Carib Scope

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  • Olivier Janssens’ Nevis Project Offers Residents $100 a Month

    Olivier Janssens’ Nevis Project Offers Residents $100 a Month

    A controversial proposal by Belgian cryptocurrency millionaire Olivier Janssens has ignited fierce debate on the Caribbean island of Nevis. Through his ambitious Destiny project, Janssens has offered to pay every Nevis resident $100 monthly conditional upon government approval of his extensive development plans for a 2,400-acre tech-libertarian community.

    The Financial Times reported that this monthly stipend represents a significant increase from the initial offer of US$11 announced in November 2025. The enhanced financial incentive has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents who characterize it as attempted influence peddling rather than genuine community benefit.

    Kelvin Daly, a member of the Nevis Reformation Party, publicly condemned the offer on social media, labeling it a transparent attempt to ‘interfere in the domestic socioeconomic and political affairs of our country.’ Daly has called for authorities to investigate potential violations under the Anti-Corruption Act, alleging the payments constitute bribery to pressure government officials into approving the development.

    The Destiny project seeks authorization under St. Kitts and Nevis’ Special Sustainability Zones framework, legislation enacted in 2025 specifically designed to enable such innovative developments. Beyond the monthly payments, the initiative promises substantial infrastructure investment totaling $50 million for hospitals, health centers, and villas, alongside job creation and profit-sharing arrangements that would allocate 10% to citizens and another 10% to Nevis’ sovereign wealth fund.

    This development reflects a broader trend of cryptocurrency entrepreneurs pursuing autonomous communities. Former Coinbase CTO Balaji Srinivasan recently promoted similar concepts at the Network State Conference in Singapore, advocating for tech enthusiasts to collectively acquire land and establish innovation-friendly jurisdictions—what he termed Silicon Valley’s ‘ultimate exit’ from traditional governance structures. Documentation presented indicated approximately 120 such ‘start-up societies’ currently in development worldwide.

  • Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Hosts Heritage Evening in London Celebrating Culture, History and Commonwealth Connections

    Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Hosts Heritage Evening in London Celebrating Culture, History and Commonwealth Connections

    London’s Antigua and Barbuda High Commission recently hosted a prestigious Heritage Evening, uniting diaspora members, Commonwealth representatives, and distinguished guests in a vibrant celebration of the twin-island nation’s cultural heritage and its enduring relationship with the United Kingdom.

    The event commenced with an energetic steelpan performance by Harry Hughes Steelpan, followed by soulful renditions of both national anthems performed by acclaimed musician Braimah Kanneh-Mason. Reverend Katei Kirby delivered opening prayers, setting a reflective tone for the evening.

    High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill emphasized the profound historical connections between Antigua and Barbuda and the UK in her welcome address, acknowledging the diaspora’s crucial role in maintaining these bonds. Lyndia Bowers, President of the Antigua and Barbuda National Association in London, echoed these sentiments in her greetings to attendees.

    The program featured significant addresses from His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Foreign Minister E.P Chet Greene, both stressing the importance of heritage preservation and diaspora engagement.

    Cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, serving as CHOGM Envoy, and Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo highlighted how cultural exchanges and interpersonal connections continue to strengthen Commonwealth unity. Musical artist Laurent John provided additional entertainment throughout the evening.

    Two particularly noteworthy presentations explored Antigua and Barbuda’s historical legacy. Denize Leadeatte, Director of the National Windrush Museum, examined ‘The Antigua and Barbuda Windrush Story,’ documenting the substantial contributions of Antiguans and Barbudans to British society post-Windrush generation.

    Dr. Gabriella Howell MBE, Director of Historic Preservation at the Heritage Trust Antigua and Barbuda Inc., detailed ‘The Restoration of Government House,’ an ambitious project preserving one of the nation’s most important historical landmarks.

    The High Commission acknowledged the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Office in London for their organizational support. This Heritage Evening formed part of broader engagements connecting diaspora communities and Commonwealth partners during a week of London-based activities.

  • Former Jade Mountain chef debuts on Top Chef

    Former Jade Mountain chef debuts on Top Chef

    The prestigious culinary competition Top Chef returns for its 23rd season with a notable contestant whose professional journey was shaped in the Caribbean. Jonathan Dearden, an accomplished American chef with significant Saint Lucian connections, enters the Bravo television series alongside his identical twin brother Brandon. The siblings compete for the grand prize of $250,000, a prestigious feature in Food & Wine magazine, and additional culinary accolades.

    Dearden’s professional foundation was established during his tenure as Executive Chef at Jade Mountain, an award-winning resort in Soufrière, Saint Lucia, where he worked from 2008 to 2014. This period marked significant recognition for the resort, with Travel + Leisure Magazine naming it the Caribbean’s top resort and third-best globally during his leadership.

