Carib Scope

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  • New wastewater plant in five-year plan to turn sewage into irrigation

    New wastewater plant in five-year plan to turn sewage into irrigation

    Barbados is poised to revolutionize its agricultural sector through a landmark infrastructure initiative designed to convert sewage into a sustainable irrigation resource. The Climate Resilient South Coast Water Reclamation Project, a five-year development program, will provide treated wastewater to farmers at government-regulated prices, potentially reducing irrigation expenses significantly.

    Government officials confirmed that pricing structures for reclaimed water would be determined at the ministerial level, separate from the Barbados Water Authority’s purview. Current rates have already decreased from $1.80 to $1.00 per unit in recent years, with further reductions anticipated once the new system becomes operational.

    Technical specifications reveal an advanced multi-stage purification process beginning with mechanical screening to remove solid debris. The wastewater will then undergo biological treatment, particle filtration, and reverse osmosis purification—utilizing technology similar to the Spring Garden desalination facility—to achieve the Ministry of Agriculture’s strict standard of 450 milligrams per liter of total dissolved solids.

    Dr. John Mwansa, Technical Adviser for the Barbados Water Authority, emphasized the climate-resilient design elements: “The new treatment plant is being constructed four meters higher than existing facilities as protection against storm surges and rising sea levels.”

    The comprehensive system includes a 25-kilometer transmission pipeline extending along the ABC Highway toward St. George Valley, with ultraviolet and chlorine disinfection preventing biological growth within the distribution network. During rainy seasons when irrigation demand decreases, excess treated water will recharge aquifers through five injection wells, creating sustainable water reserves.

    Additional project components involve drilling new boreholes at Gibbons Boggs and upgrading the Bridgetown Sewage Treatment Plant to supplement water supplies toward the Botanical Gardens region. The Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation will manage distribution through existing irrigation networks, though farmers won’t receive reclaimed water until construction concludes in approximately five years.

  • Thousands of Cubans pay tribute to fallen combatants in Venezuela

    Thousands of Cubans pay tribute to fallen combatants in Venezuela

    Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel joined Commander Jose Ramón Machado Ventura and senior Communist Party officials in leading a solemn national tribute honoring internationalist fighters killed during recent hostilities involving the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The ceremony preceded the traditional March of the Fighting People, demonstrating Cuba’s unwavering commitment to its revolutionary principles.

    The commemorative events began with the arrival of the combatants’ remains, which were met with widespread public displays of support across the nation. Revolutionary leader Raul Castro and President Diaz-Canel performed the first posthumous honors, leading the final honor guard in a gesture of profound respect for the fallen.

    A solemn procession transported the ceremonial urns from Havana’s airport terminal to the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) headquarters along Rancho Boyeros Avenue. Thousands of citizens lined the route despite challenging weather conditions, offering heartfelt tributes to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in international service.

    The public tribute continued at MINFAR headquarters where a constant flow of mourners gathered to pay their respects to the mortal remains. The sustained attendance demonstrated the deep resonance of the combatants’ sacrifice within Cuban society, with citizens braving inclement weather to honor their legacy.

    Official ceremonies are scheduled for Friday morning across all provincial capitals, followed by afternoon interments in the Pantheon of the Fallen in Defense in the combatants’ respective localities. Concurrent recognition ceremonies will take place in every municipality, creating a nationwide expression of gratitude for the internationalists’ service and sacrifice.

  • T&T passport loses strength, now 7th most powerful in the region

    T&T passport loses strength, now 7th most powerful in the region

    Trinidad and Tobago passport holders face increased travel restrictions as the nation’s document experiences a notable decline in global mobility. According to the recently published Henley Passport Index, the dual-island nation’s passport now provides visa-free entry to just 146 countries worldwide—a significant reduction from its 2025 standing of 152 destinations.

    While maintaining its 28th position in the overall global rankings, Trinidad and Tobago now trails 63 countries that offer superior travel access. This development has also diminished its regional standing, dropping one place to become the seventh most powerful passport within the Caribbean community.

    Barbados continues to dominate as the Caribbean’s premier travel document, enabling visa-free access to 165 global destinations and sharing the 19th global position with Brunei. The Bahamas, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada complete the top six Caribbean passports by access power.

