Carib Scope

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  • Major drive to form chess clubs in schools

    Major drive to form chess clubs in schools

    In an unprecedented educational initiative, Grenada is poised to distribute more than 400 professional-grade chess sets valued at EC$30,000 to primary and secondary schools across the nation. This ambitious project marks the centerpiece of the inaugural Chess Week scheduled for March 2026, potentially establishing the first event of its kind in both the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the broader Caribbean region.

    The Grenada Chess Federation (GCF), organizer of the landmark event, has confirmed that Chess Week 2026 will run from March 2-7, culminating with the Independence Chess Tournament finals. Federation members will conduct parish-by-parish visits to educational institutions, delivering the specialized tournament equipment while introducing fundamental chess principles and facilitating the establishment of school chess clubs.

    Strategic priority will be given to secondary schools during the initial phase, aligning with GCF’s objective to launch the first Inter-Secondary School Chess Tournament by late 2026. Each participating institution will receive a minimum of five chess sets and identify at least ten students to form club nuclei, with additional sets to be provided as membership expands. Critical to the program’s sustainability is the designation of at least one teacher per school to oversee club operations and subsequent online training initiatives.

    The comprehensive national rollout ensures complete geographic coverage, including the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Any schools not reached during the designated week will be visited by the end of March 2026, according to federation representatives.

    This groundbreaking educational endeavor enjoys full support from Grenada’s Ministry of Education and the National Sports Council (NSC), which plans to incorporate chess into its inaugural National Games parish competitions by 2027. The GCF leveraged its affiliations with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA) to procure the professional tournament equipment necessary for the nationwide initiative.

    Research consistently demonstrates chess’s cognitive benefits, including enhanced memory capacity, prolonged attention spans, improved problem-solving capabilities, strengthened critical thinking skills, and increased disciplinary focus among young participants.

  • New ambassador for Egypt received by Dominican president this week

    New ambassador for Egypt received by Dominican president this week

    In a significant diplomatic engagement this week, Dominica’s President Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton formally received the newly appointed Egyptian Ambassador His Excellency Sherif Reda Ahmed Shehata, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations between the two nations.

    The ceremony highlighted the shared commitment to addressing pressing global issues, with President Burton emphasizing the interconnected nature of contemporary challenges. “Our world faces multifaceted crises ranging from climate emergencies and food insecurity to economic volatility and public health threats,” President Burton stated. “These transnational problems demand collective action and solidarity beyond national boundaries.”

    President Burton specifically acknowledged Egypt’s influential role in climate diplomacy, particularly its hosting of the COP27 summit which advanced critical discussions on adaptation strategies, mitigation measures, and climate financing mechanisms. “As a small island developing state, Dominica experiences disproportionate vulnerability to climate impacts,” she noted. “We recognize Egypt’s leadership in fostering global dialogue on environmental resilience.”

    The Dominican leader identified several promising areas for expanded cooperation, including renewable energy development, sustainable agricultural practices, disaster preparedness, and environmental conservation. She also expressed interest in learning from Egypt’s extensive experience in water resource management and cultural heritage preservation.

    Ambassador Shehata reaffirmed the strong foundation of Egypt-Dominica relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 2010. “Despite geographical separation, our nations are united by common principles and mutual respect,” he declared. “We have built a relationship anchored in trust, peaceful coexistence, and shared development objectives.”

    The ambassador emphasized both countries’ dedication to international law, conflict resolution through dialogue, and advocacy for Global South interests within multilateral institutions. He outlined ambitious plans to enhance bilateral cooperation across trade, education, tourism, and cultural exchange, promising to “explore new collaborative pathways that deliver tangible benefits for both nations.”

  • VIDEO: Lowmans Hill woman turns 10

    VIDEO: Lowmans Hill woman turns 10

    The community of Lowmans Hill, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, witnessed a remarkable celebration of life on February 7, 2026, as resident Hilda Charles reached the extraordinary milestone of her 100th birthday. The esteemed centenarian was honored with a formal toast by His Excellency Governor General Sir Stanley “Stalky” John, KC, in a ceremony that highlighted her significance to the nation.

