Carib Scope

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  • St Kitts and Nevis tourism to double by 2027 – WIC News

    St Kitts and Nevis tourism to double by 2027 – WIC News

    The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself for unprecedented tourism growth through two landmark developments scheduled for completion by late 2027. Strategic infrastructure enhancements at Port Zante and the innovative Symbol of Love Monument project are expected to fundamentally reshape the nation’s tourism economy and global positioning.

    Port Zante is undergoing comprehensive upgrades to establish home-porting capabilities for major cruise operators, with P&O Cruises confirmed as the primary operator. This strategic shift will transition the destination from a transit port to a cruise itinerary starting point beginning November 2027. The transformation will see passengers arriving by air, utilizing local accommodation, dining establishments, and entertainment venues before embarking from the newly enhanced facility.

    Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson emphasized the economic implications of this development: ‘Home-porting generates substantially greater economic impact than traditional cruise calls. Passengers will extend their stays, generating increased hotel occupancy, restaurant revenue, and tour bookings while creating sustained demand for transportation and retail services.’

    Concurrently, the US$30 million Symbol of Love Monument and Museum project at Fort Thomas represents a sophisticated cultural tourism initiative. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew describes the complex as a ‘world-class cultural and educational landmark’ designed to establish St. Kitts and Nevis as ‘The Island of Love’ and premium wedding destination. The development will feature two museum facilities—the Caribbean Museum of History and the International Museum—alongside a ceremonial monument space specifically designed for wedding ceremonies.

    Industry analysts project these complementary developments could potentially double tourism numbers by 2027, creating a synergistic effect between cruise tourism and cultural attractions. The infrastructure investments position St. Kitts and Nevis as an emerging strategic hub in the Eastern Caribbean tourism market, offering both recreational and cultural experiences that extend beyond traditional beach tourism.

  • Cabinet Backs $40M Reset Wellness Tourism Project in Freetown

    Cabinet Backs $40M Reset Wellness Tourism Project in Freetown

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has granted official endorsement to Reset Wellness Antigua, a substantial tourism initiative designed to position the dual-island nation as a premier destination in the rapidly expanding global wellness sector. The project received full cabinet support following a formal presentation by its principals, marking a strategic pivot from conventional sun-and-sand tourism toward experiential, high-value travel experiences.

    Strategically situated at Harmony Hall at Brown’s Bay Mill in Freetown near Non-Such Bay, the development will integrate luxury wellness offerings with the archipelago’s pristine natural environment. The project represents a conscious effort to attract visitors seeking extended stays and premium services while maintaining ecological sensitivity through low-density construction and sustainable design principles.

    The development promises significant economic benefits through job creation, with an estimated 150-200 direct employment opportunities during construction phases, predominantly filled by local workers. Upon completion within a 24-month timeframe, the facility is projected to generate 80-120 permanent positions across diverse sectors including wellness services, culinary operations, administration, and property maintenance.

    Environmental sustainability forms a cornerstone of the project’s architecture, incorporating advanced features such as solar energy integration, passive cooling systems, green roofing, native vegetation restoration, and comprehensive stormwater management infrastructure.

    The initial development phase will utilize five acres of the twelve-acre property, featuring approximately 172 units developed under the Citizenship by Investment Programme framework. The project represents a capital investment exceeding US$40 million, with the government offering concessions aligned with CBI legislation to facilitate development.

    Cabinet officials characterized the initiative as integral to a broader national strategy targeting high-quality, sustainable tourism investment. The project aims to capitalize on growing consumer interest in wellness and experiential travel while enhancing Antigua and Barbuda’s competitive positioning in the premium tourism market.

  • Government in Talks with New Fixed-Base Operator for Antigua

    Government in Talks with New Fixed-Base Operator for Antigua

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is progressing through advanced negotiations with an undisclosed fixed-base operator (FBO) to significantly upgrade its private aviation infrastructure. This strategic move aims to position the dual-island state as a premier destination for corporate and high-net-worth travel within the region.

    Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, publicly verified the ongoing discussions during a recent post-Cabinet briefing. While confirming that talks are advancing constructively, Merchant emphasized the government’s decision to withhold the identity of the prospective company until a final agreement is formally ratified. “There have been further discussions,” Merchant stated, “but as the discussions continue, the government believes that it would be premature to disclose who these principals are until everything has been finalized.” He assured that a full public disclosure will follow the conclusion of negotiations.