    Globally, Asian passports demonstrate unprecedented dominance with Singapore claiming the top position (192 destinations), followed jointly by Japan and South Korea (188 destinations each). Afghanistan remains at the spectrum’s opposite end with access to merely 24 countries.

    The reduction in Trinidad and Tobago’s passport strength stems primarily from policy changes by the United Kingdom and Ireland, which revoked visa-free access for the nation’s citizens last year. Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Sean Sobers has been engaged in diplomatic efforts to restore these privileges since the current administration took office, identifying the core issue as inadequate legislative mechanisms for advance passenger information sharing.

    As noted by Misha Glenny, rector of Vienna’s Institute for Human Sciences, “Passport power ultimately reflects political stability, diplomatic credibility and the ability to shape international rules.” The index, now in its twentieth year, utilizes International Air Transport Association data supplemented by extensive research from Henley & Partners to provide comprehensive global mobility insights.

  • Lashley’s return to politics stirs mixed feelings in City

    Lashley’s return to politics stirs mixed feelings in City

    The Barbados political landscape has been energized by veteran attorney Michael Lashley’s decision to seek nomination for the City of Bridgetown seat under the Barbados Labour Party banner, generating sharply contrasting reactions among constituents. This development comes as the constituency, spanning from Bayland to Kensington, has historically presented complex representation challenges due to its geographical expanse and diverse community needs.

    Lashley brings considerable political pedigree to the race, having served as a Democratic Labour Party Member of Parliament for St Philip North for 15 years and as Minister of Housing before his defection to the BLP late last year. His opponent, financial adviser and tourism expert Dale Rowe, represents the DLP after joining the party in 2022 and receiving official nomination last January.

    The constituency’s political history reveals a strong BLP stronghold for over three decades, with representation from prominent figures including Elliott Mottley, Dame Billie Miller, and most recently Corey Lane, who announced he would not seek re-election despite winning the seat in 2022.

    Resident perspectives reveal deep divisions regarding Lashley’s candidacy. While some welcome his experience, others question his party transition. Greenfield resident Mark expressed disappointment, stating Lashley was the DLP’s “last hope” for electoral success. Conversely, Frederick believed Lashley “has something to give to Barbados” and supported experienced guidance for younger party members.

    Throughout the constituency, residents voiced persistent concerns about inadequate representation, with many reporting feeling neglected between election cycles. Infrastructure issues, particularly an uncovered 30-foot well in Dunlow Lane that has remained hazardous since summer, highlight safety concerns that residents say have been ignored despite repeated complaints.

    Employment opportunities emerge as a critical issue, with tradesman Larry Hanson emphasizing the need for entrepreneurial support rather than handouts: “We got entrepreneurs here, these fishermen. We just want a little start. Mostly work, because we ain’t for no handouts.”

    Older residents expressed specific needs, with 65-year-old tailor Robert Jones advocating for reinstatement of non-contributory pensions for skilled workers unable to participate consistently in the National Insurance Scheme.

    Despite constitutional requirements setting the next general election by 2027, increased political activity across Barbados has fueled speculation about an early election call, with both major parties intensifying community engagement efforts.

    The overarching consensus among City constituents indicates a desire for visible, active representation that addresses long-standing issues including employment creation, housing solutions, and community maintenance—concerns that transcend party affiliations and demand practical solutions.

  • Ariza Credit Union: Call for nominations

    Ariza Credit Union: Call for nominations

    The financial community in Grenada is currently engaged in significant discourse regarding governance protocols within local credit unions. This conversation has gained momentum following the public nomination process for key leadership positions, specifically targeting roles on the Board of Directors and the crucial Credit Committee. These developments highlight a growing emphasis on transparency and accountability within member-driven financial institutions.

  • Government Defends Decision Not to Use Genetically Modified Mosquitoes—for Now

    Government Defends Decision Not to Use Genetically Modified Mosquitoes—for Now

    The Antigua and Barbuda government has confirmed extensive internal discussions regarding the potential deployment of genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes as a novel strategy against vector-borne diseases. However, officials have declared the nation is not yet ready to implement this biotechnology solution, identifying significant barriers that must first be overcome.

    During a recent post-Cabinet media briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, addressed inquiries about adopting more aggressive mosquito control methods. Merchant revealed that while the government has seriously evaluated GM mosquitoes, the approach remains under scrutiny with no immediate plans for implementation.

