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A Model For Unity: CARICOM’s Regional Cooperation Shines In The Caribbean
CARICOM: A Beacon Of Regional Unity And Cooperation In The Caribbean
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has been a cornerstone of regional cooperation and integration in the Caribbean for over four decades. As the Region faces an increasingly complex and challenging global landscape, CARICOM’s role in fostering a more integrated, prosperous, and secure Caribbean has never been more critical.
The 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, held in St. George’s, Grenada, from July 28-30, was a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to deepening integration and advancing the interests of its member states. The meeting was marked by several significant milestones, including the admission of Curaçao as the sixth Associate Member, the conferral of the Order of the Caribbean Community on two regional icons, and robust discussions on critical regional issues.
The formal admission of Curaçao as an Associate Member marked a new chapter in regional cooperation. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas expressed his country’s commitment to contributing to and benefiting from CARICOM membership, highlighting the potential for enhanced economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and collective action on regional challenges.
“Curaçao is proud to join the CARICOM family and contribute to the Region’s development,” Prime Minister Pisas said. “We believe that our membership will strengthen ties between our countries and foster greater cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, and education.”
The conferral of the Order of the Caribbean Community on Sir Clive Lloyd and former CARICOM Secretary-General, the Honourable Roderick Rainford, OJ, was a poignant reminder of the Region’s rich legacy of achievement. Their contributions to West Indies cricket and regional integration, respectively, serve as inspirations to future generations of Caribbean leaders.
“Sir Clive Lloyd and Ambassador Rainford are shining examples of the Caribbean’s potential for excellence,” CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, said. “Their dedication, passion, and commitment to the Region’s development are an inspiration to us all.”
Chairman of the Conference, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, sounded a clarion call to action on climate change, emphasizing the devastating impact of this global phenomenon on the Region. As CARICOM continues to
The Caribbean Community is a beacon of hope for a resilient Caribbean,” Dr. Barnett said. “We will continue to work together to address the challenges we face, seize opportunities for growth and development, and build a brighter future for our Region
advocate for climate justice, its member states remain resolute in their commitment to reducing carbon emissions, promoting sustainable development, and building resilience in the face of uncertainty.
“Climate change is a pressing issue that requires collective action and cooperation,” Prime Minister Mitchell said. “We must work together to address this global challenge and ensure a sustainable future for our Region.”
CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, highlighted the significant role of CARICOM institutions in deepening integration, citing the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s (CDEMA) efforts in relief and recovery as an example. As the Region continues to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, its institutions remain critical to fostering cooperation, promoting economic growth, and advancing the interests of its member states.
“Our institutions are the backbone of our integration process,” Dr. Barnett said. “They provide the framework for cooperation, facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices, and support the implementation of regional policies and programs.”
Outgoing Chair, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, reflected on CARICOM’s accomplishments, including improvements in food and nutrition security, advancements in restoring peaceful governance in Haiti, and efforts to revitalize West Indies cricket. His tenure was marked by a renewed focus on regional cooperation, economic integration, and collective action on regional challenges.
“I am proud of the progress we have made in advancing the Region’s interests,” President Ali said. “We have demonstrated our commitment to cooperation, our resilience in the face of adversity, and our determination to build a better future for our citizens.”
As CARICOM looks to the future, its commitment to fostering a more integrated, prosperous, and secure Caribbean remains unwavering. The 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government was a testament to the organization’s resolve to deepen regional cooperation, promote economic growth, and advance the interests of its member states.
“The Caribbean Community is a beacon of hope for a resilient Caribbean,” Dr. Barnett said. “We will continue to work together to address the challenges we face, seize opportunities for growth and development, and build a brighter future for our Region.”
Welcome to the 32nd edition of Diaspora Watch, your premier source of news, insights, and analysis on the global diaspora community. In this edition, we delve into the most pressing issues affecting diaspora communities worldwide, from politics and economics to social justice and culture.
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Our cover headlines are as diverse as they are impactful. We examine Nigeria’s lavish military retirement perks, which have raised eyebrows and ire among citizens. We also report on the devastating earthquake that struck Tibet, killing at least 95 people and injuring 130 others.
In the world of politics, we cover President Biden’s honoring of 19 exceptional individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, as well as Austria’s precarious political situation as coalition talks collapse.
In addition, we celebrate the achievements of outstanding individuals, including Abbie Stockard, the newly crowned Miss America 2025, and Demi Moore, who won her first Golden Globe Award for her role in “The Substance.” We also report on Microsoft’s record $80 billion investment in AI infrastructure and CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley’s ambitious agenda for 2025.
