Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • KHMH Responds to Concerns Over Infant Deaths

    KHMH Responds to Concerns Over Infant Deaths

    The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (KHMHA) in Belize has issued a formal response to growing public concern regarding a series of infant deaths at its facility. While expressing profound empathy for affected families, the hospital maintains that established clinical protocols were followed throughout these tragic incidents.

    In an official statement released recently, KHMHA acknowledged the ‘immeasurable and painful loss’ experienced by parents and emphasized their commitment to providing ongoing support and compassionate engagement with grieving families. The hospital clarified that all deceased infants were undergoing treatment for severe medical complications including extreme prematurity, congenital birth defects, and malnutrition—conditions that significantly elevate mortality risks among newborns.

    Despite these explanations, a detailed account from a bereaved mother reveals substantial gaps between institutional assurances and lived experiences. Her infant, born prematurely at 36 weeks, was initially discharged within 24 hours of delivery—a decision she questioned from the outset. When she returned with a medical referral concerning the child’s jaundice condition, she endured hours of waiting without receiving timely attention.

    The mother described concerning medical interventions, including the use of heat therapy rather than standard phototherapy for jaundice, repeated difficulties in obtaining blood samples, and the administration of 29-day-old blood for transfusion. Medical staff reportedly made judgmental comments regarding her parenting capabilities during this critical period.

    Tragically, her son deteriorated rapidly overnight, exhibiting breathing difficulties and persistent vomiting. Despite resuscitation attempts, the infant succumbed to septic shock. The mother further reported receiving minimal emotional support from hospital staff following the death and subsequently facing insensitive questioning from police and human services regarding potential neglect.

    KHMHA maintains that all procedures were conducted in accordance with legal and ethical obligations, including patient confidentiality protocols, and emphasizes its ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to ensure neonatal care standards.

  • WATCH: PM Suggests Vacant Lots Could Be Used for Parking After Derelict Buildings Are Removed

    WATCH: PM Suggests Vacant Lots Could Be Used for Parking After Derelict Buildings Are Removed

    In a strategic move to address urban decay and congestion, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has put forward a novel proposal for the capital city of St. John’s. During a public consultation focused on urban redevelopment, Browne suggested that property owners could temporarily convert vacant lots—created after the removal of derelict structures—into paid parking areas, particularly within the central business district. This initiative is presented not as a mandate but as a viable option for landowners to generate interim revenue while contributing to city beautification. The Prime Minister emphasized that such productive use of cleared spaces would prevent idleness, reduce urban blight, and improve overall order. This proposal aligns with broader goals of easing traffic congestion, optimizing underutilized land, and supporting long-term urban renewal plans. The idea emerged from ongoing discussions among officials and residents about practical solutions to enhance the city’s functionality and aesthetic appeal amid challenges like parking shortages and redevelopment delays.

  • In the face of vandalism

    In the face of vandalism

    In the aftermath of Saint Lucia’s December 1 General Election, a disturbing pattern of political vandalism has persisted despite the conclusion of electoral campaigns. During the heated pre-election period, multiple incidents were reported by competing parties regarding the defacement and removal of campaign materials, including posters, billboards, and flags, allegedly perpetrated by opposing supporters.

    While most large-scale campaign installations were dismantled following the election, one prominent billboard featuring UWP candidate Marcella Johnson remained standing on private property in Gros Islet. Last week, this billboard became the target of vandalism when it was deliberately splattered with red paint in an act of post-electoral sabotage.

    Johnson’s official social media channels issued a strong condemnation of the incident, stating: ‘This is completely unacceptable and must be condemned without hesitation.’ The statement further elaborated: ‘Political competition ends at the ballot box. Once elections are over, democracy demands maturity, respect, and restraint. Vandalism, intimidation, and spiteful acts do not strengthen political movements, they weaken them and erode the civic culture we all depend on.’

    The communication emphasized that such destructive behavior ultimately reflects more negatively on its perpetrators than on its targets. The message concluded with a call for elevated political discourse: ‘Saint Lucia deserves better than this kind of petty political hostility. We can disagree without destroying, campaign without bullying, and express opinions without resorting to vandalism.’

  • PHOTOS: Roadworks Continue Along Jennings Extension and Hermitage Road

    PHOTOS: Roadworks Continue Along Jennings Extension and Hermitage Road

    Significant infrastructure enhancement initiatives are currently advancing at the intersections of Jennings Extension and Hermitage Road, marking a pivotal phase in the region’s urban development strategy. Construction crews have mobilized heavy equipment and personnel to execute comprehensive improvements to the area’s foundational utilities and transportation networks. This substantial investment in public works represents a concerted effort by municipal authorities to modernize aging infrastructure, enhance traffic flow efficiency, and bolster community resilience. The ongoing project involves systematic upgrades to road surfaces, drainage systems, and utility conduits, with work proceeding according to meticulously planned phases that prioritize minimal disruption to local residents and businesses. Transportation officials confirm that the improvements will ultimately deliver enhanced safety parameters, reduced congestion, and increased longevity of critical infrastructure assets. While temporary traffic modifications remain in effect, the completed project promises to establish a more robust and sustainable framework for regional connectivity and economic vitality.

