Carib Scope

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  • More than 30,000 flee eastern DR Congo for Burundi—sources

    More than 30,000 flee eastern DR Congo for Burundi—sources

    NAIROBI, Kenya—A severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Central Africa as over 30,000 civilians from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have sought refuge in neighboring Burundi within a single week. This mass exodus was triggered by a major military offensive led by the M23 rebel faction, which is advancing towards the strategic border city of Uvira.

    According to confidential sources within Burundi’s administration who spoke with AFP on Tuesday, the pace of displacement has accelerated dramatically, with more than 8,000 individuals crossing the border daily during the past 48 hours. This alarming figure has been independently verified by a representative from the United Nations refugee agency.

    The current assault marks a significant escalation in the prolonged regional conflict, occurring almost exactly one year after M23 forces captured Goma and Bukavu—the two most important urban centers in eastern DRC. The contested territory, abundant with valuable mineral resources, has been embroiled in violent instability for three decades, with various armed groups vying for control.

    International observers note that the M23 militia receives substantial backing from Rwanda, further complicating diplomatic relations in the region and hampering efforts towards peaceful resolution. The rapid closure of main supply routes and critical infrastructure around Uvira has left civilian populations with minimal options for safety, prompting this sudden cross-border movement.

  • CDB president says corruption is a significant barrier to development

    CDB president says corruption is a significant barrier to development

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – In a powerful statement marking International Anti-Corruption Day, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) President Daniel Best identified systemic corruption as one of the most formidable obstacles to sustainable development across Caribbean nations. The Barbados-based financial institution used the occasion to reinforce its institutional commitment to the foundational principles of effective development: transparency, integrity, and accountability.

    Citing alarming United Nations statistics provided by Secretary-General António Guterres, Best revealed that approximately one trillion US dollars are paid in bribes annually worldwide, with an additional $2.6 trillion stolen through corrupt practices. These astronomical figures represent resources that could otherwise transform living conditions and build prosperous societies, particularly in Caribbean countries already operating within constrained fiscal environments and substantial debt obligations.

    For vulnerable small island states served by the CDB, Best emphasized that resources lost to corruption directly equate to forfeited essential infrastructure, diminished education and healthcare services, and missed economic advancement opportunities. Consequently, the Bank regards anti-corruption not as peripheral concern but as central to its developmental mandate.

    The CDB’s Office of Integrity, Compliance, and Accountability has served as the institutional anchor for governance frameworks throughout the past decade, encompassing ethics, accountability, and compliance mechanisms. Through sustained capacity-building initiatives, including specialized training and knowledge-sharing programs, the Bank has demonstrated regional leadership in promoting anti-corruption practices and robust governance standards.

    This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” aligns directly with CDB’s operational priorities and strategic vision. Recognizing youth development as fundamental to institutional strategy, the Bank is committed to empowering the next generation with values, knowledge, and tools necessary to champion integrity across all sectors. Young Caribbean citizens bring technological fluency, fresh perspectives, and determination to challenge outdated practices that have historically impeded progress.

    By investing in youth-led initiatives and creating platforms for young voices in governance discussions, the CDB aims to foster a generation that will both demand and deliver higher standards of institutional integrity throughout the region.

  • Members of Parliament to receive training on filing statutory declarations

    Members of Parliament to receive training on filing statutory declarations

    In a significant move to bolster governmental transparency, Jamaica’s House of Representatives will conduct mandatory training for all Members of Parliament on Tuesday, December 16th. Speaker Juliet Holness announced the session will commence at 10:00 AM in the parliamentary chamber, following collaborative discussions with the Integrity Commission.

    The comprehensive training initiative aims to provide detailed guidance for completing statutory financial declarations, which all parliamentarians must submit by the statutory deadline of December 31st, 2025. Holness emphasized that the program is designed to strengthen compliance mechanisms and ensure every representative is thoroughly prepared to fulfill their legal obligations accurately.

    ‘This session will provide essential guidance for the proper completion of statutory declarations due December 31st,’ Holness stated. ‘This initiative supports transparency, strengthens compliance, and ensures all members are fully equipped to meet the requirements set before us.’

