Carib Scope

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  • Digicel/Digicel Foundation invest $1.7 mil to spread holiday cheer

    Digicel/Digicel Foundation invest $1.7 mil to spread holiday cheer

    Digicel and its philanthropic arm, Digicel Foundation, have demonstrated significant corporate citizenship through a combined investment of $1.7 million in community enhancement programs during the recent holiday season. This substantial financial commitment was channeled through two distinct initiatives: the Christmas Runs on Real Connections campaign and the Extraordinary Projects Impacting Communities (EPIC) programme.

    The Christmas campaign, allocated $700,000, focused on creating festive engagement through customer appreciation activities. A highlight of this initiative was the mobile Community Pop-Up Caravan that traversed markets and major thoroughfares nationwide. Accompanied by Santa Claus and festive assistants, the caravan distributed various gifts including grocery items and Christmas hams, creating spontaneous moments of joy for residents across both Trinidad and Tobago.

    Simultaneously, the Foundation reinforced its dedication to sustainable social development through its EPIC programme with a $1 million investment. This strategic funding initiative specifically targets the non-profit sector, providing substantial grants to organizations driving community-based projects. In early December, the foundation distributed ten grants of $100,000 each to selected NGOs nationwide. These funds are specifically earmarked for projects that promote sustainable development and create lasting positive impact in communities.

    The comprehensive investment strategy reflects Digicel’s core philosophy that seasonal celebrations should transcend mere festivity to generate tangible, meaningful differences in people’s lives. Both programs were specifically designed to foster genuine human connections while supporting broader national development objectives, according to the company’s December 31st media release.

  • Port of Spain businessman first murder for 2026

    Port of Spain businessman first murder for 2026

    The new year in Trinidad and Tobago commenced with tragedy as Ricardo “Fish” Taylor, a local shop proprietor, became the nation’s inaugural homicide victim on January 1st. The shooting occurred in broad daylight at the intersection of George and Prince Streets in Port of Spain, marking a violent start to 2026.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate Taylor was socializing with companions approximately at 1:30 pm when he briefly visited his commercial establishment to purchase beverages. Surveillance evidence reveals a masked assailant approaching unexpectedly and discharging three rounds at close range before fleeing the scene. Emergency medical personnel pronounced Taylor deceased at the location.

    Law enforcement personnel conducted forensic investigations while grieving family members and curious onlookers observed the proceedings. In a particularly poignant detail, currency for the intended beverage purchase slipped from the victim’s hand during evidence collection, scattering across the pavement near his remains.

    Community members expressed profound shock regarding the incident. An anonymous bystander recounted: “I initially mistook the gunfire for festive fireworks before realizing the horrifying truth.” Another resident disclosed an ominous prelude to the shooting – moments before the attack, an individual had jokingly accused Taylor of collaborating with law enforcement through surveillance monitoring.

    Lennox Smith, political leader of the Love party and eyewitness to the events, revealed Taylor had been preparing culinary offerings for a New Year’s gathering. Smith emphasized the victim’s clean legal record and advocated for non-violent conflict resolution, stating: “Had there been any disputes, mediation could have prevented this tragedy. We recently distributed holiday hampers to community families, making this violence particularly senseless.”
    This incident occurs against a backdrop of improving security statistics, with official reports indicating 369 homicides throughout 2025 – representing a 43% reduction compared to previous annual figures.

  • Rreecey wants to create riddim

    Rreecey wants to create riddim

    Trinidadian-American artist Chereece ‘Rreecey’ Bernard, currently residing in New York City, has unveiled an ambitious musical trilogy for Carnival 2026, showcasing her evolution from calypso roots to contemporary soca expression. The 36-year-old singer-songwriter’s latest single ‘At Last,’ released November 17, captures the essence of Carnival’s liberating spirit, encouraging listeners to cast aside stress and negative energy during the festive season.

