Carib Scope

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  • Portugal signs €24 million deal to supply patrol ships to Dominican Republic

    Portugal signs €24 million deal to supply patrol ships to Dominican Republic

    LISBON – In a significant bilateral defense agreement, Portugal will supply the Dominican Republic with four Tejo-class multipurpose patrol vessels in a transaction valued at €24 million. The Portuguese Ministry of Defense confirmed the arrangement on Thursday, highlighting its strategic importance for maritime security in the Caribbean region.

    The formal signing ceremony is scheduled for Friday at the historic São João Baptista Fort, with Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo and Dominican Defense Minister Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre presiding over the event. The pact extends beyond a simple vessel transfer, incorporating a comprehensive capability package designed to ensure long-term operational effectiveness.

    This holistic program encompasses maintenance and modernization support, ammunition and spare parts supply, complete technical documentation, and specialized training for both crew members and managerial staff. The initiative aims to fully integrate the ships into the Dominican Navy’s operational framework, enhancing its maritime surveillance and response capabilities.

    Delivery will occur in phased intervals, beginning with the first vessel within 12 months after concluding logistical preparations. Subsequent ships will follow at 20, 30, and 40-month milestones respectively, ensuring a structured transition.

    The Tejo-class patrol ships measure approximately 50 meters in length with a displacement of 345 tons. These versatile platforms have served in the Portuguese Navy since 2016, performing critical functions including maritime patrol, territorial waters monitoring, search and rescue operations, and overall maritime security missions. Their proven design offers the Dominican Republic reliable multi-role capabilities for safeguarding its coastal interests.

  • Young entrepreneurs blend business with giving back

    Young entrepreneurs blend business with giving back

    A new generation of business leaders in Barbados is redefining entrepreneurship by embedding social responsibility directly into their commercial DNA. Through the Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation’s (BEF) flagship youth program, dozens of student entrepreneurs are systematically channeling profits and talents toward charitable causes, demonstrating that commercial success and community contribution can be powerfully intertwined.

    Celeste Foster, Programs Director at BEF, observes a remarkable trend among participants: “There remains a high interest in young persons not only pursuing entrepreneurial ventures but also donating their profits to charities.” This sentiment was prominently displayed during the foundation’s tenth annual charity event, sponsored by Scotiabank and held at the Sky Mall conference rooms, where students showcased businesses built on philanthropic principles.

    The program’s innovative framework requires participants to contribute through three distinct dimensions: time, talent, and treasure. This holistic approach reinforces that corporate citizenship extends far beyond financial donations alone. “Talent represents the goods or services that they offer, and treasure is a portion of the money that they make during the competition,” Foster explained.

    This year, 35 student-run enterprises made verified charitable contributions through either direct financial donations, service provisions, or volunteer efforts. The actual participation is believed to be even higher, as some contributions are reported retrospectively. To advance in the competition, making a charitable donation is mandatory—a requirement that ensures philanthropy becomes integrated into business operations from inception.

    The BEF’s decade-long initiative has successfully cultivated an entrepreneurial ecosystem that emphasizes practical business skills, mentorship, and real-world venture experience. Program activities typically culminate in competitions evaluating innovation, sustainability, and social impact.

    Most encouragingly, the program demonstrates significant lasting impact beyond the competition period. Approximately 80% of surveyed participants indicated intentions to continue their business ventures long after the formal program concludes. Social media monitoring reveals numerous businesses from previous cohorts that remain operational and successful, confirming that participants are effectively transitioning into sustainable employment through entrepreneurship.

  • Wereldleiders bespreken kansen en risico’s van AI op grote top in India

    Wereldleiders bespreken kansen en risico’s van AI op grote top in India

    The fourth Global Artificial Intelligence Summit in New Delhi witnessed significant diplomatic engagement as world leaders gathered to address the rapidly evolving AI landscape. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and French President Emmanuel Macron delivered keynote addresses emphasizing the need for global cooperation and equitable access to artificial intelligence technologies.

