Carib Scope

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  • Aswad’s 1988 cover of ‘Don’t Turn Around’ goes gold in New Zealand

    Aswad’s 1988 cover of ‘Don’t Turn Around’ goes gold in New Zealand

    The British reggae ensemble Aswad has attained a significant milestone as their 1988 rendition of ‘Don’t Turn Around’ received gold certification in New Zealand on January 18. This prestigious recognition commemorates the achievement of digital sales and streaming figures equivalent to 15,000 units, underscoring the track’s enduring popularity more than three decades after its initial release.

    Originally composed by Diane Warren and Albert Hammond, ‘Don’t Turn Around’ was first recorded by Tina Turner as the B-side to her 1986 single ‘Typical Male.’ The composition has since been reinterpreted by multiple artists throughout the years, with notable versions by Neil Diamond, Ace of Base, and most successfully by Aswad.

    Aswad’s interpretation served as the lead single from their twelfth studio album, ‘Distant Thunder,’ and achieved remarkable commercial success upon its 1988 debut. The track dominated charts internationally, securing the number one position on the UK Singles Chart and maintaining the top spot for two consecutive weeks on the New Zealand charts in June 1988. The single further demonstrated its cross-continental appeal by entering the top ten in numerous European markets including Norway, Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, Denmark, and Belgium. In the United States, the recording reached number 45 on Billboard’s Hot R&B Singles chart.

    This recent gold certification in New Zealand adds to the song’s previous accolade of silver certification in the United Kingdom, highlighting the continued resonance of Aswad’s reggae-infused interpretation across generations and geographies.

  • Decomposed body found in car in St Elizabeth

    Decomposed body found in car in St Elizabeth

    Authorities in St Elizabeth have launched a comprehensive investigation following the grim discovery of a severely decomposed male body inside a parked vehicle in Lacovia on Wednesday morning. The unsettling find was initially reported by local residents at approximately 10:00 am after they observed an unusual concentration of flies surrounding the automobile. Upon closer examination, the witnesses made the disturbing discovery of human remains within the vehicle and immediately alerted law enforcement officials. Police personnel promptly secured the area and conducted a thorough forensic processing of the scene as part of their standard investigative protocol. The remains have been subsequently transferred to a medical facility for official autopsy procedures. Law enforcement representatives have indicated that the autopsy results will be crucial in determining both the cause of death and the exact circumstances surrounding this incident. The identity of the deceased individual remains undisclosed pending formal identification procedures and notification of next of kin. Police investigators are currently pursuing multiple lines of inquiry while appealing to the public for any relevant information that might assist in reconstructing the events leading to this tragic discovery.

  • 200 main roads to be patched by March under $1.7 billion ‘Go Programme’ – Morgan

    200 main roads to be patched by March under $1.7 billion ‘Go Programme’ – Morgan

    Jamaica’s comprehensive $1.7 billion ‘Go Programme’ for national road infrastructure repairs will extend beyond parishes severely affected by Hurricane Melissa, according to Works Minister Robert Morgan. While initially prioritizing western parishes devastated by the hurricane, the government has recognized that road damage exists island-wide, necessitating a broader approach.

    Minister Morgan, speaking at Wednesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing at Jamaica House, revealed that approximately 200 roads will undergo repairs by the end of March under the ambitious program. The minister provided detailed breakdowns of allocations across multiple parishes, demonstrating the nationwide scope of the infrastructure initiative.

    Clarendon Parish is set to receive $206 million for critical corridors including Four Paths to Guinep Tree, Hazard Drive, and Bustamante Highway, alongside numerous other vital routes. The capital region of Kingston and St. Andrew will benefit from a substantial $500 million investment targeting major thoroughfares such as Mannings Hill Road, Washington Boulevard, and Red Hills Road.

    Additional significant allocations include $130 million for St. James Parish, covering Montego Bay’s entire township and connecting routes, $107 million for Trelawny’s road network, and $100 million specifically for Westmoreland to address both hurricane-related damage and existing infrastructure needs. Minister Morgan emphasized that publicly listing the targeted corridors demonstrates governmental acknowledgment of the widespread road deterioration while assuring citizens that ‘solutions are coming’ with many projects already underway.

  • Nicki Minaj says she is Donald Trump’s ‘number one fan’

    Nicki Minaj says she is Donald Trump’s ‘number one fan’

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a striking display of political allegiance, global music icon Nicki Minaj publicly proclaimed herself to be former President Donald Trump’s foremost supporter during a presidential summit event this Wednesday. The Trinidadian-born rapper, born Onika Maraj, joined Trump onstage at the White House gathering focused on financial initiatives.

