Carib Scope

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  • Ghanaian company to sign oil exploration agreement with Guyana

    Ghanaian company to sign oil exploration agreement with Guyana

    In a significant development for Guyana’s burgeoning energy sector, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat announced Friday that Ghana-based Cybele Energy Ltd will formally sign an oil exploration agreement for Block S7 next Tuesday. The agreement grants exploration rights to Cybele Energy in a substantial 2,000 square kilometer shallow water concession.

    The ministerial confirmation came during a press briefing primarily organized to announce preparations for Guyana’s 5th Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, scheduled for February 17-20, 2026. Minister Bharrat revealed that negotiations with Cybele Energy had reached advanced stages, with the company successfully finalizing all agreement terms with the Guyanese government.

    Notably, the fiscal framework remains consistent with Guyana’s established petroleum terms: 10% royalty payments, 10% corporate tax rate, 65% cost recovery provisions, and an equal 17.5% profit oil distribution between the government and venture partners. The minister indicated that while the core fiscal structure remains unchanged, certain administrative matters were subject to final negotiations, with full details to be disclosed during next week’s signing ceremony.

    This agreement marks Guyana’s second shallow water block signing within recent months, following last month’s agreement with a consortium comprising TotalEnergies, Malaysia’s Petronas, and Qatar Energy. Cybele Energy, established in 2012 under the leadership of founder and CEO Beatrice Mensah-Tayui, now enters Guyana’s competitive energy landscape as an emerging international player.

  • Massive Yorks Cleanup Nears Completion With Nearly 12 Tons of Waste Collected

    Massive Yorks Cleanup Nears Completion With Nearly 12 Tons of Waste Collected

    The transformative ‘Love where You Live!’ campaign has successfully concluded its operations across multiple districts in Yorks, marking a significant achievement in urban revitalization. Municipal crews executed an extensive cleanup operation spanning from Fort James Drive through Anchorage Road to Mckinnons Pond and Old Runaway, resulting in the collection of 11.8 tons of accumulated bulk waste from public spaces, residential properties, and neglected lots.

    Comprehensive environmental improvements included the clearance of forty-four vacant plots that had become overrun with debris, uncontrolled vegetation, and potential safety hazards. The initiative also facilitated the removal of thirty-three abandoned vehicles as of December 4th, 2025, substantially enhancing both safety protocols and community aesthetics.

    Additional landscape management involved systematic tree trimming and vegetation control throughout the targeted areas, significantly improving visibility for pedestrians and motorists while elevating the overall visual appeal of the neighborhood.

    The Municipal Authority has announced the campaign’s expansion into Point and central St. John’s, urging residents to properly dispose of waste materials during scheduled collection periods to maintain the newly restored environment. Officials specifically request that community members refrain from placing additional bulk waste on curbsides or exterior home areas after the cleanup teams depart. Instead, residents should contact the Authority directly at 562-2019 to arrange professional collection services for any subsequently accumulated waste, ensuring sustained cleanliness and hygiene standards across the municipality.

  • PM Skerrit joins PM-elect Phillip J. Pierre in St Lucia for swearing in ceremony

    PM Skerrit joins PM-elect Phillip J. Pierre in St Lucia for swearing in ceremony

    In a significant display of Caribbean diplomatic solidarity, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica arrived in Saint Lucia on Friday to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre. The event marks Pierre’s formal assumption of office as the nation’s ninth individual and twelfth Prime Minister.

    The newly appointed leader publicly welcomed his counterpart through a Facebook post, describing Skerrit as his “dear friend and comrade.” Pierre emphasized that the Dominican leader’s presence symbolizes the profound friendship between their neighboring nations and reflects their mutual dedication to prioritizing citizen welfare throughout the Caribbean region.

    “Together, we continue to move forward, for the progress of our people,” Pierre declared, underscoring their shared governance philosophy. The ceremony represents more than a constitutional formality—it signifies the strengthening of inter-island partnerships within the Eastern Caribbean at a leadership level.

    The event was broadcast live, allowing citizens from both nations to witness this demonstration of regional cooperation. This political gesture occurs amid ongoing efforts to enhance collaborative initiatives across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), particularly in addressing shared challenges related to economic development, climate resilience, and social advancement.

    Such high-level attendance at ministerial inaugurations has become increasingly common among Caribbean leaders, reinforcing diplomatic bonds and creating opportunities for immediate bilateral discussions on pressing regional matters.

  • Allen Chastanet resigns as UWP leader after crushing election defeat

    Allen Chastanet resigns as UWP leader after crushing election defeat

    In a significant political development, United Workers Party (UWP) leader Allen Chastanet has officially resigned from his position following the party’s catastrophic performance in Saint Lucia’s December 1 General Election. The UWP suffered its most devastating electoral defeat in decades, securing only one parliamentary seat—Chastanet’s own constituency of Micoud South.