    The establishment of a new FBO is anticipated to bring substantial enhancements to Antigua’s aviation sector. These improvements are projected to include state-of-the-art ground handling services, expanded hangar capacity, comprehensive aircraft maintenance, and premium passenger amenities tailored for executive jets. Fixed-base operators are essential service providers in the aviation ecosystem, offering critical support such as refueling, parking, and concierge services for private and corporate aircraft.

    This initiative underscores the government’s dedicated focus on leveraging private sector investment to bolster its tourism and business travel industries. Although specific details regarding the investment scope and contractual terms remain confidential, the active negotiations signal a committed effort to stimulate economic development through aviation sector expansion. Government officials have indicated that further official updates will be provided upon the finalization of all contractual agreements.

  • Senator Chris Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investment

    Senator Chris Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investment

    In a strategic move to bolster its economic development agenda, the Government of Belize has officially designated Senator Christopher Coye as the nation’s Special Envoy for Finance and Investments. The appointment, formally executed by Governor General Froyla Tzalam and documented in the Belize Gazette, carries retroactive effect from January 1, 2026, establishing Coye’s four-year mandate to orchestrate high-value financial initiatives.

    The newly created position empowers the seasoned attorney and former Finance Minister to represent governmental interests across all financial and investment domains. Coye’s authority encompasses collaborative operations with ministries dedicated to economic transformation, civil aviation, and digital governance infrastructure.

    This appointment marks a return to fiscal leadership for Coye, who previously served as Minister of State in the Finance Ministry before resigning in September 2025 following the People’s United Party’s electoral triumph. Since his departure from the executive branch, Coye has maintained his legislative role while resuming private legal practice.

    In exclusive comments to News Five, Senator Coye expressed readiness to leverage his expertise, stating: “I stand prepared to utilize my experience and professional networks at the Prime Minister’s discretion to attract substantive finance and investment opportunities for Belize.” His designation positions him as a pivotal architect of Belize’s economic trajectory during a period of significant investment potential.

    Concurrently, the Transport Ministry’s engagement of law firm Courtenay Coye LLP for the National Bus Company initiative has generated public scrutiny. Transport Minister Louis Zabaneh defended the selection, emphasizing the firm’s documented competency in public-private partnerships and precedent work on the National Gas Company and Southern Deep Port projects.

  • Guyana assisting T&T to search for financing to restart Petrotrin refinery

    Guyana assisting T&T to search for financing to restart Petrotrin refinery

    In a significant move for Caribbean energy cooperation, Guyana is actively assisting Trinidad and Tobago in securing crucial financing to restart the long-dormant Petrotrin oil refinery. The development emerged during the 5th Guyana Energy Conference held in Georgetown from February 17-20, 2026.

    Guyana’s Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal revealed that President Irfaan Ali’s administration has been instrumental in connecting Trinidadian officials with potential Arab investors and local banking representatives. The collaborative effort aims to secure approximately US$200 million needed for the comprehensive revitalization of the refinery complex.

    Minister Moonilal expressed optimism about the project timeline, suggesting that if financial arrangements are finalized by mid-year or the third quarter, preparatory work could commence as early as the last quarter of 2026. This would potentially allow operations to resume within approximately one year thereafter.

    The financial requirements are structured in two phases: an initial US$50 million injection for short-term recommencement of operations, followed by a larger US$200 million investment to restore the refinery’s full capacity. This expanded capability would enable Trinidad to resume its historical role as a primary fuel supplier to the 15-nation Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

    Minister Moonilal highlighted that the Saudi Arabian investment community has shown particular interest in the venture during discussions held in Guyana. The allocated funds would address critical technical upgrades, design modifications, and essential health and safety improvements at the facility.

    While acknowledging Trinidad’s substantial domestic expertise in refinery operations, Moonilal indicated that international partnerships might be necessary. Potential collaborators could include specialized subcontractors from Houston, Texas, alongside technical experts from energy giants Shell and BP.

    Addressing questions about crude compatibility, Moonilal clarified that technological advancements have largely eliminated the historical distinction between heavy and light crude processing. Modern conversion technologies and potential oil swap arrangements would allow the refinery to efficiently process various crude types, including Guyana’s light sweet crude.

    The Petrotrin refinery was shuttered in November 2018 by the previous People’s National Movement administration following years of financial challenges and substantial debt accumulation.

  • 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.

