Carib Scope

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  • Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    A critical infrastructure project in Saint Lucia has reached an impasse due to a financial disagreement between the contracted construction firm and the national electricity provider, raising significant safety concerns for northern commuters.

    The Norbert Road rehabilitation project, designed to alleviate traffic congestion on the Sir Julian R Hunte Highway, has advanced to its final phase with construction occurring around existing electricity poles. Rayneau Gajadhar, owner of Rayneau Construction & Industrial Products Ltd., revealed his team proceeded with work after four formal requests for a detailed cost breakdown from Saint Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) were denied. The utility company had provided an estimated quote of $554,878.86 for relocating electrical infrastructure.

    “It’s impossible for us to be paying all those monies out and not know what you’re going to do and what we’re paying for,” Gajadhar stated in a social media video addressing the situation. His company has since installed reflective markers on the poles to enhance nighttime visibility as an interim safety measure.

    LUCELEC Managing Director Gilroy Pultie confirmed in an official statement that the company received the contractor’s request and has been engaged in discussions with both the contractor and overseeing government ministry over the past fortnight. “We have subsequently provided further breakdown of the cost. It is under discussion,” Pultie stated, expressing expectation that the ministry would provide feedback within days.

    The electricity provider defended its pricing methodology, explaining that it employs standard unit rates for materials and labor. Pultie emphasized the company’s responsibility to manage costs prudently to avoid passing unnecessary expenses to consumers through tariff adjustments. “Costs like the relocation of lines associated with roadworks should be treated and passed on to the government, or the agency or the contractor as part of the project,” he asserted.

    The managing director called for more responsible planning of future infrastructure projects, stressing the need for improved coordination among all stakeholders to prevent similar situations where utility infrastructure becomes public hazards.

    Meanwhile, northern residents and daily commuters who regularly use Norbert Road to avoid highway gridlock have expressed growing concerns about safety prioritization. One Bonneterre Gardens resident told local media that the apparent disregard for pedestrian and motorist safety represents “really bad optics for both companies” amidst their financial dispute.

    With approximately 21-25 electrical poles and sections of the distribution network requiring relocation, further delays now appear inevitable for the government’s congestion-reduction initiative.

  • Purple breaks 40-year drought to win Springer Memorial interhouse title

    Purple breaks 40-year drought to win Springer Memorial interhouse title

    In a historic athletic showdown, Purple House emerged victorious at the Dasani Barbados Secondary Schools Athletic Championships (BSSAC), securing their first interhouse sports title in forty years. The thrilling competition, hosted at the Usain Bolt Complex, culminated with Purple amassing 408 points to narrowly defeat Yellow House, which finished second with 380 points. Blue House captured third place with 361.50 points, followed by Green in fourth (340 points) and Red in fifth (263.50 points).

    The event showcased exceptional individual performances, with Purple’s Kanedra Morgan earning the prestigious senior Victrix Ludorum title after accumulating 67 points. Shataniya Straker-Ifill of Red House claimed the junior Victrix Ludorum honor. The title of “fastest girl” went to Yellow House’s Destinee Bruce, who achieved a personal best of 12.95 seconds in the Under-20 Girls’ 100m event. Bruce expressed elation with her performance, noting concerns about her start transformed into a triumphant race that positions her well for CARIFTA Games qualification in her primary hurdle events.

    Springer Memorial Principal Sonja Goodridge praised the event’s organization and competitive atmosphere, highlighting the school’s remarkable legacy of 19 BSSAC girls’ titles, including 14 consecutive victories. Optimistic about securing a twentieth championship this year, Goodridge affirmed the school’s commitment to its motto: “steadfast and motivated, soaring to success.”

    Concurrently, Deighton Griffith Secondary hosted its rescheduled meet, featuring intensely contested 200m races across divisions. Roshae Broome of Blue House delivered a dominant performance in the Under-20 Boys’ 200m, potentially establishing a new record pending official confirmation. Broome, who earlier competed in the 100m and 400m events, aims to achieve qualifying times for the CARIFTA Games in both sprint disciplines. His mother, Aisha Graham, provided enthusiastic support, emphasizing her role as his primary cheerleader despite the demanding schedule.

