Carib Scope

分类： society

  • A Camalote Man’s Journey Back Through Poetry

    A Camalote Man’s Journey Back Through Poetry

    In the serene village of Camalote, Belize, a remarkable story of personal redemption is unfolding through the power of written verse. Oliver “Shiloh” Wiltshire has discovered that poetry composed during his most challenging periods ultimately became the catalyst for his spiritual and creative rebirth after nearly a decade of losing his way.

    Wiltshire’s journey represents a profound testament to resilience and self-discovery. Previously established as a semi-professional athlete, educator, and village council chairman, he experienced a significant personal detour that lasted approximately ten years. During this period, his extensive collection of poetic works—more than thirty volumes worth of material—remained concealed beneath his bed, forgotten yet preserving the essence of his earlier struggles and reflections.

    The turning point emerged when Wiltshire rediscovered these stored writings. “When I began to revisit these poems and read them anew, they spoke directly to my lived experiences,” Wiltshire explained. The verses, initially created as an emotional outlet, unexpectedly provided the guidance he needed to reorient his life’s path.

    Now, Wiltshire has embarked on an ambitious creative mission: transforming his poetry into musical compositions that can reach global audiences. He has established Shiloh Productions and partnered with Luke “JR Rebel” Banner, a respected figure in Belize’s music scene known for his work with the popular duo “Instruments of Love” fifteen years prior.

    Banner brings renewed perspective and maturity to the collaboration. “Returning to music now involves greater focus, lyrical sophistication, and mental clarity,” Banner noted. “I approach the craft with enhanced confidence and excitement about what we can deliver.”

    The production team is completed by Asaad “DJ Dice” Patnett, who handles engineering and marketing responsibilities. Having grown up in Camalote exposed to Wiltshire’s poetry since childhood, Patnett recognizes the project’s unique potential. “This initiative breaks new ground creatively,” Patnett emphasized. “These poems have resonated with me since my youth, and now we’re giving them new life through music.”

    Wiltshire draws inspiration from diverse sources including life experiences, religious texts—particularly his well-used Bible—and works by Belizean authors. His ultimate objective transcends conventional boundaries: “I aim to share these messages through music, literature, and poetry so they can resonate regardless of religious, political, national, or racial backgrounds.”

    The team is currently seeking support to upgrade their studio equipment and fully realize their artistic vision, transforming personal redemption into shared creative expression that promises to inspire well beyond their village borders.

  • Politic : Career Development Plan at the ONA

    Politic : Career Development Plan at the ONA

    Amidst severe socioeconomic challenges characterized by widespread business closures, escalating job insecurity, and mounting social tensions, Haiti’s National Old-Age Insurance Office (ONA) has embarked on a comprehensive modernization initiative to revitalize its operational framework and enhance institutional innovation capabilities.

    Under the leadership of Director General Ronald Bazile, who assumed office in February 2025, ONA has implemented multiple significant reforms targeting governance restructuring and workplace condition improvements. The centerpiece of this transformation is the newly established Career Development Plan (CDP), designed to elevate employee competencies through merit-based advancement, professional training, and productivity incentives.

    The CDP specifically addresses historical inequities by identifying and rectifying cases of institutional oversight, systematically eliminating favoritism practices, and ensuring optimal personnel placement according to demonstrated capabilities. Implementation is already underway with the creation of a dedicated Career Management and Training Unit responsible for monitoring professional trajectories, administering continuing education programs, and facilitating promotions based exclusively on objective criteria.

    Operational procedures involve clear phases: identification of previously overlooked employees, application processing, and formal promotion notifications. The initial cohort has already received advancement letters, with a second group scheduled to receive confirmations by month’s end. Simultaneously, scholarship applications are being processed, with several employees already experiencing status improvements correlated with academic achievements. All personnel are encouraged to utilize online tracking systems to monitor application progress.

    The reform initiative extends nationwide through awareness campaigns launched by the Training and Career Planning Unit, beginning in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area before expanding to Northern and Southern regions starting January 27. These outreach efforts aim to familiarize staff with the program’s mechanics ahead of scheduled training sessions.

    This operational shift demonstrates ONA’s transition from theoretical planning to concrete action in recognizing merit, promoting demonstrated competence, and institutionalizing equitable treatment—a transformative project poised to significantly impact thousands of employees across Haiti’s public pension system.

  • Missing Cocaine Evidence Recovered in Orange Walk

    Missing Cocaine Evidence Recovered in Orange Walk

    The Belize Police Department has initiated an internal investigation following a significant procedural violation at the Orange Walk Police Station involving mishandled narcotics evidence. The incident centered on approximately one gram of cocaine seized during a law enforcement operation that was never formally logged or transferred to designated exhibit custodians.

    According to official reports, the controlled substance was improperly stored in an officer’s personal locker instead of following mandated evidence protocols. Another officer subsequently accessed the locker and removed the material, creating a chain of custody breach.

    Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado confirmed the ongoing internal investigation into the evidence handling failure. Minister of Home Affairs Oscar Mira provided clarification to News Five, stating the missing cocaine had been successfully recovered and accounted for.

