Carib Scope

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  • REBUILD FACES EXECUTION TEST

    REBUILD FACES EXECUTION TEST

    Jamaica’s ambitious national rebuilding program following the devastating Hurricane Melissa faces significant implementation risks due to structural weaknesses in the state’s project execution capacity, according to a stark assessment from the Independent Fiscal Commission (IFC). The fiscal watchdog’s report, presented to Parliament on Tuesday, indicates that despite Jamaica’s strong fiscal buffers and available financing, the government’s historical pattern of capital underspending threatens to undermine reconstruction efforts.

    The October hurricane caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damages, equivalent to approximately 41% of Jamaica’s GDP, prompting the temporary suspension of fiscal rules and triggering a major reconstruction initiative. However, the IFC’s January assessment reveals concerning execution trends, with central government capital spending between April and September reaching just $19.2 billion—nearly 46% below the original budget of $35.5 billion.

    The commission emphasized that the government’s stronger-than-expected budget performance in the first half of the 2025/26 fiscal year reflected widespread under-execution of capital projects rather than improved implementation capacity. This pattern of underspending, while supporting near-term fiscal outcomes, masks fundamental weaknesses in the state’s ability to deliver large-scale public investment programs.

    Jamaica entered the current fiscal year with robust macroeconomic indicators, including declining public debt, low unemployment, and improved credit ratings. By September 2025, the debt-to-GDP ratio had fallen to 60.3%, positioning the country to meet its legislated 60% debt target ahead of schedule. However, Hurricane Melissa has dramatically altered this trajectory, with public debt now projected to rise to 68.2% of GDP by fiscal year-end.

    The IFC acknowledged that Jamaica’s fiscal buffers and disaster-risk financing arrangements—including access to approximately US$663 million in contingent resources—enabled an immediate response to the catastrophe. International development partners have additionally mobilized up to $6 billion in potential financing to support recovery and reconstruction efforts.

    Despite these financial resources, the commission stressed that financing availability is not the primary constraint. Instead, it identified long-standing deficiencies in public investment management, including procurement delays, inadequate project preparation, and limited project-management capacity across government ministries and public bodies. The report specifically cautioned against what it termed “over-ambition in materially executing additional capital projects amid local capacity constraints.”

    As Jamaica transitions into the reconstruction phase, the IFC recommended aligning capital budgets more closely with actual delivery capacity while strengthening execution frameworks to ensure rebuilding efforts translate into sustainable economic growth rather than temporary fiscal improvements.

  • Foton picks up new pickup

    Foton picks up new pickup

    Foton Jamaica has officially entered the full-size pickup segment with the grand launch of its flagship model, the Tunland V9, at its Oxford Road showroom on January 24. The introduction marks a strategic expansion for the brand into a premium and previously underserved sector of the Jamaican automotive market.

    Under the theme of ‘dominance,’ the V9 makes a significant visual statement with dimensions that align more closely with North American trucks than traditional compact pickups. Jhanelle Wagstaffe, Senior Sales Manager at Foton, expressed strong enthusiasm for the model’s arrival, stating it “speaks dominance, presence, versatility” and is an “excellent addition” to the existing lineup.

    Technologically, the Tunland V9 is engineered as a powerhouse. It features a sophisticated drivetrain combining a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This configuration is designed to deliver robust performance and enhanced fuel efficiency through electric torque assistance and energy recovery. Power is managed by a standard eight-speed automatic transmission and a capable four-wheel-drive system complete with a locking rear differential and multiple off-road modes.

    A key differentiator from competitors is its rear suspension. Departing from the conventional leaf-spring design typical for work-focused trucks, the V9 employs a multi-link coil setup, which Foton claims provides a notably smoother ride and superior handling without sacrificing utility.

    The vehicle is built for dual purposes: serious work and premium comfort. It boasts a spray-coated bed capable of handling a full pallet and payloads up to one tonne, alongside a formidable 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Practical work features include integrated side steps and a damped tailgate with an auxiliary step.

    Inside, the V9 transitions into a luxury cabin. It is outfitted with powered leather seats, ambient lighting, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s cluster, and a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay. This screen also serves as the display for a standard 360-degree camera with a built-in dash-cam. Safety is addressed with six airbags and a suite of collision warning systems, while driving aids like Adaptive Cruise Control and Hill Descent Assist enhance both on and off-road experiences.

