Carib Scope

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  • Fire destroys historic buildings, businesses in Dominica’s capital

    Fire destroys historic buildings, businesses in Dominica’s capital

    The Caribbean island nation of Dominica faced a severe crisis as a ferocious pre-dawn fire engulfed sections of its capital city, Roseau, on Monday morning. The conflagration, which erupted along the historic King George IV Street, inflicted substantial damage on multiple commercial establishments and architectural landmarks.

    Initial reports indicate the blaze caused catastrophic structural damage to several businesses, including the complete destruction of Jolly’s Pharmacy, one of the country’s leading pharmaceutical providers. The intense flames threatened numerous other enterprises and reportedly impacted a local church, creating widespread disruption throughout the commercial district.

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit promptly addressed the nation, expressing profound sympathy for affected business proprietors and property owners while acknowledging the community’s collective anxiety. Remarkably, despite the magnitude of the destruction, authorities confirmed no fatalities resulted from the incident—a fact the Prime Minister highlighted as particularly fortunate given the circumstances.

    Emergency response teams confronted exceptionally challenging conditions while combating the inferno, with strong morning winds significantly hampering firefighting operations. Prime Minister Skerrit publicly praised the courage and dedication of fire crews who worked in what he described as a ‘heroic manner’ against the rapidly spreading flames.

    Government officials have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the fire’s origin and contributing factors. The Prime Minister assured citizens that findings would be transparently communicated once the investigation concludes. As recovery efforts commence, the focus has shifted toward supporting affected businesses and property owners through the rebuilding process, with many characterizing this as one of Dominica’s most significant fire incidents in recent history.

  • Parties and Candidates Trade Jabs as St. Philip’s North By-Election Campaign Heats Up

    Parties and Candidates Trade Jabs as St. Philip’s North By-Election Campaign Heats Up

    The political atmosphere in St. Philip’s North has reached a fever pitch as the March 16 by-election approaches, with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) and the United Progressive Party (UPP) engaging in increasingly hostile exchanges. Both parties and their candidates have escalated their rhetoric during the critical final phase of campaigning.

    The ABLP recently circulated images of a derelict building, attempting to associate UPP candidate Alex Browne with the neglected structure. Browne’s campaign team vehemently denied these allegations, clarifying that the property in question is privately owned and located in Seatons. They revealed the building was utilized over twenty years ago by former UPP candidate Francis ‘Frankie’ Nunes Jr., who has since passed away. Browne’s representatives emphasized that their candidate has no connections to the property and that their campaign headquarters is officially established in Willikies.

    George Wehner, a prominent Browne supporter, publicly accused the ABLP of engaging in voter deception tactics. He asserted that the ruling party was deliberately attempting to mislead constituents by creating false associations between Browne and abandoned properties, expressing confidence that voters would not be swayed by such tactics.

    Meanwhile, Browne’s campaign has redirected focus toward their central message of constituency transformation. During a recent rally in Willikies, a keynote speaker declared, ‘The time for change is now,’ while explicitly urging supporters to ‘vote Alex Browne.’ The event concluded with enthusiastic chants of ‘Alex is next’ as attendees committed to ‘reject Baltimore’ – a reference to ABLP candidate Sherfield Bowen.

    The digital campaign landscape reflects the partisan divide, with ABLP supporters utilizing hashtags such as #VoteBaltimore and #SafeAndSecure, while UPP advocates have mobilized around #VoteAlexBrowne and #PeopleFirst. With polling day rapidly approaching, both political organizations appear to be refining their offensive strategies as this tightly contested election enters its decisive stage.

  • OPINION: Why Persad-Bissessar should practice sober regionalism, not mere ramblings!

    OPINION: Why Persad-Bissessar should practice sober regionalism, not mere ramblings!

    The recent CARICOM summit became a stage for Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persaud-Bissessar to demonstrate precisely what ails Caribbean political leadership—a propensity for complaint over constructive action. Her performance revealed a troubling pattern where regional leaders excel at diagnosing problems but fail miserably at implementing solutions.

    Rather than offering substantive proposals for strengthening regional integration, Persaud-Bissessar engaged in diplomatic theater that embarrassed the Caribbean community before international observers. Her public quarrel with colleagues over allegedly unanswered correspondence regarding a kidnapping case represented precisely the type of undiplomatic behavior that undermines regional credibility. When non-state actors, investors, and multilateral donors witness such public fissures, it damages the perception of stable regionalism necessary for meaningful partnerships.