    Minister Mira attributed the incident to an officer’s failure to adhere to established evidence protocols, emphasizing that drugs should never be left unsecured. He explained that proper procedure requires all evidence to follow a strict chain of custody, ultimately being signed over to exhibit keepers for secure storage.

    The internal investigation will focus on ensuring compliance with evidence handling procedures and preventing similar incidents in the future. The case has highlighted the importance of strict protocol adherence within law evidence management systems, even for relatively small quantities of controlled substances.

  • FCD’s Macaw Research Permit Renewed

    FCD’s Macaw Research Permit Renewed

    The Belizean government has officially renewed the research permit for Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) following successful resolution of concerns raised by logging operations in protected areas. Prime Minister John Briceño confirmed the two-year extension, emphasizing FCD’s role as “a very good partner in development” that deserves full governmental cooperation.

    The permit uncertainty emerged when logging companies operating under sustainable forestry practices reported conflicts with researchers accessing active logging zones. According to Briceño, the situation required careful negotiation to balance conservation research with commercial interests. “But we worked it out, and that’s important,” the Prime Minister stated, highlighting the successful resolution.

    With the renewed permit, the government and FCD are expanding their collaborative efforts. Significant developments include enhanced operations at the Las Cuevas Research Station, where plans are advancing for long-term agreements and the introduction of “educational tourism” programs. These initiatives will enable students and professors to reside on-site while conducting field research.

    Additionally, a new headquarters location has been identified near the Chalillo Dam with consent from the Belize Defence Force. The facility will incorporate a visitor center to support expanded conservation education efforts. Prime Minister Briceño expressed personal commitment to FCD’s mission, noting his historical involvement dating back to his ministerial tenure: “I feel very strongly about the work that they do… I do feel I have a vested interest in seeing that they continue the fantastic work that they do.”

  • Jones uit zorgen over mishandeling verdachte; politie start intern onderzoek

    Jones uit zorgen over mishandeling verdachte; politie start intern onderzoek

    A disturbing video circulating on social media has triggered official investigations and parliamentary scrutiny in Suriname after showing police officers forcibly loading a detained suspect into a pickup truck bed while bystanders watched. The footage prompted DNA Assembly Member Ebu Jones, who chairs the Standing Committee on Human Rights, to address the National Assembly with grave concerns about what he described as “disproportionate and inhuman” police conduct.

    While emphasizing his full support for law enforcement efforts against crime, Jones asserted that all police actions must remain within legal boundaries. “Strong intervention is permissible, but not outside the rules,” he stated during the assembly session. The parliamentarian referenced not only the recent incident but also previous allegations of serious misconduct within detention facilities.

    “The objective should be to correct suspects and maintain order, not to kill them,” Jones argued, calling on the government to clarify its policies regarding police conduct. He further questioned how the legislative body could exercise its oversight role to improve current practices, acknowledging the important work of police while insisting it must be performed with respect for rule of law and human dignity.

    In response to the viral video, the Suriname Police Force (KPS) confirmed it has launched an internal investigation. Police leadership issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the footage, which multiple citizens had brought to their attention. The investigation will examine the entire sequence of police actions, including circumstances preceding the filmed incident and the manner of suspect transportation.

    The KPS statement recognized that officers frequently operate in dynamic and potentially dangerous situations where public and colleague safety takes priority. However, the force simultaneously emphasized that all operations must comply with established guidelines and constitutional norms. Should the investigation reveal procedural shortcomings or areas requiring improvement, the police committed to incorporating these findings into further professionalization measures and behavior-guiding protocols.

    Results will be presented to competent authorities according to standard procedures, the KPS stated, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining a safe society while respecting legal frameworks, human dignity, and community trust.

  • Grenada signs hospital financing agreement with OPEC Fund

    Grenada signs hospital financing agreement with OPEC Fund

    In a significant development for Caribbean healthcare infrastructure, Grenada has formalized a major financing arrangement with the OPEC Fund for International Development to accelerate its flagship medical modernization initiative. The $30 million agreement, signed during the Latin America and the Caribbean International Economic Forum 2026 in Panama City, represents the initial disbursement within a broader $60 million financial framework established in December 2025.

    The signing ceremony, attended by Grenada’s Minister for Finance Honourable Dennis Cornwall and Project Polaris Sponsor Ambassador Andrea St Bernard, marks a pivotal advancement for the Hope Vale Medical City development. This comprehensive healthcare transformation project aims to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility that will serve as the cornerstone of Grenada’s revamped health ecosystem.

    Ambassador St Bernard emphasized the agreement’s transformative potential, stating: ‘This partnership enables the transition from extensive planning phases to concrete implementation. We are building not just a modern hospital facility, but laying the groundwork for an integrated, patient-focused healthcare system that will benefit all citizens of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.’

    The Project Polaris initiative represents Grenada’s ambitious strategy to enhance medical service delivery, expand access to contemporary healthcare technologies, and establish a resilient health infrastructure capable of meeting the nation’s evolving needs. The government acknowledged the OPEC Fund’s ongoing collaboration in supporting national development priorities and improving health outcomes for the Grenadian population.