    Karolin Troubetzkoy, executive director of Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain resorts, expressed enthusiastic support through social media: “We were thrilled to see Chef Jonathan Dearden, one of our early Executive Chefs at Jade Mountain, competing alongside his twin brother. Jonathan brought enormous creativity, passion, and energy to our kitchens during his time in Saint Lucia, helping shape the vibrant culinary spirit that continues to define our dining experiences.”

    Dearden developed his signature farm-to-table “Jade Cuisine” philosophy during his Caribbean years, utilizing produce from the resort’s organic farm. His career includes notable achievements as a “Chopped” finalist and “Beat Bobby Flay” contestant. Since 2023, he has served as Corporate Chef at KNEAD Hospitality + Design in Washington, DC.

    The chef acknowledges the profound impact of his Saint Lucian experience: “I moved to the Caribbean with the intention of being a Chef de Cuisine, but my promotion to Executive Chef of Jade Mountain catapulted my career. I maintained that position for 18 years before becoming a Corporate Chef.”

    This season marks the second appearance of Saint Lucian culinary talent on Top Chef, following Nina Compton’s runner-up achievement in Season 11 (Top Chef: New Orleans) where she also earned the fan favorite distinction. Compton subsequently established two successful New Orleans restaurants: Compère Lapin (2015) and Bywater American Bistro (2018).

    Top Chef Season 23, filmed across the Carolinas, premiered on March 9th and airs weekly on Mondays at 9:30 PM via Bravo network, with streaming availability through Bravo and Peacock platforms.

  • Sir Vivian Richards Visits Bedford School, Inspiring Students and Strengthening Sporting and Community Ties

    Sir Vivian Richards Visits Bedford School, Inspiring Students and Strengthening Sporting and Community Ties

    Cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, revered as a national hero of Antigua and Barbuda, delivered an inspirational visit to Bedford School in the United Kingdom, creating lasting memories for students and community members alike. The sporting icon’s appearance fostered cross-cultural connections and emphasized the profound values embedded within athletics.

    Upon his arrival, Sir Vivian received an enthusiastic welcome from Senior School Headmaster James Hodgson and Prep School Headmaster Ian Silk. The preliminary discussions set a collaborative tone for the day, highlighting the school’s upcoming cricket tour to Antigua scheduled for October—an event that formed the backdrop for this significant visit.

    The centerpiece of the occasion was an interactive question-and-answer session hosted in the school’s Great Hall by Ian McGowan, Director of Sport, and Gary Steer, Director of Cricket. Students from the cricket team, performance athletes, and pupils across year groups gathered to gain firsthand wisdom from one of the sport’s most illustrious figures. Sir Vivian spoke candidly about discipline, self-belief, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, leaving a powerful impression on all attendees.

    A particularly memorable segment allowed students to obtain autographs, personalizing the experience and creating cherished mementos. The visit concluded with an exclusive reception at the Langham Pavilion, where Sir Vivian engaged with local community leaders, trustees, cricket club representatives, and press members, further strengthening ties between sporting and educational institutions.

    Reflecting on the event, Sir Vivian remarked, ‘I was delighted to share a little of my journey and to encourage the next generation to pursue excellence both on and off the field.’

    The impact was echoed by Zarrell Harding, a young cricketer affiliated with Barbados youth teams, who described the encounter as ‘a proud and unforgettable experience,’ adding that the encouragement from Sir Vivian reinforced his determination to develop his potential.

    This visit was coordinated through a partnership between Ian McGowan and Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, Antigua and Barbuda’s High Commissioner to the UK, with additional support provided by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

  • Group of fifteen head to final Carifta trials in Martinique

    Group of fifteen head to final Carifta trials in Martinique

    Dominica’s athletic delegation is poised for crucial competition as the Dominica Athletics Association confirms a 15-member team will participate in the final CARIFTA Trials this weekend in Martinique. The decisive qualifying event scheduled for March 14-15 represents the ultimate opportunity for athletes to secure their positions for the prestigious 2026 CARIFTA Games.

    The comprehensive delegation features nine pre-qualified athletes alongside experienced coaching and support staff. The technical team includes Team Manager Philip White, Technical Officer Walson Paquette, and national coaches Naby Wallace and Godwin Dorsett. Support personnel comprise Media Officer Judy Larroche and Safeguarding Officer Antoine Lewis, ensuring comprehensive athlete welfare and coverage.

    Qualified athletes set to compete include J’Michael Titre, Keyoni Esprit, Akisha Luke, Kedella Victor, Omari Caesar, Shariah Lewis, Delanie George, Zayden Cornelius, and Kuma John-Baptist. These athletes have already met qualification standards and will use the event as vital preparation for the main games.

