Carib Scope

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  • No immediate threat to life following Pichlen landslide, says Minister Blackmore

    No immediate threat to life following Pichlen landslide, says Minister Blackmore

    Dominica’s Public Works Minister Rayburn Blackmore has provided reassurances to citizens following a significant landslide in the southern community of Pichlen that occurred during the night of January 24-25. The geological event, which took place along an active road rehabilitation corridor, resulted in substantial earth displacement into the Pichlen River channel, triggering immediate multi-agency emergency assessments.

    Minister Blackmore confirmed to media outlets that a comprehensive technical team comprising geotechnical engineers, disaster management specialists, emergency services personnel, and forestry officials has conducted thorough evaluations of the situation. Their collective assessment indicates no imminent danger to residential areas or infrastructure downstream from the landslide site.

    Critical transportation routes between Bellevue Chopin and Pichelin remain fully operational, maintaining uninterrupted connectivity for local communities. As a precautionary measure, authorities have established security perimeters around the original construction zone, advising public avoidance of the designated area.

    Remediation operations commenced Monday under improved meteorological conditions, with clearing efforts focused on preserving the integrity of the river channel while implementing robust mitigation protocols. The government’s coordinated response prioritizes environmental conservation and community safety through strict adherence to geotechnical safety standards.

    Minister Blackmore contextualized this incident within Dominica’s broader National Resilience Development Plan 2030, highlighting ongoing infrastructure investments exceeding $160 million dedicated to slope stabilization, advanced drainage systems, and expanded roadway designs specifically engineered to minimize landslide risks. The official commended emergency responders and technical staff for their continuous monitoring efforts and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to citizen safety as its fundamental governance priority.

  • SLBMC Nurse Philis Humphreys Earns Master’s Degree in Nursing Leadership

    SLBMC Nurse Philis Humphreys Earns Master’s Degree in Nursing Leadership

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) celebrates a groundbreaking academic achievement as one of its dedicated nursing professionals attains an advanced degree in healthcare leadership. Philis Humphreys, serving as an Infection, Disease and Environmental Health (IDEH) specialist nurse, has successfully completed her Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Executive from the prestigious Walden University.

    This educational accomplishment represents a transformative moment for both the individual practitioner and the medical institution’s nursing corps. Hospital administration formally recognized Humphreys’ scholarly dedication, emphasizing how her pursuit of advanced knowledge demonstrates exceptional commitment to professional development within Antigua’s healthcare landscape.

    The medical center’s leadership team characterized this achievement as particularly inspirational for fellow healthcare workers, noting that Humphreys’ academic journey exemplifies the potential for career advancement through persistent effort and intellectual curiosity. The qualification specifically prepares nursing professionals for executive-level responsibilities, potentially influencing future healthcare policy and clinical management approaches.

    SLBMC officials expressed confidence in Humphreys’ emerging leadership capabilities, suggesting her advanced training would contribute significantly to the institution’s operational excellence and patient care standards. The hospital community views this milestone as reinforcing the critical importance of continuous education in elevating healthcare quality and organizational performance across the Caribbean region.

  • Breaking barriers: Deaf Saint Lucians donate blood for the first time

    Breaking barriers: Deaf Saint Lucians donate blood for the first time

    In a groundbreaking move toward inclusivity, Saint Lucia’s deaf and hearing-impaired community participated in a pioneering blood donation drive on January 24th. The event, held at the Lady Gordon Opportunity Centre in Ciceron—a venue with deep historical significance as the former School for the Deaf—marked the first organized effort specifically designed to accommodate donors with hearing disabilities.

    The initiative emerged from a critical recognition: communication barriers routinely exclude deaf individuals from essential services and civic activities, including blood donation. Standard medical protocols requiring detailed questionnaires and interviews present insurmountable challenges in a society where sign language proficiency remains limited among healthcare professionals.

    Dale St. Juste, Officer in Charge of Special Education at Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Education and leader of the Castries SDA Church’s Deaf Ministries Department, championed this transformative project. The Deaf Ministries program, which provides weekly religious services incorporating both spiritual guidance and practical information often inaccessible to the hearing-impaired community, served as the perfect platform for this outreach.

    St. Juste revealed to St. Lucia Times that most participants had never previously donated blood and were unaware of their blood types. ‘Blood donation constitutes a critical national service vital to our healthcare system,’ he emphasized. ‘With blood stocks frequently reaching dangerously low levels, maximizing participation becomes imperative.’

