Carib Scope

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  • Police appeal for witnesses after deadly shooting

    Police appeal for witnesses after deadly shooting

    Barbados law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into a deadly shooting incident that occurred Sunday morning in close proximity to the Usain Bolt Sports Complex at Paradise Park, formerly known as Lazaretto, in St Michael. The tragic event has prompted police to issue a public appeal for potential witnesses and evidentiary materials that could advance their investigative efforts.

    According to official statements from Police Public Affairs and Communications Officer, acting Inspector Ryan Brathwaite, the Police Operations Control Center received an emergency notification at approximately 11:16 a.m. through a female caller who reported an active shooting situation involving a male victim inside a vehicle adjacent to the sports facility.

    “Law enforcement personnel promptly responded to the scene where they discovered the deceased body of a male individual seated within a vehicle. A medical professional attended the location, conducted a thorough examination of the victim, and formally pronounced death,” Inspector Brathwaite detailed during his public briefing.

    Preliminary investigative findings indicate the victim had driven into the vicinity earlier that morning when an assailant wearing distinctive black attire—a t-shirt and three-quarter pants—approached the vehicle. Multiple gunshots were reportedly heard by witnesses, after which the suspect was observed fleeing the scene on foot.

    The investigation team is particularly interested in contacting individuals who might have been traveling alone along the West Coast road near the Usain Bolt Complex between the critical time window of 10:50 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Additionally, police are urging motorists who may have captured relevant footage via dashboard cameras to provide this potentially crucial evidence to investigators.

    Law enforcement officials have provided multiple contact avenues for information submission, including Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, the police emergency hotline at 211, or direct communication with the Black Rock Police Station at 417-7500 or 417-7501. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.

  • PM touts government’s efforts to reduce cost of living

    PM touts government’s efforts to reduce cost of living

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has revealed that her administration will unveil a suite of groundbreaking national policies within the coming fortnight, designed to fortify the Caribbean nation’s socioeconomic foundations against growing global instabilities. The announcement came during a public address following a religious service at Jackson’s Church of God in St. Michael on Sunday.

    Mottley emphasized that these forthcoming measures would transcend political affiliations, targeting holistic societal support from infancy through senior citizenship. “I have some exciting new policies that we will announce over the course of the next two weeks that I hope will allow us as a people, not the [Barbados] Labour Party family, not the Dems, but us as a people to continue to provide the resilience we need,” stated the Prime Minister, who also represents St. Michael North East constituency.

    Defending her government’s track record, Mottley acknowledged the challenges of national recovery while highlighting consistent progress. She cited critical infrastructure stabilization through acquisitions of garbage trucks and buses, though admitting services weren’t yet perfect. “This is a journey and on a journey you see progress, but you’re not yet at your final destination,” she remarked.

    The administration’s economic strategy has centered on alleviating cost-of-living pressures through innovative fiscal reforms. Since 2019, tax system restructuring has effectively eliminated income taxes for citizens earning under $35,000 annually. From April, homeowners with properties valued below $400,000 will be exempt from land taxation.

    Additional consumer protection measures include VAT and import duty removals on essential goods, with recent expansions to cover stewed beef and Horlicks. Electricity VAT has been capped at 10%, while the Ask Dealia price comparison application empowers consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

    Social protection frameworks have been significantly enhanced through pioneering disability grants and supporting legislation. Economic resilience efforts include bolstering food security via the International Food Centre at Newton and a new St. Philip tissue culture laboratory to improve agricultural material access.

    Mottley conceded administrative imperfections, citing ongoing roadwork challenges, but framed Barbados’ development within broader global context of conflict-induced weariness and economic uncertainty. She urged national perseverance, referencing the Mission 2030 agenda as a long-term developmental framework rather than expecting immediate transformations.

    “This is a journey. This is not a single event,” Mottley concluded, expressing confidence that sustained effort and national resilience would propel Barbados toward significant achievements despite global headwinds.

  • U-17 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers : Haiti crush Antigua and Barbuda [6-1] (video)

    U-17 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers : Haiti crush Antigua and Barbuda [6-1] (video)

    In a spectacular display of offensive prowess, Haiti’s U-17 women’s national soccer team commenced their FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifying campaign with an emphatic 6-1 triumph over Antigua and Barbuda on January 25, 2026. The match, held at FFK Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao, showcased Haiti’s technical superiority and strategic coordination from the opening whistle.

