Carib Scope

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  • Flava Food Village debut a success

    Flava Food Village debut a success

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival 2026 has witnessed the spectacular success of its newest attraction, the Flava Food Village, which has rapidly become a cornerstone of the cultural celebrations. The venue reached new heights during Patrice Roberts’ “Always Us” concert on January 22nd at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, where thousands of attendees enjoyed a night of electrifying performances completely free of charge.

    Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin, alongside National Carnival Commission (NCC) chairman Peter Kanhai and other dignitaries, personally experienced the vibrant atmosphere among the massive crowd. Benjamin declared the event “nothing short of incredible,” emphasizing the dual benefits of cultural celebration and economic stimulation for local vendors.

    The Minister highlighted the innovative approach of the new NCC Board and ministry stakeholders in creating this platform that simultaneously showcases Trinidad’s culinary arts, cultural identity, and community development. “This year, through the addition of Flava Food Village we have made a difference, we have made an unforgettable impact,” Benjamin stated in an official release.

    The overwhelming public response has been particularly significant given initial criticisms regarding logistical changes to this year’s Carnival production. Benjamin extended special gratitude to Patrice Roberts and her band for their initiative in organizing the free concert, which featured both emerging and established local artists, creating an unparalleled display of Trinidadian talent and energy.

    The Flava Food Village represents a strategic evolution in Carnival programming, successfully blending gastronomic experiences with musical performances while maintaining accessibility through free admission. This innovative model has established a new standard for cultural events in the region, demonstrating how cultural preservation and economic development can coexist harmoniously.

  • Bishop Anstey, QRC get tight wins to start water polo season

    Bishop Anstey, QRC get tight wins to start water polo season

    The 2026 Republic Bank Aquatics Sports Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ASATT) National Secondary Schools Water Polo League commenced with spectacular matches at two national venues, showcasing emerging aquatic talent across multiple age divisions.

    Opening day at the National Aquatic Centre in Couva on January 17 featured nail-biting finishes in both girls’ and boys’ open categories. Bishop Anstey High School narrowly defeated Holy Name Convent 15-14 in a girls’ matchup that saw Abiah Halls deliver a spectacular fourth-quarter performance, scoring five of her six total goals to overcome an 11-8 deficit. Despite Mia Thomas’ impressive eight-goal contribution, Holy Name fell just short in the closing moments.

    The boys’ open division witnessed Queen’s Royal College withstand a late rally from St Mary’s College to secure an 18-15 victory. QRC established dominance through middle quarters, building a 17-12 advantage powered by Javier Jordan’s seven goals and Aaron Villafana’s six goals. Though St Mary’s mounted a final-quarter comeback, QRC maintained their lead for the win.

    Action shifted to Diego Martin Community Pool on January 18 for Form One competitions, where multiple schools demonstrated their developing talent. Diego Martin Central edged Bishop Anstey 8-7 despite Gia-Marie Plaza’s six-goal effort for BAHS, with Taleyah Baker’s hat-trick proving decisive.

    Diego Martin continued their strong showing with a 15-5 victory over St Mary’s in boys’ Form One play, fueled by Keston Brisaan’s remarkable nine-goal performance supplemented by Andriel Williams’ four goals. Fatima College delivered the most dominant performance of the day, overwhelming Trinity College Moka 20-5 behind Taylon Diaz’s 11-goal explosion and Bradley Alexander’s five goals.

    Additional Form One results saw Holy Name defeat Providence Girls’ Catholic School 11-4 with Ariya Bolai De Matas scoring seven goals, while St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain shut out Corpus Christi College 10-0 with Cacique Darbeau (4 goals) and Alyx Campbell (3 goals) leading the offense.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Saturday January 24th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Saturday January 24th 2026

    The global dietary supplement industry, valued at over $50 billion, operates in a regulatory gray zone that continues to challenge consumers and health professionals alike. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs that require rigorous FDA approval for safety and efficacy, supplements enter the market under the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which places the burden of proof on regulators rather than manufacturers.

    This regulatory framework means supplements can be marketed without pre-market approval, provided they don’t claim to treat specific diseases. The industry has exploded with products ranging from vitamins and minerals to botanicals, amino acids, and proprietary blends, often marketed with structure/function claims that promise general wellness benefits rather than medical outcomes.

    Recent developments have highlighted growing concerns about product safety, ingredient transparency, and misleading marketing practices. The FDA maintains oversight through post-market surveillance, but can only take action against products proven to be unsafe or misbranded after they reach consumers. This reactive approach has led to calls for stricter manufacturing standards and more transparent labeling requirements from medical associations and consumer advocacy groups.

