Juan Luis Londono Donates Football Boots to Turks and Caicos Islands U17 and U20 National Teams
In a generous act of support for the development of youth football, Mr. Juan Luis Londono donated a substantial number of football boots to the Turks and Caicos Islands' Men’s U17 and U20 National Teams. This timely contribution comes as both teams prepare to compete in the prestigious Concacaf Qualifiers this year.
Speaking about the donation, TCI’s Men’s U20 Head Coach and Expert Goalkeeper Coach Aaron Lawrence expressed his excitement. “We are deeply appreciative of Mr. Londono’s generous donation. It is support like this that helps uplift our teams and encourages them to pursue their dreams with passion and determination. We are absolutely thrilled and beyond grateful for this generous donation, which has arrived just in the nick of time to supercharge our capabilities! It’s an incredible boost for the team and a shining testament to the community’s belief in what we’re building here. These resources will definitely empower us to elevate our young athletes’ skills and potential to new heights!”
As the teams gear up for the upcoming Concacaf Qualifiers, this donation not only boosts their morale but also enhances their readiness to compete at an elite level. It reflects a shared belief in the power of sport to inspire and unite communities.
The Concacaf Men’s U17 Qualifiers are scheduled to take place from February 5th to 12th. The Turks and Caicos team will compete in Group D against Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
The Concacaf Men’s U20 Qualifiers will follow, occurring from February 23rd to March 4th. Turks and Caicos has been drawn into Group B, alongside Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts and Nevis, the Cayman Islands, and Bonaire. Matches for Group B will be held in Willemstad, Curacao.
TCIFA Hosts First Talent Development Pathway Camp
The inaugural Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association's (TCIFA) Talent Development Pathway (TDP) Camp has just concluded, scoring a major goal in the quest to nurture rising football stars!
The camp united promising players from Grand Turk and Providenciales in a well-rounded program that emphasizes both athletic and personal growth. Over the course of the camp, participants engaged in three intensive on-pitch training sessions that honed their technical skills, game understanding, and introduced them to the rigorous standards of a player development environment.
Beyond the technical aspects, the camp prioritized teaching players the importance of discipline, commitment, and the behaviors essential for progressing towards elite sports. With this, participants learned that development is a long-term journey, shaped by daily habits, professionalism, and personal accountability.
Further enriching the experience, players attended a nutrition and hydration workshop, designed to enhance their understanding of how lifestyle choices affect performance and development. This workshop offered practical insights that players can apply both during and outside of camp. TCIFA extends its gratitude to Ms. Maya Saunders, Senior Programme Officer at the TCI's Ministry of health and Human Services, and Natural Trade Distribution for their support and contributions. Meals and electrolytes, pivotal in demonstrating the importance of nutrition, were generously provided by local partners committed to nurturing the players' wellbeing and performance.
A series of educational workshops complemented the athletic training, including the introduction of individual development plans, which empower players to take charge of their growth on and off the field.
The camp was spearheaded by TCIFA Talent Lead Lenford Singh, TCIFA Grand Turk Director of Football Olivia Gravely, and FIFA Talent Coach Eilidh Mackay. FIFA Technical Expert Ann-Helen also joined the team from Sweden, lending her expertise to support the camp.
"The camp experience surpassed my expectations in the best way possible. The opportunity to learn and lead classroom sessions was exciting, and the knowledge gained on the field was invaluable for both the Grand Turk players and us as coaches," said Olivia Gravely.
"This camp was an incredible success and a thrilling opportunity to connect the islands through this program. I've learned a lot, and we look forward to hosting more camps. A big thank you to the entire coaching staff for a wonderful experience," added Lenford Singh.
The TCIFA Talent Development Pathway Camp exemplifies a holistic approach to player development, recognizing that successful progression requires more than just technical prowess. By integrating football training with education, wellbeing, and accountability, the program aims to better equip players for future competitive environments.
The FIFA TDS Talent Coach program plays a pivotal role in establishing a clear and cohesive pathway for players, drawing on global best practices to create an atmosphere that not only reflects modern game requirements but actively teaches players what it takes to become top athletes. This approach exposes players early to the expectations, behaviors, and mindset needed to thrive at higher levels of the game.