    The celebratory event brought together distinguished guests including Mrs. Charles’s Member of Parliament, Daniel Cummings, alongside a gathering of cherished relatives and lifelong friends. The gathering served as a testament to Mrs. Charles’s profound impact on her community throughout her century of life.

    This milestone birthday transcends personal achievement, representing a living chronicle of Saint Vincent’s history and societal evolution across ten decades. Official recognition from the highest levels of Vincentian leadership underscores the cultural importance placed on honoring elders and preserving intergenerational connections within the nation’s social fabric. The celebration stands as a powerful affirmation of life, community spirit, and the valued contributions of senior citizens to the Caribbean society.

  • National Clean-Up Heads to Cooks Extension, Denfields, Bendals and St. Thomas

    National Clean-Up Heads to Cooks Extension, Denfields, Bendals and St. Thomas

    The Antiguan government has expanded its National Clean-Up campaign to four additional communities this Thursday as part of its ongoing island-wide sanitation initiative. Clean-up crews are actively operating in Cooks Extension, Denfields, Bendals, and St. Thomas on February 26th, responding to the government’s call for enhanced civic participation under the program’s unifying theme “Love Where You Live.

    Residents within these designated zones are being urged to position large household items and bulk waste materials along roadside areas for efficient collection by sanitation teams. This systematic approach facilitates streamlined operations and ensures comprehensive waste removal from participating neighborhoods.

    The National Clean-Up campaign represents a strategic component of the government’s broader environmental management agenda, targeting improved community sanitation standards, combating illegal dumping practices, and fostering heightened civic responsibility throughout Antigua and Barbuda. Government officials have consistently emphasized the critical role of resident involvement in achieving sustainable neighborhood cleanliness.

    This initiative reflects growing concerns about public health implications of improper waste disposal and represents a coordinated response to environmental challenges. The government’s persistent communications campaign underscores the connection between community participation and long-term sanitation success, positioning the clean-up drive as both a practical response and symbolic movement toward national pride.

  • Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion

    Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion

    Liberty Caribbean, the parent company of telecommunications brands Flow, Liberty Business, and BTC, has reinforced its commitment to regional digital development as the Gold-Level Partner for the recent Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF). The two-day conference, organized under the theme ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ convened over 140 participants to address critical digital policy challenges.

    Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager of Flow Trinidad, emphasized the strategic importance of such dialogues: ‘Our partnership with TTIGF reflects our dedication to shaping digital policies that serve multiple stakeholders. In an era of unprecedented technological acceleration, we must ensure innovation acts as a unifying force rather than a fragmenting one. This theme directly aligns with our daily mission: constructing networks that prioritize not just speed and reliability, but also security, inclusivity, and future readiness.’

    The forum served as a crucial platform for examining the Caribbean’s persistent digital divide, identified as a fundamental barrier to equitable economic growth. Limited broadband penetration continues to restrict access to educational resources, entrepreneurial opportunities, and essential services across the region.

    Liberty Caribbean is addressing these challenges through both corporate initiatives and its charitable foundation. Programs like the JUMP Programme are specifically designed to expand technology access, provide affordable connectivity solutions, and deliver digital literacy training. These efforts aim to empower individuals and communities to participate actively in the evolving digital economy.

    Conference sessions explored multifaceted topics including critical infrastructure security, artificial intelligence integration strategies, cyber resilience frameworks, and the psychological impact of digital transformation on mental health and well-being. The gathering brought together thought leaders, policy makers, technology experts, researchers, and community representatives to collaboratively develop strategies for sustainable technological advancement that maintains ethical standards and long-term stability.

  • Grenada Building & Loan Association vacancy: Director

    Grenada Building & Loan Association vacancy: Director

    The Grenada Building & Loan Association has announced a significant opportunity for seasoned professionals to join its governing board as Director. This prestigious role calls for an individual of high principle and extensive experience to help steer the financial institution’s strategic course and ensure its continued prosperity.

