Carib Scope

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  • Fernandez backs licensed taxi operators amid airport enforcement concerns

    Fernandez backs licensed taxi operators amid airport enforcement concerns

    City Mayor Alexandra Fernandez has issued a firm endorsement of licensed taxi operators amidst growing tensions over enforcement practices at the city’s international airport. The announcement comes as airport authorities intensify regulatory measures targeting unlicensed transport services operating within airport premises.

    In a press conference held at City Hall, Fernandez emphasized the critical role of properly licensed and insured taxi services in maintaining passenger safety and regulatory compliance. “Our licensed operators undergo rigorous background checks, maintain proper insurance coverage, and adhere to established fare structures,” Fernandez stated. “They represent the standard of safety and reliability that our visitors deserve.”

    The mayor’s comments respond to mounting concerns from licensed taxi drivers who report significant financial losses due to unchecked competition from unpermitted transport services. Many legitimate operators claim that inconsistent enforcement has created an uneven playing field that threatens their livelihoods.

    Airport officials acknowledge the challenges, citing the difficulty of monitoring all entry points and the evolving tactics employed by unauthorized operators. Recent enforcement efforts have included increased patrols, higher penalties for violations, and enhanced coordination between airport security and local law enforcement.

    Consumer advocacy groups have raised concerns about passenger safety, noting that unlicensed vehicles typically lack commercial insurance coverage and may employ drivers without proper screening. The city’s transportation department is developing a public awareness campaign to educate travelers about identifying officially licensed transportation options.

    The controversy highlights the broader challenge urban centers face in balancing transportation innovation with regulatory compliance and passenger safety. Mayor Fernandez has called for a stakeholder summit next month to develop comprehensive solutions that address enforcement gaps while preserving fair market competition.

  • Liberty Caribbean embraces Safer Internet Day 2026 with a renewed commitment to digital responsibility and ethical technology use

    Liberty Caribbean embraces Safer Internet Day 2026 with a renewed commitment to digital responsibility and ethical technology use

    Liberty Caribbean has positioned itself at the forefront of digital safety advocacy by participating in Safer Internet Day 2026, embracing this year’s global theme of ‘Smart Tech, Safe Choices – Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI.’ The telecommunications leader has committed to promoting ethical decision-making and responsible online behavior as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into daily life.

    CEO Inge Smidts emphasized the company’s dedication to maintaining trust and safety amidst rapid technological advancement. “As the regional connectivity leader, we help customers, employees and communities make smart, informed choices online,” Smidts stated, underscoring Liberty Caribbean’s commitment to placing security at the core of digital connectivity through its operations including Flow, Liberty Business, and BTC.

    The evolving cybersecurity landscape presents significant challenges, as noted by Itay Yefet, Vice President of Information Technology and IT Operations. “Artificial intelligence adds a new layer of complexity to existing risks,” Yefet observed, highlighting the dual approach of strengthening technical systems while educating users about their digital choices.

    Liberty Caribbean marked the occasion with a virtual panel discussion titled ‘Smart Tech, Safe Choices. A Better Internet,’ organized in collaboration with parent company Liberty Latin America. The event brought together cybersecurity experts, community advocates, and executives to address critical topics including hyperconnectivity, AI integration, and shared responsibility for digital safety.

    Felipe Ruiz, Vice President of Information Security and CISO at Liberty Latin America, emphasized the irreplaceable role of human judgment in cybersecurity. “Technology can be intelligent, but it does not replace judgment. A safer internet begins with people, with the choices we make, the habits we build, and the awareness we share,” Ruiz remarked.

    The initiative comes amid escalating cyber threats throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Recent data reveals organizations in the region face approximately 3,000 cyberattacks weekly—a 26% year-over-year increase. Primary threats include AI-powered phishing schemes, data leak extortion, and ransomware attacks, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced digital resilience.

    Beyond internal efforts, Liberty Caribbean continues to partner with educational institutions and community organizations across its markets, delivering comprehensive training programs focused on online safety, data protection, scam prevention, and responsible digital conduct.

  • St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority Concludes Successful Two-Week Engagement with Consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel

    St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority Concludes Successful Two-Week Engagement with Consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) of St. Kitts and Nevis has successfully completed an extensive two-week consultation initiative led by distinguished consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel. This comprehensive program represents a pivotal advancement in establishing the Federation’s medicinal cannabis framework, combining regulatory development with public engagement strategies.

