of these categories of indispensable health professionals. In fact, according to the ‘State of the World’s Nursing Report 2025’, one in seven nurses globally were practising outside of the country of their birth, underscoring a growing dependence on foreign-born nurses within high-income countries. This dynamic poses significant challenges to the development and sustainability of health systems in low- and middle-income countries like those within our Region. Accordingly, it is imperative that the region substantially increase its investments in the education, recruitment, and retention of nurses and midwives to safeguard the resilience and effectiveness of our health workforce.
Therefore, we look to the leadership of the Regional Nursing Body to provide the strategic guidance on how the Region can advance and expand the nursing and midwifery professions to support the achievement of universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Secretariat wishes to express profound thanks to the Government of Barbados for hosting the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the RNB. We also want to commend the coordinating teams in the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the CARICOM Secretariat for their tireless efforts to make this meeting a reality. Thanks are also extended to the associations, institutions, and development partners, including PAHO/WHO, for their continued support to our Member States. Last but not least, thanks to the Chief Nursing Officers and Nursing Councils of our Member States and Associate Members. Your active participation will be vital for the success of this meeting and instrumental in shaping nursing and midwifery policies and initiatives to advance the nursing profession and improve health outcomes across the region.
I wish you fruitful deliberation throughout the course of this meeting.
Thank you!
]]>“The CARICOM Secretariat sees [the CARPHA Strategic Plan 2025–2030] as an opportunity to strengthen structured collaboration between the Secretariat, CARPHA and other regional entities, and a road map to guide how Member States align their priorities and collaborate on critical regional imperatives. Ladies and gentlemen, this will no doubt require coordinated approaches to resource mobilisation, clear implementation roles across the health landscape and joint reporting on progress on regional development outcomes. We must reduce duplication, increase interoperability and focus on results that matter to the people of this Community.”
Dr Armstrong Alexis
Deputy Secretary-General, CARICOM
The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) officially unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025–2030 today, Wednesday, 30 July, at the Pegasus Hotel Guyana, marking a pivotal moment for regional public health advancement.
The high-level event featured a keynote address by Dr Armstrong Alexis, Deputy Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), who later joined CARPHA Executive Director Dr Lisa Indar to unveil the new Strategic Plan.
In his remarks, Dr Alexis emphasised the critical importance of strategic clarity and regional alignment in the face of shifting global dynamics.
“This Plan arrives at a time when focused implementation and deliberate design are essential. The Caribbean is now navigating a global landscape defined by overlapping crises, economic uncertainty, climate volatility, increased disease threats, and persistent structural challenges,” he stated. “These complexities demand evolving institutional responses, and CARPHA’s forward-looking strategy demonstrates a timely and commendable commitment to action.”
Dr Alexis further noted the potential for deeper integration across the Region, highlighting the Plan as a mechanism to enhance structured collaboration among CARPHA, the CARICOM Secretariat, and other regional institutions. He stressed the need for coordinated resource mobilisation, clearly defined implementation roles, and joint reporting mechanisms to monitor regional development outcomes.
“We must reduce duplication, increase interoperability, and focus on results that matter to the People of this Community,” concluded Dr Alexis.
CARPHA’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030 sets out the agency’s vision for strengthening regional health systems, fostering innovation, and delivering measurable impact across the Caribbean. The launch underscores a renewed commitment to public health leadership and resilience at a time when regional cooperation has never been more vital.
Please view Dr Alexis’ complete remarks below.
Keynote Address
by
Dr Armstrong Alexis
Deputy Secretary-General, CARICOM
Launch of the CARPHA Strategic Plan 2025–2030
30-31 July 2025
“Strategic Leadership in Regional Health”
Salutations:
- I wish to particularly say a pleasant good morning to the Chair of the CARPHA Board, the Hon. Minister Philip Telesford, Minister of Health of Grenada and Chair of the Board.
- Ms. Alison Drayton, Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development
- Dr Lisa Indar, Executive Director, CARPHA
- Chief Medical Officers
- Permanent Secretaries
- Colleagues from the CARICOM Secretariat and CARPHA
- Representatives of Regional Institutions
- International Development Partners
- Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning!
