Carib Scope

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  • Grenada to host Connected Caribbean Summit 2025

    Grenada to host Connected Caribbean Summit 2025

    Grenada will serve as the host nation for the pivotal Connected Caribbean Summit 2025 (CCS2025), scheduled from December 1-5 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort in Grand Anse. This high-level gathering will bring together over 200 senior leaders from Caribbean nations and the international community under the unifying theme “Catalysing Caribbean Transformation.

    The summit represents a decisive shift from conventional conferences, positioning itself as an action-oriented working session dedicated to accelerating tangible regional progress. Core focus areas include economic resilience, digital innovation, justice system reform, governance strengthening, educational modernization, and financial inclusion—all identified as critical enablers for sustainable development and inclusive growth throughout the Caribbean region.

    CCS2025 will convene an unprecedented assembly of regional power brokers including heads of government, chief justices, utility regulators, corporate CEOs, international investors, development partners, and civil society representatives. The explicit objective is to transcend dialogue and initiate concrete implementation strategies across three priority areas: scaling financial investment and inclusion mechanisms, addressing escalating crime and security challenges, and enhancing digital and climate resilience capabilities.

    The summit architecture features several innovative components:

    The CCS Leadership Alliance will facilitate closed-door and plenary sessions among government leaders and regional institutions to coordinate action on shared development objectives.

    A dedicated Justice Forum will spotlight comprehensive approaches to modernizing judicial organizations, improving operational efficiency, and expanding citizen access to legal services.

    CCS MasterClasses will deliver high-level instruction on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation led by international and regional experts specifically tailored for senior executives.

    The NextGen Forum will create a unique platform for Caribbean youth to engage directly with regional leaders and gain exposure to emerging career opportunities.

    An Innovation Showcase will exhibit Grenadian and regional technological solutions addressing Caribbean-specific challenges.

    The program will culminate in a Cultural Gala hosted by the Grenadian government, highlighting national culture and investment potential while providing curated networking opportunities.

    Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell emphasized Grenada’s commitment to regional cooperation through hosting this event, stating: “We look forward to welcoming leaders, experts and investors to our shores to work with us on practical solutions that benefit our citizens and our region.”

    Bevil Wooding, CCS2025 convener and Executive Director of the Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions, reinforced the action-focused nature of the summit: “We are convening the leaders and institutions that have both the responsibility and the authority to act—so that ideas discussed in Grenada swiftly translate into concrete programmes, partnerships and investments across the Caribbean.”

    The summit will feature global broadcasting capabilities and a dedicated media center to facilitate press briefings, interviews, and real-time coverage. Media organizations seeking accreditation or interview arrangements are directed to contact the CCS Secretariat, with additional information available at connectedcaribbean.org.

  • Extended RFP: External Audit of the Directorate of ECTEL

    Extended RFP: External Audit of the Directorate of ECTEL

    The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) has officially announced a significant extension to the submission deadline for its Request for Proposals (RFP) concerning external audit services for its Directorate. Originally set for November 24, 2025, the new deadline now stands at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025.

    This strategic decision follows substantial market feedback indicating strong interest from potential bidders who requested additional preparation time for their comprehensive proposals. The RFP, formally designated as 2025/RF/03, seeks qualified auditing firms to conduct thorough external examination of ECTEL’s operations based in Saint Lucia.

    All proposal submissions must be directed to the attention of the Managing Director at ECTEL’s headquarters located at Level 5, Baywalk, P O Box BW395, Gros Islet, LC01 601, Saint Lucia. Prospective bidders may also submit via email to procurement@ectel.int or contact the organization directly at +1 (758) 458-1701 for additional clarification.

    ECTEL, as the regulatory body overseeing telecommunications across Eastern Caribbean member states, emphasizes the importance of transparent financial oversight through this auditing process. The extension demonstrates the organization’s commitment to ensuring broad participation and competitive bidding from qualified audit firms capable of meeting the rigorous standards required for this regional telecommunications authority.

  • Media Relations Specialist Jamilla Kirwan Appointed New Independent Senator

    Media Relations Specialist Jamilla Kirwan Appointed New Independent Senator

    Jamilla Kirwan, a seasoned media relations specialist, is poised to take on a new role as Antigua and Barbuda’s independent senator. The swearing-in ceremony, presided over by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, will be held at Government House this morning. This appointment marks a significant moment as Kirwan steps into the Upper House, restoring the Senate to its full capacity of 17 members. Her selection follows the resignation of Kiz Johnson, who stepped down to pursue the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s nomination for the St Phillip’s South constituency. Kirwan’s extensive background in communications and public engagement is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to legislative proceedings. Government officials have emphasized that her appointment ensures stability and continuity as the Senate prepares for its upcoming parliamentary agenda.

