Carib Scope

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  • Suriname mikt op sterkere regionale rol tijdens jubileumeditie Caricom-top

    Suriname mikt op sterkere regionale rol tijdens jubileumeditie Caricom-top

    Suriname is poised to enhance its regional standing during the landmark 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), scheduled from February 24-27 in Saint Kitts and Nevis. President Jennifer Simons will make her inaugural appearance at this annual gathering of Caribbean leaders, marking a significant diplomatic debut.

    According to Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva, Suriname will dispatch a compact yet highly functional seven-member delegation to the summit. This meeting not only commemorates CARICOM’s golden anniversary but also serves as the first direct introductory platform for President Simons to engage with her regional counterparts.

    Minister Bouva emphasized to the Communication Service Suriname that participation holds critical importance amid rapidly shifting global geopolitical dynamics. He articulated that robust regional cooperation represents Suriname’s strategic pathway to fortifying its international position.

    The minister asserted that regional integration is essential for effectively responding to global developments in trade, security, and climate challenges. ‘The world is in constant motion. Within this dynamic environment, Suriname must chart its course collaboratively with the region,’ Bouva stated.

    A central focus for the Surinamese delegation will be deepening regional integration, particularly through enhanced Caribbean connectivity. This includes facilitating smoother transport networks, trade mechanisms, and movement of people between member states.

    Bouva indicated the government intends to approach international challenges through more coordinated efforts. CARICOM collaboration, he noted, should contribute to greater economic resilience and more efficient management of transnational issues.

    The government also identifies substantial economic opportunities for Suriname within the region. CARICOM nations annually import billions of dollars worth of goods from outside the Caribbean. Thanks to its geographical positioning and agricultural potential, Suriname could assume a larger role in regional food security.

    Beyond economic cooperation, President Simons will advocate for the Caribbean as a zone of peace, stability, and sustainable development during the summit.

    The meeting additionally serves as preparatory groundwork for Suriname’s upcoming CARICOM chairmanship in 2027. Bouva characterized this first physical participation by Suriname’s new government as a crucial step toward strengthening relationships and aligning priorities in advance.

    ‘We will soon shoulder significant responsibility within the region. Therefore, we are already preparing to deliver optimal outcomes for both Suriname and CARICOM,’ Bouva concluded.

  • CARPHA joins regional policy gathering on digital health data

    CARPHA joins regional policy gathering on digital health data

    PORT OF SPAIN – A landmark regional conference has set the stage for a transformative digital health revolution across the Caribbean. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group, hosting the ONE Caribbean Connect Regional Policy Dialogue in Trinidad and Tobago, successfully convened a coalition of leading health and technology institutions to forge a unified path toward secure, cross-border health data exchange.

    The high-level dialogue brought together a powerful consortium of regional bodies, including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Delegations from seven Caribbean nations—The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and host Trinidad and Tobago—participated in intensive strategic planning sessions.

    Central to the discussions was the urgent need to establish interoperable digital health systems that can seamlessly share critical health information across national borders. This initiative builds upon the foundational work of the Pan-American Highway for Digital Health (PH4H), a collaborative framework established by the IDB and PAHO.

    CARPHA’s delegation, led by Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar, played a pivotal role in the proceedings. The agency demonstrated its advanced digital surveillance capabilities, particularly its real-time, integrated early warning and response surveillance systems (REIWSS), which are being implemented through a Pandemic Fund Grant with the IDB as a key partner.

    The conference yielded a major strategic outcome: the formal adoption of the ONE Caribbean Digital Health Roadmap Commitment. This comprehensive document outlines concrete priority actions across three critical domains: establishing robust governance structures, developing supportive legal and policy frameworks, and ensuring technical interoperability. The roadmap sets an ambitious target for the initiation of cross-national health data sharing by 2028.

    Technical expertise flowed from multiple directions throughout the event. IDB representatives facilitated crucial strategy sessions, while PAHO contributed specialized knowledge in digital health and surveillance systems. CARICOM provided valuable insights on regional digital transformation through its leadership in information and communication technology for development.

    The collective effort represents a significant leap forward in regional health cooperation, positioning the Caribbean to better respond to public health challenges through enhanced data-driven decision-making and coordinated outbreak response capabilities.