    At the Usain Bolt Complex, Coleridge and Parry School concluded their athletic championships with Set A (Yellow) claiming top honors with 906 points, followed by Set B (Red) with 872 points and Set C (Blue) with 681 points. Set F (Purple), Set D (Green), and Set E (Orange) completed the standings with 598, 584, and 399 points respectively.

  • Nearly 1 000 tonnes of relief airlifted from Barbados to Jamaica

    Nearly 1 000 tonnes of relief airlifted from Barbados to Jamaica

    The Caribbean Regional Logistics Hub in Barbados has demonstrated its vital role in disaster response, facilitating the rapid delivery of nearly 1,000 metric tonnes of emergency supplies to Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. According to Brian Bogart, Representative and Country Director for the World Food Programme’s Caribbean Multi-Country Office, the hub enabled an unprecedented coordinated response to the most destructive storm in Jamaica’s history.

    The Category 5 hurricane struck the island on October 28, causing widespread destruction across communities from the south coast to Montego Bay, severely damaging housing infrastructure and disrupting access to basic necessities. In response, the Barbados-based hub mobilized 982 metric tonnes of critical supplies—equivalent to 55 shipping containers—within days of impact.

    The consolidated relief effort included contributions from multiple United Nations agencies, international governments, and NGO partners, providing essential shelter materials, water purification systems, sanitation supplies, food provisions, energy equipment, and logistical assets. The strategic positioning of the hub allowed for remarkably efficient coordination, with Bogart revealing that vessel loading operations commenced in Barbados while Hurricane Melissa was still actively affecting Jamaica.

    This multi-partner platform represents a significant advancement in regional disaster response capabilities, leveraging military assets from French and Dutch navies alongside private sector transportation resources. The integrated approach has dramatically reduced traditional lead times that previously required supply lines from distant ports in Panama or Miami.

    The hub’s effectiveness was highlighted during a recent emergency logistics coordination simulation exercise designed to strengthen regional preparedness mechanisms. As climate-related disasters intensify across the Caribbean, the successful response to Hurricane Melissa underscores the critical importance of maintaining strategic logistics infrastructure for future emergency scenarios.

  • Heavy weather: Port operations hit by high waves

    Heavy weather: Port operations hit by high waves

    Significant maritime disruptions have struck the Caribbean as powerful ocean swells continue to batter the region, forcing the complete suspension of operations at Barbados’ primary shipping hub. Since Tuesday, the Port of Bridgetown has been unable to accommodate cargo vessels due to hazardous marine conditions, creating substantial logistical delays and leaving multiple ships stranded offshore.

    Barbados Port Inc. confirmed the operational standstill in an official statement released Thursday, noting that the severe swell conditions represent a regional phenomenon affecting multiple ports across the Caribbean. The situation gained public attention through viral social media footage captured from Trevor’s Way shoreline park, which visually documented the queue of commercial vessels anchored indefinitely off the coast.

    The port authority reported that the deteriorating conditions have already forced operational adjustments, including one vessel that had to abort its berthing attempt on Wednesday morning when conditions within the port became unsafe for continuing operations. Currently, four cargo ships—Tropic Express, CFS Horizon, Seaboard Ocean, and Iremos—remain anchored offshore awaiting clearance. An additional vessel, Orchid Ace, was scheduled for arrival Thursday evening.

    Despite having two vessel operations tentatively planned for Thursday night, port officials emphasized they would prioritize safety over schedule, committing to resume operations only when marine conditions improve to safe levels. The ongoing situation has created a domino effect on supply chains, delaying the critical discharge of imported goods and commodities at the island nation’s primary commercial gateway.

  • Great Barbadian journalist’s last surviving child, is 100

    Great Barbadian journalist’s last surviving child, is 100

    Barbados witnessed a remarkable celebration of longevity as Barbara Joan Wickham-Mitchell, affectionately known as “Mimo”, reached her centennial milestone surrounded by family and dignitaries at her Christ Church residence. The Thursday gathering transformed into a national tribute when President Jeffrey Bostic personally delivered champagne, flowers, and an official birthday card to the celebrated centenarian.