  • CARICOM and partners launch multi-tiered online training in crop protection for regional stakeholders

    CARICOM and partners launch multi-tiered online training in crop protection for regional stakeholders

    A significant capacity-building initiative is underway across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with hundreds of agricultural professionals embarking on an intensive six-week training program focused on advanced crop protection. This collaborative effort, which launched on January 26, 2025, represents a strategic partnership between the CARICOM Secretariat, the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), and the non-profit organization COLEAD, which specializes in sustainable agriculture.

    The program employs a flexible online learning format designed to accommodate working professionals. It specifically targets farm managers, horticulturalists, production supervisors, nursery operators, and other key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain. The curriculum is structured to address critical challenges facing CARICOM member states, particularly those related to pest management, disease control, and meeting international sanitary standards.

    Shaun Baugh, Programme Manager for Agriculture at the CARICOM Secretariat, emphasized the program’s significance during opening remarks. He highlighted how effective crop protection directly influences yield quality, production costs, market accessibility, and ultimately, farmer livelihoods. The training has already attracted substantial interest, with over 300 registrations and approximately 150 participants actively engaged from the outset.

    The initiative aligns with CARICOM’s ambitious ‘Vision 25 x 2025 + 5’ food security framework, which aims to reduce the region’s food import expenditure by 25% through enhanced local production and improved trade capabilities. Ansari Hosein, Executive Director of CARDI, further contextualized the training’s importance by noting the compounding challenges of climate change, pest-related crop losses, and stringent international trade requirements.

    The educational program follows a progressive three-tier structure:

    – Foundation Level: Introduces core principles of crop protection, pest identification, and the role of chemical controls within integrated management systems

    – Intermediate Level: Examines pest biology, population dynamics, plant diseases, weed competition, and resistance issues with focus on yield optimization

    – Advanced Level: Develops practical skills in pest monitoring, intervention thresholds, and strategy implementation using real-world case studies

    Upon completion in March, participants will be equipped with enhanced capabilities to identify threats, implement appropriate interventions, and apply protection measures more efficiently—directly contributing to the region’s food sovereignty and economic resilience.

  • Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and Environmental Health Unit collaborate to enhance food safety standards across major agricultural sectors

    Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and Environmental Health Unit collaborate to enhance food safety standards across major agricultural sectors

    Dominica has taken significant strides in strengthening its agricultural sector through a comprehensive Food Safety and Hygiene Training Workshop held on January 28, 2026. The collaborative event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Environmental Health Unit, convened at the Prevost Cinemall to address critical food safety protocols.

    The workshop formed an integral component of the Gender-Responsive Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Systems (GCAF) Initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada. Twelve participants representing diverse agricultural sectors including vegetable production, apiculture, and dasheen supply chains participated in the capacity-building program.

    Under the guidance of Mrs. Calma Louis, Environmental Officer from the Environmental Health Unit, and with support from FAO specialists Mrs. Shan Oliver-Julien and Mrs. Amonia Paul-Rolle, the training focused on implementing enhanced food safety standards and hygiene practices. The curriculum combined practical hands-on instruction with strategic discussions about inclusive, gender-responsive approaches to agricultural development.

    Participants acquired essential knowledge in proper food handling techniques, sanitation procedures, and compliance with national health regulations. This empowerment enables them to implement elevated standards within their operations, thereby contributing to more robust and secure food systems throughout Dominica.

    The initiative demonstrates the sustained partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and the Environmental Health Unit to strengthen agricultural capabilities, protect public health, and promote climate-resilient farming practices. The GCAF Project continues to support farmers, producer groups, and value-chain stakeholders in adopting climate-smart methodologies, improving market readiness, and ensuring equitable participation across gender lines in vital agricultural sectors—ultimately fostering more sustainable food systems nationwide.

  • Car Dealer Fatally Shot in Corozal Town

    Car Dealer Fatally Shot in Corozal Town

    COROZAL TOWN, BELIZE — A brutal targeted assassination has claimed the life of a local automobile entrepreneur, marking the second violent attempt on his life within three months. Calvin Myers, 36, from Calcutta Village, was executed with a single gunshot to the head while entering Hotel Martin on First Avenue around 8:00 PM Thursday evening.

    According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police investigations, Myers had just been dropped off at the establishment when an unidentified assailant emerged from the roadside and delivered the fatal point-blank shot. The perpetrator immediately fled the scene in a waiting vehicle parked nearby, demonstrating calculated premeditation.

    This homicide represents an escalation of violence against Myers, who survived a previous shooting incident in November 2025 within the same municipality. The recurrence suggests either an unresolved criminal vendetta or ongoing tensions within the local business community.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation but have yet to establish a motive or make any arrests. The Brazen nature of the attack in a public location has raised concerns about public safety and organized crime in the region.

    The case continues to develop as police pursue multiple investigative avenues. Additional information is anticipated during the News 5 evening broadcast at 6:00 PM as investigators work to unravel the circumstances behind this targeted killing.

