Carib Scope

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  • Healing of the Nation!!

    Healing of the Nation!!

    In a significant legislative development, Grenada’s Parliament has demonstrated unified concern for youth welfare while addressing cannabis decriminalization. During deliberations on the Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Amendment Bill on January 20, 2026, both government and opposition representatives reached consensus on relieving young people from criminal records for simple possession charges.

    Dr. Neals Chitan, an international crime reduction specialist who previously advised St. Kitts-Nevis on cannabis legislation in 2019, acknowledges the plant’s medicinal properties while emphasizing concerning neuroscientific findings. ‘Credible research indicates potentially devastating effects on the developing adolescent brain,’ notes Dr. Chitan, who holds a PhD in Social and Behavioural Sciences.

    The parliamentary discussion highlighted a paradigm shift toward addressing root causes rather than symptom management. Legislators recognized that emotional distress—stemming from dysfunctional homes, parental expectations, peer pressure, and various traumas—often drives youth toward marijuana’s temporary euphoria.

    Dr. Chitan warns of cyclical dependency: ‘The psychoactive effect temporarily rescues users from misery, but the subsequent crash leaves them craving another joint, creating an open door to addiction.’

    Instead of chemical relief, Grenada is pursuing substantive emotional health solutions. The Ministry of Mental Health and Religious Affairs is partnering with experts to launch a nationwide 2026 Emotional and Mental Health Community Empowerment Campaign across all 16 communities in Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.

    This initiative represents what Dr. Chitan identifies as ‘true healing’—teaching evidence-based strategies to address trauma sources rather than masking symptoms. The approach aligns with modern medical practice’s increased emphasis on prevention before prescription, despite allegations of pharmaceutical conspiracies.

    The comprehensive program aims to create emotionally resilient youth through mental health empowerment, ultimately fostering productive citizens with winning attitudes beyond temporary chemical relief.

  • COMMENTARY: Hayley Matthews – Refreshed and ready for 2026

    COMMENTARY: Hayley Matthews – Refreshed and ready for 2026

    After an unprecedented eleven-year non-stop career, West Indies women’s cricket captain Hayley Matthews has emerged from a forced hiatus with revitalized energy and sharpened focus. The Barbadian all-rounder, who debuted as a teenager in 2014, underwent shoulder surgery last summer following an injury sustained during England’s tour, granting her the first substantial break of her professional life.

    Matthews described the recovery period as “a bit different but really enjoyable” time spent with loved ones, noting it provided valuable perspective on her career achievements while fueling her hunger for future challenges. Her rehabilitation culminated in a return to competition through India’s Women’s Premier League, where she joins compatriots Deandra Dottin and Chinelle Henry.

    While Matthews recuperated, her teammates underwent an intensive eight-week High-Performance camp in Antigua from October to December. The captain praised their dedication to skill development and fitness, emphasizing the camp’s role in strengthening team culture and dynamics ahead of a demanding schedule.

    The West Indies face a formidable 2026 itinerary featuring series against Sri Lanka, Australia, Ireland, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe across formats, with the T20 World Cup in England as the centerpiece. Matthews, whose match-winning performance secured the 2016 T20 World Cup title, believes her squad has evolved significantly since their semi-final finish in the last tournament.

    A historic milestone awaits the team with their first Test match since 2004, facing Australia exactly fifty years after their inaugural series. Matthews expressed particular excitement about this opportunity, noting it will be the first Test experience for every squad member and represents profound honor and growth potential.

    The captain also highlighted the importance of the new ICC Women’s Championship cycle, targeting crucial points against teams like Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Ireland. Now 27 and refreshed by her break, Matthews returns with clarified perspective and determination to lead West Indies women’s cricket into its next successful chapter.

  • J W Fletcher wins $7K in GFNC’s High School Snack Attack

    J W Fletcher wins $7K in GFNC’s High School Snack Attack

    In a celebration of youthful innovation and nutritional excellence, J W Fletcher Catholic Secondary School claimed top honors at the Grenada Food and Nutrition Council’s High School Snack Attack Competition on January 15, 2026. The triumphant team secured a $7,000 prize alongside a commemorative plaque for their outstanding performance.

