The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to promoting good governance and the sustainable development of the Territory with a view to ensuring a well-informed, prosperous, cohesive, and stable society. The Premier’s Office serves as the focal point for coordinating cross-sectoral policies and programmes and promoting the sustainable development of the Virgin Islands to ensure a well-informed, prosperous, cohesive and stable society.
On March 24, 2025, Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, celebrated the opening of Ponce Health Sciences University’s School of Medicine in the Virgin Islands. He highlighted the school as a major step towards improving local healthcare and education, providing students with the opportunity to study medicine without leaving the Territory. The school will address healthcare challenges, create job opportunities, and foster medical research, while offering scholarships for Virgin Islanders. This initiative is expected to enhance healthcare services and contribute to the Territory’s development.
On World Cancer Day, the community is urged to unite in the fight against cancer. The Ministry of Health and Social Development, alongside the BVI Cancer Society, emphasizes the importance of early detection, timely intervention, and prevention in saving lives. This year marks the launch of the “United by Unique” campaign, focusing on a people-centred approach to cancer care. The campaign prioritizes individual, family, and community perspectives, aligning with the Virgin Islands' values of compassion and support. Preventative measures like maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and engaging in physical activity can reduce cancer risk. Regular screenings for breast, colon, prostate, cervical, and skin cancers are essential for early detection. The Virgin Islands is working with PAHO to eliminate cervical cancer through increased HPV vaccination and screenings. Residents are encouraged to support the BVI Cancer Society, prioritize screenings, and make healthier choices to reduce cancer's impact in the Territory.
The newly renovated main kitchen at the Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly was recently handed over, marking a significant milestone in strengthening care and improving daily living conditions for residents.
The speaker emphasizes the importance of unity, responsibility, and commitment to service for the future of the Virgin Islands. They highlight their dedication to securing a resilient economy, with a focus on financial services and creating opportunities for Virgin Islanders. The speaker also discusses their efforts, such as a Financial Services Bootcamp, and their role in fostering business growth, attracting investment, and supporting local communities. They accept the role out of duty, not personal ambition, and are committed to working together for the prosperity of the country.
Good day, Virgin Islands, On the nineteenth of June, I stood before you to declare water a national critical priority and to share the Government’s commitment to addressing the decades-long challenges in our water system. I acknowledged then, as I do now, the hardships our people and businesses continue to face with unreliable supply, and I said that action and not words would follow.
The DDM urges early preparation for the 2025 hurricane season, which is expected to be above average with 17 named storms. Residents are advised to plan ahead, gather supplies, and stay informed via the DDM Alert App. Preparation resources are available at www.bviddm.com.
Mr. Claude A. Kettle has been confirmed as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, starting January 2024. With a strong background in finance and public service, he will support policy development and oversee key ministry departments to help achieve its goals.
On February 1, 2025, the Government of the Virgin Islands announced that American Airlines successfully operated six flights to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Minister Kye M. Rymer highlighted the significance of this development for improving connectivity and boosting tourism. The event also underscores the commitment to expanding airport infrastructure to meet growing demand, as emphasized by Permanent Secretary Elvia Smith-Maduro. BVI Airports Authority Managing Director Kurt Menal noted the positive impact on tourism and economic growth. The Ministry of Communications and Works remains focused on developing and maintaining public infrastructure.
The Safe Haven Transitional Centre, with sponsorship from Mourant BVI, held an outreach initiative on April 4 to support vulnerable males in the Virgin Gorda community. The event provided Riteway Foods Market gift vouchers to those most in need. Coordinated with the Social Development Department, the initiative aimed to promote dignity, inclusion, and wellness. Director Mrs. Nellville George Bronstorph expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized the centre’s commitment to social change and community empowerment.