Carib Scope

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  • State ministers support local farmers in Douglas Castle with fertilisers and seedlings

    State ministers support local farmers in Douglas Castle with fertilisers and seedlings

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a concerted effort to aid agricultural recovery, several Jamaican state ministers visited Douglas Castle in St Ann to provide relief to farmers impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative, led by Zavia Mayne, Member of Parliament for St Ann South Western, saw the distribution of fertiliser and seedlings to help restore crops and livelihoods. Mayne was joined by Alando Terrelonge, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, and Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security and Peace.

    Mayne highlighted the severe devastation faced by farmers and stressed the urgent need for targeted support to revive farming districts, which are vital to rural and national development. Terrelonge echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of safeguarding Jamaica’s food security amidst global supply chain uncertainties. He noted that supporting farmers is crucial for maintaining a stable source of locally produced food and building long-term resilience.

    Cuthbert-Flynn praised the collaborative efforts of government ministries and agencies in addressing the challenges faced by rural communities. She called for more initiatives to bolster local recovery efforts and ensure consistent support for affected constituencies.

    This relief effort is part of the Holness administration’s broader agricultural recovery and resilience programme, designed to restore productivity, strengthen food security, and support communities hardest hit by recent weather events.

  • Six airlines cancel Venezuela flights after US warning

    Six airlines cancel Venezuela flights after US warning

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a significant development, six international airlines have suspended their flights to Venezuela following a warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about heightened military activity and deteriorating security in the region. The airlines affected include Spain’s Iberia, Portugal’s TAP, Chile’s LATAM, Colombia’s Avianca, Brazil’s GOL, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Caribbean Airlines, according to Marisela de Loaiza, president of the Venezuelan Airlines Association (ALAV). The duration of these suspensions remains unspecified. Meanwhile, Panama’s Copa Airlines, Spain’s Air Europa and PlusUltra, Turkish Airlines, and Venezuela’s LASER continue to operate flights. The FAA’s advisory, issued on Friday, cautioned civilian aircraft in Venezuelan airspace about potential risks at all altitudes, including during takeoff, landing, and overflight, as well as threats to grounded aircraft and airports. This warning comes amid a major US military buildup in the region, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group, Navy warships, and stealth aircraft. While Washington claims these measures are aimed at combating drug trafficking, they have raised concerns in Caracas about potential regime change. Additionally, a US terrorism designation targeting a drug cartel allegedly led by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro takes effect Monday, fueling speculation about possible military action. Since early September, US forces have conducted strikes against over 20 vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in more than 80 deaths. However, the US has not provided concrete evidence linking these vessels to drug smuggling, exacerbating regional tensions.

  • Agriculture ministry to rebuild poultry sector after 1.1 million bird loss

    Agriculture ministry to rebuild poultry sector after 1.1 million bird loss

    In response to the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa on October 28, Jamaica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has unveiled a comprehensive recovery plan for the poultry sector. Minister Floyd Green revealed that preliminary assessments indicate a loss of over 1.1 million birds, including 458,000 layers and more than 700,000 broiler chickens. This devastation surpasses the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which resulted in the loss of approximately 300,000 chickens.

  • CXC extends exam timetable for Jamaica

    CXC extends exam timetable for Jamaica

    In response to the widespread disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s education sector is implementing significant adjustments to mitigate the impact on students. Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, announced on November 21 in the Senate that the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has agreed to extend the examination timetable for Jamaica. This extension will allow students additional preparation time, with exams scheduled later than in other regions. Additionally, the Ministry is considering extending the dates for the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations, though a final decision has yet to be made. Senator Morris Dixon also revealed that negotiations for reduced CXC fees are nearing completion, with an announcement expected soon. To address the challenges faced by students preparing for external examinations, the Ministry is collaborating with the CXC to introduce flexible measures, including adjusted deadlines for School-Based Assessments (SBAs) and practical examinations, as well as options for reduced exam sittings based on individual circumstances. Furthermore, the National Vocational Qualification of Jamaica (NVQ-J) November sitting has been postponed, with rescheduled examinations tentatively set for February and June 2026. City & Guilds has also proposed a two-cohort examination model for 2026, offering increased flexibility for schools in severely impacted areas. These measures aim to alleviate the burden on students and institutions, particularly after more than 600 educational institutions sustained damage during the category five hurricane, which struck on October 28.

  • Kiwis stroll to 3-0 ODI series win vs Windies

    Kiwis stroll to 3-0 ODI series win vs Windies

    New Zealand secured a comprehensive victory over the West Indies in the third and final One-Day International (ODI) at Seddon Park in Hamilton on November 22, completing a clean sweep of the three-match series. The West Indies, batting first, were dismissed for a modest 161 runs in 36.2 overs, with Roston Chase (38), John Campbell (26), and Khary Pierre (22 not out) providing the only notable contributions. The Caribbean side struggled against New Zealand’s bowling attack, led by Matt Henry, who claimed four wickets for 43 runs, and captain Mitchell Santner, who took two for 27. Despite a brief resistance from the lower order, the Windies collapsed from 31 for two to 95 for seven, failing to build a competitive total. In response, New Zealand faced early setbacks, losing three wickets for 32 runs. However, a decisive 75-run partnership between Mark Chapman (64) and Michael Bracewell (40 not out) steered the hosts to victory. The Black Caps reached the target of 162 with six wickets down in the 31st over, sealing a comfortable win. The teams will now shift focus to a three-match Test series starting December 1, where the West Indies aim to bounce back from their recent defeats in the T20 and ODI series.