Other notable stories in this edition include the massive fire that destroyed Kantamanto Market in Ghana, affecting over 30,000 traders, and Nigeria’s travel advisory for citizens traveling to Australia.
We also profile Nigeria-born Derek Obialo, who was sworn in as Associate Judge of the 240th District Court in Texas.
As always, Diaspora Watch is committed to providing you with the most comprehensive and engaging coverage of the global diaspora community. We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to your feedback.
Dignitaries, Chiefs, Others In Attendance As PCNI Austin Branch Celebrates End of Year Party In Texas
It was a night of glamour and excitement as the Austin Branch of the People’s Club of Nigeria International (PCNI) held its end of year party on Saturday, November 30, 2024.Diaspora Watch reports that the well-attended event, which took place at Wingate by Wyndham Round Rock Hotel and Conference Center, Texas, was a celebration of the branch’s achievements and a show of appreciation to God for His blessings throughout the year.
In his address, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, the Action Chairman of PCNI Austin Branch who doubles as Akudo 1 of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom welcomed guests and appreciated the presence of dignitaries from various branches of the club.
The event was also graced by the presence of Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro, Hon. Patron Chief Dr. Don Ibekwe, Ulu Nimo from Galveston Branch, Patron, Chief Dr. Onyekachi Okoro, Patron-Elect, First National PCNI Vice President Emeritus, Chairman Emeritus, Secretary Emeritus Dallas Branch and the Sponsoring Chairman of our awesome Austin Branch, Assistant National Secretary Hon. Emmanuel Onwukamuche, Secretary Emeritus, First International Branch Houston, High Chief Humphrey Enyioha, Ikoroukwu Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Bright Nwokocha, Ugwumba, Chairman Emeritus, First International Branch – Houston, Hon. Nze Dr. Bon Ikwuagwu, Omekaozuo, Chairman 1st International Branch Houston, Hon. Ichie High Chief Sir Dr. Peter I. Okafor, Agbawodike Izu, Chairman Emeritus Dallas, Hon. Chief Chris Ogbuehi, Chairman-Elect – Dallas, Hon. Prince Ike Ginigeme, Founding Chairman Waco Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe – Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe, Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, and Hon. Chief Clara Obidike-Egbim, Okwuru Okarisia 1 of Ebikoro Kingdom, Anyanwu Nwanneka – Founding Chairman of People’s Club of Nigeria- Gainesville Branch and PA to PCNI International President.
Other dignitaries included the President General of Enyimba, Honorable Ubabuike, UBA, Chief Martin Osuji, president Coal City, Chief Francis Odu, president Enyimba Austin, and Chief Fred Ojiyi, President IPC, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, Akudo 1 Of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom, Action Chairman PCNI Austin Branch, First Lady, Lolo Rachel Lemchi, Kpakpandudiya, Adakekeocha and Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro.
To promote cybersecurity education and awareness, Excel TeKay LLC has announced the release of two critical books, “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim,” written by renowned cybersecurity expert Kimma Wreh. Now available on Amazon in paperback and hardcover, these books aim to equip readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and protect themselves in today’s digital world.
Diaspora Watch reports that “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” is a comprehensive resource that simplifies complex cybersecurity topics, offering step-by-step guidance for individuals, families, and small businesses. Readers will learn practical tips for creating strong passwords, enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), managing IoT devices, and defending against threats like malware and phishing.
The book also explores mobile security, incident response, and pathways for pursuing cybersecurity careers, making it an accessible resource for anyone seeking to improve their digital safety. Wreh’s expertise and experience in the field shine through in this book, pro-viding readers with a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles.
In “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim”, Wreh exposes common online scams, including phishing, romance fraud, and malware attacks. Using real-world examples, including her personal experiences, she equips readers with tools to detect red flags, protect sensitive in-formation, and recover from breaches.
Highlighting the staggering $10 billion lost to cyber scams in 2023, Wreh provides actionable strategies to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals in today’s digital landscape. Her expertise and in-sights in this book are in-valuable, helping readers to develop a deeper under-standing of the tactics used by cyber scammers and how to protect themselves.
Kimma Wreh, a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), draws on over 15 years of expertise in cybersecurity and digital literacy. She is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of Excel Global Media Group Inc. and a Principal Consultant at Excel TeKay LLC.
“I want readers to feel confident about their digital safety and see cybersecurity as something they can master,” said Wreh. Her passion for empowering individuals and businesses to take control of their digital safety is evident throughout both books.
Both “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim” are available now on Amazon.
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Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
