Carib Scope

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  • Cuba crisis warning

    Cuba crisis warning

    A coalition of eight former Caribbean Community (CARICOM) heads of government has issued a forceful condemnation of United States policy toward Cuba, characterizing recent executive actions as “inhumane weapons of mass destruction” that are deepening a humanitarian crisis on the island nation.

    The distinguished group, comprising former presidents and prime ministers from across the region, specifically targeted the Trump Administration’s January 2026 executive order that imposes punitive tariffs on nations providing petroleum to Cuba. This policy has exacerbated existing fuel shortages that have crippled transportation, healthcare, and basic services for Cuba’s 11 million citizens.

    Among the signatories are former Guyanese President Donald Ramotar, along with former prime ministers Freundel Stuart (Barbados), Edison James (Dominica), Tillman Thomas (Grenada), Bruce Golding and PJ Patterson (Jamaica), Dr. Kenny Anthony (St. Lucia), and Dr. Keith Rowley (Trinidad & Tobago).

    The former leaders framed their statement within historical context, recalling the landmark 1972 decision by four Caribbean nations to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba in defiance of hemispheric isolation policies. They highlighted Cuba’s five decades of solidarity with the region through medical assistance, educational scholarships, and disaster relief provided without expectation of reciprocity.

    The statement emphatically rejected the doctrine that “might makes right,” arguing that economic warfare waged over ideological differences is as morally reprehensible as military aggression. The leaders endorsed findings by UN human rights experts that the US executive order violates international law and called for immediate repeal of measures undermining Cuba’s access to essential energy resources.

    In parallel developments, an international humanitarian initiative dubbed ‘Nuestra America Convoy to Cuba’ is preparing to deliver critically needed supplies to the island via air, land, and sea routes starting March 21. The coalition, which includes Swedish activist Greta Thunberg among its supporters, aims to circumvent the US blockade with shipments of food, medicine, and essential goods.

    Mexico has already demonstrated regional solidarity by dispatching aid ships from Veracruz in February, while maintaining diplomatic channels with Washington regarding the oil embargo. This emerging pattern of international resistance signals growing regional determination to address what Caribbean leaders term an unprecedented humanitarian challenge.

  • Race day review for Wednesday, February 18, 2026

    Race day review for Wednesday, February 18, 2026

    The 2026 Ash Wednesday Trophy, a prestigious six-and-a-half-furlong race, concluded a dynamic 10-race program with notable performances and unexpected outcomes. Despite being installed as the 9-5 favorite, Supremasi, ridden by two-time champion Raddesh Roman for trainer Anthony Nunes, failed to contend, finishing without a notable chance.

    In a display of superior class, the American-bred Wall Street Trader (5-2) dominated the field, securing a victory by nearly four lengths. The 2019 champion jockey Christopher Mamdeen piloted the Rowan R Mathie-trained horse to a commanding win.

    The race meeting showcased a series of impressive triumphs. Jockey Robert Halledeen, following a 67-1 longshot ride earlier in the week, opened the card with a win aboard the 6-1 bet Bobbytwobad. The five-year-old chestnut, owned and trained by Robert French, led prominently throughout the five-and-a-half furlong gallop to win by over two lengths.

    Trainer Peter-John Parsard emerged as a dominant force, securing a remarkable triple victory. His success began with US-bred Miss Marabella (8-5), guided by 2022 champion Dane Dawkins to a 3.5-length victory over the even-money favorite Bowmore (USA) in the five-furlong straight course. Parsard’s second win came with Bangarang (5-2), where visiting former three-time champion Anthony Thomas demonstrated exceptional skill to secure a head victory. Parsard completed his triple with Midnight Galaxy (1-5), who delivered a 13-length canter under two-time champion Shane Ellis in the seven-and-a-half furlong event.

    The meeting wasn’t without controversy. The Nunes-Roman team found redemption in race three when their Canadian-bred Miss Grove (4-1) was awarded victory after the initial winner, Danka, was disqualified for interference in the final stretch.

