Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Three parishes to be fogged this week

    Three parishes to be fogged this week

    The Barbados Ministry of Health and Wellness has initiated a comprehensive mosquito control operation targeting multiple parishes this week. The coordinated fogging campaign commenced today in Christ Church and will progressively expand to St. John and St. Michael throughout the week.

    Vector control teams commenced operations in Christ Church on Monday, January 12th, focusing on high-priority zones including Lower Greys Tenantry, Scenic Drive, Valley Vista First through Fifth Avenues, Boarded Hall Tenantry avenues, Frere Pilgrim, Homestead Drive and its connecting avenues, Homestead Circle, and Joypa Drive with adjacent avenues.

    The operation transitions to St. John from Tuesday through Thursday, with Tuesday’s schedule encompassing Ashbury Tenantry Road, Lemon Arbour Village, Knights Village, Lower Four Roads, Spooners, and both Pool Land sectors alongside surrounding districts. Wednesday’s deployment will target First Avenue Redland Tenantry, Redland Tenantry proper, Bailey Alley, Sweet Vale, Brathwaite Road, Butcher Road, Sweet Bottom, Groves, Claybury, and Golden Ridge Village with neighboring communities. Thursday concludes the St. John phase with fogging in Eastmont Road, Cheshire, Small Hope Tenantry Number One, and both Gall Hill sectors.

    The final phase on Friday, January 16th will concentrate on St. Michael, covering Perry Gap, Country Road, Tamarind Avenue, Laundry Road, Fordes Road, Skeetes Road, Pavilion Road, Downey Avenue, Progressive Road, Holligan Road, Fields Gap, Country Towers and adjacent residential areas.

    All fogging operations are conducted during evening hours from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. Health authorities advise residents to facilitate insecticide penetration by opening windows and doors during treatment periods while ensuring children avoid direct exposure to the fogging spray.

    The Ministry emphasized that adverse weather conditions or unexpected circumstances might necessitate schedule adjustments, with affected communities receiving priority attention once conditions permit resumption of operations. This initiative represents the government’s proactive approach to controlling mosquito populations and preventing vector-borne diseases across Barbados.

  • Cuban President Diaz-Canel responds to recent statements by Trump, affirming right to defend homeland

    Cuban President Diaz-Canel responds to recent statements by Trump, affirming right to defend homeland

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has issued a forceful condemnation of what he characterizes as \”immoral statements\” from the United States government, reaffirming Cuba’s readiness to defend its sovereignty. The remarks came in response to recent social media posts by U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to halt all oil and financial resources to Cuba.\n\nThe diplomatic confrontation escalated following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces, which disrupted Venezuela’s status as Cuba’s primary oil supplier. On January 11, 2026, President Trump declared via social media: \”THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.\”\n\nIn his response, President Díaz-Canel questioned the moral authority of U.S. leadership, stating that those who \”turn everything into a business, even human lives\” lack standing to criticize Cuba. He attributed current economic challenges to six decades of U.S. economic sanctions rather than Cuba’s political system, suggesting critics should \”feel ashamed and choose silence instead.\”\n\nThe Cuban leader framed the tension as an issue of national sovereignty, emphasizing that Cuba \”does not attack; it has been attacked by the US for 66 years.\” He declared the nation’s preparedness to \”defend the Homeland to the last drop of blood\” under the hashtag #CubaIsCourage.\n\nCuban state media extensively covered Díaz-Canel’s statements, positioning them within broader concerns about U.S. actions in Venezuela and perceived escalating threats from the White House toward multiple nations.

  • China underscores support for Cuba after new US threats

    China underscores support for Cuba after new US threats

    In a firm diplomatic stance, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning has articulated Beijing’s position against external intervention in Caribbean and Latin American affairs. The statements emerged during a press briefing where Mao responded to inquiries from Prensa Latina regarding regional geopolitical tensions.

    Mao Ning explicitly called upon the United States to terminate its long-standing economic embargo and comprehensive sanctions against Cuba, emphasizing that such measures detrimentally affect regional peace and stability. ‘We once again urge the United States to end the blockade, sanctions, and all forms of coercive measures against Cuba,’ the spokesperson declared, framing the issue as a matter of international justice and regional harmony.

    The diplomatic exchange further addressed concerns about U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s economic matters following military posturing toward Caracas. Mao underscored the fundamental principle of national sovereignty, asserting that Latin American nations possess the unequivocal right to independently select their international partners and determine their political trajectories without external pressure.