    Additional athletes from Sparrows Athletics Club (seven competitors) and Westmar Rangers (two competitors) will also participate, attempting to achieve national qualification standards during this final trial opportunity. The association emphasized the dual nature of the event: serving as competitive preparation for already-qualified athletes while providing a last-chance qualifying platform for those seeking to join Team Dominica’s final contingent.

    The audio release from the athletics association highlighted the strategic importance of these trials in finalizing Dominica’s representation for the regional championship event, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to developing track and field excellence across multiple disciplines.

  • US boosts Guyana Police Force capacity

    US boosts Guyana Police Force capacity

    In a significant move to bolster regional security capabilities, the United States has completed an intensive executive leadership program for senior officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The specialized training, conducted from March 9-12, 2026, at the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) in Florida, represents the latest development in ongoing security cooperation between the two nations.

    The program specifically targeted enhancement of crisis response protocols and command structure effectiveness within the Guyanese law enforcement agency. Eight high-ranking GPF officials engaged in hands-on training alongside MDSO experts, focusing on interagency communication strategies, risk assessment methodologies, and leadership techniques tailored for complex policing scenarios.

    Participants gained practical exposure to advanced law enforcement technology during site visits to MDSO’s Real Time Crime and Communications Center and the Midwest District Station. This immersive experience provided firsthand knowledge of cutting-edge crisis management protocols and technological integration in modern policing.

    This exchange builds upon previous collaborative efforts, including the inaugural GPF-MDSO crisis management training conducted in Georgetown during August 2025. The program received funding through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) framework.

    The CBSI represents a comprehensive U.S. security cooperation program involving Guyana and twelve other Caribbean nations, with strategic objectives including dismantling transnational criminal networks, combating narcotics trafficking, and strengthening regional security partnerships. The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of Guyana’s law enforcement institutions to enhance both national public safety and regional security stability.

  • Cuban president says talks held with the United States amid intense pressure from Trump

    Cuban president says talks held with the United States amid intense pressure from Trump

    In an unprecedented televised address, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has officially confirmed high-level diplomatic discussions between Cuban officials and United States representatives. The announcement marks Havana’s first acknowledgment of bilateral talks previously referenced by former President Donald Trump.

    The discussions were reportedly led by President Díaz-Canel alongside former leader Raúl Castro and key members of Cuba’s Communist Party. While the Cuban delegation was specified, the American participants remain undisclosed. The talks aimed to identify and address critical bilateral issues requiring resolution, with Díaz-Canel characterizing the process as “highly sensitive” and requiring “responsibility and great sensitivity.”

    This diplomatic engagement occurs against a backdrop of severe economic distress in Cuba, exacerbated by what Cuban officials describe as an “energy blockade” imposed by the United States. The situation has reached critical levels with President Díaz-Canel revealing that no fuel shipments have reached the island for three consecutive months, resulting in widespread blackouts and severe fuel shortages.

    The economic pressure intensified following Trump’s actions against Venezuela, which included cutting off Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba and threatening tariffs on other nations supplying crude oil to the island. These measures have compounded existing challenges, creating what the Cuban president acknowledged as “tremendous impact” and “anguish among the population.”

    The healthcare sector has suffered particularly severe consequences, with Díaz-Canel stating that tens of thousands of surgical procedures cannot be performed due to electricity shortages. Despite these challenges, the Cuban government maintains it has been preparing for such circumstances in advance.

    The presence of Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, grandson of Raúl Castro, during the presidential address underscored the significance of these developments within Cuba’s political leadership. This confirmation from Havana provides the first official counterpart to Trump’s previous assertions regarding US-Cuba negotiations.

  • Barbados seeks deeper Japan partnership to boost climate resilience

    Barbados seeks deeper Japan partnership to boost climate resilience

    Barbados is intensifying its collaborative efforts with Japan to reinforce national defenses against climate change through enhanced disaster resilience frameworks and expanded public-private partnerships. Speaking at the inaugural Japan-Barbados Business Mission held at Sandals Royal Conference Centre, Minister of Home Affairs Gregory Nicholls emphasized that true resilience requires proactive adaptation rather than mere recovery systems.

    Minister Nicholls highlighted the longstanding bilateral cooperation that has substantially improved the island’s disaster management capabilities. He specifically referenced the Caribbean Disaster Management Project—a joint initiative between the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)—which executed critical flood mitigation infrastructure in Speightstown while simultaneously strengthening technical capacities within governmental agencies and community disaster response teams.

    The minister articulated how Barbados’ direct experiences with climate-induced hazards including hurricanes, floods, and droughts have underscored the necessity for forward-thinking disaster preparedness strategies. “We must leverage all available expertise and resources to ensure comprehensive safety for all Barbadians,” Nicholls stated, while acknowledging Japan’s global leadership in disaster risk management and water-related resilience solutions.

