Carib Scope

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  • NSWMA secures World Bank grant for new tyre shredder

    NSWMA secures World Bank grant for new tyre shredder

    Antigua and Barbuda’s National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has obtained a critical World Bank-funded grant to acquire a state-of-the-art tire shredding system. This advanced machinery represents a significant technological upgrade, engineered to process all tire varieties—from standard passenger tires to challenging steel-belted and heavy-duty commercial tires that have historically posed disposal difficulties.

    According to NSWMA General Manager Indira James-Henry, the current shredding equipment at the local landfill has proven fundamentally inadequate for the nation’s needs. Its limited capacity and inability to handle steel-reinforced materials have created a persistent bottleneck in waste processing operations.

    The acquisition of this specialized shredder is expected to transform the country’s approach to tire waste management. Officials project substantial improvements in processing efficiency and safety protocols, directly addressing the chronic overcrowding at landfill sites. This intervention strengthens the overall resilience of the national waste management infrastructure.

    James-Henry highlighted the severity of the tire accumulation problem, revealing that approximately five million discarded tires are currently stockpiled across disposal facilities. This massive buildup presents multifaceted threats to community wellbeing, including heightened fire hazards, environmental contamination risks, and potential public health concerns—challenges that are particularly acute with steel-reinforced tires that resist conventional processing methods.

  • New One Communications CEO appointed

    New One Communications CEO appointed

    In a significant leadership transition, Guyana’s telecommunications sector witnesses the appointment of Abraham Smith as the new Chief Executive Officer of One Communications. The announcement, made on January 7, 2026, positions Smith to steer both residential operations and the corporate division Brava through a period of accelerated national development.

    Smith brings substantial regional expertise to the role, boasting over twenty years of executive experience across Caribbean and Latin American markets. His most recent position was as Strategic Advisor at ATN International, the parent company of One Communications, following his tenure as CEO of Digicel Trinidad and Tobago which concluded in July 2025.

    The appointment follows the departure of Richard Stanton, who held the CEO position for less than one year. Company Chairman Brad Martin emphasized the critical timing of this leadership change, noting Guyana’s ongoing dynamic economic expansion requires robust telecommunications infrastructure.

    “Abraham recognizes the profound responsibility that comes with leading telecommunications during a nation’s transformative growth period,” Martin stated. “His proven leadership, cultural understanding, and commitment to balancing commercial objectives with community value make him ideally suited to reinforce One Communications’ role as a developmental partner to Guyana.”

    Smith’s mandate focuses on three primary objectives: enhancing customer experience for both commercial and residential clients, strengthening network resilience, and expanding enterprise partnerships throughout the region.

  • From ‘choking’ to champions: Babonneau’s cricketing transformation

    From ‘choking’ to champions: Babonneau’s cricketing transformation

    The cricketing landscape of Babonneau has undergone a remarkable transformation, achieving unprecedented success in the 2025 season. The men’s squad emerged as Prime Minister’s Cup champions and reached the semifinals of the Premier Two-Day Cup, a significant improvement from their group stage exits the previous year. Simultaneously, the Under-13 team made history by advancing to the finals of the inaugural youth cricket championship.

    Central to this athletic renaissance is Head Coach Jervaughn Charles, an educator who identified psychological barriers as the primary obstacle to success. “Inconsistent performance has historically plagued our teams,” Charles revealed in an exclusive interview with St. Lucia Times. “We frequently faltered during critical moments. For 2025, we established a clear objective: to compete at the highest level across all formats with unwavering self-belief.”

    The program’s training methodology underwent comprehensive restructuring to overcome environmental challenges. Charles described previous training conditions as “dicey” due to unpredictable weather patterns. Rather than conceding to meteorological limitations, the team intensified their focus during available practice windows, implementing a rigorous five-day weekly regimen complemented by practice matches.

    A groundbreaking innovation emerged with the “Clash of the Leatherbacks” Youth Tournament—a seven-match series featuring three competing teams: Snapping Strikers, Hawksbill Hitters, and Terrapin Thumpers. This skill-based competition awarded points for batting, bowling, and fielding proficiency during group stages, providing invaluable development opportunities for emerging talents.

    “The tournament produced remarkably noticeable improvements in our youth players,” Charles observed. “It enabled precise identification of individual strengths and weaknesses that will inform our 2026 development strategy.”

    This cricketing revolution received crucial support from sponsors including the National Lotteries Authority, Hot Ink Printing, B.T.S.M., Golden Eggs, and former MP Virginia Albert Poyotte. Despite persistent infrastructure challenges common across the island, Babonneau Cricket remains committed to expanding participation across age groups, enhancing facilities, and establishing women’s cricket programs to build upon this year’s extraordinary achievements.

  • Regional youth expert visits Antigua and Barbuda to address gun violence

    Regional youth expert visits Antigua and Barbuda to address gun violence

    Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed Dr. David Muhammad, a distinguished regional youth development specialist from Trinidad and Tobago, for a high-level consultation aimed at curbing the nation’s challenges with gun violence, gang proliferation, and juvenile delinquency. The visit, initiated upon the invitation of local official Khalid Shabazz, centers on deploying proven, evidence-based methodologies to steer young individuals away from criminal pathways.

