Carib Scope

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  • Elkhorn Marine Conservancy Announces Rebrand to AnuBlue

    Elkhorn Marine Conservancy Announces Rebrand to AnuBlue

    The Caribbean marine conservation landscape has witnessed a significant transformation as Elkhorn Marine Conservation (EMC) officially rebrands itself as AnuBlue, signaling a strategic expansion of its environmental mission. This nomenclature evolution embodies both geographical significance and aspirational purpose—’Anu’ pays homage to Antiguan heritage while ‘Blue’ represents the marine ecosystems central to their work. The phonetic interpretation as ‘a new blue’ poetically captures the organization’s revitalization vision for Antigua and Barbuda’s seas.

    Since its 2021 inception with a single coral nursery near Green Island, the organization has matured into a comprehensive ocean restoration initiative. The newly christened AnuBlue now operates through three synergistic pillars: restoration, research, and community engagement, creating a holistic approach to marine conservation.

    The restoration program demonstrates scientific sophistication by propagating 13 endangered coral species across four nurseries strategically located at Jumby Bay, Cades Reef, and dual sites around Green Island. The organization selectively cultivates coral fragments from parent colonies exhibiting proven heat and disease resistance. These fragments undergo careful cultivation before being transplanted to degraded reef systems. The strategic placement of genetically diverse corals in proximate locations encourages natural gamete exchange during spawning events, fostering genetic diversity that enhances climate resilience and disease resistance.

    AnuBlue’s scientific methodology incorporates cutting-edge research specifically designed for Antigua and Barbuda’s unique marine conditions. The organization conducts rigorous water quality monitoring, investigates the ecological impact of sponges and herbivorous species like crabs and sea urchins on reef restoration, and implements advanced tracking systems including whale acoustic monitoring and shark tagging. Their research contributions have gained international recognition through recent publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

    Community integration forms the third crucial component of AnuBlue’s mission. The organization maintains strong local partnerships, employing fisherfolk and scuba divers to ensure nursery sustainability. Recognizing the complex cultural relationship between island residents and the ocean, AnuBlue implements educational initiatives including swimming lessons, summer camps, and coastal awareness programs designed to build marine confidence and foster environmental stewardship.

    Christal Clashing, Director of Advancement and Community Engagement, emphasized: ‘Our new identity reflects both our evolution and ambition. AnuBlue represents our conviction that meaningful restoration requires integrating education, research, and community collaboration to achieve lasting impact.’ This rebranding signifies a deepened commitment to not only rejuvenating coral ecosystems but also strengthening the human-ocean connection, ensuring the long-term vitality of Antigua and Barbuda’s marine heritage for future generations.

  • COMMENTARY: How Dominica’s small businesses are—or aren’t—harnessing renewable energy

    COMMENTARY: How Dominica’s small businesses are—or aren’t—harnessing renewable energy

    Nestled in the heart of the Lesser Antilles, the Commonwealth of Dominica lives up to its ‘Nature Island’ moniker. This volcanic territory, blessed with near-year-round sunshine, abundant rainfall, and powerful rivers, possesses a natural profile almost perfectly suited for renewable energy generation. For decades, this potential simmered quietly, with early adoption seen in household solar water heaters—objects of childhood curiosity for many Dominicans that symbolized a nascent green consciousness.

    The narrative of energy in Dominica is now rapidly evolving, moving from individual households to the core of its small business sector. A cohort of local manufacturers, celebrated for their regional award-winning products, is grappling with the dual pressures of expansion and escalating energy costs. These enterprises, including producers of tropical snacks, pepper sauce, rum, and natural cosmetics, form the backbone of a local economy formalized by the 2018 Small and Micro Business Act.

    Despite operating on a modest scale with fluctuating energy demands, growth is driving a critical reassessment of power sources. Interviews with business owners reveal a common trajectory: as production capacity expands with the addition of mixers, blenders, and refrigeration units, electricity consumption and costs rise in lockstep. This is not a sign of inefficiency but a direct correlation to increased output and operational frequency.