    The initiative featured an ambitious schedule including multi-stakeholder consultations, cultivator assemblies on both islands, media appearances, and high-level institutional meetings. These engagements were strategically designed to enhance regulatory preparedness and facilitate the sector’s transition to operational status.

    Cultivator meetings demonstrated remarkable participation, fostering productive dialogues focused on regulatory compliance, operational requirements, and the Authority’s commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable industry. Media outreach through ZIZ Television’s ‘InFocus’ and VON Radio’s ‘On The Mark’ with Premier Mark Brantley provided public education regarding the program’s objectives and national benefits.

    Critical institutional engagements included consultations with the Chief Medical Officer, medical professionals, the Bureau of Standards, Police High Command, and various government agencies. A significant meeting with the Premier of Nevis highlighted the essential role of intergovernmental cooperation in sector development.

    The program culminated in a well-attended public lecture that stimulated active audience participation and reinforced community interest in medicinal cannabis as both a public health initiative and economic development opportunity.

    The MCA acknowledges the constructive nature of all dialogues conducted during the consultation period and confirms that stakeholder feedback will inform the ongoing operationalization process. The Authority has officially opened the application process for sector participation, with licensing operations scheduled to commence imminently. Application materials are available at the MCA Office on Princes Street.

    The Authority expressed gratitude to Dr. Emanuel, all participating stakeholders, and community members while reaffirming its dedication to transparent, inclusive, and properly regulated sector development.

  • Jawahir: End in sight for free-roaming cattle at Choc Roundabout

    Jawahir: End in sight for free-roaming cattle at Choc Roundabout

    The persistent issue of free-roaming cattle near the Choc roundabout in St. Lucia is undergoing a significant government-led resolution. Agriculture Minister Lisa Jawahir has confirmed the commencement of a systematic relocation operation, moving approximately 77 heads of cattle from the hazardous highway vicinity to a newly prepared, enclosed site in Cocoa Dan, Vieux Fort.

    The initiative, which began over the weekend, involves a complex process of sedating, restraining, and transporting untethered animals. Minister Jawahir acknowledged the preparatory work initiated by her predecessor, Alfred Prospere, noting that several livestock farmers are already utilizing the secured southern pastures. The ministry’s livestock representatives provide daily oversight at the new location.

    This action follows a September 2023 vehicle collision with cattle near the roundabout, which accelerated long-standing plans to identify alternative grazing land. A local cattle owner who assessed the Vieux Fort site expressed approval, confirming the area is fully fenced and ready for occupation.

    Addressing concerns about merely transferring the problem to another region, Minister Jawahir emphasized the site’s security and distance from major highways. She also revealed ongoing inter-ministerial collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to install signage prohibiting public grazing. Enforcement will leverage the Animals Act (Cap. 3.11), which permits fines up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, and impoundment of livestock for owners who allow animals to cause obstructions or danger. The full relocation is anticipated to require several weeks to complete.

  • CHOGM training steps up as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for 2026 summit

    CHOGM training steps up as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for 2026 summit

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an intensive training program for public officials to enhance operational readiness for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Conducted at the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Training Centre, the sessions bring together personnel from multiple ministries and agencies to strengthen interdepartmental coordination capabilities.

    Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene emphasized the national significance of CHOGM 2026, characterizing it as a substantial governmental undertaking that demands seamless collaboration across all sectors. “This summit requires unprecedented coordination to guarantee security, operational efficiency, and an exceptional experience for all visiting delegations,” Minister Greene stated during the training inauguration.

    The comprehensive preparation program forms part of a broader initiative to build public service capacity and establish Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a competent host for major international gatherings. Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim highlighted the crucial role of the newly established National CHOGM Secretariat, which provides a centralized framework for strategic planning and interagency alignment while addressing emerging logistical challenges.

    Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Chief of Staff of the Defence Force, indicated that preparatory efforts are transitioning from strategic planning to practical execution phases. “We are entering the most critical implementation stage where discipline, coordinated response mechanisms, and timely decision-making will determine our success,” Benjamin noted during tactical exercises.

    The 2026 gathering will convene leaders from across the Commonwealth nations, positioning Antigua and Barbuda at the forefront of global diplomatic engagement and potentially elevating its international profile as a capable host state for significant multilateral events.