    Trump enthusiastically introduced the performer, hailing her as ‘the greatest and most successful female rapper in history’ and acknowledging her steadfast support. Minaj responded with unequivocal endorsement, stating: ‘I am probably the president’s number one fan, and that’s not going to change.’

    The artist demonstrated remarkable resilience against criticism, noting that opposition only strengthens her commitment. ‘The hate or what people have to say? It does not affect me at all; it actually motivates me to support him more,’ Minaj declared as Trump stood approvingly behind her.

    Addressing Trump’s supporters directly, Minaj framed the political climate as a battle against perceived injustice, asserting: ‘We’re not gonna let them get away with bullying him and the smear campaigns. It’s not going to work. He has a lot of force behind him, and God is protecting him.’

    The rapper’s political alignment marks a significant development in celebrity-political relationships. Having immigrated to the United States at age five, Minaj has built an extraordinary music career while recently expressing conservative leanings through her substantial social media presence.

  • Work to commence on 401 SPARK roads by end of March, says Morgan

    Work to commence on 401 SPARK roads by end of March, says Morgan

    The Jamaican government has announced a significant acceleration of its landmark infrastructure initiative, the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) Programme. Robert Morgan, Minister with responsibility for Works, confirmed that construction work is expected to begin on 401 roads under the ambitious program by the conclusion of March.

    During Wednesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing at Jamaica House, Minister Morgan provided a comprehensive update on the $45 billion national project designed to rehabilitate over 600 roads within a two-year timeframe. The minister revealed that approximately $4 billion has already been expended since work commenced in December 2024, with an additional $5.2 billion allocated for expenditure throughout this year.

    The implementation timeline has faced substantial challenges due to Hurricane Melissa, which necessitated the postponement of numerous projects. In response to the natural disaster, primary contractor China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) was mobilized to assist in recovery and cleanup operations across affected regions.

    Since resuming normal operations, CHEC has received instructions to initiate work on 132 additional roads by March, bringing the active total to 258 projects. Furthermore, instructions for commencing work on an additional 143 roads will be issued by month’s end, achieving the targeted 401 active projects.

    Current progress indicates 84 roads are either completed or under active construction, with 56 already paved. Minister Morgan elaborated on the comprehensive design process required before physical work begins, emphasizing that most Jamaican roads historically evolved from community pathways without proper engineering design.

    The SPARK Programme introduces rigorous design standards including soil testing, topographic analysis, hydrological assessment, and drainage installation. This methodological approach results in significantly higher construction standards with costs ranging between $40-45 million per kilometer, substantially exceeding traditional road expenditure of approximately $20 million per kilometer.

    Project completion typically requires two to three months per road, though complex cases such as Harbour Heights in East Kingston and Port Royal required nearly a year due to unforeseen challenges including asbestos pipe replacement and retaining wall installations.

    Despite these achievements, Minister Morgan expressed uncertainty regarding public recognition of these unprecedented infrastructure developments, noting that no previous administration has initiated 401 road projects within such a compressed timeframe. Further acceleration is anticipated during summer months when the main road component targeting 63 major highways nationwide commences operations.

  • WATCH: NSWMA workers protest after colleague dies of electrocution

    WATCH: NSWMA workers protest after colleague dies of electrocution

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Grief and frustration erupted at the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) headquarters as sanitation workers staged an emotional protest following the tragic death of their colleague Garfield Johnson. The sanitation worker succumbed to severe burn injuries on Tuesday, January 27, after being electrocuted during operations in the Greenwich Farm community of St Andrew eleven days prior.

    According to official reports, the fatal incident occurred on January 16 when Johnson was performing his duties on a garbage truck that became entangled with live electrical wiring. Despite being rushed to medical facilities and considered for transfer to a specialized burn unit, Johnson could not overcome his critical injuries.

    The protest revealed significant tension between frontline workers and management, with attendees expressing anger over perceived communication failures following the tragedy. Mourners gathered outside NSWMA offices weeping openly while displaying placards bearing messages including ‘RIP’ and ‘No justice.’

    Audley Gordon, Executive Director of NSWMA, countered claims of inadequate response, stating that authority officials had maintained consistent contact with Johnson’s family since the incident and had visited him in hospital. Gordon emphasized the organization’s commitment to allowing space for collective grieving, describing Johnson as ‘a dedicated sanitation officer’ who ‘served up to the point of his demise.’