    The Tunland V9 now sits atop the Foton range in Jamaica, joining the compact G7 pickup, Miler truck, and C-series buses. With the smaller G7 already receiving a favourable market response, company executives are optimistic that the V9 will achieve similar success, appealing to both commercial buyers seeking a heavy-duty workhorse and individuals desiring a refined, luxurious daily driver.

  • Gov’t focused on image, not reform, says Dawes

    Gov’t focused on image, not reform, says Dawes

    In a scathing critique of the government’s handling of systemic failures at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), Opposition Health Spokesman Dr. Alfred Dawes has accused health authorities of prioritizing public relations over substantive reform. The condemnation came during a carefully timed press conference on Thursday, deliberately scheduled after the health minister’s media tour had concluded.

    Dr. Dawes challenged the necessity of the newly established review panel tasked with examining the auditor general’s findings, characterizing it as redundant bureaucratic layering designed to delay accountability. He revealed that both the auditor general’s report, tabled in Parliament on January 13, and an internal investigative report from November had already documented identical concerns regarding governance failures, procurement breaches, and internal control deficiencies.

    The audit uncovered years of systemic weaknesses including UHWI’s failure to submit approved procurement plans, awarding contracts without proper documentation, and misusing its tax-exempt status to import goods for private companies—resulting in millions in lost state revenue. The report further highlighted inadequate board oversight and non-compliance with public procurement regulations.

    ‘After every scandal, the health minister embarks on a cross-country media tour to drown out criticism,’ Dawes stated. ‘The panel serves as a distraction mechanism allowing public interest to wane over four months before moving to the next scandal.’

    The opposition spokesman questioned why decisive action wasn’t taken when concerns were first identified last year, noting that investigative recommendations already included establishing board-approved procurement plans, digital procurement systems, staff training, and strengthened audit committees. Dawes linked current problems to prolonged governance instability, including the disbanding of a previous reform-oriented board.

    He warned that continued delays threaten public confidence, patient care, and staff morale at Jamaica’s premier teaching hospital, describing UHWI as being in a ‘death spiral due to poor governance.’

  • ‘Call it out!’

    ‘Call it out!’

    Jamaica’s Education Minister, Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, delivered a powerful and emotionally charged address on Thursday, demanding a national reckoning on the island’s pervasive child sexual abuse crisis. Speaking at the Child Protection and Family Services Agency’s 2025 Educational Achievement Awards Ceremony in St. Andrew, the minister shattered societal silence by revealing alarming statistics and personal testimonies.

    Minister Morris Dixon disclosed that conversations with first-form students uncovered a devastating reality: the majority of girls in their classes had already experienced rape. Citing the 2023 Violence Against Children and Youth survey, she highlighted that nearly one in four females (23.7%) and over one in ten males (11.7%) endure sexual violence during childhood. ‘We’re not doing enough to protect our children,’ she stated bluntly. ‘We all know it’s happening, but we are all being polite about it. Politeness isn’t going to take us forward.’

    The minister outlined a comprehensive policy agenda addressing multiple child welfare fronts. She emphasized urgent reforms to Jamaica’s adoption framework, describing current processes as unnecessarily complex and slow. As a foster parent herself, Morris Dixon championed family-based care solutions, asserting that ‘the best place for a child is in a home with family’ while acknowledging the challenges of fostering.

    Another critical focus emerged on special needs children, with the minister noting severe program shortages both during schooling and after they reach adulthood. She called for developing safeguarding frameworks and business participation mechanisms to create sustainable support systems.

    The ceremony simultaneously celebrated 64 awardees among 132 state-care students who excelled in secondary examinations. The CPFSA invests over $80 million annually in educational support from early childhood through tertiary levels. Minister Morris Dixon inspired recipients to overcome societal prejudice: ‘There will be people who may want to diminish you, but you must never let them.’

  • Sigma gets smarter

    Sigma gets smarter

    The 28th annual Sagicor Sigma Run is poised for a groundbreaking iteration in February 2026, merging technological innovation with a profound humanitarian mission. Organizers have announced a dual focus: implementing state-of-the-art race management systems and channeling all proceeds toward rebuilding schools in western Jamaica devastated by Hurricane Melissa in late October.

