Carib Scope

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  • Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts St Lucia

    Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts St Lucia

    A significant seismic event measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale occurred near the eastern Caribbean nation of St. Lucia on Friday evening, according to regional monitoring authorities. The tremor, which struck at precisely 5:48 PM local time, originated at a substantial depth of 30 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.

    The Trinidad-based Seismic Research Centre (SRC) at the University of the West Indies confirmed the earthquake’s epicenter was positioned in proximity to multiple Caribbean territories. Residents across the region reported feeling the quake, including those in Fort-de-France, Martinique (65 kilometers northeast of the epicenter), Roseau, Dominica (87 kilometers southeast), and Castries, St. Lucia (114 kilometers north-northeast).

    This seismic activity follows a pattern of tremors observed across the Caribbean region during the initial days of the new year. The SRC had previously documented three separate earthquakes affecting various Caribbean territories earlier on Friday, though none resulted in structural damage or casualties. Seismologists continue to monitor the region’s activity closely, noting that the Caribbean’s complex tectonic environment makes it prone to such events.

    Emergency management officials across affected islands have confirmed no immediate reports of infrastructure damage, injuries, or tsunami alerts following the substantial tremor. The event serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the importance of robust disaster preparedness systems.

  • STEAM gifts for children in the west

    STEAM gifts for children in the west

    In a significant educational outreach effort, Jamaican authorities have distributed approximately 1,400 STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) educational kits to children across hurricane-impacted regions of Montego Bay, Negril, and Black River. The initiative, spearheaded by Minister Andrew Wheatley from the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Science, Technology and Special Projects, represents a strategic shift from traditional Christmas gift-giving toward substantive educational support.

    The distribution occurred during the inaugural Black River Fireworks Festival’s Kiddies Treat segment on December 31, an event specifically designed to boost community morale following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. Minister Wheatley emphasized that these carefully selected gifts—including science kits, biological kits, Lego sets, and chess boards—aim to stimulate cognitive development, creativity, and problem-solving skills among children aged 0-13.

    This comprehensive program operates through a collaboration between three key institutions: the International Commission on Science and Technology, the Scientific Research Council, and the National Foundation for Scientific Development. The minister highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by communities, noting that numerous schools sustained damage and many families remain displaced following the hurricane’s impact.

    The Black River Fireworks Festival itself, themed ‘Life, Love and Recovery,’ provided a family-oriented celebration to welcome the new year while addressing the psychological and educational needs of affected children. This initiative represents a dual approach to post-disaster recovery, combining immediate festive enjoyment with long-term investment in Jamaica’s future technological and scientific capabilities through youth engagement.

  • Errol Wizdom set to release Reggae Dancehall album

    Errol Wizdom set to release Reggae Dancehall album

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant homecoming for the diaspora music community, Pittsburgh-based reggae artist Errol Wizdom has journeyed back to Jamaica’s capital to capture the authentic sound that defines his latest album, ‘Reggae Dancehall’. This strategic creative decision marks a deliberate departure from his previous stateside recording approach.

    The veteran singer-guitarist, whose given name is Errol Williams, specifically organized Kingston recording sessions featuring accomplished local musicians, including his sons George Williams and Errol Williams. This familial collaboration adds a deeply personal dimension to the project, scheduled for release later this year.

    Wizdom’s previous album, ‘Rivers of Love’, was entirely recorded in Pittsburgh, where he has resided for over three decades. However, the artist expressed artistic dissatisfaction with the final product, noting it lacked the genuine cultural resonance he sought. This realization prompted his determined return to Jamaican studios.

    ‘There are definitely great vibes and more prosperity and quality here. No matter what, I have to stick to my roots. I can’t change—Jamaica is my roots and the music as well,’ Wizdom emphasized in an interview with Observer Online.

    Three advance singles from the album—’Cherry of My Life’, ‘Jamming on The Mountain’, and the title track ‘Reggae Dancehall’—were released in 2025 to generate anticipation. The project also features collaborations with Pittsburgh-based Jamaican keyboardist Delroy Clarke and American soul singer Anni Mai.

    Wizdom’s musical legacy traces back to 1970s Kingston, where he began his career recording for producers Prince Tony and Junior Murvin as member of harmony trio The Potentials. Since founding the Errol Wizdom World Beat Reggae Band with American Greg Hampton in 1992, he has remained a foundational figure in Pittsburgh’s reggae scene.

