Carib Scope

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  • Boo’s Christmas spectacle delivers encore of joy

    Boo’s Christmas spectacle delivers encore of joy

    The Sandals Grande ballroom transformed into a festive spectacular on November 29th as Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson’s acclaimed annual concert ‘Show the World – It’s Christmas’ delivered an unforgettable evening of musical excellence. The event brought together Saint Lucian cultural icons including former Governor-General Dame Pearlette Louisy, former Caribbean Court of Justice President Sir Dennis Byron, and noted economist Dr. Stephen King, all sharing the dance floor in celebration.

    The evening commenced with an elegant cocktail reception featuring themed beverages and exquisite holiday décor, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable showcase of musical talent. The audience, adorned in formal tuxedos, suits, and ball gowns, greeted Hinkson with thunderous applause before he even played the first note—a testament to his revered status in Saint Lucian culture.

    Musical director Omari Maxwell led the ensemble through a program that balanced traditional favorites with contemporary arrangements. The Tru Tones opened with a refreshing rendition of ‘Winter Wonderland,’ establishing the evening’s magical atmosphere. Sibling duo Denisha and Denny Marshall delivered a emotionally resonant performance of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers’ ‘The Greatest Gift of All,’ while the James family offered a tender interpretation of ‘Silent Night.’

    Saxophonist Arturo Tappin energized the crowd with a vibrant ‘Feliz Navidad,’ maintaining the concert’s joyful momentum. True to tradition, Hinkson introduced emerging talent, this year spotlighting Vincent, a promising vocalist whose powerful delivery of Luther Vandross’ ‘Every Year, Every Christmas’ earned immediate demands for an encore and visible approval from Hinkson himself.

    The program further showcased exceptional young musicianship with trumpet virtuoso Eli and violinist Turro, Arturo Tappin’s son, demonstrating remarkable artistry. Christa Bailey transitioned seamlessly from reggae rhythms to a breathtaking performance of ‘What Child Is This.’

    TC Brown closed the main program with infectious energy, leading the audience through Caribbean Christmas classics including Ras Africa’s ‘Slice of the Pie’ and delivering a soaring rendition of the Imagination Brass classic that filled the ballroom with celebratory spirit.

    The evening extended into an after-party where admirers gathered to congratulate Hinkson and capture photographs with the musical legend, preserving memories of a night that perfectly captured the essence of Caribbean Christmas celebration through artistic excellence.

  • APUA Telecoms Crowned 2025 Ministry of Sports Business League Football Champions

    APUA Telecoms Crowned 2025 Ministry of Sports Business League Football Champions

    APUA Telecoms has clinched the championship title in the highly competitive 2025 Ministry of Sports Business League Football Tournament following an impressive season marked by exceptional team performance and individual brilliance. The telecommunications giant demonstrated consistent dominance throughout the campaign, ultimately securing the top honor in a tournament that featured strong showings from multiple government ministries and private organizations.

    The Ministry of Agriculture emerged as runners-up in the final standings, while Hermitage Bay secured a respectable third-place finish. The group stage witnessed four organizations claiming top positions in their respective divisions: St John’s Development Corporation triumphed in Group 1, the Ministry of Agriculture dominated Group 2, Postal Services led Group 3, and Hermitage Bay topped Group 4. In a separate exhibition match, HMP United emerged victorious.

    APUA Telecoms’ success extended beyond the team championship to a clean sweep of individual accolades. Rakeem Joseph received the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award, while Tariq Highland was honored as Best Defender. The organization further demonstrated its comprehensive excellence with Berchel Andrew claiming Manager of the Year and Colin Ralph recognized as Coach of the Year.

    Other notable award recipients included Roy Gregory of Hermitage Bay, who secured the Most Goals distinction, and Chad Williams of the Ministry of Agriculture, named Best Midfielder for his outstanding contributions.

    Tournament organizers expressed profound gratitude to all participating teams and extended special appreciation to Hermitage Bay, Blue Waters Hotel, and Keyonna Beach for their substantial support. Significant recognition was also given to sponsors KOSCAB Antigua, Paint Plus, Cool & Smooth/JOMA Caribbean, and TWatkins Enterprise for their crucial role in the tournament’s success.

    The Ministry of Sports officially characterized this year’s competition as one of the most engaging editions to date, particularly praising the exceptional standard of play and exemplary sportsmanship demonstrated throughout the tournament.

  • Combermere outlines improvement plans as exam results remain strong

    Combermere outlines improvement plans as exam results remain strong

    Combermere School is implementing a comprehensive modernization strategy that balances sustained academic achievement with substantial infrastructure improvements and character development programs. The institution’s roadmap was unveiled during its annual Speech Day and Prize-giving Ceremony, where exceptional students including Seleena Padmore (seven Grade Ones in CSEC) and Yusuf Abovat (top CAPE award) received recognition for their scholarly accomplishments.