    Under the guidance of Coach Frenoy Baptiste, the Haitian squad demonstrated remarkable attacking efficiency throughout the contest. The scoring commenced in the 19th minute when forward Keisha Gue capitalized on a corner opportunity, directing a precise close-range shot into the bottom right corner. Just three minutes later, Kerdina Lamour doubled Haiti’s advantage with a well-placed right-footed strike from the left side of the penalty area.

    Gue secured her brace in the 30th minute with another clinical finish, establishing a commanding 3-0 lead that persisted through halftime. The second half witnessed continued dominance as Kyrah Lormil extended the margin to 4-0 in the 53rd minute, benefitting from Gue’s assist. Adjani Kamanzi-Mondestin, entering as a substitute, netted Haiti’s fifth goal in the 65th minute with an impressive right-footed shot into the top right corner.

    Despite conceding a consolation goal to Antigua and Barbuda’s Keitonya Skepple in the 79th minute, Haiti maintained offensive pressure, with Lamour completing her double in the 86th minute to finalize the 6-1 scoreline. The comprehensive victory positions Haiti favorably in their qualification group, tied with Guatemala on three points but leading on goal differential.

    The team’s multinational composition, featuring players from clubs in Haiti, the United States, Canada, Scotland, and Puerto Rico, demonstrated effective integration and collective understanding on the pitch. Haiti’s next qualification matches will see them face Saint Lucia on January 27, followed by encounters with the Cayman Islands and Guatemala, as they pursue qualification for the tournament scheduled in Morocco.

  • Government Investing in Night Farming to Address Climate Change

    Government Investing in Night Farming to Address Climate Change

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced a groundbreaking agricultural initiative on Saturday, revealing government investments in nocturnal farming operations as a direct response to climate-driven temperature increases. During his appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne’ programme, the leader explained that solar lighting installations will enable agricultural workers to cultivate crops during cooler nighttime hours, effectively avoiding peak daytime heat that has significantly hampered productivity.

    The innovative approach addresses the growing challenge of heat waves linked to climate change, which have rendered traditional daytime farming increasingly difficult. ‘We’ll be putting in solar lights so that those who want to farm at night can do so,’ Browne stated, explicitly connecting the measure to ‘the issue with heat waves as a consequence of climate change.’

    This night farming strategy forms one component of a comprehensive agricultural modernization program designed to protect farmers from intensifying weather extremes while enhancing food security. The method offers dual benefits: greater scheduling flexibility for planting and harvesting operations, and improved productivity as workers avoid the most oppressive daytime temperatures.

    The solar initiative accompanies additional agricultural investments including advanced heavy equipment acquisitions and expanded water storage infrastructure. These coordinated efforts represent the government’s multifaceted approach to strengthening food production systems against climate variability. Browne emphasized the necessity of adapting traditional practices, noting ‘We have to adjust the way we do things’ to maintain and expand local food production despite environmental challenges.

  • Oyster World Rally 2026–27 Sets Sail from Antigua

    Oyster World Rally 2026–27 Sets Sail from Antigua

    Oyster Yachts has officially inaugurated its fifth Oyster World Rally, embarking on an extraordinary 16-month global circumnavigation reserved exclusively for yacht owners. The prestigious fleet of 23 vessels set sail from Antigua, commencing a meticulously planned 27,000-nautical-mile journey across multiple ocean systems.

    This edition marks a significant milestone for the luxury yacht builder as company chairman Richard Hadida joined the expedition with his family for the first time. The departure ceremony witnessed distinguished attendees including the Governor General of Antigua, specially invited guests, and the Oyster support team, enhanced by vibrant cultural performances featuring traditional Antiguan dancers and steel pan music.

    The international fleet comprises owners from eight different nations sailing yachts ranging from 50 to 90 feet in length. Notably, 15 of these vessels represent Oyster’s new-generation models, including the Oyster 565, 595, 675, and the flagship 885. Participants benefit from comprehensive end-to-end support including specialized owner preparation programs, training sessions, and dedicated technical and logistics teams positioned strategically along the route.