    The competition, hosted at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room within Grand Anse’s Galleria Mall, showcased five secondary schools competing through culinary creativity and entrepreneurial vision. Fletcher Catholic’s winning entry, ‘Fruity Fusion Gummies,’ distinguished itself through exceptional presentation, strategic branding, and market-ready execution. The product featured 100% natural flavors and sweeteners, packaged in environmentally conscious orange-and-white recyclable containers bearing prominent ‘Product of Grenada’ labeling.

    GFNC CEO Lydia Browne characterized the event as profoundly rewarding, noting: ‘The demonstrated innovation and camaraderie exceeded expectations. Several products exhibit strong potential for commercial development beyond school environments to broader Grenadian markets.’

    The initiative aimed to transform youth perspectives on food—emphasizing creativity, cultural significance, and health benefits while promoting local agriculture and national identity. Students received guidance from educator Kaylee Redhead and GFNC mentor Masha Benjamin-Hunte, with team members Joshua Williams-James, Tai Alexander, Amaiyah Charles, John Hazzard, and Grace Charles delivering a professionally energetic sales pitch.

    Judging criteria encompassed ingredient quality, taste profiles, nutritional value, market viability, and production feasibility. The evaluation panel included Nekisha McDonald (Ministry of Finance), Amiesha Persaud (Grenada Bureau of Standards), TAMCC culinary faculty Rosamond Francis and Raquesha Peters, plus student judges Heavenly Primus and Tariq Noel.

    Adding democratic engagement, primary students from Grand Anse Private Academy and Calliste Government School served as impartial taste-testers. Presentation Brothers’ College secured the People’s Choice Award through combined paper ballot and digital QR code voting, earning an additional $1,000. Bishop’s College placed third with $1,500, while Grenada Boys’ Secondary School and Grenada Seventh-day Adventist Comprehensive School participated as finalists.

    The competition reinforces Grenada’s commitment to strengthening food security through youth engagement and nutritional education, aligning with GFNC’s ‘Eat Local’ initiative to enhance national food sovereignty.

  • Friends of Democracy aims to fill opposition gap, rejects coalition

    Friends of Democracy aims to fill opposition gap, rejects coalition

    A new political force has entered Barbados’ electoral arena as the Friends of Democracy (FOD) party announced its candidacy for the February 2026 general elections. The party’s central platform challenges what it describes as seven years of diminished democratic oversight under the ruling Barbados Labour Party’s uninterrupted governance.

    FOD President Karina Goodridge, in an exclusive interview following Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s announcement of the February 11 polling date, articulated her party’s mission to restore political equilibrium and institutional accountability. Despite the party’s recent formation, Goodridge emphasized their commitment to delivering a straightforward campaign message centered on governmental transparency and citizen representation.

    The political newcomer firmly rejected any potential coalition arrangements with other opposition groups, including the newly formed People’s Coalition for Progress alliance comprising the United Progressive Party, New National Party, and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party. Goodridge asserted that FOD’s philosophy is rooted in principle rather than political convenience.

    Goodridge highlighted the concerning democratic deficit resulting from the BLP’s consecutive electoral sweeps in 2018 and 2022, which left Parliament without an official opposition voice. She argued that this political monopoly has led to rushed legislative processes and inadequate public consultation on major bills, ultimately eroding public trust in governance institutions.

    The FOD leader outlined her party’s commitment to rigorous fiscal oversight, promising to ‘question every dollar spent’ and demand full disclosure on all major government projects. She emphasized that their approach would prioritize factual analysis and people-centered policies over political theatrics.

    Goodridge concluded that the upcoming election represents a critical juncture for Barbadian democracy—not merely about selecting a governing party but about reinstating balanced governance, protecting democratic institutions, and restoring citizens’ voices in the political process.

