Carib Scope

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  • Guyana signs agreement to expand military cooperation with US

    Guyana signs agreement to expand military cooperation with US

    In a significant move to bolster regional security, Guyana has formalized an expanded military cooperation agreement with the United States. The pact, endorsed following high-level discussions in Georgetown, signals a strategic realignment of US defense priorities toward the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Western Hemisphere.

    President Irfaan Ali confirmed the agreement after meeting with key US defense officials, including Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War Patrick Weaver and Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Joseph Humire. The arrangement establishes a framework for intensified joint military operations while expressly respecting both nations’ sovereignty and legal systems.

    This development represents the operationalization of Washington’s new ‘Southern Spear’ security initiative, which calls for increased strategic attention and resource allocation to CARICOM nations. The agreement specifically enhances existing mechanisms like the Shiprider Agreement, enabling US security forces to pursue, intercept, and board vessels suspected of drug trafficking within Guyanese territorial waters.

    When questioned about the potential for a full defense treaty, President Ali characterized the agreement as an ‘evolving process,’ indicating that more substantive cooperation agreements would be discussed in coming months.

    The timing of this military accord follows President Ali’s emphatic statements about safeguarding regional stability. In talks with Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, Ali highlighted concerns about criminal exploitation of Guyanese airspace and waterways for illicit activities. He emphasized the necessity of international partnerships to combat transnational crime and ensure long-term regional security for future generations.

  • Business Baddie offering support for female entrepreneurs

    Business Baddie offering support for female entrepreneurs

    A transformative entrepreneurial movement is gaining momentum in Barbados, offering a structured antidote to the isolation many women face in business. Business Baddie, a pioneering support network founded by attorney and former educator Kerrilyn Walters, provides female entrepreneurs with the practical tools and community accountability needed to transform ideas into successful enterprises.

    Established in 2021 as a modest consulting initiative, the organization has evolved into a structured membership group that deliberately maintains an intimate size—currently approximately 13 members—to ensure meaningful engagement and personalized support. Walters, who serves as Chief Business Baddie Officer, conceived the idea drawing from her previous experience running a baking business before entering the legal profession.

    The program’s core methodology centers on hands-on, practical workshops conducted monthly, covering essential business skills including marketing strategy, content creation, financial planning, budgeting, and operational scheduling. Unlike conventional seminars where participants passively receive information, Business Baddie sessions require active implementation—members literally plan their content calendars or develop marketing strategies during workshops.

    A distinctive feature of the program is its accountability partnership system, where members are paired and rotated quarterly to maintain fresh perspectives and consistent motivation. This structure ensures participants remain committed to their stated business objectives despite life’s inevitable distractions.

    The community extends beyond formal workshops through active WhatsApp communication, creating a continuous support network where members receive prompt responses to queries and challenges. This approach has demonstrated tangible results, with one member successfully transitioning from a home-based operation to establishing a standalone salon.

    While currently maintaining its boutique size, the organization welcomes women across all age groups and business development stages—from those seriously contemplating entrepreneurship to established business owners seeking growth. The group is preparing to launch its third cohort in 2026, with new initiatives to be announced at their upcoming members’ dinner at Radisson Aquatica Resort on December 14.

    Business Baddie primarily operates through its Instagram platform @businessbaddiebb, maintaining an accessible digital presence while fostering genuine, substantive connections that address the critical support gap in female entrepreneurship.

  • Governor-General And Lady Williams Express Condolences On The Passing Of Sir Gerald Watt, Kcn, Kc

    Governor-General And Lady Williams Express Condolences On The Passing Of Sir Gerald Watt, Kcn, Kc

    The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the passing of Sir Gerald Owen Anderson Watt, KCN, KC, a towering figure in the country’s legal and political landscape. His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Williams have issued official condolences expressing profound sorrow at the loss of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

    In their tribute, the Governor-General and Lady Williams highlighted Sir Gerald’s exceptional decades-long career in public service, during which he held multiple prestigious positions including Attorney General, Parliamentarian, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association. His most notable role as long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives spanned over a decade, where he demonstrated remarkable dedication to parliamentary procedures and democratic principles.

