Carib Scope

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  • Woordvoerder president: vaste percentages ingevoerd na evaluatie

    Woordvoerder president: vaste percentages ingevoerd na evaluatie

    The Presidential Cabinet has implemented a major restructuring of ministerial allowances following an internal evaluation, establishing three fixed compensation categories of 20%, 40%, and 60%. Presidential spokesperson Roberto Lindveld confirmed the policy shift amid growing public debate surrounding supplementary payments to government officials.

    According to Lindveld, cabinet allowances have been institutional practice for approximately fifteen to sixteen years, with successive administrations implementing varying approaches to supplementary compensation. President Jennifer Simons, upon assuming office in 2025, initiated a comprehensive assessment to determine eligibility criteria and establish clear parameters for allowance distribution based on specific job functions.

    The newly implemented framework designates the 20% allowance tier for staff members who maintain daily working proximity to the president, regularly work overtime, and are ineligible for separate overtime compensation. This fixed monthly allocation aims to prevent potentially higher costs associated with traditional overtime reimbursement systems.

    Middle management personnel qualify for the 40% category, while the highest compensation tier of 60% is reserved for senior officials including directors and advisors who engage in intensive, extended-duration collaboration with the president. Lindveld emphasized that the president personally determines eligibility for this premium category based on both positional authority and demonstrated commitment.

    The presidential office’s detailed explanation represents a strategic effort to enhance transparency and provide clarity regarding the administration’s allowance policy amid increasing public scrutiny of government expenditure practices.

  • Belize Moves Toward Solar Power

    Belize Moves Toward Solar Power

    In a significant stride toward sustainable energy transformation, Belize has formally initiated development of a nationwide solar power infrastructure project. The ambitious endeavor, a collaborative effort between Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), the national government, and the International Finance Corporation, aims to establish up to 80 megawatts of large-scale solar generation capacity across multiple strategic locations.

    The project advancement commenced with BEL’s issuance of a formal ‘Request for Prequalification’ on January 26th, 2026. This preliminary procurement phase seeks to identify and vet qualified private sector entities capable of developing solar installations at three to four designated sites throughout the country.

    The operational framework will follow the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, wherein selected companies will assume full responsibility for financing, construction, ownership, and long-term operational management of the solar facilities. These private entities will maintain plant operations over a 25-year contractual period, with BEL committing to purchase the generated electricity through power purchase agreements.

    This renewable energy initiative represents a cornerstone of Belize’s national energy strategy, which targets generating 75% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The solar expansion is projected to substantially diminish Belize’s reliance on imported electricity while simultaneously enhancing grid stability and power supply reliability for consumers nationwide.

    The prequalification stage serves as the critical first filter in the competitive selection process. Only companies demonstrating robust technical expertise, financial capacity, and proven experience in utility-scale solar development will advance to the subsequent phase, where they will be invited to submit comprehensive project proposals.

  • Rise & Thrive initiative strengthens community leadership in Kingston ZOSO

    Rise & Thrive initiative strengthens community leadership in Kingston ZOSO

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A transformative initiative is delivering crucial support to community organizations operating within Kingston and St Andrew’s most vulnerable neighborhoods. The six-month Rise & Thrive project, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and implemented by the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS), represents a strategic intervention in four Zones of Special Operations (ZOSOs) communities: Parade Gardens, Greenwich Town, Denham Town and August Town.

    The program specifically addresses governance gaps that have emerged following the initial security-focused phases of Jamaica’s ZOSO framework. According to Project Manager Damion Hylton, while earlier ZOSO phases concentrated on ‘clearing and holding’ operations, the crucial ‘build phase’ requires strengthened community governance to ensure sustainable social and infrastructure development.

    Rather than introducing new programs, the initiative focuses on enhancing existing community-led efforts through institutional capacity building. In close collaboration with the Social Development Commission (SDC), the project provides targeted training in governance structures, project planning, financial management, and monitoring systems. This approach enables Community Development Committees (CDCs) and other grassroots organizations to transition into formal civil society entities capable of independently accessing funding and implementing programs.

    A distinctive feature of the initiative is its emphasis on youth leadership development. Recognizing that young people are both disproportionately affected by violence and statistically overrepresented in crime statistics, the program actively cultivates their participation in community decision-making processes.

    The personal impact is already evident among participants. Jada Brown, a 20-year-old university student from August Town, reports that the leadership training has transformed her self-perception: ‘Being selected as a leader for change has made me feel empowered. I believe I can use what I’ve learnt to inspire other young people.’