    Experts emphasize that while some supplements demonstrate benefits for specific populations (such as folic acid for pregnant women or vitamin D for those with deficiencies), many products lack substantial clinical evidence. Consumers are advised to consult healthcare providers before beginning any supplement regimen, particularly when combining multiple products or taking them alongside prescription medications where dangerous interactions may occur.

    The digital marketplace has further complicated the landscape, with social media influencers and online retailers accelerating the distribution of products that may contain undisclosed ingredients or contaminants. International regulatory bodies are increasingly collaborating to address cross-border e-commerce challenges and harmonize safety standards in this rapidly evolving wellness sector.

  • Cooper, Ramharack shine in third-place match at T20 Blaze … Positive end for Divas

    Cooper, Ramharack shine in third-place match at T20 Blaze … Positive end for Divas

    In a dramatic conclusion to their Women’s T20 Blaze campaign, the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force Divas clinched third place with a hard-fought seven-run victory against Guyana on January 23 in St Vincent. The match showcased exceptional bowling performances and strategic gameplay that kept spectators on edge until the final delivery.

    Batting first, TT posted a competitive 104/7 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks primarily to Britney Cooper’s impressive 46-run contribution. Supporting acts came from Djenaba Joseph (15) and Karishma Ramharack (13), who helped build a defendable total against Guyana’s bowling attack led by Ashmini Munisar’s dominant 4/15 spell.

    Guyana’s chase began promisingly but faltered against TT’s spin-dominated counterattack. Off-spinner Karishma Ramharack emerged as the bowling protagonist with remarkable figures of 3/13, receiving substantial support from Lee-Ann Kirby (2/10), Shalini Samaroo (2/16), and veteran spinner Anisa Mohammed (2/17). Despite Shabika Gajnabi’s resilient 32-run effort, Guyana fell short at 97 all out in 19.4 overs.

    In the day’s other fixture, Jamaica concluded their tournament in fifth position with a commanding ten-wicket triumph over Windward Islands Women. Jamaica’s bowlers restricted Windwards to 62/9 in 20 overs before achieving the target in just 3.4 overs without losing a wicket, demonstrating complete dominance in their final appearance.

  • Lone survivor: $m payment, ‘breath of fresh air’

    Lone survivor: $m payment, ‘breath of fresh air’

    Christopher Boodram, the lone survivor of the devastating 2022 Paria diving incident, has characterized the Trinidad and Tobago government’s $1 million ex gratia payment as a “breath of fresh air” during a January 23 appearance on the state-operated TTT’s TT Today program.

    Boodram revealed his continued inability to resume work since the February 25, 2022 tragedy that claimed the lives of four fellow divers—Faizal Kurban, Yusuff Henry, Rishi Nagessar, and Kazim Ali Jr. The maintenance operation on a 30-inch subsea pipeline at Berth 6 in Pointe-a-Pierre turned catastrophic when a sudden differential pressure event (Delta P) violently pulled the crew into the conduit.

    “My capacity to practice my professional skills remains compromised,” Boodram explained. “This created severe financial strain as all responsibilities—bills, loans, and household expenses—fell solely upon my wife. This compensation represents crucial relief.”

    The survivor disclosed deepened bonds with the families of his deceased colleagues, noting the payments would substantially aid their financial stability after losing primary earners. He expressed particular gratitude to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her cabinet for approving the disbursement.

    Boodram offered sharp criticism toward the previous administration, accusing them of treating affected families “like dogs” through inadequate support and political manipulation. He described a scripted meeting with former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley that allowed minimal genuine dialogue, and condemned subsequent leader Stuart Young for allegedly using the tragedy as “an election gimmick.”

    Young, interviewed outside the Red House, acknowledged satisfaction that families received payments originally approved by his cabinet in April 2025, though he characterized the current administration’s action as “nothing new.” He referenced governmental challenges in navigating legal complexities while attempting to provide interim support during ongoing court proceedings.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar personally distributed payments to Boodram and two families at the Diplomatic Centre on January 22, with confirmation that remaining families would receive compensation shortly.

  • UWI rises in global ranking

    UWI rises in global ranking

    The University of the West Indies (UWI) has achieved a remarkable milestone in global higher education, securing a position within the top 3.6% of universities worldwide according to the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026. This accomplishment places UWI among 2,191 elite institutions selected from over 33,000 degree-granting universities across 115 countries.

    The THE rankings, recognized as the gold standard in academic excellence evaluation, assess institutions based on comprehensive performance indicators including teaching quality, research environment, knowledge transfer capabilities, and international outlook. UWI’s consistent upward trajectory in these rankings demonstrates its growing global influence and academic prowess.

    Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles attributed this success to the university’s strategic focus on enhancing intellectual productivity and expanding global partnerships. “Our steadfast adherence to our strategic plan has proven instrumental in building our scholastic brand and international profile,” Beckles stated. “These results reflect the substantial collective input of our academic community.”

    The university has shown significant improvements across multiple metrics, particularly in research quality and international engagement. Scholars have demonstrated enhanced research output, resulting in increased recognition and impact of publications and academic presentations. The institution’s global outlook has similarly expanded, evidenced by growing scholarly impact, international collaborations, and participation in elite intellectual networks.

    Despite operating within considerable fiscal constraints, UWI continues to make substantial contributions across diverse fields including climate change research, public health initiatives, arts and culture narratives, economic development studies, and social justice paradigms. This achievement gains additional significance as the university approaches its centenary in 2048.

    Established in 1948 as a college of the University of London with merely 33 medical students, UWI has evolved into an internationally respected institution with nearly 50,000 students across five Caribbean campuses and global centers spanning North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe. The university offers over 800 academic programs spanning culture, creative arts, agriculture, engineering, humanities, law, medical sciences, and technology.

    Beyond its THE ranking success, UWI maintains its position as the Caribbean’s leading university and ranks among the top 25 institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean. It consistently receives recognition in THE’s Impact Rankings for addressing global challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas of Good Health and Wellbeing, Gender Equality, and Climate Action.

  • Jamal, Ding Dong for inaugural Clarendon Jerk Fest

    Jamal, Ding Dong for inaugural Clarendon Jerk Fest

    Lance Roache, a returning resident who spent years in Canada after migrating in 2007, is channeling his childhood aspirations into a groundbreaking community event. The inaugural Clarendon Jerk Festival, set for April 4 at Woodleigh Sports Complex, aims to fulfill his long-held vision of creating family-oriented entertainment in his hometown.

    This culinary and cultural celebration forms part of the broader ‘Coolest Weekend Ever’ festival running from April 3-6, which features six distinct events including Coffee Break, Rum Army Ambush, and FBI Pon Di River Soca Fete. The Jerk Festival will showcase performances by dancehall stars Jamal, Ding Dong, and Ravers Clan.

    Roache, an alumnus of Edwin Allen and Garvey Maceo high schools, conceptualized the event as both a tribute to Jamaica’s culinary traditions and an economic catalyst for Clarendon. “This festival was created to celebrate Jamaica’s rich jerk heritage while positioning Clarendon as a major cultural destination,” Roache explained to the Jamaica Observer.

    The event anticipates 10-20 vendors featuring jerk specialists, beverage providers, artisans, and small businesses with emphasis on local Clarendon participants. Beyond immediate economic benefits through vendor sales and temporary employment, organizers project increased transportation usage, accommodation demand, and visitor spending throughout the parish.

    Attendees can expect an extensive culinary journey featuring jerk preparations of chicken, pork, fish, turkey, lamb, duck, goat, beef, oxtail, and seafood alongside traditional sides, vegan options, and desserts with jerk-inspired creativity. The programming carefully balances daytime family activities with evening entertainment transitions.

    The daytime segment commencing at 11:00 AM features dedicated children’s zones with face painting, fun rides, bouncing castles, and interactive games. Senior citizens will receive complimentary health services including diabetes and blood pressure checks. Additional attractions include jerk cooking competitions, interactive game zones, and community activities with gate prizes.

    As evening approaches, the focus shifts to live performances while maintaining family-friendly security standards. Roache emphasized the professional execution: “While a new branded experience, it’s managed by teams with expertise in event planning, logistics, and large-scale community engagements using international best practices.”

    Funding derives from private investment, vendor participation, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships, representing substantial investment in infrastructure, staging, security, and marketing. The festival specifically targets tourists seeking authentic Jamaican experiences alongside corporate partners aligned with cultural development.

  • Djokovic ‘hanging in there’ after landmark 400th Slam win

    Djokovic ‘hanging in there’ after landmark 400th Slam win

    MELBOURNE, Australia — Tennis legend Novak Djokovic achieved an unprecedented milestone Saturday at the Australian Open, becoming the first player in history to secure 400 Grand Slam match victories. The 38-year-old Serbian champion demonstrated his enduring prowess with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) triumph over Dutch competitor Botic van de Zandschulp before an enthusiastic center court audience.

    This landmark victory extends Djokovic’s existing record for major tournament wins, placing him significantly ahead of tennis greats Roger Federer (369) and Serena Williams (365). The win also marked his 102nd career victory at Melbourne Park, where he has claimed ten titles, tying Federer’s record for most Australian Open singles wins.

