Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • 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.”

  • Alfred reigns again as athlete of the year

    Alfred reigns again as athlete of the year

    The Saint Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA) has celebrated exceptional athletic achievements and administrative dedication during its prestigious annual awards ceremony held January 24 at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Under the theme “A Legacy of Performance, A Future of Possibilities,” the federation recognized outstanding contributors across multiple categories.

    World Athletics bronze medalist Julien Alfred and quarter-miler Marvric Pamphile received the coveted Athletes of the Year honors for 2025. The ceremony also highlighted emerging talent, with double CARIFTA sprint champion Jady Emmanuel claiming Female Junior Athlete of the Year and record-breaking thrower Denzel Phillips securing Male Junior Athlete of the Year. Juvenile athletes Avery Maryat and Hadassah Jules were additionally recognized for their exceptional performances throughout the past competitive season.

    Coaching excellence was prominently featured as Denise Herman of Choiseul Athletics earned Coach of the Year distinction. Finley Louis from Abilene Wildcats received a special Coaching Dedication Award honoring two decades of continuous service to athletic development. Among technical officials, young volunteer Noya Alexander was acknowledged as the year’s top contributor.

    Former national Sportswoman of the Year Makeba Alcide received Administrator of the Year honors, while Choiseul Athletics dominated the event by securing three major awards. The gathering attracted significant political and institutional presence, including Minister for Youth Development, Sports, and Digital Transformation Kenson Casimir, alongside representatives from the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee and National Lotteries Authority.

    Highlighting the inspirational power of athletic achievement, corporate leader and former beauty queen Louise Victor-Frederick delivered a poignant address reflecting on her own athletic background and emphasizing how athletes like Alfred inspire beyond sports arenas. Media partner Vybe Radio received recognition for their ongoing coverage and promotion of athletic accomplishments.

  • LISTEN: PM Browne thanks Sir Robin for his “sacrifices” for Antigua and Barbuda

    LISTEN: PM Browne thanks Sir Robin for his “sacrifices” for Antigua and Barbuda

    The Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda will convene a special ceremonial session on February 18th to commemorate an extraordinary political milestone—Sir Robin Yearwood’s fifty years of continuous parliamentary service. Prime Minister Gaston Browne made the formal announcement during his weekly appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne’ program, revealing that the event will serve as the centerpiece of nationwide celebrations orchestrated by a specially appointed Cabinet committee.

    Prime Minister Browne expressed profound admiration for Sir Robin’s unprecedented achievement, noting, ‘This remarkable longevity represents an exceptional record not merely within our nation, but across the entire Caribbean region and potentially throughout the Commonwealth nations. To maintain both health and public trust across five decades demonstrates extraordinary dedication.’

    The Cabinet has established a select committee comprising Prime Minister Browne, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin, and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph to coordinate multifaceted commemorative activities. These will honor Sir Yearwood’s uninterrupted representation of the St. Philip’s North constituency since first taking office in 1974.

    Sir Robin Yearwood’s distinguished career includes ministerial leadership across critical portfolios including Agriculture, Public Works, and Finance. Despite approaching his octogenarian years, he maintains active political engagement and robust health. The government is collaborating with Sir Robin’s family members to design appropriate tributes that properly reflect his enduring legacy.

    Beyond the parliamentary ceremony, celebrations will include constituency-level events and separate commemorations organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party. Prime Minister Browne emphasized that such prolonged service necessitates both exceptional personal resilience and sustained voter confidence, stating, ‘The public’s enduring trust remains the fundamental requirement for such longevity. In this regard, Sir Robin represents a truly special case in Caribbean political history.’

  • PM Signals Possible Extension for Shell Beach Investment Deadline

    PM Signals Possible Extension for Shell Beach Investment Deadline

    Antigua and Barbuda’s government is considering extending the January 30 deadline for investment proposals in the Shell Beach development project following unexpectedly strong public interest. Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed during his weekly appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne’ program that both the government and the National Asset Management Company (NAMCO) are evaluating the possibility of prolonging the submission period.

    Browne emphasized that the substantial response from potential investors has prompted authorities to reconsider the original timeline. ‘Given the level of interest, we may have to extend it,’ the Prime Minister stated, referring to the current cutoff date for project proposals.

    The National Asset Management Company, which oversees the evaluation process, is currently assessing both formal submissions and general public response to determine whether an extension would facilitate broader participation. Browne highlighted that the primary objective remains ensuring inclusive investment opportunities, particularly for ordinary citizens of Antigua and Barbuda.

    The Shell Beach initiative represents a strategic effort to expand local involvement in tourism-related investments through innovative accommodation models similar to Airbnb platforms. The project offers both beachfront and inland lots complemented by government concessions to stimulate domestic investment in the tourism sector.

    Any final decision regarding deadline adjustments will be formally communicated through NAMCO, which maintains responsibility for managing the entire proposal evaluation process. The potential extension demonstrates the government’s commitment to balancing administrative timelines with public accessibility, particularly when encountering substantial citizen engagement.

  • US-led task force steps up Caribbean maritime security operations

    US-led task force steps up Caribbean maritime security operations

    A multinational task force under U.S. leadership has significantly escalated its campaign against illicit maritime operations throughout the Caribbean basin. This strategic intensification follows a series of recent interdictions targeting vessels violating international sanctions regimes in the region.

    Designated as Operation Southern Spear, this comprehensive initiative represents a coordinated effort spanning multiple U.S. government agencies. The operation brings together specialized capabilities from the Department of Defense, Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Justice in a unified front against transnational criminal networks.

    Military assets operating under United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) are providing extensive operational support across the Caribbean theater. Defense officials characterize these efforts as crucial for disrupting criminal logistics chains, preventing sanctions evasion, and protecting vital national security interests.

    The joint task force, identified as Joint Task Force Southern Spear, emphasized that recent successful interdictions demonstrate the high state of readiness and operational capability of deployed forces. These maritime interventions form part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal infrastructure and strengthen regional maritime security frameworks.

    Operation Southern Spear constitutes a key component of the White House and Department of Defense’s hemispheric security strategy, specifically addressing threats including illegal trafficking, sanctions violations, and other maritime-based challenges. While operational specifics remain classified, the initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to maintaining maritime domain awareness and enforcement capabilities throughout the Caribbean region.