    Beyond addressing immediate medical needs, the initiative represents a broader movement toward societal inclusion. St. Juste advocates for systemic changes across institutions, urging them to evaluate and adapt their processes to accommodate persons with disabilities. He additionally encourages public engagement with deaf individuals, noting that communication often proves possible even without formal sign language training.

    The successful blood drive demonstrates how targeted efforts can dismantle barriers, offering a model for future inclusive initiatives that empower differently-abled citizens to participate fully in societal activities.

  • Oproep om informatie over overleden Lucia Mildred Harris in Amsterdam

    Oproep om informatie over overleden Lucia Mildred Harris in Amsterdam

    Amsterdam authorities are making a public appeal for information about Lucia Mildred Harris, a Suriname-born woman who will receive a solitary funeral after being discovered deceased in her Amsterdam-Zuid apartment with no known surviving relatives or social connections.

    The 66-year-old woman was found lifeless in her Cornelis Trooststraat residence on January 7th after a concerned neighbor, who hadn’t seen her for approximately a month, alerted police. Forensic investigation confirmed Harris died of natural causes, ruling out any criminal involvement.

    Despite extensive efforts by Amsterdam municipal authorities to locate next of kin, friends, or acquaintances, no personal connections have been identified. This has prompted the Foundation for Solitary Funerals Amsterdam (Stichting De Eenzame Uitvaart Amsterdam) to organize a dignified burial service for Harris, ensuring she receives proper funeral rites despite her apparent isolation.

    The upcoming ceremony will feature poet Antoine de Kom reciting a poem specially composed in Harris’s honor. The foundation will also document the proceedings for archival purposes.

    Limited biographical information exists about Harris’s life. While it remains unclear when she emigrated from Suriname to the Netherlands, records indicate she attended the Charles Montaigne Fashion Academy in Amsterdam in 1980 before studying French at the University of Amsterdam. Her post-graduate professional life and potential career sector remain unknown.

    The foundation expressed particular surprise that an educated and well-groomed woman would apparently lack any visible social network. They are now issuing an explicit appeal to readers in Suriname and the Surinamese community in the Netherlands who might have known Harris or possess information about her family background and life story.

    The funeral is scheduled for this Friday in Amsterdam. Those with relevant information or potential family connections who wish to attend the service are encouraged to contact the Foundation for Solitary Funerals Amsterdam directly.

  • COMMENTARY: Years when our Carnival days fall in two different months

    COMMENTARY: Years when our Carnival days fall in two different months

    The rhythmic pulse of Dominica’s Carnival celebrations follows a complex chronological pattern that few revelers fully comprehend. Historical research reveals that the island’s pre-Lenten festivities, traditionally known as ‘Lendi Mas’ (Carnival Monday) and ‘Madi Mas’ (Carnival Tuesday), adhere to a celestial calendar with fluctuations spanning centuries.

    According to archival records, the earliest possible dates for Dominica’s Carnival occur on February 2 and 3—a phenomenon last witnessed in 1818, during the pre-Emancipation era when Carnival celebrations didn’t officially exist. Astonishingly, this early timing won’t recur until 2285, making it a once-in-millennium occurrence.

    Conversely, the latest possible Carnival dates fall on March 8 and 9, last observed in 1943. The next extended Carnival season will occur in 2038, requiring a 12-year wait for the longest possible celebration period.

    A particularly rare phenomenon occurs when Carnival straddles two months—with Monday in February and Tuesday in March. This occurred most recently in 2022 (had COVID-19 not caused cancellation), following previous instances in 1927, 1938, 1949, and 1960. Analysis reveals an 11-year pattern between these dual-month celebrations, with future occurrences projected for 2033 and 2044—the latter being a Leap Year celebration on February 29 and March 1.

    The timing complexity extends to Easter celebrations, which shift according to lunar cycles. Easter Sunday always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following March 21. The earliest possible Easter date (March 22) last coincided with early Carnival dates in 1818, and won’t realign until 2285.

    Despite these chronological complexities, Dominicans continue celebrating their ‘Mas Domnik’ with equal enthusiasm whether festivities fall in February, March, or across both months—demonstrating that cultural spirit transcends calendar constraints.