    The Prime Minister’s fixation on marginal issues—particularly her criticism of regional political parties supporting sister organizations across borders—exposed remarkable political immaturity. In a region where parties share common origins, histories, and ideological convictions, such cross-border support represents natural political solidarity rather than the crisis she portrays. Her objections ring particularly hollow given evidence of her own party members campaigning for others in the region.

    More troubling still is Persaud-Bissessar’s selective application of principles regarding foreign relations. While criticizing CARICOM members for engaging with Venezuela, she conveniently ignores how these very relationships have provided hurricane relief, concessionary energy terms through Petrocaribe, and development support that benefited the entire region. Her alignment with Western powers appears so complete that she fails to recognize the contradiction in advocating Caribbean autonomy while simultaneously suggesting citizens shouldn’t ‘badmouth the US’ for fear of visa repercussions.

    The Prime Minister’s approach to crime and security matters proves equally problematic. Her dismissal of CARICOM’s established principle of the Caribbean as a zone of peace—while ignoring how US militarization in the Caribbean Sea undermines this very concept—demonstrates a failure of coherent policy thinking. Similarly, her narrow focus on crime statistics without acknowledging the regional firearms pipeline from the United States shows an inability to address root causes.

    Ultimately, Persaud-Bissessar’s summit performance revealed a leader more committed to short-term political positioning than long-term regional advancement. Rather than contributing to solutions for implementation deficiencies, outmoded governance systems, or geopolitical tensions affecting CARICOM, she offered only complaints and contradictions. This approach serves neither Trinidad’s self-interest nor the broader regional good, highlighting the urgent need for leadership that can translate popular agony into hope through concrete actions rather than empty rhetoric.

  • Magnitude 3.5 Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    Magnitude 3.5 Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    A moderate seismic event measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale was detected in the Caribbean Sea on Monday afternoon, as reported by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC). The tremor occurred precisely at 2:07 p.m. local time (18:07 UTC), with its epicenter positioned approximately 146 kilometers northwest of St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.

    The earthquake’s hypocentral depth was recorded at 55 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, with precise coordinates placing it at latitude 17.92° north and longitude 62.89° west. According to seismic mapping data, the epicenter was additionally located 71 kilometers north-northwest of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, and 146 kilometers northwest of Brades, Montserrat.

    UWI-SRC officials emphasized that the preliminary location data was automatically generated through advanced computer algorithms and remains subject to potential revision following comprehensive expert analysis. The research center maintains standard protocols for verifying all automatically processed seismic information through manual review processes.

    Initial assessments from regional authorities indicate no immediate reports of structural damage, injuries, or significant impact on infrastructure across affected areas. The earthquake’s considerable depth likely contributed to minimized surface effects throughout the northeastern Caribbean region. Seismologists continue to monitor aftershock potential while confirming this event represents routine seismic activity within the geologically active Caribbean plate boundary system.

  • Directorate of Gender Affairs Invites the Public to Free “Give to Gain” Health Fair

    Directorate of Gender Affairs Invites the Public to Free “Give to Gain” Health Fair

    The Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA), in partnership with the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS), will host a comprehensive “Give to Gain” Health Fair on March 6, 2026, as a centerpiece of International Women’s Day Week celebrations. The event will take place at the DoGA headquarters on Friendly Alley, St. John’s, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with free admission for all community members regardless of gender.

    The fair will commence with a special recognition ceremony honoring four young female philanthropists whose community service embodies the “Give to Gain” philosophy. This plaque presentation ceremony will spotlight women whose contributions have significantly benefited Antiguan society, with organizers encouraging early attendance to show support for these awardees.

    Attendees will have access to an extensive array of preventive health services including HIV/AIDS testing, HPV vaccinations, cervical cancer registration, and basic health screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and cholesterol levels. The event aims to remove barriers to healthcare access by bringing essential medical services directly to the community.

    Jamie Saunder, Director of the Directorate of Gender Affairs, emphasized the event’s dual purpose: “This initiative not only provides critical health services but also celebrates the often unrecognized women whose generosity strengthens our nation. Their quiet consistency in giving creates ripple effects that benefit our entire society.”

    The Directorate encourages widespread participation from individuals, families, and workplace groups, highlighting that preventive health measures require minimal time investment but can yield significant long-term health benefits through early detection and intervention.

  • Grenada hosts first regional headquarters for UNCCD-aligned sustainable land management organization

    Grenada hosts first regional headquarters for UNCCD-aligned sustainable land management organization

    In a landmark event for regional environmental cooperation, the Caribbean has established its first intergovernmental organization dedicated exclusively to implementing the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) officially inaugurated its permanent headquarters in Grenada on January 25, 2026, marking a transformative moment in the region’s approach to sustainable development.