  • Titans Open Week Two with Convincing 5–1 Win Over Paradise Ballers

    Titans Open Week Two with Convincing 5–1 Win Over Paradise Ballers

    In a commanding display of precision and skill, the defending champions Titans asserted their dominance during the second week of the NPPA Elrick Pat Bezer 8-Ball Team Tournament at Kennedy’s Classic Club. The team secured a decisive 5-1 victory against Paradise Ballers, demonstrating why they remain the squad to beat this season.

    The match opened with the Titans taking an early lead before Paradise Ballers’ Sky responded with a sharp, disciplined performance against Charbel. Sky controlled the table masterfully, securing a 2-0 win that momentarily leveled the match at 1-1.

    Momentum swiftly returned to the Titans as captain B.A.D. engaged in a gritty contest against Tucker, ultimately prevailing 2-1. After splitting the first two racks, B.A.D. delivered the week’s first run-out, leaving seven balls on the table and denying Paradise Ballers a chance to take the overall lead.

    Eddie further extended the Titans’ advantage with another crucial 2-1 victory over Robbie. After conceding the opening rack, Eddie recalibrated his strategy, steadied the pace, and effectively shut down any potential Paradise Ballers resurgence.

    The night’s most dramatic moment arrived during the fifth matchup featuring debutant Chapo, formerly of the Sharpshooters, against Paradise Ballers’ captain Magic. Chapo delivered under immense pressure, securing a 2-1 victory that included the shot of the night—a spectacular one-cushion bank that cut back the length of the table on the eight ball, eliciting strong reactions from spectators.

    Cue Ball Rickie sealed the match in style with a composed 2-0 victory over O.B., despite testing his own nerves by missing the eight ball twice from open positions before finally closing out the contest.

    With the result already determined, Titans players Ses, Peck, and Marzack were not required to play, while Paradise Ballers’ XL, Emroy, and Max remained on the sidelines.

    The victory positions the Titans as comfortable frontrunners who handle championship expectations with ease, while Paradise Ballers must regroup and improve their conversion of opportunities in upcoming matches.

  • National Easter Festival 2026 Set to Launch in Antigua and Barbuda

    National Easter Festival 2026 Set to Launch in Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda will witness the inaugural National Easter Festival from April 4th to 6th, 2026, a landmark event organized through a collaborative partnership between the Irene B. Williams Secondary School PTA, Peetron Music, the National PTA Association, and So Arise Music International. This three-day celebration is strategically designed to merge cultural entertainment with substantial educational philanthropy.

    The festival itinerary commences on April 4th with the National School Choir Competition, highlighting secondary school ensembles performing in formal dress uniforms. This segment emphasizes vocal precision and artistic discipline, with a coveted $7,000 prize package awaiting the winning choir. The following day, April 5th, is dedicated to the Praise Break Gospel Quest, a competitive platform for gospel artists offering a $10,000 award, aimed at inspiring both participants and audiences through spiritual music.

    The grand finale on April 6th, dubbed ‘Joyful Noize,’ will be a large-scale gospel concert featuring dynamic musical performances.

    A core component of the festival extends beyond entertainment; it is structured as a charitable endeavor with a rotating annual focus. Proceeds from the 2026 event will be directly channeled to the Irene B. Williams Secondary School to address critical infrastructural and educational needs. Organizers have outlined a sustainable model where a different school will be adopted each subsequent year, ensuring ongoing strategic investment in the nation’s educational infrastructure.

    A formal proposal is slated for submission to the national Festival Commission, with expectations of strong governmental and public endorsement. The organizing consortium urges citizens to mark their calendars for this fusion of faith, youth talent, and community service, promising further details in forthcoming announcements.

  • Nieuwe brug verbetert bereikbaarheid Bende Kondre

    Nieuwe brug verbetert bereikbaarheid Bende Kondre

    In a significant infrastructure development for Suriname’s interior regions, Minister of Regional Development Miquella Huur officially inaugurated a new concrete bridge in Bende Kondre, Boven Suriname on February 10th. The 16-meter long and 3-meter wide structure spans a heavily utilized creek that serves as a vital transportation route for residents of Bende Kondre and surrounding villages.

    The newly completed bridge represents a major enhancement to regional connectivity and safety standards. Prior to its construction, residents faced considerable challenges crossing the waterway, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The infrastructure project directly addresses these mobility constraints while facilitating improved access to essential services and economic opportunities.

