TCI News
World Obesity Day 2018 – “End Weight Stigma”
#Providenciales, October 13, 2018 – Turks and Caicos – World Obesity Day was for the first time observed in 2015 to bring more awareness 
and to stimulate action which would support practical solutions to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight and to reverse the obesity crisis. The day is observed on 11th October every year. This day also aims to encourage advocacy, improve policies and share experiences. The theme this year is “End Weight Stigma”. This type of stigma is one of the last types of socially accepted discrimination.
The risk for serious health conditions and disease increases in persons who have obesity compared to persons who have a healthy or normal weight. Mrs. Robinson, Director of the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit within the Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services stated; “We have to be more sensitive and supportive to persons who struggle with their weight.”
The obesity epidemic is a complex problem with no simple or single solution. To help prevent obesity persons should exercise regularly, have a healthy diet and decide to make a lifestyle change and not think of being on a diet. The Health Promotion and Advocacy have implemented a number of programmes within churches, communities and schools to educate and bring awareness and assist persons to make healthier choices.
To assist and motivate persons who may be struggling with their weight, a testimonial was provided by Ms. Jacqueline Henry.
At the end of July 2016, I noticed that I was extremely exhausted and began to experience chest and breast pains. On July 28th, I visited the doctor where a series of examinations, such as blood work and a breast ultrasound was administered. During follow-up on Tuesday, 2nd August, the doctor concluded that I was extremely obese and I needed to lose some weight in order for my body to function normally. August 3rd, I had a consultation with the therapist. I discovered that I was weighing in at 450 lbs., which was very shocking and emotional for me as I realized that I was only 50 lbs. away from 500 lbs. The following week I visited the nutritionist and this is where my journey began. At first, only my family knew of my healthy lifestyle changes. I was ashamed of how heavy I had become. On the 8th of September I had my first weigh in and discovered I had lost 17 lbs. This motivated me.”
“I began consuming healthy portions of controlled breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks. I drank eight glasses of water daily and occasionally I replaced a meal with natural juices consisting of fruits and vegetables. I wanted to give up at the beginning stage. I felt restricted in the sense of food choices because I was a “sodaholic” and there were many foods that I had to eliminate but, when I began to look at this journey as a lifestyle change 
instead of a diet, the journey seemed easier as I wanted to live a longer life and to be comfortable in my own skin. I must thank the Lord for blessing me with the spirit of determination and dedication. The Lord has made all of this possible.”
The Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services added; “Ms. Henry’s journey is a remarkable one and should be commended. Her commitment and determination have brought about success and positive results towards a healthier lifestyle. I hope that Ms. Henry’s testimony is an encouragement to all who struggle with their weight and is proof that you too can do it.”
For more information on obesity and how to adopt a healthy lifestyle, contact the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit on 338 2772.
Release: TCIG
Turks and Caicos, October 28, 2025 – We are closely monitoring the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica, and our thoughts and prayers are with our regional neighbours for their safety and well-being
We are now entering a critical period as Hurricane Melissa advances towards the Turks and Caicos Islands. Current projections indicate that Hurricane Melissa will begin to impact the Turks and Caicos Islands around midday tomorrow, Wednesday, 29th October.
This morning, Her Excellency the Governor and the Hon. Premier chaired a State of Preparedness Meeting. All Government agencies and critical services are mobilised. The safety and protection of every person across our Islands remains our highest priority. Our emergency response teams are prepared and the TCI Regiment is deployed across each of our Islands to support community readiness and immediate response. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are on active duty, with additional officers in North Caicos, Salt Cay, South Caicos and Grand Turk.