    Currently, most rely on the national grid, operated by the Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC), which has harnessed hydro power since 1952. However, one standout example points to a viable alternative. Sea Cliff Eco Cottages and its on-site gin distillery operate entirely on solar energy, supported by battery storage. The distillery recently invested in a larger solar array to accommodate its growing energy needs, demonstrating a proactive commitment to energy independence.

    The high initial investment for renewable technology remains a significant barrier for many. Yet, the long-term calculus is shifting. Businesses like Big G’s Pepper Pot view solar adoption as an essential cost-saving measure for future growth, stating, ‘Where there is growth, there is going to be expenses, and so the move towards renewable solar energy is to save even if it is a dollar.’ Others, like Bonnit Enterprises, are looking beyond solar to future opportunities in biogas, utilizing by-products from their food manufacturing.

    The island’s looming energy solution casts a long shadow over these decisions: geothermal power. With a plant in the volcanic community of Laudat expected to be commissioned in 2026, a cautious optimism prevails. Business owners express hope that geothermal energy will deliver not only cleaner power but also the reliability and lower costs needed for competitiveness. For manufacturers like Jaydees Naturals, this promises an end to the disruptive outages and diesel shortages that crippled operations in 2022-2023, allowing for smoother production and reduced operational stress.

    The journey from the solar water heater on a neighbor’s roof to a future-powered geothermal grid encapsulates Dominica’s energy transition. The ambition and innovation of its small business owners are clear. The extent to which the nation’s renewable energy infrastructure can keep pace with their growing demands will ultimately determine the sustainability and resilience of this vital economic sector.

  • Miami-bound AA flight makes safe landing at GAIA

    Miami-bound AA flight makes safe landing at GAIA

    An American Airlines aircraft operating as Flight AA497 executed an unplanned return to Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados on Tuesday morning after pilots identified a potential landing gear malfunction shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 737-800, en route to Miami, initiated a precautionary protocol and performed a series of holding patterns over the Caribbean Sea to assess the situation and burn fuel before making its return approach. Aviation authorities confirmed the jet touched down safely on the runway with no injuries reported among passengers or crew. Emergency services were deployed as a standard safety measure, though their assistance was not required. The incident has prompted an internal investigation by the airline, with maintenance crews conducting thorough inspections of the aircraft’s landing system. American Airlines has begun reaccommodating affected travelers on alternative flights while expressing regret for the travel disruption. The event highlights the aviation industry’s stringent safety-first procedures when addressing potential mechanical irregularities during flight operations.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Launches Official Website for CHOGM 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda Launches Official Website for CHOGM 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a comprehensive digital platform to facilitate preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. The innovative portal will serve as a central hub for nearly thirty unique accommodation properties and hotels across the island nation, enabling delegates and accredited media to efficiently review lodging options and plan their participation.

    Prime Minister Honourable Gaston Browne emphasized the platform’s significance, stating: “As we prepare to welcome the Commonwealth family in 2026, this digital infrastructure will connect people across regions while providing clear, reliable information. It will simultaneously showcase the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality that define our nation. We anticipate robust engagement with citizens and partners across the Commonwealth as we advance shared priorities.”

    Commonwealth Secretary-General Honourable Shirley Botchwey and Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, Head of the CHOGM Task Force, highlighted the platform’s triple functionality. The digital solution will provide timely information to all stakeholders, function as a coordination tool for logistics and accreditation, and showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s readiness to host a globally significant event.

    Dr. Pilgrim noted: “In today’s world, successful international events require strong digital infrastructure. This platform aligns with global best practices and reinforces our commitment to professionalism, transparency, and operational excellence.”

    CHOGM 2026 will convene leaders from the Commonwealth’s 56 member states, representing 2.7 billion people with over 60% under age 29. The gathering aims to advance collective action on sustainable development, climate resilience, economic cooperation, and youth empowerment. The Commonwealth Secretariat supports member countries in building democratic institutions, strengthening governance, and addressing global challenges through a network of more than 80 intergovernmental and civil society organizations.

    Registration and accreditation procedures will be published separately in a subsequent announcement once available.

