AGP Executive Report

Independence Countdown: Prime Minister Mia Mottley has kicked off Barbados’ 60th anniversary celebrations, declaring every Friday “Barbados Day” through November 30, with a packed programme including clean-ups, orations, a national concert, and the reopening of the Richard Stoute Amphitheatre. Youth & Community: Mottley also urged adults to take a more active role in mentoring young people, saying programmes alone can’t solve youth challenges. Labour & Enforcement: Barbados Workers’ Union President General Shawn Knight says the country needs stronger law enforcement, not more labour laws, and highlighted the new Portable Social Security Benefits Resolution. Customs Reform: Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says new Customs regulations will roll out by October, tied to updated procedures and technology following a new Customs Act passed in 2021. Public Procurement Skills: The Caribbean Development Bank is offering two fully funded public procurement scholarships in Italy for 2026/27, aimed at strengthening accountability and value for money. Regional Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago’s Sean Sobers’ meeting with Venezuela’s Félix Plasencia signals possible thawing ties, with calls for measured public messaging from T&T’s prime minister. Health Update (Region): St Kitts and Nevis PM Terrance Drew’s stroke treatment in Martinique is reported as stabilised, with further checks underway in Miami.

Customs Modernisation: Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says new Customs regulations and standard operating procedures will come into effect by October, updating how the department uses technology and communicates with the public. Independence Countdown: PM Mia Amor Mottley kicks off Barbados’ 60th anniversary celebrations, declaring every Friday “Barbados Day” through November 30, with clean-ups, student orations, concerts, and major Independence events including the Newton Slave Memorial reopening. Reparations Agenda: Barbados will host the third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations, Sept 17–19 at Sam Lord’s Castle, focused on implementing the revised Ten-Point Plan and advancing reparatory justice discussions regionally and globally. Local Governance & Transport: A cashless bus pilot for public service vehicles is set to begin in 2–3 weeks, starting with eight vehicles and automated fare tech on key routes. Business Financing: Economist Winston Moore urges more use of equity financing for entrepreneurs, arguing Barbados needs a stronger conversation on cost of capital beyond loans. Regional Health Politics: Reports from St Kitts and Nevis say PM Terrance Drew suffered a stroke, treated in Martinique and now in Miami for further checks. Sports (CPL): St Kitts and Nevis Patriots beat Barbados Tridents by six wickets after Quinton de Kock’s 106, keeping playoff pressure on the Tridents.

CPL Cricket: St Kitts and Nevis Patriots beat Barbados Tridents by 6 wickets in Basseterre, with Johnson Charles striking 78 and Quinton de Kock replying with 106 in a losing cause—Tridents now sit bottom after a third straight defeat. Public Transport Modernisation: A digital, cashless fare pilot for public service vehicles is set to start in the next 2–3 weeks, aiming to cut paper tickets and fare fraud on key routes. Reparations Agenda: Barbados will host the third CARICOM Regional Conference on Reparations (Sept 17–19) at Sam Lord’s Castle, focused on “Reparatory Justice as the Coming Enlightenment” and practical steps for the revised Ten-Point Plan. Judicial Reform: Attorneys welcome virtual hearings in two Magistrates’ Courts but want safeguards and continued in-person access for accused persons. Energy Costs Watch: Barbados’ energy transition may raise electricity costs in the interim as the country pushes for 50% renewables by end-2027, alongside battery storage and grid upgrades. Regional Development: CDB launches CEvalSpace in Barbados to help Caribbean countries build monitoring and evaluation systems that fit small-island realities. Party Politics: The DLP’s newly elected general secretary, Corey Greenidge, says the party is reaching out to former members to unify after the 2024 “locked out” incident and recent election losses. Appointments: World Bank names Judith Green as Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean States, effective Sept 1.