  • IN PICTURES: Happening Now- Official Funeral For Sir. Gerald Watt KC

    IN PICTURES: Happening Now- Official Funeral For Sir. Gerald Watt KC

    The Eastern Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is observing a day of solemn remembrance as it bids an official farewell to one of its most distinguished legal minds, the late Sir Gerald Watt KC. The state-sanctioned funeral, currently in progress, is drawing a confluence of the nation’s highest dignitaries, judicial figures, and citizens united in grief and respect.

    Sir Gerald Watt’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of the region’s jurisprudence. His career, spanning several decades, was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice and legal excellence. He served with immense distinction as a former President of the Senate and as a long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives, roles in which he was revered for his profound integrity, sharp intellect, and masterful command of parliamentary procedure. His contributions extended beyond the legislature into the courtroom, where he was a formidable and highly respected King’s Counsel, shaping landmark cases and mentoring generations of legal professionals.

    The official funeral ceremony, imbued with full state honors, reflects the magnitude of his service to the nation. The proceedings include solemn tributes, a gun salute, and the draping of the national flag over his coffin, symbolizing the country’s deep gratitude. Eulogies from the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice are highlighting his pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions and his profound personal impact on all who knew him.

    This event transcends a mere funeral; it is a national moment of reflection on the values of service, principle, and dedication that Sir Gerald Watt embodied. His passing signifies the loss of a foundational pillar in the Commonwealth’s legal community, but his extensive work and ethical standards leave an indelible blueprint for future leaders in law and governance.

  • UWI Toronto Benefit Awards announces list of honorees for 2026

    UWI Toronto Benefit Awards announces list of honorees for 2026

    Toronto prepares to host the prestigious 17th annual University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This year’s ceremony, themed “Unlocking Brilliance,” will recognize outstanding contributors who have supported scholarship opportunities for Caribbean students pursuing higher education.

    The black-tie gala, commencing at 5:30 PM EST, represents UWI’s ongoing commitment to fostering talent, leadership, and opportunity throughout the Caribbean and its global diaspora. Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Patron of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards, emphasized the event’s significance: “This is a powerful night of purpose and pride. For 16 years, Canadians have supported ensuring Caribbean students fulfill their educational dreams. Now more than ever, we must stand firm in unity believing education will change the world.”

    The 2026 honorees include remarkable figures from various sectors. Mrs. Ayesha Curry receives the Luminary Award for her entrepreneurial achievements and health advocacy, while Ms. Tonya Williams, O.C., earns the same honor for her groundbreaking work promoting diversity in media. Mr. Sam Ibrahim will accept the G. Raymond Chang Award for his philanthropic community development efforts.

    Institutional recognition goes to the Black Opportunity Fund and Lifelong Leadership Institute (Chancellor’s Award), both celebrated for creating economic and educational opportunities. The Vice-Chancellor’s Award distinguishes The Honourable Marci Ien for her public service advocacy and The Honourable Justice Donald F. McLeod for advancing judicial equity. Sagicor receives the Patron’s Award for its longstanding educational support.

    Beyond scholarship funding, event chair Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind announced that portions of the 2026 proceeds will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in Jamaican communities. Since its inception, the benefit has awarded over 1,000 scholarships, maintaining its vital role in promoting educational access across the Caribbean region.

    The evening’s schedule includes a media session (6:00-6:30 PM), red carpet cocktail hour (5:30-7:00 PM), awards ceremony with entertainment (7:00-10:00 PM), and post-event celebrations continuing until midnight.

  • Arsenal stay perfect while Man City get stunned

    Arsenal stay perfect while Man City get stunned

    The seventh matchday of the UEFA Champions League group stage delivered a spectacle of footballing drama, showcasing both dominant displays from European giants and historic victories for underdog clubs.

    In Milan, Arsenal continued their flawless campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Inter, powered by a first-half brace from Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward ended his Champions League scoring drought with two precise finishes inside the box. Despite a ferocious equalizer from Petar Sučić and a double save required from David Raya to deny Federico Dimarco, the Gunners sealed their perfect record through substitute Viktor Gyökeres, whose exquisite curled effort in the 84th minute condemned Inter to their third consecutive defeat.

