Carib Scope

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  • Local sports club brings tidings of joy to some senior citizens and less fortunate individuals

    Local sports club brings tidings of joy to some senior citizens and less fortunate individuals

    Marking a significant milestone in its history, the Somerset Sports Club of St. Joseph has channeled the momentum from its 50th anniversary celebrations into a powerful dual mission of charitable outreach and athletic advancement. As the longest-standing sporting organization in Dominica, the club has expanded its mandate beyond the playing field by launching a dedicated Community Development and Social Enhancement Program.

    In a heartfelt holiday initiative, the club extended its generosity to national institutions and local community groups. Essential groceries, including supplies of chicken, beans, rice, beverages, and toiletries, were distributed to the Dominica Infirmary and the Grotto Home for the Homeless. Further amplifying its impact, the club provided key ingredients to the Seventh Day Adventist Church to support the preparation of warm, nutritious Christmas meals for vulnerable community members. Recipients of these donations expressed profound gratitude for the club’s empathetic and timely contribution to their seasonal celebrations.

    Club President Ambrose Sylvester emphasized that this humanitarian drive was undertaken despite the organization facing its own operational challenges, underscoring a deep-rooted commitment to foundational principles of community support.

    Concurrently, the club is making substantial progress on a significant infrastructure project. A new concrete cricket wicket, adjacent to the St. Joseph playing field, is now approximately 90% complete. This facility is poised to become a cornerstone for cricket development in the region and will serve as the foundation for an ambitious Youth Development Program. This initiative is designed to nurture young athletic talent, focusing on boys from the age of ten upwards.

    The executive team of Somerset Sports Club has extended its sincere appreciation to all donors and supporters who made these multifaceted efforts possible, reaffirming a steadfast commitment to fostering holistic community growth through the unifying power of sport and compassionate outreach.

  • Children enjoy Sheraton Mall Christmas cheer with support from RUBIS

    Children enjoy Sheraton Mall Christmas cheer with support from RUBIS

    For the 27th consecutive year, the cherished Christmas Cheer Programme at Sheraton Mall has illuminated the holiday season for disadvantaged Barbadian youth, with energy provider RUBIS continuing its longstanding partnership through a substantial financial contribution. The recent event on December 6 transformed the shopping center into a hub of festive excitement as approximately 100 carefully selected children experienced a day brimming with both entertainment and practical education. Beyond the typical holiday festivities, the program incorporated financial literacy components during shopping activities, providing valuable life skills alongside seasonal joy. The comprehensive experience included catered meals, cinematic entertainment at Olympus Theatres, and the priceless opportunity for children to select their own Christmas gifts. Karen Oliver, Head of Business Operations at Sheraton Mall, emphasized the profound community impact, stating that RUBIS’s $2,000 donation was instrumental in creating meaningful memories for participating families. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this partnership, recognizing its significant role in supporting community well-being and demonstrating corporate social responsibility during the holiday season and beyond.

  • Marina facility upgrades attract global yachting community

    Marina facility upgrades attract global yachting community

    Barbados has strategically positioned itself as a premier nautical tourism destination with the successful hosting of the Grand Large Yachting World Odyssey 2025 event. The recently completed expansion of Shallow Draught Marina welcomed 17 luxury yachts carrying 65 passengers and crew, marking a significant milestone in the island’s maritime infrastructure development.

    The $25 million redevelopment project, executed by Barbados Port Inc. (BPI) with support from Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), has fundamentally transformed the marina’s capabilities. The facility now boasts double its previous berthing capacity alongside comprehensive amenity upgrades including new retail spaces, modernized restroom facilities, expanded storage areas, and a revitalized fresh fish market.

    Engineering resilience was prioritized through the installation of an advanced wave attenuation system designed to protect vessels during adverse swell conditions. Additional enhancements scheduled for 2026 completion include a new fuel dock, convenience store, restaurant, and coffee shop, creating a fully integrated maritime hospitality complex.

    BPI CEO David Jean-Marie emphasized the strategic significance: “We’ve created a facility that sets the stage for unforgettable journeys. This event signals our readiness with world-class infrastructure and services for international visitors seeking nautical adventures.” He highlighted the seamless clearance process achieved through collaboration with Customs and Immigration departments via the new national Maritime Single Window system.

    Event manager Victor Taburiaux noted Barbados’ geographical advantage: “As the first island crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Barbados naturally serves as the ideal stopping point. Our positive 2021 experience combined with these substantial improvements made returning an obvious choice.”