    The ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) achieved a commanding victory by capturing 14 seats, while independent candidates claimed the remaining two positions. These independent representatives have subsequently pledged their allegiance to the governing coalition, effectively leaving the UWP as the sole opposition voice in parliament.

    Party Chairman Therold Prudent formally notified UWP members of Chastanet’s resignation during a strategic meeting on December 5. According to an official press release, Prudent confirmed receipt of Chastanet’s resignation letter, which will be formally presented to the National Executive during their mid-December meeting for official consideration.

    The party’s statement emphasized its ongoing commitment to “transparency, democratic processes, and the continued advancement of its mission in service to the people of Saint Lucia.”

    Political analysts have identified Chastanet’s leadership as a primary factor in the party’s poor electoral showing. This defeat represents the second consecutive landslide loss under his guidance, mirroring the substantial defeat experienced during the 2021 general elections.

    Chastanet’s departure triggers an imminent leadership contest within the UWP as the party attempts to rebuild its political infrastructure and redefine its role within Saint Lucia’s evolving political landscape. This transition occurs amid growing questions about the party’s future direction and electoral viability.

  • LVV zet gezonde bodem centraal met minibeurs op World Soil Day

    LVV zet gezonde bodem centraal met minibeurs op World Soil Day

    In commemoration of World Soil Day, Suriname’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) organized an educational mini-fair in Groningen, Saramacca. The event, coordinated by the Directorate of Agricultural Research, Marketing, and Processing in collaboration with WUSC-Caribbean, aimed to elevate public awareness regarding the critical importance of soil health for sustainable agricultural practices.

    Farmers and students received comprehensive guidance on soil conservation, responsible fertilizer application, and sustainable cultivation techniques. A particularly popular feature allowed visitors to submit soil samples for immediate on-site analysis—a service demonstrating LVV’s recent initiative to provide complimentary soil testing for agricultural producers. This program enables farmers to optimize fertilization strategies and crop planning according to precise soil requirements.

    Addressing declining youth engagement in agricultural education, the fair placed special emphasis on inspiring student participation through interactive demonstrations. LVV showcased how modern agriculture integrates scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability.

    Maitrie Jagroep, Deputy Director of LVV, emphasized that proper soil management directly contributes to national food security, climate resilience, public health, and environmental protection. The mini-fair provided Suriname’s agricultural community with an accessible platform for knowledge acquisition, experience sharing, and practical support—all centered on the fundamental principle that healthy soil forms the foundation of the nation’s agricultural future.

  • CARICOM Mission: Saint Lucian electors voted transparently

    CARICOM Mission: Saint Lucian electors voted transparently

    An independent observer mission from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has formally declared Saint Lucia’s recent general election a successful democratic exercise, characterized by peace, order, and transparency. The 11-member delegation, which monitored the electoral proceedings, released its preliminary assessment on December 5th.

    The mission’s official statement highlighted several commendable aspects of the voting process. Polling stations opened punctually across the nation, and electoral staff executed their duties with notable efficiency and professionalism, ensuring a smooth experience for voters. The delegation also confirmed that it neither witnessed nor received any reports of election-related violence, underscoring the civil atmosphere that prevailed.

    While the overall electoral process was praised, the CARICOM observers did note the presence of a highly charged campaign season. The statement acknowledged that personal attacks and accusations emerged between political factions, which it interpreted as a reflection of the high stakes and the nation’s dynamically evolving political landscape.

    In its concluding remarks, the mission extended congratulations to the Saint Lucia Electoral Commission for its proficient administration of the entire electoral process. It also commended all political parties, their agents, and supporters for the peaceful conduct demonstrated on Election Day. A comprehensive final report, containing detailed observations and constructive recommendations, is scheduled to be presented to the CARICOM Secretary-General in the coming weeks.

  • Reopening of 2-lane traffic: Old Fort Main Road

    Reopening of 2-lane traffic: Old Fort Main Road

    The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) Traffic Department has officially announced the full reopening of Old Fort Main Road in St. George to two-way vehicular traffic. The restoration, which became effective Friday, December 5, 2025, marks the conclusion of previously undisclosed infrastructure work that had necessitated a partial closure.

    In a public communiqué, the RGPF extended its gratitude to citizens and motorists for their demonstrated patience and cooperative spirit during the period of traffic disruption. The police force emphasized that public understanding was instrumental in facilitating the project’s completion.

    The announcement, disseminated through the Office of the Commissioner of Police, serves as a formal notification to the commuting public to resume standard travel patterns on the route. Local authorities have confirmed that all necessary safety checks and assessments have been conducted to ensure the road’s integrity for public use.