    Additional notable performances included Tevin Foster’s riding double aboard Minnehaha (3-5) and Summer Palace (6-5), the latter completing a stable one-two finish for trainer Jason DaCosta. Spencer Chung earned the Training Feat Award for preparing seven-year-old General Chief to a dominant 9-length victory, while Anthony Thomas received the Jockeyship Award for his exceptional ride on Bangarang.

  • Floyd Green goes shopping at ‘Curry’

    Floyd Green goes shopping at ‘Curry’

    Jamaica’s agricultural industry is demonstrating a remarkable resurgence as produce prices experience a significant downward trend across local markets. This encouraging development was highlighted during Agriculture Minister Floyd Green’s feature appearance on the Jamaica Observer’s popular Market Bag video series, filmed at Kingston’s historic Coronation Market.

    Minister Green joined host Carlysia Ramdeen to document the market’s vibrant activity and discuss strategic government initiatives that facilitated the sector’s robust recovery from Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact last October. The weekly program, which tracks agricultural commodity prices nationwide, revealed substantial price reductions including tomatoes at approximately $50 per pound, carrots at $100, and cabbage priced around $150.

    During the market tour, Minister Green specifically commended Jamaican farmers for their extraordinary resilience and dedication amid challenging circumstances. “What we are witnessing represents the tangible outcome of combined efforts—strategic seed distribution, enhanced water management systems, operational improvements, and most importantly, the determination of exceptional farmers committed to restoring Jamaica’s food security,” Green emphasized.

    The agriculture minister detailed how coordinated intervention programs involving seed distribution, irrigation support, and technical assistance enabled farmers to rapidly rebuild production capacity following natural disasters. This comprehensive approach has not only stabilized supply chains but also created favorable conditions for price normalization that benefits consumers nationwide.

    The latest Market Bag episode documenting this agricultural recovery premieres Friday at 6:30 PM on YouTube and social media platforms, providing consumers with transparent market information and celebrating the restoration of Jamaica’s local food production capabilities.

  • 2026 Audi SQ5: The very definition of Q-ship

    2026 Audi SQ5: The very definition of Q-ship

    Audi’s 2026 SQ5 Sportback stands as a definitive testament to the brand’s commitment to evolutionary excellence, fully actualizing the potential of its groundbreaking Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture. This model masterfully navigates the delicate balance between honoring its traditional design ethos and embracing a forward-looking technological identity.

    Exterior design philosophy prioritizes sophisticated differentiation over overt aggression. Updates are intentionally nuanced, featuring distinctive alloy wheels, select aerodynamic body enhancements, and carbon fiber side mirrors. These elements provide clear visual demarcation from the standard Q5 lineup while maintaining an aura of executive refinement suitable for any corporate environment.

    The interior experience undergoes a radical transformation through the PPC framework, achieving unprecedented levels of space and luxury. The cabin immerses occupants in a world of premium materials, including extensive leather upholstery with contrast stitching, Alcantara accents, and carbon fiber trim. Technological dominance is established through the triple-screen Audi MMI panoramic display, featuring a 14.5-inch central touchscreen and 10.9-inch front passenger display with crystal-clear graphics and intuitive voice control. The Bang & Olufsen audio system, advanced ambient lighting with functional feedback, and smart tri-zone climate control represent just a portion of the extensive feature set.

    Performance credentials remain extraordinary despite its practical SUV form factor. The turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine generates 367 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SQ5 Sportback from 0-62 mph in a breathtaking 4.5 seconds with launch control engaged. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system, coupled with precisely tuned suspension and chassis components, delivers exceptional stability and confidence across diverse driving conditions—from urban traffic to high-speed autobahn running and light off-road adventures. The seven-speed S tronic transmission operates with seamless precision, while advanced driver assistance systems enable near-autonomous operation in congested scenarios.

    The 2026 SQ5 Sportback ultimately delivers a complete premium package that successfully merges practical SUV functionality with sports car performance and cutting-edge technology, establishing a new benchmark in the luxury performance SUV segment.

  • Friend to the ‘Coore’

    Friend to the ‘Coore’

    The University Chapel on the Mona campus of The University of the West Indies became a sanctuary of gratitude and musical reverence on Thursday as Jamaica’s cultural community gathered to honor Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore. Rather than a somber farewell, the service transformed into a vibrant celebration of the legendary cellist and guitarist whose artistry propelled Jamaican music onto the global stage.