    Real Madrid delivered a masterclass in attack, overwhelming Monaco 5-1 in a stunning response to their previous loss against Manchester City. Kylian Mbappé tormented his former club with two first-half goals, setting the stage for a second-half onslaught. Franco Mastantuono, an unfortunate Thilo Kehrer own goal, and a sublime top-corner strike from Vinícius Júnior extended the lead before Jude Bellingham capped the emphatic performance, rendering Jordan Teze’s consolation goal irrelevant.

    Historical breakthroughs were achieved elsewhere. Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt secured their first-ever Champions League victory with a impressive 3-1 display against the 2023 winners, Manchester City. Kasper Høgh’s quick double and a magnificent Jens Petter Hauge strike proved insurmountable, even after Rayan Cherki’s reply and Rodri’s dismissal for the visitors.

    Club Brugge ended their winless streak with a commanding 4-1 away victory in Astana. A powerful Aleksandar Stanković strike opened the floodgates, followed by goals from Hans Vanaken, Romeo Vermant, and Brandon Mechele, showcasing a dominant team performance before a late consolation from Adilet Sadybekov.

    Dramatic late goals defined other contests. Substitute Oliver Edvardsen became Ajax’s hero, scoring in the dying moments to secure a 2-1 comeback win against Villarreal after Oscar Gloukh’s free-kick had canceled out Tani Oluwaseyi’s opener. In Copenhagen, ten-man Napoli thought they had secured victory through Scott McTominay’s header, but a resilient defensive effort and a rebound penalty conversion by substitute Jordan Larsson earned the hosts a crucial point.

    Further highlights included Luis Suárez inspiring Sporting to a dramatic 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain with a late header, and Tottenham Hotspur enhancing their top-eight prospects with a 2-0 victory over Dortmund, capitalizing on Daniel Svensson’s red card.

  • Snap election call sparks voter doubt and apathy

    Snap election call sparks voter doubt and apathy

    A palpable sense of voter disillusionment and political detachment is sweeping through Barbados as citizens react to the announcement of an unexpected snap election. At Skymall in Haggatt Hall, shoppers voiced profound concerns about democratic participation, with many questioning whether their ballots would yield any meaningful impact given the compressed timeframe and perceived lack of substantive policy alternatives.

    Steven Tutu articulated constitutional concerns regarding the accelerated electoral timeline, suggesting it undermines informed decision-making. “The results appear predetermined,” he remarked, criticizing opposition parties for focusing on governmental shortcomings rather than presenting distinctive policy visions. “I need to understand what alternative approaches you propose, not merely what the incumbent administration is doing incorrectly.”

    George Lowe exemplified deeper disengagement, declaring complete political neutrality rooted in historical disappointment. Recalling the devastating 1970 floods that destroyed his possessions, he recounted empty promises from visiting politicians. “They offered sympathy but delivered no substantive assistance. Consequently, I remain detached from electoral proceedings—my daily responsibilities persist regardless of political developments.”

    David Walkes characterized the election announcement as simultaneously anticipated and startling. He emphasized the electorate’s insufficient preparation period, analogizing the situation to “being invited to lunch without knowledge of the menu.” His primary concerns involved Barbados’s global economic positioning and domestic business contraction, noting, “Numerous enterprises are disappearing from our commercial landscape. We require comprehensive strategies addressing these economic challenges.”

    Among other shoppers, perspectives ranged from blunt disinterest to cautious optimism. Jason Best dismissed voting’s personal relevance while one anonymous woman maintained hope that participation might catalyze desired changes. A retired respondent prioritized jigsaw puzzles over polling stations, suggesting political engagement diminishes with age. Ronald Best, a long-term U.S. resident, praised Prime Minister Mottley’s leadership despite his ineligibility to vote.

    The collective sentiment reveals a democratic system experiencing significant stress, with voters expressing frustration over procedural transparency, substantive policy debates, and tangible electoral outcomes.

