PHILIPSBURG:--- The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is inviting local contractors and consultants to an informative session on bidding for an upcoming Sanitation (WASH) project in the Dutch Quarter. 

Led by the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) and implemented by UNOPS, this project builds upon the 9th and 10th EDF cycles, which initiated sanitation improvements in the Dutch Quarter. It represents a continuation of the program to modernize collective sewage and stormwater drainage in the area. The WASH project forms part of the Government of Sint Maarten’s broader commitment to strengthening essential public infrastructure and promoting sustainable development, particularly in densely populated areas. The works will be carried out with careful coordination and ongoing communication with residents as the project progresses.

To ensure this project benefits the local economy, UNOPS will host a webinar on April 21, 10:00 AM. The goal is to engage the local market and equip local firms with the technical and digital tools required to successfully bid on the project. 

The webinar is specifically tailored for construction companies with proven sanitation experience in Sint Maarten, as well as engineering and consulting firms specializing in the supervision of island-based sanitation projects. The webinar will feature an in-depth look at the project’s scope, requirements and timelines, as well as a comprehensive walkthrough of UNOPS procurement platforms, explaining compliance standards and the specific criteria used to evaluate bids. 

Interested parties should contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register. 

Background. Dutch Quarter, situated in the Upper Princess Quarter Region of Sint Maarten and bordering the French side, is a densely populated area with a major road network that connects five larger communities, including Madam Estate, Middle Region, Belvedere, and Belle Plaine (French St. Martin). This road network facilitates movement for residents, visitors, and businesses. 

In addition to its roadways, Dutch Quarter manages stormwater runoff, directing water from elevated areas to lower regions, including the Middle Region District and much of the Defiance area, both located within the Dutch Quarter Basin. Existing water and sanitation infrastructure in the area had reached the end of its lifespan, increasing the need for a durable and sustainable solution. Minister Patrice Gumbs encourages all contractors to take part in this very critical project as we move to finalize the long-awaited sewage projects in the Dutch quarter. 

The new WASH project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), contributing to improved health outcomes and long-term environmental protection. The official launch reaffirms the Government of Sint Maarten’s commitment to delivering essential infrastructure that strengthens public services, protects communities, and promotes sustainable development across the island.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 2026 Sint Maarten Biodiversity Fest has been officially scheduled and will take place over the weekend of April 25–26, 2026. The two-day event promises a fun-filled program featuring engaging activities designed to help participants discover the island and enjoy its incredible biodiversity.

The 2026 Biodiversity Fest is organized by the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten and sponsored by Vogelbescherming Nederland, with support from local partners including Les Fruits de Mer and The Scuba Shop. Several environmental organizations will partner with the Nature Foundation to promote environmental awareness on the island.

Residents and visitors of all ages are welcome to participate. However, many activities have limited capacity and require advanced registration.

The program includes three activities on Saturday and two on Sunday, offering a diverse range of experiences for participants.

“These events help a wider audience discover, learn about, and better understand the importance of maintaining healthy biodiversity,” stated the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten. “This annual event invites residents and visitors to explore and celebrate Sint Maarten’s rich biodiversity through a series of engaging and educational initiatives.”

The 2026 Sint Maarten Biodiversity Fest will kick off on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with a beginner-friendly hike to the natural pools in the Point Blanche area. Following the hike, a free shuttle will transport participants to Amuseum Naturalis, where attendees will take part in an interactive exploration of the world of snails and participate in the Endemic Species Festival activities. In the evening, participants can enjoy a family-friendly activity focused on exploring nocturnal animals and their habitats.

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, participants will gather at The Scuba Shop in Simpson Bay for a guided snorkeling tour to discover the island’s underwater ecosystems and their relationships with the coastal biodiversity. The festival will conclude later that day with an ocean documentary screening at Van Dorp Spaces in Simpson Bay.

For more information on the Biodiversity Fest or any other events, please visit our website (https://naturefoundationsxm.org/2026-biodiversity-fest/) and our social media pages. 

We are also available by email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call our office at +1 (721) 544-4267

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), COVID, would like to inform the general public that the clinic at the CPS Offices at the Vineyard Building Office Park in Philipsburg is open for COVID vaccines by appointment only, and the next available date is April 17.

The CPS clinic is open for COVID vaccines for persons aged 12 and older on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Due to limited supply, CPS is requesting persons to call or email for an appointment by calling 914 (option 4) or 542-1570, or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The booster is entirely free of charge and voluntary.

Please bring your vaccination card and a form of Identification (ID) when you have an appointment.
The COVID-19 virus has not disappeared. While the peak of the pandemic is in the past, the virus remains an active presence.
Routine prevention remains essential for public safety.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season.

With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety.

Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within a 24-hour period.

Unsafe food handling poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis can spread easily when bacteria from contaminated hands, surfaces, or food is transferred to others. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the restroom, can lead to the contamination of utensils, food, and other commonly touched items.

CPS emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of illness. Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing or consuming food.

Surfaces such as kitchen counters should be cleaned regularly and disinfected using appropriate solutions. Practicing good cough etiquette and maintaining overall cleanliness are also essential preventive measures.

Food handlers and consumers are also reminded to prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring proper food storage.

Temperature control is critical—food should be kept out of the “danger zone” where bacteria can multiply rapidly. If food appears spoiled or has been exposed to improper temperatures, it should be discarded immediately.

Individuals diagnosed with gastroenteritis are advised to remain at home, follow medical guidance, and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others. CPS encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and the community.

As Carnival 2026 gets underway, CPS calls on all residents and visitors to prioritize food safety and hygiene. By taking simple preventive steps, the community can help ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable festive season for all.

For more information call CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322 and 542-1570; or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.