    Government officials, music industry pioneers, and cultural custodians joined family members in painting a portrait of Coore as both a national treasure and a humble ambassador whose influence transcended generations. The atmosphere balanced poignant reflection with joyful remembrance, where tears were gracefully interwoven with laughter and stories of his enduring impact.

    As a founding member and longtime musical director of the iconic band Third World, Coore’s genius lay in his ability to bridge musical genres, transforming reggae into a universal language that resonated across continents for over five decades. His legacy was celebrated not merely for technical mastery but for the profound substance and consciousness he embedded within every composition.

    Personal tributes illuminated the man behind the music. Pianist Rita ‘Werki’ Widener delivered a powerful wordless homage, blending Third World’s ‘Try Jah Love’ with Jamaica’s national anthem—a fitting testament to Coore’s deep patriotism. His children—Shiah, Kanna, Stephen, and Ashley—shared intimate memories of a father who encouraged global curiosity, listened without judgment, and nurtured their love for music and travel.

    Colin Leslie, a friend of sixty years, recalled Coore’s signature phrase—’You know I love you, right?’—as emblematic of his approach to life and relationships. The sentiment was echoed by music royalty in attendance, including Damian and Stephen Marley, Protoje, Sean Paul, and Maxi Priest, who described Coore as both mentor and ‘bona fide friend’ who guided countless careers.

    Reverend Captain Astor Carlyle framed Coore’s journey as one of stewardship rather than stardom, introducing the concept of ‘Selah’ moments—musical pauses that invite deep reflection. He noted how Coore’s compositions consistently created space for consciousness elevation and behavioral transformation.

    The service attracted cross-sector leadership including Opposition Leader Mark Golding, Finance Minister Fayval Williams, and Science Minister Daryl Vaz, demonstrating Coore’s significance beyond the cultural sphere. His passing on January 18 at age 69 leaves a profound void, but his legacy continues through his four children, grandchildren, and the timeless music that remains a source of unity, consciousness, and joy for generations to come.

  • Criminals losing territorial control, says Holness

    Criminals losing territorial control, says Holness

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness has articulated a comprehensive national security doctrine positioning Jamaica’s declining homicide statistics as evidence of systematic success against organized criminal networks. Addressing the 4th Annual Security Seminar in New Kingston, Holness detailed how strategic interventions have disrupted gang leadership architectures, constrained illicit financing channels, and diminished criminal territorial dominance.

    The Prime Minister framed national security resilience as the central organizing principle of Jamaica’s strategy, emphasizing that temporary gains require permanent consolidation. “Communities formerly governed through fear must become structurally and permanently inhospitable to criminal return,” Holness asserted, outlining prerequisites including secure public spaces, reliable infrastructure, ordered development, lawful economic opportunities, and consistent state presence.

    Holness presented Hurricane Melissa’s Category 5 impact in October as a paradigm-shifting national security event that claimed 45 lives and affected 760,000 citizens. While praising the Jamaica Defence Force’s response demonstrating enhanced joint planning and civil-military coordination, he revealed critical vulnerabilities: stretched logistical chains, strained maintenance capacity, and border security assets diverted to humanitarian relief.

    The crisis illuminated Jamaica’s persistent capability gaps despite tripled security budgets. “There are threats we could face for which we don’t have assets to respond,” Holness acknowledged, declaring climate shocks permanent features of Jamaica’s security landscape rather than episodic emergencies.

    Holness articulated disasters as strategic shocks that redirect resources, stress institutions, disrupt logistics, and create opportunities for illicit trafficking and irregular migration. Following Melissa’s destruction of police stations and government buildings, he noted with pride the uninterrupted policing services through human resource resilience.

    The Prime Minister integrated border security into this framework, highlighting Jamaica’s position in one of the hemisphere’s most trafficked maritime corridors. He detailed adaptive trafficking methodologies utilizing containerized cargo, clandestine airstrips, UAVs, and semi-submersibles, with narcotic routes increasingly converging with irregular migration networks.

