Carib Scope

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  • CHOGM training steps up as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for 2026 summit

    CHOGM training steps up as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for 2026 summit

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an intensive training program for public officials to enhance operational readiness for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Conducted at the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Training Centre, the sessions bring together personnel from multiple ministries and agencies to strengthen interdepartmental coordination capabilities.

    Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene emphasized the national significance of CHOGM 2026, characterizing it as a substantial governmental undertaking that demands seamless collaboration across all sectors. “This summit requires unprecedented coordination to guarantee security, operational efficiency, and an exceptional experience for all visiting delegations,” Minister Greene stated during the training inauguration.

    The comprehensive preparation program forms part of a broader initiative to build public service capacity and establish Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a competent host for major international gatherings. Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim highlighted the crucial role of the newly established National CHOGM Secretariat, which provides a centralized framework for strategic planning and interagency alignment while addressing emerging logistical challenges.

    Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Chief of Staff of the Defence Force, indicated that preparatory efforts are transitioning from strategic planning to practical execution phases. “We are entering the most critical implementation stage where discipline, coordinated response mechanisms, and timely decision-making will determine our success,” Benjamin noted during tactical exercises.

    The 2026 gathering will convene leaders from across the Commonwealth nations, positioning Antigua and Barbuda at the forefront of global diplomatic engagement and potentially elevating its international profile as a capable host state for significant multilateral events.

  • Titans Open Week Two with Convincing 5–1 Win Over Paradise Ballers

    Titans Open Week Two with Convincing 5–1 Win Over Paradise Ballers

    In a commanding display of precision and skill, the defending champions Titans asserted their dominance during the second week of the NPPA Elrick Pat Bezer 8-Ball Team Tournament at Kennedy’s Classic Club. The team secured a decisive 5-1 victory against Paradise Ballers, demonstrating why they remain the squad to beat this season.

    The match opened with the Titans taking an early lead before Paradise Ballers’ Sky responded with a sharp, disciplined performance against Charbel. Sky controlled the table masterfully, securing a 2-0 win that momentarily leveled the match at 1-1.

    Momentum swiftly returned to the Titans as captain B.A.D. engaged in a gritty contest against Tucker, ultimately prevailing 2-1. After splitting the first two racks, B.A.D. delivered the week’s first run-out, leaving seven balls on the table and denying Paradise Ballers a chance to take the overall lead.

    Eddie further extended the Titans’ advantage with another crucial 2-1 victory over Robbie. After conceding the opening rack, Eddie recalibrated his strategy, steadied the pace, and effectively shut down any potential Paradise Ballers resurgence.

    The night’s most dramatic moment arrived during the fifth matchup featuring debutant Chapo, formerly of the Sharpshooters, against Paradise Ballers’ captain Magic. Chapo delivered under immense pressure, securing a 2-1 victory that included the shot of the night—a spectacular one-cushion bank that cut back the length of the table on the eight ball, eliciting strong reactions from spectators.

    Cue Ball Rickie sealed the match in style with a composed 2-0 victory over O.B., despite testing his own nerves by missing the eight ball twice from open positions before finally closing out the contest.

    With the result already determined, Titans players Ses, Peck, and Marzack were not required to play, while Paradise Ballers’ XL, Emroy, and Max remained on the sidelines.

    The victory positions the Titans as comfortable frontrunners who handle championship expectations with ease, while Paradise Ballers must regroup and improve their conversion of opportunities in upcoming matches.

  • National Easter Festival 2026 Set to Launch in Antigua and Barbuda

    National Easter Festival 2026 Set to Launch in Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda will witness the inaugural National Easter Festival from April 4th to 6th, 2026, a landmark event organized through a collaborative partnership between the Irene B. Williams Secondary School PTA, Peetron Music, the National PTA Association, and So Arise Music International. This three-day celebration is strategically designed to merge cultural entertainment with substantial educational philanthropy.

    The festival itinerary commences on April 4th with the National School Choir Competition, highlighting secondary school ensembles performing in formal dress uniforms. This segment emphasizes vocal precision and artistic discipline, with a coveted $7,000 prize package awaiting the winning choir. The following day, April 5th, is dedicated to the Praise Break Gospel Quest, a competitive platform for gospel artists offering a $10,000 award, aimed at inspiring both participants and audiences through spiritual music.

