Carib Scope

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  • Leo Club of St George’s celebrates 56 years of service

    Leo Club of St George’s celebrates 56 years of service

    The Leo Club of St. George’s marks a historic milestone this year, celebrating 56 years of continuous community service and youth development under the theme “56 Years of Service, Honouring the Past, Serving the Future.” As one of the Eastern Caribbean’s most enduring Leo Clubs, this Grenada-based organization has established itself as a cornerstone of social development through generations of leadership training and community outreach.

    Club President Leo Danika Baptiste (2025-2026) expressed both honor and responsibility in leading during this anniversary year. “Serving as President during our 56th year is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold with great pride,” Baptiste stated. “As we honour the past and serve the future, I am grateful for the leaders who paved the way and inspired by the members who continue to strengthen our impact.”

    The anniversary celebration encompasses two months of diverse activities demonstrating the club’s multifaceted approach to service. These initiatives include religious observance through an Annual Church Service at St. George’s Baptist Church, where members joined with their parent organization, the St. George’s Lions Club, in thanksgiving for 56 years of fellowship.

    Substantive service projects form the core of the celebration. Members conducted youth outreach at Queen Elizabeth Home for Children, engaging residents through recreational activities, hair braiding sessions, and motivational character-building talks. The Brighter Futures School Support Initiative, developed in partnership with Grenadian Published Authors Inc., brought reading engagement and school supply donations to kindergarten and first-grade students at St. George’s Methodist School.

    Future environmental initiatives include Project Beach Clean across St. George parish scheduled for March, aligning with Lions International’s global environmental protection cause, and Pawsitive Impact, a collaboration with the Grenada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) to support sheltered animals.

    The anniversary program also emphasizes member development through capacity-building workshops. A Virtual Communications Workshop on February 11th featured training facilitator and communications strategist Roslyn Douglas, while a February 21st Project Management workshop was conducted by specialist Johnny Calliste.

    Social cohesion receives attention through the Colours Picnic Social on February 28th, where members will gather wearing designated colors and sharing corresponding snacks, fostering unity and camaraderie within the organization.

    Throughout its history, the Leo Club of St. George’s has implemented significant initiatives including Back-to-School Supplies Drives, Annual World Cleanup Day coastal cleanups, Christmas food hamper distributions for vulnerable families, youth leadership workshops, drug prevention programs, and the beautification of the Sendall Tunnel.

    The club’s legacy includes nurturing generations of young leaders who have emerged as prominent figures in Grenada’s business and community sectors. As the organization celebrates this milestone, it reaffirms its commitment to addressing evolving community needs while maintaining the spirit of service that has defined its 56-year history.

  • Hope calls for peak performance against India

    Hope calls for peak performance against India

    West Indies captain Shai Hope has issued a stark assessment of his team’s performance following a decisive nine-wicket defeat to South Africa, emphasizing that flawless execution is now imperative for their must-win encounter against defending champions India this Sunday. The loss at Kensington Oval significantly complicates the Caribbean side’s pathway to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semifinals.

    The mathematical reality became clear following India’s 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in the subsequent match, confirming South Africa’s advancement to the final four. This sets up a virtual quarterfinal showdown in Kolkata, where the winner between West Indies and India will claim the remaining semifinal berth from the group.

    Reflecting on the team’s collapse to 83-7 before a partial recovery to 176-8, Hope acknowledged critical shortcomings in their gameplay. “It always boils down to execution,” the captain stated during his post-match press conference. “We failed to adapt and assess conditions with sufficient speed, which left us playing catch-up throughout the match. Given the quality of the batting surface, I believe we fell 40-60 runs short of a competitive total.”

    Despite the disappointing performance, Hope defended his team’s aggressive approach, noting that the strategy itself wasn’t flawed but rather the implementation. He praised the lower order’s effort in reaching 170-plus from a precarious position, suggesting the top order’s dismissal while pursuing big shots was understandable on such a favorable pitch.

    The captain framed the upcoming challenge as precisely what tournament cricket demands. “This is how it’s supposed to be at the Super Eight stage,” Hope remarked. “Every game presents a serious challenge because these are the best teams competing. We must now produce our best cricket when it matters most and ensure we turn things around quickly against a formidable Indian side.”