    Reaffirming China’s commitment to the region, Mao Ning stated, ‘Regardless of how the situation develops, China will continue to deepen practical cooperation with Latin American countries, including Venezuela, to promote mutual benefit.’ This pledge highlights Beijing’s strategic intention to strengthen ties with Latin American partners through collaborative economic and diplomatic engagement.

    The Chinese Foreign Ministry has consistently advocated for the removal of Cuba from the U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism list, considering the designation an unjust impediment to the island nation’s development. This diplomatic position coincides with the 65th anniversary of Sino-Cuban relations, commemorated in 2025, which symbolizes the enduring partnership between Beijing and Havana amidst evolving global dynamics.

  • IRENA assembly notes importance of green energy to the Caribbean

    IRENA assembly notes importance of green energy to the Caribbean

    ABU DHABI, UAE – The 16th International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly commenced with a powerful emphasis on the Caribbean’s critical role in the global renewable energy transition. Dominican Republic’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Joel Santos Echeverría, presiding over the assembly, outlined a results-driven agenda focused on tangible benefits for vulnerable regions.

    Echeverría, addressing attendees virtually, highlighted the strategic importance of energy transition for Caribbean nations. He noted that climate change vulnerabilities—including hurricanes, extreme weather events, and sargassum accumulation—pose serious threats to energy security and economic stability. However, he emphasized the region’s vast renewable energy potential and opportunities for innovative solutions, such as converting sargassum into energy through technological research.

    The Dominican Republic’s presidency will prioritize integrating emerging energy technologies into IRENA’s agenda, promoting artificial intelligence and digital solutions for enhanced planning and resource mobilization. The assembly’s theme, “Powering Humanity, Renewable Energy For Shared Prosperity,” reflects a collective aspiration for equity and shared wellbeing through energy transition.

    Echeverría reaffirmed commitments to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030, emphasizing accessible financing and technical assistance. He stressed that shared prosperity requires international solidarity and cooperation, particularly for small island developing states.

    IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera reported record participation with 1,524 attendees from 139 countries and the EU. He described the current energy transformation as “unstoppable,” noting that 92% of new power capacity installed in 2025 was renewable. La Camera emphasized that renewables have become the most competitive electricity generation method, offering economic, resilience, and stability advantages over fossil fuels.

    The assembly occurs amid significant global challenges, including the recent U.S. withdrawal from numerous international organizations. Both leaders emphasized that renewable energy transition is no longer aspirational but an immediate necessity for climate resilience, energy security, and economic stability worldwide.

  • Turning unemployment into opportunity: A coconut seller’s journey

    Turning unemployment into opportunity: A coconut seller’s journey

    In the tropical climate of Saint Lucia’s Rodney Bay, Wendell Dupre has demonstrated remarkable resilience by transforming unemployment into entrepreneurial success. This Castries native, once employed in the hospitality sector, found opportunity in adversity when his previous workplace declared bankruptcy several years ago.

    Leveraging previously underutilized resources from his father’s agricultural property, Dupre established a thriving coconut enterprise that has defied conventional business challenges. Rather than allowing the farm’s produce to go to waste, he recognized the commercial potential in the island’s abundant coconut supply and built a sustainable business model around it.

    Through strategic reinvestment and organic growth, Dupre achieved a significant milestone by acquiring his first vehicle through self-financing, completely bypassing traditional banking loans. His business expansion plans include additional vehicle investments and job creation as operations scale upward. Currently, he operates with crucial support from his partner, who provides both administrative assistance and moral encouragement.

    Market dynamics for Dupre’s venture show fascinating patterns tied to environmental conditions. Sales volume demonstrates direct correlation with temperature fluctuations, with increased demand for refreshing coconut water during peak heat periods. The business particularly benefits from tourist patronage, many of whom experience fresh coconut products for the first time while visiting the Caribbean island.

    Maintaining a six-day work schedule with Sundays reserved for family time, especially with his daughter, Dupre exemplifies the balance between entrepreneurial dedication and personal priorities. When questioned about his long-term commitment to this trade, he affirmed his preference for self-directed work over traditional employment, highlighting the autonomy and satisfaction derived from entrepreneurship.

  • Centaur Withdraws From Proposed BTL Acquisition Talks

    Centaur Withdraws From Proposed BTL Acquisition Talks

    Centaur Communications Corp. Ltd. has terminated negotiations for its proposed acquisition by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), marking a sudden collapse of what was considered a strategically significant corporate transaction. The decision was formally communicated through a letter dated January 11, 2026, from Centaur’s representative Jaime Briceño to BTL Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga.