    Citing 2025 interdictions of 33,000 kg of marijuana and 1,360 kg of cocaine, plus 990 pounds of cocaine valued at $3.7 billion intercepted by Coast Guard units, Holness connected border security directly to national stability. The documentation of 124 irregular migrant entries primarily from Haiti and Cuba demonstrated additional humanitarian, legal, and resource challenges for the island nation.

    Holness concluded that national security institutions must develop capacities to “anticipate, absorb, adapt, and recover from shocks” across criminal, environmental, and geopolitical domains, with disaster risk management fully integrated into security planning, budgeting, and capability development.

  • COOLING INFLATION INTENSIFIES RATE DEBATE AHEAD OF BOJ DECISION

    COOLING INFLATION INTENSIFIES RATE DEBATE AHEAD OF BOJ DECISION

    Jamaican monetary authorities face a pivotal policy decision as inflation unexpectedly plunges below the central bank’s target range, creating a new economic landscape just days before the Bank of Jamaica’s rate announcement.

    Recent data reveals annual inflation dropped to 3.9% in January, dipping under the Bank of Jamaica’s four to six percent target band. This development marks a dramatic reversal from previous projections that anticipated inflation would exceed the upper threshold through early 2026, primarily due to hurricane-related supply chain disruptions.

    The surprising downturn has prompted influential financial leaders to advocate for policy reconsideration. Keith Duncan, CEO of JMMB Group, characterized the situation as “a real opportunity” for policymakers to reassess their stance. “Inflation has not breached the upper target; in fact, it has fallen below the lower bound,” Duncan noted in an interview with the Jamaica Observer. “The greater risk at this stage may be sustained inflation below the target range rather than an overshoot.”

    This inflationary shift contrasts sharply with the Monetary Policy Committee’s November warning that prices would “rise sharply” following Hurricane Melissa. By December, the committee had projected above-target inflation persisting through 2026, with risks “skewed to the upside.”

    January’s consumer prices actually declined 0.8% month-over-month, largely driven by a substantial 2.6% decrease in Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages. Improved agricultural output precipitated a notable 9.9% price reduction for vegetables, tubers, and related produce, partially reversing the late-2025 surge.

    The unexpected development forces policymakers to balance competing risks: potential resurgent inflation versus prolonged below-target price growth amid weakening domestic demand. This dilemma is particularly acute given the central bank’s repeated warnings about potential second-round effects where initial supply shocks could trigger broader price and wage increases.

    Duncan contends these secondary risks have failed to materialize. “I have not seen where those second-order effects are playing out,” he told BusinessWeek, noting that domestic demand is already softening. “Growth in private sector credit has been falling year over year due to prior monetary policy actions.”

    The MPC has maintained the policy rate at 5.75% since September, citing concerns about secondary price effects and expansionary fiscal spending connected to reconstruction initiatives. As recently as December, the committee anticipated core inflation—excluding volatile food and fuel prices—would accelerate in the near term, reflecting rebuilding demand and elevated inflation expectations.

    Despite the overall decline, housing and utility costs continued their upward trajectory in January, signaling persistent underlying pressures even as headline inflation falls below target. Most economists anticipate the central bank will maintain its current policy rate, consistent with its historically cautious approach and ongoing concerns about fiscal expansion.

    Monday’s impending decision will reveal whether officials view this inflationary retreat as temporary or the beginning of a new policy cycle phase that might warrant accommodative measures.

  • Grenada launches new housing initiative

    Grenada launches new housing initiative

    ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada — In a significant move to address housing needs amid climate challenges, the Grenadian government has unveiled a groundbreaking housing program focused on resilience and sustainability. The “Scaling-Up Resilient, Green and Affordable Housing in Grenada” initiative, developed in partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), seeks to integrate climate adaptation measures with affordable housing solutions.

    This program forms part of a broader Eastern Caribbean effort funded by the Government of Ireland and the Agence française de développement (AFD). While technical assistance extends to St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada’s project aligns with its domestic “Project 500″—a flagship housing intervention aimed at providing secure and economical homes for its citizens.