It is an honour and my distinct pleasure to be addressing you as your Keynote Speaker at this significant launch of the CARPHA 2025 – 2030 Strategic Plan. This, for me, is very significant as it comes in the backdrop of recent changes in the global economic landscape that necessitate a paradigm shift in the setting of priorities and ensuring that our institutions better position themselves to address the growing needs of our Region and its people.
I am particularly pleased to be addressing you this morning because over the past ten months, I have engaged CARPHA and officials in public health in the Caribbean in a number of settings, ensuring through it all, that the importance of the role that CARPHA plays as CARICOM’s premier public health institution is both recognised and secured. Today’s launch comes only a week after the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community signed a Joint Sub-regional cooperation Strategy with PAHO. CARPHA was intimately involved in crafting this strategy and will be integral in its implementation. The timeliness and relevance of this launch are therefore underscored as a pivotal and strategic landmark that signals the continuation of thoughtful and deliberate interventions to benefit the Region and secure public health gains that, if not reinforced, run the risk of loss of or reversal in previously achieved results.
My presence here this morning is also an indication of the commitment of the CARICOM Secretariat to walk the journey of hope and optimism with you, to navigate the tides of uncertainty with you and a pledge of the Secretariat’s commitment accompany you, advocate for you and join you in designing a future that affords our citizens a public health architecture that meets their needs, protects their interests and secures their right to live in a healthy Caribbean Region.
Ladies and gentlemen, we gather at a time when strategic clarity, alignment and implementation are not optional; on the contrary, they are essential ingredients for success and as I alluded earlier, the current shifts in the multilateral system compels us to be more strategic in our planning, more deliberate in our design and more focused in our approaches to secure results for our people. The global context in which the Caribbean must now operate is marked by overlapping crises, economic uncertainty, climate volatility, increased disease threats and persistent structural changes and challenges. These are complex issues, but they are not new to us, and while they evolve, so must our institutional responses. It is therefore timely and commendable that CARPHA has laid out a plan that is both responsive and forward-looking.
Importantly, the CARPHA Strategic Plan 2025-2030 does not exist in isolation. It complements and supports the broader health goals of the CARICOM Secretariat Strategic Plan 2022–2030.
There are several areas where this alignment is evident. Both Plans emphasise the urgent need to build resilient health systems capable of responding to public health threats. The Secretariat’s work through the Caribbean Cooperation in Health Framework and the Caribbean Regional Strategic Framework for HIV and AIDS is strengthened by CARPHA’s technical expertise in this area. The fight against NCDs remains central to the regional health agenda. CARPHA continues to provide technical leadership to the several policy mandates of the Community and in keeping with the Heads of Government adoption of a Results-Based Management Framework for the Caribbean and the Community, your Board has directed CARPHA to anchor its operations on the principles of Results-Based Management, and that is commendable.
It is my view, based on the value of the support you provide to the Community, the dedication of your team and the indispensable nature of your work, that CARPHA is a high-performing organisation. I am aware that there are challenges, but despite the bumps along the way, you have been able to withstand those forces that threaten to derail you and have persevered. Your achievement for the ending period is irrefutable, and your pathway to 2030 is well articulated in this plan that is being launched this morning. I can only therefore wish you every success and remind you that the CARICOM Secretariat is here to support you as you undertake your role as the Community’s premier public health institution.
It is also commendable that the leadership of CARPHA has so strategically positioned the organisation to ensure that the gains of the previous period will continue into the next. I want to pay particular congratulations to Dr Indar. I am not sure, Dr Indar, if I should still refer to you as the new Executive Director, but in your role, I wish to commend you for the tremendous work that you have done and the partnership that you have built over the past few months.
CARPHA and the CARICOM Secretariat have collaborated on several fronts in providing support to Member States, particularly in scaling up prevention efforts, strengthening surveillance and improving access to care. A thorough review of the CARICOM 2030 Strategic Plan and CARPHA’s Plans acknowledges the growing need for integrated mental health and psychosocial support. This is especially relevant in post-disaster and post-pandemic contexts, and evidence from post-Beryl, post-COVID-19 and post-volcanic eruption indicates clearly that trauma and recovery intersect with development. Finally, even as the Secretariat advances its work on climate resilience, it is imperative that CARPHA’s health-environment nexus be supported, whether through vector control, food and water safety, or health emergency preparedness.