  • Andrew confident ahead of crucial South Africa match

    Andrew confident ahead of crucial South Africa match

    Despite a significant setback in their previous match, the West Indies Under-19 cricket team is channeling confidence as they prepare for a decisive Group D encounter against South Africa in the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Captain Jewel Andrew has publicly affirmed the squad’s resilient morale, identifying the upcoming Thursday fixture as critical for their aspirations to advance to the tournament’s Super Six phase.

    The Caribbean side’s campaign began promisingly with a five-wicket victory over Tanzania. However, their momentum was abruptly halted by a heavy 138-run defeat to Afghanistan. This result has positioned the team third in their group with two points, narrowly trailing South Africa on net run rate while undefeated Afghanistan leads with four points.

    In a tactical post-match analysis, Captain Andrew pinpointed a crucial period where his team lost control against Afghanistan. He acknowledged that while the powerplay was effectively managed, the team’s delayed adaptation to the pitch conditions proved costly. ‘The wicket was slow and low, which is something we are accustomed to in the Caribbean. I believe we took too long to adjust to familiar conditions, and that ultimately hampered our performance,’ Andrew stated.

    The wicketkeeper-batsman also suggested a strategic misstep in bowling choices, indicating that introducing spin bowling earlier might have yielded better results. He emphasized the importance of tactical flexibility moving forward, noting the effectiveness of spin in the previous match.

    Beyond technical adjustments, Andrew highlighted the team’s psychological preparedness. He described a supportive environment where players look to each other for solutions under coach guidance. The captain emphasized that solid preparation provides foundation for confidence, which will be essential against South Africa.

    In other tournament developments, the New Zealand-Bangladesh match in Bulawayo was abandoned without result due to weather conditions. Meanwhile, Australia demonstrated strong form with an eight-wicket victory over Japan in Windhoek, propelled by opener Will Malajczuk’s commanding century of 102 runs.

    The group stage continues with Afghanistan positioned to secure their Super Six qualification with a victory over Tanzania on Wednesday, while Group C features a contest between unbeaten England and Scotland.

  • Sandals/SLNCA U19 Cricket Tournament returns January 25

    Sandals/SLNCA U19 Cricket Tournament returns January 25

    Saint Lucia’s cricket development pathway receives significant reinforcement as the Sandals/SLNCA Under-19 Cricket Tournament returns on January 25. This prestigious national competition has established itself as the premier platform for emerging cricketing talent, with numerous alumni progressing to represent Saint Lucia, Windward Islands, and the West Indies senior teams.

    Eight district teams—Gros Islet, Babonneau, Central Castries, South Castries, Mabouya, Mon Repos, Choiseul, and Soufrière—will compete across four premier venues: Mindoo Phillip Park, Wenn Playing Field, Phillip Marcellin Grounds, and Piaye Playing Field. This strategic venue selection ensures broad community participation and accessibility for supporters to witness the nation’s most promising young cricketers.

    The upcoming tournament builds upon an exceptionally competitive 2025 edition that concluded with Gros Islet and Central Castries sharing championship honors, demonstrating the remarkably balanced talent distribution across participating regions.

    Sunil Ramdeen, Sandals Resorts Regional Public Relations Manager for the Eastern Caribbean, reaffirmed the organization’s long-term commitment to youth development through cricket. “We have witnessed tremendous pride in observing how this tournament systematically prepares young Saint Lucian athletes for advancement to national, territorial, and regional teams. Our investment in community development remains unwavering, and we celebrate this exemplary partnership with SLNCA.”

    SLNCA President Wayne Auguste emphasized the tournament’s structural importance, stating: “This competition constitutes a fundamental component of our player development ecosystem. It creates an essential transition between school cricket and senior competition, enabling talent identification, instilling professional values, and exposing prospects to high-caliber national matches. We profoundly appreciate Sandals Resorts’ sustained partnership and developmental investment, which crucially strengthens the future of Saint Lucian and Windward Islands cricket.”