    Rreecey’s musical journey, which began in primary school singing calypso, has expanded to include multiple genres while maintaining her Caribbean foundations. Her October release ‘Fever,’ penned by acclaimed songwriter Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop, demonstrates her collaborative approach to music creation. A third upcoming collaboration with Devon ‘Dev’ Harris completes her 2026 Carnival trilogy.

    The artist credits her musical development to influences including the late calypso legend Sandra ‘Singing Sandra’ Des Vignes and contemporary collaborator Eggy Dan. Despite the significant financial investment required to produce new music annually, Rreecey remains undeterred, having built a diverse discography that includes tracks like ‘Afrowhine,’ ‘Meh Head Bad,’ and ‘Pong It’ in recent years.

    Looking beyond Carnival, Rreecey plans to explore reggae and dancehall genres while developing an all-female riddim project. Her primary aspiration for 2026 remains connecting with broader Trinidadian audiences and providing uplifting musical experiences during challenging times.

  • ‘Maggotty Island’ moves JPS to ‘the last mile’

    ‘Maggotty Island’ moves JPS to ‘the last mile’

    In a remarkable display of engineering ingenuity, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has implemented an innovative solution to restore electricity to storm-ravaged sections of St. Elizabeth following the devastation wrought by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa on October 28th.

    The breakthrough centers around the strategic utilization of the Maggotty Hydroelectric Power Plant, one of JPS’s renewable energy facilities. Traditionally, severe damage to transmission infrastructure would prevent power generated at such plants from reaching consumers. However, JPS technicians conceptualized and developed a pioneering approach that enables electricity from the hydro plant to be fed directly into isolated segments of the distribution network.

    This isolated system, dubbed ‘The Maggotty Island,’ has successfully energized approximately 2,000 customers who would otherwise have faced months without electricity while crews rebuild severely damaged transmission lines traversing challenging mountainous terrain.

    JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant emphasized the unprecedented nature of the challenge: “The damage caused by Hurricane Melissa required a different way of thinking. The Maggotty Island exemplifies our team’s ingenuity and determination to find solutions under the most difficult circumstances. By creating this islanded system, we’ve been able to energize communities using renewable power despite the complete unavailability of connecting transmission lines.”

    Grant highlighted that this innovation has been instrumental in restoring power to 90% of JPS customers, a milestone achievement combining multiple strategic elements. These included proactive deployment of North American line workers before the hurricane made landfall, support from Caribbean utility partners, and procurement of specialized equipment.

    Unlike intermittent solar and wind systems, the Maggotty Plant represents what Grant termed “firm renewable” power, generating consistent electricity using the Maggotty River with a capacity of up to 12 megawatts. The system now powers critical infrastructure including the National Water Commission pump, National Irrigation Commission pump, and telecommunication sites, alongside residential customers.

    The Maggotty Island follows another innovative restoration initiative—the Emergency Mobile Power Generation Unit currently supplying nearly 1,000 customers in Treasure Beach. Both solutions form part of a comprehensive restoration and resilience strategy while permanent repairs continue.

    Despite significant progress, Grant cautioned that the final phase of restoration will be particularly challenging: “We are now at the most difficult stage. It will take more than 10 times the effort to get power to 10 times fewer customers.”

    In parallel, Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced additional equipment and linemen scheduled to arrive to accelerate restoration efforts, assuring residents that most communities without power should see significant improvements within weeks through a structured approach prioritizing main towns, thoroughfares, and then remote areas.

  • ATL Autobahn shines light on customers

    ATL Autobahn shines light on customers

    ATL Autobahn, the authorized Jamaican dealer for BMW vehicles, hosted an exclusive year-end celebration dubbed ‘LUMINOUS’ on December 20, 2025. The premium gathering took place at Bridget Sandals on Hope Road in St. Andrew, serving as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the brand’s dedicated customer base.

    Uche McLean, Head of Business at ATL Autobahn, emphasized the event’s significance in recognizing remarkable brand loyalty. “Having represented multiple automotive brands in Jamaica, I’ve never witnessed such profound devotion. BMW owners exhibit unparalleled allegiance to the marque,” McLean stated in discussions with Jamaica Observer’s Auto magazine. The executive, who assumed his role approximately one year ago, described the event as strategically aligned with BMW’s premium positioning.

