Carib Scope

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  • Ambassador: Claim of Reduced U.S. Visa Validity for Antiguans Is False

    Ambassador: Claim of Reduced U.S. Visa Validity for Antiguans Is False

    The Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, has formally refuted as entirely inaccurate a recent media report claiming reduced validity periods for U.S. visas issued to citizens of Antigua and Barbuda. The controversial assertion originated in a Virgin Islands Consortium article published Thursday, which alleged that the U.S. State Department had updated its reciprocity schedules to limit visa validity to merely three months for passport holders from both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica.

    Sir Ronald categorically dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the online publication’s information was fundamentally flawed. While addressing these false allegations, the ambassador confirmed that separate, legitimate visa discussions with U.S. authorities remain ongoing. These talks concern previously announced visa restrictions from Washington in late 2023, coupled with a subsequent suspension in processing immigrant visas (green cards) that impacts citizens from 75 countries worldwide.

    The ambassador’s clarification comes amid heightened sensitivity regarding international travel protocols and bilateral relations between Caribbean nations and the United States. Diplomatic channels remain actively engaged in resolving the genuine visa processing matters, though the specific allegations of reduced visa validity have been definitively characterized as misinformation.

  • Agrofest 2026 “good to go” as schools greenhouse project launched

    Agrofest 2026 “good to go” as schools greenhouse project launched

    Barbados has officially commenced preparations for its premier agricultural event, Agrofest 2026, with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting at Queen’s Park on Friday. The event marks the beginning of organizing efforts for the 21st edition of the nation’s annual agricultural exhibition.

    Henderson Williams, President of the Barbados Agricultural Society, confirmed that planning is progressing smoothly, stating that all participating stakeholders are fully prepared to deliver what he characterized as another impressive demonstration of the island’s agricultural capabilities. Williams expressed confidence in the event’s successful execution following the official launch ceremony.

    Concurrently, Minister of Agriculture Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight unveiled a significant educational initiative designed to increase youth participation in agricultural sectors. The program will involve distributing thirteen specialized greenhouse structures to selected educational institutions across Barbados.

    According to Minister Munro-Knight, these controlled-environment agricultural systems will enable students to cultivate designated crops while gaining hands-on experience with contemporary farming methodologies. The initiative serves dual purposes: providing practical agricultural education and supporting national objectives to strengthen domestic food security and production capabilities. The greenhouse program represents a strategic investment in developing Barbados’s next generation of agricultural professionals while addressing broader food sustainability challenges.

  • Mauritius president receives Cuban Ambassador’s credentials

    Mauritius president receives Cuban Ambassador’s credentials

    In a significant diplomatic exchange, Mauritian President Prithvirajsing Roopun, through a formal statement by an official representative, has reaffirmed his nation’s steadfast solidarity with Cuba amidst ongoing international pressures. The communication, delivered during an official ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries, centered on the recent escalation of the United States’ long-standing embargo.

    The discussion highlighted concerns over an executive order issued by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which aimed to intensify the six-decade-old economic, commercial, and financial blockade. A key alarming facet of this order involved strategies to disrupt and block Cuba’s critical fuel supply chains, exacerbating the nation’s economic challenges.

    Ambassador Pérez Mesa, representing Cuba, expressed profound confidence that the government of Port Louis would align with the broader international community in formally condemning these measures. The condemnation is rooted in the perspective that such unilateral sanctions constitute a clear violation of established International Law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. The ambassador emphasized that these actions set a concerning precedent, posing a direct threat to the sovereignty of nations worldwide.

    Beyond addressing these critical geopolitical issues, the meeting served as a platform to explore future collaboration. Both parties engaged in constructive dialogues to identify new potential areas of cooperation and to develop joint initiatives. This forward-looking conversation underscored a mutual and strong desire to further strengthen and deepen the diplomatic and economic ties between Mauritius and Cuba, using the milestone of their five-decade-long relationship as a springboard for enhanced future engagement.

  • CELOS identificeert oorzaak cassaveziekte: schimmel bedreigt voedselteelt

    CELOS identificeert oorzaak cassaveziekte: schimmel bedreigt voedselteelt

    The Center for Agricultural Research in Suriname (CELOS) has conclusively identified the causative agent behind the cassava disease that has been affecting agricultural regions since late 2025. Through comprehensive laboratory analysis, researchers have confirmed that the pathogen responsible is the fungus Ceratobasidium theobromae, internationally associated with Cassava Witches’ Broom Disease (CWBD).

    This plant disease severely impacts cassava crops, leading to significant growth retardation and substantial yield losses. Symptoms observed since November last year include broom-like branching patterns, deformed shoots, and noticeable plant stunting across multiple cassava fields.

    The scientific confirmation came through molecular laboratory testing directed by biologist Krishna Gopie, utilizing field samples collected by CELOS scientist Rudi Nelom in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (LVV) and Regional Development (RO). DNA analysis successfully detected genetic material from the fungal pathogen, with tests conducted using international reference materials and control samples to ensure result reliability.