    The successful applicant will be tasked with collaborating closely with both fellow directors and executive leadership to maintain the association’s commitment to its membership base while adhering to all regulatory and statutory mandates. Central to the position is the responsibility to actively participate in formulating and monitoring corporate strategy, offering expert guidance, and exercising independent judgment.

    Prospective candidates must demonstrate proven leadership capabilities at senior or board levels, preferably within the financial services sector or similarly regulated environments. Essential qualifications include comprehensive knowledge of corporate governance protocols, risk management systems, and regulatory compliance frameworks. The role demands exceptional integrity, professional independence, and sophisticated commercial insight.

    The Director will oversee critical areas including financial performance metrics, capital adequacy assessments, and compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards alongside the Society’s Ordinance. Furthermore, the position requires upholding the association’s core values and ethical standards while maintaining focus on member interests.

    Interested parties who are current members of the association must submit their curriculum vitae and a detailed cover letter demonstrating their suitability for this governance role. Applications should be directed to The Chairman at the Grenada Building & Loan Association’s Church Street headquarters in St. George’s or via email to the provided address. The application deadline is set for March 31, 2026.

  • Grenada secures major financing for battery energy storage project

    Grenada secures major financing for battery energy storage project

    The Grenadian government has obtained substantial international financing totaling $8.7 million to deploy a transformative Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), marking a significant advancement in the nation’s sustainable energy infrastructure. Through its Ministry of Finance, the Caribbean nation will receive this support comprising a $5.7 million loan alongside $3 million in grants.

    This financial package, facilitated through the Caribbean Development Bank’s Special Funds Resources, features collaborative contributions from global partners including the Government of Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These funds fall under broader regional initiatives promoting sustainable energy development across the Caribbean region.

    The pioneering BESS project represents a strategic infrastructure investment designed to revolutionize Grenada’s power grid. Implementation will enhance electrical reliability, facilitate greater integration of renewable energy sources, and substantially strengthen national resilience against climate-induced disruptions to energy supply.

    Mike Sylvester, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, endorsed the project approval, emphasizing its alignment with governmental priorities. “This initiative constitutes a monumental investment in Grenada’s energy future,” Sylvester stated. “It will reinforce grid stability, accelerate renewable energy expansion, and propel our national commitment toward establishing a resilient, sustainable economy.”

    The Ministry of Finance is currently finalizing the requisite Loan and Grant Agreements to ensure prompt project execution. Government officials expressed gratitude to international partners for their support in modernizing climate-responsive infrastructure, advancing clean energy adoption, and fostering sustainable national development.

  • Police appeal to parents as clueless students join ‘6ixx’, ‘7even’ gangs

    Police appeal to parents as clueless students join ‘6ixx’, ‘7even’ gangs

    St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ top law enforcement official has issued an urgent plea to parents regarding the alarming proliferation of transnational criminal gangs within the nation’s educational institutions. Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey, the country’s chief crime-fighter, revealed that rival factions known as ‘6ixx’ and ‘7even’—originating from Trinidadian super gangs—have established deep roots in secondary schools, recruiting students unaware of the groups’ violent histories.

    During an appearance on the New Democratic Party’s ‘New Times’ radio program, Commissioner Bailey characterized the situation as a ‘growing problem’ that remains ‘rampant in our schools.’ He disclosed startling statistics from school administrators, including one principal who reported 20-25% of students failing to return after lunch periods.

    The senior law enforcement official emphasized that parental engagement represents the first line of defense. He recommended unexpected school visits and closer monitoring of children’s associations and digital activities. ‘Parents have to know where their children are at all times,’ Bailey stressed, noting that parenting transcends mere provision of basic needs and requires meaningful dialogue to prevent external negative influences.

    Bailey shared disturbing anecdotes from his school visits, including one incident where a student openly rolled and smoked marijuana during class. At West St. George Secondary School, he encountered students enthusiastically identifying with gang affiliations while demonstrating complete ignorance about the groups’ origins or benefits. One female student admitted she knew of no advantages to gang membership yet still participated.