    Guests enjoyed sophisticated entertainment, gourmet catering, and premium beverages while exploring Bridget Sandals’ luxury footwear collections. The venue featured several prominent BMW models, creating an immersive brand experience.

    Despite operational challenges following Hurricane Melissa’s recent impact, McLean confirmed BMW’s sustained market dominance as Jamaica’s leading premium automotive brand. The storm primarily affected western regions of the island, with the Montego Bay showroom escaping significant damage. The company implemented comprehensive support measures for affected customers and staff during recovery periods.

    Sales projections remain strong, with 2025 volumes expected to match previous year’s performance—a notable achievement given hurricane-related disruptions. The BMW X4 and X3 models are engaged in a tight sales competition, though McLean anticipates the X3 will ultimately surpass the X4 by year’s end.

    The BMW X4 Sports Activity Vehicle, having concluded production in November as part of the brand’s electrification strategy, will return as a fully electric model in upcoming months. McLean outlined plans to address this transition through the X3 and its forthcoming variants.

    Looking toward 2026, BMW Jamaica prepares for the introduction of the all-electric iX3 featuring the innovative Neue Klasse platform, expected to arrive in mid-2026, signaling the brand’s continued commitment to technological advancement and sustainable mobility.

  • Anguish & anger

    Anguish & anger

    A profound tragedy has struck the community of Brown’s Lane in Granville, St James, Jamaica, triggering widespread outrage and demands for accountability. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of New Year’s Day, resulted in the death of four-year-old Romain Bowman and two adult males, Kevon Martinez and another unidentified man, with a 68-year-old woman also sustaining injuries.

    According to eyewitness accounts from residents, a joint police and military team conducted an operation in response to reports of explosions and gunfire in the area. Nambia McFarlane, Romain’s mother, provided a harrowing testimony, stating that her son was asleep in bed when the shooting commenced. She recounted screaming warnings that there was a child in the house, only to be met with profanity and orders to stay inside from security personnel. McFarlane insists there were no gunmen present in her home, contradicting the official rationale for the operation.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) issued an official statement extending “sincere condolence” to the family and expressing “deep regret” for the loss of young life. The JCF confirmed that investigations are ongoing, being conducted by both internal and independent oversight bodies to thoroughly examine the circumstances.

    The community’s grief swiftly transformed into organized protest. Residents blocked roads with old furniture and appliances, waving placards and demanding justice. Clarissa Anderson, another resident, claimed a bullet grazed her head as she slept, further fueling allegations of reckless conduct by the security forces.

    Deputy Superintendent of Police Peter Salkey addressed the media, confirming the seizure of an AK-47 rifle during the operation and promising transparency in the ongoing probe. While commiserating with the families, he stressed the necessity of police activities to ensure public safety.

    Councillor Michael Troupe has called for the immediate removal of all involved security personnel from front-line duty pending investigation, emphasizing the profound injustice of a child being killed in his own bed. The incident has raised serious questions about operational protocols, the use of lethal force in civilian areas, and the balance between public safety and the protection of innocent lives.

  • REWIND 2025 REWIND

    REWIND 2025 REWIND

    The year 2025 marked a monumental period for Jamaica’s entertainment industry, characterized by an unprecedented global renaissance of dancehall music that cemented the island’s status as a cultural powerhouse. This resurgence propelled both legendary and emerging artists to international stardom, creating a narrative of spectacular highs juxtaposed with profound losses.

    The year commenced with a historic event as thousands of fans gathered at the National Stadium for Vybz Kartel’s first live performance in thirteen years following his August 2024 prison release. The star-studded ‘Freedom Street’ concert featured reunions with his protégés and appearances by Bounty Killer, Spice, and Busta Rhymes. Kartel’s remarkable comeback culminated in his official coronation as ‘King of Dancehall’ at Reggae Sumfest in July, an event that drew record-breaking crowds despite a brief stampede during the celebrations.