    This breakthrough is considered critical for Suriname’s agricultural sector, where cassava serves as both a staple food source and primary income generator for farmers. Accurate diagnosis enables targeted monitoring and control measures while helping prevent further spread through contaminated planting materials.

    CELOS emphasizes that this discovery underscores the vital importance of local scientific research in protecting national agricultural interests. The institute will collaborate with LVV and RO to conduct follow-up studies on disease distribution and potential impacts. Additionally, educational programs will be implemented to inform farmers about symptom recognition and responsible use of planting materials.

    CELOS Director Jairam has urged cassava growers to remain vigilant for signs including excessive branching, abnormal shoot development, and growth retardation. Suspicious plants can be reported to the Plant Pathology Department for further investigation. The research center stresses that close cooperation between scientists and agricultural producers is essential to minimize further damage to cassava cultivation and protect food security.

  • Antigua News Hit With US$27 Million Lawsuit in Cross-Border Defamation Case Filed by Boris Latour

    Antigua News Hit With US$27 Million Lawsuit in Cross-Border Defamation Case Filed by Boris Latour

    A significant cross-border legal confrontation has emerged between Caribbean media and European business interests. Boris Latour, a French entrepreneur, has initiated a high-stakes defamation lawsuit against Antigua News, seeking damages totaling US$27 million. The litigation alleges that the news organization published materially false and damaging statements concerning Mr. Latour’s international business operations and personal reputation.

    The legal filing, submitted in a jurisdiction with established press freedom principles, contends that the published content extended beyond fair commentary into the realm of knowingly false assertion. This case immediately raises complex questions regarding jurisdictional reach in the digital age, where online publications can be accessed globally. Legal experts are closely monitoring how courts will navigate the conflict between protecting reputation across borders and safeguarding media freedoms within national contexts.

    The substantial financial claim represents one of the largest defamation actions brought against a Caribbean media entity by a foreign plaintiff. This lawsuit could establish a formidable precedent for how small nations’ press outlets are treated in international legal disputes, potentially creating a chilling effect on investigative reporting concerning wealthy international figures. The outcome may influence how media organizations verify stories involving foreign subjects and assess their potential liability in global jurisdictions.

    Both parties are preparing for a protracted legal battle that will likely address fundamental issues of digital media responsibility, the definition of malice in international contexts, and the balance between free speech protections and reputation rights across different legal systems. The case highlights the evolving challenges of maintaining journalistic standards while navigating the complex web of international libel laws.

  • Charlemagne House storm to glory at Fond St Jacques

    Charlemagne House storm to glory at Fond St Jacques

    In a stunning display of athletic prowess and determination, Charlemagne House (Yellow) emerged victorious with 1,030 points at the Fond St Jacques Primary School sports meet, held at the Soufrière Mini Stadium on February 20. The championship battle saw intense competition as Hippolyte House (Blue) secured second place with 1,002 points, while Alcindor House (Red) claimed third with 989 points.

    The path to victory required extraordinary effort from Charlemagne House, which faced a significant 31-point deficit against Hippolyte in the pre-track standings. Through exceptional team performance and strategic scoring in track events, Charlemagne executed a remarkable comeback to seize the championship title.

    Individual excellence shone throughout the competition, with several athletes achieving top honors as Victors and Victrices Ludorum across multiple age categories:

    – U7 Victrix Jayda Pascal (Alcindor) demonstrated exceptional skill with 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal
    – U7 Victor Mavrick Daniel (Hippolyte) dominated his category with 2 Gold medals
    – Alcindor House showcased particular strength in middle categories with U9 Victrix Gabrielle Augustin (2 Golds) and U9 Victor Blake Alexander (2 Golds)
    – U11 competitors Shadia Arunel (Alcindor) and Vernanly Amedee (Alcindor) both achieved perfect 2 Gold medal performances
    – The senior categories featured outstanding performances from U13 Victrix Merabel Mon Louis (Charlemagne) with 3 Golds and 1 Silver, and U13 Victor Janik Prospere (Hippolyte) with 3 Gold medals

    The event highlighted not only individual athletic excellence but also the spirit of sportsmanship and team competition that defines primary school sports in the region.

  • Flow Continues Its Support for the Gender-Based Violence Walk 2026

    Flow Continues Its Support for the Gender-Based Violence Walk 2026

    Telecommunications provider Flow has demonstrated its continued commitment to social causes by serving as a key sponsor for the upcoming Gender-Based Violence Walk 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. The company’s support was formally cemented through a financial contribution presented during a recent ceremony.

    Kasmin Bailey, Team Leader for Retail Sales & Recharge at Flow, personally presented a sponsorship cheque totaling $1,500 to Kieron Murdoch, who accepted the donation as representative of the Integrated Health Outreach Gender-Based Violence Coalition (IHO-GBV). This contribution forms part of Flow’s comprehensive sponsorship package for the awareness event.

    The partnership between Flow and IHO-GBV underscores a shared dedication to addressing gender-based violence through multiple approaches. Both organizations emphasize the critical importance of education initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and community-driven actions that challenge harmful societal norms and behaviors.