    Despite acknowledging the transaction’s strong commercial merits, Centaur cited external political pressures and potential reputational damage as primary reasons for withdrawal. Briceño’s correspondence emphasized that the abandonment was not motivated by financial reassessment or valuation concerns, but rather by broader contextual factors that emerged during negotiation proceedings.

    The company statement revealed that after extensive deliberation and consultation, leadership determined that continuing negotiations would impose disproportionate personal and reputational burdens on involved parties. While the acquisition promised substantial operational synergies and long-term stakeholder value, Centaur concluded the political climate rendered the timing inappropriate for such a strategic move.

    This development represents a significant setback for BTL’s expansion strategy and highlights how external political considerations can override sound business rationale in corporate acquisitions. The withdrawal demonstrates increasing corporate sensitivity to political environments and reputational risks in merger and acquisition activities within regulated industries.

  • RayAsta Foundation launches stroke awareness campaign in schools

    RayAsta Foundation launches stroke awareness campaign in schools

    The RayAsta Foundation has unveiled a comprehensive stroke awareness campaign targeting educational institutions across the Dominican Republic. This initiative, scheduled to commence on January 12, 2026, aims to educate students, faculty members, and parents about stroke recognition, prevention strategies, and emergency response protocols.

    Designed as an interactive educational program, the campaign will deliver structured presentations during regular school hours through homeroom sessions and school assemblies. Medical professionals including Jael Joseph, Dr. Shane Mc Intyre, and Dr. Gael Thomas will collaborate with the foundation to ensure accurate information delivery combined with practical guidance.

    The curriculum focuses on four critical components: identifying common stroke symptoms and warning signs, understanding risk factors and preventive measures, implementing appropriate emergency procedures, and emphasizing the vital importance of immediate medical intervention. Through these educational sessions, the foundation seeks to create a ripple effect of awareness that extends beyond school premises into broader communities.

    Campaign coordinator Cecilia St. Hilaire emphasized the universal relevance of stroke education, noting: ‘Our primary objective is to communicate that strokes can affect individuals of any age or background. Early recognition of symptoms fundamentally improves survival rates and recovery outcomes. Knowledge truly serves as the first line of defense.’

    The initiative represents a proactive approach to public health education, potentially establishing a model for other nations facing similar healthcare challenges. By integrating stroke awareness into school environments, the foundation aims to cultivate a generation better equipped to handle cardiovascular emergencies and make informed health decisions.

  • China waarschuwt VS: Gebruik geen andere landen als voorwendsel voor Groenlandbeleid

    China waarschuwt VS: Gebruik geen andere landen als voorwendsel voor Groenlandbeleid

    China has issued a formal statement cautioning the United States against employing other countries as “pretexts” to advance its strategic interests in Greenland, while simultaneously affirming that Beijing’s Arctic activities strictly comply with international law. The diplomatic declaration came during a regular press briefing at China’s Foreign Ministry in response to growing tensions surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump’s expressed interest in acquiring the semi-autonomous Danish territory.

    The geopolitical landscape has intensified significantly this month as Washington pushes forward with its Arctic ambitions, even considering military options to secure control over the vast island. This aggressive posture has triggered strong reactions from both Danish and Greenlandic leadership. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a stark warning that any American acquisition attempt could potentially spell the end of NATO itself.

    In a powerful show of unity, Greenland’s Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen joined forces with leaders from four additional parliamentary parties to release a joint statement asserting that Greenland’s future must be determined exclusively by its own people. The declaration explicitly called for an end to what they characterized as “U.S. contempt for our nation.”

    President Trump reiterated his position aboard Air Force One on Sunday, maintaining that the United States “must take” Greenland to prevent Russian or Chinese acquisition, preferring a negotiated agreement while suggesting it would happen “one way or another.”

    China, which has positioned itself as a “near-Arctic state” since 2018 to expand its regional influence, has announced ambitious plans for a “Polar Silk Road” as part of its global Belt and Road Initiative. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that China’s Arctic activities focus exclusively on promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in accordance with international law. While not explicitly mentioning Greenland, Mao stressed that the Arctic region holds significance for the entire international community and that all nations’ rights to operate in the area should be respected.

    The diplomatic developments set the stage for crucial talks this week between Danish and Greenlandic representatives and U.S. officials in Washington, complemented by planned visits of American senators to Denmark.