  • Villa Polyclinic Dental Clinic Announces New Contact Number for Public Inquiries

    Villa Polyclinic Dental Clinic Announces New Contact Number for Public Inquiries

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs has announced a significant update for the public regarding the Dental Clinic at the Villa Polyclinic. Effective immediately, the clinic has been assigned a new telephone number to streamline appointment scheduling and general inquiries. Patients and community members can now reach the clinic directly at 729-2292 for all dental service-related communications. This change aims to improve accessibility and efficiency in patient care. The Ministry urges all individuals to update their contact records with the new number to ensure seamless communication with the clinic. This update reflects the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare services and fostering better patient engagement.

  • Local govt ministry upgrade works outside Stabroek Market dislocate bus parks, truckers

    Local govt ministry upgrade works outside Stabroek Market dislocate bus parks, truckers

    The commencement of construction for a concrete recreational platform outside Stabroek Market has caused significant disruptions to local vendors and vehicular parking in the area. The project, initiated by the Local Government Ministry, involves the erection of a plywood wall enclosing a large section of the market’s frontage. This has forced phone card and beverage vendors, as well as bus operators on the Lodge, Guyhoc, and South Ruimveldt routes, to seek alternative arrangements. Delivery trucks, which typically supply vendors until 8 a.m., were redirected to the taxi parking area outside Demico, though police indicated this was only a temporary solution. Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand acknowledged the contractor’s failure to effectively communicate with those affected but assured that there are no immediate plans to relocate street vendors. The project, expected to last up to two weeks, aims to construct a raised stage with surrounding pavement to accommodate vendors. While only two vendors are temporarily displaced, the broader impact includes increased traffic congestion, prompting some truckers to suggest delaying the project until after the Christmas season. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to upgrade Georgetown, with Minister Manickchand emphasizing that change often comes with resistance.

  • Major boost for farming communities in Grenada

    Major boost for farming communities in Grenada

    In a significant move to bolster climate-resilient agriculture, the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) has delivered a substantial shipment of advanced farming equipment to Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, Forestry and Marine Resources. The consignment, valued at over US$114,000, arrived in a 40-foot container containing critical resources for sustainable farming practices.

    The comprehensive equipment package includes state-of-the-art drip irrigation systems, robust shade house structures measuring 9m x 32m (576 m²), and solar-powered pumping units complete with solar panels and suction piping. These technologies are specifically designed to mitigate heat stress, protect crops from extreme weather conditions, and enable irrigation through renewable, off-grid energy sources.

    Project Manager Trevor Thompson formally presented the equipment to Allison Haynes, National Focal Point and Chief Agronomist within the Ministry. This initiative forms part of the broader Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) multicountry soil management program under the SOILCARE Project’s first phase, focusing on Integrated Landscape Restoration and Climate Resilient food systems.

    Financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) with implementation support from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), this investment specifically targets enhanced land and water management across key farming communities in Chambord, St Patrick, Belair, and Dumfries. The strategic distribution plan allocates irrigation equipment to Chambord, climate-resilient shade house structures to Dumfries, and additional support for the Belair Propagation Facility through the Carriacou Integrated Landscape Management Project.

    Thompson emphasized the urgency of this intervention, noting that “Chambord, along with Carriacou, was severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl last year. These areas continue to face severe land degradation. We are working hand-in-hand with national partners to ensure farmers have the tools, technologies, and support needed to adapt, thrive, secure their livelihoods, and achieve land degradation neutrality.”

    Haynes expressed the Ministry’s appreciation, stating that the support would significantly help farmers and government institutions become more productive while restoring landscapes affected by degradation. The equipment will also facilitate nursery development and restoration activities at the Government Estate Nursery.

    Headquartered in Grenada, PISLM reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting Caribbean farmers in sustainable land and soil management, enhancing climate-smart production, and reducing vulnerability to drought and extreme weather events across the region.

  • BARNUFO improving operational efficiency with UNDP support

    BARNUFO improving operational efficiency with UNDP support

    The Barbados National Union of Fisherfolk Organisations (BARNUFO) has significantly bolstered its operational capabilities following the handover of essential office furniture and equipment by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on World Fisheries Day, November 21. This initiative is a key component of the Barbados Coastal Fisheries Resilience (BCFR) Project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in collaboration with the Barbados Fisheries Division. The initial delivery included furniture, audiovisual equipment, and other office supplies, with more items expected in the coming weeks. The handover ceremony took place at BARNUFO’s headquarters in Pelican House, Bridgetown, attended by representatives from BARNUFO, the Japanese Embassy, the Barbados Fisheries Division, and UNDP. BARNUFO President Vernel Nicholls expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing the importance of these resources in creating a conducive work environment and enhancing training programs for fisherfolk. She highlighted the need for sustainable fishing practices and industry management, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. UNDP Resident Representative Limya Eltayeb underscored the organization’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive meaningful impact, while Tia Headley from the Japanese Embassy reiterated Japan’s dedication to supporting the Barbadian fishing community through resilience-building initiatives. Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox, Chief Fisheries Officer, praised the BCFR project for its efforts to strengthen the sector’s climate resilience and capacity. BARNUFO, representing over 8,800 individuals in the fisheries value chain, continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the industry’s sustainability and preparedness for future challenges.

