Carib Scope

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  • Guyana plans to buy long-acting HIV prevention anti-retroviral

    Guyana plans to buy long-acting HIV prevention anti-retroviral

    The Guyanese government has announced plans to acquire lenacapavir, an innovative anti-retroviral medication scientifically proven to provide up to six months of protection against HIV transmission. Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony confirmed the nation’s intention to purchase this revolutionary prophylactic treatment, which could significantly alter the country’s approach to HIV prevention.

    Currently marketed under the brand name Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization, the medication carries a substantial price tag of approximately $25,000 in markets like the United States. Minister Anthony revealed that Guyana anticipates negotiating more affordable acquisition terms within the next one to two years, particularly as the drug approaches patent expiration.

    “We’re optimistic that post-patent expiration will enable us to access this medication at a reduced cost,” Dr. Anthony stated. “Many experts believe this treatment could revolutionize HIV care, and we’re collaborating with international partners to facilitate its availability.”

    The Health Minister explicitly committed to providing lenacapavir free of charge to citizens if the government successfully secures it at lower off-patent prices. This initiative follows a significant precedent set in South Africa, where the Clinton Health Access Initiative partnered with the Gates Foundation and research institutions to negotiate access at approximately $40 per dose—a dramatic reduction representing just 0.1% of the original cost.

    According to BBC reports, this affordable alternative is scheduled for distribution across 120 low- and middle-income nations starting in 2027. The development is particularly crucial for Guyana, where official statistics recorded 449 new HIV cases in the previous year.

    Minister Anthony further reported that 95% of Guyanese citizens are now aware of their HIV status, though not all positive individuals currently receive treatment. The government is simultaneously working to ensure viral suppression among those undergoing treatment, ultimately aiming to eliminate transmission risks. “Achieving viral suppression to prevent transmission represents our ultimate objective, and we’re dedicating substantial efforts toward maintaining progress in this critical area,” he concluded.

  • Your Birth Certificate Now a Click Away

    Your Birth Certificate Now a Click Away

    Belize has entered a new digital era with the official launch of its Civil Registry and Vital Statistics (CRVS) System, eliminating the traditional burdens of obtaining official documents. The groundbreaking platform, introduced on December 11, 2025, enables citizens to securely request birth, marriage, and death certificates through any internet-connected device.

    The Ministry of E-Governance, in partnership with the Attorney General’s Ministry and the Inter-American Development Bank, developed this transformative system to modernize public service delivery. The digital solution represents a significant departure from previous paper-driven, in-person procedures that required lengthy commutes and extended waiting periods at government offices.

    Attorney General Anthony Sylvester characterized the initiative as “a pivotal movement in the modernization of service delivery in Belize.” He emphasized that the CRVS system introduces a fully digital, secure framework that fundamentally transforms how vital records are requested, processed, and delivered to citizens nationwide.

    The platform integrates with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to enhance data accuracy while providing verification capabilities for electronic certificates. This development follows the government’s May 2025 launch of the Online Criminal Records Registry, demonstrating Belize’s consistent commitment to digital transformation of public services.

    Prime Minister John Briceño acknowledged the dedicated team that meticulously digitized historical records, describing their effort as painstaking work involving “tediously going through those pages after pages” to create the comprehensive digital system.

  • Men Working More and Women Working Less, Unemployment Rate at 1.9%

    Men Working More and Women Working Less, Unemployment Rate at 1.9%

    Belize has achieved a remarkably low unemployment rate of 1.9% as of September 2025, according to the latest Labour Force Survey released by the Statistical Institute of Belize. This represents a slight improvement from the 2.1% recorded during the same period in 2024, indicating continued economic stability in the Central American nation.

    The comprehensive survey reveals a labor force of 181,863 individuals, with men constituting nearly 60% of the workforce. While overall labor participation has increased marginally, a significant gender disparity persists. Approximately 70% of working-age men are actively engaged in the labor market compared to just 47% of women. The primary factor behind this imbalance appears to be domestic responsibilities, with many women citing family care and household duties as barriers to employment.

    Geographic variations in labor participation were also documented, with Belize District demonstrating the highest workforce engagement and Toledo registering the lowest participation rates.