  • “Nora, A Belizean Musical”

    “Nora, A Belizean Musical”

    Six decades after the controversial execution of Nora Parham, her narrative is experiencing an international renaissance through an ambitious musical theater production. Two Belizean scholars based in the United States, Alysia Norales and Cameron Tillett, have dedicated five years to developing “Nora, A Belizean Musical,” which chronicles the life and tragic demise of Parham in 1963 British Honduras (modern-day Belize).

    The production emerges following Parham’s posthumous pardon and national recognition by the Belizean government in 2022, which revitalized national discourse concerning judicial equity and gender-based violence. The creative team positions their work as both historical reexamination and cultural diplomacy, asserting they are “taking Belize to the international stage through musical theatre.”

    Parham’s case remains a watershed moment in Belizean legal history. Convicted for the death of her police officer partner, contemporary reinterpretations suggest she was a victim of domestic abuse who faced an unjust judicial process. Historical accounts indicate her all-male jury pleaded for clemency, while public protests and petitions prompted intervention attempts by then-political leader George Price. These appeals were ultimately rejected by British Governor Peter Stallard.

    The musical endeavors to transform Parham’s legacy from historical footnote to powerful symbol of resilience and judicial reform. Through theatrical storytelling, the creators aim to illuminate enduring issues of gender inequality and colonial justice systems while honoring a significant chapter in Central American history.

  • Tyrone Jarvis remanded into custody in Bozel murder case

    Tyrone Jarvis remanded into custody in Bozel murder case

    A prominent Dominican businessman has been formally charged in connection with the fatal shooting of an American tourist during the island’s Carnival celebrations, marking a serious incident that has drawn attention to violent crime in the Caribbean nation.

    Tyron Jarvis, a 40-year-old co-proprietor of TJ’s Enterprises residing at 83 Hillsborough Street in Roseau/Massacre, was arraigned before a magistrate in Roseau on Friday, February 20, 2026. The court formally read murder charges against him for the death of 47-year-old Arthur Bozel, a resident of Goodwill, Dominica, who was living in the United States and returning home for vacation during the festive season.

    Judicial proceedings revealed that Jarvis was not permitted to enter a plea during this initial hearing, as murder is classified as an indictable offense within Dominica’s legal system, requiring future proceedings in a higher court. The magistrate subsequently ordered Jarvis remanded into custody at the Dominica State Prison until his next court appearance, which has been scheduled for May 2026.

    According to official reports from the Dominica Police Force, the incident occurred on the night of Sunday, February 15th, on Independence Street in the capital city of Roseau. Preliminary investigations indicate Bozel was shot by Jarvis during an altercation.

    The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bozel’s death. Authorities are examining the events that led to the shooting of the US-based Dominican national, who was visiting his home country to participate in the annual Carnival festivities.

    The case has garnered significant local attention, highlighting concerns about public safety during major national events and the judicial handling of serious violent crimes. The adjournment of the case until May allows time for the prosecution to prepare its evidence for trial.

  • Nine proposals submitted to build cooking gas bottling plant

    Nine proposals submitted to build cooking gas bottling plant

    Guyana’s energy sector is witnessing significant international investment interest as nine competitive proposals have been submitted for the construction of a major cooking gas bottling plant. The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) confirmed the submissions from a diverse consortium of local and international energy companies.

    The bidding consortium includes Guygas, which has formed strategic partnerships with Denmark’s Makeen Energy and India’s RAMCO Industries. Other prominent contenders include Massy Gas Products, SOL Guyana Inc, and RUBIS Guyana Inc. International participation extends to Houston-based LINDSAYCA, currently engaged in constructing the 300-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant and NGL facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

    Additional joint venture proposals have been submitted by Divyan International Inc, along with a collaborative effort between Gate Ventures and Consulting Guyana Inc with Canada’s Propak Systems Limited and Makeen Energy. Further international interest comes from Colombia’s Gas Zipa SASESP partnering with Fix It Depot and Standard Energy Company, and India’s ILF Consulting Engineering Inc. collaborating with Mahatma Phule Renewable and Infrastructure Technology Limited.