    Under the direction of Race Director Alfred Francis of Running Events Jamaica, the event will debut a sophisticated MyLaps tracking system. This technology, renowned for its use at premier global competitions like the Winter Olympics and Chicago Marathon, will introduce live participant tracking and a novel ‘watch yourself finish’ video feature. Runners and spectators can monitor progress in real-time and access personalized finish-line footage post-race by entering their bib numbers.

    Building on last year’s successful turnout of approximately 30,000 participants, organizers are targeting a 10% increase, aiming for 32,250 entrants across wheelchair, running, and walking categories. The overwhelming demand has already necessitated a reorder of race bibs. The scenic course will remain unchanged, winding through key Kingston arteries including Knutsford Boulevard, Hope Road, and Half-Way-Tree Road.

    The technological enhancements and participant experience are matched by a critical fundraising goal. This year’s event seeks to raise at least $150 million Jamaican dollars, specifically earmarked for restoring normalcy to 3,000 students across five identified schools: Green Pond High, Little London High, Salt Marsh Primary, Mayfield Primary, and Hopewell High. Francis acknowledged the scale of need far exceeds available resources but expressed confidence in the generosity of the Jamaican people, citing last year’s achievement of raising $128 million against a $115 million target.

    Emphasizing safety and community, the run will operate with support from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Combined Cadet Force, the Ministry of Health, and a vast network of volunteers. Francis positions the event not merely as a race but as a vital channel for national contribution, stating, ‘You’ll feel fulfilled that you are part of a wonderful experience making a significant contribution towards Jamaica’s growth and sustainability.’

  • Barbuda Airport to Extend Operating Hours with New Apron Lighting

    Barbuda Airport to Extend Operating Hours with New Apron Lighting

    The Barbuda International Airport is poised to significantly expand its operational capabilities through the installation of advanced apron lighting infrastructure. This strategic enhancement will permit scheduled flights to continue until 9:30 PM, effectively eliminating the current restriction that forces the airport to cease all operations at sunset.

    According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, this decision resulted from high-level Cabinet discussions involving airport authorities and representatives from the PLH development project. The existing illumination system, described as ‘sunset lights,’ has historically limited aviation activities to daylight hours, creating logistical challenges for the island.

    The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority is collaborating directly on this infrastructure project, which represents a critical component of broader developmental initiatives linked to PLH’s investments on the island. The extended operational window is anticipated to yield substantial benefits across multiple sectors including inter-island transportation, tourism expansion, and emergency medical response capabilities.

    Officials emphasize that enhanced nighttime accessibility will be particularly valuable during peak travel seasons and for after-hours emergency situations. While specific completion timelines remain under development, authorities confirm that installation works will commence imminently, marking a new chapter in Barbuda’s connectivity and economic development.

  • Agro-Industrial Park at Diamonds to Launch Immediately, Cabinet Says

    Agro-Industrial Park at Diamonds to Launch Immediately, Cabinet Says

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued an immediate directive to commence construction on the Diamonds Estate Agro-Industrial Park, declaring the initiative a critical component of the nation’s strategy to enhance food security and economic stability. The urgent mandate was delivered by Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, during a recent Cabinet briefing.

    Emphasizing the administration’s serious commitment, Merchant stated that the Gaston Browne government views food security as an utmost national priority. This sense of urgency has been magnified by recent global disruptions to shipping lanes and international supply chains, exposing vulnerabilities in the nation’s food import dependency.

    The planned Agro-Industrial Park is designed to tackle deep-rooted structural deficiencies within the domestic agricultural sector. Key challenges targeted include significant post-harvest losses, a lack of value-added processing capabilities, and overall supply chain inefficiencies. The facility will concentrate on cultivating priority crops such as cassava, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various legumes.

    Implementation will emphasize the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, including modern irrigation systems for efficient water use, mechanization, and sophisticated post-harvest management techniques. A core objective is to boost local processing and value-addition, enabling domestically grown produce to displace a substantial portion of food imports while simultaneously creating improved market pathways for local farmers.

