Carib Scope

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  • Head of regional sustainable land initiative pays courtesy call to St Vincent & the Grenadines’Agriculture and Fisheries minister

    Head of regional sustainable land initiative pays courtesy call to St Vincent & the Grenadines’Agriculture and Fisheries minister

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Dr. Ronen C.A. Francis, Executive Director of the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), conducted high-level meetings with St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ government officials on January 5, 2025. The strategic discussions involved Minister Conroy Huggins of Fisheries, Marine and Land Conservation and Climate Resilience, along with Minister Israel Bruce of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Transformation.

    The dialogue focused on strengthening regional cooperation to address pressing environmental challenges, particularly land degradation across Caribbean nations. Central to the discussions was the imminent launch of Phase II of the CSIDS SOILCARE Project, a collaborative initiative between PISLM and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that includes St. Vincent and the Grenadines among its participating nations.

    The CSIDS SOILCARE Project represents a comprehensive approach to sustainable land management, aiming to restore degraded lands within specified timeframes and geographical areas. This initiative seeks to enhance both the quantity and quality of land resources while sustaining critical ecosystem functions and bolstering regional food security.

    Additional collaborative efforts discussed included the Caribbean Drought Initiative and the Caribbean Land Degradation Neutrality Transformative Project, demonstrating the multifaceted approach being taken to address environmental sustainability in the region.

    Dr. Francis expressed considerable optimism following the productive dialogue, stating, “We are satisfied with the discussions in St. Vincent and believe we can help transform our degraded landscapes.” Both ministers reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to partnership with the intergovernmental organization to achieve Land Degradation Neutrality goals within the country.

  • Series of Earthquakes Rattle Caribbean in first days of 2026 Earthquake – The Westside Gazette

    Series of Earthquakes Rattle Caribbean in first days of 2026 Earthquake – The Westside Gazette

    The Caribbean region experienced a seismically active commencement to the new year as multiple earthquakes were recorded across various territories on January 1st and 2nd. According to monitoring data from the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) based in Trinidad, three distinct tremors affected islands from Trinidad to Guadeloupe within a 24-hour period.

    The most recent seismic event registered as a magnitude 3.5 earthquake occurred precisely 38 minutes into Friday morning, originating at a depth of 10 kilometers. The tremor’s effects were perceptible across a wide geographical area, with residents reporting vibrations 102 kilometers east-southeast of Guadeloupe’s capital Point-à-Pitre, 109 kilometers northeast of Dominica’s Roseau, and 158 kilometers north-northeast of Martinique’s capital Fort-de-France.

    Earlier on New Year’s Day, Trinidad residents experienced two separate seismic occurrences. At 12:11 PM local time, a magnitude 3.7 earthquake shook the nation’s capital Port of Spain along with southern city San Fernando and eastern town Arima. This particular event was notable for its exceptionally shallow depth of merely one kilometer, potentially amplifying the perceived shaking intensity among local populations.

    The day’s seismic activity had commenced hours earlier when a magnitude 3.8 tremor was recorded at 6:24 AM local time. This earthquake produced noticeable effects across multiple Eastern Caribbean territories, including Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis, St. John’s in Antigua and Barbuda, and Brades in Montserrat.

    Despite the multiple seismic events affecting populated areas, the UWI-SRC has confirmed that no injuries or structural damage have been reported in connection with any of the earthquakes. The center continues to monitor the region’s seismic activity, which remains within expected parameters for the geologically active Caribbean plate boundary.

  • US detains sanctioned tanker in Caribbean Sea

    US detains sanctioned tanker in Caribbean Sea

    In a coordinated pre-dawn maritime operation, United States authorities have successfully interdicted the sanctioned oil tanker M/T Sophia in the Caribbean Sea. The Wednesday morning seizure was executed without incident while the vessel navigated international waters, according to an official statement from the US Department of War.

    The operation, conducted in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, targeted what officials describe as a ‘dark fleet’ vessel—a classification referring to ships allegedly operating outside international regulatory frameworks. Such vessels typically feature obscured ownership structures or utilize disabled tracking systems to evade detection.

    US Coast Guard personnel are currently escorting the apprehended tanker to American territory where it will undergo ‘final disposition’ procedures. Authorities have withheld specific details regarding the ship’s cargo composition or crew composition pending further investigation.