    The arrival celebration featured authentic Bajan hospitality with traditional tuk band music, cultural attire, rum punch, and sorrel beverages. Captain Pablo Ussia of yacht ‘Kairos’, the rally’s first arrival, described his emotional Atlantic crossing: “This journey fulfilled a lifelong dream. Our 12-day passage proved perfectly timed with ideal weather conditions.” Many participants plan extended stays, with Captain Ussia anticipating a month-long island exploration and family reunion during the holiday season.

    BTMI’s Sports Manager Kamal Springer confirmed the event validates Barbados’ capacity to host major nautical events: “This testing opportunity demonstrates we can target more premium sailing events to attract higher-value visitors.” The extended stays of World Odyssey participants are expected to generate substantial economic impact while showcasing Barbados’ transformed capabilities as a leading Caribbean yachting destination.

  • Antigua Works Ministry Recaps 2025 Road Projects, Signals Expansion in 2026

    Antigua Works Ministry Recaps 2025 Road Projects, Signals Expansion in 2026

    Antigua & Barbuda’s Ministry of Works has characterized 2025 as a year of exceptionally intense infrastructure development, with comprehensive road, curb, and drainage enhancement projects continuing across numerous communities throughout December. In its year-end review, the ministry reported that construction operations proceeded at a consistent and vigorous pace during the final month, attributing this sustained delivery to the collaborative efforts of its internal teams, external contracting partners, and allied government agencies.

    Looking forward to 2026, the ministry has announced ambitious plans to significantly amplify the scale of community road works. This expansion will be facilitated by two major capital investments: the commissioning of a new crusher unit at the Public Works Quarry and the installation of three additional cement storage silos at the government’s concrete processing plant. Ministry officials emphasized that these strategic infrastructural upgrades are designed to concurrently bolster both the national road construction agenda and public housing initiatives.

    Substantial advancements were also reported on key transportation corridors, with the next phase of development on the critical All Saints Road moving forward alongside persistent enhancements to local community roadways. To mitigate public inconvenience, authorities confirmed that targeted traffic diversion protocols will be enacted in areas undergoing active construction.

    The ministry formally acknowledged the pivotal support received from Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Works Minister Maria Vanessa Browne, the Project Implementation Management Unit, lead contractor C.O. Williams, and partner agencies including APUA and ABTB, while also extending gratitude to the general public for their continued patience.

    Positioning the upcoming year as the next pivotal chapter in a sweeping national infrastructure transformation, the Ministry of Works concluded its update with New Year’s greetings to all residents.

  • Doctor urges lifestyle reset to ease NCD pressure on health system

    Doctor urges lifestyle reset to ease NCD pressure on health system

    Barbados confronts an escalating health crisis as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) surge, prompting urgent calls for systemic lifestyle reforms from medical leadership. Dr. Lynda Williams, President of the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners, has issued a stark warning about this growing epidemic, directly linking it to sedentary behaviors and poor nutritional habits.

    In an exclusive dialogue with Barbados TODAY, Dr. Williams confirmed a noticeable uptick in new NCD diagnoses, though comprehensive post-pandemic data remains under compilation. She identified obesity as the primary catalyst driving this wave of chronic illnesses, emphasizing that childhood-onset obesity leads to particularly severe long-term health consequences.

    The medical expert pinpointed two interconnected culprits: physical inactivity and unhealthy diets. Beyond merely contributing to weight gain, these factors independently trigger conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension. Dr. Williams expressed particular concern about rising pediatric obesity rates, noting that children’s dietary patterns are fundamentally shaped within household environments since they don’t control their own food choices.

    Critiquing the traditional Barbadian diet as excessively starchy and laden with saturated fats and sugars, Dr. Williams advocated for robust policy interventions. She endorsed existing measures like sugar taxes but emphasized the critical need for clearer nutritional labeling and improved access to affordable healthy foods. The physician also highlighted intergenerational behavioral patterns, observing that children typically emulate their parents’ sedentary lifestyles and dietary preferences.

    Her prescription for change includes family-oriented solutions: reducing screen time, increasing outdoor activities, and reviving traditional practices like home gardening. Dr. Williams stressed that active living not only improves physical health but also enhances mental wellbeing. She called for urban planning that prioritizes green spaces and exercise-friendly environments to combat diabetes and hypertension rates.

    Looking toward 2026, the medical association president voiced alarm about children consuming primarily fast food diets, warning that excessive salt and sugar intake bodes poorly for the nation’s future health. Her urgent appeal for the new year emphasizes conscious decisions to increase movement, improve nutrition, and model healthier lifestyles for younger generations. While acknowledging the role of schools, Dr. Williams ultimately asserted that effective change requires comprehensive parent education, potentially through nationally coordinated parenting classes.