The CARICOM Secretariat sees this Strategic Plan as an opportunity to strengthen structured collaboration between the Secretariat, CARPHA and other regional entities, and a road map to guide how Member States align their priorities and collaborate on critical regional imperatives. Ladies and gentlemen, this will no doubt require coordinated approaches to resource mobilisation, clear implementation roles across the health landscape and joint reporting on progress on regional development outcomes. We must reduce duplication, increase interoperability and focus on results that matter to the people of this Community.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, strategic plans are only as good as the results obtained from their implementation. The CARICOM Secretariat welcomes the strong alignment between our two Plans, but alignment is just the beginning. What we now need is to deliberate on coordination between regional institutions, particularly in terms of implementation in Member States, resource mobilisation and progress monitoring. A key component of the successful implementation of this Strategic Plan will be robust monitoring and evaluation, allowing us to track progress, assess impact and make timely adjustments. Capacity building within Member States must also remain a priority. By investing in the training and development of healthcare professionals, we strengthen the foundation of our regional health systems. In parallel, we must continue to advocate for evidence-based health policies and facilitate the sharing of best practices across our Member States. These actions, taken together, will not only enhance delivery but will also reinforce our collective commitment to improving public health outcomes, strengthening resilience and promoting long-term sustainability in the Caribbean.
I take this occasion to commend CARPHA on its achievements over the past five (5) years. One which stands out to me is being successful in the bidding for The Pandemic Fund and also, most recently, securing grants for the support of AMR-led projects of which Member States are beneficiaries. Ladies and gentlemen, these were not only timely, but invaluable. Let us applaud these tremendous achievements and recommit ourselves to doing even more to ensure purposeful benefits are derived from the outstanding work that is done every day by our public health professionals.
The CARICOM Secretariat remains committed to supporting CARPHA and urges Member States to continue dialogue on advancing health. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, if there were ever a time for this collaboration, it’s now. Henry Ford reminds us that “Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success“. We must continue to convene, coordinate, and advocate at the national, regional and international levels to ensure that health remains a pillar of resilience and a driver of development. As we move forward, let us be specific about where collaboration can be deepened for real impact on the Region’s human development and sustainability.
There are already mechanisms in place, such as the Caribbean Cooperation in Health Framework, Inter-agency and Member State-led Technical Working Groups, the Regional Health Communication Network, Regional Core Coordination Groups and other activities led by other partners. Let us build on these and ensure that implementation is not fragmented, but integrated and efficient.
In closing, I applaud CARPHA once again on the development of this strategic document which highlights a review of the achievements, challenges and the recommendations to not only mitigate current threats, but to be strategically positioned to address future and re-emerging health threats. Ladies and gentlemen, this is a significant milestone that is to be celebrated. The CARICOM Secretariat reaffirms its support as we transition from planning to implementation. In closing, I wish you a successful launch, purposeful deliberations and succinct outputs from today’s engagement. I look forward to implementation on priority areas and in time to come, we should be able to gather again to review outcomes and celebrate success.
Thank you.
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]]>The Caribbean’s unique vulnerabilities — from small population bases and porous borders to economic dependence on tourism and the escalating impacts of climate change — demand coordinated, context-specific, and forward-looking solutions. Strengthening our collective capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats is, therefore, not optional, it is imperative.
Alison Drayton | Assistant Secretary-General | Human and Social Development | CARICOM
Regional and international public health stakeholders gathered in Georgetown, Guyana, for the Joint Workshop on Regional Health Security and the Regional Coordinating Mechanism for Health Security, held at the Pegasus Hotel Guyana, on Monday, 28 July. The event marked a pivotal moment in advancing the Regional Health Security Pathway, with discussions focused on assessing progress, identifying remaining gaps, and accelerating efforts to embed the public health tools developed by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) within national development frameworks.
