Belize has come out on top of the Caribbean as the region’s happiest country, according to the World Happiness Report, Caribbean Journal has learned. 

The Caribbean country on the coast of Central America was ranked 25th overall in the world, highest of any country in the Caribbean Community. 

It’s the first time for the country, which has a population of about 400,000.

A 49-year-old US national named Akinyela Sawa Taylor was fatally shot in the chest after attempting to hijack a Tropic Air plane in Belize on Thursday, officials reported. A state of emergency was declared at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport after Taylor began attacking passengers on the San Pedro-bound flight at 8:30 a.m.

Reuters/AP

I grew up in the days where you had movies like The Naked Gun, Blazing Saddles, and Billy Crystal in City Slickers. And I wanted something lighter, something funny in a parody sense, and all with a bit of a love interest.

Lumina, a film written and produced by T&T-born Gino McKoy and currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and YouTube, features a group of modern-day young adults on a journey for the truth.

For over 60 years, Dr. Watson gave unparalleled service for the love of our country and its people. His study and preservation of our nation’s history and heritage were grounded in a profound understanding of the value of our past. Indeed, his efforts have helped remind us that in a time of much global uncertainty, knowing where we came from ensures we never forget who we are, and what we are capable of. I know with absolute certainty that his work has enriched our collective identity as Bajans, inspired generations, and strengthened the foundations upon which our future will be built.

By Government of Barbados | Jan 12, 2025

Guyana, a small South American nation with a population of over 800,000 people, experienced a significant oil boom that transformed it into the world’s fastest-growing economy. The President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali, has announced that every Guyanese citizen aged 18 and older as of January 1, 2024, will receive a $100,000 cash grant. The President also announced that in addition to abolishing the tuition fees for the University of Guyana from January 2025, the Government will also be abolishing the tuition fees at all Government technical and vocational schools.

Angela Brooks for YAME

Barbados is boldly pursuing ambitious infrastructure developments and impressive eco-tourism initiatives, showcasing its commitment to realizing big dreams. Some of the major projects currently underway stand not only as testaments to engineering prowess but also as beacons of hope for a brighter future.

By Theo Edwards

Customs and Immigration officials from Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad have already agreed that most systems were already in place and can be adjusted to accommodate the [ferry] service,’ according to a statement from CARICOM. The ferry, the product of a partnership between Guyana, Trinidad, and Barbados, will transport both passengers and containers, according to Guyanese officials.