    This project is not standalone but rather a pivotal element of a broader governmental strategy. This comprehensive plan includes initiatives to ramp up local production volumes, supply essential equipment to farmers, and reduce duties and taxes on crucial agricultural inputs. Further operational details regarding implementation and access for farmers and agri-businesses are anticipated to be released as project work gets underway.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Government Orders Bi-Weekly Reports on Price Reductions

    Antigua and Barbuda Government Orders Bi-Weekly Reports on Price Reductions

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has implemented stringent monitoring measures to ensure recent fiscal relief measures are effectively reaching consumers. The Cabinet has mandated the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division to submit comprehensive reports every two weeks detailing retailer compliance with tax and duty reductions.

    This decisive action follows concerning reports of inconsistent adherence among retailers to cost-of-living relief initiatives. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, confirmed that inspection teams have been actively monitoring supermarkets and retail establishments nationwide, with findings indicating varied levels of cooperation.

    “While major supermarket chains have shown partial compliance, numerous suppliers and retailers have exhibited reluctance in providing essential invoicing and pricing documentation,” Merchant stated during the weekly Cabinet briefing. He emphasized that such documentation is legally required to verify whether tax and duty reductions are being properly reflected in consumer pricing.

    The government has clarified that the fundamental objective of these policy measures is to guarantee that consumers directly benefit from initiatives designed to alleviate cost-of-living pressures. “The benefits must pass on to the consumers,” Merchant asserted, noting that reducing taxes and duties specifically targets relief from imported inflation.

    This enhanced reporting mechanism constitutes part of broader governmental efforts to strengthen oversight capabilities, improve regulatory enforcement, and ensure market transparency as amendments to existing price control legislation are being prepared. The bi-weekly reporting schedule represents an unprecedented level of scrutiny over retail pricing practices in the nation’s recent economic history.

  • Five years on, no answers in Stephanie Thomas’ murder

    Five years on, no answers in Stephanie Thomas’ murder

    Five years after the grim discovery of a decomposed female body at Pigeon Point in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, the grieving family of 22-year-old Stephanie Thomas continues their agonizing wait for justice. The case, initially investigated in January 2021, remains officially active with law enforcement yet to make any arrests in connection with the young woman’s death.

    The emotional toll on Thomas’s family has been devastating. Her father, Robertson Henry, described the past five years as “an emotional roller coaster” that has tested his sanity. “I try to remain sane by constantly occupying myself with work, but the memory and the pain never goes away,” Henry revealed in an interview with St. Lucia Times. “The images of her decomposed body serve as a constant reminder of the brutality and nastiness of the murderer.”

    Despite public appeals from police officials during the initial investigation phase, the case has encountered significant forensic challenges. According to police sources, the advanced state of decomposition of Thomas’s body has prevented pathologists from determining the exact cause of death, creating a substantial obstacle in the investigation.

    Superintendent George Nicholas, who heads Crime Management in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, had previously assured the public that investigators were pursuing all possible leads. While one individual has been questioned multiple times in connection with the death, the absence of conclusive evidence has prevented any arrests.

    The tragedy occurred during a particularly violent year in Saint Lucia, with Thomas’s death being one of 75 homicides recorded in 2021. Her father maintains that even if the killer is eventually brought to justice, it cannot fully compensate for the loss of his daughter, who was “taken away from us way too soon.”

  • Jamaican national charged with capital murder in Biscombe killing

    Jamaican national charged with capital murder in Biscombe killing

    Saint Lucian authorities have formally brought capital murder charges against Javier Cleveland Bailey, a Jamaican national, for the January 19th fatal shooting of 27-year-old security guard Cresean Biscombe. The incident occurred during an apparent robbery attempt at a Castries supermarket where Biscombe was employed.

    The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force confirmed Bailey’s arrest came following an intensive investigation into the La Clery homicide. Court documents show prosecutors presented their case before the First District Court on January 28th, where the presiding judge ordered Bailey remanded into custody pending trial proceedings.

    Law enforcement officials have revealed their investigation remains active, with at least one additional suspect currently detained for questioning. Police indicate multiple individuals may have participated in the attempted robbery that resulted in Biscombe’s death. Authorities are continuing investigative operations to identify and locate other potential accomplices.

    The case has drawn attention to workplace safety concerns for security personnel and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat violent crime in commercial establishments. The judicial process will proceed under Saint Lucia’s legal framework for capital offenses, which carries significant penalties upon conviction.