    Despite his historic achievement, Djokovic maintained a pragmatic perspective, acknowledging the rising dominance of younger competitors Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. “I’m still trying to give these young guys a push for their money,” Djokovic remarked. “I’m still around. I’m hanging in there. Obviously Alcaraz and Sinner are the two best players in the world right now, performing at a different level from the rest of us.”

    The match itself presented challenges for the fourth-seeded champion. After establishing control in the first set with a critical break following an exhausting 26-point rally, Djokovic displayed visible frustration during the second set, nearly striking a ball kid with an errant shot toward advertising boards. The third set required medical attention for a foot issue following an awkward fall, though Djokovic humorously noted he “managed a good fall” that prevented more serious injury.

    Djokovic now advances to a fourth-round encounter against either Czech emerging talent Jakub Mensik or American newcomer Ethan Quinn, whose match was postponed due to extreme heat conditions. The 24-time major champion remains cautiously optimistic about his tournament prospects, reflecting on last year’s semifinal exits across all four majors. “Last year I got too excited, too early in some of the Grand Slams,” he admitted. “I’m not getting ahead of myself this time.”

  • ‘Heartbroken’ Osaka pulls out of Australian Open injured

    ‘Heartbroken’ Osaka pulls out of Australian Open injured

    MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open tournament was dealt a significant blow Saturday when four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka withdrew from competition due to an abdominal injury, abruptly ending her comeback campaign. The Japanese tennis star made the emotional announcement hours before her scheduled third-round match against Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis on Melbourne’s center court.

    In a heartfelt Instagram statement, the 16th-seeded Osaka revealed: “I’ve had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to address something my body needs attention for after my last match. This run meant the most to me, so having to stop here breaks my heart. But I can’t risk doing any further damage so I can get back on court.”

    The two-time Australian Open champion (2019, 2021) later elaborated to media representatives that this was a recurring injury she had experienced “a couple of times before.” Osaka explained she had attempted to play through the discomfort, noting: “I played my last match with some pain, and I thought maybe if I gave myself a break before my match today, I would be able to handle it. But I warmed up and it got a lot worse.”

    The 28-year-old athlete, who recently returned to professional tennis after becoming a mother, acknowledged the physiological changes following pregnancy require heightened caution. She indicated plans to undergo further medical evaluation to assess the injury properly.

    Despite her premature exit, Osaka left an indelible mark on this year’s tournament. Her first-round appearance generated viral attention when she debuted a striking “jellyfish-inspired” ensemble featuring a white umbrella, matching wide-brimmed hat, long gauzy veil, and turquoise dress over pleated white trousers.

    Her campaign wasn’t without controversy, however. During her second-round match, Osaka found herself at the center of a dispute with veteran opponent Sorana Cirstea. The Romanian player took exception to Osaka shouting encouragement between her first and second serves, breaching tennis etiquette. While initially dismissive during her on-court interview, Osaka subsequently apologized for what she acknowledged was “disrespectful” behavior. The incident drew criticism from tennis legends Martina Navratilova and Lindsay Davenport, who emphasized the importance of maintaining basic sportsmanship protocols during competition.

  • Defiant protests over US immigration crackdown, 5-y-o’s detention

    Defiant protests over US immigration crackdown, 5-y-o’s detention

    MINNEAPOLIS — A massive wave of civil dissent swept through Minneapolis on Friday as thousands of demonstrators defied freezing temperatures to condemn a federal immigration operation. The coordinated public outcry, which prompted numerous local businesses to temporarily close, was ignited by the controversial detention of a five-year-old migrant child, Liam Conejo Ramos.

    The operation, led by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has drawn intense scrutiny following revelations about the tactics employed during the arrest of Ramos and his Ecuadorian father, Adrian Conejo Arias. According to Columbia Heights Public Schools Superintendent Zena Stenvik, both asylum seekers were intercepted in their driveway upon returning home Tuesday. Stenvik further alleged that the young child was utilized as ‘bait’ by officers to lure other individuals from their residence.

    This incident has amplified existing tensions surrounding the weeks-long federal operation in Minnesota, which had already faced criticism after an ICE agent fatally shot a US citizen during the crackdown. The circulation of images depicting a visibly terrified Ramos in custody has become a potent symbol for protesters, many of whom carried signs referencing the child’s age.

    While Vice President JD Vance, during a Thursday visit to Minneapolis, confirmed Ramos’s detention, he defended federal agents’ actions, suggesting they were protecting the child after his father attempted to flee. ‘What are they supposed to do? Are they supposed to let a five-year-old child freeze to death?’ Vance stated.

    The operation has attracted international attention, with UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk urging US authorities to cease what he described as ‘harmful treatment of migrants and refugees.’ Current ICE records indicate Arias is being held at a Texas detention facility, though the database does not disclose the location of minors in custody.