  • The UWI serves up a local alternative to traditional Christmas ham

    The UWI serves up a local alternative to traditional Christmas ham

    Barbados is set to revolutionize its festive cuisine with a groundbreaking local product: chicken ham made from retired egg-laying hens. Traditionally, these hens, which complete their productive cycle annually, are sold for as little as one dollar per pound due to their tough meat, often ending up as low-value pet food. However, students from the Faculty of Science and Technology’s Minor in Food Science at The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus have transformed this overlooked resource into a gourmet delicacy.

  • Drama Peaks as Romeo Santos Joins the Live Finale of ‘La Casa de Alofoke’ Season 2

    Drama Peaks as Romeo Santos Joins the Live Finale of ‘La Casa de Alofoke’ Season 2

    The entertainment landscape in the Dominican Republic is set for an unprecedented convergence as international bachata sensation Romeo Santos arrives in Santo Domingo to participate in the season finale of La Casa de Alofoke 2. The artist’s surprise involvement, confirmed through social media by producer Santiago Matías (Alofoke), has generated massive anticipation for what promises to be a landmark moment in Caribbean entertainment.

    Santos’ arrival via private jet represents a strategic masterstroke that elevates the reality show’s prestige to unprecedented levels. As one of Latin music’s most influential figures, his participation bridges the worlds of global music stardom and digital-era reality television, creating a cultural phenomenon that transcends traditional entertainment boundaries.

    The timing coincides perfectly with Santos’ ongoing promotional campaign for “Better Late Than Never,” his collaborative album with Prince Royce. This synergy between his musical endeavors and the country’s most talked-about reality program creates a powerful platform for cross-promotion and audience engagement.

    Industry analysts suggest multiple potential scenarios for Santos’ involvement, ranging from live performances to special interactions with finalists. Such appearances would transform the finale from mere entertainment into a significant cultural event, potentially setting viewership records for Dominican digital programming.

    La Casa de Alofoke 2 has dominated social media conversations since its October 20 premiere, consistently generating viral moments and trending topics. The season has distinguished itself through diverse casting, intense emotional dynamics, unexpected alliances, and dramatic eliminations that have captivated audiences across digital platforms.

    The inclusion of Santos carries profound symbolic significance beyond entertainment value. As an emblem of Dominican global success, his presence reinforces national cultural pride while attracting international attention to the country’s evolving digital entertainment landscape.

    For the remaining contestants, sharing the spotlight with a superstar of Santos’ caliber represents an extraordinary career opportunity. The exposure could dramatically amplify their public profiles and potentially open doors to entertainment industry opportunities that extend far beyond the competition.

    The finale culminates 38 days of intense competition characterized by public voting, strategic challenges, and constant viewer scrutiny. Producers have promised an event filled with emotional retrospectives, surprise elements, and unforgettable moments that will honor the season’s journey.

    This collaboration signals a new era for Dominican entertainment, demonstrating that digital-native productions can not only compete with traditional television but can attract world-class talent and generate cultural moments that resonate across demographics and borders.

  • BookFusion app launches in AI, digital literacy boost

    BookFusion app launches in AI, digital literacy boost

    The Ministry of Educational Transformation unveiled BookFusion, a groundbreaking digital reading application, on Wednesday. This innovative platform is designed to foster collaboration among students, teachers, and parents while enhancing technological skills and cognitive development in both home and school settings. The launch coincides with the ministry’s initiative to distribute laptops to first-form students, preloaded with security protocols and educational resources. BookFusion, a key component of the Skills for the Future 2 programme, integrates learning across classroom and home environments, offering a seamless educational experience. Asha-Akua Stoute, a communications specialist with the programme, emphasized the app’s ability to facilitate parental involvement, teacher resource allocation, and student access to materials that support cognitive and recreational growth. Stoute highlighted the platform’s robust security measures, ensuring students engage with appropriate educational content while exploring AI in a constructive manner. Stephen Savoury, project coordinator for Skills for the Future 2, underscored the programme’s commitment to inclusive education, emphasizing the shift from rote memorization to critical thinking and digital literacy. He outlined ambitious plans to modernize classroom infrastructure, transforming them into dynamic, technology-rich hubs of innovation. Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, Chief Education Officer, praised the platform for empowering educators to curate and share resources, fostering a collaborative culture across schools.