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CARICOM Heads of Government Unite in Grenada to address Regional Challenges
The 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held in St. George’s, Grenada, from July 28-30, 2024. The meeting brought together leaders from across the region to address pressing issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and regional security. Heads of Government emphasized the urgent need for high-level political advocacy to address climate change.
They agreed to deliver a unified statement at COP29 and convene a Donor’s Conference to address the Region’s vulnerability to climate change. The Conference agreed to establish a CARICOM Digital Skills Training and Learning Network and launch the Digi-Smart CARICOM Digital Skills Initiative in 2024. This aims to enhance regional digital resilience and promote economic growth. Heads of Government noted improvements in airlift to, from, and within the Region, including the operationalization of LIAT 2020.
They agreed to host a Regional Symposium on Air Transport in Barbados by the first quarter of 2025. The Conference expressed concern about high levels of crime and violence, fueled by firearms and ammunition trafficking, transnational criminal networks, and social structure deterioration. They committed to ongoing urgent action to protect citizens and preserve public interest. The Partnership aims to address pressing health challenges, including health-related issues of the climate crisis.
Read also : CARICOM Ministers Boost Food Security & Climate Action at Caribbean Week of Agriculture
Member States are invited to partner with HeDPAC to leverage sustainable health development and capacity building. Heads of Government received updates on the Belize-Guatemala and Guyana-Venezuela border issues. They called for peaceful resolution and respect for territorial integrity. The Conference welcomed the report by the President of the newly established Transitional Presidential Council and recognized the appointment of a Prime Minister and new Cabinet. They expressed concern at the dire humanitarian situation and reiterated commitment to support Haiti.
Heads of Government registered concern at the growing humanitarian crisis in Cuba occasioned by the ongoing embargo issued by the United States of America. They issued a Statement of solidarity with Cuba. The Conference expressed appreciation to Dr. Joy St. John, outgoing Executive Director of CARPHA, and Assistant Secretary-General Economic Integration, Innovation, and Development, Mr. Joseph Cox.
Heads of Government accept-ed the invitation of Barbados to host the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference from February 20-21, 2025. This meeting demonstrated the commitment of CARICOM leaders to address regional challenges and promote sustainable development, economic growth, and social resilience.
Late Afrobeat Pioneer, Fela Earns Historic Global Recognition.
Late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has been inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first Nigerian artist to receive the honor.
Naija News reports that the announcement marks another major global recognition for the iconic musician, decades after his passing.
Fela was inducted under the “Early Influence” category, alongside renowned global music figures such as Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.
The list of inductees was unveiled in the United States during a live broadcast of the popular television show, American Idol.
Also recognized is Nigerian-born British singer, Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the “Performer” category.
She joins a lineup of global stars including Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Despite stiff competition, several high-profile nominees failed to make the final list. These include Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink.
Organizers disclosed that over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fela’s latest recognition comes just months after he made history in January as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The honor, coming nearly 30 years after his death, further cements his legacy as a global music icon and pioneer of Afrobeat.
It also follows the introduction of the Best African Performance category at the Grammy Awards two years ago, reflecting growing global recognition for African music.
Rihanna to Receive Edison Achievement Award for “Reshaping the World Through Innovation”
The Edison Achievement Awards ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually.
Rihanna is being singled out for her innovative skills.
The superstar singer and entrepreneur has been selected to receive an Edison Achievement Award, an honor doled out to recognize “individuals who are reshaping industries and the world through innovation.” The award is presented each year to groundbreakers “whose extraordinary contributions transcend expectations advancing human-centered design, accelerating meaningful change and redefining what’s possible within their fields.” Winners are plucked by a steering committee that zeroes in on recipients based on biography, impact and visionary practices.
The award ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually. Also set to be honored that night will be National Basketball Association commissioner Adam Silver.
“Rihanna has consistently pushed boundaries across music, beauty, fashion and philanthropy while setting new standards for creativity, inclusivity, and global influence,” said Frank Bonafilia, Edison Awards executive director. “She embodies the spirit of Thomas Edison, by using inclusive innovation as a catalyst for progress. We are honored to recognize her with this year’s award.”
In announcing the news, the Edison team cited Rihanna’s achievements in transforming the beauty industry with the launch of Fenty Beauty, hailed for its inclusive standards with the range of products, and building on that foundation and vision with an expansion that includes Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair and Savage X Fenty fashion line. In addition to her accomplishments in music, she also founded the Clara Lionel Foundation to give back.
Australia Gets Its First Female Army Chief, Susan Coyle.
Susan Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Australia will get its first female chief of army, with the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle to the post. Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the appointments of new military chiefs on Monday, ahead of the government unveiling its 2026 statement on defense strategy and investment later this week. The appointments commence in July.
The current Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will become the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston.
Hammond has commanded submarines and the Australian fleet. He has been the Chief of the Navy since 2022. As the second naval officer in a row to serve as chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), his expertise is particularly relevant as Australia deals with the AUKUS agreement.
Coyle, who enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1987, has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles. These include the commander of the Task Group Afghanistan and the commanding officer of the 17th Signal Regiment. She replaces Lieutenant General Stuart as Army Chief.
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