Invest Turks & Caicos Celebrates A Decade Of Innovation at 4th AGA Meeting
Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.
The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.
The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.
The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.
A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.
The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.
The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.
Two award categories were introduced:
Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.
Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.
Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.
Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.
CARICOM congratulates St Kitts Nevis on 42nd anniversary of political independence
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has extended congratulations to the Government and People of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis on the country’s 42nd anniversary of political independence, being celebrated on Friday.
In a message conveyed to Prime Minister Dr Terrance Michael Drew, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett commended the nation’s enduring commitment to progress and regional integration.
Reflecting on the anniversary theme, “Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future in View: Independence 42”, Barnett noted that it invites both celebration and reflection on the strides made since 1983, and underscores the importance of sustained efforts in achieving long-term development.
“Prime Minister, the Community values the significant contributions of St. Kitts and Nevis to the regional integration movement and appreciates, in particular, your efforts on regional initiatives in Human Resource Development, Health, and HIV/AIDS, under your leadership role in the Quasi-Cabinet of Heads of Government of CARICOM. We also note your critical role in co-chairing the Second Africa-CARICOM Summit on 7 September 2025, as the incoming Chair of the Conference of Heads of Government.
Prime Minister, I extend best wishes to the Government and People of St. Kitts and Nevis, as you build on the legacy of resilience, and excellence to foster increased peace and prosperity,” the Secretary General said .
Source-CMC
The RTCIPF conducted a North & Middle Caicos Walkabout
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) conducted a community engagement exercise across North and Middle Caicos on Wednesday, 17th September 2025.
The initiative, led by Acting Assistant Superintendent Kirton Sutton, included support from Inspector Winston Diamond, Acting Inspector Sherina Lightbourne, Sergeant Odan Douglas and Constables D. Pordest, Hilary Hutchinson, and Estefani Diaz.
The walkthrough formed part of the RT&CIPF’s ongoing strategy to strengthen relationships with communities, enhance public safety, engage stakeholders, and address community concerns.
Residents welcomed the police presence and expressed support for more frequent patrols, particularly during weekends and evenings. They also raised concerns about poorly lit areas, speeding and the use of scooters by children.
Officers visited key establishments, including Alsada Hall Malcolm Primary Health Care, the District Commissioner’s Office (Middle Caicos), Doris Robinson Primary School, Raymond Gardiner High School, and Kew Farm.
At the schools, requests were made for increased police visibility and regular student engagement sessions on discipline and safety.
Traffic operations were also conducted across the islands, resulting in 18 vehicle checks. Motorists were educated on road safety laws, with stern warnings issued for minor infractions.
The RT&CIPF remains committed to community engagement, school partnerships, and road safety enforcement.
Passengers no longer required to remove laptops at Owen Roberts International Airport
The Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA), says passengers will no longer be required to remove laptops from their bags during security checks.
The authority said with support from the infrastructure ministry, it has deployed the first of three state-of-the-art baggage scanning machines at Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA).
This has been described as a major milestone in strengthening airport security and efficiency, thereby speeding up the process.
In collaboration with the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), all CIAA security personnel and partner agencies are undergoing comprehensive hands-on training to operate the advanced scanners, according to a press release from the ministry.
The remaining two scanners are expected to be fully operational at ORIA by the end of October.
“This cutting-edge technology streamlines the screening process by eliminating the need for passengers to remove laptops and other items from their bags, significantly reducing wait times and delivering a smoother travel experience,” the release said.
CIAA Chief Executive Officer Albert Anderson said the successful rollout of this first scanner represents a major milestone for the authority in modernisation and improving the passenger experience.
“This new technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with our commitment to safety, security, and world-class service,” he said.
Infrastructure Minister Jay Ebanks, who has responsibility for the airport, said, “This is a significant leap forward in improving our airport’s efficiency and enhancing the overall passenger experience. While this marks an important first step toward creating a more passenger-friendly environment, there is still a great deal of progress ahead.”
Chief Officer Eric Bush said, “We want every traveller, both local and international, to have the best possible experience at our airports. By making these enhancements, we’re not only streamlining the security process but also ensuring that Caymanian hospitality is matched by state-of-the-art technology.”