    Academic metrics demonstrate consistent excellence, with the school achieving a 75% overall pass rate. Breakdown reveals 12% of all grades were Grade Ones, 31% Grade Twos, and another 31% Grade Threes. Twelve subjects notably recorded pass rates exceeding 80%, while CAPE results maintained a 94% overall pass rate matching the previous year’s performance.

    The modernization initiative addresses critical infrastructure needs through multiple channels. Chairman Captain Reverend Al Walcott announced significant upgrades including 20 new computers donated by alumni, complete reconstruction of mathematics and art rooms (to be renamed honoring former faculty Carl Bruhagan), and additional flooring for industrial arts classrooms. To address environmental challenges, the school is installing enhanced water storage tanks and pumps alongside new security surveillance systems.

    Accessibility improvements form a cornerstone of the modernization effort. Recent installations include central hall ramps for physically challenged individuals, with the board actively exploring solutions for upper-floor wheelchair access. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn, an Old Combermerian present at ceremonies, committed governmental support for accessibility upgrades pending project estimates.

    Character development receives equal emphasis through reinforced behavioral frameworks. The institution is strengthening parent-student-teacher partnerships focusing on positive communication, appropriate discipline, and emotional support. Reverend Walcott identified religion as the third foundational pillar for character formation, stressing early intervention in misconduct to cultivate responsible, respectful behavior aligned with the school’s humanitate ethos.

  • Family of man slain in a US boat strike in the Caribbean lodges complaint

    Family of man slain in a US boat strike in the Caribbean lodges complaint

    The relatives of Alejandro Carranza Medina, a Colombian national killed in a US military operation targeting suspected drug smuggling vessels, have formally lodged a human rights complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). Filed on Tuesday and reported by AFP on Wednesday, the legal submission contends the United States violated Carranza’s fundamental rights to life and due process during a September 15th maritime strike conducted as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified counter-narcotics campaign.

    The family’s complaint explicitly accuses US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth of authorizing the bombing without verifying the identities of those aboard targeted vessels, resulting in what they characterize as extra-judicial killings. They maintain Carranza was an innocent fisherman whose boat was disabled and adrift at the time of the attack, denying any involvement in drug trafficking.

    This incident has sparked significant diplomatic tension, with Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly condemning the strikes as violations of sovereignty and murder. Petro has pledged governmental support for Carranza’s family in their pursuit of justice. The case has emerged as a focal point for criticism against US military actions in the region, with reports indicating over 83 fatalities across 21 known strikes since early September.

    Legal experts and human rights organizations have raised alarms about the operation’s legality under international law, noting that drug trafficking does not constitute combat and thus doesn’t justify military engagement. Scrutiny intensified following revelations of a ‘double-tap’ strike on September 2nd, where the US military allegedly launched a second missile after survivors were spotted following an initial attack—a tactic potentially constituting war crimes under the Pentagon’s own guidelines.

    While the Trump administration has defended the strikes as necessary measures against ‘narco-terrorists’ and continues to threaten expanded operations—including possible land incursions into Venezuela—the IACHR now faces pressure to review the complaint and potentially refer the case to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.

  • Central Youth for Labour Hails ‘People-Centred’ Budget With Major Focus on Education

    Central Youth for Labour Hails ‘People-Centred’ Budget With Major Focus on Education

    The youth division of Antigua and Barbuda’s ruling Labour Party has enthusiastically endorsed Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s fiscal 2026 budget proposal, characterizing it as a transformative educational investment strategy. The Central Youth for Labour (CYFL) has identified the allocation of $220.1 million to the Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries as the government’s clear commitment to establishing education as the cornerstone of national advancement.

    This substantial financial commitment represents the largest ministerial allocation within the budget framework, signaling what the CYFL describes as the administration’s sustained dedication to enhancing educational accessibility. The youth organization emphasized that this strategic direction resonates with international movements advocating for inclusive, high-quality learning environments across developing nations.

    Statistical evidence reveals remarkable progress in tertiary education participation, with enrollment at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus experiencing an eightfold increase—from merely 173 students in 2019 to an anticipated 1,403 by 2025. Despite these gains, the CYFL acknowledged persistent financial challenges facing families regarding examination fees and post-secondary educational expenses.

    The budget introduces several groundbreaking initiatives including fully subsidized tuition at the Antigua & Barbuda College of Continuing Studies commencing 2026, complete government assumption of Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) fees, and an upcoming tuition-free program at UWI Five Islands following campus expansion completion.