    Renowned for his formidable legal intellect and spirited demeanor, Sir Gerald was celebrated for his unwavering convictions and readiness to engage in vigorous debate. His distinctive combination of intellectual rigor and outspoken nature brought substantial clarity and courage to critical national discussions concerning legal frameworks, governance structures, and constitutional matters. This significant contribution played a pivotal role in strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic institutions.

    Throughout his distinguished career—whether in parliamentary chambers, courtrooms, or public forums—Sir Gerald consistently commanded respect for his principled positions and steadfast commitment to advancing the nation’s best interests. His tenure as Speaker was particularly noted for its passion, thoroughness, and profound respect for the responsibilities inherent to the office.

    The Governor-General and Lady Williams emphasized that Sir Gerald’s legacy of exemplary public service, intellectual bravery, and national devotion will endure in the nation’s collective memory. His absence will be deeply felt across the legal and political spheres.

    Their Excellencies have extended heartfelt sympathies to the Watt family, offering assurances of prayers and support during this period of profound loss and reflection for the nation.

  • ABEC pays tribute to the late Sir Gerald Watt KC, former Chairman of ABEC

    ABEC pays tribute to the late Sir Gerald Watt KC, former Chairman of ABEC

    The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has announced the passing of its former chairman, Sir Gerald Watt, KC, who died on December 13, 2025. The commission expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and professional associates.

    Sir Gerald’s transformative leadership as ABEC Chairman from 2004 to 2009 fundamentally reshaped the nation’s electoral governance. During this formative period, he established critical administrative structures and operational protocols that became the bedrock of electoral integrity in Antigua and Barbuda. His tenure was characterized by visionary reforms that modernized the commission while strengthening public trust in democratic processes.

    Current Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes emphasized Sir Gerald’s exceptional contributions, noting his ‘principled leadership and sound judgment’ that established robust governance frameworks. ‘His vision and steady counsel laid a strong foundation upon which the Commission continues to build,’ Hughes stated, highlighting the enduring legacy of professionalism and dedication.

    Ambassador Arthur G.B Thomas, current ABEC Chairman, contextualized Sir Gerald’s impact within a challenging political landscape. ‘He joined during a pivotal stage when modern electoral administration was still being defined,’ Thomas remarked, acknowledging how Sir Gerald navigated heightened political polarization through frank dialogue and ethical conviction.

    Renowned for his legal expertise and unwavering impartiality, Sir Gerald became a towering figure in the commission’s history. His approach combined fairness, independence, and profound respect for the rule of law, setting exemplary standards that continue to guide ABEC’s operations. His calm authority and strategic reforms left an indelible mark on electoral administration and democratic governance throughout the nation.

  • Saint Lucian director sees opportunity – and risk – in Netflix’s big move

    Saint Lucian director sees opportunity – and risk – in Netflix’s big move

    The entertainment industry stands at a pivotal juncture as Netflix’s ambitious pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery threatens to reshape Hollywood’s competitive landscape. This potential acquisition, potentially the most significant in film industry history, would place iconic franchises including Game of Thrones, DC Comics, Harry Potter, and HBO’s prestigious content library under Netflix’s dominion, positioning the streaming service as an unprecedented entertainment omnipotent.

    Amidst this corporate maneuvering, independent filmmakers express both optimism and apprehension. Elijah Anatole, Saint Lucian filmmaker and founder of Artlas Studios, currently negotiating with Netflix for his project ‘Heartfall,’ provides unique perspective on the implications for global indie cinema.

    The acquisition faces substantial hurdles, including Paramount’s competing $108 billion hostile takeover bid and potential antitrust scrutiny from the Justice Department. Political considerations further complicate matters, with former President Trump’s connections to Paramount ownership potentially influencing outcomes.

    Anatole recognizes potential benefits: ‘Netflix already provides independent filmmakers access previously unimaginable through traditional studios. This merger could revolutionize content development, ownership, and global distribution paradigms.’ He cites Netflix’s promotion of African cinema as evidence of their commitment to diverse global voices.

