Digital Payments Go-Live: Barbados has launched BiMPay, its national instant payment platform, enabling 24/7 transfers for people, businesses and government, with Prime Minister Mottley making the first live purchase at a midnight “pyjama party.” Financial Inclusion: Credit union leaders welcomed BiMPay as a boost for real-time access and inclusion, while urging policy fixes like encouraging employers to pay salaries into credit union accounts. Transport Tech Debate: Uber moved to reassure Barbados taxi drivers, saying its app connects riders only to licensed taxis and follows official fare rates amid concerns about competition and livelihoods. Infrastructure & Safety: A veteran engineer warned Barbados’ drainage problems worsen road deterioration and flooding, calling for a drainage network overhaul. Justice System Pressure: A defence attorney questioned the need for a dedicated firearms court, arguing existing courts and support services should be strengthened to tackle backlogs faster. Health & Regulation: Senators advanced the Barbados Medical Products Authority reform to modernise medicine oversight and improve access to safe products; meanwhile, health officials reported rising syphilis cases and urged testing and safer sex. STEM & Innovation: Future Caribbean launched a global agentic AI buildathon to back Caribbean tech startups, and students were exposed to robotics and drones through a WorldSkills-style training camp. Community Tech: The government’s Pearly app lets citizens report concerns and track responses for a more responsive public service. Science in the News: Saharan dust is easing after earlier heavy impacts, according to the Barbados Meteorological Services.