    Employment data shows 178,442 people currently employed, with wholesale and retail trade representing the largest employment sector, closely followed by the tourism industry. Nearly half of all workers are concentrated in service and sales positions or elementary occupations involving basic manual labor.

    The economic analysis further reveals an increase in average monthly earnings to $1,551, representing a $21 year-over-year improvement. Professionals and managerial staff commanded the highest compensation, averaging over $2,200 monthly. Workers also reported increased weekly hours, averaging 42.7 hours compared to 39.8 hours in 2024.

    Outside the formal labor market, 130,167 individuals were neither employed nor seeking employment. Women comprised nearly two-thirds of this demographic, with family responsibilities being the predominant reason for non-participation. Over half had never previously held employment, with most relying on family members for financial support.

  • Government Collects More as GDP Grew 6.1%

    Government Collects More as GDP Grew 6.1%

    Belize’s economy demonstrated robust expansion during the third quarter of 2025, with official statistics revealing a significant 6.1 percent increase in Gross Domestic Product. According to data released by the Statistical Institute of Belize, the nation generated approximately $1.22 billion in economic output between July and September, representing a $70 million improvement compared to the same period in 2024.

    The economic upswing has translated into substantial gains for government revenues, with tax collections climbing to $175.2 million—an 8.4 percent surge from the previous year’s $161.7 million. This revenue growth primarily stems from increased consumption taxes, indicating heightened economic activity across consumer and business sectors.

    Multiple industries contributed to this economic momentum. The agricultural and fisheries sector posted particularly strong results, with cattle production expanding by nearly one-third and seafood exports (including lobster) growing by 25 percent. Although shrimp, banana, and citrus production experienced declines, the overall sector maintained positive growth.

    Construction activity accelerated dramatically with a 16 percent expansion, fueled by numerous infrastructure and development projects. The utilities sector also showed vigor, with electricity generation increasing by 14 percent and water consumption rising modestly.

    Commercial enterprises reported strengthened performance, with wholesale and retail trade growing by 7 percent. Financial services, including banking and insurance, alongside government services, also contributed to the economic expansion.

    Tourism emerged as another critical growth driver, with 105,600 overnight visitors and 116,600 cruise passengers arriving during the quarter—both figures representing increases over the previous year’s statistics.

    While GDP growth typically correlates with job creation and income enhancement, economists note that this measurement alone doesn’t capture wealth distribution patterns or qualitative improvements in living standards across the population.

  • Beekeeping on island receives boost with gov’t handing over equipment to over 90 farmers

    Beekeeping on island receives boost with gov’t handing over equipment to over 90 farmers

    The Dominican government has launched a substantial agricultural support program, distributing $944,964 worth of irrigation and beekeeping equipment to over ninety local farmers. The formal handover ceremony occurred at the Dominica Agricultural Producers and Exporters Limited (DAPEX) Warehouse Facility on Wednesday, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s agricultural development strategy.

    Agriculture Minister Roland Royer characterized the initiative as a pivotal investment in Dominica’s food security infrastructure, rural economic stability, and climate adaptation capabilities. “This is a major investment not only in equipment but in the future of the agriculture sector,” Minister Royer declared during the distribution event.

    The irrigation component directly addresses critical climate challenges affecting the island nation. Minister Royer identified climate change as the primary driver behind increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and intensified drought conditions that have threatened agricultural productivity. “For our farmers, access to water is no longer optional—it is essential,” he emphasized, noting that the new irrigation systems will guarantee year-round water availability, enable production expansion, and improve overall crop quality and yield.

    Concurrently, the beekeeping equipment distribution represents a strategic move toward agricultural diversification and environmental enhancement. Royer highlighted apiculture’s significant potential for rural income generation, emphasizing its multifaceted benefits: “Strengthening apiculture contributes directly to diversification of farmers’ livelihoods, increased honey production for local and export markets, enhanced crop pollination which boosts fruit production, and promotes a more balanced and biodiverse environment.”

    The government’s sustained investment in beekeeping infrastructure demonstrates its commitment to developing this niche sector into a thriving component of Dominica’s agricultural industry. This comprehensive support package reflects a dual approach to agricultural development—combining immediate climate adaptation measures with long-term economic diversification strategies to strengthen the nation’s agricultural resilience.