    The grand finale on April 6th, dubbed ‘Joyful Noize,’ will be a large-scale gospel concert featuring dynamic musical performances.

    A core component of the festival extends beyond entertainment; it is structured as a charitable endeavor with a rotating annual focus. Proceeds from the 2026 event will be directly channeled to the Irene B. Williams Secondary School to address critical infrastructural and educational needs. Organizers have outlined a sustainable model where a different school will be adopted each subsequent year, ensuring ongoing strategic investment in the nation’s educational infrastructure.

    A formal proposal is slated for submission to the national Festival Commission, with expectations of strong governmental and public endorsement. The organizing consortium urges citizens to mark their calendars for this fusion of faith, youth talent, and community service, promising further details in forthcoming announcements.

  • Nieuwe brug verbetert bereikbaarheid Bende Kondre

    Nieuwe brug verbetert bereikbaarheid Bende Kondre

    In a significant infrastructure development for Suriname’s interior regions, Minister of Regional Development Miquella Huur officially inaugurated a new concrete bridge in Bende Kondre, Boven Suriname on February 10th. The 16-meter long and 3-meter wide structure spans a heavily utilized creek that serves as a vital transportation route for residents of Bende Kondre and surrounding villages.

    The newly completed bridge represents a major enhancement to regional connectivity and safety standards. Prior to its construction, residents faced considerable challenges crossing the waterway, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The infrastructure project directly addresses these mobility constraints while facilitating improved access to essential services and economic opportunities.

    Minister Huur expressed satisfaction with the project’s completion, emphasizing her ministry’s ongoing commitment to nationwide community development. “While we cannot fulfill all requests simultaneously,” Huur stated, “this bridge demonstrates our sustained dedication to improving living conditions across all regions of Suriname.” The minister extended gratitude to both the construction contractor and local residents whose collaborative efforts ensured the project’s successful realization.

    District Commissioner Humphry Jeroe appealed to the community to maintain the infrastructure properly, highlighting the importance of local stewardship in preserving public assets. Granman (paramount chief) Albert Aboikondo conveyed appreciation for the government’s development efforts, acknowledging the bridge’s transformative potential for the region. Community members echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that the project would catalyze further developmental initiatives in the area.

    The inauguration ceremony signifies the Surinamese government’s continued focus on addressing infrastructure disparities in remote communities, potentially setting a precedent for similar projects in other underserved regions of the country.

  • Dominican Pilots Association calls for release of pilot detained in Guinea

    Dominican Pilots Association calls for release of pilot detained in Guinea

    SANTO DOMINGO – The Dominican Republic’s aviation community has launched an urgent international campaign demanding the immediate release of pilot Fabio Nicolás Espinal Núñez, who remains detained in Guinea under controversial circumstances since December despite a court-ordered release.

    The crisis emerged when Espinal Núñez, during an international flight operation, executed a scheduled technical landing for refueling in Guinean airspace. Despite maintaining proper communication with air traffic authorities throughout the maneuver, local military officials subsequently arrested him on allegations of unauthorized landing and airspace violations. Although an appeals court later granted conditional release, Guinean authorities have refused to implement the judicial decision, extending the pilot’s detention indefinitely.

    At a emotionally charged press conference in Santo Domingo, family representatives revealed grave concerns about Espinal Núñez’s deteriorating physical and mental health amid Guinea’s current political climate. International human rights organizations have documented widespread arbitrary detentions and severe civil liberty restrictions under the nation’s military-controlled government.

    Captain Eugenio de Marchena, President of the National Association of Pilots (ANP), condemned the detention as a violation of fundamental aviation protocols. ‘Technical fuel stops are universally recognized procedures governed by international cooperation and good faith principles,’ de Marchena stated. ‘This arbitrary detention sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the entire framework of global civil aviation.’

    The ANP has mobilized a multinational response, urging pilot associations, aeronautical federations, and international aviation bodies to activate emergency mediation channels. Simultaneously, the association has formally petitioned Dominican President Luis Abinader to escalate diplomatic interventions through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, demanding immediate consular protection and due process guarantees for the detained aviator.

  • Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially celebrated the exceptional achievement of Jamaican prodigy Vitel Lawes, whose remarkable performance at the 2026 ICC Under 19 World Cup secured his place in the Tournament’s Select Team. The 18-year-old left-arm wrist spinner distinguished himself as a pivotal force within the West Indies squad, captivating global cricket audiences with his skillful displays and mental fortitude throughout the competition.

    Lawes emerged as the leading wicket-taker for the Caribbean side, claiming 10 crucial scalps with his deceptive bowling. His tournament journey began spectacularly with a 3/23 spell against Tanzania, effectively dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup. He continued his impressive form despite team setbacks, securing another three-wicket haul (3/48) against Afghanistan and delivering critical breakthroughs in subsequent matches against South Africa, Ireland, and Australia. Notably, Lawes bowled a tournament-high 150 dot balls, consistently building pressure on opposing batsmen.

    Reflecting on his achievement, Lawes described the selection as “a very big achievement” following initial doubts about his place in the World Cup team after a challenging series against Sri Lanka. “To come from such a low moment, this is a tremendous feeling,” Lawes stated. “Being the only West Indian makes it even more special for me, the region, and my country.”

    CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe praised Lawes’s development, noting his “maturity beyond his years” and ability to execute under pressure against quality opposition. Bascombe emphasized that such performances validate the effectiveness of the region’s youth development programs and signal a promising future for West Indies cricket.

    The West Indies campaign featured several other standout performances, including opener Zachary Carter’s century against South Africa—the team’s only hundred of the tournament—and wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew’s consistent contributions. Shaquan Belle recorded the competition’s best bowling figures (6/40 against South Africa), while Jakeem Pollard demonstrated extraordinary economy with 68.4% dot balls delivered.

    CWI extended commendations to the entire Under 19 squad and support staff for their dedicated efforts throughout the tournament, recognizing their collective contribution to building a solid foundation for the future of Caribbean cricket.

  • One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Thursday, February 12, 2026

    One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Thursday, February 12, 2026

    The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to convene on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the National Assembly Chambers at Government Headquarters, Basseterre. The parliamentary session will feature the inaugural reading of significant financial legislation proposed by the government.

    Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, who holds multiple portfolios including Finance, National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, Health and Social Security, will formally introduce the Saint Kitts and Nevis Sovereign Wealth and Resilience Fund Bill (2026). This legislative initiative represents a continuation of the administration’s commitment to principles of good governance, transparency, accountability, and the Rule of Law.

    The parliamentary proceedings will receive comprehensive media coverage, being broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and several partner radio stations. Television audiences can watch the session on Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis, while digital access will be available through live streaming at www.zizonline.com.

    Official copies of the proposed legislation will be made accessible to the public through multiple channels once available. These include the official website of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (www.sknis.gov.kn) under the ‘Bills’ section, as well as through their Facebook platform, ensuring widespread public access to the document.

  • Cement sales in the Dominican Republic rise 2.3% in 2025

    Cement sales in the Dominican Republic rise 2.3% in 2025

    The Dominican cement industry demonstrated notable economic resilience throughout 2025, achieving a 2.3% overall increase in sales volume despite facing headwinds in domestic construction. This growth was primarily propelled by a robust 9.2% surge in export activities, which effectively counterbalanced a period of slowed local market expansion.

    Domestic cement sales experienced a modest uptick of just 0.9%, signaling relative stability in local demand but falling considerably short of the vigorous growth rates witnessed in preceding years. This domestic slowdown aligns with official Central Bank figures indicating a 1.8% contraction in the national construction sector for the same period.

    The industry’s successful export strategy was underpinned by significant capital investments directed toward enhancing production capabilities, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with stringent international quality standards. These strategic advancements have enabled Dominican producers to effectively compete in strategic regional markets.