  • James House tops Ave Maria Girls sports meet

    James House tops Ave Maria Girls sports meet

    James House triumphed at the Ave Maria Girls Primary and Infant School track meet last Friday, securing victory with a dominant 224-point performance. The athletic competition, held at Mindoo Philip Park, showcased emerging talent from young female athletes across multiple track and field disciplines.

    Pierre House claimed second position with 212 points, followed by Egan with 192 points and Hennecart with 180 points in the closely contested meet. The event highlighted exceptional individual performances across different age categories, with three athletes earning victrix ludorum honors for their outstanding achievements.

    Amelia Alfred of Pierre House captured the Under-9 championship title, while Chriselle Lionel of James House secured the Under-11 crown. Sarah Harrow of Hennecart claimed the Under-13 victrix ludorum trophy, demonstrating the depth of talent across participating houses.

    Kayla Thorpe, physical education teacher at the infant school, emphasized the educational value of athletic competition in an exclusive interview with St Lucia Times. “Sports provides one of the few environments where students can experience spectacular failure in a completely safe space,” she noted. Thorpe explained that losing a race cultivates resilience and critical thinking skills more effectively than academic setbacks, while team sports teach students to prioritize collective success over individual ego.

    The event successfully blended competitive athletics with character development, offering participants valuable life lessons beyond traditional classroom learning methodologies.

  • Henry, Francis Qualify for CARIFTA as Antigua and Barbuda Team Grows

    Henry, Francis Qualify for CARIFTA as Antigua and Barbuda Team Grows

    The Antigua and Barbuda Athletic Association has announced a significant enhancement to its national junior athletic roster with two additional athletes securing their positions for the upcoming CARIFTA Games. This development strengthens the nation’s competitive positioning ahead of the prestigious regional championships scheduled for 2026.

    Emerging sprint talent Geron Henry has achieved his inaugural CARIFTA qualification in the Under-17 boys’ 400-meter event. His breakthrough performance demonstrates remarkable progress in the quarter-mile discipline, representing a pivotal advancement in his athletic career trajectory.

    Simultaneously, Maliek Francis has secured his qualification in the Under-20 javelin throw category. The former Under-17 record holder continues to exhibit exceptional consistency and throwing prowess in his second competitive season at the Under-20 level, maintaining his reputation as a formidable contender in field events.

    These additions provide substantial competitive depth to Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation as training intensifies for the CARIFTA Games, which serves as the Caribbean’s premier platform for showcasing emerging track and field excellence. The Athletic Association has formally congratulated both athletes while indicating anticipation of further roster expansions throughout the ongoing qualification period.

  • Debrieul SDA Church leads community cleanup

    Debrieul SDA Church leads community cleanup

    In a demonstration of faith in action, members of the Debrieul Seventh-day Adventist Church mobilized at dawn Sunday for an extensive neighborhood cleanup initiative in the La-Maze and Roblot communities. Equipped with protective gloves, garbage bags, and cutting tools, the volunteer corps embarked on their mission at 6:30 AM, transforming streets through physical labor that culminated in collective prayers and a communal breakfast.

    The operation, orchestrated by the church’s Community Services Department, represents a strategic shift from conventional evangelism toward practical community engagement. Curpris Charles, the department leader, articulated this philosophy to St Lucia Times, emphasizing that the church aims to be recognized not merely for preaching about Christ’s return but for embodying gospel principles through tangible service.

    “Christ’s ministry consistently addressed both spiritual and physical needs within communities,” Charles explained. “While cleaning streets may not appear directly related to assisting struggling families, it serves as an diagnostic tool for identifying deeper social issues.” The cleanup unexpectedly revealed significant alcohol abuse evidence through collected plastic cups, prompting plans for targeted health interventions on substance abuse’s community impact.

    Pastor Leeroy David issued a broader challenge to Saint Lucia’s Christian community, urging collective action against environmental neglect. “Seventh-day Adventists recognize our responsibility to steward both creation and community,” David stated. “We implore citizens not to await compensation or external initiative—this is our divinely entrusted island, and today marks only the beginning of our sustained efforts.”

