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Ministry delivers road repairs & safety upgrades

The Ministry of Public Works & Environment has carried out targeted pothole repairs, fencing installations, and infrastructure upgrades across multiple parishes over the past week

The Ministry of Public Works & Environment has reported visible progress on road conditions across Bermuda, with crews active from east to west over the week of April 11–19, 2026.

Over the weekend of April 11–12, teams carried out targeted pothole repairs across the island, focusing on areas identified by residents as most heavily affected. Embankment repairs were also completed along Trimingham Hill to protect pedestrian access.

Safety improvements for road users included the installation of roadside fencing along Mangrove Bay Road and Cook’s Hill in Sandys. In Devonshire, crews installed a flashing beacon base along Middle Road to improve visibility.

Larger-scale works are also under way, including road paving along Spanish Point Road in Pembroke, expansion of bus laybys at Blue Hole Hill in Hamilton Parish, a pilot pothole repair programme in Paget with additional contractor support, and preparatory work for new traffic lights in Flatts.

Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon. Jache Adams, JP, MP, said: “Our teams are focused on fixing roads, improving safety, and responding quickly when issues arise. While there is much work to be done we are determined to have steady, consistent delivery across the island.”

In the coming weeks, the Ministry said works will include preparations for the Swing Bridge detour route in St. George’s, drainage improvements on St. John’s Road, and new fencing at Barker’s Hill roundabout.

Media release supplied by the Government of Bermuda, Department of Communications.

Germany is to contribute 500 million euros to climate fund, Brazil says

The fund aims to support studies and finance projects focused on mitigating climate change

International News via Reuters:

Germany will contribute 500 million euros ($588.30 million) to a climate fund managed by Brazil’s state development bank BNDES, Brazil’s president told a press conference with his German counterpart on Monday.

The fund aims to support studies and finance projects focused on mitigating climate change.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who will conclude a two-day visit to Germany on Tuesday, said Brazil was willing to discuss alternative energy sources with Germany and that he was “an unwavering advocate of biofuels”.

Lula added that Germany could benefit from Brazil’s renewable‑energy expertise and that officials from both countries would work to implement the decisions taken on Monday, without giving further details.

Biofuels can reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions while making use of existing fuel infrastructure. The blend of biodiesel with conventional diesel in the fuel sold in gas stations can also help to lower costs, particularly by reducing dependence on fuel imports.

Brazil, one of the world’s leading biodiesel producers, showcased a new biofuel in Hanover, Germany, as part of Lula’s visit.

($1 = 0.8499 euros)

Reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu and Isabel Teles; editing by Barbara Lewis

$50k donation keeps Eliza DoLittle pantry running

The donation from the Green Family will help sustain food assistance services at The Eliza DoLittle Society as the charity works toward a $200,000 fundraising goal

The Green Family has announced a $50,000 donation to The Eliza DoLittle Society, providing a significant boost to the charity’s fundraising efforts during a period of increased demand for food assistance.

The contribution comes after the society recently reduced pantry operations due to financial pressures and rising need. The donation will help sustain critical services while supporting the launch of a broader fundraising campaign aimed at reaching a $200,000 target.

Alexander Green said: “The Eliza DoLittle Society plays an essential role in supporting our community. In light of the growing demand, we felt it was important to act and contribute in a meaningful way. We are proud to support their important work across Bermuda.”

The Eliza DoLittle Society has operated for more than 20 years, supporting hundreds of families across the island. In the past four years alone, the organisation has assisted over 875 households, many facing unemployment, underemployment, or ongoing financial hardship.

Clare Mello-Robinson said: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Green Family for this extraordinarily generous donation. It provides immediate momentum for our fundraising campaign and strengthens our ability to serve families across Bermuda. We are deeply grateful for their patronage.”

Media release and image supplied.

UK’s Starmer orders review into security concerns from Mandelson’s time in office

Starmer told lawmakers it was staggering that he had not been told that Mandelson had failed his security vetting clearance, even when he ordered a review into the process

International News via Reuters:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday said he had asked the group overseeing security standards across government to examine any security concerns raised during Peter Mandelson’s tenure as ambassador to the United States.

Starmer told lawmakers it was staggering that he had not been told that Mandelson had failed his security vetting clearance, even when he ordered a review into the process.

“I can tell the house that I’ve now updated the terms of reference for the review into security vetting to make sure it covers the means by which all decisions are made in relation to national security vetting,” he said.

