Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • West Indies win opening game at ICC Cricket World Cup

    West Indies win opening game at ICC Cricket World Cup

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The West Indies Under-19 cricket squad launched their ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign with a decisive five-wicket triumph against Tanzania in Namibia on Thursday. The Caribbean team demonstrated formidable bowling prowess and confident batting to secure their first victory in the tournament.

    West Indies’ bowling attack proved instrumental in containing Tanzania’s innings after winning the toss and electing to field. Seamer Shaquan Belle delivered an exceptional all-round performance, earning Man-of-the-match honors with figures of 2-33, complemented by a crucial catch and a direct-hit runout that disrupted Tanzania’s middle order.

    Despite a promising 53-run opening partnership between Dylan Thakrar (26) and Darpan Jobanputra (19), Tanzania’s batting lineup collapsed spectacularly, bowled out for a modest 122 runs in just 34 overs. The Caribbean bowling unit maintained relentless pressure, with Vitel Lawes claiming impressive figures of 3-23 and Micah McKenzie contributing 2-15.

    In response, West Indies approached their run chase with calculated aggression. Opener Tanez Francis dominated the innings with a tournament-first half-century, scoring 52 runs off 55 deliveries including five boundaries and one six. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew provided strong support with 44 runs from 44 balls as the team reached their target of 124-5 in just 21 overs.

    In other tournament action, India secured a six-wicket victory against the United States, while the scheduled match between Scotland and Zimbabwe was abandoned due to rain without a ball bowled.

    The West Indies team continues their World Cup journey with a highly anticipated match against Afghanistan on Sunday, scheduled for 2:20 AM Jamaican time.

  • Jamaica’s unemployment rate now 3.3 per cent, says STATIN

    Jamaica’s unemployment rate now 3.3 per cent, says STATIN

    Jamaica’s labor market demonstrated resilience with unemployment declining to 3.3% in October 2025, showing improvement from the 3.5% rate recorded during the same period in 2024. The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) disclosed these findings in its latest Labour Force Survey released Thursday, providing crucial insights into the nation’s employment landscape.

    The report indicates relative stability in employment levels with 1,413,200 persons employed in October 2025, representing a marginal decrease of 3,800 individuals compared to the previous year. Concurrently, the number of unemployed persons decreased from 51,300 to 48,800, contributing to the improved unemployment rate.

    Notably, Jamaica’s labor force experienced a contraction, falling by 6,300 individuals to reach 1,462,000. This decline manifested differently across genders, with the male labor force decreasing by 11,900 to 777,200, while the female labor force expanded by 5,600 to 684,800. The overall labor force participation rate consequently edged down to 67.8% from 68.1% in October 2024.

    The survey also recorded 693,800 individuals outside the labor force, marking an increase of 6,300 persons year-over-year.

    STATIN emphasized that these statistics capture Jamaica’s labor market conditions immediately preceding Hurricane Melissa’s landfall on October 28, 2025. The catastrophic weather event significantly disrupted data collection operations, particularly in western parishes including St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Hanover, and Trelawny.

    In response to these challenges, STATIN implemented modified methodologies, deploying an abbreviated version of its standard questionnaire to maintain data continuity while capturing essential labor market indicators. The institution extended both data collection and processing timelines by two weeks beyond the typical six-week period due to the hurricane’s extensive impact on field operations.

  • Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector, multinational oil and gas company Perenco convened high-level talks with Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) officials on January 14. The meeting centered on Perenco’s recent acquisition of Greater Angostura oil and gas assets and associated production facilities, marking a substantial investment in the country’s energy infrastructure.

    During the strategic discussions at the ministry headquarters, Perenco executives delivered comprehensive updates on operational advancements and outlined plans to enhance efficiency across their Trinidadian operations. The dialogue emphasized collaborative initiatives designed to sustain and strengthen investment in the nation’s critical energy sector.

    Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal expressed the government’s endorsement of Perenco’s initiatives to extend the productive lifespan of mature oil fields while fostering a favorable investment climate. The minister emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting energy companies in maximizing Trinidad and Tobago’s hydrocarbon resources.

