Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: Each year on 10^th September we come together to observe World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to reflect on the critical issue of suicide and the extensive impact it has on individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Suicide remains a significant global concern, being one of the top 20 leading causes of death and resulting in over 800,000 lives lost annually—one life every 40 seconds.

In the Turks and Caicos Islands, recent clinic-level data from the Department of Behavioural Health Services has brought to light a troubling increase in suicide attempts, with a noticeable impact on females aged 18-35. This growing concern highlights the urgent need for empathy, understanding, and support. While certain risk factors such as gender, ages 35-60, unemployment, living alone, depression, and financial difficulties are commonly associated with suicide, it is essential to recognise that the roots of these struggles are often deeply intertwined with a complex mix of genetic, psychological, social, and cultural influences. These challenges are frequently compounded by personal experiences of trauma and loss.

We want to emphasise that help is available and that reaching out for support can make a profound difference. In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day this year, the Department of Behavioural Health Services, under the Ministry of Health and Human Services, is introducing two crucial initiatives aimed at providing assistance and fostering understanding:

1. Online Mental Health Check-Ups

Depression and intense emotional pain are significant risk factors for suicide and self-harming behaviors. To support those navigating these difficult feelings, we are offering an online mental health screener. By completing this screener, individuals will receive a confidential assessment from a qualified clinician, who will then arrange either an in-person or virtual follow-up session. For further details, please refer to the attached flyer.

2. Mental Health Stigma Survey “Shifting Minds”

Stigma surrounding mental health remains a major obstacle for many seeking help. To address this, we are launching the “Shifting Minds” survey on 10th September as part of our Anti-Stigma Campaign. This nationwide initiative aims to challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and enhance the well-being of those experiencing mental health challenges. Your participation will help us better understand public attitudes and will contribute to shaping a compassionate and effective national anti-stigma campaign in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Commenting on World Suicide Prevention Day, Honourable Shaun D Malcolm, Minister for Health and Human Services, stated, “suicide prevention efforts remain a priority for the Turks and Caicos Islands. With the implementation of several new initiatives being undertaken by the Department of Behavioural Health Services, we anticipate positive outcomes such as an increase in public education, reduction in stigma and reduction in incidence rates.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with intense feelings or suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help. There is no shame in reaching out; doing so can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenging times. Offering compassion, understanding, and support to those in distress is crucial. Your experiences and actions can help create a more supportive community for everyone.

Nelson Mandela showed us the extraordinary difference one person can make in building a better world.

And as the theme of this year’s Nelson Mandela International Day reminds us – combatting poverty and inequality is in our hands.

Our world is unequal and divided.

Hunger and poverty are rife.

The richest one per cent are responsible for the same quantity of planet-wrecking greenhouse gases as two-thirds of humanity.

These are not natural facts. They are the result of humanity’s choices. And we can decide to do things differently.

We can choose to eradicate poverty.

We can choose to end inequality.

We can choose to transform the international economic and financial system in the name of equity.

We can choose to fight racism, respect human rights, combat climate change, and create a world that works for all humanity.

Every one of us can contribute – through actions large and small.

I join the Nelson Mandela Foundation in urging everyone to perform 67 minutes of public service on Nelson Mandela International Day – one minute for each year he fought for justice.

Together, let’s honour Madiba’s legacy and turn our hands towards building a better world for all.

Speakers at ACTIF will include global superstars Viola Davis, Serena Williams, Didier Drogba and African and CARICOM Heads of States

Nassau, Bridgetown, Georgetown, May 28, 2024 – Excitement mounts as The Bahamas prepares to host the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM) and the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) from 12 – 14 June 2024 in The Bahamas. Themed “Owning Our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the Platform of Global Africa,” ACTIF2024 is set to forge significant pathways for economic prosperity between Africa and the Caribbean.

Other distinguished speakers will include Heads of State from seven CARICOM countries, former Prime Ministers, Ministers of Trade, Economic Development and Finance, Dr. Roger W Ferguson, Former Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve, USA, Prof. Andreas Klasen, Professor of International Business and Director of the Institute for Trade and Innovation at Offenburg, and many more.

Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Afreximbank, said: “We are witnessing shifts in the global economic landscape and the trade strategies of major economies, making it imperative for African and Caribbean nations to unite for mutual prosperity. The Afreximbank Annual Meetings and AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum in The Bahamas will serve as a strategic platform to enhance our economic bonds. These events indicate a vibrant assertion of our shared destiny. We are poised to harness the dynamic economic growth within our regions, enhancing our collective resilience and prosperity.”

The event promises to be a pivotal platform for high-level discussions on economic development and regional integration.

Building on the successes of the inaugural AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum held in Barbados in 2022 and the gathering last year in Guyana, this year’s Forum in The Bahamas will further elevate and expand upon the discussions and initiatives previously set in motion. ACTIF2023, which focused on strengthening economic bonds and creating new investment opportunities, sets a precedent for meaningful collaboration between Africa and the CARICOM nations.

Afreximbank invites industry leaders, trade organisations and other stakeholders in the CARICOM region to participate and attend.

Registration is now open at https://2024.afreximbankevents.com.