Carib Scope

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  • Cuba celebrates World Day of African and Afro-descendant culture

    Cuba celebrates World Day of African and Afro-descendant culture

    Cuba’s top diplomat has publicly affirmed the nation’s profound cultural and historical connections to Africa, framing the relationship as one of shared heritage and familial bonds. In a statement released on social media platform X, the official characterized Cuban identity as the product of a dynamic fusion of diverse cultures, traditions, and religious practices cultivated over hundreds of years.

    The declaration emphasized that this rich national character stems from a long history of continuous exchange, solidarity, and fraternal ties between the Cuban people and the African continent. “We Cubans feel part of the African continent and children of Africa,” the Foreign Minister stated, underscoring a sense of shared destiny and belonging.

    This recognition coincides with the global observance of World Day of African and Afro-descendant Culture on January 24. The annual celebration, championed by UNESCO, honors the vast and vibrant cultural expressions originating from Africa and its diasporic communities worldwide. The event reinforces the international body’s core mission to advance respect for cultural diversity and human creative expression across the globe.

    This commemoration highlights Africa’s invaluable contribution to world heritage, positioning cultural appreciation as a fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development, fostering mutual understanding, encouraging dialogue, and maintaining global peace.

  • Chinese lantaarnfestival licht op voor Chinees Nieuwjaar

    Chinese lantaarnfestival licht op voor Chinees Nieuwjaar

    The 32nd International Zigong Lantern Festival commenced Friday in China’s southwestern Sichuan province, launching spectacular celebrations ahead of the Chinese New Year. This annual extravaganza showcases the ancient art of illuminated lantern craftsmanship on a monumental scale.

    With the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac beginning on February 17, the festival embodies traditional Lunar New Year elements where lanterns symbolize prosperity and good fortune. Opening night attracted massive crowds admiring over 200 handcrafted lanterns depicting animals, mythological figures, and ancient Chinese scenes.

    Local resident Huang Ye, 32, shared: ‘My parents brought me to the Zigong Lantern Festival almost every year during my childhood. For us Zigong natives, this festival represents an inseparable part of our New Year celebration. Now I continue the tradition by bringing my own child to witness these magnificent displays.’

    The monumental installations required approximately 1,200 workers several weeks to complete. Among the most impressive creations was the 210-meter-long ‘Magical China’ display, inspired by ancient legends and featuring the mythical Kunpeng—a gigantic bird-fish hybrid. Another 180-meter installation titled ‘Legend of Mulan’ portrayed the famous female warrior’s story with a herd of galloping horses nodding to this year’s zodiac sign.

    Artisans employed innovative materials including straw, chili peppers, and recycled medicine bottles to construct these breathtaking luminous artworks, blending traditional techniques with sustainable practices.

  • Urgent Appeal Issued for O-Negative Blood Donations

    Urgent Appeal Issued for O-Negative Blood Donations

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has declared a critical shortage of O-negative blood supplies, triggering an emergency response from health authorities. Medical administrators have mobilized a public donation campaign targeting compatible donors to prevent potential healthcare disruptions.

    In an official communiqué, hospital management outlined the severity of the situation, emphasizing that current reserves have fallen to dangerously inadequate levels. The facility’s Blood Bank division, situated on the first floor of the laboratory building, has extended operational hours from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily to accommodate urgent donations.

    O-negative blood maintains unique clinical significance as the universal donor type, making it indispensable for emergency medicine when patient blood typing isn’t immediately possible. Hematology specialists emphasize that deficits in this particular blood component directly compromise trauma response capabilities, surgical procedures, and critical care interventions.

    The medical center has established direct communication channels for prospective donors, requesting inquiries through telephone number 484-2720. Healthcare professionals underscore that individual contributions possess exponential lifesaving potential, with single donations potentially benefiting multiple recipients across various medical disciplines.

    Hospital authorities have extended gratitude to potential donors while stressing the time-sensitive nature of the shortage. The appeal highlights the community-dependent nature of blood supply chains and the vital role civilian donors play in maintaining healthcare system resilience.

  • Venezuela’s acting President highlights Program for Coexistence

    Venezuela’s acting President highlights Program for Coexistence

    Venezuela’s interim President Rodriguez has inaugurated an ambitious national security initiative, establishing a 100-day timeline to develop a comprehensive peace plan addressing the nation’s political, social, and economic dimensions. The launch ceremony brought together government ministers alongside representatives from academic, political, private enterprise, and social sectors, signaling a collaborative approach to national stability.

    President Rodriguez emphasized the program’s inclusive nature, noting that a “diverse and pluralistic group of Venezuelans” had already contributed substantial ideas toward what she described as “a common destiny.” The initiative will be administratively coordinated by Culture Minister Ernesto Villegas, with Professor Ana Maria San Juan appointed as executive secretary to oversee daily operations.

