Carib Scope

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  • Closing ceremony commemorates successful AKTA beekeeping project in Castle Bruce

    Closing ceremony commemorates successful AKTA beekeeping project in Castle Bruce

    The Anse Kouanari Tourism Association Inc. (AKTA) hosted a significant Community Impact & Project Milestones Ceremony on December 29, 2025, in Castle Bruce, Dominica, marking the successful completion of a UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme-funded beekeeping project while simultaneously launching a new ecosystem restoration initiative supported by the Dominica National Conservation Trust Fund (DNCTF).

    The ceremony featured the graduation of 21 community members who received certificates for completing comprehensive beekeeping training. Participants shared transformative experiences, highlighting how the project enhanced their skills, boosted confidence, and reinforced their commitment to environmental stewardship. One beneficiary expressed newfound appreciation for bees’ critical role in human survival, announcing plans to double their hive count by early 2026.

    Key government and industry representatives offered strong endorsements during the event. Mr. Keian Stephenson, Director of Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, praised the initiative for its potential to increase pollinator populations and enhance honey production along Dominica’s eastern coast. Mr. Kevin James, President of the National Beekeeper’s Cooperative Society Ltd., emphasized bees’ vital role in environmental sustainability while reaffirming his organization’s partnership with AKTA to establish Dominica as a regional beekeeping leader. He encouraged graduates to transition ‘from training to practice, from interest to involvement, and from individual effort to collective growth.’

    AKTA’s newly launched DNCTF-supported project aims to build upon the apiary program’s success by advancing ecosystem restoration, developing climate-resilient livelihoods, and expanding community participation in conservation activities throughout the Castle Bruce District. The association also announced an upcoming free plant propagation training program scheduled for late January, inviting local farmers and residents to participate.

    AKTA extended gratitude to multiple organizations including UNDP GEF SGP, DNCTF, Global Affairs Canada, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, and CUSO International for their funding and collaborative support. Looking ahead, AKTA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable development, conserving biodiversity, and empowering youth and communities through inclusive, locally-driven strategies.

  • Croney hails emerging talent in West Indies U19 squad

    Croney hails emerging talent in West Indies U19 squad

    Grenadian cricket authority Raphael Croney has expressed strong confidence in the West Indies Under-19 team’s capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in Namibia and Zimbabwe. Croney, who serves as second vice president of the Grenada Cricket Association and an active coach, recently provided commentary during the youth One Day International series between the West Indies and England teams.

    The West Indies Under-19 squad demonstrated their competitive edge during a seven-match ODI series against England Under-19s held at Grenada National Stadium in St. George’s from November 16 to December 1, 2025. The Caribbean team emerged victorious with a convincing 5-2 series win, showcasing exceptional talent that has drawn significant attention from cricket experts.

    In an exclusive interview with St. Lucia Times sports contributor Joseph Reds Perierra, Croney highlighted several promising players who displayed outstanding performance throughout the series. He particularly emphasized Vitel Lawes, the Jamaican leg-spinner who brings unusual bowling variety to the West Indies lineup with his ability to deliver both chinaman and googly techniques.

    Croney also praised team captain Joshua Dorne for his remarkable batting achievements, including scoring a century, multiple 90s, and consistent 80-plus scores that played a critical role in the team’s success. The coach noted the exceptional partnership between Dorne and Jonathan Van Lange, whose collaborative batting efforts repeatedly rescued the West Indies from challenging situations during crucial matches.

    Additionally, Croney identified emerging left-arm pace bowler Jakeem Pollard as another standout talent due to his ability to move the ball effectively in both directions. The cricket administrator emphasized the importance of recognizing these exceptionally talented players and ensuring they receive proper preparation for advancement to higher competitive levels.

  • Over 30 per cent increase in visitors in 2025 cements Mas Domnik as one of the most anticipated event in Dominica, say officials

    Over 30 per cent increase in visitors in 2025 cements Mas Domnik as one of the most anticipated event in Dominica, say officials

    Dominica’s premier cultural celebration, Mas Domnik, is poised to deliver an unprecedented spectacle in 2026 following a remarkably successful previous season that generated substantial economic benefits for the island nation. According to official figures released by the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), the most recent Carnival season achieved a striking 34 percent increase in visitor arrivals while circulating approximately XCD 25 million within the local economy.

