Carib Scope

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  • Vusi Thembekwayo sets the tone at Sagicor’s annual ‘Blast Off’ event

    Vusi Thembekwayo sets the tone at Sagicor’s annual ‘Blast Off’ event

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Sagicor Group Jamaica convened its largest corporate assembly since 2018, drawing more than 2,500 employees to the National Indoor Sports Centre on January 14 for its annual “Blast Off” event. The gathering, orchestrated under the unifying banner “One Sagicor: One Team, One Future,” served as a powerful demonstration of the financial conglomerate’s expansive growth and deepening internal cohesion across its diverse business divisions, establishing a resolutely ambitious trajectory for the year 2026.

    Christopher Zacca, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sagicor Group Jamaica, addressed the assembled workforce, emphasizing the critical importance of organizational alignment and shared accountability in driving future success. “Blast Off 2026 fundamentally serves to reinforce that our collective strength is rooted in our unity,” Zacca stated. He elaborated that while the specific challenges of the coming year remain uncertain, the company’s fortified collaborative spirit, disciplined execution, and mutual support would be the definitive factors navigating the organization forward.

    Zacca further outlined Sagicor’s dual-focused mandate for the year, which integrates robust commercial performance with sustained humanitarian efforts directed at communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa in October of the previous year. This commitment, he affirmed, is guided by the company’s core philosophical principles and its enduring dedication to fostering national and regional development throughout Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

    The event featured a keynote presentation by Vusi Thembekwayo, the internationally recognized entrepreneur and business strategist, who galvanized attendees with a call to embrace bold thinking and decisive action. Thembekwayo posited that truly successful enterprises are built by individuals who hold themselves accountable for concrete results, not merely their exertion of effort. He expressed strong confidence in the Sagicor team’s appetite for growth and their inherent capability to emerge as a regional leader.

    Andre Mousseau, President and CEO of parent company Sagicor Financial Company, utilized the platform to underscore the strategic significance of the recently announced merger consolidating the firm’s Caribbean operations. This transformative corporate restructuring, first disclosed on December 16, will amalgamate Sagicor Life Inc. and Sagicor Group Jamaica under a new singular holding architecture named Sagicor Group Caribbean (SGC). Pending necessary regulatory consents, this new entity—envisioned as a diversified financial services powerhouse offering integrated insurance, banking, and wealth management products—is slated for listing on the Jamaica Stock Exchange. Company leadership anticipates the merger will catalyze enhanced collaboration, accelerate professional development, and facilitate greater mobility for talent across the region.

  • ‘I Love Hip Hop’ connects with music fans in Kingston party scene

    ‘I Love Hip Hop’ connects with music fans in Kingston party scene

    Kingston’s music scene has enthusiastically embraced ‘I Love Hip Hop,’ a groundbreaking weekly celebration that honors the rich tapestry and enduring legacy of hip hop culture. Every Thursday evening, Jangas Soundbar in New Kingston transforms into a vibrant hub where enthusiasts gather to immerse themselves in the genre’s evolutionary journey.

    The event showcases an eclectic mix of musical eras, from the golden age of 1990s emcees to contemporary rap innovations. Attendees enthusiastically recreate iconic dance moves including ‘Crank That (Soulja Boy),’ ‘Walk It Out,’ and ‘The Wobble’ from the 2000s alongside synchronized line dances like the ‘Cha Cha Slide.’ The atmosphere buzzes with energy as participants demonstrate classic techniques such as the ‘Stanky Legg’ and ‘Lean Back.’

    Founded on December 4, 2025, by visionary organizer Tricia Stone in partnership with Starcore Productions, the series has rapidly evolved into a cultural institution. Stone describes the initiative as emerging from ‘a deep-rooted passion for hip-hop and its lasting cultural impact.’ She emphasizes, ‘My love for hip-hop runs deep, and it felt only fitting to create a space where that passion could be shared. I Love Hip Hop is more than an event—it’s a movement rooted in culture, connection, and evolution.’

