Carib Scope

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  • FLASH : Swedish Pia Sundhage new Coach of Grenadières Senior

    FLASH : Swedish Pia Sundhage new Coach of Grenadières Senior

    In a landmark move for Caribbean football, the Haitian Football Federation (FHF) has secured the services of internationally acclaimed Swedish coach Pia Sundhage to helm its senior women’s national team, the Grenadières. This strategic appointment comes precisely two weeks following the departure of former French coach Malou Quignette, whose contract was not renewed.

    Sundhage arrives with an unparalleled pedigree in international women’s football, boasting an extraordinary track record that includes dual Olympic gold medals coaching the United States (2008, 2012), a World Cup final appearance (2011), Olympic silver with Sweden (2016), and a Copa América triumph with Brazil (2022). Her distinguished playing career further enhances her credentials, with 146 international caps and 71 goals for Sweden.

    Beyond her trophy-laden resume, Sundhage brings globally recognized expertise in structuring high-performance environments, developing emerging talent, and instilling cultures of excellence and discipline. Her proven capacity to manage elite competitions and international pressure makes her uniquely qualified for Haiti’s ambitious project.

    The FHF has positioned this appointment as a cornerstone for comprehensive institutional transformation. The federation’s vision extends beyond immediate sporting results to encompass strengthening Haiti’s entire technical organization, harmonizing standards across national teams and youth development programs, and establishing Haiti as a credible force in international football.

    A fundamental component of Sundhage’s mandate involves knowledge transfer to Haitian coaches through dedicated mentoring programs, methodology sharing, and gradual integration of local expertise within the coaching staff. This approach ensures that international expertise directly contributes to the sustainable development of Haitian football’s technical infrastructure.

    The federation has expressed full confidence in Sundhage’s leadership as Haiti embarks on this new chapter, with qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil serving as an immediate competitive objective.

  • Public Advisory: Prohibition on Harvesting and Consuming Fish and Shellfish from Cove West of Cook’s Landfill

    Public Advisory: Prohibition on Harvesting and Consuming Fish and Shellfish from Cove West of Cook’s Landfill

    Health and environmental authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have issued an urgent advisory prohibiting all fishing and seafood consumption from waters near Hermitage Bay following confirmed petroleum contamination. The joint notice from the Central Board of Health and Fisheries Division emerged after the Antigua Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard detected an oil sheen in the waters west of Cook’s Landfill on the morning of February 12, 2026.

    Immediate response teams from both the Coast Guard and West Indies Oil Company conducted comprehensive assessments confirming the presence of petroleum-based contaminants on the water surface. Preliminary investigations point to potential seepage from the adjacent Cook’s Landfill area as the likely contamination source, though official determination remains ongoing.

    While current wind and wave patterns are dispersing the substance away from shorelines, authorities have implemented precautionary measures due to potential risks to marine ecosystems and human health. The advisory specifically prohibits fishing activities, consumption of marine life, and commercial distribution of seafood from the affected cove area.

    Emergency response protocols have been partially activated with multiple agencies including the Environment Division, Port Authority, and APUA now monitoring the situation. Coast Guard units remain on-site conducting aerial surveillance to determine the full extent of environmental impact.

    Officials urge public compliance with these protective measures and request immediate reporting of any additional petroleum sightings to Coast Guard emergency numbers provided in the advisory.

  • Cool temperatures: What will the weather be like this weekend in the Dominican Republic?

    Cool temperatures: What will the weather be like this weekend in the Dominican Republic?

    Meteorological systems converging north of the Caribbean are set to deliver a weekend of unusually cool temperatures and significant precipitation across the Dominican Republic. A pronounced trough interacting with an advancing cold front will create widespread atmospheric instability throughout the nation’s territory.

    The most substantial rainfall accumulations are forecast for the Cibao valley region, the Greater Santo Domingo metropolitan area, and the provinces of Monseñor Nouel, La Vega, and San Cristóbal. These zones should prepare for intense downpours potentially accompanied by isolated thunderstorm activity. The national weather service has issued advisories regarding possible flash flooding in topographically vulnerable and low-lying areas, urging residents to monitor official emergency communications channels.