    However, significant concerns regarding market monopoly persist. ‘The danger lies in Netflix gaining excessive market control, potentially leading to increased subscription prices and unfavorable terms for independent creators,’ Anatole cautions. ‘When alternatives disappear, acceptance becomes mandatory.’

    Contrary to hopes for enhanced development programs, Anatole believes streaming giants prioritize finished products over creator development: ‘They seek content that drives subscriptions, not philanthropic initiatives.’ The merger would intensify competition as Netflix gains Warner Bros.’ extensive content library, forcing independents to elevate their production standards.

    Looking forward five years, Anatole predicts Netflix will dominate global entertainment while fundamentally transforming content consumption. ‘Traditional movie theaters may become obsolete as advanced home viewing technologies like VR goggles replace flat screens. COVID-19 permanently altered viewing habits, with few films achieving billion-dollar box office returns recently.’

    Despite challenges, Anatole remains hopeful the merger could stimulate creative opportunities while motivating filmmakers to enhance their craft. As a personal aspiration, he expresses desire for Netflix to revive Zack Snyder’s DC universe alongside James Gunn’s interpretation.

    Independent filmmakers like Anatole are actively shaping cinema’s future rather than observing passively. His upcoming film ‘OMYRA’ has already secured selection for the 2026 Chandler Film Festival, demonstrating indie resilience amid industry consolidation.

  • PM Cup players get major prizes during Flow visit

    PM Cup players get major prizes during Flow visit

    In a significant celebration of sporting excellence and corporate social responsibility, telecommunications leader Flow hosted the newly crowned 2025 Prime Minister’s Cup champions, Weymouth Wales FC, at their Warrens corporate headquarters. The event highlighted the transformative power of sports in community development across Barbados.

    The championship team, guided by Manager Alphonso Lewis, Coach Asquith Howell, Physiotherapist Chantelle Braithwaite, and Captain Hadan Holligan, engaged in productive discussions with Flow’s senior leadership team led by Vice-President and General Manager Desron Bynoe. The gathering also included key members of the Prime Minister’s Cup Organizing Committee, Chairman Omari Eastmond and Marketing Strategist Danielle Toppin.

    Flow demonstrated its substantial commitment through both financial investment and premium technological rewards. The company contributed approximately $30,000 in direct support for tournament activities and player development. Each member of the victorious Weymouth Wales squad received a share of $5,000 in recognition of their championship performance.

    Individual excellence received special acknowledgment with top-tier technology awards. Andre Applewhaite, honored as both Most Valuable Player and Best Defender, received a cutting-edge iPhone 17. Jamarco Johnson from runners-up Kickstart Rush, celebrated as Best Young Player, was presented with a Samsung S25 tablet. The fan community participated in the celebrations as well, with Tibu Johnson winning an Apple iPad through the Flow Fan Prize initiative.

    During the ceremony, Bynoe emphasized the broader significance of the team’s achievement: ‘At a time when our communities need positive examples, what you have achieved shines a bright light. Your undefeated season after last year’s disappointment demonstrates remarkable discipline and character.’ He encouraged the players to ‘remain humble, lift as you climb, and pass your knowledge to younger generations.’

    Shane Archer, Project Manager for the Prime Minister’s Cup, applauded Flow’s ongoing commitment: ‘Flow’s involvement demonstrates how powerfully Corporate Barbados can stand with young athletes. Their investment rewards hard work, uplifts communities, and helps create brighter futures. I urge other businesses to emulate this exemplary model of community support.’

    The partnership represents Flow’s strategic dedication to youth development and community enrichment through sports sponsorship, establishing a benchmark for corporate citizenship in Barbados.

  • Jamaican Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    Jamaican Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    The Jamaican government has significantly escalated its financial response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, approving a substantial $42 million injection for small business rehabilitation. This emergency funding targets parishes that sustained severe damage when the hurricane struck on October 28, 2025.

    Senator Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, detailed the comprehensive recovery plan during a December 5 senate address. The reconstruction initiative will focus on critically affected areas including Middle Quarters in St. Elizabeth, along with designated zones in St. James, Trelawny, and Hanover.