    The training assumes particular importance for first-term parliamentarians who may lack previous experience with the declaration process. However, the Speaker noted that even seasoned legislators would benefit from refreshed guidance, providing ‘greater certainty regarding how we complete these declarations and conduct our reporting.’

    Statutory declarations serve as critical anti-corruption instruments, requiring detailed disclosure of assets, income, liabilities, and financial interests. The Integrity Commission has consistently advocated for enhanced compliance and more precise reporting from public officials in recent years.

    This training initiative emerges amid heightened public scrutiny of political accountability mechanisms across the Caribbean region. Recent corruption allegations have intensified demands for stronger oversight of elected officials, making the parliamentary session particularly timely. Holness concluded that Parliament must ‘lead by example’ in demonstrating commitment to ethical governance and financial transparency.

  • Kenyan troops arrive in Haiti

    Kenyan troops arrive in Haiti

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haiti’s transitional leadership has formally received the fifth deployment of Kenyan specialized police personnel, marking a significant reinforcement of the multinational security initiative combating gang violence in the Caribbean nation. Interim President Laurent Saint-Cyr personally welcomed the 230-strong contingent at Toussaint Louverture International Airport on Monday, signaling the growing international cooperation against organized criminal elements seeking to destabilize the country.

    The arrival ceremony witnessed high-level participation from both Haitian and international representatives. Kenya’s delegation included Deputy National Security Advisor Joseph Boinett and Principal Deputy Inspector General James Kamau. The Haitian side featured Armed Forces Commander Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier and Acting Police Director Vladimir Paraison, alongside diplomatic officials from Canada, France, and Kenya’s Consul General Noor Gabow.

    This deployment occurs within the framework of the United Nations-approved Gang Repression Force (FRG), which received Security Council authorization in September. The international security contingent is projected to eventually reach 5,500 military and police personnel from multiple nations. The mission’s operational mandate encompasses gang dismantlement operations, securing humanitarian corridors, and enhancing local law enforcement capabilities through intelligence-driven missions and arrest authorities.

    The rotation coincided with the departure of 100 Kenyan officers concluding their service term. President Saint-Cyr acknowledged their contributions while assuring continued coordination between Haitian authorities and international forces. FRG Commander Godfrey Otunge emphasized operational improvements based on previous mission experiences, committing to actions aligned with Haiti’s national interests.

    Kenyan representatives reiterated their nation’s commitment to Haitian stability, with Boinett conveying President William Ruto’s solidarity message: ‘Kenya will stand with the Haitian people to guarantee peace and stability during this transitional phase.’ The newly arrived officers join existing contingents from Guatemala, El Salvador, the Bahamas, and Jamaica, expanding the international security presence at a critical juncture in Haiti’s security landscape.

  • Angostura Chill upsizes for the holidays

    Angostura Chill upsizes for the holidays

    In a strategic move to capitalize on holiday season demand, Angostura Chill has launched oversized 750ml glass bottles of its premium non-alcoholic beverages. Dubbed the ‘Big Chill’ collection, these multi-serve formats debut in two distinctive flavors: Sorrel and Bitters alongside Pear and Bitters, specifically designed to enhance Christmas gatherings and traditional celebrations throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

    The expansion represents a significant innovation in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, leveraging Angostura’s globally recognized aromatic bitters to create uniquely flavored carbonated soft drinks. Acting CEO Ian Forbes emphasized this launch establishes “a new benchmark for festive refreshment” while demonstrating the company’s commitment to consumer-driven innovation within the bitters-based beverage category.

    Angostura Chill’s product range now encompasses five flavor profiles, including Lemon Lime and Bitters, Blood Orange and Bitters, and Ginger and Bitters. These are available across multiple packaging formats—both cans and glass bottles—distributed nationally through retail networks and six dedicated Angostura Solera Wines and Spirits locations.

    The brand’s Caribbean expansion continues strategically, with exports reaching CARICOM markets including Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, Antigua, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts. Caribbean Bottlers maintains exclusive distribution rights within Trinidad and Tobago, while the company strengthens its regional footprint in the non-alcoholic beverage segment.