    In an official statement, the NSWMA acknowledged the inherent dangers faced by sanitation workers across Jamaica and extended condolences to Johnson’s family and colleagues. The Jamaica Public Service Company has launched its own investigation into the electrocution incident, while police authorities continue their separate inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the operational tragedy.

  • Lila Ike to make Grammy performance debut

    Lila Ike to make Grammy performance debut

    Jamaican reggae sensation Lila Ike is poised for a groundbreaking moment at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards this Sunday, where she will not only compete as a first-time nominee but also grace the stage as a performer at the prestigious event’s opening ceremony. The Manchester-born artist announced her dual participation through social media on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in her rapidly ascending career.

    Ike’s nomination in the Best Reggae Album category for her critically acclaimed debut project ‘Treasure Self Love’ places her among an elite group of Jamaican artists including Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Keznamdi, and Mortimer. Notably, she stands as the sole female contender in this year’s category, potentially following in the footsteps of Koffee, who remains the only woman to have ever won the Best Reggae Album trophy.

    The album itself represents a collaborative masterpiece, featuring contributions from Grammy-winning R&B superstar H.E.R., renowned rapper Joey Badass, and her mentor Protoje—a Grammy-nominated reggae artist in his own right. This musical convergence has positioned ‘Treasure Self Love’ as both a commercial success and critical darling within the international music scene.

    Reflecting on her journey, Ike shared an emotional tribute to her younger self: “I remember the little girl who loved singing and decided she wanted to be an artiste. Attending the GRAMMYs was a very big dream of hers. Now, not only do I get to walk the red carpet as a nominee, but I’m also honoured to be performing at the opening ceremony.”

    The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony will be held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, where music’s biggest stars will gather to celebrate artistic excellence across genres. Ike’s participation represents not just personal achievement but a significant moment for female representation within the reggae industry.

  • Chuck Fenda links up with Dolly Don for ‘Weh Me Like’

    Chuck Fenda links up with Dolly Don for ‘Weh Me Like’

    An unexpected musical partnership between emerging dancehall artist Dolly Don and established reggae star Chuck Fenda has ignited substantial excitement within the music industry. Their collaborative single ‘Weh Me Like,’ recently remixed and leaked on producer Rvssian’s Recovery rhythm, has generated an immediate viral response, particularly among younger digital audiences.

    The collaboration originated organically years ago when Fenda contacted Dolly Don regarding a potential musical partnership. ‘Chuck Fenda reached out to me about a riddim he believed would suit my style,’ Dolly Don explained. ‘He came to my home studio, and we created the record spontaneously on the spot.’ The recent decision to remix the track on Rvssian’s popular rhythm transformed the previously recorded material into a contemporary dancehall sensation.

    Industry response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing surprise at Chuck Fenda’s participation in a pure dancehall project given his established Rastafarian principles and previous musical direction. The veteran artist acknowledged the unexpected attention, stating: ‘My phone has been constantly ringing with industry players verifying my involvement. People genuinely appreciate the song’s creativity, fresh sound, and clever lyrics that have been absent from dancehall recently.’

    Dolly Don expressed particular excitement about recognition from established industry figures. Prominent influencers including Pink Panther and Foota Hype have shared and reviewed the track on their platforms, significantly amplifying its reach. ‘Seeing legends share your work and endorse your music is truly amazing,’ she commented, describing the experience as potentially ‘life-changing.’

    The overwhelming online response, comprising hundreds of shares and enthusiastic listener engagement, has accelerated plans for a music video. Pre-production and creative planning are currently underway, with potential filming locations including Miami, Atlanta, or Jamaica pending final approvals.

    This collaboration continues Chuck Fenda’s history of successful partnerships with female artists, reminiscent of his 2007 hit ‘Are You Coming Over Tonight’ with Cherine Anderson and more recent work with dancehall artist Jada Kingdom.

    The single’s future commercial release currently depends on obtaining formal approval from producer Rvssian. Dolly Don confirmed that discussions are ongoing through marketing and PR teams to secure necessary clearances and bring the officially approved track to market.

  • Google unveils AI tool probing mysteries of human genome

    Google unveils AI tool probing mysteries of human genome

    PARIS — Google DeepMind has launched a groundbreaking artificial intelligence system designed to decode the complex language of human genetics, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of genetic diseases and paving the way for innovative treatments.