The TCIFA Talent Development Pathway is designed for players who aspire to greatness and are dedicated to continuous improvement. These individuals are committed to maximizing their potential, consistently contemplating not only their current abilities but also their aspirations for success in international arenas in the future..
This first-ever TCIFA TDP Camp sets the stage for unearthing and nurturing the next superstar athletes across the islands!
Court Hands down verdict on Former Premier & Associates
The case of the century has ended in the Supreme Court, on February 4, 2026 in the Turks & Caicos concerning Former Premier Michael Misick, Former minister for South Caicos, McAllister Hanchell and Attorney Thomas Chalmers Misick.
Zoya Faessler was in the courtroom and filed this report to RTC News.
That report from RTC's Zoya Fasseler.
DEPARTMENT OF TRADE PROMOTES “MADE IN TCI” PRODUCTS AT DISTRICT MODA TRADE SHOW IN PUERTO RICO
The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition participated in the District MODA Apparel, Shoe, Gift and Accessories Trade Show, held in Puerto Rico from January 25 to January 27, 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote local products and support export development.
Representing the Department were Mrs. Florice Forbes-Walkin, Senior Trade Officer, and Mr. Jehvon Andrews, Trade Officer, who travelled to the tropical destination carrying a selection of beautifully crafted, handmade products distinctly branded as “Made in TCI.” The three-day trade show was conducted in a business-to-business (B2B) setting, providing valuable opportunities to engage directly with buyers, distributors, and industry stakeholders.
The Department showcased a curated collection of locally made items from D’s Native Gift Shop, The Wellington Collection, TCI Dolls, and Nikki’s Trinkets. These products reflected the creativity, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship of the Turks and Caicos Islands and generated notable interest among attendees. Through the Department’s participation, all businesses received sales leads that will contribute to their growth and market expansion.
Speaking on the experience, Mrs. Forbes-Walkin stated:
It was truly a pleasure to represent the talent, creativity, and cultural identity that our "Beautiful by Nature" islands possess. The Department embraces opportunities like this to provide a platform for promoting Brand TCI and to foster pathways for export development. The pieces we showcased captured the attention of many attendees and sparked meaningful conversations about our local products and creative sector. This experience was nothing short of amazing, and we look forward to participating in similar initiatives in the future.”
Participation in District MODA forms part of the Department’s broader strategy to expand market access for local producers, strengthen international trade relationships, and position Turks and Caicos Islands-made products within regional and international markets.
The Department remains committed to supporting entrepreneurs, and small businesses by creating opportunities that highlight the unique value of locally produced goods and promote sustainable economic growth through trade.
GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES MAJOR CRIME REDUCTIONS
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to report significant and measurable progress in strengthening public safety across our islands.
Through targeted operations and intelligence-led policing, we have achieved substantial reductions in violent crime and the circulation of illegal firearms, resulting in murders reduced by 43.5%. Most notably, January 2026 recorded zero murders — the first January without a homicide since 2019. This milestone reflects real progress in protecting lives and restoring confidence in our communities.
Our latest data further shows:
• A 25% reduction in attempted murders
• A 22% reduction in rapes
• A 29% reduction in the discharge of firearms
• A 29% reduction in the brandishing of unlicensed firearms
These results are the product of deliberate and sustained enforcement efforts.
Specialised intelligence units were activated to dismantle organised criminal networks. As a result, major gangs have been disrupted and dismantled. Twenty-two illegal firearms and more than 500 rounds of ammunition have been seized, removing dangerous weapons from our streets.
Focused monitoring and decisive action against known crime influencers have led to the disruption and dispersal of gang activity. The majority of identified violence producers and gang members are now in custody.
These outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of strategic policing, coordinated national security efforts, and strong community cooperation. They reflect the professionalism and dedication of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and our partner agencies.
While we recognise this important progress, our commitment remains steadfast. Public safety is an ongoing priority, and we will continue to strengthen enforcement, invest in intelligence capabilities, and support initiatives that address the root causes of crime.
The safety and security of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands will always remain paramount.
TCI Post Cabinet Meeting
Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor, chaired the 2nd meeting of Cabinet held on Wednesday January 7th, 2026, at the Office of the Governor, Raleigh House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales.
All members were present.