    Simultaneously, veteran artist Mavado made his long-awaited return to Jamaica in October after resolving legal matters that had kept him abroad since 2018. His homecoming, captured in viral social media moments, was set to be celebrated with a major concert until Hurricane Melissa forced its postponement.

    The industry celebrated significant milestones, most notably Sizzla Kalonji’s 30-year anniversary in music. His ‘Rise to the Occasion’ concert at Sabina Park featured groundbreaking inclusivity with sign language interpreters and performances by Etana, Spragga Benz, and Christopher Martin. Prime Minister Andrew Holness personally acknowledged Sizzla’s inspirational impact, while other artists including Aidonia, D’Angel, and Elephant Man also marked career anniversaries.

    Beyond musical achievements, the industry faced challenges including the unfortunate incident involving Miss Jamaica Universe Dr. Gabrielle Henry, who sustained serious injuries after falling during pageant preliminaries in Thailand.

    The late October arrival of Hurricane Melissa brought devastating economic losses, but prompted an extraordinary response from the entertainment community. Artists including Spice, Masicka, Sean Paul, Vybz Kartel, Mavado, Shaggy, Shenseea, and Buju Banton mobilized relief efforts through their foundations and participated in charity events like the I Love Jamaica Telethon and Jamaica Strong Benefit concert. They distributed essential supplies, assisted with cleanup, and provided emotional support to affected communities.

    The December ‘war season’ ignited a musical clash between Masicka and Tommy Lee Sparta, whose lyrical exchange dominated social media and streaming platforms. While tensions stemmed from debates about dancehall hierarchy following Kartel’s coronation, both artists maintained musical integrity, providing entertainment that lifted spirits post-hurricane.

    2025 also brought solemn moments as the industry mourned the passing of iconic figures: Danny English (54, diabetes), Determine (52, stomach cancer), Cocoa Tea (65, lymphoma and pneumonia), Munair Zacca (79, lung disorder), and reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff (81). Their contributions were honored nationally, with Jimmy Cliff receiving an official funeral at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

    Through triumphs and tragedies, Jamaica’s entertainment industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, unity, and philanthropic spirit, solidifying its global influence while honoring its rich legacy.

  • Legacy Isle bounces back with dominant win in ‘Chris’ Armond Memorial Sprint

    Legacy Isle bounces back with dominant win in ‘Chris’ Armond Memorial Sprint

    In a breathtaking display of speed and supremacy, Legacy Isle (Shackleford — Queenameina) captured the $2-million Christopher ‘Chris’ Armond Memorial Sprint with a record-shattering performance at Caymanas Park on December 27, 2025. Under the expert guidance of trainer Rohan Crichton and jockey Raddesh ‘Sneaky Fox’ Roman, the bay thoroughbred decimated a field of five competitors, crossing the finish line a staggering 12 lengths ahead of his nearest rival.

    The Graded Stakes/Open Allowance event, contested over 5½ furlongs (1,100m) for three-year-olds and upward, witnessed Legacy Isle’s triumphant return to form following a second-place finish behind Rideallday in the prestigious US$300,000 Mouttet Mile just three weeks prior. Breaking sharply from the gate, Legacy Isle engaged in a brief tussle for the early lead with Pack Plays (Dane Nelson) before asserting his dominance heading into the half-mile turn.

    Once seizing control, the race transformed into a solo exhibition. Legacy Isle accelerated effortlessly into the straight, unleashing a powerful surge that left the competition trailing. His final time of 1:04.2 (23.1 x 46.0 x 57.4) established a new Stakes record, cementing his status as a sprinter of exceptional caliber. Desert of Malibu (Dane Dawkins) secured second position, with California Crown (Tevin Foster) completing the top three.

