#TurksandCaicos, June 25, 2024 – The Department of Social Development and Welfare conducted several recruitment drives across the Turks and Caicos Islands, engaging stakeholders, potential foster carers, and advocates to highlight the urgent need for foster carers. These events raised awareness of the importance of foster care, highlighting the role it plays in providing safe and nurturing environments for children in need and emphasising the overall impact it has on the lives of these children.

The Department of Social Development and Welfare is issuing a heartfelt call to the community to continue to support its foster care recruitment initiative, as the demand for loving, stable foster homes has never been greater. The department urges compassionate individuals and families to consider opening their hearts and homes to children in need.

The Turks and Caicos Islands can pave the path for a brighter future by forging a stronger, more supportive community for children in need.

The Department of Social Development and Welfare is calling the public to come together and support this vital cause by:

2. Spreading the Word: Help the Department of Social Development and Welfare reach a wider audience by sharing information about foster care with friends, family, and community groups.
3. Volunteer: There are many ways to support foster children and foster families through volunteer efforts.
4. Donate: Financial contributions can help provide essential resources and support services for foster children and families.

Danae Dennie and Deandrea Hamilton

Editorial Staff

#TheBahamas, June 25, 2024 – ‘Ready or Not’ AfreximFest is sizzling finale, capping of concert spectacular with Haitian superstar, Wyclef Jean.

This year, AFREXIMFEST 2024 was held for the first time in the Caribbean region, The Bahamas hosting the three days of meeting in Nassau at the Baha Mar resort.

It is a rich tradition for the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to celebrate the rich cultural contributions throughout the various industries and the orange economy is a major highlight.

The concert was MC’d by Nigerian radio personality and television presenter IK Osakioduwa and featured artists from The Bahamas, the continent of Africa and Trinidad and Tobago.

Nigerian Artiste, Flavour brought spunky afro beats, Fanshawn delivered on the down home Bahamian rake n scrape sound with impeccable showmanship; Oudun drummers from Brazil were a pulsating show stopper and Trinidad and Tobago’s KES the Band thrilled the audience with performances of its wildly popular soca hits including ‘Savanah Grass’.

Making a dramatic entrance with his Fugees hit, ‘Ready or Not’ was Grammy Award winning Wyclef Jean.  The Haitian rapper, singer, producer and songwriter, set the audience in a frenzy with his rendition of  Fugees version of the Roberta Flack remake of ‘Killing me Softly’; Bob Marley’s ‘No Woman, No Cry’ and hits he authored for Carlos Santana and Shakira, namely: ‘Maria Maria’ and ‘Hips don’t Lie’. However, it was arguably, ‘911’ his chart topping duet with Mary J. Blige that set the audience ablaze, joining in singing of the song as he wowed onlookers with his salacious guitar solo which showed off Wyclef’s enviable skills on the instrument.

The event and its amazing line up of singers, dancers, comedians and master DJs forged further, the message of solidarity and partnership which became recurring  pitch phrases at the meetings.  Music proved an ultimate unifier yet again, as AAM2024 wrapped up with stellar reviews from those who packed the concert hall.

Turks and Caicos, June 25, 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services announces an increase in cases of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) across the islands. This spike, observed over the past month, has prompted immediate public health actions and awareness campaigns to curb the spread and ensure public safety. Since June, health facilities in Turks and Caicos have reported a rise in ARI cases.

Acute respiratory infections are typically caused by viruses but can also be bacterial in origin. Symptoms commonly observed include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Muscle ache

ARIs are primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with infected individuals or touching contaminated surfaces can also facilitate transmission. Although most individuals recover from these symptoms within a week without medical intervention, severe illness or fatalities can occur, especially among vulnerable groups such as the very young, elderly, pregnant women, health workers, and those with underlying medical conditions. It is important to remain vigilant for early detection of severe disease and present to your healthcare provider.

The Ministry of Health urges all residents and visitors to adhere to the following guidelines to protect themselves and others:

1. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitiser when soap and water are not available. Learn and use proper handwashing technique. Teach children the correct way to wash their hands. Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs regularly. Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs often spread when hands come into contact with contaminated surfaces and then touch the face.

1. Wear Masks: Use face masks in crowded places and when interacting with vulnerable populations.

1. Avoid Close Contact: Maintain physical distancing and avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness.

1. Stay Home– If you or your child is experiencing flu-like symptoms, stay home from work, school, and daycare to prevent spreading the illness to others. Prioritise ample rest, hydration, nutritious eating, stress management, and physical activity to support overall well-being.

1. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Ministry of Health and heed public health advisories.

The Ministry of Health is working diligently to address the increase in acute respiratory infections and ensure the well-being of all residents and visitors in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Cooperation from the public is crucial in controlling the spread of these infections.

The Ministry is encouraging vaccination against influenza and other respiratory infections, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children and the elderly. Residents are encouraged to proactively seek the vaccines, which are provided free of charge at Primary Healthcare Clinics across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

For additional information, please visit the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.