    A significant component of the peace initiative addresses economic stability, with Rodriguez highlighting that “peace also depends on economic peace.” The government has collected numerous proposals from entrepreneurs and business leaders, which will form an ideas bank to inform the developing National Plan.

    In a parallel confidence-building measure, Rodriguez announced the release of 626 individuals currently deprived of liberty, characterizing this action as part of Venezuela’s ongoing political process while acknowledging that some parties are attempting to manipulate the situation.

    The administration simultaneously conducted a dramatic demonstration as part of its “We Want Them Back” campaign. Thousands of drones illuminated the night sky over Fort Tiuna’s Military Academies in Caracas, projecting images of Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores in a public appeal for the presidential couple’s release.

  • Dominican Author from Grand Bay releases new psychological thriller

    Dominican Author from Grand Bay releases new psychological thriller

    S.E. Fabien, the literary pseudonym of Dominican writer Sarai ‘Erslyn’ Fabien, has launched a compelling new entry into the psychological thriller genre with the publication of “The Killer Knows Us.” Hailing originally from Grand Bay and now residing internationally, Fabien maintains active connections with her Dominican roots and the global diaspora community.

    This character-centric narrative delves into the deteriorating relationship of a couple who discover they are under the meticulous observation of an anonymous entity. The plot masterfully examines contemporary anxieties surrounding obsession, the erosion of trust, and the psychological ramifications of surveillance within personal relationships. Fabien’s approach distinguishes itself through its emphasis on cerebral tension rather than physical violence, creating an atmosphere of palpable realism that mirrors modern digital-age vulnerabilities.

    The novel provocatively challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of intimacy and privacy, exploring how familiarity can be weaponized in disturbing ways. Serving as the inaugural volume in a planned trilogy, “The Killer Knows Us” will be followed by two subsequent installments—”Safe” and “Exposed”—both scheduled for publication before the conclusion of 2026.

    Currently available through Amazon’s global marketplace, the work is accessible in both digital Kindle format and traditional paperback editions, offering readers multiple options to experience this psychologically intense narrative.

  • Cabello: We will never stray from the path of Bolivar and Chavez

    Cabello: We will never stray from the path of Bolivar and Chavez

    Thousands of Venezuelan citizens converged in Caracas under heavy rainfall, staging a massive demonstration to demand the immediate repatriation of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The protestors allege that both figures were abducted by U.S. military forces exactly 21 days prior to the gathering.

    The mobilization, orchestrated by the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), coincided with the 68th anniversary commemoration of the January 23, 1958 civic-military rebellion. Participants assembled at strategic eastern and western points throughout the capital before marching toward O’Leary Square, adjacent to the governmental headquarters at Miraflores Palace.

    During the emotionally charged event, PSUV leader Diosdado Cabello delivered a stirring address reframing the historical significance of the date. He characterized the original 1958 rebellion as “the ultimate betrayal of the Venezuelan people,” alleging that business magnates, political opponents, religious leaders, and imperialist forces conspired to undermine national sovereignty.

    Cabello articulated how this historical narrative shifted with the emergence of Commander Hugo Chávez, who exposed what he described as systemic exploitation of popular movements. The political leader affirmed the crowd’s unwavering commitment to the Bolivarian revolution, declaring that contemporary demonstrations symbolize “absolute loyalty to President Maduro and Cilia Flores” rather than remembrance of past betrayals.

    Emphasizing resilience following the January 3rd incident—described as a devastating blow provoking profound sadness, anger, and frustration—Cabello called for national unity and steadfast dedication to the Chavista political project. He concluded with assurances that external forces would never suppress the will of the Venezuelan people.

  • Ecuador: Warns of “silent dismantling” of state-owned oil company

    Ecuador: Warns of “silent dismantling” of state-owned oil company

    Ecuador’s oil industry is confronting a severe downturn, with official data revealing a significant 8.5% annual decline in crude production for 2025. Total output amounted to 127.4 million barrels, averaging just 349,167 barrels per day. This production slump has been compounded by a parallel decrease in domestic refining capacity, forcing the nation to dramatically increase its reliance on imported fuels. Imports surged by 16.8% year-on-year to 74.3 million barrels, a dependency that analysts warn undermines national energy security and places strain on the economy. The situation is further exacerbated by a drastic 72.97% contraction in public sector investment, with budget execution plummeting to $485.4 million compared to the previous year. The human cost of this crisis has also been severe, with 1,379 workers dismissed, constituting a 13.7% reduction in the industry’s workforce. Adding to these operational and financial concerns, serious legal questions have been raised regarding contracts signed by OCP Ecuador S.A., the state-managed entity overseeing the Heavy Crude Oil Pipeline since its transfer to public ownership on December 1, 2024. Industry groups are now issuing urgent calls for heightened scrutiny from both authorities and the public into the management of the country’s vital energy resources, cautioning that the current trajectory threatens to inflict irreversible damage upon the national oil industry.