    Perenco detailed performance metrics from their existing operations, including the CAFI gas fields (Cashima, Amherstia, Flamboyant, and Immortelle) and revealed development strategies for the Onyx field situated within the Teak, Samaan, and Poui (TSP) area.

    The energy company’s delegation, led by CEO Armel Simondin, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close collaboration with MEEI as current projects progress and new opportunities materialize in the local energy landscape. The meeting participants included key figures from both organizations, underscoring the importance both parties place on this strategic partnership.

  • Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    The vibrant sounds of youthful musical excellence will resonate through Port of Spain this weekend as 22 emerging steelbands compete in the National Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious event, scheduled for January 18 at Queen’s Park Savannah, features both the established Under 21 category and a newly introduced Under 19 division that resulted from recent educational disputes.

    The creation of the Under 19 category emerged as an innovative solution after northern Trinidad school steelbands withdrew from the Ministry of Education’s competition. These institutions protested the relocation of the Schools Panorama finals from Port of Spain to Skinner Park in San Fernando, citing prohibitive transportation costs that exceeded potential prize earnings. Recognizing the immense dedication of students who had been rehearsing since August 2025, Pan Trinbago intervened by establishing this complementary competition platform.

    Ten ensembles will contend in the Under 21 category, while twelve bands make their debut in the pioneering Under 19 classification. All finalists earned their positions through rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds conducted nationwide in local pan yards and community spaces.

    The performance order places BATCE Steel as the opening act for the Under 19 segment, followed by ensembles including Eldo East ‘Blue’ Steel Orchestra, East Port of Spain Stars Steel Orchestra, and BARS of Steel. The category concludes with San Juan North Stars Steel Orchestra, after which Katzenjammers Youths will initiate the Under 21 competition.

    Qualifying rounds revealed impressive musical prowess, with Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra leading the rankings at 281 points for their interpretation of Crazy’s ‘Band From Space’. BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra followed closely with 278 points for ‘Jamtown’, while T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra secured third position with 275 points for Baron’s ‘This Melody Sweet’.

    Pan Trinbago’s official statement celebrated the participants, noting: ‘Your talent, discipline, and passion continue to inspire the future of the steelband movement. We are proud of both categories of youth of steel, whose commitment and excellence strengthen the legacy of our national musical instrument.’

    The organization extended best wishes to all finalists, encouraging them to ‘shine on’ during this celebration of musical excellence that promises to showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage through its next generation of pannists.

  • Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Queen’s Hall Gardens in St. Ann’s transformed into a vibrant epicenter of Caribbean musical excellence on January 10 as 2024 Road March champion Mical Teja presented his highly anticipated “Mas The Experience” concert. The event showcased an extraordinary gathering of soca royalty that created an unforgettable night of cultural celebration.

    The stellar lineup featured legendary performers including Destra Garcia, whose powerful vocals energized the crowd, and Ronnie McIntosh, the 1995 Soca Monarch winner who demonstrated his enduring stage presence. Nadia Batson brought her distinctive singer-songwriter artistry to the stage while Patrice Roberts delivered a captivating performance that highlighted her status as a soca icon.

    International flavors enhanced the evening with Edwin Yearwood from Barbados representing the regional soca community alongside rising stars including Aaron “Voice” St Louis, Karene Asche, and GBM Nutron. The diverse musical offerings created a dynamic rhythm that kept attendees immersed in the celebration throughout the night.

    Photographer Faith Ayoung documented the spectacle, capturing both the artists’ electrifying performances and the audience’s enthusiastic participation. Images reveal veteran performer Ronnie McIntosh sharing the stage with Mical Teja, Destra Garcia commanding attention with her powerful presence, and patrons fully embracing the festive atmosphere.

    The event served as both a victory celebration for Teja’s Road March achievement and a testament to soca music’s enduring appeal. From Andre “Viking Ding Dong” Houlder’s energetic performance to Devon “Lyrikal” Martin’s interaction with fans, the concert exemplified the communal spirit that defines Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival culture.

    Audience members appeared thoroughly captivated by the productions, with photographs capturing moments of pure enjoyment as concert-goers danced and celebrated throughout the evening. The successful gathering reinforced Mical Teja’s position within the soca landscape while honoring the genre’s rich legacy through its multidisciplinary presentations.