    Winston Brassington, Project Lead for the Gas-to-Energy Project, revealed during the Guyana Energy Conference that the proposed facility is projected to bottle approximately 63 million gallons of cooking fuel annually, representing a substantial advancement in the country’s energy infrastructure development.

  • Airport Authority unveils new and expanded Ground Transportation hub at Terminal B

    Airport Authority unveils new and expanded Ground Transportation hub at Terminal B

    Antigua and Barbuda has inaugurated a comprehensively redeveloped ground transportation complex at VC Bird International Airport, marking a significant infrastructure enhancement for the Caribbean nation’s tourism sector. The transformed facility, formerly known as the old terminal and now designated Terminal B, officially opened Thursday with ceremonial remarks from Permanent Secretary Sean Cenac of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.

    The newly operational hub centralizes previously fragmented services, housing four major car rental agencies—Bigs Car Rental, TG Car Rental, RL Car Rental, and Chase Car Rental—collectively offering a fleet of 315 vehicles. Additionally, nine tour operators and destination management companies now operate from the consolidated space, eliminating previous terminal congestion and improving operational efficiency.

    Cenac, representing Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, emphasized the strategic importance of the project, stating that tourism remains the primary economic driver for the nation, supporting employment, entrepreneurship, and foreign exchange earnings. He characterized the investment as critical to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s competitive position in the Caribbean tourism market.

    The upgraded facility incorporates modern amenities including a live flight information display system for real-time arrival monitoring and an extended public address system already operational in the main terminal. ABAA Interim CEO Miguel Southwell detailed the operational improvements, noting the transformation addresses long-standing challenges of scattered services and passenger congestion.

    Shakkia Carlos of TG Car Rental, speaking on behalf of rental operators, described the development as emblematic of ‘continued growth, collaboration, and commitment to excellence.’ The project was executed under the direction of ABAA Board Chairman Rolston Potter, with co-project management by Business Development Manager Geneva George. Director of Operations Joseph Samuel and Maintenance Manager Orlan Hurst led the construction team, supported by the Authority’s IT and Accounts departments.

  • Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investments

    Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investments

    The Government of Belize has formally designated Christopher Coye as the nation’s Special Envoy for Finance and Investments through an official proclamation in the Belize Gazette. This strategic appointment, formally executed by Governor-General Froyla Tzalam on February 9, 2026, carries retroactive effect from January 1st and establishes a four-year mandate.

    The appointment confers upon Coye full authority to represent Belize’s governmental interests in all financial and investment-related matters. The published instrument specifically directs all relevant authorities to provide comprehensive operational support and grant necessary privileges to facilitate his duties. Coye will operate under the jurisdictional umbrella of the Ministry of Finance, Investment, Economic Transformation, Civil Aviation and E-Governance.

    This development follows Coye’s September 2025 resignation from his position as Minister of State within the Finance Ministry. His departure from the cabinet occurred merely seven months after rejoining Prime Minister Briceño’s administration following the People’s United Party’s decisive electoral victory. Despite stepping down from executive responsibilities, Coye maintained his legislative role as a government senator while returning to private professional practice prior to this new diplomatic assignment.

  • Family Mourns 38-Year-Old Killed in Big Creek Road Accident

    Family Mourns 38-Year-Old Killed in Big Creek Road Accident

    The Stann Creek District is reeling from a tragic vehicular incident that resulted in the death of 38-year-old Brandon Alex Coleman on Thursday afternoon. According to preliminary police reports, the fatal collision occurred on Big Creek Road when a Ford Explorer, operated by 65-year-old Jes Christian Bech of Monkey River Road, allegedly turned directly into the path of Coleman’s motorcycle.

    Emergency responders transported Coleman to the Independence Polyclinic before transferring him to the Southern Regional Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have detained Bech as investigations into the precise circumstances surrounding the accident continue.

    The Coleman family is experiencing profound grief following the sudden loss. Angelina Coleman, the victim’s younger sister, recounted receiving the devastating news while at work. “He had just dropped off a relative at work and was returning home,” she shared emotionally. “This pain is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in my life.”

    Family members revealed that Coleman had been actively working on his younger brother’s house, with plans to complete the project so his sibling could move into his own home. “All his plans were abruptly cut short,” Angelina noted, adding that Coleman leaves behind a daughter he “loved immensely.”