Hosted by CARPHA, the workshop was convened under the theme “Transitioning from Pathway to Action.” It emphasised the importance of strategic coordination across countries and institutions and is aligned with opportunities presented by The Pandemic Fund, positioning the Caribbean to strengthen health systems through unified planning and implementation.
In her opening remarks, CARICOM’s Assistant Secretary-General for Human and Social Development, Alison Drayton, highlighted the Region’s shared experience with recent public health challenges, calling for a shift from vision to tangible results. “This is not only about public health—it is about safeguarding regional development, building resilience, and ensuring sustainability,” she noted.
The workshop provided a platform for dynamic dialogue among partners, reinforcing the collective commitment to a healthier, more secure Caribbean.
Please read the Assistant Secretary-General’s complete remarks below.
WELCOME REMARKS
Alison Drayton
Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development
CARICOM Secretariat
Joint RHS and RCM-HS Workshop | “Transitioning from Pathway to Action”
Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown, Guyana
July 28, 2025 | 9:00 AM
Salutations:
The Honourable Dr. Frank Anthony – Minister of Health, Co-operative Republic of Guyana
Dr. Lisa Indar – Executive Director, CARPHA
Dr. Priya Basu – Executive Head, Pandemic Fund Secretariat
Dr. Kavita Singh – Sector Lead Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank
Esteemed representatives of PAHO/WHO, CDEMA, IMPACS, RSS, UKHSA, and other valued regional and international health partners
Representatives of CARICOM Member States and Associate Members
Development and Technical Partners
Members of the Media
Colleagues, Friends –
Good morning!
On behalf of the CARICOM Secretariat, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to this Joint Workshop on Regional Health Security and the Regional Coordinating Mechanism for Health Security, held under the timely and action-oriented theme, “Transitioning from Pathway to Action.”
We meet today at a critical juncture. Our Region’s shared experience with recent public health threats has underscored the urgent need to transform intention into implementation, strategy into structure, and vision into verifiable results. It is not merely a matter of public health,it is a matter of regional development, resilience, and sustainability.
The Caribbean’s unique vulnerabilities — from small population bases and porous borders to economic dependence on tourism and the escalating impacts of climate change — demand coordinated, context-specific, and forward-looking solutions. Strengthening our collective capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats is, therefore, not optional, it is imperative.
Following the 2014 Ebola threat, our Heads of Government responded with decisive leadership, establishing the Regional Coordination Mechanism on Ebola, which was later expanded in 2015 into the Regional Coordinating Mechanism for Health Security (RCM-HS). This mechanism, chaired by CARPHA, has become an essential pillar in our regional governance framework for health security.
Within this architecture, the Caribbean has led with innovation, developing homegrown tools and systems such as:
- Mass Gathering Surveillance Module,
- Tourism and Health Information System,
- Caribbean Vessel Surveillance System,
- Caribbean Public Health Laboratory Network,
- Caribbean Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme,
- and most recently, the implementation of projects under the Pandemic Fund.
These innovations represent more than just technical tools; they reflect a deliberate shift toward resilience, multisectoral coordination, and country ownership. We are moving from reactive response to strategic readiness, a vision we must all commit to making real.
We are deeply grateful to CARPHA, our Member States, and all international development partners for their tireless work and collaboration in advancing this agenda. We particularly recognise the critical support provided by the Pandemic Fund and the Inter-American Development Bank, whose investments are helping to future-proof our health systems and empower our Region to better withstand future crises.
Over the course of this workshop, I encourage frank and focused engagement. Let us assess our progress under the Regional Health Security Pathway, identify what remains to be done, and strengthen integration by embedding CARPHA’s public health tools within national health and development plans, all while aligning closely with the broader opportunities offered through the Pandemic Fund.
The CARICOM Secretariat remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing a Regional Health Security framework that is not only operational and effective, but inclusive and people-centred. Together, we must work to ensure that our health security efforts protect lives, preserve livelihoods, and secure the well-being and future of our Caribbean Community.
I thank you for your presence and participation and wish you a productive, solution-driven workshop.