    Dr. Muhammad’s comprehensive strategy emphasizes a multi-faceted approach, prioritizing early intervention programs, structured mentorship initiatives, educational reform, and empowering community-driven solutions. His expertise is sought to help build resilient support systems that address the root causes of youth crime rather than merely its symptoms.

    During his official stay, Dr. Muhammad is scheduled for high-level discussions with the nation’s Prime Minister and the Minister of Education. The itinerary also potentially includes direct engagements with students and faculty at local schools, aiming to ground his policy recommendations in firsthand community insights. Government representatives have indicated that a detailed schedule of his public appearances and activities will be disclosed as the visit progresses, ensuring transparency and community involvement in this critical endeavor.

  • U.S. plans takeover of Venezuelan tanker

    U.S. plans takeover of Venezuelan tanker

    The United States has initiated a high-stakes maritime operation to intercept and seize the oil tanker Marinera, currently navigating the Atlantic Ocean under pursuit by American forces. Official sources confirm the vessel is suspected of having direct ties to Venezuela’s government, prompting this aggressive enforcement action.

    This operation represents the culmination of a sustained campaign against the sanctioned vessel, which has been under U.S. Treasury Department restrictions. The pursuit, ongoing since last month, forms part of a comprehensive strategy concerning the potential detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, though officials remain guarded about specific operational details.

    The geopolitical dimensions of the situation intensified significantly with revelations that Russia has deployed substantial naval assets to accompany the tanker. Multiple warships, including at least one submarine, have been tracking alongside the Marinera, creating a complex international standoff in international waters.

    Maritime security experts indicate this confrontation represents one of the most significant overt naval confrontations between nuclear powers in recent Atlantic history. The operation underscores the escalating tensions between global powers using Venezuela as a proxy arena, with energy resources serving as the immediate point of contention.

    The U.S. Navy’s involvement demonstrates Washington’s commitment to enforcing sanctions despite military countermeasures from rival nations. This development occurs amid deteriorating relations between the United States and both Venezuela and Russia, with energy transportation emerging as a new frontline in geopolitical conflicts.

  • Traffic disruptions expected as Royalton resort utility works begin

    Traffic disruptions expected as Royalton resort utility works begin

    Residents and motorists utilizing Highway One through Jamestown should prepare for significant nighttime travel disruptions commencing immediately, as engineers initiate critical underground utility operations for the Royalton Vessence Barbados resort development. The comprehensive project, detailed by Neomie Tavernier of Gillespie and Steel Associates Ltd during a Trents Community Centre briefing, involves constructing a subterranean utility tunnel to connect the resort’s main property to a sewage treatment plant situated on Lot 56, directly across the highway.

    The intricate installation will impact multiple essential services currently traversing the roadway, including water mains, gas pipelines, and fibre optic telecommunications cables. Project planners have implemented a systematic east-to-west construction approach with established detour routes to manage traffic flow. During initial phases, an expanded work zone will temporarily obstruct the primary entrance to Jamestown Park, though single-lane northbound traffic will be maintained with alternative access routes via Lot 56.

    Construction activities are strategically scheduled during overnight hours from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM to minimize daytime congestion, with work commencing Tuesday evening. The project timeline anticipates completion by January 20, with roadways fully reopened during non-working hours. Utility interruptions will occur sequentially: gas services will experience early morning shutdowns on Wednesday, followed by Barbados Water Authority (BWA) interruptions from Sunday evening through Monday at 5:00 AM. Flow telecommunications work involving fibre optic cables is scheduled for the subsequent week, primarily affecting sidewalk areas with minimal road impact.

    Project officials emphasize that advanced notifications will be provided for all scheduled service interruptions, with particular consideration given to minimizing disruptions for local hotels and restaurants. The technical team confirms that all roadways will be fully restored and operational upon project completion.

  • COMMENTARY: A reflection on the life of Simpson Gregoire

    COMMENTARY: A reflection on the life of Simpson Gregoire

    Pinterest has unveiled a transformative artificial intelligence feature designed to make visual discovery more inclusive and personally relevant. The innovative body type ranges technology utilizes advanced computer vision to identify diverse body shapes within fashion and style imagery, enabling users to discover content that better reflects their personal physique.

    The cutting-edge system analyzes over 3.5 billion images across Pinterest’s platform, categorizing body types through sophisticated machine learning algorithms rather than traditional binary filters. This approach allows for more nuanced representation across the full spectrum of human body diversity. Users searching for fashion inspiration can now find results tailored to their specific body characteristics, moving beyond the one-size-fits-all approach that has dominated visual search platforms.

    This technological breakthrough represents Pinterest’s commitment to creating a more inclusive digital environment where everyone can see themselves represented. The feature has been developed in collaboration with experts in body acceptance and AI ethics to ensure respectful and accurate representation. Early testing indicates the technology has significantly improved user engagement and satisfaction, particularly among demographics historically underrepresented in fashion imagery.