    This decisive victory capped an outstanding 2025 campaign for Legacy Isle, concluding the year with six wins from ten starts and amassing over $14 million in Stakes earnings. Jockey Raddesh Roman attributed the effortless win to intimate knowledge of his mount’s capabilities, stating, ‘I know this horse very well… I just try to get a clean break, relax him as much as possible, and save him for the home stretch. He is a very nice horse.’ The performance not only demonstrated Legacy Isle’s recovery but also his formidable potential for the upcoming racing season.

  • DaCosta secures fourth-consecutive trainers’ championship in thrilling finish

    DaCosta secures fourth-consecutive trainers’ championship in thrilling finish

    In a dramatic conclusion to Jamaica’s horse racing season, Jason DaCosta secured his fourth consecutive trainers’ championship despite facing a formidable challenge from rival Anthony Nunes. The championship hung in the balance during the prestigious US$300,000 Mouttet Mile on December 6, where Nunes needed only a victory to overtake DaCosta’s nearly $15 million lead.

    The race unfolded with unexpected results: DaCosta’s horse Funcaandun captured third place, earning $4 million, while Nunes’ contenders Nautical Star and Tiz Tok failed to deliver strong performances. This outcome expanded DaCosta’s post-race advantage to $11 million, ultimately securing his championship victory by a final margin of $6,142,250.

    Reflecting on his hard-fought victory, DaCosta expressed gratitude to his supporters: ‘I’m feeling good. It was a lot of hard work, it was a tough year, but I’m glad I got it done. I have to give thanks to all the owners who supported me and my crew, my team, everybody who worked hard all year.’

    The final statistics revealed DaCosta’s exceptional season performance: 75 winners, 64 second-place finishes, and 56 third-place results from 460 starts, accumulating $83,980,350 in stakes. Nunes concluded with 72 winners, 63 seconds, and 58 thirds from 466 starts, earning $77,838,100.

    Despite his victory, DaCosta raised concerns about the championship format, questioning whether a single race should determine an entire season’s outcome. ‘I don’t think it is fair. I mean, it is too large of a gap. One race can erase an entire year’s work,’ he stated, suggesting promoters consider eliminating such high-stakes races from championship calculations.

    This fourth consecutive title solidifies DaCosta’s dominance in Jamaican horse racing, extending his winning streak through 2022, 2023, 2024, and now 2025, establishing him as one of the nation’s most accomplished trainers.

  • We Jammin dominates Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes

    We Jammin dominates Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes

    In a spectacular display of equine prowess, the chestnut colt We Jammin delivered a commanding performance to seize the $4-million Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes on December 26, 2025. Trained by Peter-John Parsard and expertly ridden by jockey Omar Walker, the promising two-year-old dominated the one-mile Futurity contest at 1,600 meters, crossing the finish line with an impressive six-length margin in a time of 1:42.2.

    Parsard expressed no surprise at the emphatic victory, revealing his longstanding confidence in the colt’s exceptional abilities. “The horse is a very talented horse; he has a lot of heart and a lot of fight,” Parsard stated, referencing We Jammin’s previous maiden win at seven furlongs despite being short of work and running without Lasix medication.

    The victory strategy unfolded perfectly as We Jammin broke well at the start, settling behind Salute The Don (ridden by Dane Dawkins) for most of the race. As the field entered the final stretch, Walker positioned his mount for a decisive move, overtaking the leader with a powerful surge that secured an uncontested victory. Salute The Don maintained second position, followed by Fernando (ridden by Dane Nelson) in third.

    Parsard credited owner Paul Lumsden’s dedication to the sport, noting: “He has been in racing for so long and he has put so much into it—heart, sweat, blood, money, everything.” The trainer also highlighted the colt’s significant improvement since his debut and expressed optimism for the 2026 racing season.

    Jockey Walker echoed the confidence in the champion colt, stating: “I know this horse inside and outside. He stays forever; he is a very good horse. As long as he keeps sound and nothing goes wrong with him, he is going to be a tough nut to crack.”

    With this victory marking his second win from two starts, We Jammin has firmly established himself as a leading contender for the Champion Two-Year-Old title, signaling the emergence of a potentially dominant force in Jamaican horse racing.