    Substantial infrastructure developments are underway at the university campus, featuring a $200 million expansion project that will incorporate advanced laboratories, modernized classrooms, enhanced athletic facilities, and expanded student accommodation. These improvements are projected to establish Antigua and Barbuda as an emerging center for Caribbean higher education.

    The government’s comprehensive educational strategy extends beyond tertiary institutions, evidenced by the construction of the new Five Islands Primary School scheduled to open in January 2027. This demonstrates the administration’s holistic approach to educational enhancement spanning from early childhood development through university-level instruction.

    Prime Minister Browne reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to broadening post-secondary educational access and equipping younger generations with essential skills required for national economic and social development.

  • PM Says Long List of Duty-Free Vehicle Approvals Tied to Opposition MP

    PM Says Long List of Duty-Free Vehicle Approvals Tied to Opposition MP

    The Prime Minister has publicly addressed and justified the significant number of duty-free vehicle import approvals granted to Members of Parliament from opposition parties. This clarification comes amid public scrutiny over the allocation of tax-exempt vehicle privileges to political representatives.

    During a parliamentary session, the PM explained that these approvals are part of established protocols and entitlement systems available to all elected officials, regardless of their political affiliation. The system, designed to facilitate the official duties of parliamentarians, allows for the importation of vehicles without standard customs duties under specific regulatory frameworks.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that the approval process follows strict procedural guidelines and is not influenced by political considerations. This statement serves as a response to emerging questions about potential preferential treatment and aims to maintain transparency in governmental operations.

    This development highlights the ongoing discourse about parliamentary benefits and their perception by the general public. The administration maintains that all allocations are conducted in accordance with existing regulations governing official entitlements for elected representatives.

  • PM Browne Says His Comments About Harold Lovell Were Not Defamatory

    PM Browne Says His Comments About Harold Lovell Were Not Defamatory

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly defended his right to make critical statements about political opponents within the legislative chamber, specifically addressing recent controversial remarks directed at opposition parliamentarian Harold Lovell. The Prime Minister’s office issued a statement clarifying that his comments were protected under parliamentary privilege and therefore could not be considered defamatory under Antiguan law.

    The controversy emerged following a parliamentary session where Browne made allegations regarding Lovell’s political conduct and decision-making. The Prime Minister asserted that his statements were based on documented evidence and represented legitimate political discourse rather than personal attacks. Constitutional experts have noted that parliamentary privilege provides legal immunity for statements made during official proceedings, though this protection typically extends only to remarks made within the legislative chamber itself.

    This development occurs against a backdrop of increasing political tensions between the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party and the opposition United Progressive Party. Observers suggest the exchange reflects broader patterns of political rivalry in Caribbean democracies, where parliamentary privilege occasionally becomes a point of contention between governing and opposition parties.

    The Prime Minister’s statement emphasized his commitment to robust political debate while maintaining that his criticisms remained within constitutional boundaries. The opposition has yet to issue an official response to these latest developments regarding the parliamentary exchange.

  • Locally-made products now on sale on GMSA-sponsored website

    Locally-made products now on sale on GMSA-sponsored website

    In a significant move to bolster domestic commerce, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has officially relaunched its upgraded e-commerce platform, the UncappeD Marketplace. This digital hub now features a wide array of locally processed agricultural goods and manufactured products, offering nationwide free delivery services to consumers.

    The initiative, supported by at least 30 businesses currently operating on the platform, represents a strategic effort to empower local producers and expand their market reach. According to GMSA Communications Officer Nikeshia Castello, this development marks a pivotal advancement in enabling Guyanese entrepreneurs to scale their operations and establish direct connections with customers across the country.

    This project emerges from a collaborative memorandum of understanding between GMSA and the International Trade Centre (ITC), funded by the European Union. The partnership aims to enhance nutritious food production, reinforce food security, and develop sustainable value chains throughout the Caribbean region.

    GMSA Executive Member Ramsey Ali emphasized the timely nature of the website’s relaunch, urging citizens to support local entrepreneurs. He highlighted the substantial improvements in product labeling and packaging over the past decade, noting that these small businesses have demonstrated remarkable progress and now offer convenient shopping experiences.

    The association has announced forthcoming developments including a dedicated mobile application and expanded payment options through Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) and bank transfer facilities.

    GMSA President Rafeek Khan issued a compelling call for patriotic consumerism, stressing that supporting local brands is essential for national economic development. He affirmed that quality and standards continue to improve significantly, making local products increasingly competitive.

    In a related development, Khan revealed that the 62-year-old association plans to invest GY$250 million in establishing a private business incubator for companies of all sizes, demonstrating the private sector’s commitment to fostering economic growth independent of government initiatives.