Thank you
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Programme Manager for Health Sector Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Tamara Bobb, reminds us that hepatitis is a silent yet deadly disease impacting millions worldwide.
“Viral hepatitis remains a leading cause of liver cancer and related deaths worldwide, particularly due to chronic Hepatitis B and C infections. However, the truth is that it can be prevented through vaccination, treated with effective antivirals, and, in the case of Hepatitis C, often cured completely,” she said.
This year’s campaign highlights five key facts the public should know:
1⃣ Hepatitis is a silent threat—but we can stop it together. Globally, 3,500 lives are lost daily from B and C strains of hepatitis, which can cause severe liver damage and cancer. Most people are unaware that they are infected. Testing and awareness can save lives.
2⃣ A simple test can save your life. Even without symptoms, hepatitis can be present. Testing is quick and crucial for early treatment. If you’ve had surgery, tattoos, or were born before the 1990s, ask your doctor about screening.
3⃣ Vaccination starts protection early. Newborns can be exposed during birth. The Hepatitis B vaccine, especially when given within 24 hours of birth, offers lifelong protection. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to verify the vaccination status of their children.
4⃣ Stigma is still a barrier; let’s break it down. Misconceptions and blame prevent many from seeking care. Communities are encouraged to challenge myths and spread accurate, compassionate information.
5⃣ Everyone has a role to play. In the workplace, everyone can help to end hepatitis. Promote healthy workplace practices, join health screenings, and share information with friends and colleagues.
For more information, please consult your health provider or visit the WHO’s official Hepatitis page: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-hepatitis-day
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“The [PAHO-CARICOM Joint Sub-regional Cooperation Strategy (JSCS) 2025-2029] is a continuation of a process. CARICOM has prioritised health outcomes for a long time, and this long-standing commitment of CARICOM will continue.”
Dr Carla Barnett | Secretary-General | CARICOMWednesday, 23 July 2025 (CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown): The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on Tuesday, signed a Joint Subregional Cooperation Strategy (JSCS) aimed at enhancing regional public health response and resilience through coordinated technical collaboration. The agreement was formalised by CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnettand PAHO Director Dr Jarbas Barbosa.
This joint strategy establishes a five-year plan for concerted action to address common regional health issues, uniting CARICOM, PAHO, subregional, and international partners to bolster the Caribbean’s health agenda. It focuses on five key strategic priorities to steer PAHO’s technical assistance in the Caribbean subregion. All fifteen (15) CARICOM Member States as well as six the (6) Associate Members will benefit from this strategy.
Dr Barnett, in her address, recogised PAHO’s continued collaboration, noting,
“The [PAHO-CARICOM Joint Sub-regional Cooperation Strategy (JSCS) 2025-2029] is a continuation of a process. CARICOM has prioritised health outcomes for a long time, and this long-standing commitment of CARICOM will continue.”
The Secretary General expressed that this landmark moment in the partnership with PAHO, solidifies the ongoing support for the development and implementation of public health policies across the Region and ensures good health investments for the People of the Community.
Dr Barnett shares more of her perspective on the JSCS below.
“This signing marks a milestone in a long-standing partnership rooted in trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the health and well-being of the peoples of the Caribbean,” said Dr Barbosa, emphasising that “the Caribbean faces unique and interconnected public health challenges: from the rising burden of noncommunicable diseases, to the effects of climate change, to the urgency of digital transformation and the need for resilient health systems. These challenges do not stop at borders, and neither can our solutions.”
The PAHO Director provides more insight on the organisation’s long-standing partnership with CARICOM below.
Guyana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, echoed the significance of the Joint Strategy, stating,
“This strategy affirms that health is not just a service, it is a right. In the Caribbean, that right must not be determined by geography, income, or age.”
Minister Anthony shares more of his perspective on the JSCS below.
Helpful Links:
Noncommunicable Diseases | Data/Statistics
https://www.paho.org/en/topics/noncommunicable-diseases
Major Storm on the Horizon: NCDs and mental health conditions to cost South America trillions by 2050
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This powerful partnership sets the course for five years of unified action to tackle regional health challenges, bringing together CARICOM, PAHO, and partners near and far to strengthen the Caribbean’s health agenda.