    Similarly, Hopeton Robinson of Parade Gardens has leveraged the initiative to advance youth development through a football program that successfully unites youths from previously conflicting communities.

    The project incorporates peacebuilding, restorative justice, and violence interruption approaches to address various community conflicts beyond crime reduction. By the conclusion of the six-month period, communities are expected to demonstrate more active CDCs, enhanced collaboration among civil society groups, and stronger partnerships with government agencies through coordinated ‘community conversations’ that assess needs and reduce effort duplication.

  • TotalEnergies Jamaica donates 1,884 solar lamps to aid hurricane recovery

    TotalEnergies Jamaica donates 1,884 solar lamps to aid hurricane recovery

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to post-hurricane recovery efforts, TotalEnergies Jamaica has delivered 1,884 solar-powered lamps to humanitarian organizations across the island. The substantial donation, distributed between Food For The Poor (FFTP) and the Salvation Army, was formally presented during a ceremony at the energy company’s corporate headquarters last Friday.

    This initiative addresses a critical infrastructure gap persisting after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage. While Jamaica Public Service has worked to restore main power grids, Marsha Burrell-Rose, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at FFTP, highlighted that numerous remote mountainous communities remain without electricity and telecommunications. “These solar lamps will definitely help us because, if they don’t have anything, they do have sunlight in abundance,” she stated, expressing gratitude for the 1,164 lamps allocated to her organization.

    The Salvation Army received 720 units, which Colonel Edward Lyons, Chief Secretary for Caribbean Territorial Emergency Disaster Services, described as meeting an urgent need. “People have been calling for these same lamps for a long time,” Lyons revealed. “They are very scarce. It’s the first time this amount has ever been made available locally.” He emphasized that the lamps provide a vital alternative for residents who cannot afford generators, though distribution would require careful planning to maximize impact.

    TotalEnergies executives Howard Henry (Retail, Shops, Foods and Services Manager) and Ulanda Graham (Human Resources Director) emphasized their deliberate selection of partner organizations based on rigorous due diligence. Burrell-Rose affirmed FFTP’s operational transparency, noting their 43-year track record: “We don’t just give away items. We capture data, monitor and evaluate. We believe in showing people how we are spending their money.”

    The solar lamps represent the latest phase in TotalEnergies’ comprehensive hurricane response, which began November 13 with 700 care packages delivered to St. Elizabeth and included subsequent monetary donations of $10,000 to Jamaica Red Cross and $20,000 to FFTP in December.

    Managing Director Vincent Daniault, who witnessed the hurricane’s unprecedented destruction firsthand, expressed his personal commitment to the relief efforts. Having toured affected areas from Montego Bay to Black River, he recounted: “The buildings were destroyed and trees stripped bare. It was difficult not to act seeing the kids and people. I have never seen anything like this.”

    The distributed Sunshine 150 Solar Lamps represent advanced appropriate technology, featuring detachable solar panels, USB ports for mobile phone charging, and capability to provide up to 100 hours of illumination across four lighting modes. Valued at approximately $60 per unit internationally, these lamps have previously been deployed by TotalEnergies in energy-deprived regions of Africa, reflecting the company’s broader commitment to energy access in vulnerable communities.

  • Lamonth Rochester moves to Serbia

    Lamonth Rochester moves to Serbia

    Jamaican professional footballer Lamonth Rochester has embarked on a significant European career move, finalizing a transfer to Serbian SuperLiga side Radnicki FC during the January transfer window. The 22-year-old wingback arrives from Club Tijuana’s U21 squad in Mexico, bringing international experience from his tenure with MLS II team Chicago Fire and Mexican club Dorado Sinaloa.

    The former Manchester High and Cavalier SC player brings a diverse footballing background to the Serbian club, which currently occupies eighth position in the 16-team SuperLiga. Rochester’s career includes representing Jamaica at multiple youth levels before earning a single senior cap for the Reggae Boyz in an international friendly match.

    Expressing optimism about his new challenge, Rochester stated: ‘I bring substantial experience to this new chapter. My objective is to contribute to a successful season, helping Radnicki climb the league table while injecting positive energy and results into the squad.’

    The Jamaican international highlighted the competitive environment within the team, noting: ‘Training sessions demonstrate excellent quality with tremendous competitive spirit. With multiple players competing for similar positions, the constant battle for starting spots elevates everyone’s performance level.’

    Rochester emphasized the importance of team cohesion developed during their preparatory period: ‘Our two-week training camp in Turkey proved invaluable for building understanding among teammates, which remains crucial for collective success. I anticipate making meaningful contributions to the team’s future achievements.’