  • Wales power plant to generate at full capacity next year; plans moving apace for “explosive growth” in electricity demand

    Wales power plant to generate at full capacity next year; plans moving apace for “explosive growth” in electricity demand

    Guyana is rapidly advancing its energy infrastructure development to accommodate unprecedented growth in electricity consumption, with officials outlining ambitious plans at the recent Guyana Energy Conference. The 300-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant at Wales is projected to achieve full operational capacity by mid-2026, according to Ministry of Natural Resources Consultant Winston Brassington. The facility, currently under construction by Texas-based contractor LINDSAYCA, is expected to initially generate 228 megawatts through its four simple cycle gas turbines before reaching maximum output with combined cycle completion. This development coincides with Guyana’s significant grid modernization effort, transitioning from 69 kV to 230 kV transmission systems to handle what officials describe as ‘explosive growth’ in electricity demand. The new transmission infrastructure already extends from Wales to Eccles, with additional substations and control centers scheduled for completion by May. Guyana Power and Light CEO Kesh Nandlall revealed that electricity consumption has surged by 65% over five years, from 903 gigawatt hours in 2020 to 1,485 gigawatt hours in 2025. Current peak demand reaches 221.5 megawatts against available reliable capacity of 260 megawatts. With projections indicating demand could reach 1,650 megawatts by 2030—requiring a 600% capacity increase—authorities are already planning a second gas-to-energy plant at Wales. Five firms have been prequalified for this expansion, which will include urea fertilizer production and glass manufacturing facilities.

  • Eastern Caribbean Central Bank: Career opportunities

    Eastern Caribbean Central Bank: Career opportunities

    The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), the premier financial institution serving the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), has officially opened applications for several high-level positions at its Basseterre, St. Kitts headquarters. This recruitment drive targets exceptionally qualified citizens from ECCU member nations seeking to advance their careers within the region’s central banking system.

    Available positions include a Currency Assistant within the Currency Management Department, an Information Security Analyst II in the Management Information Systems Department, and two Senior Accounting Officer roles—one in the Financial Applications and Accounting Unit and another in the Budget and Payment Unit, both under the Accounting Department.

    The ECCB offers an initial two-year contractual engagement for the successful candidates, presenting a pathway to permanent employment contingent upon outstanding performance. All applications must be processed through the official ECCB Employment Application Form, accessible exclusively through the bank’s careers portal.

    Prospective applicants must prepare a comprehensive submission package including a completed online form, detailed curriculum vitae, two recent original letters of reference, certified copies of all academic certificates, an official university transcript, and a recent criminal record or police certificate of character. The deadline for applications is set for Friday, February 27, 2026.

    Supporting documentation should be uploaded directly through the application platform or alternatively submitted to the Human Resource Department via the designated email address. The ECCB maintains rigorous standards in its selection process, reflecting its critical role in maintaining monetary and financial stability across the Eastern Caribbean region.

  • Sandals Grenada: Now Hiring — Operations Manager, Rooms Division

    Sandals Grenada: Now Hiring — Operations Manager, Rooms Division

    Sandals Grenada, a prominent member of the Caribbean’s premier Luxury-Included® resort chain, has announced a senior leadership vacancy for an Operations Manager specializing in Rooms Division. This executive position offers hospitality professionals an exceptional career opportunity within the Caribbean’s luxury tourism sector.

    The appointed candidate will assume comprehensive responsibility for strategic planning and daily operational execution across the resort’s Rooms Division. This senior role entails direct oversight of three critical departments: Front Office operations, Guest Services, and Housekeeping, ensuring consistent delivery of the brand’s renowned service standards across multiple resort properties.

    Key operational responsibilities include coordinating management activities for guest rooms and public areas, developing and implementing revised operational policies and procedures, and creating innovative business strategies to enhance guest experience through process improvements. The position additionally requires collaboration with the Learning and Development team to identify and coordinate specialized training programs for division staff.

    Workplace safety represents another critical dimension of this role, with the Operations Manager establishing and enforcing compliance with health standards, legal regulations, and corporate protocols. The position also involves managing strategic relationships with key operational vendors supporting resort functions.

    Qualification requirements specify a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism, Resort Management, or related disciplines, complemented by a minimum of eight years of progressive leadership experience in hospitality or resort management. Technical proficiency must include Microsoft Office Suite applications and automated Rooms Division systems, with preference given to candidates holding a Caricom Skills Certificate.

    Interested candidates must submit comprehensive application packages including resumes and completed internal forms via email to The Recruitment and Compliance Specialist at Sandals Grenada. The application deadline is February 27, 2026, with mandatory inclusion of ‘Operations Manager, Rooms Division’ in the email subject line. The recruitment process will involve selective shortlisting of applicants, with only chosen candidates receiving further communication.