  • Govt funding boost to drive major youth council expansion

    Govt funding boost to drive major youth council expansion

    In a landmark development for youth empowerment, the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) has secured a transformative financial commitment from the government that will more than double its annual funding starting fiscal year 2026/27. This substantial increase in subvention marks what Council President Caleb Brathwaite characterizes as a \”special turning point\” for youth development initiatives across the nation.\n\nFor decades, the organization has operated under significant financial constraints that limited its ability to fully execute its mandate. Despite being nearly as old as Barbados’ independence, the council has consistently faced resource limitations across successive administrations. \”For many years, one of the council’s greatest challenges has been financial—quite simply, the resources needed to execute projects and sustain the organization,\” Brathwaite acknowledged.\n\nThe new funding injection will enable an ambitious expansion of programs and services targeting Barbadians aged 18 to 35. Strategic initiatives include the launch of a digital discount card program in partnership with corporate Barbados, establishment of formal apprenticeship programs with established businesses, enhanced support for youth groups, expansion of paid internship opportunities, and creation of structured platforms for youth to voice ideas and concerns.\n\nBrathwaite emphasized the council’s ongoing commitment to its motto of \”building youth and developing country,\\” noting that even amid previous financial and technical challenges throughout 2025, the BYDC maintained its development mandate. Through initiatives like Project Move Up, the corporate internship program, the council provided placements for dozens of young people, certified over 50 youth leaders with Commonwealth support, assisted struggling youth groups and individuals, contributed to youth-focused policy development, and engaged in regional and international youth development efforts.\n\n\”This investment will allow us to create greater impact: young people looking out for young people, young people solving young people’s challenges, and young people actively contributing to youth development,\” Brathwaite stated, expressing confidence that the enhanced resources will finally enable the organization to fulfill its potential in serving Barbados’ youth population.

  • Winter wonder: Hotels near full as visitor numbers surge

    Winter wonder: Hotels near full as visitor numbers surge

    Barbados’ tourism industry is demonstrating unprecedented strength as it approaches 2026, with hospitality establishments throughout the island reporting exceptional occupancy levels and robust advance reservations for the upcoming winter period. This surge indicates revitalized confidence in one of the nation’s pivotal economic sectors.

    According to Javon Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), numerous properties are already experiencing 90-100% occupancy rates for the 2025-26 season. “Our BHTA members are reporting occupancies in the high 90 percent range, with several properties at complete capacity and strong performance projected through early January,” Griffith stated during New Year celebrations.

    The tourism leader characterized this development as an extraordinary commencement to the season and a definitive indicator of enhanced commercial activity across the sector. Griffith noted that Barbados is witnessing remarkably vigorous beginnings to the winter season, with tangible energy evident throughout the island. Evidence of this surge includes consistently elevated hotel occupancies, restaurants operating at maximum capacity, and vehicle rental companies reporting fully depleted inventories.

    During the association’s fourth quarterly general meeting at Sandals Royal Barbados earlier this month, Griffith revealed that Barbados welcomed 582,710 stay-over visitors between January and October this year, representing a 5.4% increase from the 553,229 visitors recorded during the corresponding period in the previous year.

    Statistical data indicates that hotel occupancy averaged 66% from January to October, while the average daily rate increased by 12.5% and revenue per available room surged by 15.2% year-over-year.

    Griffith emphasized that improvements are visibly manifested in activities across Barbados. The palpable rhythm of the season is evident through bustling thoroughfares, dynamic dining establishments, and a rejuvenated sense of momentum that directly translates into employment opportunities, business operations, and confidence throughout various community sectors.

    The growth trajectory extends beyond returning visitors to include significant numbers of first-time travelers, particularly from the United States and continental Europe. This diversification reflects the effectiveness of expanded air transportation options and enhanced connectivity facilitated through strategic initiatives by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

    The BHTA chairman emphasized that increased visitor interest and tourist arrivals demonstrate substantial industry expansion and fortified market partnerships. This augmented accessibility is broadening Barbados’ market reach, strengthening commercial alliances, and helping maintain destination demand.

    While celebrating these exceptional early-season results, Griffith stressed the imperative of sustaining quality connections with partners and maintaining elevated service standards. He highlighted the necessity of preserving the quality of the Barbados experience, ensuring seamless visitor journeys, and providing businesses with essential operational support during peak periods.

    Griffith concluded with optimistic projections: “This season is already proving to be a positive signal for the wider economy, and we are optimistic about what it can deliver for Barbados in the months ahead.”

  • Students Celebrated at 2025 World Food Day Poster Competition Awards

    Students Celebrated at 2025 World Food Day Poster Competition Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda’s future food security champions were celebrated at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy’s (MOALFBE) inaugural World Food Day Poster Competition Awards Ceremony on December 30th. The event, held at the Fisheries Conference Room, spotlighted young creative talents addressing critical national issues through artistic expression.