At this meeting Cabinet:
- Approved the onward submission of the Economic and Social Impact Assessment of the Amended Business Licensing Framework, and review of the draft Motion to amend the Business Licensing Amendments Bill to Parliament.
- Approved the establishment of a Quality Council under the National Quality Policy in accordance with the policy’s implementation and governance framework.
- Approved the formalization of the Turks and Caicos Islands relationship with the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency.
- Noted the final inspection report of His Majesty’s Prison Grand Turk recommended next steps.
- Approved a virement to facilitate a subvention for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.
- Conditionally approved a Planning Application in relation to a Fuel Service Station in Kew, North Caicos on block and parcel 50305/11.
- Conditionally approved a Planning Application in relation to the construction of a two-story building on block and parcel 60900/449, Providenciales.
- Conditionally approved a Planning Application in relation to six studio units and one-bedroom apartments/ancillary facilities on block and parcel 6011/42, South Dock Road, Providenciales.
- Further considered conditions for an approval granted on January 2, 2026, in relation to a Planning Application for a Residential Development on block and parcel 60807/107, 108 and 109 at Juba Sound, Providenciales.
Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE LAUNCHES INAUGURAL E-MAGAZINE "BEYOND THE SCHOOL BELL”
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture is pleased to announce the launch of Beyond the School Bell, the inaugural e-magazine of the Social Enrichment Academic Afterschool Programme (SEAP). This groundbreaking publication celebrates the vibrant activities taking place in afterschool programmes across schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Beyond the School Bell offers an exciting glimpse into the diverse activities that keep students engaged, learning and thriving long after the school bell rings. From hands-on cultural and arts activities to sports, environmental initiatives and academic enrichment programmes, the e-magazine highlights the innovative ways the afterschool programme is shaping well-rounded students and building stronger school communities.
Commenting on the launch, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, stated: "This dynamic publication celebrates the creativity, curiosity and community that come alive in our afterschool programme. Through the photos, highlights and presentations, Beyond the School Bell captures how afterschool hours become a powerful space for exploration, growth and connection, reflecting our commitment to supporting our students academically, socially and creatively.”
The e-magazine showcases the meaningful difference the afterschool programme is making in the lives of children and young people across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
To view the inaugural issue of Beyond the School Bell, please visit:
MULTI-AGENCY ENFORCEMENT ACTION CONDUCTED AT SILVERADO THE WELLS
The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at PS:38 Silverado the Wells.
The exercise was led by the Crown Land Unit, pursuant to its statutory mandate under the Crown Land Ordinance to prevent squatting and encroachment on Crown land. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by Immigration and Border Services, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.
The enforcement action followed a series of inspections conducted by the Crown Land Unit, which identified multiple illegally constructed and unoccupied timber structures and concrete platforms across several parcels. In keeping with the provisions of the Crown Land Ordinance, Notices of Illegal Occupation were posted on the offending structures. Following the failure of the responsible parties to comply within the prescribed timeframe, enforcement action was authorised.
A total of eleven (11) incomplete and unoccupied timber structures and nine (9) concrete platforms or foundations were removed across the affected parcels. While the parcels were partially reclaimed during the exercise, other occupied structures remain on site and will be addressed through ongoing enforcement processes.
The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold the law, protect Crown land, and manage informal settlements in a structured and lawful manner. Members of the public are reminded that unauthorised occupation and development on Crown land is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.
TCI REPRESENTATIVES PARTICIPATE IN LANDMARK REGIONAL CRISIS WORKSHOP
Dr. Holly Hamilton,Director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Weather Service, and Mr. Damian Wilson, Deputy Director of Radio Turks and Caicos, recently represented the Turks and
Caicos Islands at a landmark regional crisis communications workshop held from 20th-21st January, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Port of Spain, Trinidad.
The two-day workshop brought together more than 60 professionals from across the Caribbean, including representatives from national meteorological and hydrometeorological services, disaster management agencies, government information services, and media organizations. The initiative aimed to strengthen collaboration, enhance knowledge-sharing, and promote mutual understanding to improve crisis communication during extreme weather and disaster events.
Participants examined existing gaps in regional crisis communication systems and explored strategies to ensure timely, accurate, and effective public information dissemination before, during, and after emergencies.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Hamilton described the workshop as highly productive, highlighting discussions on effective messaging, early warning systems, and the importance of engaging the media as strategic partners.