  • Temporary closure of the Grenville Fish Market

    Temporary closure of the Grenville Fish Market

    The Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs has announced a temporary operational pause at the Grenville Fish Market scheduled for February 2-3, 2026. This strategic closure will enable comprehensive training programs focused on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Standards and Protocols for market personnel.

    In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the initiative aims to elevate food safety protocols and ensure full compliance with both national and international regulatory requirements. The training curriculum is designed to enhance handling procedures, storage practices, and overall hygiene standards within Grenada’s fish market operations.

    Regular market activities will recommence on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, following the completion of the educational sessions. Ministry officials have expressed appreciation for public understanding regarding this necessary interruption to standard services.

    The implementation of these enhanced safety measures demonstrates the government’s commitment to public health protection and quality assurance in seafood distribution. Such programs contribute significantly to maintaining Grenada’s reputation for food safety excellence and potentially strengthening export capabilities.

  • Bitar Fast-Food Restaurant Robbed at Gunpoint

    Bitar Fast-Food Restaurant Robbed at Gunpoint

    A Bitar fast-food restaurant became the target of a brazen armed robbery, sending shockwaves through the local community. The incident, which unfolded during operating hours, involved at least one assailant brandishing a firearm to intimidate staff and patrons before making off with an undisclosed sum of cash.

    Early reports from law enforcement indicate that the perpetrator entered the establishment and immediately produced a weapon, creating an atmosphere of fear and coercion. Employees were forced to comply with demands under direct threat, highlighting the vulnerability of service industry workers to such violent crimes. While no physical injuries have been reported, witnesses described scenes of terror as customers scrambled for safety.

    Local police have launched a comprehensive investigation, reviewing surveillance footage and collecting forensic evidence from the scene. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that might lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect. This event marks concerning trend of armed robberies targeting retail and food service businesses, raising questions about security measures and crime prevention strategies in commercial districts.

    The management of Bitar has expressed full cooperation with investigators while implementing additional security protocols across their chain of restaurants. Community leaders have called for increased police patrols in commercial areas to deter similar incidents and ensure public safety.

  • Community Oriented Policing moves to the Newtown Primary School this week, focus on conflict management

    Community Oriented Policing moves to the Newtown Primary School this week, focus on conflict management

    In a proactive move to address rising educational concerns, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has intensified its community outreach initiatives. On January 28, 2026, officers from the Community-Oriented Policing Unit attended a Parent-Teacher Association meeting at Newtown Primary School, marking a significant step in fostering collaborative security efforts.

    Corporal Dion Moses, representing the CDPF, delivered a compelling address to parents highlighting critical challenges facing educational institutions. He emphasized the alarming escalation of school violence, bullying incidents, and disciplinary issues requiring immediate attention. The corporal outlined the indispensable role of parental guidance in shaping positive student behavior and academic outcomes.

    Moses advocated for enhanced parental involvement in children’s daily lives, urging families to establish stronger emotional connections to better understand youth experiences. He specifically cautioned against confrontational approaches toward educators, stating, “Parents should refrain from entering school premises to engage in quarrels or heated arguments with teachers.” Instead, he recommended resolving disputes through formal channels and respectful dialogue.

    The police force reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to partnering with educational stakeholders to create secure and nurturing learning environments. This initiative forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen community-police relationships while addressing systemic issues affecting youth development.

    The CDPF’s statement concluded with a powerful call to action: “Through collective responsibility and sustained cooperation, we can build safer schools and more resilient communities for future generations.”

  • Over 100 families in St Peter to be given opportunity to own land

    Over 100 families in St Peter to be given opportunity to own land

    In a landmark move addressing historical injustices, the Barbadian government has initiated the formal transfer of land ownership to 132 families in the Six Men’s community of St. Peter. This initiative, known as the Six Men’s Life Improvement Project, represents a significant step in correcting decades of land tenure insecurity.

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced the progress during a Barbados Labour Party meeting in Speightstown, revealing that 37 households have already received formal offer letters. The remaining qualified tenants are undergoing property surveys to facilitate complete title transfers through the Tenant’s Freehold Purchase program—a policy originally established under former Prime Minister Tom Adams.

    The government is maintaining the original purchasing terms established decades ago, offering land at just 10 cents per square foot without inflation adjustments. Mottley emphasized the extraordinary opportunity this presents, noting that prospective landowners can acquire property for less than the cost of premium sneakers—approximately US$250 for a standard plot.

    Mottley framed the initiative as a form of historical reparation, stating: ‘The people who were treated as beasts of burden for centuries have already paid for this land over and over through your blood, sweat and tears. Today we ask you simply to consummate that relationship.’

    Colin Jordan, BLP candidate for St. Peter, highlighted that this resolution addresses a half-century-old community concern. He specifically rejected the term ‘squatters’ for residents who have occupied the land for decades, expressing offense at such characterizations.

    The comprehensive project includes surveying the entire area and making necessary adjustments to ensure proper road access for emergency vehicles, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fully integrating these communities into formal infrastructure networks.