    The carefully curated experience merges classic hip-hop sounds with contemporary nightlife aesthetics, attracting a diverse and dedicated audience. The event features an impressive rotation of talented DJs including Marc Chin of CopperShot, DJ Narity, and DJ Delano, each contributing their distinctive auditory signature. January’s lineup has particularly impressed attendees with standout performances from Sanjay and Delano, who made a memorable return alongside his son, DJ 3D. The month concludes with emerging talent Kevi Kinetic and resident DJ Bishop from Starcore Productions.

    Audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with patrons consistently praising the event’s energetic atmosphere, musical selection, and communal vibe. The series has developed a loyal following, with many attendees incorporating it into their weekly routines. Stone notes the encouraging mix of regular enthusiasts and new participants each week, indicating the event’s growing appeal within Kingston’s nightlife landscape. While currently hosted at Jangas Soundbar, organizers envision expanding the movement to reflect hip-hop’s continuously evolving nature.

  • 287 new constables to strengthen JCF’s operations

    287 new constables to strengthen JCF’s operations

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to national security capabilities, Jamaica is deploying 287 newly graduated police constables to operational duty. The officers, comprising Batches 161 and 162, were formally recognized during a passing out parade and awards ceremony at the National Police College of Jamaica in Twickenham Park on Wednesday.

    Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness addressed the graduating class, emphasizing their critical role as ambassadors of law, order, and public trust during a challenging security landscape. “You have chosen a path that demands courage, discipline, integrity, and service above self,” Holness stated, acknowledging the nation’s ongoing struggles with violence, organized crime, cybercrime, and post-disaster recovery demands.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that this cohort represents the second group trained under Jamaica’s revolutionary competency-based curriculum—a fundamental reform transitioning policing from a technical craft to a fully professionalized discipline. This educational shift focuses on student-centered learning tailored to the competencies required for modern democratic policing.

    Holness issued a compelling charge to the new constables, urging them to build effective community relationships, wear their uniforms with pride, and embody the values instilled during training. He specifically emphasized respecting the law they enforce, modeling expected disciplines, rejecting all forms of corruption, and leading by consistent example rather than following crowds.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police Merrick Watson, NPCJ Director, reinforced these messages, advising the graduates to exercise authority wisely while serving with discipline and integrity. The ceremony concluded with pledges from valedictorians Constables Julia Khani and Bryce Gay, who committed to serving with pride, integrity, and unwavering dedication to their nation.

  • Chinese community donates $1m to hurricane-hit St Mary’s Prep

    Chinese community donates $1m to hurricane-hit St Mary’s Prep

    MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Demonstrating remarkable solidarity, the Chinese community in Montego Bay has contributed a substantial $1 million donation to St Mary’s Preparatory and Kindergarten School to support recovery initiatives after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact. This philanthropic gesture represents a significant component of broader island-wide humanitarian efforts organized by the Chinese community, which has been actively providing financial aid, essential supplies, and various forms of assistance to educational institutions, organizations, and vulnerable populations throughout St James and western Jamaica following the catastrophic storm.

    Situated in Montpelier, St James, St Mary’s Preparatory and Kindergarten endured some of the most severe damage from Hurricane Melissa, sustaining extensive structural harm to its facilities, including destroyed classrooms, educational materials, and critical equipment. The institution faced additional setbacks due to post-hurricane looting, further exacerbating its already dire circumstances.

    The allocated funds will facilitate crucial restoration projects, encompassing repairs to compromised buildings, replacement of educational resources, and the rehabilitation of a secure and conducive learning atmosphere for students.

    Principal Dr. Anthony Taylor, speaking on behalf of the school community, conveyed profound gratitude for the timely support. ‘This extraordinary generosity arrived at precisely the moment when our school and families most needed hope,’ Dr. Taylor stated in an official school release. ‘The Chinese community has demonstrated that recovery transcends physical reconstruction—it involves restoring dignity, opportunity, and our children’s future.’

