On March 2nd, a concert was held to honor the life of Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, the Virgin Islands' first Chief Minister. The event featured performances of his favorite songs, tributes, and video presentations reflecting on his contributions to education and development. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley made special presentations, and after the concert, H. Lavity Stoutt Day was observed on March 3rd with wreath-laying ceremonies at his gravesite. Premier Wheatley, Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton, and his daughter Peggy Stoutt laid the wreaths. The celebrations emphasized Stoutt's lasting impact on the Virgin Islands.
The Ministry of Finance is pleased to announce that S&P Global Ratings (S&P) has affirmed the British Virgin Islands' 'BBB' long-term and 'A-2' short-term sovereign credit ratings. This affirmation, accompanied by a stable outlook, serves as a powerful endorsement of our territory’s resilient institutional framework and our unwavering commitment to prudent fiscal management.
The Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, held a Down Syndrome Awareness event at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. The event, themed "Improve Our Support Systems," included a motorcade and sports day to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. Director of Disability Services, Crystal Estridge, highlighted the enthusiastic participation of individuals in games, promoting inclusivity and equal participation. The Ministry of Health and Social Development thanked all contributors and reaffirmed its commitment to improving disability services and fostering an inclusive society.
Educators in the Virgin Islands have completed an intensive week of training on the new digital OECS Harmonised Primary Curriculum, an initiative set to transform teaching and learning across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The curriculum, developed under the OECS PEARL Project (Programme for Educational Advancement and Relevant Learning), spans Kindergarten through Grade 6 and covers all four core subject areas. The initiative represents a unified regional effort to modernize classroom instruction, strengthen student engagement, and provide teachers with digital tools that enhance their effectiveness.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is marking the commencement of the New Law Year with a Ceremonial Opening under the theme, “Accessibility and Awareness - The ECSC Bridging the Gap Through Community Engagement.” The event, hosted by Saint Lucia, includes a church service at the Road Town Methodist Church in Tortola and a Special Sitting at the High Court in Tortola. The Acting Chief Justice, Mr. Mario Michel, will deliver the feature address live from Saint Lucia. The event will be streamed live across various platforms. The ECSC, established in 1967, serves the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and has unlimited jurisdiction in its Member States and Territories. For more information, visit the ECSC website or call 758-457-3600.
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) in the Premier’s Office has confirmed that a single-boat accident occurred on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Leverick Bay Marina, Virgin Gorda. The centre console powerboat Anadanto capsized, injuring all six people onboard. Chief Marine Safety Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore stated that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the accident’s circumstances. The investigation aims to improve maritime safety and prevent future incidents and will not assign blame or liability. A public safety report will be released when appropriate.
In honor of International Women’s Day, the Office of Gender Affairs, in collaboration with public and social agencies, donated groceries to support single parents in need. The initiative aimed to alleviate food insecurity while promoting gender equality and community empowerment. Seven single parents received food baskets, with the initiative focusing on vulnerable families. The event aligns with the 2025 theme, "For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment." The Gender Affairs Coordinator emphasized the importance of supporting vulnerable members of the community, with plans to expand the initiative. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the global celebration of International Women’s Day.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (Commission) is pleased to share that it participated in the 40th Annual CANTO Conference and Trade Exhibition, held from July 12 to 17, 2025, in Nassau, The Bahamas.
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) confirms that 25 submissions have been received for the Road Town Partnership National Monument Design Competition, which officially closed this weekend.
Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, officially launched Vaccination Week in the Americas 2025, emphasizing the theme “Your Decision Makes a Difference: Immunisation for All.” He highlighted the critical role of vaccines in protecting public health, preventing diseases like measles, and safeguarding vulnerable groups such as children, expectant mothers, and the elderly. He addressed the challenges of vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, urging the public to trust in vaccines and encouraging pregnant women and healthcare workers to stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations. The government is committed to maintaining high vaccination coverage and supporting health systems in disease detection and response. The week-long campaign, coordinated by the BVI Health Services Authority and PAHO, includes community outreach and educational activities to promote immunisation.