Source- CMC
Turks and Caicos Islands Observes Caribbean Wellness Week 2025
The Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit of the Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly observes Caribbean Wellness Week (CWW) from September 13–19, 2025, under the theme: “Engage, Empower, Elevate: Working Together to Improve Health and Well-being for All.”
Caribbean Wellness Week is a regional initiative dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and rallying communities against the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory conditions, and kidney disease. These illnesses are the leading cause of death in the Caribbean, accounting for more than 75% of all lives lost in the region.
The Caribbean faces some of the world’s highest diabetes rates, with nearly one in three adults also living with hypertension. Rising obesity, especially among children, combined with poor diets, inactivity, is fueling premature deaths and placing a heavy economic burden on the region, costing some countries up to 8% of GDP. The Turks and Caicos Islands reflect these challenges, with notable tobacco use and ongoing concerns about heart disease, underscoring the urgent need for prevention and healthier lifestyles.
This year, the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit is intensifying its efforts to empower individuals and communities through a week of activities that underscore the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Daily Themes and Activities
Mindful Monday – Stress management techniques to support mental health
Tasty Tuesday – Nutrition guidance, healthy recipes, and cooking demonstrations
Workout Wednesday – Fitness routines to energize the body
Talk it out Thursday – Advocating for an open conversation on mental health
Fruit & Flow Friday- Promotes increased consumption of fresh fruits and water for better hydration and overall well-being.
Special Events
Health Matters Radio Show – RTC Radio Station, September 15 at 10:00 AM
Senior Exercise Sessions – Sylvia Melhado Aged Care and Rehabilitation Department, Grand Turk, September 16and 18, 3:00–4:00 PM
Available both in-person and via Zoom to ensure accessibility for seniors across the islands.
Community Exercise Session – Ball Park, Downtown Providenciales, September 17 at 6:30 PM (in collaboration with the Sports Commission)
“We are facing a growing challenge of preventable diseases that are significantly reducing quality of life in our communities,” said the Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles. “Caribbean Wellness Week is an opportunity for us to engage actively, empower one another with knowledge, and elevate our collective well-being—paving the way toward a healthier, happier Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical Officer, added, “Caribbean Wellness Week is a powerful reminder that health is not just the absence of disease—it is the presence of vitality, resilience, and community support. By engaging in these activities, we not only promote healthier lifestyles but also strengthen prevention, early intervention, and our shared responsibility to tackle non-communicable diseases.”
Families, schools, workplaces, faith groups, and community organizations are encouraged to participate. Join the daily activities, share your wellness journey on social media, and help spark a movement toward better health for all.
Stay connected by following the Ministry’s social media pages for daily tips, updates, and opportunities to participate.
Vance confirms to ABC that Hamas has 20 living hostages, expected release on Monday
Vice President JD Vance confirmed to ABC This Week co-anchor George Stephanopoulos that Hamas has said they are holding 20 living hostages, and that those hostages are expected to be released in the next 24 hours as President Donald Trump was headed to the region later Sunday to mark the occasion.
"Well, they've been confirmed, George. Of course you don't know until you see these people alive. But thank God we expect to see them alive here in the next 24 hours, probably early tomorrow morning, U.S. time, which will be later in the day, of course, in Israel," Vance said.
"We are on the cusp of true peace in the Middle East. Really, for the first time in my lifetime, certainly these 20 hostages are going to come home to their families, George," Vance said. "I think this is a great moment for our country. Our country should be proud of our diplomats who made this happen."
"It's really a great moment for the world, too, which is why the president's going to go over there and celebrate with these hostages. But it's a great thing, and I'm very excited about it," he said.
Trump is scheduled to leave for his visit to Israel and Egypt on Sunday afternoon and will meet with hostage families at the Israeli Knesset on Monday.
The Wall Street Journal was the first to report Hamas’ confirmation of the 20 living hostages.
Source- ABC
TCI Weekend Forecast for September 12,2025
GENERAL SITUATION: A weak pressure pattern will maintain light to gentle winds across the islands, while moist tropical air and upper-level support will trigger showers and a few thunderstorms through tonight.