World Bank Leadership: Judith Green, a Jamaican national, has been appointed Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean States, based in Barbados and covering IBRD, IFC and MIGA from Sept. 1, with a focus on jobs and sustainable development. Judicial Modernisation: Lawyers broadly welcome virtual hearings in Magistrates’ Courts to cut delays and costs, but want in-person access and stronger safeguards for accused persons. Energy Costs & Transition: Barbados’ energy transition could raise electricity costs in the interim, says Stephen Worme, as Government pushes battery storage, grid modernisation and regulatory reform toward 50% renewables by end-2027. Caribbean Policy Fit: Marsha Caddle warns against copying G20-style monitoring and evaluation frameworks, arguing small-island realities need Caribbean-built systems. Fisheries Reform: Fisheries authorities move toward making circle hooks mandatory for horizontal longline vessels in Barbadian waters, aiming to improve tuna catch and survival of released non-target species. Independence Build-Up: PM Mia Mottley declares every Friday for the next 90 days “Barbados Day” for the “60 and 5” Independence and Republic milestones, with national colours and community activities. Youth Pathways: The Chapman Challenge Initiative will launch Sept. 23, with a first cohort of young people and a call for Barbadians to sign up as trained mentors.

Venezuela Oil Push: Chevron says it will expand in Venezuela, with U.S. officials pointing to a Wednesday visit tied to Trump’s Venezuela oil deal and NABEP’s 65 billion-barrel prize—an arrangement analysts question over legal authority and long-term production timelines. Independence Build-Up: Prime Minister Mia Mottley declares every Friday “Barbados Day” for the next 90 days as the country gears up for “60 and 5” (60 years of Independence and five years as a Republic), with flags, colours, clean-ups and a new logo. Food Security at Home: Government relaunches Project CARE as a long-term household resilience drive, targeting about 600 families with livestock and crop support plus training at Deacons Farm and beyond. Fisheries Rules: Fisheries authorities move to make circle hooks mandatory for horizontal longline vessels in Barbadian waters, aiming to improve tuna catches and survival of released species. Regional Governance: World Bank appoints Judith Green as Country Manager for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean States, while UN launches a disability-inclusive employment push across the Caribbean. Airlift Watch: Caribbean Airlines ends direct Tobago–Barbados service, raising concerns about a regional capacity gap as other carriers say they’re monitoring demand.

DLP Leadership Shake-Up: Dr David Estwick has been elected Democratic Labour Party president, pledging to rebuild the party as a “government-in-waiting,” while Senator Ryan Walters says his focus will be opposition voice work in the Senate. Party Unity Pressure: A day earlier, Reverend Canon Dr Monrelle Williams urged DLP supporters to confront internal divisions, practice humility, and rebuild public trust. Governance & Democracy: Prime Minister Andrew Holness told a Commonwealth parliamentary conference that technology must serve democracy—not replace human judgement or dignity. Health & Public Service: St Kitts and Nevis PM Terrance Drew is hospitalized and preparing for overseas medical transport; Dr Geoffrey Hanley will act as PM. Agriculture Pathways: Minister Sandra Husbands says Barbados must rethink technical and vocational education, while Dr Shantal Munro-Knight announced land offers for Hope Agricultural Training Institute graduates and a tissue culture lab. Health Project Accountability: A grievance redress mechanism is planned for major health facilities under the Health Services Resilience Programme, including confidential routes for abuse and harassment complaints. Finance Watch: A Central Bank study says bank links to non-bank financial institutions aren’t a major systemic risk, but supervisors should monitor liquidity risk. Regional Development: CDB launched CEvalSpace 2026 to strengthen Caribbean evaluation and evidence-based policymaking. Women & Skills: NOW and Amplifi AI will train 35 women in free AI-based business building. Sports & Culture: Barbados bodybuilding team returned from Guatemala with three more gold medals; Barbados also eyes a pickleball partnership to expand road tennis internationally.