    Consumers can acquire the new Big Chill bottles at key retail locations including M6 Plaza in Chaguanas, Albion Energy Plaza in Port of Spain, East Gates Mall in Trincity, and Angostura’s Laventille headquarters. The beverages are designed for versatile consumption—straight from the bottle, over ice, or as cocktail-style garnished refreshments—suitable for diverse social occasions.

  • Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has escalated its disaster response efforts with a substantial financial injection to support small enterprises devastated by Hurricane Melissa last October. Cabinet officials have sanctioned an additional J$42 million in recovery funding, specifically targeting commercial rehabilitation in the hardest-hit parishes.

    Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, addressed the Senate last Friday regarding the comprehensive support package. The allocation will prioritize structural renovations and infrastructure improvements across multiple regions including Middle Quarters in St. Elizabeth, alongside targeted areas in St. James, Trelawny, and Hanover—all severely affected by the hurricane’s path.

    This latest financial commitment supplements the initial J$20 million approved on November 10th, which successfully restored 44 retail establishments at Border, St. Elizabeth. Those earlier interventions included concrete foundation reinforcement, hurricane-resistant roof strapping systems, and flood prevention infrastructure featuring boulder-and-concrete revetments behind commercial properties.

    The current phase expands restoration efforts to include modernized customer amenities such as upgraded kitchens, seating areas, and sanitary facilities. Simultaneously, the ministry is addressing power infrastructure vulnerabilities through emergency generator distribution. Through transparent tender processes, 15 generators have already been procured with an additional 25 units in the acquisition pipeline.

    Minister Hill detailed the strategic deployment of 11 gasoline generators throughout South St. James, enabling businesses without refrigeration to resume perishable goods sales amid ongoing power disruptions. This temporary energy solution supports community commerce until Jamaica Public Service Company restores permanent electricity infrastructure.

    Comprehensive damage assessments conducted between November 10 and December 1, 2025, identified 1,293 businesses requiring intervention. Notable damage concentrations occurred in Accompong Maroon village where 25 enterprises necessitated repairs, with wooden structures experiencing complete destruction and concrete buildings sustaining substantial roof damage. While some shops maintain partial operations, the ministry confirms ongoing generator installations will address persistent power reliability challenges.

  • Official funeral for Jimmy Cliff to held on December 17

    Official funeral for Jimmy Cliff to held on December 17

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican government will hold an official state funeral for the late reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff on Wednesday, December 17, a ceremony befitting his monumental status in the nation’s cultural history. The service is scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m. at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

    The formal announcement was made by Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, who emphasized the government’s decision to honor Cliff was a direct recognition of his “immense contribution to Jamaican Culture and Entertainment.” The arrangements are being meticulously coordinated by a collaborative effort involving the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Culture, and the family of the late icon.

    Born James Chambers in 1944, Jimmy Cliff achieved global acclaim as a foundational figure in popularizing reggae music. His passing on November 24, 2025, at the age of 81, prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and dignitaries worldwide.

    Minister Grange stated that the memorial service will serve as a national platform for the country to collectively “bid farewell to an outstanding son of Jamaica; an icon.” In a poignant adherence to the artist’s own desires, the ceremony will forego traditional eulogies in favor of a celebration through the art forms he championed: exclusively featuring spoken word tributes, dance performances, and musical renditions.

  • NSWMA expresses condolences after nine-year-old mowed down by garbage truck

    NSWMA expresses condolences after nine-year-old mowed down by garbage truck

    The Jamaican community of Mandeville, Manchester, was plunged into mourning on Tuesday following a devastating incident that resulted in the death of a young student. Amoya Moore, a nine-year-old girl, was tragically killed while walking to school after being struck by a garbage collection vehicle.

    The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) issued an official statement confirming its involvement in the heartbreaking accident that occurred at approximately 7:00 am along Bonitto Crescent. According to preliminary reports, the child was walking downhill from her residence when one of the authority’s compactor trucks, operated by SPM Waste Management Limited, collided with her.