    During a press conference hosted by DDA officials, organizers announced that Mas Domnik 2026 will formally commence on January 10, 2026, with an Official Opening and National Parade. The extended festival period will run from December 13, 2025, through February 26, 2026, featuring an expansive lineup of over forty distinct events across the island.

    Gerard Cools-Lartigue, Chair of the Dominica Festivals Committee, emphasized the event’s dual significance: “Mas Domnik stands as one of the most anticipated events on Dominica’s calendar with direct impact on economic activity, employment, and visitor arrivals. The Board continues to focus on strong governance, effective coordination, and ongoing improvements to ensure the festival’s success.”

    Marva Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority, outlined ambitious plans building upon the previous season’s achievements: “Last season’s impressive results set a high standard that motivates us to focus on stronger organization, greater creativity, and wider participation. We are committed to presenting a vibrant array of festivities that authentically showcase Dominica’s rich cultural heritage.”

    The comprehensive event schedule promises to engage both residents and international visitors through diverse programming that highlights the nation’s unique traditions and creative expressions. Organizers have positioned Mas Domnik as both a cultural showcase and significant economic driver, demonstrating how cultural preservation and tourism development can synergistically benefit Caribbean nations.

  • Over 32,000 cruise passengers due this week

    Over 32,000 cruise passengers due this week

    Saint Lucia’s cruise tourism sector is experiencing a significant boost with projections indicating over 32,000 passengers will arrive during the week of January 5-11. This substantial influx comes from 18 scheduled vessel calls at Castries, though actual disembarkation numbers remain subject to change based on operational adjustments.

    Port authorities have reported 14 successful ship arrivals thus far, highlighted by Monday’s docking of MSC Virtuosa—the week’s largest vessel—which delivered 6,334 passengers to Pointe Seraphine. The Norwegian Epic contributed an additional 4,228 passengers during midweek operations. Four more ships are anticipated through the weekend, including AIDAperla with an estimated 3,400 passengers.

    This sustained maritime activity demonstrates robust utilization of Castries’ five piers despite ongoing infrastructure enhancements. Global Ports Holding (GPH) is currently funding substantial upgrades to both Castries and Soufrière cruise facilities as part of comprehensive port reconstruction initiatives.

    In strategic developments, Lancelot Arnold—GPH’s Eastern Caribbean Director and CEO of Saint Lucia Cruise Ports—revealed new approaches to stimulate year-round cruise traffic. In a recently published interview, Arnold emphasized targeted outreach to operators specializing in smaller vessels and expedition-style voyages, alongside promoting niche market products including wellness retreats, cultural experiences, and culinary tourism packages.

    Further strategies under exploration include berth optimization techniques and regional itinerary coordination with neighboring destinations such as Antigua and Barbuda, indicating a collaborative approach to enhancing Eastern Caribbean cruise tourism.

  • Marrero Cruz reiterates need to strengthen government structures

    Marrero Cruz reiterates need to strengthen government structures

    Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero has utilized social media platform X to outline the government’s strategic approach to navigating the nation’s current difficulties. Emphasizing the necessity of public involvement and supervisory mechanisms, Marrero articulated a vision grounded in collective effort to identify and implement solutions.

    The Prime Minister conveyed a sense of determined optimism, invoking the teachings of revolutionary leaders Fidel and Raul Castro. “We will emerge from this adverse context by fighting, as #Fidel and #Raul taught us,” he stated, framing the current struggle within Cuba’s historical revolutionary narrative.

    His communications also included celebratory remarks for the 15th anniversaries of Cuba’s youngest provinces, Artemisa and Mayabeque. This recognition of provincial milestones coincides with a broader governmental review process.

    Marrero specifically referenced recent Extraordinary Provincial Councils conducted in Pinar del Rio and Artemisa. These assemblies served to evaluate and acknowledge each region’s potential to enhance their contribution to national economic output and improve citizen welfare.

    Parallel to these provincial councils, extraordinary plenary sessions of the Communist Party’s provincial committees are being conducted across the Cuban archipelago. These high-level meetings, personally led by President and First Secretary of the Central Committee Miguel Diaz-Canel, are designed to critically assess Cuba’s position within a new historical moment.