DLP Leadership Shake-Up: Dr David Estwick has been elected president of the Democratic Labour Party, pledging to rebuild the party into a “government-in-waiting,” while Senator Ryan Walters says his focus is now opposition work in the Senate. Party Strategy Debate: Analysts are split on whether the DLP’s new leadership signals renewal or a return to the “old guard” after another heavy defeat. Justice System Modernisation: Minister Michael Lashley says virtual court hearings via Zoom will roll out in Magistrates’ Courts from September, aiming to cut delays and transport costs. Crime Prevention Focus: Lashley also pushed for community development alongside policing to tackle gun crime and youth vulnerability. Energy & Foreign Policy: Barbados and Venezuela move to deepen cooperation, including energy and trade initiatives, as regional attention grows on major Venezuela oil developments. Bilateral Diplomacy: PM Mottley paid tribute to Sir Stephen Emtage, while the week also featured broader Commonwealth and UNGA 2026 context. Sports & Culture (Local Angle): Government is exploring a pickleball partnership tied to road tennis, and Barbados’ cricket and football coverage continues to feed public conversation. Regional Security Cooperation: WCO’s Project BOLT wraps up, highlighting strengthened customs enforcement against guns and narcotics across the Caribbean.

Passing of a key public servant: Sir Stephen Emtage, Barbados’ first director of Finance and Planning and a long-serving figure in the Barrow era, has died at 88. Justice modernisation: Minister Michael Lashley says Zoom virtual hearings will roll out from the second week of September at two Magistrates’ Courts to ease pressure and cut transport and remand burdens. Crime and community focus: Lashley also told a Christ Church East meeting that legislation and policing alone won’t stop crime—young people and community development must be central. Opposition politics: Senator Ryan Walters says his focus is on serving in the Senate for the DLP after again declining an executive role at the party’s annual conference. DLP leadership change: Dr David Estwick was elected DLP president, defeating Stephen Lashley, with a slate of new officers named. Labour rights push: BWU leaders warn that labour shortages can’t be used to justify importing cheap labour, calling for tighter work-permit scrutiny and stronger enforcement. Regional security capacity: WCO’s Project BOLT ends after boosting Caribbean customs frontline skills against weapons and narcotics, with Barbados hosting the project’s second phase. Youth mentoring drive: The President’s Trust launches a national call for volunteer mentors ahead of the Chapman Challenge starting September 23. Sports data and planning: Barbados launches a locally developed sports data analytics initiative to improve how performance information is collected and used. CPL context: With playoffs in view, the St Lucia Kings sit top while Barbados Tridents’ form remains under pressure.

DLP Leadership: Dr David Estwick has been elected Democratic Labour Party president, beating Stephen Lashley 217–136, with a pledge to unite factions and use party talent to rebuild momentum. Labour Rights: Barbados Workers’ Union leaders are calling for tighter enforcement of labour standards and stricter scrutiny of work permits, after interventions into migrant workers’ “subpar conditions” and housing and contract irregularities. Youth Mentoring: The President’s Trust is recruiting 84 volunteer mentors for the Chapman Challenge, a 10–24 leadership programme launching Sept 23. Justice/Corruption Case: Ingrid Innes, former ICBL CEO, is set to plead guilty in a US federal court over a bribery and money-laundering matter tied to former minister Donville Inniss, with probation/supervised release being sought. Sports Data & Facilities: A new locally developed sports data analytics initiative is rolling out to improve how performance information is collected and used, while the National Sports Centre’s Flora Duffy Stadium grandstand repairs will pause international hosting for months. CPL Focus: Sunil Narine’s all-round dominance powered Trinbago Knight Riders’ seven-wicket win over the Barbados Tridents, keeping the playoff race tight.