The JSCS will also address the Region’s common health challenges in a coordinated and integrated manner.
“I am on record as saying that we need to launch a war on gangs of a similar magnitude and nature to the war on terror.”
Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MPChair, CARICOM
Prime Minister, Jamaica
CARICOM Heads of Government have agreed to tackle the Region’s crime and security challenge with the adoption of the Montego Bay Declaration on Transnational Organised Crime and Gangs, underscoring leaders’ united stance against criminal networks.
This was highlighted by Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, CARICOM Chair and Jamaica’s Prime Minister, during the closing media conference for the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government, which was held from 6-8 July in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
“A secure CARICOM is a viable CARICOM,” stated the CARICOM Chairman, “And as such, security remains high on the agenda for the duration of my chairmanship and beyond.”
Prime Minister Holness shared that leaders also held talks with the Secretary-General of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), Valdecy Urquiza, who “committed to strengthening cooperation and expanding access to its global resources.”
In the Declaration, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering the Region’s efforts against organised crime by tracking emerging trends in illicit firearms trafficking, introducing strong legislation with tougher penalties for firearm and gang-related offences and enhancing public awareness to support prevention and prosecution initiatives.
Firm stance
During his keynote address at the Meeting’s opening ceremony on Sunday, the Prime Minister underscored that CARICOM nations must take a firm stance on organised criminal gangs, reiterating his position that gang violence must be regarded as acts of terrorism.
He stated that gang networks have grown well beyond typical street-level crime and now pose a serious threat to regional security and emphasised that addressing this issue requires the same level of urgency and coordinated action as the global fight against terrorism.
“I am on record as saying that we need to launch a war on gangs of a similar magnitude and nature to the war on terror,” the CARICOM Chairman stated.
Dr Holness underscored the urgent need for Member States to collaborate in dismantling the resources that fuel criminal organisations, particularly their access to financial systems.
Referencing a July 2024 United Nations report, Dr. Holness noted findings on the influence of gang activity in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago. The report also highlighted a correlation between escalating drug production in South America, widespread firearm availability, and rising homicide rates.
Dr Holness further stated that the deteriorating security situation in Haiti serves as a stark warning and a call to immediate, coordinated regional action.
“It is the organisation of violence for profit. It is not merely street-level, dispossessed, socially excluded youngsters. There is a level of intelligence, a level of resources, a level of organisation that has been brought to crime and violence, which is being used for profit, stated the Prime Minister.
Adding, “My own view is that policy and jurisprudence need to evolve to address this matter.”
The Prime Minister underscored the immense scale and complexity of crime affecting the Region, cautioning that it cannot be resolved overnight or through short-term efforts.
He emphasised that a durable solution will require robust investment and widespread public engagement across the Community, noting that unified support is essential to effectively confront the threat.
Helpful Links:
UNODC, Caribbean Gangs “Drugs, firearms, and gang networks in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago”, 2024
Keynote Address | Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP | Prime Minister of Jamaica | Chairman of CARICOM | 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government| 6 July 2025
“This workshop represents CARPHA’s continued commitment to strengthening Member States’ readiness and response capabilities with novel [Early Warning Systems] tools designed for the Caribbean context, i.e. small islands, varying surveillance and laboratory capacities, porous interconnected borders, tourism dependency and vulnerability to disasters and climate change impact. Through this initiative, we are reinforcing the foundation for EWS and a more timely, coordinated and resilient Caribbean public health system, one that responds quickly, decisively, and collaboratively to health emergencies.”
Dr Lisa Indar,
Executive Director of CARPHA
(Via CARPHA): The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has strengthened the Caribbean Region’s capacity to detect and respond to public health threats in a timely manner through a four-day Regional Multisectoral Workshop on Strengthening Emergency and Response (E&R) and Integrated Early Warning Systems (EWS), using CARPHA’s innovative EWS tools. The workshop was held in Kingston, Jamaica, from 8 to 11 July 2025, and brought together over 60 public health professionals from 11 Member States across the Caribbean.