    This latest allocation builds upon previous government support, supplementing a $20 million package approved on November 10 that facilitated restoration of 44 retail establishments in Border, St. Elizabeth. The engineering enhancements incorporate hurricane-resilient designs featuring concrete foundations and specialized roof anchoring systems to withstand future extreme weather events.

    Infrastructure improvements extend to flood mitigation measures, with boulder-and-concrete revetments currently under construction behind commercial properties. The renovation specifications additionally encompass modernized kitchen facilities, customer seating areas, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

    Parallel to structural repairs, the ministry is implementing an emergency power solution through generator distribution to community shops across affected regions. Procurement processes have secured 15 generators thus far, with an additional 25 units in the acquisition phase. The initial deployment prioritized St. James parish, where 11 gasoline-powered generators were distributed to sustain businesses lacking refrigeration capabilities for perishable goods and beverages.

    Comprehensive damage assessments conducted between November 10 and December 1, 2025 identified 1,293 businesses requiring intervention. Notably, evaluations in Accompong Maroon village revealed 25 enterprises needing repairs, with wooden structures completely destroyed and concrete buildings experiencing extensive roof damage. While some establishments maintain partial operations, consistent power access remains critical, prompting the ministry’s ongoing generator installation program to facilitate commercial reactivation.

  • Still making Christmas – even at ‘these prices’

    Still making Christmas – even at ‘these prices’

    Faced with persistently rising supermarket prices, Barbadian families are demonstrating remarkable ingenuity to maintain cherished Christmas traditions while navigating economic pressures. Across the island, households are adopting diverse strategies ranging from home cultivation of ingredients to strategic cross-border shopping, fundamentally redefining their holiday preparations.

    At Popular Discounts in Kendal Hill, a steady flow of shoppers carried essential provisions including meats, fruits, and baking materials, indicating advanced stages of seasonal preparation. This scene reflects a broader trend of resourcefulness becoming essential for holiday celebrations.

    Elsa Marshall, mother of five, exemplifies this adaptive approach through heightened self-sufficiency. “I maintain focus on fundamental necessities,” she explained, noting her commitment to providing homemade cakes and treats despite financial constraints. Her calculus extends beyond immediate savings: “A $50 purchased cake represents three homemade equivalents, plus saved supermarket time and avoided queues – time is money.” Marshall supplements her kitchen with backyard-grown seasonings, though she acknowledges persistent financial strain despite three working adults in her household.

    Budget-conscious strategies vary across households. Ericson Thomas emphasizes comparative shopping across different supermarkets to optimize expenditures, while maintaining traditional menus including ham, chicken, and turkey for expected guests. Heather Bostic adopts a minimalist philosophy, concentrating on essentials while acknowledging ongoing financial obligations. “The extravagance would be a ham,” she remarked with laughter, emphasizing modest vegetable additions and children’s treats without excess.

    Some residents undertake extraordinary measures, with Mrs. Blackett from St John reporting international procurement trips to Canada for more affordable breakfast items and meats. “Overseas shopping reduces costs significantly,” she noted, adding that manageable Customs charges helped mitigate living expenses.

    The tangible impact of inflation emerges through stark comparisons. One elderly shopper documented a $10 increase for identical fruit purchases within a single week, prompting early July preparations to avoid December price surges.

    Despite these challenges, the cultural commitment to Christmas tradition remains unwavering. Michael Beckles, while loading groceries, articulated this resilience: “Certain necessities reflect our inherent traditions. We must procure ingredients for jug jug and traditional dishes. Christmas remains what you make it.” His balanced approach – “a little bit of everything without excess” – captures the prevailing sentiment of determined celebration amid economic adaptation.

    For wheelchair user Yvette Sealy, the season’s essence has shifted toward spiritual significance rather than material display, focusing on church attendance and simple meals while utilizing previous years’ frozen ham.

    This collective response illustrates both the pressures of economic reality and the enduring strength of cultural traditions, as Barbadians creatively preserve Christmas spirit through community resilience and adaptive celebration.

