Carib Scope

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  • U-17 WC Morocco 2026 Qualifications : Our Grenadières defeated by Puerto-Rico [3-1] (video)

    U-17 WC Morocco 2026 Qualifications : Our Grenadières defeated by Puerto-Rico [3-1] (video)

    In a critical qualifying match for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026, Haiti’s young national team, known as the Grenadières, suffered a significant 3-1 setback against Puerto Rico. The match, played at the Costa Rican Football Federation’s Field No. 1 in Alajuela, Costa Rica, has complicated Haiti’s path to the global tournament.

    The Puerto Rican squad, nicknamed the ‘Coqui Warriors,’ established control late in the first half. Striker Mia Colon broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute, slotting home the opening goal. The momentum continued for Puerto Rico just before halftime when Colon was fouled inside the penalty area, resulting in a spot-kick. Giselle Falcon calmly converted the penalty in the 45th minute, doubling the lead.

    Haiti’s captain, Miya Larco, provided a momentary spark of hope for her team. Merely a minute after conceding the second goal, Larco unleashed a powerful right-footed strike from outside the box, finding the net and cutting the deficit to 2-1 before the break.

    Despite a resilient effort in the second half, the Grenadières could not find an equalizer. Puerto Rico sealed their victory in the 67th minute when Michaela Poidomani scored, restoring a two-goal cushion and securing all three points for her team.

    Head Coach Frenoy Baptiste made several tactical substitutions in the second half, bringing on players like Krystel Châtelain and Adjani Kamanzi-Mondestin to alter the game’s dynamics, but the changes were unable to reverse the outcome.

    This result places immense pressure on the Haitian team. With only the group winner and the two best second-place finishers across three groups advancing from the CONCACAF qualifiers, Haiti now sits at the bottom of Group B with zero points from one match. Their upcoming fixture against a dominant United States team, which demolished Bermuda 18-0, is now a must-win encounter. The Grenadières’ final group match will be against Bermuda on March 22.

  • CARPHA convenes regional stakeholders for antimicrobial resistance partnership meeting

    CARPHA convenes regional stakeholders for antimicrobial resistance partnership meeting

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago – The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) convened a landmark regional summit in early March 2026, mobilizing international health organizations to address the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) throughout the Caribbean region. Held at CARPHA’s headquarters, this strategic gathering united key global health partners to coordinate a reinforced defense against one of modern medicine’s most pressing challenges.

    The high-level meeting, orchestrated by the UK Department of Health and Social Care with financial backing from the Fleming Fund, served as a critical juncture for evaluating current progress and aligning future strategies. Participants included senior representatives from the UK Health Security Agency, the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions, and the Pan American Health Organization/WHO, creating a multidisciplinary coalition against AMR.

    CARPHA’s Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar underscored the gravity of the situation, stating: ‘Antimicrobial resistance presents a severe and escalating danger to Caribbean health security. Our collaborative partnerships are essential for building regional capabilities to detect, monitor, and counter AMR through coordinated, sustainable approaches.’

    The technical discussions focused on four pivotal areas: enhancing regional laboratory networks, advancing integrated AMR surveillance systems, developing healthcare workforce competencies, and identifying opportunities for combined technical and financial assistance to member states. These conversations addressed specific regional vulnerabilities including limited laboratory infrastructure, professional staffing shortages, and the transnational spread of drug-resistant infections.

    Looking forward, CARPHA and its partners announced plans to expand regional initiatives through broader laboratory services, improved data exchange protocols, and implementation of the One Health framework that interconnected human, animal, and environmental health sectors. The conclusions from this summit will directly influence future investments under the Fleming Fund and other global health security programs, ensuring sustained advancement toward regional resilience against antimicrobial resistance.

  • PM Skerrit: ‘Nobody’ in the country will stop the completion of the airport

    PM Skerrit: ‘Nobody’ in the country will stop the completion of the airport

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has emphatically declared that Dominica’s long-awaited international airport will reach completion by December 2027, dismissing what he characterizes as deliberate attempts to obstruct the landmark infrastructure project. The announcement came during a recent Town Hall assembly at Newtown Primary School, where Skerrit addressed growing public interest in the development timeline.