At this time, the hurricane is moving north-northeast. The country is expected to experience tropical storm conditions, heavy rainfall and
significant storm surge. The storm surge poses a serious concern for low-lying coastal areas especially along our western and southern coastlines, which may result in coastal flooding. Based on the most current weather projections and anticipated impacts for the Turks and Caicos Islands, the National Executive have agreed the following actions:
1. Evacuation Advisories
Residents in specific low-lying and flood-prone coastal areas are likely to experience significant storm surge of 2-4 feet with accompanying rainfall. Strong advice is now place for residents in these areas to relocate to designated shelters which will be open from 4pm this afternoon. These areas include:
Middle Caicos
- Conch Bar Nearest Shelter: The Community Centre
North Caicos
- Sandy Point Nearest Shelter : Sandy Point Community Centre
- Whitby Nearest Shelter: Adelaide Oemler Primary School
- Bottle Creek Nearest Shelter: Adelaide Oemler Primary School
Providenciales
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- Chalk Sound Nearest Shelter Enid Capron Primary School
- Five Cays Nearest Shelter: Enid Capron Primary School
- Discovery Bay Nearest Shelter: All Saints Church, Leeward Highway
- Juba Sound Nearest Shelter: A. Louise Garland High School
- Long Bay Nearest Shelter: A. Louise Garland High School
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South Caicos
- Cockburn Harbour Nearest Shelter: Community Centre
- Old Airport Road Nearest Shelter: Community Centre
Should an evacuation order become necessary, it will be issued following the 6:00 PM Advisory this evening from the TCI National Weather Service.
2. Activation of Emergency Operations Centre
The National Emergency Operations Centre in Providenciales and all Islands Emergency Operations Centres will be activated at 4:00 PM today.
3. Shelters Access
Shelters across all Islands will open today at 4:00 PM to receive members of the public.
4. Shelter-in-Place
A Strong Shelter-in-Place Advisory is in place for all islands, commencing at 10:00 PM tonight. This will be in place until the all clear has been issued.
This means that from 10:00 PM tonight, all residents should be off the road, in a safe location, either at home or a designated shelter.
Please note that this position may be revised following the 6:00 PM Advisory from the TCI National Weather Service, depending on updated storm projections.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has confirmed that all airports remain fully operational for today. They will advise the public about ongoing operations dependent on the weather impacts.
In times such as this, the role of commercial entities extends beyond business – it becomes a vital part of the community’s resilience. All retailers and service providers are urged to uphold their humanitarian responsibilities by maintaining fair pricing and ensuring essential goods and services remain accessible to all.
Residents and visitors are reminded to adhere strictly to all official advisories and evacuation orders as they are issued. Avoid unnecessary movement, secure your property, and ensure that you and your family are prepared with essential supplies. Stay prepared and stay safe.
Turks and Caicos, October 24, 2025 – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey delivered an impassioned address to male students at Clement Howell High School, calling on them to recognize their power, seize their potential, and “awaken the sleeping giants” within.
In a message that blended humility, faith, and personal experience, the Commissioner reminded the boys that the decisions they make today will shape their future.“The choices you make today determine who you become tomorrow,” he said.
Bailey, who revealed he was the first in his family to attend high school, urged the students to embrace education and discipline as tools of
transformation.“Knowledge is power. If you want to be a real man, you need to read,” he told them. “Remember your potential — if others can do it, so can you. Some of you are sleeping giants waiting to be awakened.”
He emphasized that circumstances of birth do not dictate destiny, challenging the young men to carry self-respect, faith, and moral conviction wherever they go. “Self-respect is key; respect yourself, respect others, and respect God,” he said. “The circumstances you were born into do not define who you are.”
The Commissioner also spoke about resilience, advising that true strength often lies in restraint.
“There will be challenges, and people may try to impede your development — but rise above negativity. Sometimes, strength means walking away,” he said. “Some of you are sleeping lions; it’s time to awaken that instinct and rediscover your true potential.”
In closing, Commissioner Bailey delivered a stirring challenge:
“Each morning, look in the mirror and remind yourself that you were created by God and are capable of great exploits. You are a possibility with potential. Step forward with confidence — this is your country, your islands. Be the best version of yourself.”
Following his speech, the Commissioner engaged the students in open dialogue, answering questions and listening to their perspectives on issues affecting young men in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.
