Carib Scope

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  • Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s agricultural sector has entered a new era of institutional collaboration with the inauguration of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture’s (IICA) shared office space with the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM). The ceremony, attended by senior government officials and regional representatives, marks a significant advancement in Caribbean agricultural cooperation.

    Minister of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry Honorable Lennox Andrews emphasized the strategic importance of physical presence for international partners during his address. “When our partners are here, accessible and integrated, collaboration becomes easier, coordination improves, and implementation is accelerated,” Andrews stated. The minister explicitly rejected viewing international organizations as external actors, instead characterizing them as “integral partners in achieving our national agricultural objectives.”

    The minister articulated a vision of regional self-reliance, noting that while international partnerships remain valuable, Caribbean nations must increasingly “look within – to our own institutions, our own technical capacity, and our own regional networks – to craft solutions that are suited to our realities.” This approach comes at a time when geopolitical pressures make regional strategies increasingly necessary.

    Three concrete projects demonstrate the practical implementation of this partnership:

    The Water Resource Management and Improved Irrigation initiative, developed with Global Water Partnership-Caribbean, will provide water access to 25 farmers managing 75 acres in La Poterie through dam construction and four miles of pipeline infrastructure.

    A Seamoss Drying Facility and Packaging House in La Calome, primarily funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization, will establish three drying structures and include grinding equipment for powdered seamoss production.

    A planned Memorandum of Understanding between IICA Grenada, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Rural Development Unit aims to strengthen organizational and technical capabilities within the apiculture sector through the Grenada Association of Beekeepers.

    Gregg Rawlins, IICA’s Eastern Caribbean States representative, characterized the office opening as “a new chapter in the story of IICA in Grenada” that builds upon 45 years of service to the agricultural sector. The organization’s technical cooperation has consistently focused on enhancing agricultural resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability through strategic institutional partnerships.

    Technical Specialist Gregory Delsol detailed IICA’s comprehensive approach, encompassing capacity building, value chain strengthening, and initiatives in agricultural health and food safety. These include African Swine Fever preparedness programs, EU-funded SPS projects, support for MSME trade readiness, territorial development programs, family farming initiatives, and research in white potato cultivation.

    The new facility at #594 Concordia House, Archibald Avenue, St. George’s also serves as PISLM headquarters, reinforcing institutional commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the Caribbean region.

    Dr. Ronen Francis, PISLM Executive Director, framed the inauguration as representing “institutional maturity, political confidence and a decisive step forward for Caribbean cooperation on land, soil and climate resilience,” signaling a transformative moment in regional agricultural development.

  • Nexa: Call for nominations

    Nexa: Call for nominations

    Nexa Credit Union has officially initiated its nomination process for three key governance bodies, inviting committed members to participate in shaping the institution’s future leadership. The financial cooperative is seeking candidates for election to its Board of Directors, Credit Committee, and Supervisory Committee, with a submission deadline set for March 26, 2026.

    The Board of Directors position offers members the opportunity to influence strategic direction and governance policies, while the Credit Committee plays a crucial role in lending decisions and credit risk management. The Supervisory Committee serves as the internal watchdog, ensuring regulatory compliance and financial integrity across the organization’s operations.

    Prospective candidates must complete the official Nexa Credit Union Limited Self-Nominating Form, available through the institution’s administrative channels. This extended nomination timeline provides ample opportunity for members to consider their qualifications and prepare comprehensive applications.

    The nomination drive reflects Nexa Credit Union’s commitment to member-driven governance and democratic principles inherent in the credit union movement. These volunteer positions enable members to contribute directly to the financial cooperative’s stewardship while gaining valuable governance experience.

    NOW Grenada, while publishing this announcement, has clarified that it bears no responsibility for contributor opinions or statements presented in relation to this nomination process. The media outlet has established reporting mechanisms for addressing content concerns.

  • Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    In a significant judicial ruling, the Guyana Court of Appeal has unequivocally dismissed allegations of political bias against Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond regarding her authorization of extradition proceedings against political figures Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar “Shell” Mohamed. The unanimous decision, delivered by Chancellor of the Judiciary Roxane George-Wiltshire on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, found the case “has absolutely no merit” and upheld the minister’s compliance with statutory requirements under the Fugitive Offenders Act.

    The court determined that Minister Walrond merely executed an administrative function in accordance with legal provisions when issuing the Authority To Proceed (ATP) on October 30, 2025. Chancellor George-Wiltshire emphasized that the appellants failed to substantiate claims that the process was tainted by political prejudice, stating that “bias does not arise” in circumstances where the minister fulfills statutory obligations without discretion between competing parties.

    The ruling also addressed and rejected the application for a stay of extradition committal proceedings pending appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice, suggesting that matter should be directed to the regional judicial body. Furthermore, the court clarified that the ultimate decision regarding extradition rests with the judicial system—specifically the magistrate and potentially the Court of Appeal—rather than the minister.

    The appellate court additionally dismissed arguments concerning potential delegation of ministerial authority, noting that any cabinet minister would similarly operate within the same governmental framework. The court awarded substantial costs of GY$1.5 million each to the Minister of Home Affairs and the Attorney General, reinforcing the lack of merit in the appellants’ claims.

    The case originated from committal proceedings currently before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, who issued arrest warrants for the Mohameds on October 31, 2025. The appellants had contended that political statements made during the 2025 election campaign by President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Minister Walrond demonstrated institutional bias against them, particularly as Azruddin Mohamed leads the opposing We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party.

  • CCJ President Proposes International Climate Injuries Compensation Fund

    CCJ President Proposes International Climate Injuries Compensation Fund

    In a significant development for climate justice, Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson has formally proposed the creation of an International Climate Injuries Compensation (ICIC) Fund during his address at the Inter-American Seminar on Climate Emergency and Human Rights in Brasilia on March 16, 2026. The landmark proposal calls for mandatory financial contributions from major corporate polluters to provide crucial compensation for devastating weather-related damages experienced by vulnerable nations.

    The seminar, jointly hosted by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and Brazil’s Supreme Court, served as a platform to discuss the implications of the Court’s recent Advisory Opinion on climate emergency. While acknowledging this legal framework establishes government obligations to regulate climate-harming corporations, Justice Anderson emphasized that practical mechanisms remain insufficient for addressing urgent recovery needs following catastrophic events like Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.

    Justice Anderson expressed particular disappointment with the existing Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) established under the Paris Agreement, noting its inadequate capitalization and limited compensation capabilities. He highlighted the stark disparity between Jamaica’s eligible compensation of approximately $20 million versus the actual damages of $6-7 billion from recent climate disasters.

    The proposed ICIC Fund would operate under a ‘Polluter Pays’ principle, requiring multinational corporations exceeding specific greenhouse emission thresholds to contribute mandatorily through their operating states. Modeled after the International Maritime Organisation’s successful compensation framework for oil pollution, the fund would possess legal personality enabling affected parties to pursue claims directly in countries where climate disasters cause significant harm.

    Justice Anderson first introduced this innovative concept during his keynote address at the CANARI Partners Forum in Barbados this January. The Caribbean Court of Justice, inaugurated in 2005 and currently presided over by Justice Anderson, serves as both a regional trade court and final appellate jurisdiction for several Caribbean nations, representing a profound expression of regional independence and judicial maturity.

  • Family Fun Ride to Promote Down Syndrome Awareness Set for Sunday

    Family Fun Ride to Promote Down Syndrome Awareness Set for Sunday

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has announced its forthcoming World Down Syndrome Awareness Family Fun Ride, set to take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026. This community-focused initiative is designed to foster public awareness and promote inclusive participation for all residents.