  • Paint, powder and vibes as hundreds celebrate Sando City Month J’Ouvert

    Paint, powder and vibes as hundreds celebrate Sando City Month J’Ouvert

    The streets of San Fernando came alive with vibrant energy on November 22 as over 15 bands participated in the J’Ouvert celebrations, marking a highlight of the borough’s City Month activities. Revelers danced, doused each other with powder, and frolicked in foam as they moved along Coffee Street to Cipero Street, creating a festive atmosphere that captivated the city. The event was heavily policed to ensure safety, with officers managing the enthusiastic crowds. Among the attendees was Patsy Calliste, wife of the late calypsonian Leroy ‘Black Stalin’ Calliste, who, along with her grandson Keevan Calliste, enjoyed the colorful festivities. Newsday photographer Innis Francis captured the essence of the celebration, documenting moments of national pride, friendship, and pure joy. From a man in a wheelchair enjoying the dance moves of young women to a group reveling with the band South Is Bess, the event showcased the unifying power of music and culture. The celebration also saw Councillor Niagum Joseph joining the Bigbad Ballerz band, adding to the communal spirit. The J’Ouvert festivities not only highlighted San Fernando’s cultural richness but also reinforced the city’s reputation as a hub of lively and inclusive celebrations.

  • EMA seeks public’s views on proposed Rocky Point hotel

    EMA seeks public’s views on proposed Rocky Point hotel

    The development of a new 200-bed luxury hotel on Tobago’s scenic southwest coast has advanced significantly, with the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) initiating a public consultation phase on November 21. The EMA has invited public feedback on the Certificate of Environmental Clearance application for the proposed Marriott Hotel at Rocky Point, Mt Irvine. This marks a pivotal step in the project’s journey toward realization. John Aboud, Chairman of Superior Hotels, the company spearheading the initiative, confirmed that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been completed and submitted following an extensive and costly study. The process included three public consultations in Tobago, ensuring local voices were heard. The EMA has set a deadline of December 12 for written objections, with the EIA available for review at various public venues. Aboud emphasized that the project has been meticulously planned to address environmental and conservation concerns, including preserving the historic fort at the site. He highlighted that the hotel aims to enhance the area’s appeal as a tourist destination while respecting its natural and cultural heritage. Despite concerns raised by environmentalists and conservationists, Aboud assured that the project aligns with their goals of preserving the site’s value. Activists have yet to comment publicly, opting to review the EMA application first.

  • Cariah hat-trick caps off Red Force win over Jamaica Scorpions

    Cariah hat-trick caps off Red Force win over Jamaica Scorpions

    In a thrilling display of cricketing prowess, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force secured a commanding 75-run victory against Jamaica Scorpions in the CG United Regional Super50 Cup. The match, held at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba on November 21, was marked by a sensational late-order hat-trick from leg-spinner Yannic Cariah, earning him the Man of the Match accolade.

  • Promoters aim for US$1m goal with all-star Jamaica Strong relief concert lineup

    Promoters aim for US$1m goal with all-star Jamaica Strong relief concert lineup

    The Jamaica Strong benefit concert, scheduled for Friday, December 12, at the UBS Arena in New York, is set to bring together a star-studded lineup to raise $1 million for hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica. Organized under the ‘I Love Jamaica Concert Series’ in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica, the event aims to provide critical support to families and communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Headliners include Shaggy, Sean Paul, KES, Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, Tessanne Chin, Aidonia, Chronic Law, TOK, Gramps Morgan, Richie Stephens, Mikey Spice, Marcia Griffiths, I-Octane, and gospel singer Kevin Downwell. Kacy Rankine, CEO of Roadblock Radio, emphasized the unity of the diaspora, stating, ‘This is New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania… the whole USA coming together. We’re going to send something big to Jamaica.’ George Crooks, CEO of Jammins Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the urgency of the crisis and the diaspora’s commitment to supporting their homeland. Net proceeds from the concert will be transparently distributed to approved beneficiaries, including the nation’s official hurricane relief fund and other registered charities. Tickets are now available on Ticketmaster.

  • Gunmen seize 315 in latest Nigerian mass school kidnapping

    Gunmen seize 315 in latest Nigerian mass school kidnapping

    In a shocking escalation of insecurity, Nigeria has witnessed one of its largest mass kidnappings, with over 300 students and teachers abducted in a series of coordinated attacks. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) confirmed the latest incident, which occurred early Friday at St Mary’s co-education school in Niger state. This follows a separate abduction earlier in the week in Kebbi state, where 25 girls were taken from a secondary school. Initially, CAN reported 227 victims, but after verification, the number rose to 303 students and 12 teachers, nearly half of St Mary’s student population. The Nigerian government has yet to comment on the crisis, while Niger state governor Mohammed Umar Bago announced the closure of all schools in the state as a precautionary measure. Nearby states and the national education ministry have also ordered school closures. President Bola Tinubu has canceled international engagements, including the G20 summit in Johannesburg, to address the situation. The abductions have reignited fears of insecurity in Nigeria, a nation still haunted by the 2014 Chibok kidnapping, where nearly 300 girls were taken by Boko Haram. Citizens like Stella Shaibu, a nurse who collected her daughter from a government school near Abuja, expressed frustration over the government’s inability to ensure safety. She questioned how such large-scale abductions could occur repeatedly and voiced support for international intervention to address the crisis.