  • IICA Grenada Delegation commissions new office in St George’s

    IICA Grenada Delegation commissions new office in St George’s

    The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) celebrated the official commissioning of its new Grenada headquarters on February 25, 2026, signaling a strengthened commitment to regional agricultural development. The ceremony at 594 Concordia House in St. George’s gathered high-ranking officials from Grenada’s Ministries of Agriculture and Climate Resilience, alongside representatives from partner organizations and agricultural stakeholders.

    Gregg Rawlins, IICA Representative for the Eastern Caribbean States, emphasized the symbolic significance of the relocation, characterizing it as the beginning of a new chapter built upon four decades of collaboration with the Grenadian government. “This marks more than just a change of address,” Rawlins stated. “It represents our renewed dedication to advancing technical cooperation, innovation, and sustainable agricultural growth as we celebrate 45 years of service to Grenada’s agricultural sector.”

    Technical Specialist Gregory Delsol detailed the practical applications of IICA’s work, highlighting ongoing initiatives in agricultural health, food safety, and value chain strengthening. Key programs include African Swine Fever preparedness, EU-funded SPS projects, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises to enhance trade readiness. Additional efforts focus on territorial development through sea moss processing, irrigation upgrades, white potato research, and apiculture development—all aimed at boosting climate resilience and food security.

    The facility will also serve as headquarters for the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), enhancing collaborative efforts toward environmental sustainability. Dr. Ronen Francis, Executive Director of PISLM, described the opening as evidence of “institutional maturity and political confidence” that signifies “a decisive step forward for Caribbean cooperation on land, soil and climate resilience.”

    Grenada’s Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Lennox Andrews, commended IICA’s longstanding contributions and emphasized the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for partner organizations. “Physical presence matters,” Minister Andrews asserted. “When our partners are here, accessible and integrated, collaboration becomes easier, coordination improves, and implementation accelerates. We see them as integral partners in achieving our national agricultural objectives.”

  • Small Craft Advisory Issued for Antigua, Barbuda and Northern Leeward Islands

    Small Craft Advisory Issued for Antigua, Barbuda and Northern Leeward Islands

    Multiple Eastern Caribbean territories are currently under official small craft advisories as intensified easterly winds create dangerous maritime conditions throughout the region. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued warnings for Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands, with varying effective timeframes through Friday.

    Meteorological authorities report that moderate to fresh easterly winds reaching 28-37 kilometers per hour (15-20 knots) are generating hazardous sea conditions, particularly along Atlantic-facing coastlines. Wind gusts have been recorded up to 57 km/h (31 knots), creating significant wave activity with seas reaching 2.1-3.1 meters (7-10 feet) and occasionally peaking near 3.7 meters (12 feet). Wave periods are measured between six to nine seconds, creating particularly challenging conditions for maritime operations.

    According to Forecaster Letitia Humphreys, the combination of wind waves and swells presents substantial risks to marine traffic. The advisory specifically applies to waters extending approximately 20 nautical miles offshore from the eastern sides of the affected islands.

    Maritime officials have emphasized the serious safety implications, noting that current conditions could potentially lead to vessel capsizing, significant damage to small crafts, and even loss of life. The meteorological service warns that both fisheries and marine transportation sectors may experience operational disruptions, possibly resulting in economic impacts for the region.

    Authorities are strongly advising inexperienced mariners and small vessel operators to avoid navigation in affected areas until conditions improve. The public is urged to monitor ongoing developments through official meteorological service channels and local media outlets for updates on the evolving situation.

  • St Martin’s Primary School admin and students commemorate deceased staff member

    St Martin’s Primary School admin and students commemorate deceased staff member

    The St. Martin Primary School community is enveloped in grief following the recent demise of Jacqueline Jackson, who served as the institution’s Hygiene Warden with exceptional devotion. School authorities confirmed her passing, highlighting her significant contributions to maintaining impeccable health standards across the campus.

    Jackson was renowned for her steadfast commitment to ensuring a sanitized and secure learning atmosphere for both pupils and educators. Her approach to duties blended meticulous attention with a genuine concern for community welfare, earning her widespread respect.