  • JPS dispatches more vehicles, linesmen

    JPS dispatches more vehicles, linesmen

    Jamaica’s national power infrastructure is receiving a substantial boost in its recovery efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has officially deployed 270 specialized trucks and equipment units alongside 470 newly commissioned linesmen to regions most severely impacted by the October Category Five storm.

    The strategic enhancement was formally commissioned during a ceremony at the JPS Hunts Bay Power Plant in Kingston on January 2, with Prime Minister Andrew Holness personally overseeing the deployment. The acquisition was made possible through a $150 million government loan approved by the Cabinet in November 2025, demonstrating unprecedented public-private partnership in disaster recovery.

    Prime Minister Holness defended the substantial financial commitment to the privately-owned utility company, emphasizing electricity as an essential public good that forms the foundation of economic growth, national security, and daily convenience. “The Government must do everything in its power to ensure our electricity grid is up and running effectively,” Holness stated, acknowledging while controversial, the decision aligned with the administration’s strategy of driving national recovery through power restoration.

    Current restoration statistics indicate approximately 90% islandwide electricity recovery, with severely affected parishes reaching 70% restoration—figures that exceed industry standards for disaster recovery timelines. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz characterized the equipment commissioning as “hope for the new year,” noting that combined with previous deployments, Jamaica now has nearly 300 equipment pieces and 470 linesmen dedicated to restoration efforts.

    JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant credited the accelerated recovery pace to strategic pre-hurricane positioning of overseas line workers and strong governmental partnerships. The ceremony was also attended by Finance Minister Fayval Williams, underscoring the cross-governmental priority placed on infrastructure restoration.

  • Tesla loses EV crown to China’s BYD in 2025 as sales slip

    Tesla loses EV crown to China’s BYD in 2025 as sales slip

    In a significant industry shift, Tesla Inc. has relinquished its position as the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer to Chinese automotive powerhouse BYD, according to year-end sales reports. The Elon Musk-led company reported approximately 1.64 million EV deliveries for 2025, representing an 8% decline from the previous year’s performance. This downturn contrasts sharply with BYD’s announcement of 2.26 million electric vehicles sold during the same period.

    The fourth quarter proved particularly challenging for Tesla, with 418,227 deliveries falling substantially below the FactSet consensus projection of 449,000 units. Industry analysts attribute this performance to multiple converging factors, including the expiration of the $7,500 federal tax credit in September 2025, which created immediate headwinds for consumer demand. Additionally, market observers note that Musk’s overt political endorsements of former President Donald Trump and far-right figures have impacted brand perception in key markets.

    BYD’s ascendancy marks a watershed moment in global automotive competition. Founded in 1995 as a battery specialist, the Shenzhen-based manufacturer has leveraged China’s position as the world’s largest new energy vehicle market to achieve remarkable scale. The company’s diversified approach—encompassing fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles—has proven strategically advantageous in addressing varied consumer preferences across international markets.

    While geopolitical tensions and substantial tariffs limit Chinese EV manufacturers’ access to the American market, BYD has successfully expanded its global footprint through aggressive growth in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and European territories. This international expansion occurs as domestic Chinese consumers demonstrate increasing price sensitivity, compelling manufacturers to seek growth opportunities abroad.

    Financial markets responded to Tesla’s announcement with measured concern, as shares declined 2.6% in New York trading. However, Wedbush Securities analysts noted that the quarterly performance exceeded some pessimistic forecasts, suggesting underlying resilience despite challenging conditions. The firm highlighted that regulatory approvals for autonomous driving technology in Europe remain a critical hurdle, with potential for sales recovery once these barriers are addressed.

    Emerging markets present a silver lining for Tesla, with smaller regions demonstrating stronger-than-anticipated growth that may partially offset declines in major territories like China and Europe. Industry watchers anticipate a period of market rebalancing as EV demand patterns stabilize following the tax credit expiration and manufacturers adapt to new competitive realities.

  • Belize announces resumption of shipments of goods to the United States

    Belize announces resumption of shipments of goods to the United States

    BELMOPAN, Belize—In a significant development for international trade, the Belize Postal Service (BPS) has officially reinstated all outbound shipments to the United States effective January 7. This move concludes a five-month suspension period that began in August last year, triggered by sweeping changes to U.S. customs regulations.

