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UN Chief calls for greater Commitment to SDGs, only 17% on track

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Garfield Ekon

Staff Writer

 

#TurksandCaicos, July 19, 2024 – Countries across the globe are being called on by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, to “double down” their efforts to achieve the 17 Sustainable Goals (SDGs) and set the world on a more sustainable path by 2030.

The UN Chief said failure to secure peace, and to confront Climate Change, and to boost international finance is “undermining development,” and the countries must “accelerate action” for the SDGs, and “we don’t have a moment to lose.

“Only 17% of the SDG targets are on track, and we need to go further and faster in three areas simultaneously. We must not let up on our promise to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind,” he told a recent press briefing to present the SDGs 2024 Report.

Noting that the Report shows that the world is getting a “failing grade,” Mr. Guterres underscored that progress on over one third has stalled, or even regressed, and in a world of “unprecedented wealth” knowledge and technologies, the denial of basic needs for so many is “outrageous and inexcusable.

“At the same time, we have what it takes to breakthrough to a better future, and the Report carries some glimmers of hope.

A few examples, girls in most regions are now achieving parity with boys in education.  Many women are breaking more glass ceilings in politics, in business and beyond.  Internet access is up.  HIV infections are down.  New malaria vaccines are being rolled out that could save millions of lives,” he reported.

The Secretary-General also highlighted that renewables are booming, and already make up 30 per cent of the world’s electricity supply. The speed and scale of the change needed for sustainable development is still far too slow, he said, and the examples “I gave, prove that it is possible, but we need to go further and faster in three areas simultaneously.

“We need action for peace.  From Gaza to Sudan, Ukraine and beyond, it is time to silence the guns, to support the displaced, and to pivot from spending on destruction and war to investing in people and peace.  Second, we need action on the green and digital transitions,” he said.

Making an impassion plea for countries to put forward ambitious national Climate action plans in 2025, that align with the 1.5°C limit, cover the whole economy and double as investment plans, he said a “surge in investment” in expanding access to digital connectivity and the benefits of the digital economy, is needed, and  countries should make these transitions “inclusive and fully aligned” with broader efforts to achieve gender equality.

“We need action on finance.  Many developing countries lack the financial resources and the fiscal space to invest in their futures and the future of their people. We must step up efforts to deliver the SDG Stimulus.  That means doing much more to reduce debt pressures and debt servicing costs.  It means expanding access to contingency financing for countries at risk of a cash flow crisis,” the UN Chief said.

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TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

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Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

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Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

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Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

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SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

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12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

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