    Reflecting on historical context, the Prime Minister noted that multiple administrations since the Frank Baron and E.O. LeBlanc eras had pursued—yet failed to achieve—the construction of an international airport for the Caribbean nation. He specifically referenced former Prime Minister Dame Mary Eugenia Charles’ unsuccessful attempts, acknowledging her determination while emphasizing the project’s historical challenges.

    Skerrit revealed unprecedented financial preparations behind the current initiative, disclosing that his government had systematically saved $5 million monthly toward an International Airport Development Fund. By the time Hurricane Maria struck in 2017, this dedicated account had accumulated approximately $260 million—sufficient funds to fully finance the airport without future debt obligations for Dominican citizens. The catastrophic hurricane necessitated reallocation of these resources toward national recovery efforts.

    The Prime Minister strongly criticized project opponents, suggesting they predominantly comprise retired individuals or citizens with children residing overseas. He asserted that those seeking to impede progress have diminished stakes in Dominica’s long-term development. Currently, over 100 Dominican workers are employed at the construction site, representing tangible economic benefits already emerging from the project.

    Despite operating in what he described as ‘the most difficult period’ for such undertakings, Skerrit remained resolute about the 2027 deadline, positioning the airport as critical infrastructure that would transform Dominica’s connectivity and economic prospects for generations to come.

  • Hon. Randy Baltimore Says He Is ‘Humbled’ by Strong Mandate in St. Philip North

    Hon. Randy Baltimore Says He Is ‘Humbled’ by Strong Mandate in St. Philip North

    Randy Baltimore has achieved a resounding triumph in the St. Philip North by-election, securing a clean sweep across all seven polling divisions. The newly elected representative extended profound gratitude to his constituents, characterizing the victory as a collective accomplishment rather than a personal one.

    In his address to supporters, Baltimore emphasized, “The confidence you have placed in me is truly humbling. This achievement belongs to every supporter, volunteer, and every individual who believed in our shared vision for a stronger constituency.” The politician immediately shifted focus to governance, asserting that the work of development was already underway and would continue without interruption.

    Senior figures from the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) celebrated the outcome as a powerful electoral endorsement. Senator Michael Freeland interpreted the result as evidence of Baltimore’s genuine connection with the electorate, noting the campaign had been “well fought” and the victory “well earned.” Freeland further emphasized the significant responsibilities that accompany the victory, expressing confidence in Baltimore’s capacity to meet these challenges.

    Additional congratulations came from Education Minister Daryll Matthew, who highlighted the candidate’s hard work and commitment as fundamental to his success. Senator Kiz Johnson characterized the win as “emphatic,” suggesting it signals growing momentum within the ABLP. The by-election was necessitated by the retirement of longstanding MP Sir Robin Yearwood, with Baltimore’s performance representing one of the party’s strongest showings in the constituency’s history.

  • Join Us As We Travel “Across Borders”

    Join Us As We Travel “Across Borders”

    Greater Belize Media (GBM) is set to transport viewers on an unprecedented visual journey through Central America with the premiere of its groundbreaking travel series “Across Borders” tonight at 7:30 PM on Channel 5.

    Hosted by the charismatic Sabreena Daly, this five-episode production breaks new ground by showcasing destinations that remain largely unexplored by Belizean travelers despite their geographical proximity. The series represents a significant investment in regional cultural education and entertainment programming.

    The inaugural episode features Daly’s first-ever expedition to Honduras, where she immerses herself in the country’s natural wonders and cultural tapestry. Viewers will witness breathtaking footage of majestic waterfalls, traverse pristine national parks, and explore the vast expanse of Honduras’ largest lake through Daly’s authentic encounters.

    Executive producers describe the series as a bridge-building initiative designed to foster greater regional awareness and appreciation. “Many Belizeans frequently travel to North America or Europe while overlooking the incredible diversity right next door,” explained a GBM spokesperson. “This series reveals the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage that make our neighboring countries must-visit destinations.”

    Beyond traditional television broadcasting, GBM has embraced multi-platform distribution strategies. The series will simultaneously stream on News 5 Live’s Facebook page and Greater Belize Media’s official YouTube channel, ensuring accessibility for digital audiences. Subsequent episodes will air weekly every Tuesday evening in the same primetime slot.