    The transition marks another milestone for the Angelina Community College alumnus as he continues his professional development in European football.

  • Jamaican model walks Paris show

    Jamaican model walks Paris show

    Jamaican fashion representation reached new heights this week as Sanique Dill, a model from the Kingston-based agency SAINT International, graced the runway for the acclaimed VIKTOR & ROLF Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2026 presentation in Paris. The Wednesday showcase, held in the global fashion capital, featured Dill among an elite selection of models presenting the Dutch design duo’s latest artistic creations. This appearance marks a significant milestone for both the model and the Caribbean fashion industry, demonstrating the continued globalization of haute couture’s traditionally exclusive landscape. Dill’s participation follows her development through SAINT International’s platform, which has consistently propelled Jamaican talent onto international stages. The Spring/Summer 2026 collection itself presented theatrical silhouettes and avant-garde designs that characterize Viktor & Rolf’s signature approach to fashion as wearable art. This runway appearance provides substantial visibility for emerging models from non-traditional fashion markets, potentially signaling increased diversity in high fashion selections moving forward.

  • $1.7b programme to rehabilitate 200 roads by March

    $1.7b programme to rehabilitate 200 roads by March

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has initiated an ambitious $1.7 billion Graded Overlay Emergency Road Rehabilitation (GO) Programme to address widespread infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. With a target completion date set for the end of March, the comprehensive initiative aims to restore approximately 200 roadways across multiple parishes.

    Minister Robert Morgan, who holds portfolio responsibility for Works within the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, provided detailed allocations during a recent post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House. The program, which commenced in December, represents one of the most significant infrastructure rehabilitation efforts in recent years.

    Clarendon Parish will receive $206 million for critical repairs along major transportation corridors including Four Paths to Guinep Tree, Hazard Drive, Bustamante Highway, and routes connecting Whitney Turn, Four Paths to Freetown, and the road to Porus. Additional funding will address infrastructure in Salt River Road, Rastaman Corner, Portland Cottage, May Pen to Chapelton, Colonel’s Ridge to Kellits, Spalding, Cave Valley, Pennants, Frankfield, Summerfield and Trout Hall.

    The capital region of Kingston and St. Andrew has been allocated $500 million for extensive roadway improvements. This funding will rehabilitate essential corridors including Mannings Hill Road, Washington Boulevard, Duhaney Drive, Perkins Boulevard, Red Hills Road, Slipe Road, and the connecting route from Golden Spring to Stony Hill. Additional repairs will focus on Stony Hill to Manor Park, Weymouth Drive, Arcadia, Shortwood Road, Papine Square to Gordon Town, and John Golding Road.

    Western parishes will also see substantial investment, with St. James receiving $130 million for main corridor repairs and an additional $100 million designated for Montpelier works. The Montego Bay township will undergo comprehensive rehabilitation including Barnett Street, St. James Street, and Howard Cooke Boulevard, alongside the critical connecting routes from Anchovy to Shettlewood and Reading to Anchovy.

    Trelawny Parish has been allocated $107 million for roadway repairs in Salt Marsh, Bengal, Falmouth, Duncans, Long Pond, Wire Fence, Warsop, and Jackson Town. Meanwhile, Westmoreland will benefit from approximately $100 million in funding for infrastructure rehabilitation in Goodens, Glasgow, Bartlett’s River, Negril, Ferris Cross, Torrington, and Scott’s Cove.

    Minister Morgan emphasized that these allocations are separate from ongoing repairs addressing roads washed out by Hurricane Melissa. Despite implementation challenges including heavy rainfall and temporary asphalt plant closures, the Minister confirmed the program is progressing earnestly. Most contractors have either submitted required insurance documentation to the National Works Agency or are in the final stages of compliance, with physical work expected to commence before month’s end.

  • JFJ calls for prompt, fair investigation into sexual harassment allegations against MP Dwayne Vaz

    JFJ calls for prompt, fair investigation into sexual harassment allegations against MP Dwayne Vaz

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent human rights organization Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) has broken its customary silence on individual cases to address serious sexual misconduct allegations against Central Westmoreland parliamentarian Dwayne Vaz of the opposition People’s National Party (PNP). The advocacy group has called for immediate, transparent investigative procedures that uphold both legal standards and principles of accountability.

    In an unusual Wednesday statement, JFJ explained that the gravity of the accusations—coupled with Vaz’s legislative position—necessitated commentary on broader governance principles. As an elected official, Vaz holds direct influence over gender equality legislation, workplace protection laws, and harassment prevention statutes, making proper accountability mechanisms critically important.