    Temperatures will register notably below seasonal averages, producing distinctly chilly conditions, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. Precipitation patterns will manifest as intermittent afternoon showers on both Saturday and Sunday, transitioning to more scattered nocturnal rainfall activity. The combined effect of persistent cloud cover and precipitation will maintain the cooler thermal regime throughout the weekend period.

  • 16 Cattle Dead in Cayo; BAHA Confirms Cause

    16 Cattle Dead in Cayo; BAHA Confirms Cause

    A distressing agricultural crisis has unfolded in El Pilar, Cayo District, where sixteen cattle have succumbed to a mysterious illness since January 2026. The latest casualties were discovered on February 13th when farmer Adrian Balan and his family arrived at their ranch to administer routine vaccinations, only to find three additional animals deceased.

    The Balan family, who report experiencing similar losses annually for several years, maintains rigorous animal health protocols despite the ongoing tragedy. Their cattle received dual treatments for tick fever and annual vaccinations against blackleg and rabies. The family further investigated potential causes by testing both water supplies and conducting blood analyses on their livestock, all of which returned normal results.

    The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) has identified the culprit as anaplasmosis, a tick-borne disease that has prompted more than two months of surveillance in affected regions. BAHA Managing Director Zoe Zetina confirmed the diagnosis, explaining transmission occurs primarily through tick bites and contaminated veterinary equipment.

    “Farmers must enhance their tick management protocols,” Zetina emphasized, noting the disease spreads only through these specific vectors and not through direct animal-to-animal contact. The announcement comes as the Balan family continues to seek solutions to an agricultural nightmare that threatens both their livelihood and food security in the region.

  • Woman Lives in Fear After Attacker Freed

    Woman Lives in Fear After Attacker Freed

    A Belizean domestic violence survivor faces renewed trauma and financial hardship after her assailant was unexpectedly released from prison, leaving her in a perpetual state of fear. Ilsida Navas, 37, suffered life-altering injuries when her partner assaulted her with a machete as she slept last August, resulting in the amputation of her left arm and severe torso injuries.

    The attack occurred in the predawn hours while Navas was asleep. “I had gotten sleepy and went to sleep, and around three in the morning he attacked me with the machete,” the mother of four recounted to local media. Beyond the physical trauma, the incident has devastated her ability to provide for her children as a single parent—their father having left for the United States six years ago without providing support.

    Navas now navigates the challenges of amputee life while seeking funding for a prosthetic arm. Medical professionals in El Salvador have quoted her $3,800 USD for the essential limb replacement, prompting her to seek public assistance for the procedure.

    The situation intensified when Navas discovered her attacker had been freed from Belize Central Prison. “The surprise that I get right now is that the man is already out… He’s walking. I don’t know why,” she expressed, highlighting the justice system’s failure to protect vulnerable victims. Her case underscores ongoing concerns about domestic violence prevention and judicial accountability in Belize.

  • Social reality: Woman, mother and “NEET”: the female face of a worrying statistic

    Social reality: Woman, mother and “NEET”: the female face of a worrying statistic

    In the Dominican Republic, a silent crisis disproportionately affects young women, as exemplified by the story of 35-year-old Brianda Araujo Rodríguez. A mother of five, Brianda battles type two diabetes and associated neuropathy that prevents her from maintaining employment. Her last position at a bank ended a year ago, forcing her to rely on siblings for financial support while managing daily insulin injections and Metformin treatments.

    Brianda’s challenges extend beyond health concerns. Her personal history includes a marriage at 15 to a man 14 years her senior—a relationship marked by mistreatment, infidelity, and deception. The early loss of her mother compounded these difficulties, creating a childhood trauma that continues to resonate. Her primary aspiration now centers on ensuring her children avoid repeating her patterns.

    The educational gap affecting her family illustrates broader systemic issues. Two of her five children have been out of school for two years due to inability to secure placements—a situation that reflects national trends. Recent statistics from the National Statistics Office (ONE) reveal that among 628,181 Dominicans aged 18-35 who neither work nor study, 454,779 (72.4%) are women.

    Sociologist Tahira Vargas analyzes this gender disparity through labor market dynamics. “Access to employment is heavily mediated by strategies that are entirely masculine,” Vargas notes, explaining that informal sector jobs—such as motorcycle taxiing, security, and electrical work—predominantly employ men. Women without academic credentials typically find limited opportunities in domestic work or caregiving roles.