    This interdiction represents a tactical component of Operation Southern Spear, an ongoing US initiative designed to combat illicit maritime activities throughout the Western Hemisphere. The Department of War emphasized that the successful operation demonstrates Washington’s continued commitment to enhancing regional security measures and safeguarding US territorial integrity.

    No immediate response has been forthcoming from the vessel’s operators, and the specific nature of the sanctions allegedly violated by M/T Sophia remains undisclosed by investigating authorities.

  • Mod1 vacancy: Network Administrator

    Mod1 vacancy: Network Administrator

    Technology solutions provider Mod1 has announced an opening for an experienced Network Administrator to strengthen its team of high-performing IT professionals. The position centers on delivering premium managed services to a diverse clientele across multiple industries.

    The successful candidate will assume responsibility for designing, implementing, and maintaining both simple and complex network infrastructures. Key duties include the ongoing management and monitoring of client networks to ensure optimal performance and preempt potential issues. This involves the configuration and installation of critical networking hardware such as routers, switches, firewalls, and VPN solutions.

    A core aspect of the role is providing advanced technical support to swiftly resolve service incidents and outages. The administrator will also be instrumental in upholding rigorous network security standards, implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, systematic patching protocols, and access controls to protect sensitive client data and systems.

    Additional responsibilities encompass facilitating seamless client onboarding processes and offering technical mentorship to support teams to foster professional development and continuous learning. The position requires the individual to remain abreast of emerging industry trends and technological innovations to identify opportunities for enhancing service delivery.

    Mod1 has outlined specific qualifications for the role, mandating a minimum of five years of direct experience in network administration. Candidates must possess a deep understanding of networking protocols—including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, VLANs, and routing protocols—along with proficiency in managing hardware from leading vendors like Cisco, Juniper, and Fortinet. Essential attributes also include exceptional organizational skills, the ability to multitask effectively, and a strong commitment to exemplary customer service.

    Interested professionals are invited to submit their CV along with at least two professional references to [email protected] using the subject line ‘Network Administrator Application’. The deadline for applications is January 23, 2026.

  • Government prioritises basketball development with major upgrades and plans for indoor facility

    Government prioritises basketball development with major upgrades and plans for indoor facility

    The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis has embarked on an ambitious basketball infrastructure development program, signaling a new era for the sport nationwide. Minister of Sport Samal Duggins has confirmed that a state-of-the-art indoor basketball facility will be constructed at Warner Park as part of a comprehensive redevelopment of the multi-purpose sports complex.

    While long-term plans progress, the government has immediately allocated approximately EC $400,000 (Eastern Caribbean dollars) for significant upgrades to Basketball City at Victoria Road. The extensive renovations include complete demolition and reconstruction of the court foundation to international standards, removal of obstructive older structures, installation of modern drainage systems, replacement of spectator bleachers and seating supports, and comprehensive modernization of lighting systems that previously hampered viewing experiences. Additional improvements encompass renovated bathroom facilities and dressing rooms.

    Glenville Jeffers, President of the St. Kitts-Nevis Amateur Basketball Association (SKNABA), emphasized the critical nature of these investments, noting that no major renovations had been undertaken at Basketball City since the 1980s. Jeffers highlighted the dual benefit of maintaining outdoor facilities alongside future indoor developments, stating that outdoor venues remain essential for national competitions, revenue generation, summer camps, and community access.

    Minister Duggins acknowledged the nostalgic significance of Basketball City while stressing the necessity of modern indoor facilities for the sport’s advancement. The government has developed three distinct design concepts for indoor facilities and is proceeding with construction plans accordingly. The initiative aims not only to elevate basketball development but also to strengthen community bonds through organized sports rivalries and increased accessibility for neighboring educational institutions including Washington Archibald and Basseterre High Schools.

  • Antigua government receives EC$1m building materials shipment for low-income housing programme

    Antigua government receives EC$1m building materials shipment for low-income housing programme

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated a substantial expansion of its housing assistance program with the arrival of building materials exceeding EC$1 million in value. This shipment, comprising lumber and galvanized steel, reached the islands on Tuesday as part of the Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and Indigent (HAPPI).

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne characterized this delivery as unprecedented in scale, marking the largest single importation of construction materials specifically dedicated to housing support in the nation’s history. The materials have been transported to secure facilities awaiting distribution to qualified households across the country.