    Dr. Taylor further detailed the school’s commitment to transparent fund allocation, ensuring accountability and optimal utilization throughout the rebuilding process.

    Ziping Chen, representing the Chinese community, emphasized that the contribution reflects their organization’s dedication to reciprocating the support of their host community. ‘The Chinese community remains steadfast in its commitment to serving, rebuilding, and supporting Jamaica with compassion, dignity, and resilience,’ Chen affirmed.

    Dr. Taylor also acknowledged Javin Baker, councillor for the Cambridge Division, for his ongoing support during recovery operations and encouraged additional corporate and civic entities to join the reconstruction initiative.

    The Chinese community in Montego Bay has established a longstanding reputation for its active participation in national development and disaster response efforts. Their hurricane relief activities have included monetary donations, construction materials, food provisions, and other vital supplies to educational institutions, community organizations, and charitable entities across St James and other affected regions.

    Community leaders have praised this latest donation as an exemplary model of unity and collective responsibility. As St Mary’s Preparatory and Kindergarten progresses toward complete restoration, this contribution stands as a symbol of hope and a powerful testament to the efficacy of goodwill, collaboration, and community solidarity.

  • Baggage handler rescued after getting stuck in Air Canada cargo bay at takeoff

    Baggage handler rescued after getting stuck in Air Canada cargo bay at takeoff

    A routine departure from an Air Canada Rouge flight transformed into a harrowing rescue operation on December 13th after passengers aboard Flight 1502 heard desperate cries for help emanating from beneath their seats. The source of the distress was a baggage handler who had become trapped inside the aircraft’s cargo hold as the plane began its journey towards the runway.

    According to passenger accounts provided to CBC News, individuals seated near the rear of the plane first detected unusual noises during the initial stages of takeoff. Stephanie Cure, a traveler on the flight, described the sounds as ‘muffled cries,’ noting that the atmosphere in the cabin grew tense as fellow passengers became aware of the alarming situation. ‘You can hear some muffled, like someone yelling for help,’ Cure recounted.

    The alert was raised with the flight crew, prompting an immediate halt to the departure procedures. Passengers observed crew members gathering around the exterior of the aircraft to investigate the source of the commotion, initially unaware of the grave circumstances. Emergency protocols were swiftly enacted, leading to the successful extraction of the ground crew employee from the cargo compartment.

    In a gesture of transparency and reassurance, the rescued worker was escorted into the passenger cabin to demonstrate that he had emerged from the incident without physical injury. Following the emergency, the aircraft returned to the terminal gate where all passengers disembarked. After a delay of several hours, the airline ultimately made the decision to cancel the flight entirely.

    Air Canada has officially confirmed the incident in a released statement, identifying the individual as a member of their ground crew and confirming that a comprehensive investigation into the safety breach is currently underway. The event has raised significant questions regarding airport safety protocols and communication procedures between flight decks and ground operations teams.

  • Treasure Beach rally to beat Harbour View

    Treasure Beach rally to beat Harbour View

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a stunning reversal of fortune that will be remembered as one of the most remarkable comebacks in Jamaican football history, Treasure Beach FC engineered a spectacular second-half recovery to defeat Harbour View 4-3 in their Jamaica Premier League encounter on Thursday. The match, staged at Harbour View’s home ground, witnessed an unprecedented turnaround after the hosts established what appeared to be an insurmountable three-goal advantage by halftime.

    Harbour View’s dominance in the opening half was unmistakable, with Omar Thompson initiating the scoring in the fourth minute. Trayvone Reid extended the lead from the penalty spot in the 13th minute, followed by Rohan Brown’s ninth seasonal goal during added time, solidifying what seemed certain victory.