    The allegations surfaced publicly through statements from Councillor Julian Chang, prompting JFJ to emphasize the necessity for robust institutional responses. The organization specifically referenced Jamaica’s Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act of 2021, which categorizes unwelcome sexual advances that create hostile environments as unlawful conduct. The legislation mandates that organizations prevent harassment, conduct impartial investigations, protect complainants from retaliation, and provide redress pathways.

    JFJ urged the PNP to immediately launch an internal investigation that demonstrates accountability, transparency, and fairness, noting that political parties must exemplify national legal standards. Simultaneously, the organization encouraged Councillor Chang to pursue formal complaints through appropriate channels where applicable, ensuring full legal protections and access to remedies.

    While acknowledging Vaz’s public denial of the allegations, JFJ maintained that only evidence-based, impartial investigations can establish factual truths. The organization explicitly refrained from judging the allegations’ validity or any party’s culpability, instead emphasizing the necessity of due process for all involved.

    JFJ reminded the public that sexual harassment constitutes a severe rights violation capable of causing substantial harm, cautioning against victim-blaming in public discourse. Concurrently, the organization reaffirmed that presumption of innocence remains a fundamental justice principle, entitling the accused to a fair and unbiased process.

    The advocacy group concluded by urging the PNP to ensure active, impartial investigation without partisan alignment, stating such an approach is essential for cultivating a culture where harassment is neither tolerated nor minimized.

  • Harsher penalties for offences targeting minors

    Harsher penalties for offences targeting minors

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s government has announced sweeping reforms to its cybercrime legislation, introducing substantially harsher penalties for digital offenses targeting minors. The 2026 Cybercrimes (Amendment Act), unveiled during a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday, represents a comprehensive legal response to growing concerns about children’s vulnerability in digital environments.

    Dr. Andrew Wheatley, Minister with responsibility for Science, Technology and Special Projects, detailed the legislative enhancements at the Office of the Prime Minister. The amendments specifically address the heightened risks faced by minors in cyberspace, establishing robust legal protections against online exploitation and abuse.

    The revised legislation mandates severe consequences for crimes targeting individuals under 18, with judicial authorities now empowered to impose prison sentences extending up to 20 years for applicable offenses. This sentencing framework represents one of the region’s most stringent approaches to cybercrimes against children.

    A pivotal aspect of the reform concerns the legal concept of consent regarding minors. The legislation explicitly states that individuals below 18 years cannot provide legal consent for the publication of intimate images, eliminating previous ambiguities in such cases.

    The amendments are designed to address the rapid dissemination of harmful content across digital platforms while preventing secondary victimization of children through online channels. By strengthening enforcement mechanisms and enhancing protective measures, the government aims to create a safer digital environment for Jamaica’s youth.

    Minister Wheatley emphasized that these measures demonstrate the government’s commitment to confronting digital threats against minors with serious consequences, while simultaneously adapting legal frameworks to address emerging challenges in an increasingly interconnected society.

  • DCS upgrading key institutional spaces to raise standard of care and rehabilitation

    DCS upgrading key institutional spaces to raise standard of care and rehabilitation

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is executing a comprehensive modernization strategy focused on transforming institutional infrastructure and security protocols to elevate rehabilitation standards for incarcerated individuals. Commissioner noted this initiative during his address at the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) 10th Best Practice Symposium for Social and Community Renewal on January 28.

    The commissioner emphasized that rehabilitation begins immediately upon intake, with enhanced physical environments serving as foundational to educational advancement, skills acquisition, and personal development. “Our commitment to humane treatment extends to improving the physical environment where rehabilitation occurs,” he stated, announcing an upcoming media tour to showcase these transformations publicly.

    Substantial upgrades have been applied to critical facilities including classrooms, vocational workshops for tailoring and welding, computer laboratories, and inmate radio stations. These improvements are designed to meet professional benchmarks equivalent to national training institutions and HEART/NSTA Trust standards. “These are deliberate enhancements creating dignified, structured spaces for meaningful rehabilitation,” Commissioner Mason affirmed.

    A significant outcome of this initiative will be the launch of an online store featuring products crafted by offenders, advancing institutional self-sufficiency and inmate earning potential. Concurrently, the DCS is reinforcing security through state-of-the-art full-body and bag scanners at all facilities, plus a specialized gate management team to standardize procedures and enhance vigilance during critical hours.

    The department is also implementing dynamic inmate reclassification processes that support appropriate work placements and enable qualified individuals to transfer to lower-security institutions. This evidence-based approach tailors interventions to individual risk levels, accounting for literacy, mental health needs, and learning styles to maximize rehabilitation efficacy.