    Through this collaboration, Flow aims to amplify efforts toward creating safer environments across Antigua and Barbuda. The company’s involvement reflects its corporate social responsibility strategy that prioritizes community welfare and social development alongside business operations.

    The Gender-Based Violence Walk 2026 represents a significant platform for raising public consciousness about violence prevention and support systems for affected individuals. Flow’s sponsorship will help facilitate broader participation and greater impact for this important community initiative.

  • Octavia Nicholas launches spoken word series to highlight emotional abuse ahead of International Women’s Day

    Octavia Nicholas launches spoken word series to highlight emotional abuse ahead of International Women’s Day

    A powerful new artistic initiative is bringing heightened visibility to the subtle yet devastating realities of emotional and psychological abuse. Creator Octavia Nicholas, in partnership with the national Gender Affairs Division, has unveiled an eight-part spoken word series designed to educate the public on these often-overlooked facets of domestic violence.

    Inspired by Nicholas’s own literary work, ‘Surviving a Narcissist,’ the project strategically coincides with the global observance of International Women’s Day on March 8th. The series employs a compelling fusion of spoken word poetry and expressive dance to articulate the hidden trauma of non-physical abuse, which frequently manifests through control and manipulation long before any physical altercation occurs.

    Nicholas emphasized the profound intent behind the project, stating, ‘This project is more than poetry — it is purpose.’ She elaborated that the collection is a resonant tapestry of survival, healing, and ultimate empowerment, drawing from both her personal journey and the testimonies shared within her book.

    The public is actively encouraged to engage with the daily releases by following the online platforms of both Octavia Nicholas and the Gender Affairs Division. The initiative calls for widespread viewing and sharing to maximize its educational impact and foster a broader community dialogue on identifying and combating all forms of coercive control.

  • Sulphur Springs claim Les Etangs sports crown

    Sulphur Springs claim Les Etangs sports crown

    Sulphur Springs House (Yellow) emerged victorious at the Les Etangs Combined sports meet after an intense competition, securing the championship with a final tally of 1,115 points. The Yellow team faced formidable challenges from rivals Piton House (Green), who finished a close second with 1,045 points, while NSD Ravineau House (Blue) completed the podium with 946 points.

    The path to victory required remarkable consistency and determination from Sulphur Springs athletes. Entering the track events with a preliminary lead of 626 points, the Yellow team maintained their advantage despite a strong surge from Piton House, who narrowed the gap significantly during the track competitions with 561 points. Ravineau House remained in contention throughout with 531 pre-track points.

    Individual excellence highlighted the competition with several standout performers across age categories:

    In the Under-7 division, Lily George of Sulphur Springs earned the Victrix Ludorum title with two gold medals, while Kimani St Luce of Piton House claimed the Victor Ludorum honors with dual gold medals.

    The Under-9 category saw Mackalah Medard and Amelia Calixte demonstrating exceptional talent, with Calixte contributing significantly to Ravineau’s efforts with one gold medal. Etahj Alexander of Piton House dominated the boys’ division with two gold medals.

    Tahjma Nestor from the winning Sulphur Springs team excelled in the Under-11 girls’ category, capturing two gold medals and one silver. Elijah Alexander of Piton House achieved an impressive triple gold medal performance in the boys’ division.

    The Under-13 competitions featured Nahla Augustin of Ravineau House earning two golds and one silver in the girls’ category, while Emerson Lansiquot of Sulphur Springs completed a perfect hat-trick with three gold medals for the champions.

  • PM Mottley rejects claim that Trinidadian had been “kidnapped” in Barbados

    PM Mottley rejects claim that Trinidadian had been “kidnapped” in Barbados

    A significant diplomatic dispute has emerged between Caribbean leaders regarding the 2022 apprehension of a Trinidadian national in Barbados. At the CARICOM summit opening in St. Kitts, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar characterized the incident as a “kidnapping” operation allegedly coordinated by the previous Trinidad government using Regional Security System resources.

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley vehemently rejected these allegations through the state-owned CBC TV, denouncing the characterization as “a scurrilous lie and defamatory in the extreme.” Mottley clarified that Trinidadian police had presented proper arrest warrants to Barbadian authorities, following decades-long regional practices for cross-border apprehensions.

    The incident involved Brent Thomas, who was detained at a Barbados hotel and transported to Trinidad without formal extradition proceedings. While a Trinidad High Court later ruled the operation an “unlawful abduction,” Mottley emphasized that her government had no prior knowledge of the operational details until it became publicly controversial.

    Both leaders acknowledged the need for procedural reforms. Mottley highlighted ongoing efforts to implement the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty, which requires domestic legislation in each member state to become legally enforceable. Currently, only Guyana, Saint Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda have enacted the necessary laws, while Trinidad and Tobago has ratified but not yet implemented the treaty.

    Despite the strong language, Persad-Bissessar subsequently indicated she took no offense at Mottley’s response, noting that the Barbadian leader had simply reiterated her government’s previously stated position regarding the Thomas case.