    The comprehensive agenda for these party meetings includes formulating strategic work plans leading to 2026, addressing national defense requirements, and analyzing the pressing economic and social conditions facing the Caribbean nation. This coordinated effort reflects the government’s attempt to harmonize regional capabilities with national objectives during a period of significant complexity in both domestic and international affairs.

  • We will defend Cuba, says FM

    We will defend Cuba, says FM

    Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has issued a forceful condemnation of United States foreign policy, accusing Washington of six decades of aggression and a persistent campaign to impose its will on sovereign nations. The diplomatic broadside was delivered via the social media platform X, framing the long-standing conflict as a battle between raw power and principled international law.

    Rodríguez characterized the US position as one backed by ‘enormous military power’ and economic might, supplemented by what he described as a ‘vast experience of aggression and crimes.’ This portrayal positioned the United States as a hegemon relying on force rather than diplomacy. In direct contrast, the Minister asserted that Cuba’s strength derives from ‘reason, international law, and the patriotic spirit of its people,’ framing the island nation as the moral and legal underdog in the protracted dispute.

    The core of the message was an unequivocal declaration of Cuban resilience and sovereignty. ‘We Cubans are not willing to sell our country or give in to threats and blackmail,’ Rodríguez stated, emphasizing the nation’s ‘inalienable prerogative’ to determine its own destiny independently. This statement was presented not as mere rhetoric but as a proven commitment forged through decades of resistance.

    Rodríguez further contextualized his remarks within Cuba’s ongoing diplomatic efforts, noting that his government has consistently denounced US ‘hostile policies’ in multiple international forums. A key point of contention highlighted was the alleged reactivation of the Monroe Doctrine, a 19th-century US policy that Rodríguez accused the US of using to justify military interventions and hegemony throughout the Latin American region. The Minister’s concluding vow, ‘We will defend Cuba. Those who know us know that it is a firm, categorical and proven commitment,’ served as a definitive summary of the nation’s unyielding stance.

  • Ministry targets nighttime visibility after highway incidents

    Ministry targets nighttime visibility after highway incidents

    Infrastructure authorities have launched an urgent safety enhancement initiative focusing on nighttime visibility improvements along the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project. This decisive action comes in response to two separate vehicular incidents occurring within hours of each other on January 6th and 7th along the Cul-de-Sac Road construction corridor.

    Project Management Unit investigations reveal both incidents involved vehicles entering an open excavation trench in Lot 2A, a section currently under the operational control of Namalco Construction Services Limited. While preliminary assessments confirmed the presence of standard barricades, the pre-dawn darkness appears to have compromised the effectiveness of reflective safety installations.

    The Ministry’s Project Management Unit has initiated comprehensive discussions with the contractor to reevaluate and reinforce nighttime visibility protocols. Key measures under consideration include upgraded reflective signage, enhanced barricade illumination systems, and additional warning mechanisms specifically designed for low-light conditions.

    Officials emphasized that contractual obligations mandate contractors to implement robust safety measures including appropriate barricading, reflective elements, and warning signage throughout construction zones. The PMU maintains continuous oversight to ensure compliance with these safety requirements.

    However, authorities simultaneously underscored the shared responsibility paradigm for construction zone safety. Motorists are being strongly advised to exercise heightened vigilance, reduce speeds significantly, and maintain maximum attentiveness to signage when navigating active construction areas during nighttime hours. The PMU specifically noted that excessive speed and driver distraction dramatically diminish reaction capabilities when encountering unexpected road hazards.

    The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing safety protocol evaluations and maintains continuous collaboration with contractors to ensure public protection as the critical infrastructure project advances.

  • Tributes pour in for victim in fatal Vieux Fort crash

    Tributes pour in for victim in fatal Vieux Fort crash

    The community of Desruisseaux, Micoud, and the wider Saint Lucian society are grappling with profound grief following the tragic death of Dayna Tobierre in a vehicular accident at Sandy Beach, Vieux Fort. The fatal incident occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, January 8, when the vehicle Tobierre was operating collided with a tree.

    According to official reports from the Saint Lucia Fire Service, emergency units were dispatched to the scene at approximately 1:30 p.m. following distress calls. First responders discovered the vehicle with two occupants: Tobierre in the driver’s seat and an adult male passenger. Using specialized equipment, rescue teams successfully extricated both individuals from the wreckage.