  • China–Antigua and Barbuda Training Boosts Plant Tissue Culture to Tackle Seedling Shortages

    China–Antigua and Barbuda Training Boosts Plant Tissue Culture to Tackle Seedling Shortages

    In a significant advancement for Caribbean agricultural science, Antigua and Barbuda has established its first specialized plant tissue culture facility through bilateral cooperation with China. The pioneering laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art technology including laminar flow hoods, high-pressure sterilizers, and constant-temperature incubators, represents a cornerstone of the China-Aided Agricultural Technology Project.

    On January 21, 2026, the China–Antigua and Barbuda Modern Agricultural International Science and Technology Cooperation Base in Bethesda hosted an intensive technical workshop led by Dr. Lu Jiaju, an associate researcher from China’s Guizhou Institute of Subtropical Crops. The session brought together agricultural specialists from Antigua’s Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, specifically the Crop Research and Development Division.

    Dr. Lu conducted comprehensive training covering all aspects of plant tissue cultivation, beginning with laboratory safety protocols and proper attire requirements. Participants received detailed instruction on functional laboratory zoning, equipment operation, and critical procedural stages including reagent preparation, medium formulation, sterilization techniques, and explant disinfection. Using sweet potato cuttings as demonstration material, Dr. Lu performed live demonstrations of sterilization processes involving alcohol immersion and sodium hypochlorite treatment, emphasizing precise timing controls.

    The workshop employed a blended learning approach combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. Trainees participated in group exercises within laminar flow cabinets, practicing cutting and inoculation techniques under expert supervision. Special emphasis was placed on maintaining aseptic conditions throughout all procedures, with detailed guidance on laboratory cleaning protocols and disinfection standards.

    Concurrent training sessions focused on laboratory management and equipment maintenance for the core technical team who will operate the facility once it becomes fully operational. This comprehensive knowledge transfer enables Antigua and Barbuda to develop independent capacity for producing high-quality, disease-free seedlings, addressing long-standing agricultural challenges in the region.

    The establishment of this facility, entirely funded and equipped through Chinese governmental support, marks a transformative step in Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural development journey, potentially serving as a model for other Caribbean nations facing similar agricultural constraints.

  • West Indies U19 Spinners Shine in Crucial Super Six Victory Over Ireland

    West Indies U19 Spinners Shine in Crucial Super Six Victory Over Ireland

    In a display of classic Caribbean tenacity, the West Indies Under-19 cricket team secured a vital 25-run victory over Ireland via the DLS method during a rain-interrupted Super Six clash at the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 in Windhoek, Namibia.

    The match, characterized by dramatic momentum shifts, saw the Caribbean side overcome early batting struggles to post a competitive total of 226 all out in the 47th over. Wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew provided the foundation with a composed 66 from 82 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and an equal number of sixes. His crucial 67-run partnership with Jonathan van Lange (28) stabilized the innings after West Indies found themselves at 67/3 within the first 16 overs.

    Ireland’s chase began promisingly with opener James West leading the effort, reaching 82/2 after 18 overs. However, the match turned decisively when West Indies’ spin duo of Micah McKenzie and Vitel Lawes took control. McKenzie delivered a devastating performance with figures of 4/36 from his 10 overs, dismantling Ireland’s middle order, while Lawes provided excellent support with 2/41.

    When rain interrupted play for the second time with Ireland at 164/7 after 40 overs, still requiring 62 runs from the remaining overs, the DLS method confirmed West Indies’ victory margin. The win keeps the Caribbean side firmly in contention for the semi-finals, currently sitting third in Super Six Group 1 behind Australia and Afghanistan.

    The tournament structure sees teams carrying forward points from previous matches against other Super Six qualifiers. West Indies advanced with points earned from their victory over South Africa and now face Australia in their final Super Six match on January 28 at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

    Cricket West Indies has called upon fans worldwide to support the young squad throughout their World Cup campaign. Broadcast coverage is available through ESPN Caribbean, Disney+ in the Caribbean region, Willow TV in North America, and Sky Sports in the United Kingdom, with global streaming accessible via ICC.tv.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Positioned as Southern Caribbean Cruise Gateway

    Antigua and Barbuda Positioned as Southern Caribbean Cruise Gateway

    Antigua and Barbuda has strategically positioned itself as the premier gateway for Southern Caribbean cruise tourism following the inauguration of its state-of-the-art cruise terminal in St John’s. The transformative development signals a fundamental shift in the nation’s maritime capabilities, transitioning from a mere port of call to a comprehensive homeporting destination.