    In an official tribute, school representatives characterized Jackson as a pillar of quiet strength who executed her responsibilities with notable care and dignity. “Her absence creates a profound void within our educational family,” the statement conveyed.

    The school’s administration has extended profound sympathies to Jackson’s relatives and acquaintances during this period of bereavement. The collective is offering spiritual support and encouraging remembrance of the positive legacy she instilled through her service.

    Concluding their memorial message, the institution expressed hope for Jackson’s eternal peace: “May her soul find perpetual rest,” reflecting the deep sentiment shared by all associated with St. Martin Primary School.

  • STATEMENT: National Beekeepers Cooperative Society condemns sale of adulterated honey

    STATEMENT: National Beekeepers Cooperative Society condemns sale of adulterated honey

    The National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. has issued a formal response to a viral social media graphic raising concerns about adulterated honey products in the Dominican market. The cooperative organization released a strong statement condemning all aspects of honey adulteration—from production and distribution to retail sales—reaffirming its unwavering commitment to preserving honey’s status as a pure, natural product.

    The Cooperative confirmed it has received and formally documented specific concerns regarding certain honey brands currently available to consumers. In response to these allegations, the organization has initiated active engagement with relevant regulatory bodies to ensure all honey products comply with established quality and safety protocols.

    Emphasizing its core priorities, the Cooperative highlighted three fundamental commitments: ensuring consumer safety, protecting legitimate beekeepers who maintain authentic production methods, and safeguarding the reputation of the Dominican Honey Brand as a mark of quality and authenticity.

    The statement concluded with a call for enhanced transparency throughout the industry, advocating for rigorous testing procedures and strict adherence to national standards. These measures, the Cooperative asserts, are essential for maintaining public confidence in the honey industry and preserving the integrity of this valued agricultural sector.

  • Cabinet hails Twin I Payne’s repeat Agrifest success in St Croix

    Cabinet hails Twin I Payne’s repeat Agrifest success in St Croix

    The Caribbean agricultural community is celebrating the remarkable achievement of Antiguan farmer Twin I Payne, who has secured the top prize at the prestigious Agrifest in St. Croix for an unprecedented second consecutive year. Representing Twin Stod Enterprise, Payne’s exceptional livestock and crop presentations outshone competitors at the United States Virgin Islands’ premier annual agricultural exhibition, earning him top honors from the judging panel.

    In response to this extraordinary accomplishment, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has extended official congratulations, characterizing the win as a monumental moment of national pride. Government ministers emphasized that Payne’s repeated success demonstrates both the exceptional quality standards and innovative approaches emerging from the nation’s agricultural sector while significantly enhancing its regional reputation.

    The administration has demonstrated its commitment to supporting agricultural excellence by approving financial assistance to cover participation costs associated with the event. This support mechanism represents a strategic component of broader governmental initiatives designed to foster competitiveness and recognize outstanding achievements within the agricultural industry.

    Looking forward, the government has pledged ongoing support for farmers representing Antigua and Barbuda at regional and international competitions. Officials highlighted the dual impact of such accomplishments: inspiring the next generation of agricultural professionals while simultaneously contributing to national food security objectives and building resilience within the domestic food production system.

  • St Lucian is first English-speaking Caribbean native to gain MD from Morocco

    St Lucian is first English-speaking Caribbean native to gain MD from Morocco

    In an unprecedented academic achievement, Dr. Kerrone Courtney Stanislaus has etched his name in the annals of Caribbean educational history by becoming the first English-speaking Caribbean national to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree from Morocco’s prestigious Mohammed V University in Rabat. The historic graduation ceremony took place on February 13, 2026, marking the culmination of years of rigorous medical training and research.

    The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission confirmed that Dr. Stanislaus represents multiple firsts: the inaugural medical graduate from Saint Lucia, the pioneering citizen from the Eastern Caribbean region, and the first English-speaking Caribbean student to achieve this distinguished qualification from the North African kingdom.

    Dr. Stanislaus’s doctoral research broke new ground in oncology support care with his thesis titled “The Impact of Physical Exercise Therapy on Cancer Patients: Clinicians’ Perspective.” His innovative work exploring how structured physical activity interventions can improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients earned him the university’s prestigious thesis graduation award.

