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  • Time for “status quo”change in Cuba- Irfaan Ali

    Time for “status quo”change in Cuba- Irfaan Ali

    In a significant foreign policy declaration, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali has publicly advocated for a fundamental transformation of Cuba’s political system towards democracy and freedom. Speaking on Fox News from Florida on Saturday, March 7, 2026, President Ali asserted that the current political status quo in Cuba cannot persist indefinitely.

    ‘The consensus is clear that the existing situation cannot remain unchanged,’ stated Dr. Ali during his television appearance. ‘We recognize the necessity for modification and acknowledge that implementation will require time.’ The Guyanese leader emphasized that any transition must ultimately benefit the Cuban population through improved living conditions, strengthened rule of law, and greater democratic freedoms.

    President Ali’s remarks coincided with his participation in the Shield of the Americas Summit, where he joined U.S. President Donald Trump and numerous Latin American and Caribbean leaders in signing a proclamation targeting cartel criminal operations.

    This diplomatic positioning occurs against the backdrop of shifting regional alliances, as several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations gradually disengage from Cuba’s Medical Brigade program. This disengagement follows U.S. warnings last year about potential visa revocations for government officials and their families from participating countries. American authorities have characterized Cuba’s medical deployment program as a form of forced labor comparable to human trafficking.

    The Caribbean bloc, acknowledging its complex relationships with both Cuba and the United States, recently concluded its February summit in St. Kitts with a commitment to participate in initiatives benefiting the Cuban people while maintaining regional stability.

    Jamaica’s recent termination of its medical cooperation agreement with Cuba has drawn strong criticism from Havana, which accused the Jamaican government of succumbing to U.S. pressure. The Cuban Foreign Ministry maintained that this decision would deprive Jamaicans of quality healthcare and reaffirmed Cuba’s ‘unwavering commitment to the Jamaican people.’

    Meanwhile, Guyana has quietly restructured its engagement with Cuban healthcare professionals by dismantling the Medical Brigade program framework and opting instead for direct employment arrangements.

  • Vincy Heat head coach Ezra Hendrickson resigns

    Vincy Heat head coach Ezra Hendrickson resigns

    In a significant development for Caribbean football, Ezra Hendrickson has stepped down from his position as head coach of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Senior Men’s National Football Team, Vincy Heat. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) officially confirmed the coaching change in a Saturday announcement.

    The Federation disclosed that Hendrickson’s departure comes after he received and accepted an unspecified professional opportunity that necessitated his resignation. SVGFF administration has accepted his decision while expressing gratitude for his dedicated service and commitment to developing the national team program.

    According to the Federation’s press release, Hendrickson’s recently concluded assignment with the Under-20 Men’s team effectively marked his final engagement with SVGFF, consistent with the terms of his agreement. The transition plan is already underway, with Wade Jackson, previously serving as first assistant coach for the Senior Men’s National Team, appointed as interim head coach during this period of change.

    Jackson will immediately assume leadership responsibilities, guiding the national squad in the upcoming CONCACAF Series Friendlies in Bonaire. The team is scheduled to compete against the Bonaire national football team on March 26, followed by a match against Barbados’ national squad on March 29.

    The SVGFF has initiated the process of identifying a permanent replacement to lead the Senior Men’s National Team forward. Federation officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining continuity and stability within the national program while preparing for upcoming international competitions.

    In their official statement, the Federation extended appreciation for Hendrickson’s contributions to football development in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and wished him success in his future professional endeavors.

  • Jagesar: Olieprijs stijgt ook in Suriname door oorlog rond Iran

    Jagesar: Olieprijs stijgt ook in Suriname door oorlog rond Iran

    Suriname’s state oil company anticipates significant economic repercussions from the Middle East conflict, with director Annand Jagesar confirming that rising global oil prices will directly impact domestic fuel costs. The escalating tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel have triggered international market volatility, driving oil prices upward as investors anticipate potential supply disruptions from the critical oil-producing region.

    Jagesar explained that while increased oil prices will boost government revenues through the ‘government take’ mechanism—where approximately 68 cents of every dollar flows to state coffers—this financial gain comes with complex socioeconomic implications. The Staatsolie director dismissed suggestions that locally produced oil should translate to lower consumer prices, revealing that domestic refining capacity meets less than half of national gasoline demand. With daily consumption at 5,000 barrels versus a maximum production of 2,300 barrels, Suriname must import the substantial balance.