    Initial accounts indicate the vehicle dragged the young victim several meters before coming to a complete stop. Law enforcement officials immediately responded to the scene and have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

    The NSWMA expressed profound grief over the accident, stating: “Our hearts are with the family affected by this unimaginable loss, and we extend our deepest condolences.” The authority acknowledged that specific details remained limited during the initial phase of the police investigation but pledged full cooperation with the ongoing procedural examination.

    The incident has raised serious concerns about road safety measures in school zones and the operational protocols for municipal service vehicles during peak morning hours when children commute to educational institutions.

  • Jamaica’s Zolotarova wins bronze at 2025 Bolivarian Games

    Jamaica’s Zolotarova wins bronze at 2025 Bolivarian Games

    Jamaican martial artist Valentyna Zolotarova has claimed the bronze medal in the women’s 55kg kumite division at the 2025 Bolivarian Games, currently underway in Lima, Peru. Her podium finish marks another significant achievement in Jamaica’s emerging presence in international karate competitions.

    Zolotarova’s path to bronze demonstrated remarkable resilience following a narrow 15-17 defeat to Peruvian hometown favorite Sofia Del Pilar Gomez Fuertes during the round robin stage. The Jamaican athlete strategically regrouped to secure a decisive 4-2 victory against Bolivia’s Luz Marlhin Roca and fought to a draw with El Salvador’s Hazel Sameidy Ramos Flores.

    In the medal rounds, Zolotarova delivered a dominant performance against Chile’s Llanka Soraya Valdiva Soto, overwhelming her opponent with a commanding 9-1 scoreline. This victory secured her third-place position in the final standings, with gold medal honors going to Peru’s Gomez Fuertes and silver awarded to Venezuela’s Barbara Alexandra Perez Silva.

    This accomplishment continues Zolotarova’s trailblazing career for Jamaican karate. In 2022, she made history by winning Jamaica’s first-ever women’s karate medal at the Commonwealth Karate Championships in Birmingham, England, where she also took bronze in the Under-55kg category.

  • Hosein calls for premarital counselling amid rise in domestic violence

    Hosein calls for premarital counselling amid rise in domestic violence

    In a significant address to newly licensed marriage officers, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein has called for mandatory premarital counseling as a crucial measure against domestic violence. The minister delivered this urgent message during a licensing ceremony at Stollmeyer’s Castle in Port of Spain on December 8, where over thirty multi-faith marriage officers received their credentials.

    Minister Hosein emphasized that while love forms the universal foundation of marriage across all religious traditions, couples must be properly prepared for the legal and social responsibilities that accompany matrimony. “Every religion teaches one universal principle: love,” Hosein stated. “But living in love is also a legal process, and that is where my ministry plays a critical role.”

    The minister expressed particular concern about the troubling persistence of domestic violence, urging marriage officers to view premarital counseling as essential preparation rather than optional formality. He reminded attendees of their sacred duty to guide couples responsibly, stating this responsibility “must be exercised with care and integrity.”

    Hosein simultaneously announced sweeping reforms to eliminate bureaucratic delays that have long plagued the marriage licensing system. He revealed discovering countless neglected applications upon taking office in April, blaming inter-agency conflicts and outdated paper-based systems for the inefficiencies. “I am absolutely fed up with the bureaucracy,” Hosein declared. “For far too long, red tape has imposed significant burdens on citizens and religious bodies.”

    Registrar General Karen Bridgewater endorsed the minister’s reforms, praising his “common-sense approach” to consolidating previously scattered responsibilities. She noted that the restructuring has already eliminated longstanding bottlenecks and improved systemic efficiency. Bridgewater further emphasized the officers’ dual role as both solemnizers of marriages and strengtheners of the national social fabric, describing marriage as “the foundation of family life” and families as “the core upon which our nation is built.”

    While acknowledging that numerous applications remain pending, Hosein characterized the December 8 ceremony as symbolic progress toward a more efficient and responsible marriage licensing system. The minister concluded by urging officers to promote a culture that “spreads love rather than hate” throughout Trinidad and Tobago.