22 October 2025 Diplomatic Leaders Honoured for Distinguished Service to the Virgin Islands (Territory Observes Diplomatic Week 2025) Twelve past and present diplomatic leaders were formally recognised during a gala ceremony held at Scrub Island Resort on Tuesday 21 October 2025, as the International Affairs Secretariat, Premier’s Office, officially launched Diplomatic Week 2025, under the theme “From Island Shores to Global Doors”.
The Premier’s Office has successfully hosted a meeting bringing together farmers, fishers, and key stakeholders to develop a shared vision for the future growth and sustainability of the industry.
Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, reaffirmed the Virgin Islands’ strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and international financial standards following the visit of the UK’s Anti-Corruption Champion, Baroness Margaret Hodge, from 23–24 September 2025.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports have honoured retired educators from the 1960s and 1970s during the inaugural Living Legends Luncheon. The event held on March 30 at The Moorings formed part of the closing activities for Education Month 2026 and paid tribute to educators whose decades of service helped shape the foundation of the modern Virgin Islands education system.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development through the Office of Gender Affairs convened a stakeholder consultation to review and identify proposed amendments to the Domestic Violence Act (2011) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen protections for victims and survivors of domestic violence in the Virgin Islands.
Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister of Culture and Tourism, launched the Road Town Partnership on April 4, 2025, emphasizing the importance of a clean and beautiful capital for tourism, public health, and community pride. She called for collective responsibility and public involvement, highlighting that maintaining Road Town's appearance is a shared duty. The initiative brings together government, private sector, and community stakeholders to enhance the capital and create a lasting positive impact.
Sixty-nine individuals have officially become British Citizens after previously being Naturalised as British Overseas Territories Citizens. The new citizens took the Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and the Pledge of Loyalty to the United Kingdom during a ceremony held on May 6 at Government House. His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce and Registrar General Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro offered congratulations, highlighting the strong historical, legal, and cultural ties between the Virgin Islands and the UK. Mrs. O’Flaherty-Maduro emphasized that citizenship is a meaningful personal journey that reflects a commitment to democratic values and societal integration. This registration follows provisions of the British Nationality Act, allowing eligible individuals to apply for British Citizenship.
The Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is reassessing the West End Ferry Terminal project due to bids significantly exceeding the $15 million budget, with proposals of $64 million and $94 million. The RDA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Works and BVI Ports Authority, will review the project's requirements and consider value engineering and a potential reduction in scope. A further update will be provided within the next week. The RDA is committed to ensuring a financially sustainable and competitive approach while maintaining high-quality outcomes.
Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer led a delegation to Anegada where he was updated on the island’s Renewable Energy Project as the Government of the Virgin Islands continues to implement renewable energy solutions.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is proud to announce the participation of a 53-member delegation at the upcoming Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA). The delegation will be led by Premier, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, and Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, will join.