    The oil executive cautioned against artificial price suppression, citing Venezuela’s experience where decades of ultra-low fuel prices created unsustainable economic distortions. He emphasized that market-based pricing serves as crucial signals for energy transition, encouraging consumers and businesses to seek alternatives when prices rise. However, Jagesar advocated for targeted subsidies to protect vulnerable populations, particularly seniors living on fixed incomes, from bearing the brunt of energy cost increases.

    Global analysts warn that further disruptions to Middle Eastern oil trade could drive prices even higher, creating both revenue opportunities and affordability challenges for oil-producing nations like Suriname.

  • H2O Lions Swim Club impresses at SAC Invitational Championship

    H2O Lions Swim Club impresses at SAC Invitational Championship

    The H2O Lions Swim Club, despite being the youngest and smallest contingent at the competition, delivered an impressive display of athletic prowess at the SAC Invitational Championship. Held from February 26th to March 1st at the Shewsbury Aquatic Centre, the event brought together premier swimming talent from St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    The club’s performance was marked by significant milestones, with every single swimmer achieving new personal best times. This uniform improvement underscored the effectiveness of their training regimen and the swimmers’ dedicated pursuit of excellence. The team’s cohesion was particularly visible in the relay events, where synchronized effort propelled their success.

    A notable roster of athletes secured podium finishes in their respective age categories. Standout performers included J’nyah Rose, K’mar Rose, Ezron Quashie, Tyler Forde, Nial Allen, Tezza Sutherland, Rhonyah Jack, Trey Forde, and Kyle DeRoche. Their achievements signal the club’s ascending trajectory and growing force within the regional swimming community.

    The coaching staff, comprising Josel Williams, Elise Quashie, Odonza Dennie, and Sandra Paulemon, lauded the team’s discipline and resilience. They emphasized that each individual record broken was a testament to the squad’s collective spirit and hard work. Gratitude was also extended to the parents and supporters whose unwavering encouragement forms the backbone of the club’s endeavors.

    Buoyed by this successful outing and the valuable competitive experience gained, the H2O Lions are now channeling their momentum towards preparation for upcoming regional competitions, aiming to build on their newly fortified confidence.

  • SLFS: Hazardous materials, restricted access, complicated Computer World fire

    SLFS: Hazardous materials, restricted access, complicated Computer World fire

    Firefighters in Saint Lucia confronted significant operational challenges while combating a major fire that completely destroyed the Orange Park Commercial Centre in Bois d’Orange on Friday night. The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) reported that the blaze, which erupted at approximately 8:54 p.m. on March 6, required an extensive multi-unit response from stations across Gros Islet, Babonneau, George Charles, and Fire Service Headquarters.

    The firefighting operation faced substantial complications due to restricted building access and the presence of dangerous materials within the structure, notably chemical storage containers and energy storage equipment containing batteries. According to official statements, the rapid fire progression necessitated a multi-point attack strategy to contain the spreading flames.

    The entire commercial building, known for housing Computer World and other businesses, sustained extensive damage in the incident. Although authorities declared the fire contained by Saturday morning, crews remained on site addressing persistent reignition spots until the structure could fully cool.

    While the exact cause remains under investigation, fire officials issued a specific warning regarding lithium-ion battery technologies, noting their potential for continuous reignition and limited responsiveness to conventional extinguishing agents. The SLFS emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the risks associated with these modern technologies.

    The fire service extended gratitude to the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO), utility provider LUCELEC, and cooperative members of the public for their assistance during the emergency response operation.

  • They came for us and no one is speaking for us

    They came for us and no one is speaking for us

    A profound human rights crisis is unfolding in the Caribbean Sea as the United States continues its campaign of extrajudicial executions under the guise of combating drug trafficking. Drawing direct parallels to Martin Niemöller’s famous lament about Nazi-era complacency, Caribbean intellectuals and citizens are now confronting their own leadership’s silence in the face of American military operations that violate international law.