    The operational halt became imperative following the implementation of U.S. Executive Order 14324, which eliminated the traditional duty-free exemption threshold for international parcels. This regulatory shift mandated that all inbound shipments to the U.S., irrespective of their declared value, would become subject to standard customs duties and import taxes.

    To navigate these new regulatory requirements, BPS has implemented the Universal Postal Union’s Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Global Solution—an advanced logistics framework that represents a fundamental transformation in how international shipments are processed. This sophisticated system enables the pre-calculation and collection of U.S. duties and taxes before departure from Belize, creating a more transparent and efficient customs process.

    The DDP system offers multiple advantages: accelerated customs clearance procedures upon arrival in the U.S., complete cost transparency for shippers, significantly reduced delivery delays, and minimized package returns. This creates a more predictable and reliable shipping experience for both commercial senders and individual recipients.

    This strategic adoption positions Belize as a regional leader in compliant international postal logistics and ensures that Belizean businesses—particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—maintain uninterrupted access to their valuable U.S. customer base. The implementation underscores Belize’s commitment to participating fully in global e-commerce while adhering to international trade regulations.

    Postmaster General Dr. Marsha Price emphasized that ‘the Belize Postal Service remains dedicated to providing secure, reliable, and globally compliant postal services. Our implementation of the UPU’s DDP solution not only addresses new U.S. regulatory requirements but significantly enhances Belize’s capacity to engage in international digital commerce. We appreciate the public’s understanding during this necessary transitional period.’

    The BPS has encouraged customers seeking information about the new DDP procedures, applicable duty rates, or required shipping documentation to contact their local post office branch or the customer service department for comprehensive assistance.

  • Browne: Trinidad and Tobago has distanced itself from PM

    Browne: Trinidad and Tobago has distanced itself from PM

    In a blistering condemnation of current leadership, Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne has characterized Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as the most deficient leader in Trinidad and Tobago’s political history. During a December 30 press conference at the Opposition Leader’s Office in Port of Spain, Browne asserted that no previous administration has experienced such rapid public disengagement within its first eight months.

    Browne presented a comparative analysis of Persad-Bissessar’s current performance against her predecessors, including former prime ministers ANR Robinson, Patrick Manning, Dr. Keith Rowley, UNC founder Basdeo Panday, and Dr. Eric Williams. He maintained that even during their most challenging periods, these leaders provided superior governance to what the nation currently experiences.

    The senator particularly criticized the Prime Minister’s diplomatic approach, noting that her administration has diminished Trinidad and Tobago’s international standing through unprecedented attacks against Caribbean Community (Caricom) partners and other regional heads of state. Browne highlighted concerning patterns of government ministers employing deplorable language and launching personal attacks against family members of foreign leaders, describing these developments as a significant deterioration of diplomatic standards.

    Addressing communication deficiencies, Browne revealed that the Opposition Leader has repeatedly requested the Prime Minister to articulate her governmental vision and policy directions through proper channels. Instead, Persad-Bissessar has predominantly relied on social media platforms, selective WhatsApp communications, and irregular responses to individual journalists rather than conducting structured press conferences.

    The senator questioned the Prime Minister’s pre-election promise that citizens would find themselves ‘in a happier place’ within six months of her administration. He contrasted her communication style with that of former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who faced criticism for conducting excessive but regular media engagements.

    Browne further challenged Persad-Bissessar’s description of Trinidad and Tobago as a ‘lawless dump’ populated by people of ‘sub-par intelligence,’ warning that governance through insult and innuendo inevitably alienates the population. He noted that the current administration has experienced the most rapid loss of public support in the nation’s history.

    The senator also expressed concern about the international repercussions of the Prime Minister’s rhetoric, noting that Trinidad and Tobago nationals occupying senior positions throughout the Caribbean region experience professional unease and trepidation when their leader attacks regional partners, potentially affecting their careers and family stability.

  • WATCH: Capleton, Jamal, Macka, Jah Bouks and others ignite Angola Festival

    WATCH: Capleton, Jamal, Macka, Jah Bouks and others ignite Angola Festival

    OLD PERA, ST. THOMAS – The annual Angola Festival ushered in the new year with explosive energy as reggae and dancehall icons Capleton and Jamal delivered electrifying performances that captivated attendees despite a modest turnout.

    Capleton, renowned as ‘The Fireman,’ set the stage ablaze with his dynamic presence and hit-packed repertoire. The legendary artist had the audience in a state of euphoria with classic tracks including ‘Who Dem,’ ‘Lotion Man,’ and ‘Phone Line,’ demonstrating why he remains a dominant force in the genre.