“Media partnership is critical to successful early warning and disaster response,” Dr.Hamilton stated. “From meteorological services to disaster management agencies and the media, we all share responsibility for protecting lives and property. There is significant opportunity for improvement in standardizing communication templates,clearly communicating potential impacts, and ensuring our messages prompt responsible public action. Hosting a similar workshop in the Turks and Caicos would further strengthen our national preparedness and resilience.”
Mr. Wilson also emphasized the value of the regional exchange, noting the importance of evidence-based communication strategies. “This workshop provided me with an excellent opportunity to learn from regional best practices and to advocate for greater integration of social science research into communication planning,” he said. “Such research provides the empirical foundation needed to develop measurable and effective communication outcomes. I am encouraged by the strong support from our regional colleagues for this approach.”
This workshop marked the first time that weather services, disaster management, government information, and media services from across the region convened in a single forum to address crisis communications collectively. The initiative forms part of a broader regional effort to enhance disaster resilience through coordinated, accurate, and impactful public messaging.
The workshop was hosted by the Caribbean Meteorological Organization (CMO) in partnership with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU), the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the CREWS Initiative, and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).
TCI Weather Forecast
GENERAL SITUATION: A frontal boundary near the Turks and Caicos Islands will gradually stall today while supporting isolated to widely scattered showers, mainly over the westernmost islands.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: There is a high risk of dangerous rip currents along Atlantic exposures. Beachgoers are advised to refrain from entering these waters.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Mostly cloudy with a low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers this afternoon in Providenciales, North Caicos and Middle Caicos. Partly cloudy with isolated showers possible in South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay. Partly to mostly cloudy with a low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers in all islands tonight. New total rainfall accumulations of about a quarter of an inch.
ADVISORY: Small Craft Advisory in Atlantic waters
WINDS: North to northeast at 10 knots or less, becoming northeast at 10 to 15 knots this evening.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 1 to 3 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 5 feet, building up to 8 feet in northerly to northeasterly swells offshore
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 79°F-81°F 26°C-27°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 72°F 25°C
SUNSET: 05:35 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 03:14 PM (1.59 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 09:22 PM (0.09 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The weakening frontal boundary lingering near the Turks and Caicos Islands will continue to bring unsettled weather through Friday. Periods of showers, with a few isolated thunderstorms, are expected—especially during the daytime hours. Breezy to windy conditions with rough seas will create hazardous marine conditions, particularly in Atlantic waters where Small Craft Advisories remain in effect. Conditions are expected to improve on Friday as winds ease and seas subside briefly.
THURSDAY: A medium chance (50 to 70 percent) chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms in the morning, then a high (80 percent) chance of showers in the afternoon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 77°F (25°C).
THURSDAY NIGHT: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of isolated showers in the evening. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73°F (23°C). New total rainfall accumulation between 1 and 2 inches.
ADVISORY: Small Craft Caution in the Caicos Bank and Small Craft Advisory in Atlantic waters
WINDS: Northeast at 15 to 25 knots, with gusts up to 35 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 4 to 6 feet; Atlantic – 5 to 7 feet nearshore, building up to 9 feet offshore
SUNRISE: 06:27 AM
SUNSET: 05:36 PM
HIGH TIDE: 04:29 AM (2.55 FT) 04:22 PM (1.59 FT)
LOW TIDE: 11:05 AM (0.60 FT) 10:26 PM (0.06 FT)
FRIDAY: A low chance (30 to 40 percent) chance of scattered showers in the morning, then a medium (50 to 60 percent) chance of showers in the afternoon. Partly cloudy, with a high near 81°F (27°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: A low chance (30 to 40 percent) chance of scattered showers in the evening. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75°F (24°C).
WINDS: Northeast to east at 15 to 20 knots, shifting east to southeast at 10 to 15 knots in the evening.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 4 to 6 feet nearshore, building up to 8 feet in northerly swells offshore
SUNRISE: 06:27 AM
SUNSET: 05:36 PM
HIGH TIDE: 05:29 AM (2.64 FT) 05:26 PM (1.68 FT)
LOW TIDE: 12:04 AM (0.54 FT) 11:28 PM (0.00 FT)
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON