Fintech Upgrade: Barbados has launched BiMPay, a 24/7 instant payments system from the Central Bank, letting people and businesses send and receive money in seconds via banks, credit unions, and an e-wallet using phone numbers, email, or QR codes. Public Health Tech: The Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory was designated a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for antimicrobial resistance surveillance, boosting regional capacity for detecting and tracking drug-resistant infections through training and advanced lab work. Energy Grid Scrutiny: A consumer advocate is challenging Barbados Light & Power’s bid to recover about $79m for grid modernisation, arguing the costs and process behind synchronous condensers and the Clean Energy Transition Rider need tighter justification. Energy Security Funding: The IDB approved a US$150m programme to strengthen Barbados’ energy security, aiming for a more resilient, competitive electricity market and faster integration of new generation and storage technologies. Credit Union Safety Net: Barbados’ credit union movement is set to get deposit insurance legislation tabled in parliament soon, a long-awaited safeguard for members’ savings. Local Culture in Schools: The NCF partnered with author Shakirah Bourne to bring Bajan Anansi tales into Barbadian school libraries, with live readings scheduled across multiple primary schools. Health & Law: A woman has filed what’s described as a first-of-its-kind lawsuit against the Government of Barbados over alleged injuries after AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccination in 2021.