    Several rally participants arrived in Antigua following impressive performances in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, where Oyster yachts secured the top three positions in Cruising Class B. The entire global journey can be tracked in real-time through online platforms, allowing sailing enthusiasts worldwide to monitor the fleet’s progress throughout their epic adventure.

  • PM Feels Vindicated by Global Ports Deal After Opposition Criticism

    PM Feels Vindicated by Global Ports Deal After Opposition Criticism

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly defended Antigua and Barbuda’s cruise port concession agreement with Global Ports Holding, revealing significant financial benefits following years of substantial private investment. The arrangement, once criticized as disadvantageous to the nation, has transformed the port’s economic trajectory from loss-making to revenue-positive operation.

    Appearing on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne’ program Saturday, the Prime Minister detailed the comprehensive financial turnaround. Global Ports Holding has injected over $80 million into modernizing port infrastructure while simultaneously clearing approximately $21 million in inherited government debt that previously burdened the facility.

    The concession agreement has fundamentally altered the government’s financial responsibilities, transferring major capital expenses from public coffers to private management. This shift has positioned the government as a net revenue earner rather than bearing continuous operational losses. Additionally, passenger head taxes have increased to between $3-$4 per cruise passenger, generating amplified revenue streams as tourist numbers recover post-pandemic.

    Prime Minister Browne emphasized that enhanced facilities and expanded berthing capacity have substantially boosted the nation’s competitiveness within the Caribbean cruise industry. The agreement contains a reversion clause ensuring all port assets will return to government control after the 30-year concession period, characterizing the arrangement as a long-term infrastructure investment rather than a permanent transfer of assets.

    The Prime Minister addressed critics directly, noting that objections frequently overlook both the massive scale of private investment and the port’s precarious financial condition preceding the agreement. He maintained that the partnership has successfully modernized critical national infrastructure while simultaneously stabilizing public finances, declaring the arrangement ‘extremely well’ for the country’s economic interests.

  • Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta welcomes return of Carriacou sloop New Moon

    Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta welcomes return of Carriacou sloop New Moon

    The prestigious Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta 2026 will feature the celebrated return of New Moon, a 31-foot Carriacou sloop that embodies both maritime tradition and youth development initiatives. Based in Antigua, this vessel has become an iconic participant in the region’s sailing events.

    Constructed in 2010 on Windward Beach in Carriacou using locally sourced timber harvested during a new moon phase, the sloop represents traditional boatbuilding techniques. In 2018, ownership transferred to sailing enthusiasts Billy Gernertt and Charlotte Hooijdonk, who subsequently relocated the vessel to Antigua where it has since become a regular competitor.

    New Moon has established an impressive competitive record, consistently appearing on the winner’s podium. The sloop has been honored with the John Leader Trophy for Most Respected Yacht and the Seahorse Studios Trophy for best embodying the event’s spirit. Additionally, it has achieved the remarkable distinction of winning the Concours d’Elégance for traditional boats for five consecutive years.

    The vessel sails with a crew of young Antiguan trainees, combining competitive racing with educational development. Its distinctive blue and orange hull coloration has become instantly recognizable on the water, serving as a visual representation of Caribbean sailing’s rich heritage while simultaneously pointing toward its future through youth engagement and training programs.

  • Antigua and Barbuda adds three new CARIFTA qualifiers

    Antigua and Barbuda adds three new CARIFTA qualifiers

    Antigua and Barbuda’s athletic delegation for the upcoming CARIFTA Games has received a significant boost with three new athletes securing their spots through outstanding competitive performances. The qualification achievements highlight the nation’s growing prowess in track and field disciplines across multiple age categories.

    Reigning CARIFTA champion Zonique Charles has successfully defended her competitive standing by qualifying in the Under-17 javelin event, reinforcing her position as one of the country’s most promising field athletes. Her continued excellence demonstrates remarkable consistency in the specialized throwing discipline.

    In track events, Javon Simon earned his qualification in the demanding Under-20 400-meter sprint, showcasing impressive speed and endurance capabilities. Simultaneously, Naeem Simon secured his position in the Under-17 high jump competition following a particularly impressive performance that met the rigorous qualification standards.

