Carib Scope

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  • NTUCB Calls on SSB to Oppose BTL–Smart Acquisition

    NTUCB Calls on SSB to Oppose BTL–Smart Acquisition

    The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a forceful condemnation of Belize Telemedia Limited’s (BTL) planned acquisition of telecommunications provider Speednet (Smart), characterizing the proposed transaction as rash and poorly conceived while raising alarms about potential risks to worker-contributed funds.

    In a strongly worded statement released Monday, the labor organization expressed profound concern over the Social Security Board’s (SSB) conspicuous silence regarding the matter. The NTUCB emphasized that the SSB bears fundamental responsibility for protecting workers’ financial contributions, stating unequivocally that “workers’ money is not a bargaining chip, nor is it a private investment fund for risky deals.”

    While acknowledging support for investments that might enhance the SSB’s fiscal standing, the union stressed that rigorous due diligence and comprehensive stakeholder consultation must precede any such financial commitments. The organization issued a stark warning that “any entity that carelessly assigns workers’ contributions or threatens the economic stability of this country will be held fully accountable.”

    The NTUCB further criticized BTL for insufficient transparency and accountability throughout the acquisition process. The union has formally demanded that the SSB immediately adopt a public position opposing the acquisition until thorough due diligence procedures are satisfactorily completed.

    To amplify their demands, NTUCB representatives confirmed to News Five that they have initiated procedures to obtain a permit for a demonstration scheduled Wednesday at 11 a.m. outside the SSB headquarters in Belize City.

  • CARICOM Highlights Barbuda’s Codrington Lagoon on World Wetlands Day

    CARICOM Highlights Barbuda’s Codrington Lagoon on World Wetlands Day

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) marked World Wetlands Day 2026 by emphasizing the ecological significance of Antigua and Barbuda’s Codrington Lagoon, recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. This designation places the lagoon among 16 protected Ramsar Sites throughout the Caribbean region.

    The annual observance, celebrated globally on February 2nd, carried the thematic focus ‘Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.’ CARICOM’s official statement underscored the vital functions wetlands serve in maintaining biodiversity, enhancing climate resilience, ensuring food security, and providing coastal protection. These ecosystems create essential habitats for marine and avian species while simultaneously supporting sustainable development and local livelihoods.

    Beyond Codrington Lagoon—Antigua and Barbuda’s sole Ramsar-listed site—CARICOM highlighted multiple protected wetlands across member states. These include Inagua National Park in The Bahamas, Graeme Hall Swamp in Barbados, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and Sarstoon Temash National Park in Belize, Levera Wetland in Grenada, and various wetland systems in Jamaica. Saint Lucia’s Mankòtè Mangrove and Savannes Bay, Suriname’s Coppenamemonding Nature Reserve, and several wetland complexes in Trinidad and Tobago complete the regional network of conserved areas.

    CARICOM reiterated its urgent call for enhanced protection, restoration, and sustainable management practices to preserve these critical ecosystems for current and future generations. The organization’s advocacy aligns with global efforts to raise awareness about wetland conservation challenges and opportunities.

  • CHTA Opens Registration for 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua, May 12-15

    CHTA Opens Registration for 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua, May 12-15

    The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has officially launched registration for its highly anticipated 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, scheduled to take place in Antigua from May 12-15. This premier industry event serves as the region’s most significant tourism trade show, bringing together international buyers, hoteliers, tour operators, and destination representatives for strategic business negotiations and partnership development.

    The selection of Antigua as host destination underscores the island’s growing prominence within the Caribbean tourism landscape. The four-day marketplace will feature structured appointment sessions, destination showcases, and networking events designed to foster meaningful business connections across the global travel industry. CHTA executives emphasize that the event plays a crucial role in shaping Caribbean tourism’s future by creating platforms for product innovation and market expansion.

    Industry professionals can now secure their participation through CHTA’s official registration portal, with early registration incentives available for both members and non-members. The association has implemented a streamlined digital process to facilitate attendance planning well in advance, allowing stakeholders to maximize their engagement opportunities. This extended lead time reflects CHTA’s commitment to delivering an exceptionally organized event that addresses the evolving needs of the post-pandemic travel sector.

