The Government of the Virgin Islands will honor the late H. Lavity Stoutt in a concert on March 2, marking the 25th anniversary of his commemorative celebration and second since his elevation to National Hero status. The event, titled "Heroes Live Forever: The H. Lavity Stoutt Concert," will be held at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College campus at 6:00 p.m. The concert will feature performances from local artists and seek to raise funds for the college. A special presentation will be made by Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley to those who have contributed to honoring Stoutt. The celebrations also include a National Wreath Laying Ceremony on March 3 at Cappoons Bay Cemetery.
The Government of the Virgin Islands (GoVI) currently holds fifteen standard loans with four creditors: three domestic (CIBC Caribbean, Republic Bank, and the Social Security Board) and one external (Caribbean Development Bank). Domestic debt totals $71.77 million (47.1% of total debt), while external debt with CDB accounts for $80.49 million (52.9%). Most of the debt (79.2%, or $120.62 million) carries floating interest rates, primarily with SSB, CIBC, and CDB, while the remaining 20.8% ($31.64 million) is fixed-rate debt held across all creditors.
Junior Minister Hodge-Smith Highlights Activities for Culture and Tourism Month 2025 Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, has announced a dynamic lineup of activities for Culture and Tourism Month 2025, which is being observed under the theme “Rooted in Culture, Growing Through Tourism.”
Honourable Kye M. Rymer will lead a Virgin Islands delegation to Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 in Miami to promote the Territory as a top cruise destination. The team will focus on building partnerships, sustainability, and enhancing visitor experiences.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro, emphasized that the ‘Meet the Minister’ Initiative, launched in 2022, is a purposeful effort to build strong relationships and transform the education system in the Virgin Islands. Speaking at the House of Assembly, she highlighted how the programme has improved the ministry’s insight into critical needs, guided policy-making, and strengthened support for teachers and schools. Rejecting the notion that it is merely a public relations effort, de Castro reaffirmed the importance of collaboration across all education stakeholders. She confirmed the initiative’s continuation into the next school year, aiming to create a resilient and inclusive education system that empowers teachers and ensures every student’s success.
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley highlighted the Solar Technology Energy Programme (S.T.E.P.) as a key initiative for sustainable energy in the Virgin Islands. The program, led by the Ministry of Communications and Works, installs solar panels and inverters to reduce energy costs by up to 50% for participants. The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) covers all upfront costs, and customers can earn credits for excess energy sold back to the grid. Minister Kye M. Rymer emphasized the government's commitment to sustainable energy, investing $1 million in the initiative. Future phases will explore additional solar technologies.
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) launched its summer marketing campaign in Puerto Rico with a BVI Full Moon Party on April 12 at Vivo Beach Club, Carolina. The event attracted over 800 guests and featured cultural performances, BVI-inspired cuisine, and travel raffles, promoting the BVI as an ideal summer destination. Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley highlighted the BVI’s hospitality and invited attendees to future events, including “Xmas in July” in Virgin Gorda. The campaign aims to boost tourism from Puerto Rico, emphasizing the BVI’s unique offerings and global travel accolades.
Crime in the Virgin Islands has risen by 13 percent over the past year, based on a comparison of the period from January to July, according to Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mr. Kenrick Davis, who confirmed that gun violence remains a major concern, but domestic violence is the leading contributor to the overall increase in reported crimes.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports advises the public that the 2025–2026 academic year will officially commence as follows:
The Premier addressed the public regarding a vehicular accident at Hodges Creek, which resulted in at least one injury. A high-speed vehicle veered off the road, nearly missing road workers. The Premier emphasized the importance of safe driving, particularly near construction zones, and urged motorists to follow speed limits and remain vigilant. He thanked road workers and emergency services, wished the injured a swift recovery, and called for responsible driving to prevent future incidents.