The British premier added: “Separately, I’ve asked the government security group in the Cabinet Office to look at any security concerns raised during Peter Mandelson’s tenure.”

Reporting by Muvija M and William James, writing by Sam Tabahriti, editing by Catarina Demony

Heartbreak and heroics: second seeds sweep STARR Bermuda Open

The 2026 STARR Bermuda Open reached a dramatic conclusion at the Bermuda Squash Club, as both second seeds staged remarkable runs to claim the championship titles.

The women’s final ended in an unexpected heartbreak for top seed Sabrina Sobhy. The world number 19 appeared to be closing in on the crown with a dominant two-set lead over Nadine Shahin.

However, with the score locked at 7-7 in the third, a sudden injury forced Sobhy to retire. The cruel turn of events handed the title to world number 47 Shahin, capping a week of clinical progression for the Egyptian.

In contrast, the men’s final was a grueling marathon that pushed both athletes to their physical limits. Second seed Miguel Rodriguez produced a masterclass in resilience to upset top seed Kareem El Torkey in a five-set thriller.

After falling 2-1 behind, the Colombian “Cannonball” found a second wind to take the fourth set 11-5, before sealing a famous 3-2 victory with an 11-7 finish in the decider.

The double success for the second seeds brings a curtain down on a landmark week in Devonshire, showcasing world-class squash and the unforgiving drama of the professional circuit.

Montgomery and Mcbrearty reign supreme in Devonshire

The W.E.R. Joell Memorial Tennis Tournament concluded in spectacular fashion as Wayne Montgomery and Chloe Mcbrearty swept the premier singles honors on a high-stakes Sunday.

In the Men’s A Final, Wayne Montgomery reaffirmed his status as the island’s dominant force. Facing a resilient Tariq Simons, Montgomery navigated a tense 7-5 opening set before shifting gears to secure the title with a clinical 6-1 finish.

While Simons fell short in the singles, he found redemption on the doubles court, partnering with David Thomas to edge out Sam Butler and Neal Towlson in a 6-4, 7-6 thriller.

The Ladies A Division belonged entirely to Chloe Mcbrearty. Continuing a flawless tournament run, she utilized a high-velocity forehand to dismantle the versatile Caitlin Conyers 6-1, 6-1.

In the B Divisions, Arianna Parra Delgado claimed a disciplined 6-3, 6-4 win over Samantha Morgan, while Will Britten outlasted Donn Trott in a competitive 6-3, 7-6 battle.

With a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, the 2026 edition at the W.E.R. Joell Tennis Stadium once again cemented its place as a vital pillar of the Bermudian sporting calendar.

Pope Leo decries exploitation by world’s ‘authoritarians’ during Angola trip

The first U.S. pope, who has drawn the ire of President Donald Trump with his more outspoken comments, told worshippers at a Mass in Saurimo that violence and oppression went against the Christian message

International News via Reuters:

Pope Leo lamented during an event in Angola on Monday that many people in the world were being “exploited by authoritarians and defrauded by the rich”, the latest example of a forceful new speaking style he has adopted on his four-nation Africa tour.

The first U.S. pope, who has drawn the ire of President Donald Trump with his more outspoken comments, told worshippers at a Mass in Saurimo, near the Democratic Republic of Congo border, that violence and oppression went against the Christian message.

“Every form of oppression, violence, exploitation and dishonesty negates the resurrection of Christ,” said the pontiff, referring to the core belief of Christianity that Jesus rose from the dead after being crucified.

His visit to Angola marks the third leg of an ambitious 10-day Africa tour, one of the most complicated ever conducted by a pope, with stops in 11 cities and towns in four countries, traversing nearly 18,000 km (11,185 miles) over 18 flights.

Leo, who became the head of the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church last May, kept a relatively low profile in the first 10 months of his papacy but has issued forceful denunciations of war and inequality during his Africa tour.

He has also repeatedly criticised world leaders, without naming individuals.

On Saturday the 70-year-old pontiff decried exploitation of natural resources in Africa by “despots and tyrants”. Last Thursday he said the world was “being ravaged by a handful of tyrants”.

The pope told journalists on Sunday that his speeches during the tour were written weeks ago and not aimed directly at Trump. He has strongly criticised the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, which began on February 28.