    Minister Huur expressed satisfaction with the project’s completion, emphasizing her ministry’s ongoing commitment to nationwide community development. “While we cannot fulfill all requests simultaneously,” Huur stated, “this bridge demonstrates our sustained dedication to improving living conditions across all regions of Suriname.” The minister extended gratitude to both the construction contractor and local residents whose collaborative efforts ensured the project’s successful realization.

    District Commissioner Humphry Jeroe appealed to the community to maintain the infrastructure properly, highlighting the importance of local stewardship in preserving public assets. Granman (paramount chief) Albert Aboikondo conveyed appreciation for the government’s development efforts, acknowledging the bridge’s transformative potential for the region. Community members echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that the project would catalyze further developmental initiatives in the area.

    The inauguration ceremony signifies the Surinamese government’s continued focus on addressing infrastructure disparities in remote communities, potentially setting a precedent for similar projects in other underserved regions of the country.

  • Dominican Pilots Association calls for release of pilot detained in Guinea

    Dominican Pilots Association calls for release of pilot detained in Guinea

    SANTO DOMINGO – The Dominican Republic’s aviation community has launched an urgent international campaign demanding the immediate release of pilot Fabio Nicolás Espinal Núñez, who remains detained in Guinea under controversial circumstances since December despite a court-ordered release.

    The crisis emerged when Espinal Núñez, during an international flight operation, executed a scheduled technical landing for refueling in Guinean airspace. Despite maintaining proper communication with air traffic authorities throughout the maneuver, local military officials subsequently arrested him on allegations of unauthorized landing and airspace violations. Although an appeals court later granted conditional release, Guinean authorities have refused to implement the judicial decision, extending the pilot’s detention indefinitely.

    At a emotionally charged press conference in Santo Domingo, family representatives revealed grave concerns about Espinal Núñez’s deteriorating physical and mental health amid Guinea’s current political climate. International human rights organizations have documented widespread arbitrary detentions and severe civil liberty restrictions under the nation’s military-controlled government.

    Captain Eugenio de Marchena, President of the National Association of Pilots (ANP), condemned the detention as a violation of fundamental aviation protocols. ‘Technical fuel stops are universally recognized procedures governed by international cooperation and good faith principles,’ de Marchena stated. ‘This arbitrary detention sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the entire framework of global civil aviation.’

    The ANP has mobilized a multinational response, urging pilot associations, aeronautical federations, and international aviation bodies to activate emergency mediation channels. Simultaneously, the association has formally petitioned Dominican President Luis Abinader to escalate diplomatic interventions through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, demanding immediate consular protection and due process guarantees for the detained aviator.

  • Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially celebrated the exceptional achievement of Jamaican prodigy Vitel Lawes, whose remarkable performance at the 2026 ICC Under 19 World Cup secured his place in the Tournament’s Select Team. The 18-year-old left-arm wrist spinner distinguished himself as a pivotal force within the West Indies squad, captivating global cricket audiences with his skillful displays and mental fortitude throughout the competition.

    Lawes emerged as the leading wicket-taker for the Caribbean side, claiming 10 crucial scalps with his deceptive bowling. His tournament journey began spectacularly with a 3/23 spell against Tanzania, effectively dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup. He continued his impressive form despite team setbacks, securing another three-wicket haul (3/48) against Afghanistan and delivering critical breakthroughs in subsequent matches against South Africa, Ireland, and Australia. Notably, Lawes bowled a tournament-high 150 dot balls, consistently building pressure on opposing batsmen.

    Reflecting on his achievement, Lawes described the selection as “a very big achievement” following initial doubts about his place in the World Cup team after a challenging series against Sri Lanka. “To come from such a low moment, this is a tremendous feeling,” Lawes stated. “Being the only West Indian makes it even more special for me, the region, and my country.”

    CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe praised Lawes’s development, noting his “maturity beyond his years” and ability to execute under pressure against quality opposition. Bascombe emphasized that such performances validate the effectiveness of the region’s youth development programs and signal a promising future for West Indies cricket.

    The West Indies campaign featured several other standout performances, including opener Zachary Carter’s century against South Africa—the team’s only hundred of the tournament—and wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew’s consistent contributions. Shaquan Belle recorded the competition’s best bowling figures (6/40 against South Africa), while Jakeem Pollard demonstrated extraordinary economy with 68.4% dot balls delivered.

    CWI extended commendations to the entire Under 19 squad and support staff for their dedicated efforts throughout the tournament, recognizing their collective contribution to building a solid foundation for the future of Caribbean cricket.