PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently investigating a tragic traffic accident that occurred on the Causeway Bridge at approximately 5:00 PM today.

Preliminary reports indicate that the rider of a scooter lost control of the vehicle while crossing the bridge, struck the center concrete divider, and was subsequently thrown into the oncoming lane of traffic. The rider then collided with an approaching vehicle traveling from the airport direction.

Emergency personnel, including paramedics and police officers, responded promptly to the scene. Despite being transported for urgent medical treatment, the scooter rider has sadly passed away from injuries sustained in the accident.

Family members of the victim were present at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) tonight following the tragic news.

The KPSM Traffic Department has launched a full investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash.

Authorities are urging all motorists to avoid the Causeway Bridge area as investigators continue their work. The police will provide further updates as more information becomes available.

KPSM extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.

PHILIPSBURG:--- N.V. GEBE is proud to commemorate its 65th anniversary, marking more than six decades of dedicated service in providing electricity and water services to the people of St. Maarten. Despite facing challenges, this major milestone is a reflection of NV GEBE's enduring commitment to powering progress, supporting community development, and adapting to the ever-evolving needs of the nation, with a dedication to service and sustainability.

The 65th anniversary represents a proud legacy of resilience, service, and growth. It is a moment to honor the journey that began in 1959 and to recognize the generations of employees, leaders, and customers who have shaped GEBE into the cornerstone of utility service on St. Maarten with a sense of pride. It is also a time to look forward, to innovate, to modernize, and to elevate NV GEBE's services in the years to come.

GEBE has been at the heart of St. Maarten’s development, playing a critical role in powering homes, businesses, schools, healthcare institutions, and the island's overall economic development. 

From the early days of limited infrastructure to today’s extensive electricity and water distribution networks, NV GEBE has continuously grown with the island. Although along with growth, there can be diverse challenges, NV GEBE remains steadfast on the company's vision for progress. Through investments in new power generation technology, improved infrastructure developments, technological advancements, modernized water distribution systems, and ongoing expansion of the grid, NV GEBE has continued to rise and conquer each challenge resulting from the growing demand of a constantly evolving population and economy.

Over the years, several key initiatives have stood out at NV GEBE. One of the most impactful was the rapid restoration of electricity and water services following the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017. Despite significant damage, our team worked tirelessly to reconnect communities and businesses, proving NV GEBE’s resilience and dedication. Other notable initiatives include our school outreach programs to engage and educate the next generation and ongoing efforts toward integrating renewable energy solutions to build a more sustainable future. 

To our valued customers: thank you for your trust, patience, and partnership throughout the years. This 65th anniversary is as much yours as it is ours. To our dedicated employees: thank you for your countless years of service. Each and every one of you forms a crucial component of NV GEBE's dedicated services to our community with resilience and pride. 

We acknowledge the challenges and are committed to learning, improving, and growing with you. Our promise remains steadfast: to provide reliable, safe, and efficient utility services with integrity and care.

Looking ahead, GEBE is focused on modernization, sustainability, and customer service. We are committed to building a smarter utility company that meets international standards while staying rooted in community values.

To mark our 65th anniversary, NV GEBE will be celebrating with our customers by sharing commemorative items at our offices. As NV GEBE celebrates this milestone, we also take this moment to reaffirm our commitment to the community that we serve. We ask for our   customers' enduring patience and understanding while NV GEBE is undergoing a period of transformation that will shape the next chapter of utility services on St. Maarten. 

Our motto, "the power to serve," is not just a slogan; it is a commitment we live by every day. We do not take this responsibility lightly. With every challenge we face and every improvement we pursue, we remain steadfastly focused on serving the people of St. Maarten with integrity, reliability, and care. The journey continues, and so does our dedication to powering a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

PHILIPSBURG:--- After a year of intensive training, sixteen Coast Guard recruits proudly received their diplomas on Friday, September 12th. The certificates were presented by Mr. Walter Hansen, Director of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, and Mrs. Alpha Falbru, Director of the Law Enforcement and Security Training Institute (ORV). The newly minted Coast Guard members are now fully qualified and will soon take up their posts across Sint Maarten, Aruba, and Curacao, ready to protect and serve the countries. The journey began in August 2024, when twenty recruits entered the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard Crew Member Training (JBK). Their training started with a demanding four-week program called “Samen Sterk” (“Stronger Together”), followed by courses in maritime law, seamanship, firearms, and boarding procedures, equipping them to serve as both skilled sailors and law-enforcement officers. During the graduation ceremony at Naval Base Parera In Curacao, speeches were delivered by Director Hansen, ORV Director Falbru, and Mr. Reinita, head of Initial Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard Training, celebrating the graduates dedication and perseverance. After months of hard work and preparation, sixteen recruits emerged as fully qualified Coast Guard members, ready to safeguard the region’s waters and communities.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT), in partnership with Qredits and TWO, proudly announces the successful graduation of the first-ever Agri-Business Academy (ABA) cohort.

Over the past 12 weeks, participants immersed themselves in business development training tailored to agriculture and fisheries, covering everything from modern farming methods to circular economy models. The program culminated on Friday with a “Qredits-style” business pitch, where each graduate had three minutes to present their concept before an audience.

The ideas presented highlighted not only traditional farming but also innovative approaches, including sustainable farm-to-table business models and strategies to enhance the fisheries industry through collaboration and collective investment in tools.

Graduates were also informed that their Qredits loan portal—offering financing at just 2% interest—is now open to receive their applications, giving them a unique opportunity to bring their ideas to life.

Minister of TEATT, the Hon. Grisha Heyliger-Marten, expressed pride in the graduates and extended her gratitude to all who made the program possible.

“Today, we celebrate a milestone in building a resilient and sustainable future for St. Maarten. These participants have shown us that agriculture and fisheries are not only about tradition, but about innovation, collaboration, and vision. I extend heartfelt thanks to the Department of ETT, Mr. Frederick and Mrs. Isaac, Ms. Stoffer and Ms. Romeo of TWO, as well as Mr. Groenevelt and the dedicated Qredits team of staff and trainers. Together, you have planted the seeds of an agri-business movement that will benefit generations to come.”

The Agri-Business Academy is part of the wider E6 Country Package program, aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, food security, and access to finance. With this first cohort’s success, TEATT and its partners look forward to welcoming future groups of agri-entrepreneurs ready to transform St. Maarten’s food and fisheries industries. For more info on the upcoming Agri-Business Academy Sessions, please contact Qredits, via telephone at +1-721-542-3428.