    Guterres issued a stark warning against allowing AI’s future to be determined by “the whims of a handful of billionaires,” advocating instead for a $3 billion global fund to ensure open access to AI systems. He emphasized that technological development must not exacerbate existing inequalities between developed and developing nations.

    French President Macron articulated Europe’s balanced approach, stating: “Europe is not a place of blind trust in regulation, but rather an ecosystem that fosters innovation and investment while maintaining safety standards.” He reaffirmed France’s commitment to collaborative rule-making with international partners including India.

    The summit, notable as the first global AI conference hosted by a developing nation, provided India with a platform to showcase its emerging AI capabilities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted recent launches of indigenous AI models, asserting that “AI solutions successful in India can be deployed globally.” He emphasized India’s belief in open systems and shared benefits, noting that millions of young Indian minds could contribute to making AI safer and more effective.

    A notable absence was Microsoft founder Bill Gates, who withdrew his participation shortly before his scheduled speech amid ongoing questions about his associations with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. A representative from the Gates Foundation attended in his place.

    Despite India’s rise to third place in Stanford University’s global AI competitiveness ranking, experts acknowledge the country still faces significant challenges in competing with AI superpowers the United States and China. The five-day conference, concluding Friday, continues to serve as a critical forum for discussing AI’s potential benefits while addressing its associated risks and ethical considerations.

  • Weekly “Fish Fry” Coming to North Front Street?

    Weekly “Fish Fry” Coming to North Front Street?

    The Belizean government is moving forward with plans to establish a vibrant fish market and weekly culinary event on North Front Street, as announced by Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler. This long-discussed initiative aims to create a dedicated space where both residents and tourists can converge to enjoy authentic local cuisine and immerse themselves in Belizean culture.

    Minister Mahler revealed that the concept was inspired by his international travels, particularly observations of fish markets in the United States. “Whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit local fish markets,” Mahler stated. “This exposure sparked the idea that Belize should develop its own premium fish market destination for people to experience.”

    The envisioned market will feature numerous small booths offering freshly caught seafood alongside traditional Belizean favorites. According to Mahler, visitors will be able to enjoy local specialties including fry jacks, flour tortillas, and beans at any time of day within the fish market environment.

    A distinctive component of the project will be the introduction of a weekly “fish fry” event, drawing inspiration from Caribbean traditions where communities gather around fried fish and local dishes accompanied by music and entertainment. While the minister expressed enthusiasm for the cultural and economic potential of the initiative, specific operational details and an official opening timeline remain undetermined at this stage.

  • Environment : Risk Management Actions Three-Year Operational Plan 2024-2027

    Environment : Risk Management Actions Three-Year Operational Plan 2024-2027

    Haiti has unveiled a comprehensive Three-Year Operational Plan (2024-2027) to address the nation’s escalating vulnerability to natural disasters and complex crises. This landmark initiative represents the first actionable framework derived from the National Disaster Risk Management Plan (2019-2030), emerging as the Caribbean nation faces increasingly frequent and overlapping environmental shocks that outpace community recovery efforts.

    The strategic blueprint, developed by Haiti’s National Disaster Risk Management System through its Permanent Secretariat and Directorate General of Civil Protection with international support, adopts a multi-hazard approach to safeguard vulnerable populations. With a sobering 7.2 INFORM risk index rating for 2024, the plan acknowledges that over 93% of Haiti’s territory and 96% of its population face exposure to at least two major hazards simultaneously, including hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, landslides, and droughts.

    This operational framework organizes disaster management around four strategic pillars: enhanced risk knowledge, improved risk governance, strategic risk investment and transfer mechanisms, and comprehensive preparedness and response systems. Unlike conventional development plans, this initiative focuses exclusively on integrating risk criteria into national planning while addressing all disaster management components from mitigation through recovery.

    The plan’s implementation will mobilize central government operational levels through specialized committees handling sectoral risk management and emergency response coordination via the National Emergency Operations Center. This coordinated approach becomes increasingly critical as Haiti’s deteriorating socio-economic conditions, including widespread armed violence and mass internal displacement, further exacerbate the population’s vulnerability to environmental threats.