    This milestone achievement symbolizes the strengthening educational partnership between Morocco and Caribbean nations. Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Stanislaus expressed profound gratitude to the Moroccan government for their hospitality and educational support system. “My heartfelt appreciation goes to the Kingdom of Morocco for its generosity and for offering an enriching educational environment that made this achievement possible,” he stated.

    The personal dimension of his success was equally poignant. Dr. Stanislaus dedicated his accomplishment to his late mother, who had passionately supported his medical aspirations but passed away at the beginning of his academic journey. “I want to dedicate this moment to my mother, who invested everything in me becoming a doctor, but she just wasn’t here to see it happen,” he shared emotionally.

    This pioneering achievement underscores Morocco’s expanding educational outreach to the Caribbean region. Annually, the North African nation offers up to 20 fully-funded scholarships to each OECS member state for undergraduate and master’s level studies. Currently, over 100 students from Eastern Caribbean nations are pursuing various disciplines in Moroccan institutions, including approximately 32 in medical and pharmaceutical fields.

    The application window for these scholarships runs from May to July each year, providing valuable opportunities for students from Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to access world-class education through this bilateral educational partnership.

  • Small craft, high surf advisory remains in effect for Barbados

    Small craft, high surf advisory remains in effect for Barbados

    Barbados remains under an extended marine hazard alert as meteorologists warn of persistently dangerous ocean conditions continuing through the coming week. The Barbados Meteorological Service (BMS) has maintained both small craft and high surf advisories due to threatening marine patterns developing from a significant low-pressure system in the central Atlantic.

    Ocean swells measuring between 2.0 to 3.0 metres (8-10 feet) are creating hazardous conditions for maritime activities and coastal areas. These powerful northerly swells present substantial risks to smaller vessels and beachfront infrastructure. The meteorological agency emphasized the increased potential for loss of life, injuries, and property damage along the island’s coastline.

    According to the BMS release, the turbulent conditions are expected to persist due to a developing Atlantic high-pressure system that will maintain strong surface winds and continued sea agitation. Beach erosion has been reported across numerous coastal areas, with many beaches completely submerged, particularly along cliff bases and during high tide cycles.

    The advisory specifically cautions small craft operators about the operational challenges posed by large open-water swells, while warning beachgoers of dangerous breaking waves. Authorities recommend using only beaches with active lifeguard supervision and securing all loose coastal property.

    The meteorological service will reassess the situation on Saturday, February 28th at 6:00 a.m., or earlier if marine conditions significantly change. The current alert criteria involve sustained winds of 20-25 knots, sea swells of 2.5-3.0 metres, and/or reduced visibility forecasts within 36-hour periods.

  • Antigua and Barbuda to debate immigration amnesty bill within weeks

    Antigua and Barbuda to debate immigration amnesty bill within weeks

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is poised to implement a groundbreaking immigration amnesty initiative following parliamentary approval of legislative amendments. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration has confirmed that Parliament will convene within the forthcoming fortnight to deliberate on substantial revisions to the Immigration and Passport Act of 2014.

    Cabinet members will initially examine the proposed legal modifications before presenting them to the legislative body. This strategic overhaul aims to establish a robust juridical foundation for normalizing the status of specific undocumented immigrants who have maintained prolonged residence in the country. The program specifically targets individuals who entered through legal channels but have resided without regularized status for a minimum of four years.

    The regularization window will remain open for ninety days, spanning from April 1 to June 30, 2026, during which qualifying persons may submit applications. Additionally, the legislation incorporates provisions addressing those who marginally missed citizenship eligibility due to brief interruptions in lawful residency.

    Government spokespersons emphasize that the amnesty constitutes a meticulously regulated process rather than an indiscriminate pardon. Explicit exclusions apply to individuals deemed threats to national security or public safety, applicants furnishing fraudulent information, and those under active deportation orders or international arrest warrants.

    The administration characterizes this measure as a structured endeavor to enhance compliance with immigration statutes while reinforcing national security protocols. Officials project that upon legislative endorsement, the regularization process will commence promptly, potentially affecting thousands of long-term residents seeking legal conformity.