CPL Playoff Push: St. Lucia Kings lead the 2026 Republic Bank CPL with 8 points from 4 wins, but Jamaica Kingsmen and Antigua Falcons are also on 8—setting up a tight race as teams chase net run-rate edges. Labour Rights: Barbados Workers’ Union leaders are calling for tougher enforcement of labour standards and tighter scrutiny of work permits, warning labour shortages can’t be used to justify importing cheap labour or subpar conditions. Courtroom Hardship: Several theft cases before Barbados’ courts feature defendants citing hunger and financial hardship—prompting renewed debate over desperation versus accountability. Dental Diplomacy: Oral surgeon Dr William Duguid says a formal Barbados–Venezuela oral health partnership is “on the cards” after a volunteer mission treated 75+ patients in earthquake-affected areas. Youth Leadership: President’s Trust is recruiting volunteer mentors for the Chapman Challenge, aiming to guide young people aged 10–24. Sports Tech: A new locally developed sports data analytics initiative is being rolled out to help athletes and organisations make more informed decisions. Heritage & Community: Work continues on Barbados’ Newton Slave Burial Ground for a November opening, while Long Pond in St Andrew faces renewed calls for stronger protection and visitor controls.

Labour Rights Push: BWU president general Shawn Knight says labour laws must be enforced with real consequences, calling for a fully staffed and empowered Labour Department as the union heads toward its 85th anniversary. Back-to-School Hardship: In St Mary, Baxter’s Mountain Primary families face dangerous river crossings and damaged school infrastructure ahead of the September 7 term start. CPL Shockwaves: Trinbago Knight Riders beat the Barbados Tridents by seven wickets at Queen’s Park Oval, with Sunil Narine starring both with bat (55) and ball (2/14). Cost-of-Living Pressure: Bridgetown retailers report rising import, freight and customs costs are forcing higher prices just as families seek back-to-school help. Youth Opportunity Plan: A St Andrew advocate urges a single national youth framework (and one online portal) so young people can actually find and navigate government programmes. Heritage & Culture: Barbados marks Jackie Opel’s legacy with calls to revive spouge and a plan to revitalise the Jackie Opel Amphitheatre as a living venue for youth and culture. Local Environment Watch: St Andrew residents renew calls to tighten protection of Long Pond as off-road vehicles, litter and weak visitor controls threaten the beach and wetland.

Barbados Politics & Governance: The Democratic Labour Party is holding a make-or-break conference this weekend, with delegates choosing between former cabinet ministers Dr David Estwick and Stephen Lashley to lead the party’s recovery after three straight 30-0 election defeats. Justice & Public Policy: Saint Kitts and Nevis has begun Phase II of its Criminal Mediation Training Programme, building capacity for restorative and alternative justice ahead of a forthcoming Restorative Justice Bill. Heritage & Culture: Barbados’ Pan-African Affairs and Heritage Minister Trevor Prescod says the Newton Slave Burial Ground is on track for a grand opening in November, while the Jackie Opel Amphitheatre is set for revitalisation into a regular culture and youth venue. Youth & Opportunity: A St Andrew youth advocate is pushing for a single national youth opportunity framework (and online portal) to reduce fragmented programmes and help young people navigate next steps. Local Environment: St Andrew residents and advocates are renewing calls to tighten protection of Long Pond, warning off-road vehicles, litter and weak visitor controls are harming the beach and wetland. Sports & Community: A locally developed sports data analytics initiative has been launched to improve how sporting information is collected and used, with training underway for home-grown expertise. Regional Watch: The CCJ in Trinidad moved to address panel-fixing allegations by requiring all judges to sit on all panels unless formally excused.