  • Eerste STEM-conventie laat kinderen spelend ontdekken hoe wetenschap werkt

    Eerste STEM-conventie laat kinderen spelend ontdekken hoe wetenschap werkt

    Suriname’s educational landscape witnessed a transformative event as the inaugural STEM Convention for children aged 3-14 erupted with excitement at the Assuria Highrise this Monday. Hundreds of young participants immersed themselves in interactive experiments, engineering challenges, and technological demonstrations, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s educational development.

    Organized through a collaborative effort between Surinaams Knutselhoekje (HSKH) and Esport Suriname, the convention transformed the venue into a dynamic learning laboratory. Children engaged with diverse stations featuring homemade lava lamps using cooking oil and effervescent tablets, constructed electric propellers from scratch, and operated full-feature racing simulators with steering wheels and pedal systems. This hands-on approach provided tangible introductions to fundamental principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

    Leann Djohari of HSKH explained the pedagogical philosophy behind the event: “STEM education fundamentally revolves around experiential learning. Children achieve deeper conceptual understanding when they physically execute tasks themselves. They observe immediate consequences of their actions—performing A results in B—which reinforces knowledge retention and develops critical cause-effect reasoning skills.”

    The convention’s practical methodology manifested through multiple engaging zones. Under the guidance of young instructors and digital tutorials, participants assembled functional robots, programmed basic devices, and explored electrical engineering concepts. A chemistry laboratory attracted considerable attention with interactive experiments, while a dedicated virtual reality zone allowed children to experience immersive digital environments.

    Founded by Cherelys Dwarkasing, HSKH has spent five years democratizing STEM education throughout Suriname. The organization visits a different district each quarter to ensure nationwide accessibility. This year’s convention coincidentally aligned with HSKH’s anniversary, adding celebratory significance to the event.

    Djohari declared the initiative an overwhelming success: “We anticipated approximately 300 children, but attendance substantially exceeded our projections.” She emphasized that STEM education extends beyond technical skills: “It cultivates creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication—abilities increasingly essential in our rapidly evolving technological landscape. Early exposure better prepares children for future challenges, embodying the principle that early learning establishes lasting foundations.”

    Buoyed by the enthusiastic response, organizers indicate this inaugural event will likely catalyze expanded STEM initiatives throughout Suriname. HSKH aims to foster scientific and technical proficiency at a pace matching the boundless curiosity of children who exclaimed “Waaw!” throughout Monday’s groundbreaking convention.

  • Ayre Group Refutes Report Attempting to Tie Calvin Ayre to Wirecard Allegations

    Ayre Group Refutes Report Attempting to Tie Calvin Ayre to Wirecard Allegations

    The Ayre Group has issued a formal statement addressing circulating allegations attempting to link its Chairman, Calvin Ayre, to the ongoing Wirecard scandal. The group categorically denies any connection between Mr. Ayre and the collapsed German payment processor.

    According to the statement, Mr. Ayre has never had any association with Wirecard AG, its senior executives, or employees. The business magnate has reportedly never met with any representatives of the company and has had no business dealings with the organization whatsoever.

    The denial extends to financial transactions, with the statement clarifying that neither Mr. Ayre personally nor any of his business entities have ever utilized Wirecard’s payment processing services or maintained accounts with the company. The Ayre Group emphasizes that nothing in the official Wirecard criminal complaint suggests any wrongdoing or improper conduct by Mr. Ayre or his affiliated companies in relation to the embezzlement allegations surrounding Wirecard’s collapse.

    Citing respect for the ongoing legal proceedings in Germany, where Wirecard executives face charges of fraud, embezzlement, and market manipulation following one of Europe’s largest postwar financial scandals, Mr. Ayre has declined to make additional statements at this time. The brief declaration serves as both a denial of allegations and a commitment to allow the judicial process to proceed without interference.

  • SGU and TAMCC sign agreement to expand higher education opportunities in Grenada

    SGU and TAMCC sign agreement to expand higher education opportunities in Grenada

    In a landmark development for Caribbean higher education, St. George’s University (SGU) and T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) have formalized a comprehensive partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on December 10. The agreement establishes an integrated educational framework designed to create seamless academic progression opportunities for Grenadian students.