    The production team employed state-of-the-art cinematography techniques to capture the region’s beauty, utilizing drone footage for aerial perspectives and intimate cultural exchanges to highlight local traditions. This technical excellence combined with Daly’s engaging presentation style promises to set a new standard for travel programming in the region.

  • CCJ President proposes international climate injuries compensation fund

    CCJ President proposes international climate injuries compensation fund

    In a significant development in climate justice advocacy, Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) President Winston Anderson has formally proposed the creation of an International Climate Injuries Compensation (ICIC) Fund during the Inter-American Seminar on Climate Emergency and Human Rights in Brasilia, Brazil. The landmark proposal, presented on March 16, 2026, calls for mandatory corporate contributions to address climate-related damages in vulnerable nations.

    President Anderson articulated his vision before the gathering hosted by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and Brazil’s Supreme Court, emphasizing that existing regulatory frameworks fall short of addressing urgent climate realities. While acknowledging the importance of the Inter-American Court’s Advisory Opinion No.32 of 2025, which establishes government obligations to regulate climate-harming corporations, Anderson stressed the necessity of practical implementation mechanisms.

    The proposed ICIC Fund would operate under the ‘Polluter Pays’ principle, requiring multinational corporations exceeding specific greenhouse emission thresholds to contribute financially through their operating states. Drawing inspiration from the International Maritime Organisation’s successful oil pollution compensation model, the fund would possess legal personality enabling affected nations to seek compensation for damages caused by extreme weather events.

    Anderson expressed particular concern about the inadequate capitalization of the existing Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) established under the Paris Agreement. He highlighted the stark disparity between actual damages and available compensation, noting Jamaica’s situation where USD 6-7 billion in hurricane damages contrasts with maximum potential FRLD compensation of merely USD 20 million.

    The initiative, first introduced during Anderson’s keynote address at the CANARI Partners Forum in Barbados this January, represents a growing consensus among vulnerable nations that corporate accountability must translate into tangible financial responsibility for climate impacts.

  • RDU calls on farmers and Grenadians to increase food production

    RDU calls on farmers and Grenadians to increase food production

    The Grenadian government has issued an urgent call to action for agricultural producers nationwide to dramatically scale up domestic food production in response to growing global instability and rising import costs. Dr. Stephen Fletcher, Head of the Rural Development Unit (RDU) within the Ministry of Economic Development, Planning, Blue Economy and Cooperatives, emphasized that achieving food self-sufficiency has become a critical matter of national sovereignty and resilience.

    The comprehensive mobilization strategy targets farmers, fishermen, and livestock producers across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. The initiative focuses on several key pillars: expanding cultivation of staple crops fundamental to the national diet, diversifying agricultural products to reduce import dependency, implementing climate-resilient farming techniques, and developing robust marketing channels including supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants to ensure affordable distribution.

    Dr. Fletcher underscored the existential urgency of the situation, stating that failure to act decisively would leave the nation vulnerable to external shocks and fluctuating global markets. He framed food security as not merely an economic issue but one of national dignity and self-determination.

    The government has committed substantial support through technical assistance, training programs, grant funding, and partnership development aimed at enhancing productivity and strengthening agricultural livelihoods. Simultaneously, the RDU is encouraging households to participate through complementary measures including backyard gardening, bulk purchasing and preservation techniques, energy-efficient cooking methods, and preferential purchasing of local produce.

    The campaign’s overarching message—’Plant Today, Feed Tomorrow’—encapsulates the collective effort required to insulate Grenada from global food price volatility and supply chain disruptions while ensuring all citizens have consistent access to affordable, nutritious food.

  • Govt to expose hidden company owners with new beneficial ownership register

    Govt to expose hidden company owners with new beneficial ownership register

    In a decisive move to enhance financial transparency, the Barbadian government has approved a comprehensive policy to establish a national beneficial ownership registry. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn announced this landmark initiative during his budget presentation, positioning Barbados at the forefront of global efforts against illicit financial activities.

    The registry will specifically target identifying the ultimate human beneficiaries behind corporate entities—those who exercise final control over company assets and profits, regardless of who appears on official documentation as legal owners. This distinction is crucial for piercing through complex corporate veils and shell company arrangements that obscure true ownership.