    The family has expressed additional distress over what they describe as insufficient communication from investigating authorities. “As of now, no police officials have visited our residence or provided any formal notification to the family,” Angelina stated.

    Those who knew Coleman remembered him as a perpetually positive influence. “My brother was not a problem-maker—he was the sweetest person,” his sister reflected. “He consistently brought smiles to everyone around him and maintained a happy mindset, always striving to ensure the happiness of those in his presence.”

  • Flow Announces Second Winner in “Riddim & Rewards” Promotion

    Flow Announces Second Winner in “Riddim & Rewards” Promotion

    Telecommunications provider Flow has unveiled the second grand prize recipient in its ongoing ‘Riddim & Rewards’ customer appreciation campaign. The promotion, designed to reward subscriber loyalty with a taste of Caribbean musical culture, has successfully generated its latest victor.

    The initiative seamlessly blends digital connectivity with regional entertainment, offering participants not just a chance at lucrative prizes but also an immersive cultural experience. This strategic marketing effort underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing customer engagement beyond conventional service provision.

    The ‘Riddim & Rewards’ program operates on an entry mechanism accessible to Flow’s existing client base, creating an added-value proposition for subscribers. The campaign’s structure demonstrates how telecom operators are increasingly leveraging culturally resonant promotions to strengthen brand affinity and customer retention in competitive markets.

    Industry analysts observe that such promotions represent a growing trend where service providers integrate local cultural elements into customer reward programs. This approach effectively differentiates brands while celebrating regional heritage through corporate initiatives.

    The announcement of this second winner maintains momentum for the ongoing promotion, with anticipation building for subsequent prize distributions. Flow has indicated continued commitment to the program through its scheduled duration, suggesting additional opportunities for subscriber participation and reward acquisition.

  • Venezuela verleent amnestie, honderden politieke gevangenen kunnen vrijkomen

    Venezuela verleent amnestie, honderden politieke gevangenen kunnen vrijkomen

    In a significant policy reversal, Venezuela’s acting president has enacted sweeping amnesty legislation that could result in the release of hundreds of politicians, activists, and legal professionals detained for political reasons. This move represents an implicit acknowledgment of what the government had denied for decades: the existence of political prisoners within its penal system.

    The newly signed law, ratified on Thursday, effectively overturns years of official denial and marks another strategic shift by the administration following the January 3rd military incursion by American forces in Caracas and the subsequent abduction of President Nicolás Maduro.

    Under the provisions of this legislation, opposition figures, human rights defenders, journalists, and other individuals targeted by the ruling party over the past 27 years may qualify for release. However, families awaiting the freedom of their relatives express skepticism, noting that Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has previously failed to fulfill promises regarding prisoner releases. Many have maintained vigil outside detention centers for weeks.

    According to the Venezuelan Prison Rights Organization Foro Penal, 448 releases have been documented since January 8, though estimates suggest over 600 individuals remain detained for political reasons.

    The amnesty law covers involvement in political protests and “violent actions” occurring during the brief 2002 coup attempt, as well as during demonstrations or electoral processes during specific months dating back to 2004. While the legislation doesn’t explicitly specify which offenses qualify, earlier drafts included incitement to illegal activities, resistance to authorities, rebellion, and treason.

    Notably excluded are those convicted of “military rebellion” for their involvement in 2019 events. The law also doesn’t provide for property restitution, reverse suspensions from public office imposed for political reasons, or lift sanctions against media outlets.

    The opposition remains divided on the legislation. Nora Bracho, an opposition politician, described it during parliamentary debates as “imperfect but undoubtedly a major step forward for reconciliation in Venezuela.” Conversely, Pedro Urruchurtu, international relations director for opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado, criticized the measure as “not just invalid and unlawful, but a trap to buy time and re-victimize the persecuted.”

    Since Maduro’s abduction, U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Rodríguez while downplaying potential support for opposition forces. Rodríguez has made several concessions to the U.S., including halting oil deliveries to Cuba and supporting legislation to open the state oil industry to foreign companies. The United States has indicated it will monitor revenues from Venezuelan oil sales until a “representative government” is established.