    This initiative represents merely the initial phase of a sustained governmental commitment to address housing inadequacies. The administration has pledged to continue annual investments until substantial improvements are achieved in both new home construction and existing structure repairs for vulnerable populations.

    Social and Urban Transformation Minister Rawdon Turner affirmed the comprehensive nature of the program, emphasizing its non-partisan eligibility criteria. Minister Turner reiterated the government’s directive to assist all qualifying citizens irrespective of political affiliation, with the ultimate objective of transforming living conditions for families in need.

    Prospective beneficiaries must complete formal applications through the Social Protection Board, followed by site evaluations to determine specific requirements. Approved applicants will receive direct material delivery, with supplementary estimates prepared when necessary to ensure effective implementation.

    The HAPPI initiative underscores the government’s enhanced focus on social protection frameworks and its dedication to improving living standards for economically disadvantaged citizens through practical infrastructure support.

  • Antigua set for record cruise arrivals as 17,000 passengers expected in one day

    Antigua set for record cruise arrivals as 17,000 passengers expected in one day

    The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda experienced an extraordinary surge in maritime tourism activity, marking one of its busiest cruise days on record. A total of six vessels simultaneously docked at the nation’s harbors, delivering over 12,000 passengers to its shores and showcasing its robust port infrastructure.

    The logistical operation was split between two key ports: five ships berthed at the St. John’s Harbour, with a sixth arriving at Falmouth Harbour. This coordinated arrival demonstrated the ports’ advanced capabilities in efficiently managing substantial visitor influxes during high-demand periods, a critical factor for maintaining a positive passenger experience.

    According to statements from Antigua Cruise Port, this significant influx generated a palpable economic ripple effect. The areas surrounding St. John’s and adjacent communities witnessed a dramatic increase in commercial activity. Local enterprises, including retailers, restaurants, and tour operators, benefited from the elevated foot traffic, providing a substantial boost to the broader tourism ecosystem.

    Cruise tourism is a cornerstone of the national economy, directly fueling growth by creating heightened demand across interconnected service sectors. This includes transportation providers, souvenir shops, and guided excursion companies, all of which see a direct correlation between passenger numbers and revenue.

    Looking ahead, port authorities have projected an even more ambitious milestone. Officials anticipate shattering the current record on January 23rd of the upcoming year, with a staggering forecast of more than 17,000 passengers arriving in a single day. This figure represents the highest daily passenger volume ever predicted for the destination.

    These latest metrics underscore a dual achievement: they solidify Antigua Cruise Port’s ascending status as a preeminent hub in the competitive Caribbean cruise circuit and reaffirm the vital, continuing economic contribution of cruise tourism to the nation’s financial stability and growth.

  • Man, 41, on drug charges after police discover cannabis plots

    Man, 41, on drug charges after police discover cannabis plots

    Law enforcement authorities in Saint Lucia have dismantled a significant cannabis cultivation operation in the Choiseul region, resulting in multiple charges against a local resident. The coordinated operation, conducted on December 29, 2025, involved specialized units from the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit (GNFU) Southern Detachment working in conjunction with Choiseul Police Station personnel.

    During the executed search warrant in Martin, Choiseul, officers discovered and uprooted an extensive cannabis plantation containing 5,580 plants. Additionally, authorities seized 7.3 kilograms of processed cannabis from the residence of 41-year-old Delecus Alphonse, who was subsequently taken into custody.

    The suspect faced three distinct drug-related charges: possession of a controlled drug (cannabis), possession with intent to supply, and cultivation of a controlled plant. Alphonse appeared before the Second District Court in Vieux Fort on December 30, where judicial officials granted bail under specific conditions.

    The bail arrangement requires $3,000 cash or suitable surety backed by land documents for the possession charges, while the cultivation charge carries a $3,600 bail under similar terms. Beyond financial obligations, the court imposed stringent non-monetary conditions including mandatory weekly reporting to Choiseul Police Station every Saturday between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

    Furthermore, Alphonse must surrender all travel documents and is expressly prohibited from leaving Saint Lucia without obtaining formal authorization from the Court. The case represents ongoing efforts by Saint Lucia authorities to combat drug cultivation and distribution networks within the country.