    Gloria Thomas, Minister of Social and Community Development, Housing and Gender Affairs, emphasized the urgency of constructing dwellings capable of withstanding extreme weather events. “As a small island developing state on the frontlines of climate change, we must build homes that can withstand increasingly severe weather events while remaining accessible to vulnerable families,” she stated.

    The collaboration will focus on enhancing planning frameworks, developing innovative financing models, and accelerating the delivery of quality housing. Key objectives include improving access to resilient infrastructure, strengthening institutional frameworks, and mobilizing resources for construction—all while keeping homes affordable for low-income households.

    Rachel Fitzpatrick, representing Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Ireland’s strategy for partnering with small island developing states, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions like the Eastern Caribbean.

    A recent panel discussion convened experts from government, finance, construction, and civil society to explore pathways and address barriers in scaling up green housing. Discussions centered on policy reform, financial mechanisms, and technical assistance needed to foster public-private collaboration.

    Daniel Muñoz-Smith, GGGI’s Caribbean representative, noted that investing in sustainable housing not only protects livelihoods but also promotes inclusive economic growth, helping translate national ambitions into tangible community outcomes.

  • BOMB SCARE: Grand Bahama electricity cut for four hours after threat to power company

    BOMB SCARE: Grand Bahama electricity cut for four hours after threat to power company

    A severe disruption struck Grand Bahama on Tuesday morning when a bomb threat triggered the complete shutdown of the island’s primary electrical generation facility. The incident, which occurred shortly after 7 a.m., led to widespread blackouts and brought commercial activities in Freeport to an abrupt standstill.

    Upon receiving the threat, Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) management immediately executed emergency protocols, evacuating all personnel from their generation plant located at the intersection of West Sunrise Highway and Peel Street. First responders, including firefighters and a specialized Police Bomb Assessment Team, swiftly descended on the facility to conduct a meticulous, systematic sweep of the entire compound. Their investigation concluded without discovering any incendiary or explosive devices.

    The precautionary measure resulted in an extensive power outage lasting approximately four hours, affecting countless residents and businesses. GBPC’s main customer service office in Freeport was also shuttered, with a posted notice informing the public of an indefinite closure. Electrical service was successfully restored across the grid by 12:30 p.m. following an official safety clearance from authorities.

    In an official statement, the power company emphasized its commitment to safety, explaining the proactive shutdown was necessary to safeguard its employees and the general public. The utility expressed understanding for the significant inconvenience caused and thanked the community for its patience and cooperation during the crisis.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Nicholas Johnson confirmed the launch of a formal investigation to determine the origin of the threat and whether it was a malicious hoax. ASP Johnson issued a stern warning, emphasizing that threats against critical infrastructure are treated with the utmost seriousness by law enforcement, regardless of their eventual credibility. He highlighted the profound societal impact of such actions, which disrupt essential services, hinder traffic, and place the entire community on high alert.

  • Guyana welcomes commitment from US oil and gas companies

    Guyana welcomes commitment from US oil and gas companies

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The Guyanese government has formally welcomed strengthened energy partnerships with U.S. oil giants ExxonMobil and Chevron, following firm commitments announced during the recent Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo. Both corporations pledged to support the responsible development of Guyana’s hydrocarbon resources while ensuring generational benefits for the nation.

    ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge emphasized the company’s substantial investment in local content development, revealing that US$3.6 billion has already been allocated to Guyanese employment and local business procurement. Meanwhile, Chevron CEO Mike Wirth affirmed his company’s dedication to supporting Guyana’s ongoing development initiatives, particularly through its 30 percent stake in the prolific Stabroek Block.

    Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat disclosed remarkable production growth metrics, with oil output surging from 120,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2020 to exceeding 900,000 bpd by 2025. This transformation establishes Guyana as a premier global producer of low-cost, low-emission resources while maintaining international respect for its well-regulated energy sector.

    The Ministry of Natural Resources concluded the conference by reaffirming its commitment to collaborative stakeholder engagement, ensuring that natural resource management delivers inclusive and sustainable benefits for Guyanese citizens and the broader regional community.