ENTHUSIASTIC CROWDS

Crowds in Angola, where 80% of the population identifies as Christian – and about half of them as Catholic – have been enthusiastic for Leo, with people lining streets along his routes and dancing and screaming to greet him.

Two events on Sunday, a Mass attended by throngs in a dirt field and a prayer at a site that was once a hub for transatlantic slavery, drew roughly 130,000 people.    

Monday is Leo’s last full day in Angola. He heads on Tuesday to Equatorial Guinea, the final leg of his Africa tour. 

He will give a speech there to the country’s political leaders after meeting with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has been in power since 1979, making him the world’s longest-serving president.

Equatorial Guinea is widely criticised as one of the most repressive countries in the region. The government denies allegations of human rights abuses and corruption.

Additional reporting by Joshua McElwee in LuandaEditing by Gareth Jones

Robinson finds rhythm in Ruston as Louisiana Tech host invitational

Bermudian sprinter Norre Robinson continued his upward trajectory this weekend, delivering a pair of disciplined performances for Louisiana Tech at the Jim Mize Invitational.

Competing in the Men’s 100m, the 18-year-old freshman navigated a high-caliber field to clock a solid 10.69.

Finishing 12th overall, the mark serves as a vital benchmark for Robinson as he continues his transition from a record-breaking junior career in Bermuda to the elite intensity of US collegiate sprinting.

However, it was in the 200m where the Bulldog standout truly shone. Utilizing the same bend-running endurance that took him to the World Under-20 Championships last year, Robinson powered home in 21.51 to secure a top-ten finish.

With consistent sub-11 and sub-22 second marks now on the board, Robinson appears to be finding his rhythm at precisely the right moment.

As the squad prepares for the LSU Alumni Gold in Baton Rouge, all eyes will be on the young Bermudian to see if he can shave further fractions off his times ahead of the Conference USA Championships.

Resilience and glory: Kappa Classic defies the storms

The 2026 Kappa Classic reached a spectacular conclusion at the National Sports Centre North Field, overcoming a week of turbulent weather to crown a new generation of champions.

Despite the meteorological setbacks, Bermuda’s premier youth showpiece delivered on its promise of high-stakes drama. In the flagship Under-15 Boys final, Somerset Trojans Red showcased clinical efficiency to sink the PHC Zebras 2-0.

The Zebras found swift redemption in the Girls’ U15 bracket, however, mirroring that scoreline against BFLA Blacks to lift the trophy.

FC Bascome emerged as the day’s big winners, securing a golden double. Their Under-13s displayed superior technical poise in a 2-0 win over PHC, while the Under-11 Blue squad edged a 2-1 thriller against Warwick Football Academy.

Warwick didn’t leave empty-handed, though, as their Under-13 Girls Independiente secured a gritty 1-0 victory to claim their divisional title.

The younger ranks provided the goals for a capacity crowd, with the Boulevard Blazers delivering a ruthless 5-0 masterclass in the Under-7 final.

As the sun set on the North Field, the 2026 edition stood as a testament to the island’s sporting resilience and a vital glimpse into the future of Bermudian football.

Convex End-to-End returns for 39th year with expanded charity support

Nine organisations to benefit as annual island-wide event

The 39th annual Convex End-to-End is set to return on Saturday, May 2, bringing together Bermuda’s community once again in support of local charities, with organisers promising an inclusive event designed for participants of all ages and abilities.

Registration is now open online at bermudaendtoend.bm. Volunteers are also being encouraged to sign up as road marshals ahead of the island-wide fundraiser.

This year, the event will support nine local charities, broadening its community impact, according to organisers.

Four organisations – Coalition for the Protection of Children, Dementia Bermuda, Knowledge Quest Ltd, and SkillCraft Bermuda – will each receive major grants of $50,000. A further five groups – Care Learning Centre, It Takes a Village, Bermuda Optimist Dinghy Association, Performance Pathways and Future Leaders Bermuda – will each benefit $10,000 from contributions.

Christen Styche, End-to-End Board Chair, said the expansion reflects the event’s continued growth.

“The End-to-End continues to grow alongside our community. By broadening our support this year, we’re able to make a meaningful difference across a wider range of organisations. Every step taken and every dollar raised helps strengthen these vital programmes,” she said.