    Japanese Ambassador Yusuke Miyasaka reinforced Tokyo’s commitment to supporting resilience initiatives throughout Barbados and the wider Caribbean region. He revealed Japan’s $2 million pledge toward constructing the Caribbean Emergency Operations Centre—dubbed a “centre of excellence”—which will be situated adjacent to the Caribbean Logistics Hub. This facility is projected to significantly enhance regional disaster response capabilities.

    Ambassador Miyasaka further announced Japan’s strategy to increase private sector participation in Caribbean resilience projects, noting that geographical distance has historically limited Japanese corporate engagement in the region. The business mission, featuring fifteen Japanese companies specializing in disaster prevention infrastructure, digital technologies, and water management systems, aims to bridge this gap by showcasing cutting-edge technologies and facilitating knowledge exchange. The ambassador expressed optimism that this forum would catalyze stronger bilateral partnerships in climate resilience innovation.

  • Sri Lanka repatrieert stoffelijke resten 84 Iraanse matrozen van Amerikaanse aanval

    Sri Lanka repatrieert stoffelijke resten 84 Iraanse matrozen van Amerikaanse aanval

    Sri Lanka has initiated the repatriation process for the remains of 84 Iranian naval personnel who perished when their frigate was torpedoed by a US submarine in international waters. The incident occurred on March 4th near Sri Lanka’s coastline, approximately nine days prior to the announcement.

    Foreign Ministry spokesperson Thushara Rodrigo confirmed to AFP that the transfer would be conducted via a chartered aircraft dispatched by Iran. The Iranian embassy subsequently verified these arrangements, according to Reuters.

    The sinking of IRIS Dena represents a significant geographical expansion of Middle Eastern conflict into the Indian Ocean, drawing widespread condemnation as a blatant violation of international maritime law.

    Meanwhile, 32 surviving sailors rescued by the Sri Lankan navy remain on the island nation. Rodrigo noted that while the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been consulted regarding wounded personnel, the organization is not involved in the repatriation process.

    In a related development, a second Iranian warship, IRIS Bushehr, entered Sri Lankan territorial waters one day after the sinking. Colombo is currently providing safe harbor for the vessel and its 219 crew members.

    Sri Lankan officials confirm no discussions have yet occurred regarding the repatriation of either the Bushehr’s crew or the surviving Dena sailors, though all personnel will be treated according to Colombo’s treaty obligations.

    Of the 32 hospitalized survivors, 22 have been discharged and are currently housed at a southern air force base, separated from the Bushehr crew. Sri Lanka now hosts 251 Iranian sailors total.

    The Bushehr remains under Sri Lankan naval custody while engineers attempt repairs on one of its reportedly disabled engines.

    A third Iranian vessel has found safe harbor at Kochi port in southern India, with its 183 crew members receiving humanitarian protection from New Delhi. Both South Asian nations cite humanitarian concerns as their primary motivation, fearing additional American attacks against Iranian naval assets.

  • Injury hits CARIFTA star Jady Emmanuel

    Injury hits CARIFTA star Jady Emmanuel

    Saint Lucia’s track and field sensation Jady Emmanuel is battling against the clock to recover from a significant injury ahead of next month’s CARIFTA Games in Grenada. The double CARIFTA sprint champion sustained the injury during the preliminary rounds of the Island Champs at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on March 10.

    The 17-year-old rising star, who has committed to attend the University of Texas starting this September, collapsed during her fourth and final event—the Under-18 girls’ 4x100m relay—while competing for Choiseul Secondary School. After receiving the baton behind the pack, Emmanuel dramatically pulled her team into second position and was challenging for the lead when the injury occurred, forcing Choiseul Secondary to withdraw from the race.

    Earlier in the competition, Emmanuel had demonstrated her exceptional form by posting the top qualifying time in the 200m and the second-fastest time in the 100m events, effortlessly advancing through the preliminary rounds. She had opted not to compete in the 4x400m relay, where her school still managed to qualify for the finals.

    Preliminary medical assessments conducted after the incident have produced uncertain results regarding her leg injury, with recovery estimates ranging from one week to two months. This development has ruled Emmanuel out of the National Junior Championships scheduled for this weekend at Soufriere Stadium and likely concludes her participation in the ongoing Island Champs.

    The athlete made history at last year’s CARIFTA Games in Trinidad & Tobago by winning both the Under-17 girls’ 100m and 200m events—marking Saint Lucia’s first-ever medals in these competitions at this level. This year, she would have been eligible to compete in the Under-20 division, making her potential absence particularly significant for Saint Lucia’s athletic representation.