    In a strategic partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Cycling Federation and the advocacy group Good Humans 268 Inc., the event aims to merge health consciousness with community solidarity. The organizers have emphasized that the activity is entirely free and welcomes individuals across all age groups and physical capabilities.

    To guarantee universal access, the event will feature a stationary bicycle on-site, accommodating those unable to participate in the traditional ride. Special prize categories will further incentivize involvement and celebrate participant effort.

    The ride will commence at 8:00 a.m. along LIAT Road in Coolidge, St. George’s. Organizers are encouraging attendees to bring friends and family, highlighting the event’s dual mission: raising visibility for people with Down syndrome and strengthening community bonds through shared public engagement.

  • New Jersey firefighters train with Grenada to strengthen emergency response

    New Jersey firefighters train with Grenada to strengthen emergency response

    A collaborative firefighting initiative between New Jersey emergency responders and Grenadian authorities has yielded significant improvements in the Caribbean nation’s disaster preparedness. For the past week, seasoned firefighters from the American state conducted intensive hands-on training sessions with members of the Royal Grenada Police Force Fire Department, exchanging critical lifesaving methodologies and enhancing joint emergency response protocols.

    This bilateral cooperation program, established in 2018 as an annual undertaking, has evolved into a cornerstone of Grenada’s emergency management framework. The partnership extends beyond knowledge sharing to include substantial material support, with previous donations comprising essential firefighting apparatus and a fully operational fire engine. These resources have substantially augmented Grenada’s capacity to combat blazes affecting key national infrastructure, including St. George’s University and Maurice Bishop International Airport.

    Superintendent Kenneth Gill, commanding officer of the RGPF Fire Department, emphasized the program’s transformative impact: ‘The immense value of continuous training and skill acquisition cannot be overstated. Our personnel who receive this advanced instruction now possess the capability to disseminate these techniques throughout our organization, creating a multiplier effect that enhances our overall operational readiness.’

    Retired Newark Deputy Chief Mike Nasta, a participating instructor, commended Grenadian firefighters’ professional attributes: ‘The collaboration with Grenadian crews has been exceptionally productive. They demonstrate remarkable aptitude, enthusiasm, and dedication to their craft. It’s been a privilege to contribute to their ongoing professional development.’

    The initiative, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Grenada, represents a growing transnational relationship between emergency services that continues to strengthen annually. All participants have expressed commitment to maintaining this vital partnership, which directly supports frontline responders protecting communities and critical assets across Grenada.

  • “The Bricks That Started This Building Were Laid by Women”

    “The Bricks That Started This Building Were Laid by Women”

    BELIZE CITY – The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Belize commemorated seven decades of transformative community service with special celebrations this week, highlighting its enduring legacy as a cornerstone of social development.

    The organization marked this significant milestone by hosting an open day at its Belize City headquarters, inviting citizens to explore its extensive programming and profound societal impact. The event featured health screenings and opportunities to engage with public health officials, demonstrating YWCA’s ongoing commitment to holistic community wellness.

    Bernadette Ellis, Vice President of YWCA Belize, reflected on the organization’s foundational principles during the anniversary events. ‘The bricks that started this building were laid by women,’ Ellis stated, emphasizing the pioneering role of female leadership in establishing the institution’s legacy. ‘We maintain immense pride in our current position and the continuous impact we generate across generations.’

    The commemorative activities commenced with a special worship service at Wesley Church on Sunday, followed by Monday’s open house event. Ellis further clarified the organization’s inclusive philosophy, noting membership extends to all community members seeking to contribute, particularly welcoming high school and sixth form students eager to engage in community service.

    Since its establishment in 1956, YWCA Belize has served as a critical force in national development, providing educational programs, advocacy initiatives, and support services that have empowered countless Belizean women and families to build more prosperous futures. The organization continues to adapt its services to address contemporary challenges while honoring its seven-decade tradition of community empowerment.