Participants included national epidemiologists, surveillance officers, laboratory specialists, environmental health officers, emergency response coordinators, port health personnel, and representatives from ministries of health, tourism, and disaster management. The training focused on improving emergency coordination, enhancing surveillance capabilities, and strengthening countries’ ability to respond swiftly to public health threats.
The workshop was funded by CARPHA’s Pandemic Fund Project for Reducing the Public Health Impact of Pandemics in the Caribbean and the EU’s 11th European Development Fund Programme for Health Security Strengthening. Countries were trained in CARPHA’s Caribbean-tailored innovative tools for strengthening EWS, such as CARPHA’s enhanced DHIS-2 system, Timeliness Metrics Strategy, Tourism and Health Information System (THiS), and Mass Gathering Syndromic Surveillance System (MGSS).
A key focus of the training was the introduction of CARPHA’s Timeliness Metrics Strategy. This Caribbean-specific tool helps countries assess how quickly they move from detection to response during a public health event in a Caribbean small island developing, tourism-dependent setting. With its use, countries can identify delays and bottlenecks and improve national decision-making timelines to prevent rapid spread and large outbreaks.
Participants were introduced to the CARPHA digital surveillance tools used for early warning surveillance in the detection and monitoring of infectious diseases in different environments. The systems reviewed were the Tourism and Health Information System (THiS) used in tourism accommodations, the Cruise Ship Vessel Sanitation Surveillance system (CVSS) on cruise ships, and the Mass Gathering Syndromic Surveillance System (MGSS), which tracks symptoms reported during large public events. All tools are tailored to the Caribbean context and support early detection of unusual health events before they escalate.
The workshop featured simulation exercises that allowed participants to develop and test Incident Action Plans and strengthen real-time coordination among national sectors. These exercises also highlighted the importance of clear communication protocols and collaboration across agencies.
Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director of CARPHA, underscored the significance of the initiative. “This workshop represents CARPHA’s continued commitment to strengthening Member States’ readiness and response capabilities with novel EWS tools designed for the Caribbean context, i.e. small islands, varying surveillance and laboratory capacities, porous interconnected borders, tourism dependency and vulnerability to disasters and climate change impact. Through this initiative, we are reinforcing the foundation for EWS and a more timely, coordinated and resilient Caribbean public health system, one that responds quickly, decisively, and collaboratively to health emergencies.”
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Errol Green, Jamaica’s Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr. Howard Lynch, Chief Technical Director, Policy, Planning and Development, said, “What is certain is that health threats are no respecter of borders and early detection is crucial in mitigating their impact. Strengthening regional and multisectoral coordination is a sign of our deepened investment and commitment to health sector resilience. This collaboration is sure to enhance information sharing, promote research and shore up early warning and disease surveillance systems; laboratory systems and strengthen public health human resources.”
Ms. Karisa Ribeiro, Chief of Operations at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), underscored the importance of CARPHA’s leadership in advancing regional resilience. “As a trusted authority in regional health, CARPHA has launched the groundbreaking [CARPHA Pandemic Fund] project to reduce the public health impact of pandemics in the Caribbean through prevention, preparedness and response. This project goes beyond national borders, as Dr. Lisa (Indar) mentioned; it recognises that no single country can tackle pandemic threats alone. Regional coordination is not a luxury. It is a necessity,” she emphasised.
Mr. Aniceto Rodriguez-Ruiz, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas, remarked, “The EU is deeply committed to strengthening resilience in the Caribbean with CARPHA and to recognising the Region’s vulnerability to disasters, climate change and health emergencies. Central to this commitment is enhancing the public health infrastructure to reduce the impact of pandemics through comprehensive prevention, preparedness and response strategies.”
The workshop’s outputs, including revised emergency action plans and protocols for coordinated multisectoral response, will contribute to national planning processes and support Member States’ progress toward the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) benchmarks. These benchmarks are part of a World Health Organization-led process that helps countries assess and improve their capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health emergencies. CARPHA will continue to provide technical assistance to support Member States in applying the tools and strategies learned during the workshop.