  • New Equipment Arrives to Resume Dredging at Parham and St. John’s Harbours

    New Equipment Arrives to Resume Dredging at Parham and St. John’s Harbours

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has acquired specialized heavy-duty dredging equipment to overcome significant geological obstacles that had paralyzed critical harbor development projects. Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced this strategic intervention during his appearance on the ‘Browne and Browne’ show on Pointe FM, revealing that previous dredging attempts at Parham Harbour had been completely halted by impenetrable rock formations and bedrock.

    According to PM Browne, the substantial rock layers proved insurmountable for originally deployed machinery, ultimately compelling even a contracted Dutch dredging firm to withdraw from the project after their equipment failed to perform under the challenging conditions. This operational deadlock left the government with ‘no other choice’ but to procure a more robust mechanical solution capable of fragmenting and extracting the dense geological material.

    The newly acquired dredger, which arrived disassembled, is presently being reconstructed on-site by technical crews. Prime Minister Browne projected that the machine will become operational within approximately one week. In a complementary move, the administration has arranged to lease an additional barge from Guadeloupe within the forthcoming fortnight to bolster the dredging operations.

    Upon activation, work will recommence at Parham Harbour—locally referred to as Crabbs—with subsequent redeployment planned for St. John’s Harbour. PM Browne emphasized that the successful execution of these dredging activities is indispensable for enhancing maritime accessibility and facilitating the progression of associated port infrastructure developments, which are pivotal to the nation’s economic and logistical advancement.

  • PM Says Nation Has Lost a “True Patriot”, Sir Gerald Watt To Receive Official Funeral

    PM Says Nation Has Lost a “True Patriot”, Sir Gerald Watt To Receive Official Funeral

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly eulogized the late Sir Gerald Watt, former Speaker of the House, characterizing him as an intellectually robust and courageous patriot whose enduring legacy will profoundly shape Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic traditions. During a recent appearance on Pointe FM, Browne expressed profound shock at Sir Gerald’s unexpected passing, which occurred merely days before his 87th birthday, despite reports of his vigorous health.

    The Prime Minister revealed that while their personal acquaintance deepened after 2014, his admiration for Sir Gerald originated from a remarkably lucid and bold article the former Speaker penned in 2000. This initial respect was further fortified through conversations with the late Prime Minister Sir Lester Bird, who consistently praised Sir Gerald as possessing one of the nation’s most brilliant legal intellects.

    Browne particularly emphasized Sir Gerald’s unwavering resolve and intellectual independence during his challenging tenure as head of the Electoral Commission. These sterling qualities ultimately motivated Browne to appoint him as Speaker following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s 2014 electoral triumph. Over his subsequent eleven-year speakership, Sir Gerald demonstrated extraordinary physical vitality, intellectual acuity, and unshakeable principles, frequently adopting controversial stances when convinced of their righteousness.

    Notably, the Prime Minister highlighted Sir Gerald’s distinctive parliamentary management style, marked by both firmness and impartiality. He consistently maintained parliamentary decorum without yielding to political pressures, often confronting ministers and opposition members alike with equal determination. This steadfast approach, while sometimes unsettling for political opponents, fundamentally reflected his profound institutional respect for Parliament itself.

    Although Sir Gerald had previously served under different political banners, Browne observed his remarkable transformation into one of the Labour Party’s most articulate defenders in recent years. This political evolution exemplified the vital importance of integrating talented individuals across ideological spectrums to strengthen national governance structures.

    In extending heartfelt condolences to Sir Gerald’s family, including his son and relatives, Browne proclaimed him “a true patriot” and “a great son of the soil” whose nation-building contributions remain invaluable. The government will accord Sir Gerald an official state funeral, with parliamentary tributes scheduled when the House reconvenes.

    Concurrently, Browne expressed sympathies for the passing of veteran educator Genevieve “Teacher Gen” Smith, grandmother of Minister Anthony Smith Jr., reaffirming his endorsement for renaming Potters Primary School in her honor. While acknowledging the profound loss of both figures, the Prime Minister emphasized that their extensive lives of national service should be celebrated gratefully, with their legacies continuing to inspire forthcoming generations.