    The operations, characterized by drone strikes on suspected drug smuggling vessels, occur without due process, evidence preservation, or consultation with regional authorities. These actions represent flagrant violations of multiple international conventions, including the UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs, which explicitly requires proper boarding procedures and evidence collection rather than summary executions.

    Evidence suggests these operations may serve geopolitical objectives beyond drug interdiction. Academic research indicates 84% of cocaine seized in the US originates from Colombia, not Venezuela, raising questions about the true motivation behind targeting Venezuelan-linked vessels. Dr. Emmanuel Quashie and other analysts argue this constitutes a deliberate strategy to destabilize the Maduro regime and control Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, the largest in the world.

    The Caribbean response has been hampered by economic fragility and historical power imbalances. Regional leaders often hide behind diplomatic niceties and plausible deniability, fearing economic fallout from confronting Washington. This complicity mirrors the very behavior Niemöller condemned in his famous poem about the Holocaust, where silence in the face of injustice ultimately enabled greater atrocities.

    Legal experts emphasize that even confirmed drug traffickers deserve proper judicial processes. The US approach of maritime executions contradicts its own domestic legal standards and international human rights obligations. The destruction of alleged evidence in drone strikes further undermines any claim to legitimate law enforcement.

    The solution, regional advocates argue, lies in strengthened Caribbean cooperation through organizations like CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) and the Regional Security System. This would include developing local capacity for interdiction operations, establishing proper safeguards, and pursuing diplomatic channels to end the illegal executions. The Caribbean must reaffirm its status as a zone of peace while addressing legitimate security concerns through lawful means that respect human dignity and international standards.

  • Update: Barbados airspace reopens after disruption

    Update: Barbados airspace reopens after disruption

    Barbados’ primary aviation hub has resumed full operations following a temporary closure that disrupted air travel on Saturday. Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) authorities confirmed the facility reopened at 2:30 PM local time after several hours of suspended services.

    The airspace closure, which affected all inbound and outbound flights, appears connected to labor-related actions though official sources have not yet confirmed the specific nature of the disruption. Airport management issued a statement acknowledging the operational pause while refraining from detailed commentary on the underlying causes.

    Travelers experienced significant schedule interruptions throughout the day, with many flights subject to delays or cancellations. Airport officials have recommended that affected passengers directly contact their airlines for updated flight information and rebooking options. The resumption of operations follows a gradual normalization process with authorities working to clear the backlog of disrupted flights.

    As one of the Caribbean’s key transportation hubs, the temporary closure had regional implications for connecting flights throughout the Eastern Caribbean network. The incident highlights the vulnerability of island nations to aviation disruptions given their reliance on air connectivity for tourism and commerce.

  • Professor Mohamed winds down as UG Vice Chancellor

    Professor Mohamed winds down as UG Vice Chancellor

    The University of Guyana (UG) has initiated a comprehensive international search for a new Vice Chancellor as Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin prepares to conclude her groundbreaking six-year tenure. The institution’s first female Vice Chancellor, appointed in June 2020, has publicly endorsed the recruitment process while encouraging qualified candidates to apply for the position.

    UG’s governing Council has established April 17, 2026, as the application deadline, seeking a transformational academic leader capable of positioning the university as a center of research excellence and regional influence. The advertisement emphasizes the need for someone who can navigate Guyana’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, characterized by unprecedented energy production growth, infrastructure modernization, and increasing global engagement.

    The ideal candidate should possess experience within Caribbean regional contexts or developing country environments, though distinguished international academics are also encouraged to apply. The incoming Vice Chancellor will be expected to strengthen governance clarity, enhance accountability, and support strategic reforms aligned with the university’s statutory mandate.

    Professor Mohamed-Martin’s departure follows recent high-level appointments at UG, including Dr. Randy Persaud as Pro-Chancellor and Guyana-born diplomat Sir Ronald Sanders as Chancellor. Her distinguished 19-year career at the institution included serving as Chair of the Transitional Management Committee, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement, and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

    The university emphasizes its critical role in supporting Guyana’s economic transformation through advanced human capital development, expanded research capacity, and strengthened innovation ecosystems. This leadership transition occurs during one of the most dynamic periods of economic growth and structural transformation in the Caribbean and Latin American region.