    The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Grenadian officials and regional representatives, symbolized a strengthened commitment to addressing environmental challenges through collaborative action. Dr. Ronen C.A. Francis, PISLM’s Executive Director, characterized the establishment as a historic achievement that transitions the organization from policy development to concrete implementation.

    Strategic positioning of the headquarters adjacent to the Inter-Caribbean Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) delegation office represents a conscious shift toward integrated development approaches. As noted by Hon. Kerryne James, Minister for Climate Resilience, the Environment, and Renewable Energy, this co-location exemplifies the necessary convergence of agriculture, land management, and climate resilience efforts.

    The Grenadian government, through its Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, and Forestry and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, solidified its support by signing the Headquarters Agreement in June 2025, establishing the nation as the permanent administrative center for regional land management initiatives.

    PISLM’s operational framework encompasses ambitious programs including the SOILCARE initiative and a forthcoming Caribbean Drought Initiative designed to address pressing environmental threats. These efforts align with both the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development—particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 13 (Climate Action)—and the principles established in the Barbados Programme of Action for Small Island Developing States.

    Minister James urged remaining member states to finalize their Host Country Agreements and Letters of Accession to accelerate national-level project implementation, emphasizing that ground presence of organizations like PISLM significantly enhances accessibility, collaboration, and effectiveness of regional environmental initiatives.

  • Students Explore 70+ Careers at Second Annual Agriculture Expo

    Students Explore 70+ Careers at Second Annual Agriculture Expo

    Antigua’s Multipurpose Cultural Center became a hub of agricultural innovation on February 26, 2026, as the Second Annual Agriculture Career Fair and Expo commenced at 9:30 a.m. The event successfully bridged the gap between education and industry, bringing together students, educators, and agricultural professionals for a transformative exploration of modern agricultural careers.

    Under the expert moderation of Emerald David, the opening ceremony featured prominent figures including Permanent Secretary Mr. Walter Christopher, Agriculture Director Mr. Gregory Bailey, Education Officer Mrs. Nicolette Francis, and Communications Head Miss Carol-Faye Bynoe-George. The gathering addressed a fundamental question that resonated throughout the event: “Can we survive without food?” – with participants unanimously concluding that agriculture remains essential to human existence.

    The expo showcased how contemporary agriculture has evolved into a sophisticated field integrating science, technology, and entrepreneurship. Students from eight secondary institutions—Antigua Grammar School, All Saints Secondary School, Clare Hall Secondary School, Jennings Secondary School, Ottos Comprehensive School, Pares Secondary School, Sir Novelle Richards Academy, and St. Mary’s Secondary School—participated in immersive learning experiences.

    Following the ceremonial proceedings, attendees engaged with an compelling video presentation illustrating the diverse career trajectories within modern agriculture. The educational component transitioned into an interactive knowledge competition that saw Skyler Joseph from Jennings Secondary School claim first place, followed by Jullisa George (All Saints Secondary School) and Abenaa Yearwood (Sir Novelle Richards Academy) in second and third positions respectively.

    The Ministry of Agriculture expressed profound gratitude to numerous stakeholders including IICA, ABAFY, Mr. Euton Henry, Mr. Itajah Simmons, Antigua and Barbuda Network of Rural Women Producers, GARDC, and Mrs. Miriam Samuel. Special recognition was extended to the Agricultural Extension Division, Crop Research Unit, Blue Economy initiative, Veterinary and Livestock Division, and Communications Unit for their contributions. Mr. Brent Georges and the Agricultural Extension Division received particular acknowledgment for their instrumental role in coordinating and executing the successful event.

    The expo concluded with a powerful reaffirmation that agriculture represents not merely historical significance but present necessity and future opportunity—with the youth positioned to drive this vital sector forward.

  • One of the oldest buildings in Roseau destroyed by fire, says historian Dr Honychurch

    One of the oldest buildings in Roseau destroyed by fire, says historian Dr Honychurch

    A catastrophic fire erupted in the historic district of Roseau, Dominica, during the early hours of Monday morning, reducing several architecturally significant buildings to ashes. The blaze originated near the Old Market area, consuming structures that formed an integral part of the island’s cultural heritage.

    Prominent historian Dr. Lennox Honychurch confirmed through social media channels that among the destroyed properties stood a building dating back to 1784. This particular structure held exceptional historical value, having been immortalized in an original painting by Agostino Brunias, the Italian-born artist who documented Caribbean life during the late 18th century.