DLP Leadership Race: The Democratic Labour Party holds a pivotal run-off for party presidency on Saturday, with Dr David Estwick and Stephen Lashley vying to lead the party after three straight 30-0 election defeats since 2018. Heritage & Culture: Pan-African Affairs and Heritage Minister Trevor Prescod marked Jackie Opel’s 89th birthday by calling for a national revival of spouge, while the Jackie Opel Amphitheatre at the GPO is set for revitalisation as a regular youth and community culture venue. Local Infrastructure: Residents in Six Men’s and Shermans renew urgent calls for repairs, citing hazardous roads, dust from a nearby construction site, and unresolved coastal damage after Hurricane Beryl. Health Services: Barbados’ new Geriatric Hospital is on track to open Phase I by late 2026, with Phase II eventually taking total capacity to 570 beds. Cost of Living & Trade: The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry pushes a “price compact” and alternative supply routes, aiming to cut imported food costs by at least 25%, while also urging changes to how taxes and duties are calculated on imports. Customs Modernisation: Government is working on a digital link for the $500 annual duty-free allowance to travellers’ passports as part of Customs upgrades. CPL Barbados Angle: Flow’s “Every Six Gives Back” will support Barbados Tridents cricket gear for local clubs, and Barbados Tridents’ CPL campaign continues to draw attention as the league table tightens.

Caribbean Court of Justice Panel Reform: The CCJ moved to quell panel-fixing allegations by saying all seven judges will sit on all panels going forward, unless formally excused. Customs Modernisation: Barbados is working on a digital link for the $500 annual duty-free allowance to a traveller’s passport, alongside new airport baggage-tagging tech. Cost of Living Push: The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pressing Government on a “price compact” and tax/duty calculation changes, while also exploring alternate overseas supply routes to cut food costs. Geriatric Hospital Expansion: Phase I of the new Waterford Geriatric Hospital is expected to open in late 2026 with 300 beds, with Phase II adding 270 more. Faith-Based Youth Grants: Ten faith organisations have received the first disbursements under a $5m grant programme for youth development. Transport Authority Overhaul: A new 12-member Transport Authority board is set to focus on road order, congestion reduction, and safer public transport. CPL Barbados Angle: Barbados Tridents sit mid-table in CPL 2026 as sponsorship and match results keep the spotlight on local cricket.

Electricity Costs & Energy Transition: Former BL&P CEO Stephen Worme warns Barbados’ renewable push could raise short-term power bills as the grid needs extra investment to keep reliability. Cost of Living & Trade Policy: The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) is pitching changes to how taxes and duties are calculated on imports, plus new supply routes, to cut consumer prices. Health Infrastructure: Barbados’ new Geriatric Hospital is set to open in phases, eventually reaching 570 beds (300 in Phase I, 270 later). Youth & Faith-Based Support: Ten faith groups receive the first awards under a $5m government grant for youth development programmes. Transport Governance: A new 12-member Transport Authority board is sworn in, tasked with easing congestion and improving public transport safety and reliability. Public Safety & Compliance: Customs says it has found misuse of goods imported under government concessions, urging better compliance. Regional/International Watch: King Charles III announces an autumn Caribbean tour (Bahamas, Guyana, Antigua), while Tropical Storm Dolly is monitored with no current Barbados watches or warnings.

Royal Diplomacy: Buckingham Palace confirms King Charles and Queen Camilla will tour the Caribbean from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4, starting in the Bahamas, then Guyana for 60 years of UK-Guyana ties, and ending in Antigua for CHOGM. Local Governance & Water Oversight: PM Mia Mottley addresses the Suarez Brothers Circus controversy, saying Botanical Gardens approval was wrong without consultation with the Barbados Water Authority, while stressing the wider checks-and-balances still worked. Parliament & Health: Deputy PM St. Clair Leacock told Parliament he sought urgent overseas treatment after a deterioration in his eyesight. Customs & Security: Barbados Customs seized guns, ammunition, drugs and other contraband in border operations, warning smugglers are using every route. Education Policy: The Barbados Union of Teachers awaits details on proposed changes to school assistants’ hours tied to the breakfast programme starting Sept. 7. Energy & Agriculture: Government eyes a Sept. 15 tariff ruling for the $350m Harrow hybrid energy plant, while Agriculture Minister Munro-Knight pushes expanded purchase agreements to boost farmers’ exports. Transport: Caribbean Airlines will discontinue direct Trinidad/Tobago–Barbados flights from Sept. 2.