    Tragically, medical personnel confirmed Tobierre showed no vital signs at the scene and was declared deceased. The male passenger survived the collision but sustained significant bodily injuries requiring immediate medical attention. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading to the crash.

    The sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Tobierre’s personal and professional circles. Boost Marketing, her employer where she served as a senior brand promoter, issued an emotional tribute characterizing her as ‘a reliable, intelligent, and fun-loving soul’ who consistently brought exceptional energy and professionalism to her role.

    Friends and former classmates have created an outpouring of heartfelt reminiscences across social platforms, universally describing Tobierre as possessing a radiant joyfulness, unwavering kindness, and a perpetually positive demeanor. Community members have organized memorial gatherings to celebrate her impactful yet tragically shortened life.

  • US withdrawal from UN bodies overshadowing IRENA assembly

    US withdrawal from UN bodies overshadowing IRENA assembly

    ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates – The commencement of the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi this Saturday is occurring under the significant cloud of the United States’ decision to withdraw from this and 65 other international organizations. This move, announced by the Trump administration, represents a major shift in U.S. engagement with multilateral institutions, particularly those focused on climate and sustainable energy.

    The assembly’s inaugural session, titled ‘Pathways for a Renewable Future across Latin America and Caribbean subregions,’ is expected to draw numerous Caribbean delegates, including energy ministers, to discuss regional energy transition strategies.

    IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera expressed profound regret regarding the U.S. decision, emphasizing the nation’s historical role as a key stakeholder in advancing renewable energy through international cooperation. ‘Renewable energy is smart economics and will be the decisive factor in the competitiveness of economies,’ La Camera stated, highlighting renewables as a powerful catalyst for business opportunities, job creation, and technological innovation.

    La Camera further articulated that the global energy transition offers a historic opportunity for nations to achieve substantial economic returns, from reducing power costs to strategic investments. He underscored that renewables are essential for ensuring energy security and strengthening geopolitical positions in today’s uncertain global environment.

    The IRENA head affirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to supporting countries and businesses in accelerating the global energy transition, delivering the socioeconomic, environmental, and security benefits of renewable energy. While acknowledging valuable U.S. contributions to IRENA’s work among its 171 members, La Camera left the door open for future renewed engagement.

    The U.S. withdrawal, directed by President Trump and implemented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, targets organizations deemed ‘wasteful, ineffective, or harmful’ to American interests. Rubio’s statement characterized these institutions as redundant, mismanaged, poorly run, or threats to U.S. sovereignty and prosperity.

    Among the entities from which the U.S. is withdrawing are several pivotal green energy and environmental organizations, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), UN Energy, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, signaling a comprehensive disengagement from global climate governance frameworks.

  • Local basketball coaches complete FIBA training course

    Local basketball coaches complete FIBA training course

    A cohort of basketball coaches from Saint Lucia has successfully concluded an advanced, six-day certification program conducted by renowned FIBA instructor Nelson Isley. The intensive training, which also included participants from Dominica and Guyana, took place at the Beausejour Gymnasium in December and represents a significant shift in how the International Basketball Federation qualifies its coaches worldwide.

    Mr. Isley, a former NBA draftee from 1971, detailed the comprehensive overhaul of FIBA’s certification methodology. Developed in partnership with the World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC), the new system moves beyond theoretical knowledge to prioritize hands-on, practical coaching demonstration. This paradigm shift ensures that certified coaches possess verifiable skills to effectively teach and lead players.

    The rigorous program requires candidates to undergo written examinations and, most critically, to demonstrate their instructional capabilities on the court. Coaches are assigned fundamental topics such as passing or dribbling and are evaluated against a strict set of criteria based on their teaching performance. Upon completion, participants are designated as either ‘competent’ or ‘not yet competent,’ with successful coaches earning official FIBA WABC Level One certification and inclusion in the global database maintained in Geneva.

    Isley expressed considerable optimism regarding the participants’ performance, noting he was ‘pleasantly surprised’ by the high caliber of coaching talent. He emphasized the program’s vital role in elevating basketball’s standing within the Caribbean sporting landscape, where cricket, football, and track and field traditionally dominate. By raising the standard of coaching, FIBA aims to directly improve player development from the grassroots level, particularly focusing on youth aged 9-12, thereby fostering both athletic proficiency and personal growth.