    Demonstrating the sharp cognitive abilities that have defined her later years, Wickham-Mitchell read the presidential message aloud before captivating guests with vivid storytelling and humor. When queried about her century-long journey, she responded with characteristic simplicity: “Great.” The independent centenarian continues to manage her own daily routines, preferring home-based relaxation while maintaining her culinary passion for coconut bread.

    Her life story reflects Barbados’ modern history: raised in Government Hill, she briefly resided in the United States before returning to her homeland during the 1960s. She established the notable Pelican Restaurant on Pelican Island while simultaneously maintaining active roles in both community affairs and the Religious Science Church in Cave Hill, St Michael.

    The Wickham family legacy carries significant historical weight. Her father, Clennell Wickham, served as editor of The Herald newspaper and emerged as a pivotal figure in Barbados’ interwar democratic movement. His political activism forced exile to Grenada following a libel lawsuit concerning his refusal to endorse Walter Bayley’s merchant candidacy. He subsequently edited The West Indian newspaper until his premature death at age 43 in 1938.

    Family tributes highlighted Wickham-Mitchell’s extraordinary resilience and philosophical depth. Nephew Peter Wickham, a prominent political scientist, emphasized her pragmatic spirituality: “She would never debate whether Jesus walked on water but can speak extensively on the virtues God would want to impress upon us.” He recalled her distinctive approach to faith: “One should spend less time praying for a miracle and more time giving thanks that God has provided you with the knowledge to study, learn and work hard to make this miracle happen.”

    Her strength manifested through simultaneous caregiving for multiple family members while operating her business enterprise. Despite advanced age, she maintains impressive independence, navigating stairs with determination that surpasses most contemporaries. Her organizational methodology includes meticulous documentation of everything from meal preparation to social scheduling, consistently advocating that “you should write it down.”

    The centenarian values authentic human connection, preferring face-to-face interactions for their nuanced communication potential. Her family tree includes six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, extending the Wickham legacy that previously saw her aunt Barbara achieve 109 years. Having outlived her husband Anthony Mitchell, she leaves one biological child alongside stepchildren who joined in celebrating a life embodying Barbados’ cultural and historical tapestry.

  • U.S. Calls on Governments to Reject Cuban Medical Missions Citing Forced Labor Abuses

    U.S. Calls on Governments to Reject Cuban Medical Missions Citing Forced Labor Abuses

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The United States has issued a forceful condemnation of Cuba’s overseas medical missions program, categorizing it as a system of forced labor and calling for international accountability. In a statement from the US Embassy in Barbados, American officials declared their commitment to holding Cuban regime officials and foreign government partners responsible for facilitating these practices.

    The US position asserts that foreign governments participating in these medical programs, despite documented human rights abuses, become complicit in the Cuban government’s tactics. According to the statement, these actions directly contribute to the exploitation of Cuban medical workers who serve abroad under questionable conditions.

    The diplomatic communication emphasizes that Caribbean nations have ethical alternatives for recruiting foreign medical professionals to address their healthcare needs. The United States is urging all governments and citizens to reject forced labor schemes and join American efforts to demand greater accountability and respect for fundamental human rights principles in international medical cooperation programs.

    This development represents a significant escalation in the US campaign against Cuba’s medical diplomacy program, which has been operational for decades and has deployed thousands of healthcare professionals worldwide, particularly throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

  • Dodelijk verkeersongeval aan Kwattaweg eist leven van bromfietser

    Dodelijk verkeersongeval aan Kwattaweg eist leven van bromfietser

    A tragic single-vehicle accident has resulted in the death of a scooter rider during the early morning hours along Kwattaweg. The victim, identified as 25-year-old M.R., succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite emergency response efforts.

    Preliminary police investigation indicates that the young man was traveling from Derderijweg toward Henry Fernandesweg when the incident occurred. Near the Kwattamarkt area, authorities suspect excessive speed caused the rider to lose control of his handlebars. The scooter veered off the roadway and collided with tremendous force against an EBS utility pole located in the left shoulder.

    The impact proved immediately fatal for the scooter operator. Paramedics and an emergency physician dispatched to the location determined the injuries were incompatible with life. Medical personnel confirmed death at the scene, unable to provide any life-saving measures due to the severity of the trauma sustained.

    This early morning tragedy marks another sobering reminder of road safety concerns, particularly regarding two-wheeled vehicles and speed management on urban thoroughfares. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the exact contributing factors behind this fatal loss of control incident.