    National sports officials have expressed considerable satisfaction with these developments, noting that the triple qualification provides substantial momentum to the team’s preparatory efforts for the regional championships. With additional qualification opportunities anticipated in the coming weeks, expectations remain high for further expansions to the national contingent. The successful qualifications reflect both individual athletic excellence and systematic development programs within Antigua and Barbuda’s sporting infrastructure.

  • Nieuw SZF-bestuur krijgt sleutelrol in stabiliteit en betaalbaarheid van zorg

    Nieuw SZF-bestuur krijgt sleutelrol in stabiliteit en betaalbaarheid van zorg

    Suriname’s Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor, André Misiekaba, officially inaugurated the new governing board of the State Health Insurance Foundation (SZF) on Friday, emphasizing the institution’s critical role in the nation’s healthcare system. The installation ceremony marked a strategic move toward enhanced oversight, financial discipline, and operational transparency within the country’s primary health insurer.

    Minister Misiekaba underscored that the effectiveness of Suriname’s entire healthcare infrastructure is intrinsically linked to SZF’s performance. “The healthcare system stands or falls with the functioning of SZF,” he stated, adding that any operational challenges at the foundation would create “a problem for all of Suriname.” The newly appointed board has been tasked with serving as the ministry’s eyes and ears, providing rigorous supervision of the fund’s management and daily operations.

    A paramount objective for the incoming administration involves preparing the transition to a single-payer healthcare model, where all payments within the sector would be processed exclusively through SZF. This structural overhaul aims to achieve greater efficiency, improved cost control, and enhanced oversight across healthcare services. Implementation will require legislative amendments and intensive consultations with healthcare providers and stakeholders.

    Board member Marciano Djanam emphasized to the Suriname Communication Service that policy changes must yield tangible benefits for citizens. Despite economic challenges, he affirmed the commitment to maintaining accessible and affordable healthcare. “We already see doctors receiving timely payments and patients avoiding additional co-payments at main pharmacies. This stability must be maintained and strengthened,” Djanam noted.

    The diverse board composition includes financial experts, medical professionals, and business leaders: Soecil Oemar, Marciano Djanam, Raynel Enfield, Rajendra Ramautar, Raoul Abisoina, and Milton Sandvliet. Joan Dogojo and Reginald Talea will serve as deputy members to ensure decision-making continuity. The board will remain in function until the next regular governance elections in September.

  • Legacy returns for Independence with ‘a show of nonstop hits’

    Legacy returns for Independence with ‘a show of nonstop hits’

    Saint Lucia’s highly anticipated annual entertainment spectacle, Legacy, is poised to make a triumphant return on February 7th at the Rodney Bay Pavilion. This cornerstone cultural event promises an electrifying fusion of nostalgia, vibrant Caribbean culture, and high-octane musical performances, serving as the official launchpad for the nation’s Independence festivities.

    Headlining this year’s star-studded roster is Destra Garcia, internationally acclaimed as the ‘undisputed Queen of Soca.’ The Trinidadian superstar brings her legendary catalogue of carnival anthems including ‘Lucy,’ ‘It’s Carnival,’ and ‘Just a Little Bit’ to the Saint Lucian stage.

    The production will showcase an impressive convergence of musical generations, uniting revered local calypso icons with emerging talents and regional superstars. The Saint Lucian contingent features former Soca Monarch champions Teddyson John, Arthur Allain, and Alpha—artists whose infectious rhythms have gained international recognition. They will be joined by current Triple Crown winner Dezral and supported by prominent local acts including Ashanti, Educator, Mantius, Blackeye, and Short Pants.

    Teddy Francis, co-creator of Legacy, emphasized the event’s significance beyond entertainment. “Audiences can anticipate a continuous stream of classic hits that will evoke powerful memories across decades,” Francis stated. “This event generates crucial early momentum for our Independence celebrations and consistently emerges as a seasonal highlight. More importantly, it facilitates invaluable cultural exchange between Caribbean icons and our homegrown talents.”

    Now in its eighth year, Legacy has fundamentally transformed Saint Lucia’s cultural landscape by liberating calypso and soca music from seasonal constraints. Francis noted the event’s lasting impact: “Legacy has successfully broken the cyclical nature that traditionally limited calypso to Carnival season. We’ve witnessed substantial artistic growth, expanded international exposure for our performers, and sustained promotion of these musical genres throughout the year.”