  • James to lead Windwards in CWI women’s cricket

    James to lead Windwards in CWI women’s cricket

    Five accomplished cricketers from Saint Lucia are poised to make their mark in the upcoming Cricket West Indies CG United Women’s Super50 Cup and T20 Blaze tournaments, scheduled from January 10 to February 1 in St Vincent and the Grenadines. This prestigious regional competition will showcase four athletes representing the Windward Islands and one competing for the Leewards, signaling a significant moment for women’s cricket in the Caribbean region.

    West Indies allrounder Zaida James has been appointed captain of the Windward Islands squad, which finished fourth in the previous tournament. The team boasts considerable talent including West Indies senior allrounder Nerissa Crafton, wicketkeeper and top-order batter Ashlene Edward, and promising West Indies Under-19 fast bowler Selena Ross. Meanwhile, West Indies veteran Qiana Joseph will bring her expertise to the Leewards team following her relocation to St Kitts & Nevis last year.

    The T20 Blaze matches will be exclusively held at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, offering cricket enthusiasts daily triple-header entertainment. Matches are scheduled for 9:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 7:00 p.m., with evening games conducted under floodlights for enhanced spectator experience.

    Following the T20 Blaze conclusion, the Super 50 tournament will unfold across three venues: Sion Hill, Park Hill and Cumberland grounds. These matches will commence daily at 9:30 a.m., with each team playing three games before the top-ranked team is crowned champion.

    This year’s tournament builds on last season’s dramatic finale where Guyana secured their maiden regional women’s title after an undefeated campaign that culminated in a Super Over victory against Jamaica. Earlier in 2025, Trinidad & Tobago claimed the Super 50 crown with a decisive seven-wicket win over Barbados in the final.

    The limited-over tournaments serve as a crucial competitive platform at the onset of an action-packed cricket calendar for West Indies Women. The team will host Sri Lanka for a white-ball series in late February, followed by an all-format series against Australia the subsequent month. The summer schedule features a tri-nation series against Ireland and Pakistan, plus the highly anticipated 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, for which the regional squad has been intensively preparing.

    Windward Islands Squad: Zaida James (captain), Holly Charles, Nerissa Crafton, Ashlene Edward, Afy Fletcher, Earnisha Fontaine, Aldith Gasper, Amiah Gilbert, Jannillea Glasgow, Shanel Mckie, Carena Noel, Selena Ross, Abini St. Jean, Jaeda Tyrell

    T20 Blaze Match Schedule (Arnos Vale):
    January 13: vs Guyana @ 9:30am
    January 15: vs Trinidad & Tobago @ 2:30pm
    January 17: vs Barbados @ 2:30pm
    January 19: vs Jamaica @ 7:00pm
    January 21: vs Leeward Islands @ 7:00pm
    January 23: Finals Day

    Super 50 Cup Schedule (All matches @ 9:30 am):
    January 27: vs Trinidad & Tobago — Sion Hill
    January 29: vs Leeward Islands — Cumberland
    January 31: vs Guyana — Park Hill

  • Gassy Dread responds to Shugy

    Gassy Dread responds to Shugy

    In an extraordinary response to political opponent MP Kelvin Simon, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly revealed his deep-rooted connections to Rastafarian culture while simultaneously announcing his musical alter ego, ‘Gassy Dread.’ The Prime Minister detailed his childhood socialization within Rastafari communities, naming influential figures including Lumba, The Late King Franki Tafari, Ras Kenya, and Sagai Fu who shaped his formative years.

    Browne emphasized how Rastafarian principles of peace, love, unity, and justice became foundational values that he carried into his political career. He highlighted his administration’s unprecedented actions, including the official apology to Rastafari communities for historical atrocities and the implementation of compensation and reparatory justice measures.

    The Prime Minister distinguished between his political identity and artistic persona, revealing that ‘Gassy Dread’ is a registered writer and producer in the UK with 18 songs scheduled for release across major platforms including YouTube, Spotify, and iTunes later this month. Browne described the musical project as blending roots reggae with contemporary Caribbean rhythms, featuring conscious lyrics focused on cultural pride, social awareness, and themes of resilience and identity.

    In a pointed rebuke to critics, Browne asserted that his musical persona should not be conflated with his political role, stating that while Gaston Browne is the politician who can ‘take on and defeat any opponent,’ Gassy Dread represents the artistic expression of justice, love, and peace. The response concluded with a sharp warning to MP Simon not to be bothered by the success of Gassy Dread and a biblical reference suggesting divine protection for his artistic endeavors.