    In response to this crisis, the Dominican government launched the “Opportunity 14-24” program in October 2020. Coordinated by the Social Policy Cabinet under Alexander Mordan, this initiative aims to reintegrate vulnerable youth into education systems (ages 14-17) or prepare them for labor market entry (ages 18-24). Despite these efforts, structural barriers continue to perpetuate gender inequalities in economic participation.

  • Grenada Revolution chronicled by photographer Arthur Winner

    Grenada Revolution chronicled by photographer Arthur Winner

    At 81 years old, Arthur Winner, the unassuming photographer who documented Grenada’s revolutionary era, has formally entrusted his extensive collection of historical images to the Grenada National Trust. The veteran photographer, who describes himself as “a servant of the people,” captured defining moments during the Grenada Revolution while working within the Government Information Service (GIS).

    Winner’s black-and-white photographs represent one of the most significant visual records of Grenada’s modern history, preserved through political turmoil and rescued following the 1983 invasion. The collection includes historic moments such as the visit of Samora Machel, President of Mozambique, where Winner and his colleagues worked through the night to prepare a photographic dossier for the departing African leader.

    Ruggles Ferguson, former head of the government’s media centre, recalled racing to the airport with the finished album, crediting Winner as the critical figure in ensuring the photographs were ready in time. Winner also documented the extensive construction of what is now Maurice Bishop International Airport, week after week, capturing the transformation that would reshape the country’s future.

    The decision to donate his carefully safeguarded negatives came after Winner watched Jumaane Williams, a son of Grenadian soil, deliver an impassioned address about his heritage during his swearing-in as New York City’s Public Advocate. This moment made Winner acutely aware of the pressing need to preserve history for future generations.

    Darryl Brathwaite, President of the Grenada National Trust, emphasized that the donation represents far more than a transfer of old prints—it serves as a foundation stone in the country’s heritage infrastructure. “As a young nation, we are trying to build up our past to guide where we are going,” Brathwaite explained. “This is a national treasure owned by the people.”

    The GNT plans to digitize the entire collection, identify the faces and stories within the photographs, and mount a national exhibition. Discussions are underway to establish a formal national archive where the originals can be preserved under proper conservation conditions. Brathwaite hopes this gesture will inspire other Grenadians to come forward with historical photographs that may hold equally valuable pieces of the national narrative.

  • Jamaican Artist Brings ‘Lot of Love For The Ladies’

    Jamaican Artist Brings ‘Lot of Love For The Ladies’

    Belize City is set to experience a night of romantic melodies as Jamaican artist D’yani makes his inaugural visit to the country for a special Valentine’s Day performance. The highly anticipated “Feelings” concert, scheduled for February 14th at the Airport Authority parking lot, marks the singer’s first professional engagement in Belize and his initial Valentine’s celebration in the nation.

    Event promoter Amir Garcia of Young Survivors Entertainment revealed that D’yani’s selection was driven by overwhelming public demand, particularly from female admirers of his distinctive romantic musical style. “The choice was remarkably straightforward for Valentine’s Day,” Garcia stated, emphasizing the perfect alignment between the artist’s vocal qualities and genre with the romantic occasion.

    The Jamaican performer, who boasts seven years of professional singing experience, expressed genuine appreciation for his Belizean fanbase. “I must acknowledge the tremendous support from Belizean audiences who have consistently supported my artistic journey,” D’yani remarked upon his Thursday arrival. He further described Belize as a visually stunning destination and conveyed enthusiasm about establishing deeper connections with local supporters.

    The concert promises an immersive experience of positive energy and romantic ambiance, with D’yani hinting at “excellent vibrations, abundant roses, and plentiful affection for female attendees.” Enhancing the musical diversity, ten of Belize’s most prominent DJs will complement the main performance with selections spanning lovers rock, R&B, and other mood-appropriate genres, ensuring a comprehensive Valentine’s celebration for all attendees.

  • Coach Harte hails Junior Tridents’ performance

    Coach Harte hails Junior Tridents’ performance

    Barbados’ junior football program has achieved a remarkable milestone as the Under-17 national team delivered an exceptional performance at the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers in Trinidad. The Junior Tridents, under the guidance of head coach Marlon Harte, secured second place in Group A behind tournament favorites Mexico, who have advanced to the World Cup finals.