  • U13 cricket final pits Babonneau against Soufrière

    U13 cricket final pits Babonneau against Soufrière

    The Phillip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort will serve as the battleground for the historic conclusion of the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association’s inaugural Under-13 tournament this Saturday, December 6. Sponsored by Laborie Credit Union, the championship match between Babonneau and Soufrière promises to showcase emerging cricketing talent at 2 p.m.

    Last weekend’s semifinals unfolded under challenging weather conditions with overcast skies and strong winds. In the first semifinal at Soufrière Stadium, Babonneau secured their place in the finals through a commanding performance. After winning the toss, captain Jovonnie Dorville elected to field first, restricting Desruisseaux to a modest 69-7 from their allotted 15 overs. Liam Anderson emerged as the standout batsman for Desruisseaux with 22 runs, while Babonneau’s bowling attack demonstrated remarkable discipline with Jahim Mathurin and Dorville each claiming two wickets, supported by tight spells from Michael Jones, Vincy Cadasse, and Kerlani Joseph.

    Babonneau’s response was equally impressive as they comfortably chased down the target, finishing at 71-2. Vice-captain Vincy Cadasse redeemed himself from recent subpar performances with an unbeaten half-century that anchored the successful run chase.

    The second semifinal witnessed Soufrière’s dominant bowling display against Dennery. The home team’s disciplined attack dismantled Dennery’s batting lineup, bowling them out for a mere 36 runs. Kaiden Charlery emerged as the bowling sensation with impressive figures of 3-7, effectively containing Dennery’s batters throughout the innings.

    Despite facing early challenges in their run chase and losing wickets at regular intervals, Soufrière demonstrated resilience by surpassing Dennery’s total in the eighth over with seven wickets down. Eric Flavien complemented Charlery’s performance with an outstanding bowling effort of 4-13.

    Tournament organizers and cricket enthusiasts have praised the competition for exceeding its developmental objectives. The initiative has successfully revived cricket in regions where the sport had previously remained dormant, providing a significant boost to grassroots programs across the island. SLNCA president Wayne Auguste’s vision, coupled with Laborie Credit Union’s sponsorship, has created a sustainable platform for youth cricket development.

    Choiseul coach and umpire Johann Williams emphasized the tournament’s importance: “We haven’t had cricket at this level since my childhood. The progression from these young players has been remarkable, and while there’s room for improvement, their continuous development bodes well for Saint Lucian cricket’s future.”

    Although Laborie’s team didn’t advance beyond the initial knockout round, their unbeaten preliminary record has ignited renewed interest in the community. Makeva Anthony, representing the Laborie program, noted: “The credit union’s support has revealed the latent interest in cricket within our community. This tournament has shown we’ve been underestimating our children’s potential.”

    The championship match between Babonneau’s consistent bowling and batting depth versus Soufrière’s pressure-handling capabilities and home advantage promises an exhilarating conclusion to this groundbreaking development tournament.

  • International athletes shine as Run Barbados earns World Athletics certification

    International athletes shine as Run Barbados earns World Athletics certification

    Barbados has significantly elevated its position in the global sports tourism arena following the prestigious World Athletics certification awarded to its Run Barbados event. This accreditation, announced for the December 5-7 road-running festival, formally integrates the island nation into the international competitive athletics circuit, transforming it into a qualifying destination for major global marathons.

    The certification’s immediate impact was evident during the recent event, where international athletes dominated the podium. Colombia’s Sergio Lopez clinched victory in the FLOW Sand Dunes Half Marathon with a time of 1:11:31, followed closely by compatriot Oscar Acosta. The full marathon titles were claimed by Jamaica’s Jason Baker (2:46:31) and Colombia’s Palmenia Raquel (2:55:17) in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.

    According to Kamal Springer, Sports Manager at Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., this development represents a strategic advancement in the island’s tourism marketing. ‘This designation enables athletes worldwide to pursue official qualifying times, ranking points, and recruitment opportunities while experiencing Barbados,’ Springer noted. The island now boasts two internationally accredited sporting events, with Run Barbados joining its World Surf League-certified surfing competitions.

    Beyond international appeal, Springer emphasized the initiative’s domestic benefits: ‘We’re actively promoting our international calendar to local athletes, providing them with exposure to world-class standards right in their backyard.’ The program collaborates with the National Sports Council and Ministry of Sports, Youth and Culture to ensure community engagement and participation.

    Future developments include expanding the event’s wellness components to attract non-competitive visitors, leveraging Barbados’s natural assets of beaches, cuisine, and tranquil environment. Springer confirmed ongoing discussions to host additional major events, including the World Bridge Championship in 2027, as part of a targeted strategy to address seasonal tourism fluctuations through sports tourism initiatives.