    The newly unveiled AlphaGenome represents a significant advancement in genomic research, employing deep learning algorithms to interpret the previously enigmatic regions of human DNA. This development comes from the same research division that produced AlphaFold, the AI system that recently earned a Nobel Prize in Chemistry for its protein structure predictions.

    Pushmeet Kohli, Google DeepMind’s Vice President of Research, explained the historical context: “The first complete human genome sequence in 2003 provided us with the fundamental text of life. However, comprehending its intricate grammar—how our DNA actually governs biological processes—has remained one of science’s most challenging frontiers.”

    The human genome consists of approximately three billion nucleotide pairs, represented by the genetic letters A, T, C, and G. While merely two percent of this genetic material contains protein-coding instructions, the remaining 98 percent—once dismissively labeled ‘junk DNA’—is now recognized as containing crucial regulatory functions that direct cellular operations.

    AlphaGenome’s sophisticated model was trained on extensive public datasets measuring non-coding DNA across hundreds of human and murine cell and tissue types. The AI demonstrates remarkable capability in analyzing extended DNA sequences and predicting how individual nucleotide pairs influence various biological processes within cells.

    This technological breakthrough enables researchers to simulate and study the fundamental mechanisms behind difficult-to-treat genetic conditions by examining the disease-associated variants contained within non-coding DNA regions. The research findings supporting AlphaGenome’s development have been published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature.

    The scientific community has welcomed AlphaGenome as a transformative tool that could accelerate genetic research and potentially lead to novel therapeutic approaches for conditions with genetic components.

  • Murders plummet 31% as major crime hits record lows

    Murders plummet 31% as major crime hits record lows

    The Bahamas has witnessed a dramatic downturn in criminal activity during 2025, marking one of the most significant nationwide crime reductions in decades. Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles unveiled these transformative results during the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s annual crime briefing, revealing substantial declines across multiple major offense categories.

    Preliminary statistical analysis indicates an overall 15 percent reduction in major crimes, decreasing from 2,825 incidents in 2024 to 2,409 cases in 2025. This positive trend manifested across all regions, with New Providence leading at 16 percent reduction, followed by the Family Islands at 13 percent, and Grand Bahama with the Northern Bahamas region at 8 percent.

    Violent crimes against persons demonstrated particularly impressive improvement, plunging by 27 percent from 696 to 509 reported cases. The most striking development emerged in homicide statistics, which recorded an unprecedented 31 percent decline—from 120 murders in 2024 to 83 in 2025. Commissioner Knowles emphasized this represents both the largest percentage decrease since national crime tracking began in 1963 and the lowest homicide count in a comparable policing environment since 2008.

    Geographic distribution of homicides showed New Providence accounting for 76 killings, while the Family Islands and Grand Bahama recorded 4 and 3 respectively. Demographic analysis revealed 83 percent of victims were aged 18-45, with males comprising 93 percent of homicide casualties. Retaliation, gang activity, and personal conflicts motivated 43 percent of these incidents, with firearms used in 64 cases.

    Property crimes similarly exhibited substantial improvement. Armed robberies plummeted by 39 percent (265 to 162 cases), while non-armed robberies decreased by 22 percent (59 to 46 cases). Residential break-ins nearly halved, dropping from 331 to 170 incidents, and commercial burglaries declined by 13 percent to 273 cases. Although vehicle thefts saw a slight 2 percent increase to 398 cases, law enforcement recovered 59 percent of stolen vehicles.

    Law enforcement achievements included the seizure of 366 illegal firearms and over 11,200 rounds of ammunition, resulting in 828 arrests and 292 criminal charges. Advanced ShotSpotter technology documented 970 gunshot incidents throughout the year. Collaborative operations with Customs and Immigration authorities yielded an additional 37 firearms and more than 5,400 ammunition rounds.

    Commissioner Knowles attributed these remarkable improvements to strategic initiatives including intelligence-led policing methodologies, enhanced officer visibility, targeted operational deployments, and strengthened community partnerships. The 2026 Policing Plan will build upon these successes with continued focus on disrupting firearms and drug trafficking networks, further reducing property crimes, and intensifying youth and community engagement programs.

    “The progress achieved in 2025 conclusively demonstrates that strategic, intelligence-led policing produces measurable results,” Commissioner Knowles stated. “Through unified effort and continued collaboration, we will further advance toward a safer and more secure Bahamas.”