    The team’s campaign concluded triumphantly with a decisive 6-0 victory over Saint Martin, showcasing the squad’s offensive prowess and defensive solidity. Their journey through the qualifiers included a commendable 1-0 win against Trinidad and Tobago and a dominant 7-1 performance against St Maarten. The sole defeat came against the group winners Mexico, with a respectable 4-1 scoreline against one of the region’s football powerhouses.

    Upon their return to Barbados on Friday morning, the young athletes received a hero’s welcome from scores of enthusiastic parents, supporters, and officials from the Barbados Football Association (BFA), led by general secretary Nicholas Brancker.

    Coach Harte emphasized the significance of this achievement for the island’s football development. “This represents a tremendous opportunity that demonstrates the dedication of all clubs, coaches, and the ongoing development work,” Harte stated. He highlighted the importance of exposure to high-level competition through both the Prime Minister’s Cup and the Premier League as crucial factors in building player confidence and experience.

    The coaching staff’s immediate focus will be maintaining the squad’s core structure while monitoring players competing at various youth levels, in the BFA Premiership, and internationally. Harte stressed the importance of continued player development and parental involvement in sustaining progress.

    Team captain Tariq Barker attributed their success to exceptional squad cohesion, describing the team as “like a family” where players naturally bonded and supported each other throughout the competition.

    The Barbados Football Association views this performance as a foundation for future success, with plans already underway for training sessions and potential squad expansion to identify and develop new talent.

  • Director of Tourism says DA is well prepared for Mas Domnik 2026

    Director of Tourism says DA is well prepared for Mas Domnik 2026

    With the vibrant Mas Domnik 2026 Carnival scheduled for February 16-17, Dominica’s tourism authorities have confirmed full preparedness for the anticipated cultural extravaganza. Marva Williams, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Tourism, expressed confidence during Thursday’s final press conference that the island nation is ready to host what promises to be a significant economic catalyst.

    Williams highlighted Carnival’s crucial role as a primary economic driver during Dominica’s first-quarter tourism performance. The event generates substantial demand across multiple sectors including hospitality, transportation, culinary services, retail, and entertainment while simultaneously enhancing the island’s visibility throughout Caribbean markets. ‘Mas Domnik represents culture in motion and commerce in action,’ Williams stated, emphasizing the dual cultural and economic significance of the festivities.

    Current industry metrics present an encouraging outlook, with accommodation providers reporting strong occupancy levels particularly from regional Caribbean visitors and diaspora communities. Air accessibility continues to facilitate steady inbound passenger traffic, with tourism value chain stakeholders positioned for an exceptionally active weekend. Williams emphasized that this momentum underscores Carnival’s vital function in supporting livelihoods and stimulating economic circulation at the community level.

    The tourism director further elaborated on Carnival’s broader economic impact, noting that the event creates substantial opportunities for entrepreneurs, creative professionals, event promoters, vendors, designers, and service providers. Beyond immediate economic benefits, the festivities drive repeat visitation patterns and strengthen destination loyalty among international visitors. For many small-scale operators, the Carnival period represents a significant portion of their annual revenue.

    From a branding perspective, Williams noted that Mas Domnik establishes Dominica as a culture-forward Caribbean destination, showcasing the island’s distinctive music, fashion, creativity, and energy in uniquely recognizable ways. Visitors don’t merely attend an event but participate in an authentically Dominican experience that creates lasting impressions.

    The Discover Dominica Authority has spent months coordinating with government agencies, security services, and private sector partners to ensure comprehensive operational readiness. Planning has addressed critical aspects including visitor flow management, event logistics, communication systems, and safety coordination. Williams confirmed that all necessary frameworks are established to support a well-managed Carnival period while emphasizing that successful execution requires collective responsibility from all participants.

    The tourism director encouraged patrons to celebrate responsibly, adhere to public guidance, and contribute to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. She specifically addressed responsible alcohol consumption and transportation choices, noting that the quality of the Carnival experience directly influences how visitors perceive and discuss Dominica long after the festivities conclude.