    Jorge David Pérez, President of the Dominican Association of Cement Producers (Adocem), emphasized the sector’s critical contribution to the national economy. He noted that the export expansion has been instrumental in generating vital foreign exchange earnings, reducing the national trade deficit, and bolstering industrial employment. Pérez further advocated for the implementation of public policies designed to stimulate investment in construction, infrastructure, and housing projects, underscoring the sector’s fundamental role in driving broader economic growth, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering job creation across the Dominican Republic.

  • Dominican Republic among few countries that improved corruption perception in 2025

    Dominican Republic among few countries that improved corruption perception in 2025

    The Americas have demonstrated negligible advancement in combating systemic corruption throughout 2025, according to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) published by Transparency International. The comprehensive assessment of 182 global territories reveals a troubling regional stagnation, with Venezuela and Nicaragua maintaining their positions among the world’s most corrupt nations while the United States recorded its poorest performance in the index’s history.

    The regional evaluation averaged a concerning score of 42 out of 100 possible points across American nations. Transparency International’s analysis indicates a disturbing backward trend, with 12 of the region’s 33 countries experiencing measurable deterioration since 2012. The organization attributes this regression to governmental inaction, the systematic weakening of democratic institutions, and the expanding footprint of transnational organized crime networks. Among the few bright spots, the Dominican Republic (37) and Guyana (40) demonstrated marginal improvements, each gaining a single point in their annual assessment.

    Canada (75), Uruguay (73), and Barbados (68) emerged as regional leaders in transparency standards, though the report cautioned that even these established democracies confront corruption-related violence and limited anti-graft progress. Conversely, Venezuela (10), Nicaragua (14), and Haiti (16) occupied the bottom positions, characterized by authoritarian repression, institutional collapse, and deeply embedded corrupt practices. Venezuela’s performance ranked among the three worst globally, exceeded only by Somalia and South Sudan.

    Particularly alarming was the continued deterioration of the United States, which scored 64 points—marking a one-point decline from the previous year and a substantial 12-point drop since 2015. Transparency International identified assaults on judicial independence, weakened enforcement of anti-corruption legislation, and reductions in international aid programs as primary contributing factors. Throughout the hemisphere, corruption persists in undermining essential public services, constricting civic freedoms, and eroding institutional accountability, generating severe consequences for citizens’ daily living conditions.

  • Minister reports sharp economic boost from Sugar Mas

    Minister reports sharp economic boost from Sugar Mas

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The National Carnival season has generated an extraordinary economic windfall for St. Kitts and Nevis, with official figures revealing a dramatic 35.9% increase in economic activity during the recent six-week celebration. Minister of the Creative Economy Samal Duggins unveiled these impressive results at a prize-giving ceremony on February 7th, highlighting how the festival has become an increasingly powerful economic engine for the Federation.

    The 2025/2026 Sugar Mas season generated a remarkable $29.5 million in total economic spending, substantially exceeding the previous year’s $21.7 million. This substantial growth has been primarily driven by a proliferation of private events throughout the busy Christmas and Carnival period, demonstrating how the festival has expanded beyond its traditional core activities.

    Minister Duggins emphasized that beyond the direct financial benefits, Sugar Mas continues to serve as a vital marketing platform that attracts international visitors during the winter months. The festival has significantly boosted arrivals from both major source markets and regional neighbors, enhancing the federation’s tourism profile.

    Participation metrics reached unprecedented levels, with over 10,000 revelers flooding the streets for J’Ouvert morning celebrations – some individual bands attracting more than 2,500 participants. The Grand Parade similarly drew massive crowds, with official counts exceeding 5,000 participants including international visitors from across the globe.

    The minister confirmed that private events expanded to 35 separate occasions this season, reflecting the festival’s growing popularity and creating broader opportunities for public engagement. This expansion contributed significantly to both attendance numbers and overall viewership metrics.

    Financial investments matched the festival’s growing scale, with participants sharing over EC$700,000 in prize money. The government demonstrated substantial commitment through direct cash support exceeding EC$500,000 to promoters, troupes, and participating bands for Sugar Mas 54.

    Minister Duggins concluded with an optimistic assessment: ‘I believe we can say fairly that our Sugar Mas product is indeed growing, and we are seeing that progress.’ The numbers clearly indicate that the carnival is evolving into a preferred destination for global revelers while delivering tangible economic benefits to the nation.