  • 17 early childhood learning centres receive media and Learning equipment from IsraAID

    17 early childhood learning centres receive media and Learning equipment from IsraAID

    In a significant advancement for educational infrastructure and disaster preparedness, IsraAID Dominica has formally delivered state-of-the-art media and learning equipment to 17 early childhood education centers across the island nation. This strategic donation represents a holistic approach to merging interactive pedagogical tools with critical emergency response capabilities for Dominica’s youngest students.

    The official handover ceremony gathered prominent education officials, school administrators, and educators to witness the distribution of technological resources including compact projectors, projection screens, Bluetooth audio systems, and high-powered megaphones. These instruments serve a dual function: enhancing classroom engagement through digital learning while providing reliable communication channels during safety drills and actual emergencies.

    IsraAID Country Director Velma Moses Joseph articulated the profound significance behind the initiative during her keynote address. “While the equipment may appear straightforward, its underlying purpose carries substantial weight,” Joseph remarked. “These resources are engineered to foster more dynamic learning environments, facilitate clear communication during crises, and empower schools to maintain optimally prepared and secure settings for their students.”

    A cornerstone of this initiative involves the implementation of the Kay and Kelan Early Childhood Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Toolkit, an innovative educational framework that employs narrative storytelling and gameplay to introduce hazard awareness and preparedness concepts to preschool-aged children. Numerous recipient institutions participated in the toolkit’s pilot phase, contributing valuable insights that shaped its deployment throughout Eastern Caribbean nations.

    Education ministry representatives expressed profound appreciation for IsraAID’s comprehensive methodology. Assistant Early Childhood Development Officer Ginelle Ferrol acknowledged the organization’s multifaceted support: “We extend gratitude to IsraAID not merely for material contributions but for the complementary workshops, informational resources, and knowledge transfer. This holistic approach delivers immense value to our educational institutions, educators, and most importantly, our children.”

    Echoing this sentiment, Assistant Chief Education Officer Nadia Ferrol emphasized the initiative’s long-term impact: “IsraAID’s dedication to strengthening Dominica’s educational foundation during these formative years will undoubtedly influence the development of our future leaders and citizens. These technological assets will immediately enrich the educational journey for our students, particularly early learners, by making instruction more captivating, innovative, and participatory.”

    The Country Director concluded by emphasizing the importance of equipment maintenance to ensure longevity across multiple student generations, noting that when children disseminate safety knowledge within their households, entire communities develop enhanced resilience.

    This project constitutes part of IsraAID’s enduring commitment to Dominica, transitioning from immediate crisis intervention to sustainable capacity building and grassroots disaster awareness cultivation.

    Participating institutions include: Goodnews Pre-school, Seneku Pre-school, Lighthouse Academy, Mahaut River Pre-school, Salybia Pre-school, Atkinson Primary School, Concord Primary School, Grandfond Pre-school, Morne Jaune Primary School, Jones Beaupiere Primary School, Delices Primary School, San Sauveur Pre-school, Pilgrim Pre-school, Castle Bruce Primary School, Belles Primary School, Warner Primary School, and Isulukati Pre-school.

  • Belcan or Haulover? Fans Have Options Now

    Belcan or Haulover? Fans Have Options Now

    In an unprecedented development for Central American sporting traditions, the 2026 La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge has created a remarkable scenario with two simultaneous finish locations. The four-day canoe marathon, currently in its second day of competition, will now feature dual celebration points for Monday’s finale.

    The Belize Canoe Association confirmed through an official morning announcement that despite the previously declared relocation to Haulover Bridge near Grand Resort, the traditional Belcan Bridge finish in Belize City will remain operational. Caribbean International Brewery Co. Ltd. has committed to hosting spectator activities at the original location starting at 1:00 p.m., ensuring that urban supporters can witness paddlers crossing the historic finish line.

    Organizers emphasized that the Belcan Bridge venue will offer full spectator amenities including vendor services and entertainment options, maintaining the event’s traditional atmosphere. This compromise emerges following significant opposition from participants and traditionalists who protested the official relocation decision.

    The 29th edition of this iconic river race thus enters its final stages with an unusual configuration: competitive paddlers will officially finish at the newly designated Haulover Bridge, while simultaneously, celebration events and a ceremonial crossing will occur at the traditional Belcan location. This dual arrangement represents an innovative solution to preserve historical continuity while accommodating organizational changes.