    Brunias, who resided in Dominica until his death in 1796, created artworks that remain priceless historical records of the island’s social and cultural landscape. His painting from 1784 clearly depicts the now-destroyed building positioned at the left portion of the canvas. The artist’s works gained such renown that they were reportedly admired by Haitian revolutionary leader Toussaint Louverture.

    Additional businesses and structures suffered severe damage or complete destruction, including Jolly’s Pharmacy, the Wolsey Edwards building, MacIntyre’s Gym, and Blomquist Lawyers’ Office. Photographic evidence shared by Dr. Honychurch reveals the complete devastation of the historic area, showing collapsed walls and smoldering ruins where vibrant cultural landmarks once stood.

    The loss represents an irreversible blow to Dominica’s architectural heritage, particularly affecting buildings that had survived for nearly two and a half centuries. The destruction of these physical connections to the island’s colonial past has created profound sadness among cultural preservationists and local residents alike.

  • Investing in Caribbean Creativity on the Global Stage

    Investing in Caribbean Creativity on the Global Stage

    Grenada is poised to make its ninth appearance at the 2026 Venice Biennale, securing its position on one of the world’s most prestigious visual arts platforms. This participation transcends mere national representation, emerging as a strategic cultural initiative with profound regional and global implications.

    The Grenada Pavilion will be hosted at Spazio Berlendis under the thematic concept ‘The Poetics of Correspondence,’ facilitating reflective cross-cultural dialogue. The exhibition will feature an impressive roster of artists including Arthur Daniel, Lilo Nido and Chris Mast, Edward Bowen, Russel Watson, Josine Dupont, Alexandra Kordas, and The Holzwege Group.

    This cultural endeavor carries significant regional importance by advancing CARICOM and OECS integration while expanding economic opportunities within the Caribbean creative sector. It establishes crucial pathways for emerging Caribbean artists to access international networks and potentially strengthens partnerships across education, tourism, and innovation sectors.

    Globally, the pavilion builds upon networks established since Grenada’s inaugural 2015 participation, elevating Caribbean perspectives within international discourse and creating diplomatic and economic bridges beyond conventional trade channels.

    The 2026 edition marks a watershed moment for Caribbean representation, with The Bahamas also returning after a 13-year absence. Additionally, numerous Caribbean artists have been selected for exhibition in the Biennale’s main Arsenale hall, including Álvaro Barrington, Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons, Carolina Caycedo, Annalee Davis, and Ebony G. Patterson among others.

    Despite its volunteer-driven organization, the project requires substantial funding for exhibition production, venue rental, international shipping, communications, and artist accommodations. The Grenada Arts Council, a registered non-profit, is urgently seeking corporate partners who recognize culture’s power as an economic driver and brand differentiator.

    Sponsors will receive prominent recognition in exhibition catalogues and promotional materials throughout the seven-month event, with their contributions permanently archived in the historical record. This initiative represents a proven platform for positioning Grenada and the wider Caribbean as creative leaders on the world stage.

  • Immigration Department introduces Grenada’s online E/D card

    Immigration Department introduces Grenada’s online E/D card

    In a landmark move toward digital governance, the Caribbean nation of Grenada has officially transitioned from paper-based immigration forms to a fully digital Embarkation/Disembarkation (E/D) card system. This innovative platform, which became fully operational on March 1, 2026, represents the country’s first comprehensive digital solution for traveler processing and signifies a major advancement in its public service modernization agenda.

    The newly launched online system enables all incoming and outgoing travelers to submit mandatory entry information digitally prior to their arrival or departure. This pre-clearance capability is designed to dramatically reduce processing times at border checkpoints, particularly at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient experience for both international visitors and returning citizens.

    Architected around three fundamental pillars, Grenada’s digital E/D card system prioritizes user experience, data security, and international compliance. The platform features an intuitively designed interface that guides users through a simplified submission process, requiring minimal time and technical proficiency. From a security perspective, the system incorporates advanced encryption protocols and robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive personal information against potential breaches. Furthermore, the digital framework aligns with global travel standards, reinforcing Grenada’s commitment to maintaining contemporary security practices while enhancing its reputation as a traveler-friendly destination.

    The Grenadian government recommends that travelers complete the digital form at least one day before their scheduled departure or prior to leaving their initial port of embarkation by accessing the official portal at edcard.gov.gd. This proactive approach ensures that immigration procedures are completed seamlessly, allowing for accelerated processing upon physical arrival at Grenadian entry points.