    Public acceptance emerged as the primary concern, with Merchant emphasizing that comprehensive public education and community sensitization represent substantial challenges. The significant financial investment required for genetically modified initiatives presents another considerable obstacle, making cost-effectiveness a critical factor in the decision-making process.

    The nation’s tropical climate further complicates potential deployment, creating environmental conditions particularly conducive to mosquito proliferation that may diminish the effectiveness of singular technological solutions.

    Currently, the government continues to prioritize conventional mosquito control methodologies administered through the Central Board of Health’s vector-borne disease control division, which Merchant described as exceptionally effective. These established programs rely heavily on public participation in eradication efforts and community-level preventive measures.

    Government officials indicated that innovative scientific approaches would only be reconsidered should existing conventional methods prove inadequate in addressing the persistent challenge of mosquito-borne illnesses in the Caribbean nation.

  • Overpeinzingen bij 77 jaar VHP

    Overpeinzingen bij 77 jaar VHP

    As Suriname’s Progressive Reform Party (VHP) commemorates its 77th anniversary on January 16, 2026, the political organization stands at a critical juncture requiring substantial internal transformation and strategic repositioning. According to prominent VHP member Henry Ori, the party confronts significant challenges despite its historical legacy of producing distinguished statesmen and exceptional parliamentary representatives.

    The recent 2020-2025 governmental term saw VHP assuming executive responsibility with a party president who initiated substantial policy measures. However, the party currently faces targeted negative campaigns aimed at undermining its public standing. Ori emphasizes that VHP inherited substantial governance challenges from previous administrations and prevented Suriname from descending into bankruptcy and economic decline, though he acknowledges that party leadership made certain miscalculations during their tenure.

    With over 40,000 registered members and extensive supporter networks, VHP represents a substantial political force rather than belonging to a select few individuals. The opposition period now provides opportunity for thorough evaluation, with the party possessing an assessment report and critical analysis from VHP Netherlands that should inform future direction.

    The emergence of political populism coincides with diminishing public trust in traditional politics, creating an environment where VHP must reestablish credibility through concrete actions. This necessitates addressing fundamental societal issues including inequality, poverty disparities, unequal access to knowledge resources, employment challenges, housing shortages, and land distribution problems.

    Ori advocates for developing self-cleansing mechanisms within the party structure, coupled with personnel renewal and ideological reinvigoration. VHP politics must demonstrate explicable policy choices connected to core party ideals while addressing Suriname’s pressing needs regarding wealth distribution, climate challenges, energy requirements, revenue generation, and investments in education, infrastructure, and healthcare systems.

    Despite securing 17 parliamentary seats in recent elections—demonstrating significant voter support for its philosophy—the party must transition from distrust to trust and from self-interest to collective benefit. This anniversary serves as both celebration and call to action for organizational renewal and democratic revitalization throughout Surinamese politics.

  • El Salvador marks 34th anniversary of Peace Accords

    El Salvador marks 34th anniversary of Peace Accords

    The mountainous region of Perquín, once the operational nerve center for the Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) during El Salvador’s civil conflict, now serves as both memorial and testament to the nation’s turbulent past. This strategic territory, celebrated for its historical resistance, has transformed into the symbolic heart of El Salvador’s Peace Route—a physical journey through sites of remembrance and reconciliation.

    The upcoming commemoration ceremony at this former guerrilla stronghold underscores the enduring significance of the Chapultepec Peace Accords. Signed in 1992 at Mexico’s historic Chapultepec Castle, these agreements formally ended twelve years of armed conflict yet remain subject to competing historical narratives. While some political factions advocate for forgetting, others work diligently to preserve the accords’ legacy within the national consciousness.

    Central to this historical preservation is the damning evidence contained within the United Nations-backed Truth Commission’s landmark report, titled ‘From Madness to Hope: The Twelve-Year War in El Salvador.’ Published on March 15, 1993, the document meticulously cataloged atrocities committed during the power struggle, including substantial evidence of United States financial and military support for government forces responsible for massacres.

    The conflict’s human toll remains staggering, with documented deaths and disappearances exceeding 75,000 civilians and combatants. This tragic legacy finds physical representation at the Monument to Memory and Truth in San Salvador’s Cuscatlán Park—a solemn wall inscribed with approximately 30,000 names of confirmed victims, standing as permanent witness to one of Latin America’s most brutal civil wars.