    These gangs trace their origins to Trinidad’s ‘The Muslims’ and ‘Rasta City’ organizations—highly structured criminal enterprises with international militant connections. The Jamaat al Muslimeen, affiliated with The Muslims, attempted a violent coup in Trinidad in 1990 that resulted in 24 fatalities.

    Bailey concluded that addressing this crisis requires collective action beyond law enforcement, involving churches, community groups, and national institutions to eradicate gang influence from educational environments.

  • Rotary, Rotaract advance national dialogue on preventing childhood obesity

    Rotary, Rotaract advance national dialogue on preventing childhood obesity

    In a significant collaborative effort, Rotary and Rotaract organizations throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines convened a high-level dinner meeting this month to formulate strategic approaches against childhood obesity. The gathering assembled club presidents, Rotarians, and distinguished government officials to align community service initiatives with national health priorities.

    The event featured pivotal attendees including Health Minister Daniel Cummings, Deputy Chief Education Officer Joycelyn Blake-Browne, Chief Health Promotion Officer Shanika John-Trent, and Senior Nutritionist Alicia Ferdinand. Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to cross-sector partnerships addressing pediatric health challenges.

    Presidents Felicia Cumberbatch (Rotary Club of St. Vincent), Kim Haydock (Rotary Club of St. Vincent South), and Angelina Questelles (Rotaract Club of Kingstown) jointly hosted the engagement under the leadership of Assistant Governor Janelle Allen. This coordination supports Rotary District 7030’s multi-year “Rotary Moves” campaign targeting childhood obesity prevention through 2026.

    Discussions centered on the advocacy dimension of the campaign, exploring practical interventions, policy adjustments, and legislative measures to shield children’s wellbeing and encourage sustainable healthy habits. Minister Cummings, himself a former Rotary Club president, reiterated his ministry’s dedication to developing implementable programs with Rotary organizations that foster lasting lifestyle improvements among youth.

    A official statement emphasized the shared recognition of obesity’s profound societal implications, noting: “Rotary and Rotaract clubs in St. Vincent and the Grenadines remain committed to collaboration, advocacy, and partnership in safeguarding the nation’s future.”

  • Wetsvoorstel moet belangenverstrengeling bij staatsbedrijven voorkomen

    Wetsvoorstel moet belangenverstrengeling bij staatsbedrijven voorkomen

    In a significant move to combat systemic corruption, National Democratic Party (NDP) assembly members Silvana Afonsoewa and Rossellie Cotino have introduced groundbreaking legislation titled the ‘Law on Incompatibility of Functions in State Companies and Government Institutions’. This proposed statute represents one of the most comprehensive anti-corruption measures in recent parliamentary history.

    The legislation establishes an absolute prohibition against public officials within state-owned enterprises and government institutions from simultaneously holding paid positions, consultancy contracts, or advisory roles in other public entities. The ban extends to all legal constructions, effectively closing loopholes that might allow indirect financial benefits through corporate vehicles or third-party arrangements.

    Enforcement mechanisms under the proposal are notably stringent. Violations trigger mandatory and cumulative sanctions including immediate contract termination, full restitution of improperly received compensation, and dismissal from all conflicting positions. The law explicitly eliminates any possibility of discretionary exceptions or negotiated settlements.

    Existing arrangements are granted a transitional period not exceeding two years, during which affected individuals must either terminate their additional contracts or resign from one of their positions. Following this grace period, no continuation of incompatible functions will be permitted under any circumstances.

    The legislative initiative targets multiple governance objectives: preventing actual and perceived conflicts of interest, safeguarding the independence and integrity of public officials, eliminating the accumulation of public incomes, promoting transparency in the allocation of state resources, and ultimately restoring public trust in governmental institutions.

    The proposal emphasizes that state companies and government institutions manage public funds and execute public duties, thus requiring officials to exercise their functions with uncompromised independence. Contrary to potential criticisms, the legislation is projected to have no adverse financial impact on the State. Instead, it is expected to contribute to more efficient public spending and enhanced integrity within the governance framework.