  • Chile cancels energy project threatening astronomy

    Chile cancels energy project threatening astronomy

    A major conflict has emerged in Chile between renewable energy ambitions and astronomical research, pitting a green hydrogen initiative against one of the world’s most important astronomical observatories. AES Andes, the Chilean subsidiary of American energy multinational AES Corporation, has faced mounting opposition to its proposed INNA project—a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility planned for the Atacama Desert.

    The project, which entered Chile’s Environmental Impact Assessment System in 2024, has encountered significant regulatory hurdles and widespread objections from both domestic and international stakeholders. The controversy stems from the proposed location just kilometers from the town of Taltal, placing it in immediate proximity to the Paranal Observatory.

    Paranal represents one of the most critical ground-based astronomical facilities globally, housing the renowned Very Large Telescope (VLT) operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The site is also currently constructing the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), projected to become the world’s largest optical/near-infrared telescope upon completion. Scientists anticipate the ELT will revolutionize our understanding of the universe by capturing unprecedented images that could reveal new insights into cosmic history and evolution.

    The Atacama Desert has earned global recognition among astronomers for its exceptional observational conditions, combining high altitude, minimal atmospheric interference, and exceptionally dark skies—attributes that make it uniquely suited for cutting-edge astronomical research.

    Environmental assessors and scientific organizations have raised concerns that the INNA project could severely degrade these pristine conditions through multiple mechanisms: light pollution from facility operations, atmospheric emissions that could affect air clarity, and potential vibration impacts from industrial activity. The conflict highlights the growing challenge of balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of scientifically critical environments.

  • MOH clarifies leprosy myths, misconceptions

    MOH clarifies leprosy myths, misconceptions

    In a decisive move to combat persistent misinformation, Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has launched a public education campaign emphasizing that leprosy is entirely curable and that social stigma represents the primary barrier to its eradication.

    The Ministry’s statement, timed with World Leprosy Day (January 25), highlights how medical advancements have transformed leprosy from a historically feared disease into a manageable condition. Free and effective treatment is readily accessible through dermatology clinics at wellness centers nationwide.

    Observed under the theme “Leprosy is Curable; the Real Challenge is Stigma,” World Leprosy Day 2026 spotlights the disconnect between medical reality and public perception. Health officials acknowledge significant therapeutic progress while noting that misinformation continues to perpetuate fear, silence, and social isolation among affected individuals.

    Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease affecting the skin, nerves, eyes, and respiratory tract, becomes non-transmissible within days of starting treatment. The Ministry stresses that early detection and proper medical intervention prevent permanent disability, enabling patients to maintain normal lives and livelihoods.

    Despite medical certainty, deep-rooted stigma persists through misconceptions about transmission methods, curability, and supernatural associations. These false beliefs frequently delay treatment-seeking behavior and inflict psychological trauma that lingers beyond medical recovery.

    The health authority urges public cooperation in disseminating factual information, demonstrating compassion, and supporting affected community members. Citizens are advised to seek immediate medical consultation upon observing symptoms including pale skin patches with diminished sensation, body nodules, or recurrent burns and ulcers on extremities.

    Notably, the Ministry confirms that preventive treatment is available without charge for close contacts of diagnosed individuals, representing a crucial component of transmission interruption.

    Health officials maintain that leprosy elimination in Saint Lucia is medically achievable, but eliminating stigma demands collective societal effort. The Ministry reaffirms that no individual should face discrimination or exclusion due to a preventable and curable health condition.

  • Shock and Grief in Gray’s Farm After Death of Nikisha Rose

    Shock and Grief in Gray’s Farm After Death of Nikisha Rose

    The close-knit community of Gray’s Farm is reeling from a tragic late-night shooting that claimed the life of Nikisha Rose, a 42-year-old hairdresser known for her vibrant personality and community involvement. The incident occurred on Friday, January 23, at approximately 10:30 p.m. near the G&E Parking Lot in Michael’s Village.

    According to police reports, Rose was traveling in a vehicle with a male companion when an unidentified assailant opened fire on their car. Both occupants sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to Sir Lester Bird Medical Center for emergency treatment. Despite medical efforts, Rose succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at 11:21 p.m. The male victim, also a Gray’s Farm resident, remains hospitalized in stable condition.

    Rose’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the community where she was deeply embedded through both her hairstyling profession and her work with the Schools Meals Programme. Colleagues and friends remember her as perpetually energetic and encouraging, with an ever-present smile that brightened her surroundings. Many described her as the emotional backbone of her social circles, making her loss particularly devastating.

    Local residents have expressed profound grief over the passing of what many called a “hardworking mother” and “valued community member.” The spontaneous outpouring of tributes across social media and community gatherings highlights the significant impact Rose had on those around her.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Police are actively seeking information from the public and have provided contact numbers for both the Criminal Investigations Department (462-3913) and Crimestoppers (800-TIPS). The Police Administration has formally extended condolences to Rose’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.