About the Pandemic Fund Project
CARPHA is the Executing Agency for the Pandemic Fund Project, with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) as the Implementing Entity. The goal of this Project, which spans from 2024 to 2026, is to reduce the Public Health Impact of Pandemics in the Caribbean through Prevention, Preparedness, and Response (PPR). The objective is to support the reduction of the public health impact of pandemics in the Caribbean by building pandemic PPR surveillance and early warning systems, laboratory systems and workforce capacity, regionally at CARPHA and at country levels. This will reduce the transboundary spread of infectious diseases and improve regional and global health security. CARPHA is the beneficiary of the PF project and CARPHA Member States are the participants.
]]>“This event reminds us that health is not just a personal responsibility, but a regional priority. With non-communicable diseases placing enormous strain on our families, our economies, and our healthcare system, we must embrace a culture of prevention, one that champions healthy living, movement, and mindfulness. Events like this are more than symbolic, they raise awareness, inspire action, and build a culture of wellness that starts with the individual but strengthens the entire Community.”
Dr The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP,CARICOM Chairman
Prime Minister, Jamaica
Saturday, 5 July 2025 (CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown): The 18th CARICOM Road Race 10K event was held today, Saturday, 5 July, in Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica.Trinidad and Tobago’s Alexia John claimed the CARICOM Secretary-General’s Trophy – Female and first prize in the Overall Female category, while Carlie Robinson (Barbados) and Cindy Rose (Jamaica) won second and third prizes, respectively.
Trinidad and Tobago dominated the top position again in the Overall Male category, with popular athlete Nicholas Romany winning the CARICOM Chairman’s Trophy and Garfield Gordon (Jamaica) and Cleveland Thomas (Guyana) capturing the second and third prizes, respectively.
Eight (8) CARICOM Member States participated in the event, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
The Road Races form part of the pre-event activities of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, scheduled for 6-8 July in Montego Bay, Jamaica under the chairmanship of Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Chair of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Jamaica.
In his address ahead of the award presentation, Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasised the significance of the Race to the celebration of CARICOM Day.
“This [Road Race] is particularly special because it is Jamaica’s signature event to commemorate CARICOM Day, which is observed on July 4th. CARICOM Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a moment for reflection and renewal, a time for us to take stock of how far we have come as a Community, and to chart the path ahead for purpose and ambition,” stated the CARICOM Chair.
He noted that the Race’s theme “Caribbean Moves” was inspired by Jamaica’s programme, “Jamaica Moves” which promotes physical activity and wellness across the island.
“This event reminds us that health is not just a personal responsibility, but a regional priority. With non-communicable diseases placing enormous strain on our families, our economies, and our healthcare system, we must embrace a culture of prevention, one that champions healthy living, movement, and mindfulness. Events like this are more than symbolic, they raise awareness, inspire action, and build a culture of wellness that starts with the individual but strengthens the entire Community,” underscored the CARICOM Chair.
The Road Race, according to CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett, reflects CARICOM’s commitment to tackling the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by advocating for active lifestyles and healthy nutrition.
“Thank you to all the participants for making this message loud and clear to the Community: that it is important for all of us to keep moving. Jamaica moves, CARICOM moves, we all move towards a healthier way of living,” stated Dr Barnett.
Prime Minister Holness presented the CARICOM Chairman’s Trophy and other top prizes while Dr Carla Barnett, presented the Secretary-General’s trophy. Also present were Ms Alison Drayton, Assistant Secretary-General, CARICOM Secretariat; members of the Cabinet of Jamaica; and officials from the Government of Jamaica and the CARICOM Secretariat.
This year, Jamaica introduced a 5K run and 5K walk as elements of the CARICOM Road Race.
The CARICOM Secretariat envisions the event as a beacon to advocate for Caribbean nationals adopting healthier lifestyles for better health outcomes.
Click below to view reactions from the top prize winners of the Race, Alexia John and Nicholas Romany.
Editor’s notes:
The complete list of winners for the 18th CARICOM Road Races-10K is available at https://www.runningeventsja.com/results/
Details for the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM are available at https://caricom.org/49hgc/
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