  • Nicaraguan Co-President greets Cuba and denounces US threats

    Nicaraguan Co-President greets Cuba and denounces US threats

    During the 48th Graduation Ceremony of Cadets at Nicaragua’s ‘Leonel Rugama’ Police Science University, President Daniel Ortega delivered a forceful condemnation of United States foreign policy toward two Caribbean nations. The Nicaraguan leader emphasized the overwhelming international consensus at the United Nations against the six-decade-long economic blockade imposed by Washington on Cuba, noting that nearly all member states consistently vote for its removal with only minimal opposition.

    Ortega specifically pointed to voting patterns, stating, ‘In every vote, almost all countries voted to lift the US blockade. Who voted against it? The delegate from the United States, the delegate from Israel, two or three countries at most.’ This observation highlighted the diplomatic isolation of the US position on the Cuba embargo within the global community.

    In a significant expansion of his critique, the Nicaraguan president expressed firm support for acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez while making explosive allegations regarding the disappearance of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. Ortega characterized their absence as a kidnapping operation conducted by US military personnel on January 3, demanding their immediate return to Venezuela.

    The Central American leader further accused the United States of economic motives behind its Venezuela policy, asserting that Washington’s primary interest lies in the nation’s substantial petroleum resources. Ortega quoted specific figures, alleging the US intends to appropriate ‘thousands of barrels of oil that nation intends to take from the Venezuelan people,’ while portraying Maduro as a leader genuinely committed to peace.

    Concluding his address, Ortega extended gratitude to nations worldwide and even within the United States that have mobilized against what he characterized as American aggressions, acknowledging international support for peaceful resolutions to these regional tensions.

  • Four Candidates Qualified Under St Philip’s South Scholarship Programme to Attend UWI Five Islands Campus

    Four Candidates Qualified Under St Philip’s South Scholarship Programme to Attend UWI Five Islands Campus

    ST. PHILIP’S SOUTH, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – A significant educational milestone has been achieved in the St. Philip’s South Constituency as Senator Hon. Kiz Johnson, ABLP Caretaker, revealed that four exceptional candidates have been selected for the constituency’s Scholarship Programme. These scholars will pursue their academic ambitions at the prestigious University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC).

    The scholarship initiative, which initially announced five available awards, generated substantial interest among constituency residents, demonstrating a strong community commitment to educational advancement. After implementing a meticulous and competitive evaluation process, four applicants successfully met all established criteria for the program’s inaugural cohort, which is scheduled to commence in the near future.

    Senator Johnson originally unveiled this educational initiative on December 12, 2025, as part of her comprehensive strategy to enhance learning opportunities and develop human capital within St. Philip’s South. The program reflects her philosophical commitment to education as a transformative force, with Senator Johnson emphasizing: ‘Education possesses the profound power to transform families, communities, and individual destinies. The people of St. Philip’s South merit every opportunity to achieve upward mobility and realize their full potential.’

    The successful scholarship recipients who will participate in the 10-week academic program include:
    – Ruetoya Browne
    – Egypt Emanuel
    – Carlene Thomas
    – D’Hijah Matthew

    Senator Johnson extended her congratulations to the selected candidates, acknowledging their achievement in meeting the program’s rigorous standards. She encouraged them to approach their educational journey with dedication, academic discipline, and self-assurance as pioneering participants in this constituency-based initiative.

    The Senator also expressed genuine appreciation to all applicants who sought consideration for the St. Philip’s South (SPS) Scholarship Programme, noting that the robust response demonstrated a clear constituency-wide commitment to educational advancement and professional development.

    In recognition of collaborative support, Senator Johnson specifically thanked Dr. Dave Ray, Diaspora Liaison, for his valuable contributions to the scholarship program. She simultaneously issued an open invitation to potential donors and organizational partners to assist in expanding the initiative’s reach. Senator Johnson has articulated ambitious plans to scale the program throughout the coming months, thereby enabling additional beneficiaries to receive support in subsequent cohorts.

    ‘The overwhelming response to this initiative confirms our constituency’s deep hunger for educational opportunities and personal growth,’ Senator Johnson observed. ‘Through sustained partnerships and community support, this scholarship program will evolve into a robust and enduring pathway toward opportunity and advancement for the people of St. Philip’s South.’