    The strategic collaboration will enable TAMCC graduates to transition directly into accelerated bachelor’s degree programs at SGU’s School of Arts and Sciences. Beyond articulation pathways, the partnership encompasses joint curriculum development, collaborative research initiatives, and community engagement programs across multiple disciplines including tourism and hospitality, information technology, natural sciences, and creative arts.

    Dr. Marios Loukas, SGU President and Dean of the School of Medicine, emphasized the transformative potential of the alliance: “This partnership represents our commitment to educational accessibility and excellence. By creating structured pathways between institutions, we’re investing in both human capital development and regional advancement.”

    The ceremonial signing at SGU’s Chancellor Charles Modica Campus brought together administrative leadership from both institutions. Dr. Wendy Grenade, Chair of the TAMCC Council, noted the agreement’s significance: “This collaboration allows us to leverage world-class resources while maintaining our commitment to accessible education. We’re building an integrated system that addresses both local needs and regional development goals.”

    Implementation will be managed through a joint working group with representatives from both institutions. The initial agreement remains effective for four years with built-in provisions for renewal, signaling a long-term commitment to educational cooperation in the Eastern Caribbean.

  • PM Recommends Dialogue as National Parks’ 1 a.m. Cut-Off Irks Public

    PM Recommends Dialogue as National Parks’ 1 a.m. Cut-Off Irks Public

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has intervened in a growing public dispute over early entertainment curfews imposed by the National Parks Authority, pledging immediate stakeholder discussions to address mounting frustrations. The political leadership’s engagement follows a viral incident at Abracadabra where a DJ directed profane criticism at authorities after being compelled to terminate music at 1 a.m., sparking concerns about potential public unrest.

    The controversy gained momentum through a citizen’s letter characterizing the DJ’s behavior as profoundly disappointing and potentially incendiary, drawing parallels to inflammatory rhetoric associated with historical civil disturbances. Despite widespread public condemnation, no legal action has been initiated against the individual, with the correspondent emphasizing that the provocative footage remains publicly accessible and warrants judicial attention.

    This incident has reignited examination of noise regulation enforcement mechanisms across Antigua and Barbuda. The Noise Abatement Act (1997) designates exclusive enforcement authority to police services, yet consistent application has remained challenging despite recurrent complaints from hospitality establishments and residents affected by nocturnal disturbances. The correspondent expressed alarm over alleged political directives instructing law enforcement and park authorities to relax statutory enforcement, raising fundamental questions about governance consistency.

    With tourism operators, residents, and event organizers preparing for heightened holiday activity, the Prime Minister’s convening of multi-stakeholder dialogue suggests impending revisions to entertainment guidelines or enforcement protocols to balance cultural entertainment with community tranquility.

  • Head of the Directorate of Gender Affairs Addresses International Meeting on Digital Gender Based Violence

    Head of the Directorate of Gender Affairs Addresses International Meeting on Digital Gender Based Violence

    Fortaleza, Brazil – A pivotal regional conference has culminated in the adoption of a comprehensive legal framework designed to confront the escalating crisis of digital gender-based violence across Latin America and the Caribbean. The Tenth Conference of States Parties to the Follow-up Mechanism of the Belém do Para Convention, a significant gathering of regional leaders, served as the platform for this critical development.

    The conference, focused exclusively on legislation and policies to counter online abuse targeting women, convened a high-level assembly of government ministers, directors of national gender affairs agencies, international development representatives, and civil society advocates. A central feature of the event was a high-level panel discussion titled ‘From commitment to implementation: Pathways to Apply the model law on digital violence against women’.

    Mr. Jamie Saunders, Executive Director of the Directorate of Gender Affairs, contributed to the panel, providing expert analysis on the manifestations and impacts of digital violence in the region. He was joined by distinguished figures including Ingrid Gomez Saracibar, Deputy Secretary for the Right of a Life Free from Violence from Mexico’s Women’s Secretariat; Ana Carolina Querino, Acting Representative of UN Women in Brazil; and a representative from the regional advocacy group Hiperderecho.

    The cornerstone achievement of the meeting was the formal adoption of an Inter-American model law. This pioneering legal instrument provides a robust blueprint for member states to prevent, punish, and ultimately eradicate technology-facilitated gender-based violence. The framework empowers nations to adapt and enact tailored legislation within their own jurisdictions, marking a unified regional step toward creating safer digital environments for women and girls.