  • More inmates, officers quarantined for chickenpox at MSP

    More inmates, officers quarantined for chickenpox at MSP

    A concerning varicella virus outbreak continues to spread through Trinidad and Tobago’s Maximum Security Prison in Arouca, with health authorities confirming five additional inmate infections and a sixth prison officer diagnosis. Acting Prisons Commissioner Carlos Corraspe disclosed that the facility has now managed approximately 80 cases over 65 days since the initial infection was detected on November 11th.

    The correctional institution currently maintains 40 infected inmates in specialized containment units, while 43 previously affected prisoners have completed treatment and returned to the general population. The outbreak has shown concerning growth patterns over the past fortnight, with 29 active inmate cases recorded as of January 10th.

    Prison authorities have implemented comprehensive containment protocols including medical screening by infirmary staff, hourly sanitization of communal areas, and dedicated isolation facilities where confirmed cases undergo 21-day quarantine periods. Inmates must receive medical clearance from the Prisons Medical Officer before reintegration into general population areas.

    As proactive prevention, the Prison Service initiated a voluntary vaccination drive on January 15th targeting approximately 2,500 officers across multiple facilities. Initial participation saw 75 officers inoculated by midday, with the program continuing through subsequent days. Commissioner Corraspe emphasized that officers with prior chickenpox infections or previous vaccinations don’t require additional immunization due to built immunity.

    The institution has distributed appropriate Personal Protective Equipment including approved masks and gloves to staff members. Health management strategies are being coordinated with the Prisons Medical Officer, Prison Health Services, Ministry of Health, and the County Medical Officer of Health for St. George to contain the viral spread.

  • St Catherine man charged following drug bust

    St Catherine man charged following drug bust

    In a pre-dawn law enforcement operation in St. Catherine, Jamaica, authorities have apprehended and formally charged a local resident with serious narcotics offenses. The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Garth Forbes from Passage Fort, Portmore, now confronts charges for both possession of and dealing in cocaine following Wednesday’s targeted raid.

    According to official reports from the Greater Portmore Police Division, the incident unfolded approximately at 4:15 AM when a specialized police unit executed a strategic operation at Forbes’s residential property. During a thorough search of the premises, investigators reportedly discovered a quantity of cocaine concealed beneath the suspect’s bed, leading to immediate apprehension.

    The successful operation culminated in Forbes’s arrest on site, with law enforcement officials subsequently processing formal charges against him. The judicial process will commence with his scheduled appearance before the St. Catherine Parish Court on Friday, January 23, where the allegations will be formally addressed within the Jamaican legal framework.

    This enforcement action underscores the continued vigilance of Jamaican authorities in combating narcotics distribution networks within local communities, particularly in the St. Catherine region which has periodically faced drug-related law enforcement challenges.

  • The Agency Bahamas closes record year, eyes $100m in 2026

    The Agency Bahamas closes record year, eyes $100m in 2026

    The Agency Bahamas has announced an extraordinary 68 percent increase in annual sales for 2025 compared to the previous year, heralding what the firm characterizes as an unprecedented period of growth. This performance has established a new benchmark for the brokerage and prompted the setting of aggressive expansion objectives for the coming year.

    According to an official release, this substantial growth is attributed to robust demand emanating from both domestic and international property buyers, coupled with sustained vigor within the premium real estate market. Danny Lowe, the Founder and Managing Partner, emphasized that these results are a direct indicator of escalating confidence in The Bahamas as a premier destination for high-value property investments.

    “These milestones are not merely numerical achievements; they symbolize the trust we have cultivated, the enduring relationships we have forged, and our profound comprehension of the evolving desires of contemporary buyers in The Bahamas,” Mr. Lowe stated.

    In its annual assessment, the company celebrated its highest achievers, bestowing Dexter Avney with the title of Top Producer of the Year. James Galantis was honored as the runner-up, while Condra Driver received recognition as Rookie of the Year.

    With an optimistic outlook for 2026, The Agency Bahamas is targeting sales exceeding $100 million. Its strategic growth plan includes geographical expansion into the islands of Eleuthera and the Abacos. Furthermore, the brokerage intends to establish a specialized development and advisory division. This new arm will be dedicated to providing comprehensive support to investors, developers, and landowners undertaking larger, more intricate projects.