  • Campbell Takes Third in Men’s 60m at Huston College Invitational

    Campbell Takes Third in Men’s 60m at Huston College Invitational

    Emerging Caribbean sprinter Kadeem Campbell delivered a promising performance at the Huston College Invitational this Saturday, clinching third place in the men’s 60-meter dash with a consistent time of 6.89 seconds. The Antiguan athlete demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the competition, first winning his preliminary heat in an identical 6.89 seconds before replicating the feat in the final round to secure his podium position. This event represents only Campbell’s second indoor competition since his strategic relocation from Antigua to Texas in December 2025, where he has been training intensively with the Elite Performance Track Club. The Antigua and Barbuda Athletic Association has publicly expressed their support for the sprinter as he pursues the World Indoor Championships qualifying standard of 6.59 seconds while building momentum for the ongoing athletic season.

  • Two charged with having cannabis resin

    Two charged with having cannabis resin

    In a significant law enforcement operation, authorities in Saint Lucia have apprehended two individuals on serious narcotics charges following a coordinated raid in the Gros Islet district. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) executed search warrants at a Ti Morne residence on February 5, 2026, targeting properties connected to 35-year-old Lance Alfred (alias ‘Bolo’) and 36-year-old Tresha Richard.

    The operation yielded substantial evidence, including a quantity of cannabis resin and approximately US$13,000 in cash found on the premises. Both suspects were immediately taken into custody and formally charged with dual counts of possession of cannabis resin and possession with intent to supply.

    Following their arrest, the defendants appeared before a magistrate on February 6, where each was granted bail set at EC$1,500. The relatively swift judicial proceedings demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to expediting drug-related cases.

    Notably, the substantial cash discovery prompted police to initiate asset forfeiture procedures under Section 29(a) of the Crime Act, based on reasonable suspicion that the funds represented proceeds of criminal activity. The Financial Intelligence Authority has been formally notified and has assumed an investigative role, pursuing permanent seizure of the currency and conducting expanded financial investigations into the suspects’ assets and transactions.

  • Commonwealth law ministers meeting launches with appeals for equal application to global rule of law in changing times

    Commonwealth law ministers meeting launches with appeals for equal application to global rule of law in changing times

    Nadi, Fiji – Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, the Commonwealth Law Ministers Conference opened today with a powerful call to reinforce legal systems worldwide. Hosted in Fiji, the gathering brings together justice ministers and attorneys general from all 56 Commonwealth nations to address pressing legal challenges affecting citizens’ daily lives and economic stability.

    The conference commenced with a traditional Fijian welcoming ceremony for dignitaries including Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Tuvalu’s Prime Minister Feleti Penitala Teo, and Tonga’s Deputy Prime Minister Viliami Latu. Over 250 delegates are participating in the three-day summit focused on practical solutions for strengthening judicial integrity.

    In his opening address, Prime Minister Rabuka issued a stark warning about the global deterioration of legal frameworks. “When the rule of law is weakened, inconsistently applied, or loses public confidence,” he stated, “the most vulnerable members of our societies bear the ultimate cost.” Rabuka emphasized that the conference must transcend theoretical discussions to deliver actionable strategies that ensure justice systems remain reliable and accessible.

    The Prime Minister particularly highlighted the critical intersection of climate change and legal protection, urging ministers to develop legal mechanisms that safeguard both communities and environments from ecological threats.

    Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey addressed the assembly amid concerns about growing political instability and economic volatility. “When the rule of force begins to overshadow the rule of law,” Botchwey cautioned, “the very foundations of our societies become compromised.” She characterized the ministers’ work as essential to rebuilding institutional trust and strengthening democratic resilience.

    The conference agenda focuses on three primary areas: legal frameworks for democratic preservation, economic development through judicial reliability, and environmental sustainability legislation. Specific discussions will address maritime rights protection in the face of rising sea levels and technological applications for improving access to justice.

    Under the theme “Anchoring Justice in a Changing Tide: Strengthening the Rule of Law for a Resilient Future,” the conference is chaired by Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga. The proceedings will conclude on February 11th with the adoption of a comprehensive outcome statement detailing concrete commitments Commonwealth nations will implement to reinforce legal protections for their citizens.