  • ‘His Priority Was Music’: Belizean Artist Killed in US

    ‘His Priority Was Music’: Belizean Artist Killed in US

    The Belizean music community is mourning the tragic loss of artist Anfernee ‘Big Bang’ Pollard, who was fatally shot during a domestic altercation at his Las Vegas residence on Thursday, January 30, 2026. The 31-year-old recording artist, who had relocated to the United States to advance his musical career, was reportedly targeted along with a female companion by her former partner according to preliminary investigations.

    Law enforcement authorities confirmed that the incident was reported to police by a 10-year-old child present at the residence, highlighting the traumatic circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate the case as a domestic violence homicide.

    Pollard’s brother, Allan Pollard, remembered the artist as a deeply focused and ambitious individual who prioritized his musical aspirations above all else. ‘Those who knew Bang personally understood he wasn’t involved in trouble—he was a solid, grounded youth completely dedicated to his craft,’ Allan stated in an emotional tribute.

    The entertainment industry in Belize has been shaken by Pollard’s untimely death, with an outpouring of grief flooding social media platforms. Fans and colleagues have celebrated his contributions to the music scene, particularly hits like ‘Cocaina’ and ‘Classy’ that established his distinctive sound and energetic performance style.

    One tribute captured the collective sentiment: ‘Big Bang Manifest revolutionized Belizean music with an undeniable energy that captivated the nation. His artistic legacy will continue to resonate through his recordings, ensuring his cultural impact endures beyond his tragic passing.’

    As developments continue to emerge, the Belizean community awaits further details while reflecting on the premature loss of a talented artist whose career showed immense promise.

  • Sugar Slump Drags Exports at Year’s End

    Sugar Slump Drags Exports at Year’s End

    Belize concluded 2025 with a significantly expanded trade imbalance, according to newly released data from the Statistical Institute of Belize. The nation’s economic portrait revealed a stark contrast between surging import expenditures and collapsing export revenues during the critical December trading period.

    Import figures soared by 17.7% year-over-year to reach $271.4 million in the final month of 2025. This substantial increase was propelled by several major capital acquisitions including a sailing catamaran, aircraft engine, and commercial kitchen equipment. Concurrently, the country experienced notable spikes in fuel imports alongside increased purchases of fertilizers, processed food items, and steel coils.

    The export sector presented a dramatically different narrative, with earnings plummeting 68.2% from the previous December. Revenue crashed from $77 million in December 2024 to a mere $24.5 million one year later. This devastating decline was predominantly driven by the complete absence of bulk sugar shipments during the period, representing a nearly $50 million loss. Other traditional export commodities including molasses, citrus products, and marine goods similarly recorded diminished returns. Bananas emerged as the sole positive performer, climbing to $9 million in export value.

    Geographic trade patterns underwent notable shifts throughout December. Export earnings from the United Kingdom deteriorated substantially, while sales to the United States, CARICOM nations, and Central American partners also declined. Conversely, shipments to European Union markets showed improvement primarily due to banana exports, and trade with Mexico expanded following increased cattle sales.

    For the entirety of 2025, Belize’s import total reached $2.91 billion, remaining virtually unchanged from 2024 levels. Meanwhile, annual exports contracted by 16% to $390 million. The sugar sector again dominated this annual decline, though marginal relief was provided by marine products, bananas, beans, and cattle exports.

  • ExxonMobil mulls working in Stabroek Block nearer Venezuela

    ExxonMobil mulls working in Stabroek Block nearer Venezuela

    ExxonMobil is evaluating potential hydrocarbon exploration in the contested Stabroek Block near Venezuela’s maritime border, citing improved regional security conditions following significant political developments in Caracas. CEO Darren Woods revealed during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call that reduced Venezuelan naval patrols could create a “more friendly environment” for operations in previously inaccessible zones.

    The strategic reconsideration follows dramatic changes in Venezuela’s political landscape, including the recent capture and extradition of former President Nicolas Maduro to face narcotics and weapons charges in the United States. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez’s administration has demonstrated increased cooperation with international partners, implementing legislative reforms designed to attract foreign energy investment.

    Historical tensions have previously prevented exploration in the border-adjacent areas, with Venezuelan naval forces expelling seismic research vessels in both 2013 and 2018. The current force majeure status—implemented due to security concerns—has effectively paused operational timelines, which Woods characterized as providing strategic flexibility rather than hindering development.

    The International Court of Justice’s pending ruling on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award represents a critical determinant for future activities. This legal proceeding, addressing the longstanding Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, will substantially influence ExxonMobil’s operational decisions in the region.

    Despite these geopolitical complexities, ExxonMobil continues achieving exceptional production levels in Guyana, currently extracting approximately 875,000 barrels daily across four Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels. This output exceeds initial investment projections by 100,000 barrels, demonstrating remarkable operational efficiency.

    With the Stabroek Block exploration license expiring in late 2027, the company is conducting comprehensive seismic analysis and leveraging data from development wells to identify optimal drilling targets. Woods indicated the company would make strategically informed decisions regarding block relinquishment based on geological assessments and opportunity evaluations.