    Jamal, celebrated as ‘Dunce Man,’ alongside dancehall queen Macka Diamond, provided equally powerful performances that kept patrons on their feet throughout their sets. Their engaging stage presence and lyrical delivery created an immersive experience for festival-goers.

    Event promoter and recording artist Jah Bouks delivered a heartfelt performance while expressing satisfaction with the festival’s continued growth. In a poignant moment, Bouks paid tribute to his late mother, Zyon Panton, who passed away earlier in 2025.

    The supporting lineup featured strong contributions from Shane O, Eddy G Bomba, Short Ghad, Quick Cook, Predator, Seventeen, Bushman, Bascom X, and Money Pallet. MC Nuffy maintained the event’s high energy levels, expertly engaging the crowd between performances.

    Attendees responded enthusiastically to the production, with many expressing confidence that the Angola Festival would continue to expand in both scale and quality in coming years. The event successfully blended musical excellence with cultural celebration, providing a memorable start to the new year for all present.

  • Maduro says Venezuela open to talks with US, amid pressure

    Maduro says Venezuela open to talks with US, amid pressure

    CARACAS, Venezuela—In a televised state interview on Thursday, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro strategically avoided directly confirming or denying a recent alleged United States military strike on Venezuelan territory. When pressed about the incident, Maduro deferred commentary, suggesting the matter “could be something we talk about in a few days.” This development follows assertions from US President Donald Trump, who claimed on Monday that US forces had executed a successful operation targeting and destroying a dock facility allegedly used for loading narcotics onto vessels. Trump described the action as targeting a key “implementation area” for drug traffickers, though he provided no specific operational details, including whether it was conducted by military or intelligence assets, or its precise location beyond being “along the shore.

    Despite this escalation, President Maduro projected a conciliatory stance towards Washington, expressing a conditional willingness to engage in bilateral discussions. “Wherever they want and whenever they want,” Maduro stated, indicating openness to dialogue concerning critical issues such as drug trafficking, oil policies, and migration. This overture occurs amidst a sustained period of US military pressure in the region, which has included numerous maritime strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September.

    The alleged land strike represents a significant and potentially precedent-setting escalation in the US campaign against narcotics trafficking in Latin America, marking what would be the first known ground incursion. The Trump administration has repeatedly threatened such actions against drug cartels, promising they would commence “soon.” However, the legal and ethical foundations of these operations are under intense scrutiny. The administration has yet to publicly furnish evidence verifying that the targeted vessels or facilities were indeed involved in illicit activities, sparking a robust debate among international law experts and human rights organizations. These groups contend that the strikes may constitute extrajudicial killings, a characterization vehemently rejected by US authorities.

  • Road users in eastern parishes urged to exercise caution due to heavy rainfall

    Road users in eastern parishes urged to exercise caution due to heavy rainfall

    Eastern Jamaica is grappling with severe transportation disruptions as relentless rainfall continues to batter the region, prompting urgent safety advisories from the National Works Agency (NWA). The persistent precipitation has resulted in extensive flooding, clogged drainage systems, and significant silt accumulation across major road networks.

    Stephen Shaw, Manager of Communication and Customer Services at the NWA, issued an official statement on Friday identifying the most critically affected zones. The coastal corridor stretching from Ocho Rios in St Ann to Port Antonio in Portland has experienced the most substantial infrastructure challenges, with multiple communities reporting impassable road conditions.

    Specific impact assessments reveal that St Mary parish is confronting severe flooding in Rio Nuevo, Stewart Town, and Port Maria. The situation is particularly dire in Annotto Bay, where the Mother Ford drain has reached maximum capacity, creating additional flood risks. Meanwhile, in Portland, primary transportation routes through St Margarets Bay, Orange Bay, and Windsor Castle have been compromised by water accumulation and debris.

    The NWA has issued emphatic warnings to all travelers, explicitly urging motorists to avoid attempting passage through heavily flooded roadways. Pedestrians have similarly been advised to seek alternative routes and exercise extreme caution when navigating affected areas. The adverse weather conditions are attributed to an atmospheric trough that has settled over the eastern parishes, sustaining the prolonged rainfall pattern that shows no immediate signs of abating. Transportation authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while recommending that residents prioritize safety measures and stay informed through official channels.