  • Wilkie Cumberbatch juniors begin new term at Luther Thorne amid campus repairs

    Wilkie Cumberbatch juniors begin new term at Luther Thorne amid campus repairs

    Over 120 students from Wilkie Cumberbatch Primary School commenced their Hilary term studies at Luther Thorne Memorial Primary on Tuesday, marking a significant temporary relocation while essential repair works progress at their original Pine campus. The educational transition unfolded smoothly as children passed through the gates of the Wildey Road institution, exchanging farewells with parents before beginning their academic day.

    The Ministry of Education’s operational decision received broadly positive feedback from parental circles, demonstrating community resilience during necessary infrastructure improvements. One mother of a Class Three student conveyed pragmatic acceptance: ‘The ministry has demonstrated competent handling of the situation. Given the circumstances, we appreciate that instructional continuity remains unaffected.’

    Another parent emphasized the psychological aspect of educational displacement: ‘While transitions naturally present adjustment challenges for children, we maintain optimistic expectations for his swift adaptation to the new environment.’ The temporary arrangement showcases Barbados’s educational system’s adaptability in maintaining uninterrupted learning despite facility constraints, with both administrative coordination and community cooperation ensuring minimal disruption to students’ academic progression.

  • Agricultural sector recorded tangible gains in 2025, Ministry says

    Agricultural sector recorded tangible gains in 2025, Ministry says

    In a comprehensive push toward agricultural sustainability, Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development implemented a multi-faceted support program throughout 2025 that yielded significant improvements across the agricultural sector. The initiative addressed critical challenges from disease management to climate adaptation through practical interventions and technological innovation.

    Disease management achieved a major breakthrough with the distribution of 66,000 gallons of complimentary spraying oil to banana and plantain growers combating Black Sigatoka disease. This intervention stabilized production levels and restored farmer confidence, complemented by the introduction of crop insurance providing financial protection against climate-related disruptions. The widespread distribution of ground cover materials further enhanced climate-smart practices while reducing cultivation costs and suppressing weed growth.

    The fisheries sector witnessed substantial upgrades through the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) project, which modernized post-harvest handling, cold storage infrastructure, and market access channels. Maritime safety received significant attention with licensed fishers in Dennery receiving comprehensive safety equipment, emergency grab bags, and specialized hurricane-preparedness training. The Independent Seafood Festival highlighted these advancements while promoting domestic catch consumption to reduce import dependency.

    Human capacity development formed a cornerstone of the agricultural transformation with 22 farmers completing intensive training programs covering advanced agricultural practices, post-harvest management, marketing strategies, and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence applications. Innovation flourished through hands-on training in cost-effective dragon fruit production utilizing galvanized support systems and the successful introduction of seedless watermelon varieties under the Seven Crops Project. Tissue culture technology expanded yam cultivation options, supporting agricultural diversification and long-term sustainability.

    Policy frameworks and institutional capabilities were strengthened through a memorandum of understanding with the Taiwan Technical Mission and the Climate Impact Data Enhancement Project, which upgraded national climate data systems. Collaborative efforts with the Caribbean Cooperative Measurement, Reporting and Verification Hub advanced greenhouse gas accounting methodologies and mitigation measures, including hoop greenhouses and solar-powered irrigation systems. Specialized training for forestry officers enhanced Saint Lucia’s climate reporting capabilities under Paris Agreement commitments.

    Food safety standards were elevated through Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification training at the GLACE Supermarket bakery, ensuring regulatory compliance and protecting public health. The Seven Crops Project further supported farmers through subsidized imports of essential agricultural inputs, reducing production constraints and financial pressures.

    Sustainability initiatives included the establishment of a compost facility at the Bordelais Correctional Facility that converted organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, simultaneously addressing waste management challenges while supporting food production. Community engagement programs such as backyard gardening workshops and the inaugural Agriculture Care Day stimulated household and youth participation in agricultural activities. The Tree Crops Expansion and Rehabilitation Project boosted production of breadfruit, coconut, avocado, and soursop varieties.

    Environmental protection efforts advanced with the deployment of sargassum management equipment donated through UNDP with Japanese funding, mitigating the environmental and economic impacts of seaweed influxes on coastal communities.

    The agricultural year concluded with celebratory events including the Banana and Plantain Festival, which highlighted culinary innovation and nutritional benefits, and a high-level October dialogue that charted the future trajectory of Saint Lucia’s food system transformation toward greater resilience, inclusivity, and nutritional security.