    Lancelot Arnold, Eastern Caribbean Regional Director at Global Ports Holding, articulated the strategic vision during Saturday’s grand opening ceremony at the newly constructed Antigua Cruise Port facility. The terminal’s advanced infrastructure now enables full turnaround operations, permitting cruise passengers to both commence and conclude their voyages within Antigua and Barbuda—a capability that substantially enhances the nation’s cruise infrastructure and regional significance.

    This development fundamentally redefines Antigua’s role within Caribbean maritime logistics, establishing the nation as a pivotal hub for itineraries extending to Southern Caribbean destinations including St Lucia and neighboring islands. The enhanced connectivity fosters unprecedented regional cooperation while demonstrating how modern port infrastructure can drive economic resilience and sustainable growth.

    The project realization stemmed from an effective public-private partnership between port operators and the Antiguan government. Gasper George, General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port, revealed the terminal was completed in under twelve months, with the broader Upland Development project scheduled for completion by mid-year.

    George emphasized that the inauguration marks a new evolutionary phase for Antigua’s cruise sector, necessitated by increasingly larger vessels and elevated passenger expectations. The economic implications extend far beyond the port itself, generating substantial ripple effects across transportation services, tour operations, retail establishments, culinary venues, hospitality providers, and numerous ancillary industries throughout the dual-island nation.

  • Historic winter storm kills several, causes mass travel disruption across US

    Historic winter storm kills several, causes mass travel disruption across US

    A catastrophic winter storm of historic proportions has unleashed chaos across the United States, resulting in multiple fatalities and bringing the nation’s transportation networks to a standstill. The ferocious system, characterized by arctic blasts, blinding blizzards, and dangerously icy conditions, has impacted a vast swath of the country from the Great Plains through the Midwest and into the Northeast.

    Authorities have confirmed several storm-related deaths, attributed to traffic accidents, exposure to the extreme cold, and other weather-induced emergencies. The severe conditions have triggered a cascade of travel disruptions, with thousands of flights canceled nationwide and major airlines issuing waivers. Key interstate highways have been rendered treacherous or completely impassable, stranding motorists and prompting officials to implore residents to avoid any non-essential travel.

    Critical infrastructure has also been severely tested. Power outages have left tens of thousands of households in the dark and without heat amidst freezing temperatures, while emergency services are operating at maximum capacity responding to a surge in calls. The storm’s timing during a busy holiday travel period has magnified its impact, leaving countless families separated and holiday plans in disarray. Meteorologists are describing the event as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ weather phenomenon, highlighting its rapid intensification and the record-breaking low temperatures it has delivered.

  • Dancehall artiste Lybran opens Jamaican restaurant in Antigua

    Dancehall artiste Lybran opens Jamaican restaurant in Antigua

    In a testament to entrepreneurial resilience, Jamaican dancehall performer Lybran, celebrated under his stage moniker Rum Boss, has inaugurated an authentic Jamaican dining establishment on the island of Antigua. This venture, christened Reggae Village, materializes five years following his relocation to Antigua and Barbuda and is strategically situated in Willikies along the eastern coastline, en route to the renowned Long Bay Beach and Devil’s Bridge landmark.

    Lybran, born Lamon Morvin Cousins in St. Thomas, Jamaica, revealed to the Jamaica Observer that the conception of Reggae Village was forged amidst the adversities of the COVID-19 pandemic. He characterized this epoch as profoundly challenging yet transformative, catalyzed by the birth of his youngest child which instilled a renewed drive to establish a steadfast livelihood for his family. The enterprise was realized through unwavering determination and significant personal sacrifice.

    While the restaurant’s core mission is to cater to Antigua’s expanding Jamaican diaspora, it has remarkably garnered substantial patronage from the local Antiguan community and international tourists alike. The establishment’s reputation has been elevated by visits from distinguished personalities, including athletes from the West Indies cricket and football squads. This acclaim has facilitated a natural expansion into off-site catering services, broadening the business’s scope.

    Concurrently, Lybran continues to nurture his artistic career alongside his culinary pursuits. His recent showcase at the prestigious One Nation Music Festival in Antigua placed him on a lineup with icons such as Capleton, Gramps Morgan, Mr Vegas, and Masicka. A highlight of the event was an impromptu collaborative performance with Gramps Morgan, who extended an invitation for Lybran to join him on stage for a rendition of his track ‘Rum Talk Part 3’. This surprise appearance astonished many attendees who were previously unacquainted with his musical endeavors, resulting in an outpouring of newfound admiration and support from the audience.