    Mrs. Denise Matthias-Thomas, Principal Assistant Secretary, set the tone by emphasizing the Ministry’s foundational belief in early education’s role in building resilient food systems. “Our young people are indispensable partners in crafting a food-secure future for our nation,” she stated, highlighting the strategic integration of agriculture, fisheries, and environmental education.

    The competition, conceptualized by Communications Head Mrs. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, engaged government primary and secondary schools with the 2025 World Food Day theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.” Students translated complex concepts of sustainable agriculture, fisheries, and blue economy principles into visually compelling artworks that demonstrated remarkable conceptual understanding.

    Despite being a pilot initiative with participation from three institutions—All Saints Secondary School, Sir Novelle Richards Academy, and Simon Bolivar Primary School—the quality of entries exceeded expectations. Judging criteria encompassed theme alignment, creative originality, message clarity, national relevance, and visual impact, with Mr. Gregory Bailey, Director of Agriculture, presenting participation certificates to all young artists.

    Top honors were awarded to Shaniyah Francis (T.N. Kirnon Primary) in the primary category, while Gabriella Eusebe claimed first place in the secondary division from All Saints Secondary School, followed by schoolmates Keairra Smith (second) and J’Shorna Appleton from Sir Novelle Richards Academy (third). Winners received gift certificates alongside their placement awards.

    The ceremony concluded with Ms. Emerald David’s vote of thanks, acknowledging collaborative efforts across ministry leadership, educators, parents, and organizers. “These students remind us why youth engagement remains fundamental to sustainable development,” she noted, before a photographic showcase captured the intersection of artistic achievement and agricultural innovation.

  • Private sector urged to stay resilient in 2026

    Private sector urged to stay resilient in 2026

    In a comprehensive year-end address, Barbados Private Sector Association (BPSA) Chairman James Clarke delivered a dual message of cautious optimism and urgent preparedness for the coming year. The prominent business leader emphasized that Barbados’ economic stability during global uncertainties will depend heavily on the private sector’s adaptive capacity and collaborative spirit.

    Clarke reaffirmed the business community’s steadfast commitment to national development objectives outlined in the Mission Barbados framework. He highlighted ongoing cooperative efforts with government authorities to implement essential reforms, particularly through Business Barbados initiatives and operational enhancements at the Bridgetown Port. These structural improvements, he noted, are fundamental for increasing productivity, reducing operational expenses, and strengthening the international competitiveness of Barbadian enterprises.

    The BPSA chairman issued sobering warnings about multiple external threats, citing escalating geopolitical conflicts both regionally and internationally alongside increasing vulnerabilities to climate-related disruptions. Clarke stressed that business continuity planning must evolve beyond theoretical documents to regularly tested protocols, noting that organizational resilience has become critical for long-term viability in the face of potential crises.

    Regarding economic projections, Clarke revealed a significant discrepancy between official forecasts and current indicators. While the BERT 3.0 framework anticipates 5% growth for 2026, real-time data suggests expansion closer to 2.7%. Achieving the higher target, he cautioned, would require substantial effort and continued cultivation of a business-friendly environment that encourages cross-sector diversification.

    Although construction and tourism remain primary economic drivers, Clarke expressed optimism about growth potential in agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, and small business enterprises. He additionally addressed contemporary operational challenges, including adaptive responses to regulatory changes, escalating cybersecurity threats, and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on business processes.

    The BPSA will meticulously monitor how minimum wage increases and persistent inflation affect business sustainability and living costs. Beyond economic matters, Clarke emphasized the private sector’s vital role in addressing social challenges, specifically identifying gun violence reduction, substance abuse prevention, non-communicable disease management, and mental health advocacy as priority areas for corporate social responsibility initiatives, particularly those focused on youth development.

  • Government to Open 2026 With National Service of Thanksgiving and Prayer

    Government to Open 2026 With National Service of Thanksgiving and Prayer

    The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda will inaugurate the new year of 2026 with its customary National Service of Thanksgiving and Prayer, reinforcing a cherished tradition dedicated to fostering national solidarity and contemplative gratitude. Scheduled for the morning of Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 9:00 AM, the event will be hosted at the St. John’s Pentecostal House of Restoration Ministries, situated on Lauchland Benjamin Drive.

    This significant gathering is set to draw a distinguished assembly of national leaders and citizens alike. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, alongside his Cabinet ministers and senior government officials, will be in attendance. The service is organized in collaboration with Bishop Stephen Andrews and the congregation of the hosting church, underscoring a partnership between the state and religious institutions. The event symbolizes a collective moment of pause at the year’s dawn, encouraging societal harmony and spiritual reflection among the populace.