  • PM issues open invitation to Eli Fuller

    PM issues open invitation to Eli Fuller

    In a notable gesture of open governance, the Prime Minister of Barbados has publicly extended an invitation to prominent environmentalist and maritime historian Eli Fuller. The invitation, communicated through official channels, signifies a willingness to engage in direct dialogue on matters of national importance. While the specific agenda remains undisclosed, political analysts suggest the proposed meeting would likely encompass critical environmental policies, coastal conservation efforts, and sustainable development strategies central to the island nation’s future.

    Eli Fuller, renowned for his extensive advocacy work and expertise on Barbados’s marine ecosystems through his company, Atlantis Adventures, has been a vocal commentator on environmental issues. His insights have frequently influenced public discourse on conservation and climate resilience. This overture from the highest level of government is interpreted by observers as a move to foster collaborative partnerships with key civil society figures, integrating grassroots expertise into national policy formulation.

    The development has garnered significant attention across the Caribbean region, viewed as a positive step toward transparent and inclusive governance. It underscores a modern approach to leadership that values engagement with activists and experts outside the traditional political framework. The outcome of this potential dialogue is anticipated with interest, as it could set a precedent for future government-civil society collaboration on pressing environmental and social challenges.

  • Calls grow for ban on Ski and other full-face masks following recent crimes

    Calls grow for ban on Ski and other full-face masks following recent crimes

    A prominent Bolans entrepreneur is advocating for a nationwide prohibition on full-face coverings after surviving a violent armed assault by masked assailants. The business owner, who has chosen to remain anonymous for security reasons, recounted the harrowing incident which occurred last Friday at approximately 11:30 a.m. along the Sir Andy Roberts Highway near Fry’s.

    While refueling his commercial vehicle, the businessman was suddenly confronted by two masked individuals emerging from adjacent vegetation. One assailant brandished a firearm while both wore full-face masks that completely obscured their facial features. In a courageous act of self-defense, the victim hurled stones to create distance between himself and the attackers, prompting the armed assailant to discharge three rounds before both fled back into the surrounding brush.

    The traumatized entrepreneur emphasized that the comprehensive facial concealment provided by the masks rendered identification absolutely impossible, creating what he described as ‘perfect conditions for criminal activity.’ He contends that such face coverings increasingly serve as enablers for violent offenses by providing perpetrators with anonymity and reducing the risk of subsequent identification.

    According to the victim’s account, the suspects appeared to be young, slender-built males. He further noted that similar masked robberies targeting small business operators are becoming increasingly prevalent throughout the region. The businessman issued an urgent plea for collaborative action between government authorities and law enforcement agencies to implement strengthened crime prevention protocols, cautioning that future victims might include elderly citizens or other vulnerable demographics who could suffer more severe consequences.

    Local police authorities have confirmed they are actively investigating the incident while examining broader patterns of masked criminal activity throughout the jurisdiction.

  • 17 Primary Schools to Compete in 42nd National Spellbound Championship

    17 Primary Schools to Compete in 42nd National Spellbound Championship

    The 42nd annual National Spellbound Championship has officially commenced, marking the start of an intensive academic competition that will see 17 primary schools competing for the coveted 2026 national title. Sponsored by State Insurance Company Ltd, the prestigious literacy program launched on Monday as part of its enduring mission to foster academic excellence and language proficiency among young learners.

    This long-standing educational initiative, now entering its fifth decade of operation, brings together primary-level students from across the nation to demonstrate their spelling prowess and linguistic capabilities within a rigorous competitive framework. Education authorities emphasize that the championship serves as a critical platform for developing confidence, instilling discipline, and cultivating a genuine passion for learning among participants.

    Sponsors have reiterated their commitment to supporting educational programs that contribute to national development, noting that investments in literacy initiatives represent investments in the country’s future leadership and intellectual capital. The competition structure will unfold over several weeks of intense academic challenges, culminating in the identification and recognition of this year’s National Spellbound Champion.

    The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries continues to endorse the championship as a cornerstone of its educational development strategy, highlighting the program’s consistent ability to identify and nurture linguistic talent while promoting comprehensive literacy skills among the nation’s youth.