    By adopting principles of gender equality, inclusion, human security, and good governance, the 2024-2027 plan aims to build collective and territorial resilience toward the 2030 vision of comprehensive protection for lives and property against Haiti’s multiple risk exposures.

  • GARFIN cancels BRAVIO betting company licence

    GARFIN cancels BRAVIO betting company licence

    Grenada’s financial regulatory body has terminated the operating license of the nation’s last remaining international betting company, marking the culmination of a multi-year legislative transformation. The Grenada Authority for the Regulation of Financial Institutions (GARFIN) officially revoked Bravio Ltd.’s authorization effective immediately, according to a notice published in the February 13, 2026 Government Gazette.

    The regulatory shift began in 2021 when the former New National Party administration repealed the International Betting Act Cap 151A, which had previously governed such operations. This legislative action was further reinforced in 2023 through the International Companies (Repeal Act) (Validation) Bill, enacted by the current Dickon Mitchell Administration.

    The 2023 legislation specifically addressed the validation status of international companies that had failed to meet statutory requirements for continued operation under the Companies Act, Chapter 58A following the revocation of the International Companies Act, Chapter 152. The bill established provisions for listed international companies to continue business operations in compliance with the updated regulatory framework.

    Executive Director Denis Felix of GARFIN formally announced the cancellation, citing Section 10 of the International Betting Act Cap. 151A as the legal basis for the action. The public notice advised citizens and potential business partners to acknowledge this regulatory development and adjust their dealings accordingly.

    This decisive action represents the final implementation of Grenada’s comprehensive restructuring of its international financial services regulatory environment, effectively closing the chapter on international betting operations within the country’s jurisdiction.

  • Selling Iguana? Be Ready to Pay Up $10K

    Selling Iguana? Be Ready to Pay Up $10K

    Authorities in Belize have implemented stringent measures to protect the native iguana population during its critical breeding period, imposing fines of up to $10,000 for individuals caught trafficking or possessing iguana meat. The annual closed season, which extends from February 1 through June 30, represents a vital conservation window designated by the Belize Forestry Department to ensure species survival.

    Victoria Chi, Chief Forest Officer, emphasized that this protective ban coincides with the reptiles’ most vulnerable biological phase when they are actively reproducing to replenish their numbers. “This timeframe specifically aligns with their breeding cycle, which unfortunately also coincides with peak consumer demand for egg-bearing iguanas,” Chi explained, highlighting the ecological rationale behind the seasonal restriction.

    While the Forestry Department doesn’t conduct direct population monitoring, it maintains an active Iguana Conservation Program in partnership with the San Ignacio Hotel. This initiative provides rehabilitation services for injured iguanas frequently recovered from illegal hunting operations, with recovered specimens eventually reintroduced to their natural habitats.

    Enforcement efforts will be significantly intensified through coordinated patrols with national police departments, particularly targeting known wildlife trafficking hotspots including La Democracia, Hattieville, and Sandhill intersections. Chi urged public compliance with the seasonal ban, stating: “This closure exists for important ecological reasons. We must collectively learn to respect these conservation measures.”

    The department encourages citizens to report suspected illegal hunting activities through the dedicated tip line 610-1524 to support enforcement operations during this critical conservation period.

  • St. Vincent authorities confirm missile strike on vessel in local waters

    St. Vincent authorities confirm missile strike on vessel in local waters

    KINGSTON, St. Vincent (CMC) — St. Vincent and the Grenadines authorities have officially verified that a missile struck a vessel within the nation’s exclusive economic zone last Friday, according to Coast Guard Commander Deon Henry. The confirmation came through eyewitness accounts from local fishermen who were operating near fish aggregating devices (FADs) approximately 45 miles southeast of St. Vincent.

    Commander Henry disclosed during a state media broadcast that the fishermen observed the missile impact while navigating toward fishing zone Number 5, where government-installed FADs attract marine life. The incident location places it squarely within St. Vincent’s maritime jurisdiction, 32 miles east of Canouan Island.