WEATHER: A mix of sun & clouds with a low (20 percent) chance of widely scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms this afternoon. Partly cloudy with a medium (40 percent) chance of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms tonight. New total rainfall accumulation of about a tenth of an inch.
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 knots or less
SEAS: 3 feet or less
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 90°F 32°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 80°F 26°C
HEAT INDEX 104°F 40°C
SUNSET: 6:54 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 12:44 PM (3.0 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 07:17 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The weak pressure pattern will keep winds light to gentle across the islands. Moist tropical air combined with upper-level support will bring periods of showers and a few thunderstorms through the weekend.
SATURDAY: A medium (40 percent) chance of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms in the morning, then isolated showers possible in the afternoon. A mix of sun & clouds, with a high near 91°F (33°C).
SATURDAY NIGHT: A medium (40 percent) chance of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms overnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 81°F (27°C). New total rainfall accumulation of about a half an inch.
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 knots or less, falling light and variable at times
SEAS: 3 feet or less
SUNRISE: 6:35 AM
SUNSET: 6:53 PM
HIGH TIDE: 12:50 AM (2.0 FT) 01:42 PM (3.0 FT)
LOW TIDE: 07:00 AM (0.3 FT) 08:20 PM (1.0 FT)
SUNDAY: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers and isolated thunderstorms in the morning, then isolated showers possible in the afternoon. A mix of sun & clouds, with a high near 92°F (33°C).
SUNDAY NIGHT: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers and isolated thunderstorms overnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 81°F (27°C). New total rainfall accumulation of less than a tenth of an inch.
WINDS: Southeast to south at 10 knots or less, falling light and variable at times
SEAS: 3 feet or less
SUNRISE: 6:35 AM
SUNSET: 6:52 PM
HIGH TIDE: 01:47 AM (2.0 FT) 02:46 PM (3.0 FT)
LOW TIDE: 07:56 AM (0.3 FT) 08:26 PM (1.0 FT)
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: A tropical wave located near the west coast of Africa is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms over the far eastern Atlantic. A tropical depression could form by the middle part of next week while over the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. This system has a low chance of formation over the next 2 days and a medium chance of formation over the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H.HAMILTON
Men charged with Attempted & Double Homicide
Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force’s Serious Crime Unit on September 11, Men charged with Attempted & Double Homicide charged ARCHLEY FORBES, 22, of Five Cays, Providenciales, with two counts of murder.
Forbes was charged with the murder of GUILENE JEAN-BAPTISTE, 26, of Dock Yard, who was shot and killed on August 2, 2023, and EREVIN GLINTON, 22, of Sand Bar Street, Five Cays, who was fatally shot on January 24, 2024.
Police responded to reports of gunfire on Reece Street, Five Cays, where Glinton’s body was discovered.
Forbes was charged at HM Prison – Department of Correction and Rehabilitation, where he is currently on remand awaiting trial for the October 10, 2024, murder of Evanson “Archie” Walkin, 28, who was shot dead in the Club Med area of Five Cays.
In a separate matter, officers also charged JEVANO ARTHUR, 22, with attempted murder.
Arthur is accused of attempting to murder DEMITRI GURRIER on October 10, 2024 and is currently on remand jointly charged with Forbes for the murder of Walkin.
Both men are expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on the next available court date.
TCI Red Cross Launches Basic Water Rescue Training
The MOH Commissions Two Ambulances for Grand Turk
The Ministry of Health and Human Services, through the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department, is proud to announce the commissioning of two brand-new ambulances on the island of Grand Turk.
Speaking at the event, the Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, emphasized that “these ambulances are for the people of Grand Turk, ensuring that help will always be close by.” He further underscored that the Government remains committed to investing in healthcare infrastructure and in the wellbeing of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The introduction of these modern, fully equipped ambulances marks a major step forward in strengthening emergency medical response capacity on Grand Turk. The vehicles are designed to meet international standards and will enhance the ability of EMS personnel to respond rapidly, deliver high-quality prehospital care, and save lives.
This investment also reflects the broader vision of the Government to ensure that all islands have equitable access to critical health resources. By improving response times and increasing capacity, the people of Grand Turk can be assured of timely, professional care in their moments of greatest need.