    The implementation of body type technology marks a significant advancement in how AI can enhance personalization while promoting body positivity. Pinterest’s approach demonstrates how machine learning can be leveraged to create more authentic and relevant user experiences rather than reinforcing narrow beauty standards. The company continues to refine the technology with plans to expand its application across additional content categories beyond fashion.

  • US begins operation to seize Venezuela-linked oil tanker

    US begins operation to seize Venezuela-linked oil tanker

    The United States has initiated a high-stakes maritime operation to intercept and seize a Venezuelan-linked oil tanker currently traversing the Atlantic Ocean, according to sources familiar with the mission. The vessel, previously identified as the Bella 1, faces US sanctions imposed in 2024 for its involvement in a clandestine network of tankers allegedly transporting illicit petroleum products.

    This development follows a previous unsuccessful interception attempt last month near Venezuelan territorial waters. During that operation, US Coast Guard personnel were prevented from boarding the vessel when it executed an abrupt maneuver and fled the area. The current Atlantic operation represents an escalation in enforcement efforts against what authorities describe as Venezuela’s ‘shadow fleet’ of sanction-evading tankers.

    Multiple US government entities including the Coast Guard and military forces are participating in the ongoing mission, though operational details remain classified. The interagency collaboration underscores the strategic importance Washington places on disrupting Venezuela’s ability to circumvent international sanctions through maritime networks.

    This operation occurs amid heightened tensions between the US and Venezuelan governments regarding energy exports and compliance with international sanctions regimes. Maritime security experts note that intercepting vessels on the high seas presents significant legal and operational challenges that require meticulous planning and execution.

    The developing situation highlights the broader geopolitical struggle over Venezuela’s oil resources and the effectiveness of US-led sanctions intended to pressure the Maduro government. Success or failure of this operation could have implications for future enforcement actions against other vessels operating in similar capacity.

  • Toename griepgevallen: ministerie roept op tot extra waakzaamheid

    Toename griepgevallen: ministerie roept op tot extra waakzaamheid

    Health authorities in Suriname have sounded the alarm over a significant surge in influenza cases across the nation. The Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VW&A) has issued an urgent public health advisory calling for heightened vigilance and strict adherence to preventive measures to curb further viral transmission.

    According to the ministry’s latest assessment, implementing basic yet effective hygiene practices can substantially reduce infection risks. Critical recommendations include frequent handwashing with soap and water, utilizing alcohol-based sanitizers, practicing respiratory etiquette by coughing or sneezing into elbows, and proper disposal of used tissues. The advisory also emphasizes avoiding close contact with individuals displaying flu-like symptoms.

    Citizens experiencing influenza symptoms are urged to remain home and wear face masks when public interaction is unavoidable. The ministry further underscores the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle practices—adequate rest, balanced nutrition, proper hydration, and regular physical activity—to bolster immune defenses.

    For those already affected, health officials recommend sufficient rest and increased fluid intake including water, tea, and soup. While paracetamol may alleviate fever and pain, aspirin is strongly discouraged for pediatric cases. Maintaining hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette remains crucial even during illness to prevent community spread.

    The ministry specifically advises immediate medical consultation when fever persists beyond three days, respiratory difficulties emerge, severe chest pain develops, or symptoms suddenly worsen. Elderly populations and individuals with chronic health conditions require particular vigilance due to elevated complication risks.

    Emphasizing collective responsibility, the Health Ministry asserts that proactive compliance with preventive measures can significantly mitigate influenza’s societal impact and better protect vulnerable demographic groups during this ongoing outbreak.

  • Guyana, US in talks about accepting nationals from third countries

    Guyana, US in talks about accepting nationals from third countries

    Guyana is currently engaged in substantive negotiations with the United States regarding the potential acceptance of third-country nationals from US territory, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud confirmed on Monday. The discussions form part of a broader US initiative seeking cooperation from Caribbean nations to alleviate migration pressures.

    Persaud characterized the talks as ‘productive,’ emphasizing that any potential framework would align with Guyana’s national priorities while supporting US objectives. This development follows similar agreements recently confirmed by two Eastern Caribbean nations—Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica—both of which have committed to accepting limited numbers of screened individuals.

    The US State Department reportedly extended this proposal to numerous friendly nations worldwide in early 2025, seeking partners to share the burden of processing migrants who cannot be returned to their countries of origin. Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit confirmed his government’s agreement with the US, noting that stringent security safeguards had been incorporated to prevent accepting individuals who might compromise national security.

    Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne indicated his nation would accept a maximum of ten non-criminal refugees possessing skills in local demand. The arrangement maintains full discretionary power for the Caribbean nations to accept or reject any recommended individuals. The US has committed to providing comprehensive biometric data and criminal background information for all potential transferees.

    Several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states have reportedly signed similar agreements, reflecting a coordinated regional approach to the US initiative. The negotiations represent a significant development in US-Caribbean diplomatic relations and international migration management.