    The narrative shifted dramatically in the second half as Treasure Beach mounted an extraordinary resurgence. Chandol Anderson ignited the comeback with a 55th-minute penalty conversion, followed by Daniel Hardy narrowing the deficit to a single goal by the 65th minute. An own goal committed by Harbour View in the 83rd minute leveled the scoreline, setting the stage for Omari Brown’s decisive 86th-minute winner that completed the historic turnaround.

    This victory marks Treasure Beach’s second win in three matches, propelling them to 12th position with 18 points while demoting Harbour View to 13th place with 15 points. The result carries significant implications for both clubs’ relegation prospects as the season progresses.

    In concurrent Thursday fixtures, Mount Pleasant FA secured fourth position with 27 points after defeating Arnett Gardens 1-0 through Raheem Edwards’ first-half penalty conversion. Waterhouse climbed to ninth place following Denardo Thomas’ 17th-minute strike against Chapelton Maroons, while Portmore United and Molynes United settled for a 1-1 draw after Peter McGregor’s late equalizer canceled out Nicholas Nelson’s fourth goal in two matches. Racing United remained five points behind Montego Bay United after a scoreless draw with Tivoli Gardens.

  • Caribbean Conference Condemns US Attack

    Caribbean Conference Condemns US Attack

    In an unprecedented show of regional solidarity, political leaders, jurists, and civil society representatives from across the Caribbean and Latin America have issued a forceful condemnation of United States military operations against Venezuela. The collective denunciation emerged from the inaugural Regional Conference: The Voices of the Caribbean in Defence of Venezuela and International Law, convened on January 21, 2026.

    The landmark gathering assembled more than 180 delegates from over 20 nations, including Belize, Jamaica, Cuba, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago. The conference centered on reaffirming Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace while opposing external interventions perceived as threats to regional sovereignty.

    Participants attributed responsibility for a January 3, 2026 bombing incident in Venezuela to the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to conference statements, the military operation resulted in approximately 100 casualties and involved the extraordinary capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

    Delegates unanimously endorsed the creation of a regional solidarity network and committed to pursuing coordinated legal and diplomatic initiatives aimed at influencing foreign policy across Caribbean states. The conference declaration emphasized that this gathering represents the commencement of sustained legal action, public advocacy, and international engagement to preserve regional unity and peace principles.

    The joint statement concluded with a powerful affirmation: ‘The Caribbean stands together against external threats and for lasting peace,’ signaling a new chapter in regional cooperation and resistance to foreign intervention.

  • 154 men recruited for prostate cancer study

    154 men recruited for prostate cancer study

    In a landmark achievement for regional medical research, CariGenetics has successfully exceeded its recruitment objectives for the Caribbean Prostate Cancer Genomics Study in Saint Lucia. Within just one year of its January 2025 launch, the project enrolled 154 men across all designated participant categories: those diagnosed with prostate cancer, first-degree relatives of affected individuals, and control subjects without cancer history.

    This accomplishment represents a pivotal advancement in addressing the disproportionately high incidence of prostate cancer among Caribbean men, who experience more aggressive disease variants and poorer health outcomes compared to global populations. Despite meeting formal recruitment targets, the organization continues to accept eligible participants who have previously expressed interest.

    The overwhelming response demonstrates substantial community involvement and increasing public recognition of genetics’ role in shaping long-term health prospects. Participants received complimentary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings, early detection services, and genetic wellness evaluations providing personalized insights into DNA-based disease risks.

    Ongoing genetic analysis has already commenced, with preliminary findings being disseminated to participants. Subsequent research phases will concentrate on synthesizing genetic, clinical, and demographic data to enhance population-level comprehension of prostate cancer determinants throughout the Caribbean region.

    Buoyed by this success, CariGenetics plans to extend the study to Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago, forming part of a broader regional initiative. Future investigations will examine how results can refine risk prediction methodologies—including polygenic risk scores—and develop screening protocols specifically tailored for Caribbean demographics. Ultimately, researchers aim to integrate genomic advancements into regional healthcare infrastructure.