  • India and Russia adopt joint development program until 2030

    India and Russia adopt joint development program until 2030

    In a significant diplomatic advancement, India and Russia have established a robust framework to substantially enhance their strategic and privileged partnership. The cornerstone of this strengthened alliance is an ambitious target to achieve $100 billion in bilateral trade over the next five years, a goal that underscores a mutual commitment to deepening economic integration.

    The partnership was formally advanced through the exchange of 16 distinct cooperation mechanisms covering a diverse array of sectors. A key agreement focuses on regulating the mobility of skilled Indian professionals to Russia, establishing clear pathways for legal employment while implementing measures to combat irregular migration, thereby addressing a critical issue of mutual concern.

    Collaboration extends into the realms of public health and education, with new pacts designed to foster joint initiatives in medical research, healthcare, and academic exchange in science. In a specialized move, the nations agreed to facilitate the training of Indian maritime specialists for operations in challenging polar waters, signaling India’s growing interest in Arctic logistics and Russia’s expertise in this domain.

    Economic cooperation received a significant boost with agreements to create a joint regulatory framework for a major urea manufacturing venture in Russia, led by Indian companies. This initiative aims to secure a stable supply of fertilizers for India’s vast agricultural sector. Further streamlining trade, both countries committed to implementing systems for the pre-arrival exchange of customs data for goods and vehicles, a measure expected to drastically reduce border clearance times.

    Recognizing the digital economy’s potential, the partners pledged to strengthen cross-border postal services and actively support the growth of e-commerce, with a special focus on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from both nations to access each other’s markets. The breadth of the partnership is further evidenced by new mechanisms for scientific and academic exchanges, specialized industrial training programs, and enhanced media cooperation to foster greater public understanding and people-to-people ties.

  • Cuba denounces discredit campaing against its medical cooperation

    Cuba denounces discredit campaing against its medical cooperation

    Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has publicly challenged what he characterizes as a biased Western media narrative targeting Cuba’s international medical missions. The diplomatic response was triggered by an analysis from the Cubadebate Media Observatory that exposed a recent investigation attempting to portray Cuba’s health cooperation programs as state-sponsored manipulation.

    Rodríguez highlighted the apparent hypocrisy in Western discourse, noting that while Cuba’s informational efforts are systematically labeled as ‘manipulation,’ campaigns orchestrated by Western governments and Washington-funded entities are routinely legitimized as expressions of ‘civil society.’

    The Foreign Minister further criticized the asymmetric terminology applied to online activism, pointing out that Cuban citizens sharing positive content about their country are frequently dismissed as ‘digital troops,’ while those coordinating hostile campaigns against the island are celebrated as ‘freedom activists.’

    This defense of Cuba’s medical diplomacy comes against the backdrop of substantial historical contributions. Official statistics from Cuba’s Ministry of Public Health reveal that over the past six decades, more than 605,000 healthcare professionals have served missions across 165 nations.

    Notable achievements include Cuba’s pivotal role in combating Ebola in Africa, eliminating blindness across Latin America and the Caribbean, addressing cholera in Haiti, and the global deployment of medical brigades during the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts represent one of the world’s most extensive humanitarian medical cooperation programs, demonstrating Cuba’s commitment to global health solidarity despite limited economic resources.

  • Infrastructure Ministry will terminate contracts that violate agreements

    Infrastructure Ministry will terminate contracts that violate agreements

    Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, serving simultaneously as Grenada’s Infrastructure Minister, delivered a stern warning to local government contractors during parliamentary debates on December 1st regarding the 2026 Budget. He declared an end to leniency regarding contractual non-compliance, emphasizing that henceforth, all contract terms—including termination clauses and delayed payment penalties—will be strictly enforced.

    Mitchell expressed particular frustration with contractors who secure projects only to subsequently attempt redesigns that cause significant delays. “You cannot bid for a project, have the designs, have the plans, get the contracts, and then you decide you want to re-engineer and redesign to delay the work,” he stated, reminding attendees that taxpayer funds finance Grenada’s infrastructure development.

    The Prime Minister revealed that despite his advocacy for local contractors over the past three and a half years, many have responded with substandard work, delays, and a lack of accountability. This has prompted a shift in his approach: “I now intend to fight on behalf of the citizens of Grenada,” he declared, demanding contractors immediately deploy adequate resources to project sites.

    A critical issue highlighted was the reluctance of local contractors to collaborate, which Mitchell identified as a primary factor hindering their growth and necessitating foreign work permits. This lack of cooperation prevents them from qualifying for larger projects under Caribbean Development Bank procurement guidelines, ultimately allowing non-Grenadian contractors to increasingly dominate the construction industry.

    With millions in infrastructure contracts awarded annually—many of which have experienced significant timeline overruns—the government’s new stance signals a major policy shift toward accountability and quality assurance in public projects.