    In response to the security breach, the Coast Guard has intensified safety protocols for maritime workers, emphasizing the critical importance of filing detailed fishing plans, maintaining frequent communication with authorities and families, and using brightly colored vessels for enhanced visibility during potential search and rescue operations.

    National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock expressed profound disappointment that the United States government failed to provide prior notification or official communication regarding the military action in Vincentian waters. While acknowledging the nation’s limited military capacity, Leacock emphasized that sovereignty “is buttressed and ensured, not just by military might or the lack thereof” but through international legal frameworks and diplomatic respect.

    The minister adopted a measured diplomatic approach, recognizing the complex interdependence between the Caribbean nation and the United States, where substantial Vincentian diaspora communities reside. He characterized the relationship as needing “a level cordiality and respect for what they call the big brother in the north” while firmly maintaining that the nation “do not make ourselves a soft target to be taken for granted or disrespected.”

    Leacock simultaneously addressed narcotics trafficking concerns, warning citizens against handling drug parcels that might wash ashore and emphasizing collaboration with law enforcement agencies already strained by regional drug trade pressures. The government continues to await formal communication from US Southern Command regarding the incident while pursuing resolution through international legal channels.

  • UDP says Caye Caulker No Longer Safe

    UDP says Caye Caulker No Longer Safe

    The tranquil reputation of Belize’s Caye Caulker has been shattered by escalating violence, prompting urgent calls for enhanced security measures from concerned residents. At a recent press conference convened by UDP Senator Gabriel Zetina, community representative Samira Martinez delivered an emotional testimony about the island’s deteriorating safety conditions.

    Martinez, a long-time resident and member of the UDP Belize Rural South Team, revealed that the island’s transformation from peaceful haven to concerning crime hotspot has left families fearing for their children’s safety. “Caye Caulker used to be a safe zone where children could grow up in peace,” Martinez recounted. “This new generation will never experience the security we once took for granted.”

    The community advocate outlined specific demands including the permanent stationing of police officers on the island and the implementation of youth engagement programs. Martinez emphasized the vulnerability of young people, stating, “We need comprehensive programs that teach life skills and civic responsibility. Our youth are being targeted, and we must build harmonious relationships between police and community members.”

    These concerns follow a recent shooting incident that left one man injured and another in custody, highlighting the pressing need for intervention. The community’s appeal signals a critical juncture for the popular tourist destination as it struggles to balance its peaceful image with emerging security challenges.

  • Opposition Leader threatens lawsuit against Hot97 FM

    Opposition Leader threatens lawsuit against Hot97 FM

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has announced his intention to initiate legal proceedings against local radio station Hot 97 and its proprietor Luke Boyea regarding allegations concerning a land transaction involving his youngest son. The controversy emerged during broadcast discussions suggesting Gonsalves’ son, Storm Gonsalves, acquired 95 acres of private land in Spring, Bequia through corrupt practices during his father’s administration.

    Gonsalves, who served as head of government for 25 years before his Unity Labour Party’s electoral defeat in November 2025, vehemently denied any governmental involvement in the transaction. He revealed that while his administration had expressed interest in purchasing the property in 2017 through formal correspondence to the owner’s legal representative Errol Layne, the offer was declined at that time.

    The seasoned attorney clarified that the eventual sale occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic period, completely independent of government affairs. Gonsalves emphasized his complete dissociation from the transaction, stating he was unaware of his son’s purchase until after its completion. He issued a stern warning to the radio station owner, whom he identified as his second cousin, declaring, “You’re barking up the wrong tree… I have rights, you know. And you’re tackling a warrior.”

    Defending his 34-year-old son’s capabilities, Gonsalves described Storm as a risk-taking entrepreneur fully capable of defending his business decisions. Meanwhile, Boyea has publicly expressed confusion regarding the specific defamation claims, indicating he would await formal legal correspondence while maintaining skepticism about Gonsalves’ claimed unawareness of his son’s land acquisition.