Participants who raise funds will also be eligible for prizes, with a particular push to involve young people. Students can take part through their schools, with the $15,000 Deloitte Top School Prize awarded to the leading school, alongside the Butterfield Young Striders initiative aimed at increasing public school participation.

The event offers multiple route options, including the full 24.1-mile End-to-End challenge, the 14-mile Middle-to-End, and a 3-mile Fun Walk & Cycle geared towards families and first-time participants. More experienced athletes can attempt the End-to-End-to-End cycling route, which spans the island twice in a single day. Rowers and sailors will also be able to take part via water-based routes.

Ms Styche said the event’s appeal lies in its ability to unite the community.

“Each year, we see schools, corporate teams and community groups come together, alongside rowers, cyclists and walkers of all ages. However you choose to take part, you’ll be helping to support causes that make a meaningful difference to the Bermuda community,” she said.

All routes will conclude at the Victualling Yard in Dockyard, where participants will be welcomed with an End Zone celebration featuring entertainment, refreshments and activities.

Further details, including route maps, start times and transportation information, are available in the official event programme online.

Participants can also visit the Convex End-to-End Event Office, located at the Sunglass and Watch Shop on Reid Street, from April 27 to May 1 to collect race numbers, T-shirts and goodie bags. Extended hours will be in effect on April 29.

Marvell shares gain on report of deal talks with Google to develop two AI chips

The potential deal could involve two distinct chips: a memory processing unit to complement Google’s tensor processing unit and a new TPU built for running AI models

International News via Reuters:

Marvell Technology’s shares jumped 7% in premarket trading on Monday following a report that Alphabet’s Google is in talks with the chip designer to develop two new chips aimed at running AI models more efficiently.

The potential deal could involve two distinct chips: a memory processing unit to complement Google’s tensor processing unit and a new TPU built for running AI models, The Information reported on Sunday, citing two people with direct knowledge of the discussions.

Big Tech such as Google and Facebook-parent Meta are moving fast to reduce dependence on external chip suppliers by expanding their custom chip efforts.

Google deploys TPUs for training AI models and to respond to user queries, a process known as inferencing, and works with Broadcom to design its chips.

The report signals that Google might be looking to diversify from Broadcom amid surging demand for its chips as businesses seek alternatives to Nvidia’s pricey chips.

Google and Marvell did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

AI lab Anthropic uses a range of chips, including TPUs designed by Google, to develop and run its AI software and chatbot Claude.

Last week, Meta extended its deal with Broadcom to produce several generations of custom AI processors. The social media giant paid Broadcom $2.3 billion last year for AI chip design and related services.

Both Marvell and its larger rival Broadcom help clients with designing chips, as growing adoption of AI tools boost demand for specialized processors used in advanced data centers powering AI workloads.

Marvell trades at 33.35 times the estimates of its earnings for the next 12 months, compared with 27.84 for Broadcom.

Average stock rating of 44 analysts covering Marvell is “buy” and their median price target is $125, according to data compiled by LSEG.

Marvell is set to add more than $9 billion in its market value of $122.15 billion, if the premarket gains hold.

Reporting by Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur

Shipping traffic remains at virtual standstill through Hormuz, data shows

The oil products tanker Nero, which is under British sanctions for Russian oil activities, left the Gulf and was sailing through the Strait

FILE PHOTO: Cargo ships in the Gulf, near the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from northern Ras al-Khaimah, near the border with Oman’s Musandam governance, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in United Arab Emirates, March 11, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo

International News via Reuters:

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained at a virtual standstill on Monday with just three crossings in the space of 12 hours, according to shipping data.

The oil products tanker Nero, which is under British sanctions for Russian oil activities, left the Gulf and was sailing through the Strait, according to satellite analysis from data analytics specialists SynMax and tracking data from the Kpler platform.

Two other ships – a chemical tanker and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker – sailed into the Gulf through the critical waterway separately on Monday, the data showed.

The LPG tanker, Axon I, was under separate U.S. sanctions for Iran trading activities.

A ceasefire between the United States and Iran appeared in jeopardy on Monday after the U.S. said it had seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to run its blockade and Tehran vowed to retaliate, refusing for now to join new peace talks.

“Recent weeks have brought several false starts, and although some form of resolution is likely at some point, the timing of any durable breakthrough remains highly uncertain,” ship broker Clarksons said in a note on Monday.

Reporting by Jonathan Saul and Nerijus Adomaitis; Editing by Kevin Liffey