    The 2026 Marketplace is expected to build upon the success of previous events while introducing new formats for business matching and knowledge exchange. Antigua’s tourism authorities have pledged full support for the event, highlighting their infrastructure capabilities and commitment to sustainable tourism development. CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig noted that the Marketplace represents ‘an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the diversity and resilience of Caribbean tourism while driving economic growth across our member nations.’

  • Nexa-GUT National Primary Schools Games 2026 launch

    Nexa-GUT National Primary Schools Games 2026 launch

    GRENADA – Marking a significant milestone in youth sports development, the Nexa Credit Union and the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) officially inaugurated the Nexa–GUT National Primary Schools Games 2026 on January 28, 2026. This event heralds the third consecutive year of a strategic partnership aimed at fostering youth development, educational excellence, and school pride across the nation.

    The official launch ceremony witnessed a convergence of key stakeholders, including senior management and staff from Nexa Credit Union, GUT executives and members, the Games Director, and promising student athletes. This gathering underscored the widespread institutional support for an initiative that has become integral to the holistic development of Grenada’s primary school students.

    Since its establishment, the games have evolved into a premier national sporting event, celebrated for instilling core values such as teamwork, discipline, self-confidence, and the spirit of healthy competition. The platform offers young athletes unparalleled opportunities to hone their athletic prowess and develop essential life skills for their future professional journeys.

    Retesha Smith-Boyd, General Manager of Nexa Credit Union, articulated the institution’s foundational philosophy during her address. ‘Youth education and development form a cornerstone of our community initiatives. As a cooperative, our mandate is unequivocally ‘People Helping People.’ Our investment is not driven by the prospect of immediate returns but by a steadfast commitment to the long-term sustainability and prosperity of our people—spanning all generations,’ she stated, reaffirming their dedication to community-driven development.

    The Grenada Union of Teachers expressed profound gratitude for Nexa Credit Union’s sustained financial backing. Jude Bartholomew, President General of the GUT, acknowledged the substantial contribution, stating, ‘I wish to extend my deepest appreciation to Nexa Credit Union for their generous investment of $110,000 into this transformative program.’

    As this collaboration enters its third year, both organizations have renewed their shared vision of leveraging sports as a powerful mechanism for youth empowerment, character building, and broader national development.

    The 2026 games are scheduled to commence on February 5, 2026, with preliminary rounds held across various parishes. The sporting calendar is as follows:
    – February 5 & 6: Carriacou & Petite Martinique at Lauriston Mini Stadium
    – February 10: St Andrew at Progress Park
    – February 11: St John at Cuthbert Peter’s Park
    – February 13: St David at La Sagesse Playing Field
    – February 16: St Mark at Alston George Park
    – February 17: St Patrick at Fond Recreational Grounds
    – February 19: St George at Kirani James Athletic Stadium

    The tournament will culminate in a two-day grand finale, set to take place at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium on March 4 and 5, 2026.

    For continuous updates, exclusive highlights, and behind-the-scenes content throughout the Nexa–GUT National Primary School Games 2026, the public is encouraged to follow Nexa Credit Union on their official Facebook and Instagram channels.

  • PRESS RELEASE: Cricket West Indies and apparel partner Macron unveil official playing kits for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

    PRESS RELEASE: Cricket West Indies and apparel partner Macron unveil official playing kits for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially revealed the new playing kit for the Men’s team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, marking the decade anniversary of their historic 2016 global tournament sweep. Developed in collaboration with technical partner Macron, the kit embodies the region’s cricketing legacy and unifying spirit.

    The design prominently features the iconic maroon base with yellow and light-blue accents on the V-neck collar and sleeve cuffs. A striking abstract graphic of palm tree leaves—symbolizing Caribbean identity—adorns the front, representing strength and regional togetherness.

    Rupert Hunter, CWI Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the kit’s significance: “This represents far more than match apparel; it embodies the collective passion and ‘Maroon Spirit’ of 15 Caribbean nations under a single sporting flag. It honors our unmatched cricketing legacy while connecting with our global fanbase.”

    The launch coincides with a special promotional offer: fans purchasing the jersey before the tournament concludes on March 8th will be entered to win one of two prizes—a team-signed jersey or bat from the 2026 squad.

    Gianluca Pavanello, CEO of Macron, noted the partnership’s significance: “Working with West Indies allowed us to bring our vision to elite-level international cricket. Our presence at this World Cup with four national teams confirms Macron as the tournament’s most represented brand.”

    The kit merges heritage elements with contemporary design, technical performance, and sustainability features. Available for purchase through windiescricket.com and macron.com, it will debut during West Indies’ Group C matches against Scotland (February 7th), England (February 11th), Nepal (February 15th), and Italy (February 19th).

    Fans can follow the tournament through ESPN Caribbean and daily updates on Windies’ digital platforms.

  • Belize PM calls for talks to prevent Cuban humanitarian crisis

    Belize PM calls for talks to prevent Cuban humanitarian crisis

    Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño has issued a compelling appeal for immediate diplomatic dialogue to prevent an impending humanitarian crisis in Cuba, where critical petroleum supplies are rapidly diminishing. The Prime Minister’s declaration came during a joint session of Belize’s National Assembly, convened in honor of Guyanese President Irfaan Ali’s state visit.

    Briceño emphasized the urgent need for good faith negotiations to forestall a manufactured humanitarian disaster, stating such an outcome would be neither moral nor lawful. He reaffirmed Belize’s unwavering solidarity with the Cuban people during this period of escalating energy insecurity.

    The current fuel shortage traces its origins to recent geopolitical developments involving Venezuela. The capture and extradition of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by United States military forces has disrupted oil shipments to Cuba, creating a precarious supply situation. Maduro faces trial in New York on charges related to drug trafficking and weapons possession.

    In contrast to the growing pressure from Washington to isolate Cuba, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced her government’s intention to dispatch humanitarian assistance to the island nation this week.

    Meanwhile, Guyana’s position appears increasingly complex. Despite historical benefits from thousands of Cuban scholarships and healthcare personnel, the South American nation has recently strengthened ties with the United States. This strategic realignment includes moves to terminate the Cuban medical brigade program, responding to US concerns that such agreements potentially facilitate human trafficking. Guyana’s foreign policy shift occurs amid ongoing territorial disputes with Venezuela over the Essequibo Region and adjacent Atlantic waters.

  • Guyana President Calls for Deeper Ties with Belize

    Guyana President Calls for Deeper Ties with Belize

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali addressed a joint session of Belize’s Parliament on February 2, 2026, advocating for strengthened bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The presidential appearance at Belize’s recently renovated National Assembly marked a pivotal moment in Caribbean relations, emphasizing mutual respect between sovereign nations.

    President Ali articulated a comprehensive vision for collaboration, highlighting three primary areas of engagement: political coordination, economic partnership, and environmental stewardship. He emphasized the countries’ shared responsibility to strategically monetize their abundant natural resources while ensuring equitable distribution of benefits to their citizens. ‘The world in turn has a responsibility to ensure that economic value is passed on to the peoples of our countries,’ President Ali asserted during his parliamentary address.

    The Guyanese leader identified several pressing challenges requiring joint action, including climate change mitigation, food security enhancement, energy independence, and combating transnational criminal networks. He particularly stressed the necessity of reforming regional trade mechanisms, advocating for the elimination of bureaucratic obstacles and artificial trade barriers that disadvantage local farmers and agricultural systems.

    The two-day presidential visit, which commenced on Sunday, includes high-level dialogues with Belizean officials and culminates in the signing of three bilateral Memoranda of Understanding. These agreements will formalize cooperation in defense coordination, educational exchange programs, and tourism development initiatives, establishing a structured framework for ongoing partnership between the Caribbean nations.

  • Tracy Panton Says BTL–Smart Acquisition is “Corruption at the Highest Level”

    Tracy Panton Says BTL–Smart Acquisition is “Corruption at the Highest Level”

    BELIZE CITY – Senior figures within Belize’s United Democratic Party (UDP) have launched a fierce condemnation of the proposed acquisition of telecommunications provider Speednet (Smart) by state-owned Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), labeling the arrangement as a blatant act of corruption and a financial bailout for private interests.

    During a recent appearance on the ‘Open Your Eyes’ program, UDP Leader Tracy Panton delivered a scathing assessment of the transaction. ‘Regardless of how attractively this proposal is packaged, it represents corruption at the highest level, executed brazenly before the public eye,’ Panton asserted. She projected that the acquisition would impose a substantial financial burden on Belizean taxpayers, estimating costs between $80 and $100 million, while suggesting the primary beneficiaries would be the Briceno family.

    Mesopotamia Area Representative Lee Mark Chang echoed these concerns, accusing BTL of consistently ‘moving the goalposts’ to manufacture public acceptance. Chang highlighted critical transparency deficits, revealing that UDP officials have been denied access to corporate financial records and valuation documentation. ‘We demand full disclosure of the accounting books and concrete financial figures,’ Chang insisted.

    The opposition parliamentarian characterized BTL’s evolving proposal as ‘increasingly sweetened’ to gain approval, while questioning the ethical standing of securing endorsement from within the governing party. Chang advocated for democratic resolution through a national referendum.

    Both politicians raised alarms about potential anti-competitive consequences and market monopoly creation. Panton specifically referenced the competitive threat posed by SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, noting Belize’s technological limitations in matching such advanced infrastructure. ‘This acquisition essentially constitutes a bailout operation designed for private benefit rather than public interest,’ Panton concluded.

    Chang further criticized regulatory oversight mechanisms, describing both the Public Utilities Commission and BTL’s board as ineffectual entities comprised of ‘handpicked’ representatives.

    The UDP leadership defended their recent protest demonstration at BTL headquarters as legitimate ‘good trouble’ and necessary civil disobedience to demand governmental transparency. ‘We remain committed to continuing lawful protests and advocacy efforts to maintain pressure on this administration,’ Panton affirmed.

  • Public urged to be on the lookout for two missing Honda CR-Vs

    Public urged to be on the lookout for two missing Honda CR-Vs

    Law enforcement authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have initiated a public appeal for information regarding two late-model Honda CR-V vehicles that have disappeared under suspicious circumstances. The missing SUVs, bearing official registration numbers R5458 and R5421, were reported to authorities as unlawfully taken.

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has issued specific safety guidelines for citizens who might encounter either vehicle. Officials emphasize that individuals should refrain from approaching the automobiles or attempting to intervene directly. Instead, witnesses are instructed to immediately contact local police authorities or utilize the emergency hotline to report sightings.

    Investigators are pursuing multiple leads in the case and believe public cooperation could prove instrumental in recovering the vehicles and apprehending those responsible. The police department has assured confidentiality for all information providers and encourages anyone with potentially relevant details to come forward, regardless of how insignificant they might seem.

    This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding vehicle security in the Caribbean nation and demonstrates law enforcement’s reliance on community partnerships in criminal investigations. The case remains active with multiple units working to trace the movements of the vehicles prior to their disappearance.

  • Cuban Ambassador to Dominica meets with solidarity group and Cuban graduates

    Cuban Ambassador to Dominica meets with solidarity group and Cuban graduates

    In a significant demonstration of international camaraderie, the Cuban Embassy in Dominica orchestrated a diplomatic gathering on January 29th, uniting Ambassador Miguel Fraga with representatives from the Solidarity Group with Cuba and the Association of Graduates in Cuba. The assembly served as a platform for comprehensive dialogue regarding Cuba’s contemporary socio-economic landscape.

    Ambassador Fraga delivered a thorough exposition of Cuba’s ongoing economic and political difficulties, highlighting the profound consequences of the prolonged economic, commercial, and financial blockade. He articulated how these sanctions have precipitated substantial hardships for the Cuban populace and contributed to the nation’s economic constraints and global marginalization.

    The convocation further illuminated the robust educational partnership between the two nations. Since the initiation of academic exchanges in 1979, more than 400 Dominican scholars have completed advanced studies in Cuba. This academic pipeline has yielded exceptional dividends for Dominica’s public health infrastructure, with over 120 medical professionals returning to enhance domestic healthcare services and national development initiatives.

    The timing of this diplomatic engagement holds particular significance, coinciding with two imminent historic milestones: the 30th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between Dominica and Cuba, and the centennial commemoration of Fidel Castro Ruz’s birth. Attendees deliberated appropriate commemorative activities to honor these occasions and reinforce the nations’ shared historical bonds.

    The proceedings culminated in a mutual reaffirmation of sovereignty, international solidarity, and cooperative partnership. Both parties expressed unwavering commitment to maintaining their bilateral relationship, which remains grounded in mutual respect and enduring friendship despite external pressures and global challenges.