    Minister Straughn emphasized the critical importance of this transparency mechanism for combating money laundering, tax evasion, and terrorist financing. “Understanding who ultimately controls companies is fundamental to strengthening our regulatory framework and corporate governance standards,” he stated.

    The implementation will occur through a carefully structured three-phase approach. Initial efforts will focus on legislative reforms, including drafting appropriate sanctions, penalties, and provisions for information sharing with international authorities. Subsequently, the government will develop secure digital infrastructure to safeguard sensitive data against cyber threats and unauthorized access.

    A specialized business compliance unit will be established to assist micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises—numbering over 10,000—that lack corporate service providers. The government has set a target of May 2027 for full operationalization of the framework, which will enhance both domestic oversight and international cooperation capabilities.

  • Baby bonus: New grant for twins, triplets, more

    Baby bonus: New grant for twins, triplets, more

    The Barbadian government has unveiled two significant social welfare programs aimed at supporting child-rearing costs and long-term financial security for families. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn announced these initiatives during his budget presentation, marking a substantial investment in the nation’s youth.

    Effective April 1st, families with multiple births will receive monthly cash grants without means testing. The program provides $300 monthly for twins under age five and $600 monthly for triplets or higher-order multiples within the same age bracket. This direct financial assistance is designed to alleviate the substantial costs associated with raising multiple children simultaneously.

    Concurrently, the government is establishing the groundbreaking Barbados Republic Child Wealth Fund, fulfilling an election campaign promise. The fund will provide every child born in Barbados on or after November 30, 2021, with a $5,000 birthright investment. Minister Straughn revealed that $52.1 million has been allocated initially, with anticipated annual costs of $10-12 million based on current birth rates.

    The investment fund will be legally protected and managed by an independent government entity. Resources will be invested in diversified portfolios including real assets, bonds, equities, and other funds with individual beneficiary accounting. Eligibility extends to Barbadian citizens by birth, descendants of Barbadian public officials working abroad, and descendants of ordinarily resident Barbadians.

    Withdrawal conditions require maintaining connections to Barbados, including minimum ten-year residency before age 18 or special status for children of government workers born abroad. Proceeds are specifically designated for education or housing investments within Barbados.

    The enabling legislation is scheduled for introduction later this year, coinciding with significant national anniversaries including the fifth republic anniversary and sixtieth independence anniversary. This comprehensive approach represents one of the Caribbean’s most progressive child welfare initiatives, addressing both immediate financial pressures and long-term economic security.

  • Georgetown Public Hospital asks Court to order removal of street vendors

    Georgetown Public Hospital asks Court to order removal of street vendors

    Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Guyana’s premier healthcare institution, has escalated its ongoing battle against unauthorized street vending by filing a formal legal petition with the High Court on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The hospital seeks judicial intervention to compel Georgetown’s Town Clerk to immediately clear vendors obstructing critical access routes to the medical facility.

    Through legal representation by Attorney Sase Gunraj, GPHC demands the municipal authority enforce its statutory obligations under Guyana’s Municipal and District Councils Act. The application specifically targets food, beverage, and miscellaneous vendors operating mobile trucks, carts, and temporary stalls along New Market, Middle, East, Lamaha, and Thomas Streets—all crucial perimeter roads surrounding the hospital complex.

    CEO Robbie Rambarran’s supporting affidavit outlines severe operational impacts caused by the vendor congestion. Emergency vehicles, medical staff, and patients face significant access challenges due to obstructed ingress and egress points. Additionally, the hospital administration cites serious sanitation concerns, with vendors allegedly leaving substantial waste and debris across the hospital vicinity.

    The court documents reveal a protracted history of failed resolutions, dating back to April 2024. Despite multiple formal communications—including letters sent on April 30, 2024, May 7, 2024, and January 5, 2026—the Mayor and City Council have not implemented permanent solutions. While municipal officials acknowledged the problem in a May 2024 response and expressed intentions for amicable resolution, no substantive action followed.

    Rambarran emphasized that GPHC lacks necessary vendor particulars to initiate individual legal proceedings, making municipal intervention the only viable pathway to restore order. The hospital contends that successful court action would not only benefit medical operations but also uphold public order around one of Guyana’s most critical healthcare infrastructures.