    Market dynamics continue to be propelled by high-net-worth individuals seeking properties that enhance their lifestyle. Notably, demographic shifts are occurring, with Millennials and Generation X exerting a greater influence on the market. Their investment decisions are increasingly driven by an interest in multi-generational living arrangements and long-term legacy planning.

    Mr. Lowe affirmed that The Bahamas maintains a strong position within global luxury real estate trends, bolstered by consistent foreign interest and the nation’s dual appeal as an idyllic lifestyle haven and a sound investment location.

    “Our strategic focus for 2026 is to solidify our role as the essential partner for buyers and investors who seek more than just a transaction—they desire a long-term vision for living, creating a legacy, and achieving growth within this dynamic market,” he concluded.

  • $250m Six Senses resort yet to break ground

    $250m Six Senses resort yet to break ground

    The ambitious Six Senses luxury resort development in Grand Bahama has encountered significant delays, missing its projected 2026 opening timeline and casting doubt on the project’s future viability. Despite detailed master plans unveiled in September 2024 by development consortium Weller Development Partners and Pegasus Capital Advisors, construction on the $250 million project has yet to commence on the designated 50-acre Barbary Beach site.

    The resort, initially promoted as a transformative investment for Grand Bahama’s tourism sector, was designed to feature 70 luxury villas, 28 branded residences, and premium amenities including a world-class spa, multiple dining establishments, a beach club, and event spaces. Marketed as an eco-conscious development, the project emphasized sustainability and resilience with designs engineered to withstand Category 5 hurricanes while integrating seamlessly with the natural landscape.

    Local stakeholders have expressed growing concern over the development’s stagnation. Peter Turnquest, former president of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, described the situation as particularly disappointing given the project’s potential to revitalize the island’s luxury tourism infrastructure and generate substantial employment opportunities. ‘What was hailed as a breakthrough investment for Lucaya and Grand Bahama in general has gone cold without any explanations,’ Turnquest noted.

    The development team had previously indicated that construction would begin immediately following environmental approvals, with CEO Marc Weller expressing confidence in summer 2024 about rapid progress once permits were secured. However, despite completing the Environmental Impact Assessment process and public consultations in January 2024, no visible progress has been made.

    The absence of communication from both developers and government officials has fueled speculation about potential obstacles, including whether infrastructure limitations such as airport facilities might be contributing to the delay. Turnquest suggested that while airport upgrades might be necessary, they shouldn’t fundamentally impede investment in the region.

    With the original timeline now obsolete, stakeholders await updated information regarding the project’s revised schedule and the underlying causes for the unexpected delay, as the promised economic benefits remain unrealized.

  • Guyana, Suriname, T&T not included in latest US visa policy for the Caribbean

    Guyana, Suriname, T&T not included in latest US visa policy for the Caribbean

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The government of Antigua and Barbuda has indicated it remains without official notification regarding a potential suspension of immigrant visa processing by the United States, which reportedly targets 75 nations including twelve Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states. This development follows media reports indicating the U.S. Department of State is considering such measures under a new White House directive.

    Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s representative to the United States, confirmed conducting immediate inquiries with State Department officials. He clarified that while discussions are ongoing, no formal announcement or written communication has been delivered to embassies of the purportedly affected countries. According to Sanders, the measure under consideration would specifically target immigrant visas—commonly known as green cards—and entail a temporary pause of up to 60 days to reassess vetting and screening protocols.

    The proposed suspension, attributed to the Trump administration, is framed as an effort to prevent the alleged exploitation of the U.S. immigration system and public benefits. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott stated the review aims to block entry of foreign nationals who might seek welfare assistance.

    Twelve CARICOM countries are identified as potentially impacted: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Notably exempted are Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additional nations reportedly under review include Somalia, Russia, and Iran.

    Ambassador Sanders emphasized that immigrant visa applications remain strictly bilateral matters between individual applicants and U.S. authorities, without involvement from applicants’ home governments. Concurrently, the Gaston Browne administration continues diplomatic efforts to have Antigua and Barbuda removed from existing visa restriction lists, including bond requirements for certain applicants.