News
Turks and Caicos Islands Launches New Project on Mosquito Control in Collaboration with London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and UK Health Security Agency
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 16 October 2024: The Ministry of Health and Human Services Environmental Health Department, in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has launched a ground-breaking mosquito control initiative in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). Funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this pilot project will assess the feasibility of environmentally sustainable methods for managing mosquito populations, with the long-term goal of improving public health across the islands.
This nine-month project will identify mosquito species in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) and explore eco-friendly methods for controlling their populations. By focusing on local ecological dynamics, the project seeks to inform a larger mosquito control strategy that balances public health with environmental protection.
The first phase will assess the threat of mosquito-borne diseases and evaluate breeding sites in North Caicos and Middle Caicos. A pilot survey of these sites is planned for November 2024 to guide future mosquito management efforts.
The project is co-led by distinguished experts, including Professor Jo Lines of LSHTM, Zatanya Handfield, Vector Control Coordinator TCI Environmental Health Department, and Dr Jolyon Medlock of the UKHSA. The core team is supported by Roz Taylor from LSHTM,
Alexander Vaux from UKHSA, and Bryan Manco, Assistant Director of Research and Development at the TCI Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR).
From 7 – 10 October 2024, the project team engaged with key stakeholders on the islands of Providenciales and North Caicos, facilitating important consultations with the research team. These discussions focused on the potential impact of the project, allowing for critical input from local communities and ensuring that the Turks and Caicos Islands’ unique environmental and public health priorities are fully integrated at every stage of project development.
Following these consultations, the team conducted field visits to significant mosquito breeding sites, including wetlands, ponds, swamps, and residential premises on North Caicos and Middle Caicos. These visits, guided by local experts such as Bryan Manco from the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), Junel Blaise, DECR Nursery and Field Officer, and Christopher May, Environmental Officer from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources Management, provided valuable insights into the ecological factors. TCI Vector Control Supervisor, Hilton Robinson and Vector Control Officer, Dwight Hall were also present, further contributing to the exploration of these ecologically important areas and providing valuable insights into human activities that promote mosquito breeding. These visits will provide vital data for the pilot survey, shaping future mosquito control efforts.
Mosquito-borne diseases pose a health challenge for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this initiative represents a significant step toward combating these risks through innovative, ecologically sensitive methods.
Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical Officer within the Ministry of Health and Human Services, expressed her support for the initiative, stating: “This collaboration marks a significant step in safeguarding the health of our people. Mosquito-borne diseases have long been a concern for us, and this research will not only identify the current threats but also explore innovative, environmentally friendly ways to control mosquito populations. We are deeply grateful to our partners at LSHTM and UKHSA for their expertise and commitment to this cause. By embedding local knowledge and priorities, we are ensuring that the solutions developed are sustainable and tailored to the unique challenges of our islands.”
Honourable Shaun D. Malcolm, Minister of Health and Human Services, also highlighted the initiative’s importance for the nation’s public health strategy: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the UK Health Security Agency on this ground-breaking initiative. By investing in this research now, we are taking proactive steps to protect the health of future generations. I look forward to seeing the results of this pilot project and the long-term impact it will have on our community.”
The Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding the public against vector-borne diseases. Through continued collaboration with regional and international partners, the Ministry is committed to maintaining robust health systems and protecting the well-being of all residents.
For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
-
News5 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
-
Caribbean News6 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
-
News5 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals