Carib Scope

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  • Browne Defends Citizenship by Investment Programme at Caribbean–EU Assembly

    Browne Defends Citizenship by Investment Programme at Caribbean–EU Assembly

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda delivered a robust justification for the nation’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI) during the inaugural session of the Caribbean-European Union Parliamentary Assembly. The high-level gathering, convened from February 16-18 at the American University of Antigua Convention Centre, provided a platform for addressing one of the Caribbean’s most contentious policy areas currently under European examination.

    In his address, Prime Minister Browne characterized the CBI initiative as both lawful and transparent, emphasizing its critical role as a developmental mechanism for small island nations striving for economic stability. The programme, according to Browne, operates within meticulously designed legal frameworks accompanied by rigorous oversight protocols that exceed international standards.

    The capital generated through these investment migration schemes has been strategically deployed to finance hurricane recovery operations, construct climate-resilient infrastructure, expand healthcare services, develop educational facilities, and ensure fiscal stabilization across participating Caribbean nations.

    Browne revealed that Caribbean governments have engaged in an extensive 18-month consultation process with European Union, United Kingdom, and United States authorities to strengthen programme integrity. Dismissing claims of elevated risk associated with CBI, the Prime Minister contended that the multilayered due diligence procedures, advanced biometric screening systems, and financial transparency requirements implemented by Caribbean nations frequently surpass the scrutiny applied to certain non-immigrant visa categories.

    While acknowledging that citizenship policy falls squarely within national sovereignty, Browne advocated for continued evidence-based dialogue with EU officials rather than unilateral restrictions as discussions regarding visa access and investment migration policies progress.

  • ABYSO Managing Director Earns LLM with Honours from University of Bristol

    ABYSO Managing Director Earns LLM with Honours from University of Bristol

    Claudine Benjamin, the Managing Director of the Antigua & Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO), has achieved academic excellence by completing a Master of Laws (LLM) with honors from the University of Bristol. Her specialized degree focuses on Employment, Work and Equality Law, representing a significant personal and professional milestone.

    The ABYSO organization publicly celebrated Benjamin’s accomplishment this week, highlighting her successful completion of the rigorous postgraduate program. The LLM degree represents an advanced legal qualification obtained after initial law studies, with Benjamin’s program specifically examining labor rights, workplace standards, and equality frameworks within both national and international legal contexts.

    Beyond her academic pursuits, Benjamin has established herself as a cultural leader through her role with the youth orchestra. She is widely recognized for mentoring emerging musicians and guiding the organization’s artistic development. Colleagues and associates have characterized her latest achievement as emblematic of the same discipline, dedication, and leadership qualities she demonstrates in her cultural work.

    This educational achievement underscores the growing intersection between legal expertise and cultural leadership, particularly in areas concerning labor rights and equality frameworks that may influence organizational management within the arts sector. Benjamin’s accomplishment serves as an inspiration to professionals pursuing advanced education while maintaining significant leadership responsibilities.

  • VS geeft Trinidad en Tobago licenties voor olie- en gasactiviteiten met Venezuela

    VS geeft Trinidad en Tobago licenties voor olie- en gasactiviteiten met Venezuela

    The United States has issued two General Licenses to Trinidad and Tobago, enabling the Caribbean nation to legally conduct specific oil and gas activities in Venezuela and within their shared maritime border region. This development marks a significant shift in hemispheric energy cooperation following previous sanction-related disruptions.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced the licenses via social media, characterizing them as a crucial advancement for regional energy security. She emphasized that this U.S. authorization not only strengthens diplomatic ties with Washington but also positions Trinidad and Tobago as a “reliable energy hub” in the Caribbean basin.

    “We remain optimistic about enhancing our role in regional energy markets, supporting domestic industry, securing employment opportunities, and contributing to stable supply chains that benefit the broader region,” the Prime Minister stated. She further committed that all activities would adhere to applicable legal and regulatory frameworks with strong emphasis on transparency and governance.

    The licenses contain specific financial provisions requiring all payments from oil and gas ventures—including taxes or royalties to Venezuela’s government, state oil company PdVSA, or its entities—to be deposited into special accounts designated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The regulations explicitly exclude commercially unreasonable payments, debt swaps, or transactions involving gold or digital currencies.

    This authorization follows broader U.S. sanctions easing that has enabled major energy corporations including Shell, BP, Chevron, Eni, and Repsol to consider or expand operations in Venezuela. The move reverses the April 2025 revocation of previous licenses that had suspended development of the Dragon and Cocuina-Manakin gas fields, projects with substantial economic implications for Trinidad and Tobago.

    Energy analysts view the development as both an opportunity for regional energy security and a challenge due to Venezuela’s complex geopolitical landscape. Persistent sanctions, political volatility, and international tensions continue to influence the operating environment. While the new licenses potentially pave the way for future investments and collaborations, experts caution that strict adherence to international regulations and ongoing diplomatic coordination will be essential for long-term success.

  • Antiguan Farmer Twin I Payne Wins Agrifest Title in St. Croix for Second Consecutive Year

    Antiguan Farmer Twin I Payne Wins Agrifest Title in St. Croix for Second Consecutive Year

    In a remarkable display of agricultural excellence, Antiguan cultivator Twin I Payne has secured consecutive championship titles at Agrifest 2026 in St. Croix, marking an extraordinary achievement in Caribbean farming circles. The regional agricultural showcase, renowned for gathering the finest producers across the archipelago, witnessed Payne’s unprecedented back-to-back victory—a feat rarely accomplished in the event’s history.

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy publicly celebrated Payne’s accomplishment, emphasizing how this repeated triumph positions Antigua and Barbuda prominently within the regional agricultural landscape. Ministry officials highlighted that Payne’s consistent performance not only demonstrates exceptional skill but also reflects the nation’s growing agricultural capabilities and commitment to food security initiatives.

    Agrifest, established as the Caribbean’s premier agricultural exposition, transforms St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands annually into a vibrant hub of agricultural innovation. The event attracts farmers, agro-processors, and exhibitors from across the Caribbean basin who present livestock, diverse crops, and value-added products in a competitive showcase of regional agricultural prowess.

    Government representatives noted that Payne’s achievement serves as both an inspiration to established farmers and a compelling model for youth considering agricultural careers. The consecutive wins underscore the potential for consistency and excellence within the sector, particularly important as Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its domestic food production capabilities and regional competitiveness.

    The ministry’s statement further emphasized that such accomplishments validate ongoing investments in agricultural development while demonstrating the high standards achievable through dedicated practice and innovation. Agrifest continues to be recognized as a critical platform for knowledge exchange, commercial opportunities, and regional collaboration in agricultural advancement.

  • Police investigate weekend shooting fatality

    Police investigate weekend shooting fatality

    Authorities in the Commonwealth of Dominica have initiated a formal investigation following a lethal shooting incident that transpired on Sunday evening along Independence Street in the capital city of Roseau. The violent episode, which occurred on February 15th, resulted in the tragic death of a young male victim whose identity remains undisclosed pending family notifications.

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has confirmed the ongoing investigation but maintains that specific operational details cannot be released during active evidence gathering. Preliminary reports indicate the incident represents the latest in a series of security challenges facing the Caribbean nation, though official sources emphasize that conclusive determinations regarding motives or potential suspects remain premature.

    Dominica News Online (DNO), the territory’s primary digital news source, has committed to providing continuous coverage as verified information emerges from law enforcement channels. The publication urges public cooperation with investigative authorities while cautioning against speculation that might compromise judicial proceedings.

    This development occurs against the broader context of regional security initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime throughout the Eastern Caribbean territories. Community representatives have expressed concern over the incident while awaiting official updates from the CDPF’s media relations division regarding investigative progress and public safety recommendations.

  • PRESS RELEASE: Afrikukture Stilt Walkers present – Echoes of the Shadow Walkers

    PRESS RELEASE: Afrikukture Stilt Walkers present – Echoes of the Shadow Walkers

    DOMINICA – This February 17th, the Caribbean island of Dominica will witness an unprecedented cultural phenomenon as its carnival celebrations transcend traditional boundaries. Mas Dominik 2026 marks a historic convergence where celestial events—a new moon, lunar new year, and annular eclipse—create a portal for ancestral spirits to reunite with the living.

    The production, conceived by 19-year-old designer Abigail Toussaint of Pointe Michel, reinterprets Dominican folklore through an Afro-cultural lens. Rather than the feared creatures of colonial distortion—the diablesse, lougarou, and soukouyant—the presentation reveals these entities as dignified deities of African heritage, misunderstood through centuries of cultural dislocation.

    Central to the spectacle are King Umbra (Duwan Vidal) and Queen Solara (Kyanna Dyer), who embody opposing cosmic forces. The king’s obsidian-black costume, adorned with skeletal structures and lightning-like gold accents, represents shadow dominion. Conversely, the queen radiates solar energy through molten gold regalia and madras flourishes, channeling divine authority.

    Their court includes The Mokele—mythical guardians wearing fusion madras designs—and Shadow Sonic Walkers who transform streets into surreal landscapes with their stilt-based choreography. The Luminous Night section features 84 performers, including visiting Antiguan RT performers, representing the sacred hour when dimensional boundaries dissolve.

    The production, collaboratively produced by Afrikulture Stilt Walkers Inc. and multiple Dominican artisans, receives sponsorship from Trois Pitons Water, OECS Pearl, and Alliance Française de la Dominique among others. This artistic endeavor goes beyond entertainment to facilitate cultural reclamation, inviting participants to experience carnival as both celebration and spiritual homecoming.

  • Jn Charles edge home at Augier Combined sports

    Jn Charles edge home at Augier Combined sports

    In a stunning reversal of fortunes, Jn Charles House claimed victory at the Augier Combined School track meet on Wednesday, February 11, marking their first triumph in five years. The defending District 6 champions showcased exceptional athletic prowess on their home grounds, overcoming significant odds to secure the championship title.

    The competition witnessed the dethroning of previous champions St Jour, who fell just five points short despite entering the track finals with a commanding 16-point advantage. Initially, St Jour led the standings with 257 points, followed by Jn Charles (241), Surage (206), and Louis (178). Through determined performances in individual events, Jn Charles narrowed the gap to a mere three points heading into the relays.

    The decisive moment came during the relay competitions, where Jn Charles athletes delivered a spectacular performance that propelled them to a final total of 689 points. St Jour finished closely behind with 684 points, while Surage and Louis completed the standings with 583 and 504 points respectively.

    Individual excellence highlighted the meet, with Theon William of Jn Charles, the 2025 District 6 victor ludorum, dominating the Under-13 boys category with three gold medals. Millie Alexander also impressed with three golds and a bronze. In the Under-9 division, Heaven Cenac (Jn Charles) captured four gold medals among boys, while Isa Jn Baptiste (Surage) stood out among girls with three gold medals.

    The event featured remarkable performances across age groups, including Naomi Louis (Jn Charles) and Dervon Cornibert (St Jour) each securing two gold medals in their respective categories. Grade 1 competitions saw shared honors between Jada Actille (Jn Charles) and Kalani Adjayeb (St Jour), while Terry Paul (Jn Charles) emerged as the clear boys’ champion.

    The meet extended to kindergarten participants, with Naomi Charlemagne winning two events for Jn Charles and Trevon Wilfred of St Jour capturing gold and silver. Special Olympic recognition was awarded to Pison Nicolas for outstanding achievement.

    Beyond the athletic competitions, attendees enjoyed live performances from the school cheerleading squad and an exhibition cycling race organized by the Saint Lucia Cycling Association, featuring six students from the school.

  • HAPI Hands Over Renovated Five Islands Home to Family of 25

    HAPI Hands Over Renovated Five Islands Home to Family of 25

    A transformative housing initiative reached its pinnacle in Five Islands this week as the Home Assistance Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) delivered a comprehensively renovated residence to a family exceeding twenty-five members. This landmark project represents the most extensive undertaking in the program’s history, showcasing unprecedented collaboration between government agencies and private sector partners.

    Programme Coordinator Inspector Veldon Raggette emphasized the complex logistical planning required for the large-scale renovation, noting that the restoration aimed to provide both dignified living conditions and functional infrastructure for the substantial household. The comprehensive overhaul featured significant structural enhancements and the strategic installation of multiple bathroom facilities to address privacy concerns and improve daily functionality for all residents.

    Kings Casino emerged as a key corporate contributor by funding and outfitting the home’s bathroom installations. Raggette highlighted this partnership as exemplary of the effective public-private collaborations that have become instrumental to HAPI’s operational success.

    The program operates under the strategic direction of Prime Minister Gaston Browne within the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, led by Minister Rawdon Turner. Raggette extended recognition to Social Protection Board Coordinator Mary Baltimore, numerous volunteers, corporate sponsors, and rehabilitation participants from His Majesty’s Prison who contributed construction labor.

    During an emotionally charged handover ceremony, family members conveyed profound gratitude for their revitalized living environment, expressing confidence that the enhancements would foster greater household stability and comfort. This achievement underscores HAPI’s core mission of securing safe housing for vulnerable populations while demonstrating the power of community cooperation in addressing critical social needs.

  • Agroproject moet jongeren warm maken voor landbouwcarrière

    Agroproject moet jongeren warm maken voor landbouwcarrière

    In a remarkable initiative blending agricultural education with practical experience, eight children from Kasabaholo have successfully harvested their first crop after three months of dedicated farming. The Kids Agro Future project, spearheaded by The Bridge Diaspora organization, has yielded impressive results including football-sized cabbages, perfect okra for soup, and spinach with remarkably large leaves.

    Orlando Cairo, one of the driving forces behind the initiative, expressed profound pride in the children’s accomplishments. “They have performed excellently. I was truly astonished myself,” Cairo remarked. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical mini-GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) training, already convincing three participants to pursue agricultural careers.

    The project’s methodology emphasizes systematic agricultural practices. Participants receive seeds to plant at home while meticulously documenting planting dates, seed depth, watering frequency, and germination progress. “You can see their joy when the first seedling emerges,” Cairo noted, emphasizing the need for more opportunities for children to engage actively with agriculture.

    Suriname’s Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Mike Noersalim, has thrown his full support behind the initiative. During a meeting with the young farmers, he highlighted agriculture’s critical role in the nation’s future. “Without agriculture and livestock, we face significant problems. We cannot survive without food. You are not only the future but also ensuring that future by choosing agriculture,” Minister Noersalim told the children.

    The ministry is actively pursuing collaborations with organizations and educational institutions including Natin, PTC, and potentially Anton de Kom University of Suriname to encourage youth engagement in agriculture. Minister Noersalim encouraged participants to “choose a direction not just because it generates income, but primarily because you have passion for it.”

    Project coordinator John van der Zijden emphasized how modern technological developments are making agriculture more attractive and efficient. “The traditional tools alone are no longer sufficient. We must work more efficiently and implement new technology,” he stated. Van der Zijden demonstrated drone technology for digital irrigation and remote crop monitoring, along with innovative water conservation techniques increasingly vital in times of climate change.

    Through this combination of hands-on experience, knowledge transfer, and modern technology, the initiative aims to inspire young people toward sustainable agricultural careers, potentially addressing future food security challenges while revitalizing Suriname’s agricultural sector.

  • Caribbean–EU Parliamentary Assembly Begins Today in Antigua

    Caribbean–EU Parliamentary Assembly Begins Today in Antigua

    Antigua and Barbuda is currently hosting the inaugural plenary session of the Caribbean-European Union Parliamentary Assembly at the American University of Antigua Convention Centre, marking a significant milestone in intercontinental diplomacy. The three-day summit (February 16-18) represents the first major gathering under the recently established Samoa Agreement between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union.

    The ceremonial opening commenced with House Speaker Osbert Frederick presiding over proceedings, followed by traditional protocol elements including national anthems, invocations, and a keynote address from Prime Minister Gaston Browne. This high-level convening brings together parliamentary representatives from across the Caribbean and EU member states to address pressing regional concerns.

    Central to the assembly’s agenda are critical discussions on climate resilience strategies, combating the persistent sargassum seaweed infestation affecting Caribbean coastlines, and accelerating the transition toward renewable energy sources. Delegates are examining practical solutions for expanding solar and wind power capabilities, modernizing energy infrastructure, and reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.

    Parallel to the main proceedings, specialized Women’s and Youth forums are addressing intersectional challenges including gender parity in economic systems, enhancing female participation in governance, and engaging younger generations in climate adaptation initiatives.

    The assembly will culminate on Wednesday with the formal adoption of policy recommendations to be presented to the OACPS-EU Council of Ministers, followed by a comprehensive press conference to communicate outcomes to the international community.