  • Browne Calls for Unity and Reflection After By-Election Defeat

    Browne Calls for Unity and Reflection After By-Election Defeat

    Following a significant by-election defeat, prominent political figure Alex Browne has issued a comprehensive statement reframing the loss as a moment for organizational reflection and renewed commitment. Delivering his remarks with notable resilience, Browne emphasized that his party’s foundational spirit remains unbroken despite the electoral outcome.

    Browne characterized the campaign as merely one chapter within a broader struggle for equitable governance, stating that the political journey transcends any single electoral contest. He articulated a vision centered on securing fairness, expanded opportunities, and substantive change for all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, asserting that these efforts would persist beyond the recent defeat.

    The politician extended profound gratitude to the network of supporters, campaign volunteers, and voters who demonstrated commitment throughout the contest. Browne highlighted that their collective energy and unwavering belief in the movement’s principles demonstrated the powerful outcomes achievable through unity, noting that this foundational support structure remains intact.

    In a strategic pivot, Browne declared the moment would serve as an opportunity for recalibration rather than retreat. He framed the defeat as a reflective period during which the party would engage in active listening, implement organizational learning, and emerge strengthened as a cohesive political family dedicated to public service.

    Concluding with forward-looking determination, Browne affirmed the uninterrupted continuation of the party’s work through persistent engagement, continuous development, and unwavering advocacy for national improvement. He reinforced the message that the political movement maintains its vitality and characterized the current moment as merely the preliminary phase of a prolonged transformation effort.

  • 2026 National Carnival Queen delegates revealed

    2026 National Carnival Queen delegates revealed

    Saint Lucia’s cultural calendar has officially commenced its countdown with the unveiling of nine distinguished contestants selected for the 72nd National Carnival Queen Pageant. The Carnival Planning and Management Committee, in collaboration with the National Carnival Queen Pageant Committee, revealed the finalists following rigorous auditions held at the National Cultural Centre on March 8.

    The selected delegates represent diverse communities across the island: Eudoxia Poleon (Desruisseaux, Micoud), Sydney James (Ciceron, Castries), Faith Edward (Ciceron, Castries), Nyaley Lewis (Dennery), Shernette Rameau (Aux Leon, Mabouya Valley), Darlene Francis (La Clery, Castries), Adel Montoute (Gros Islet), Derrelle DuBois (Grand Riviere, Gros Islet), and Simone Sonson (Gros Islet).

    These contestants will embark on an extensive preparatory journey featuring numerous ceremonial engagements, commencing with the traditional sashing ceremony where they will formally meet their sponsors. The pageant’s grand finale is scheduled for July 4 at the Pavilion in Rodney Bay, serving as a centerpiece event within the broader Lucian Carnival celebrations.

    The competition will see these nine women vying to succeed the reigning titleholder, Emerle Tisson, who was crowned under the banner of Miss Bank of Saint Lucia. This event continues its seven-decade tradition of celebrating Saint Lucian culture, feminine excellence, and community representation through its prestigious platform.

  • UPDATE: Anselm Wendell Florent in custody

    UPDATE: Anselm Wendell Florent in custody

    Dominican law enforcement authorities have confirmed the apprehension of Anselm Wendell Florent, who voluntarily turned himself in to police custody earlier today. The individual, identified as a current resident of Roseau with origins in the Castle Bruce area, is presently under investigation for alleged involvement in a significant criminal incident.

    According to official police sources, the suspect surrendered voluntarily to authorities, though specific details regarding the nature of the serious offense remain undisclosed to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation. The criminal activity in question is reported to have occurred within the capital city’s jurisdiction, prompting an intensive investigative response from local law enforcement agencies.

    The detention follows standard procedural protocols for persons of interest in major criminal cases, with judicial authorities expected to review the circumstances surrounding the case imminently. Legal representatives for the detained individual have not yet made public statements regarding the allegations or the surrender process.

    Community response in both Roseau and Castle Bruce remains measured as residents await further official information about the developing situation and the specific charges potentially facing the individual in custody.