    Davy Frederick of GenTech Analytica, a collaborating partner, expressed astonishment at the exceptional participation rate, noting that engagement levels surpassed all anticipations despite genomics research being relatively novel in Saint Lucia. CariGenetics additionally recognized contributions from Laboratory Services & Consultations and healthcare professionals, reaffirming its dedication to ethical research practices and ensuring Caribbean communities benefit directly from genomic science innovations.

  • Study finds potential for over $1 billion in trade between African Union and CARICOM

    Study finds potential for over $1 billion in trade between African Union and CARICOM

    A groundbreaking economic partnership between Africa and the Caribbean is gaining momentum as new research reveals export opportunities exceeding $1.6 billion. The CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) presented findings indicating that African Union exports to CARICOM nations could dramatically transform regional supply chains and economic resilience.

    The revelations emerged during the inaugural AfriCaribbean Private Sector Webinar Series launched on January 20, 2026, titled “Unlocking AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment: Opportunities, Ecosystems and Private Sector Leadership.” This virtual gathering, jointly organized by the International Trade Centre, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), CPSO, and Africa Business Council, brought together over 200 private sector leaders, ministers, and development agencies from both regions.

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of strengthening Africa-CARICOM economic relations amid global trade disruptions. “Political leadership establishes the framework,” Minister Greene stated, “but it is businesses that drive innovation, generate trade volumes, mobilize investment, and create employment. If AfriCaribbean integration is to succeed in practical terms, it must now be carried forward by the private sector.”

    The comprehensive study, “Africa Union-CARICOM Trade in Goods: Scope and Potential,” identifies 579 competitively priced product lines that African nations can supply to Caribbean markets. Remarkably, at least 13 African Union countries can provide over $58 million worth of non-mineral fuel imports to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy at approximately 60% of current benchmark prices.

    Dr. Patrick Antoine, CPSO CEO and Technical Director, presented compelling market data showing that most identified products have sourcing options from at least four African countries, demonstrating remarkable supply diversity. “At moments like these, the role of the private sector becomes even more vital,” Dr. Antoine emphasized. “We must be prepared to respond with agility and seize opportunities wherever they emerge.”

    Despite the promising outlook, participants acknowledged significant challenges including limited transportation connectivity, elevated logistics costs, and fragmented payment systems. Anthony Ali, CEO of Goddard Enterprises Limited and CPSO board member, shared practical insights from direct African market engagement, highlighting opportunities for local production partnerships and reciprocal market presence.

    The webinar series will continue with focused sessions on agriculture, fashion and creative industries, cosmetics and wellness, and health technologies, further exploring sector-specific collaboration opportunities between the two regions.

  • Greene says shifting global trade environment has made stronger Africa Union-CARICOM economic relations an urgent necessity

    Greene says shifting global trade environment has made stronger Africa Union-CARICOM economic relations an urgent necessity

    In a significant address on the evolving global economic landscape, a prominent voice has highlighted the pressing need for strengthened economic cooperation between the African Union (AU) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The call to action is framed as a direct response to fundamental transformations within international trade frameworks and supply chain dynamics.

    The current geopolitical climate, characterized by increasing protectionism and regional realignments, has created both challenges and opportunities for emerging economies. This shifting environment necessitates the formation of strategic economic partnerships that can enhance collective bargaining power and foster sustainable development. The proposition emphasizes that deeper AU-CARICOM collaboration is no longer merely advantageous but has become an imperative for economic resilience.

    Such a partnership would potentially encompass expanded trade agreements, joint investment initiatives in key sectors like agriculture and renewable energy, and enhanced cultural and technological exchanges. This South-South cooperation model aims to reduce historical economic dependencies and create new pathways for shared prosperity. The argument posits that by uniting their considerable market potential and resources, these blocs can better navigate the complexities of contemporary global commerce and secure more favorable positions within it.