Carib Scope

分类： society

  • PRESS RELEASE: Dominica’s Vanya David, a community leader who champions gender equality and healthy eating, recognized by IICA as Leader of Rurality of the Americas

    PRESS RELEASE: Dominica’s Vanya David, a community leader who champions gender equality and healthy eating, recognized by IICA as Leader of Rurality of the Americas

    ROSEAU, Dominica – From her roots in a western coastal community where fishing and agriculture defined existence, Vanya David has emerged as a formidable advocate for gender equality and sustainable development. The President of the Dominica National Council of Women draws inspiration from her family heritage—a fisherman father and farming mother—which instilled in her the core philosophy: “What you need to eat is what you grow.”

    Leading an organization with decades of impact, David coordinates crisis prevention, community strengthening, and technical training programs in partnership with Dominica’s Ministry of Agriculture and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). Her dedication recently earned her the prestigious Soul of Rurality award from IICA, recognizing her influence in advancing food security and sustainability across the Americas.

    Yet David’s vision is grounded in practical challenges. She highlights rural transportation as a critical barrier, especially for women seeking economic independence. Limited road access complicates market connectivity, increasing costs and reducing profitability. Climate volatility further strains agricultural stability, with rapid shifts between sun, rain, and wind demanding careful crop planning.

    Supported by national and international agencies, greenhouse initiatives are gradually improving resilience in suitable regions. David emphasizes that successful farming requires not only planting skills but also astute climate adaptation. Her work also extends to fisheries, training women in safe fishing practices and fish conservation while addressing logistical hurdles in product distribution.

    Addressing youth engagement, David notes that land access, startup financing, and modern tools are essential to attract new generations to agriculture. She contrasts nutrient-rich local produce with processed convenience foods dominating urban diets, advocating strongly for local production as a path to better nutrition.

    Despite acknowledging the hardships of rural life—infrastructure gaps, climate setbacks, and market barriers—David unwaveringly promotes farming as a source of autonomy, health, and environmental harmony. Her conviction echoes a lifetime of experience: “It is better to grow what you eat, and eat what you grow.”

  • ‘He Was Hard Working, Friendly and Kind’

    ‘He Was Hard Working, Friendly and Kind’

    The community of Lord Banks Village in Belize District is grappling with the tragic loss of 35-year-old security guard Darwin Valerio, who was fatally shot while performing his duties on January 23, 2026. Valerio, employed by Ranger Security Company, was discovered with two gunshot wounds at the Belize Water Service warehouse where he was stationed.

    According to police reports, Valerio had embarked on a routine perimeter check around 8:20 p.m. but failed to return from his rounds. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident.

    In the aftermath of the tragedy, social media platforms have become a space for collective mourning as family, friends, and community members share their grief and memories. Valerio was universally remembered as a dedicated professional known for his hardworking nature, friendly demeanor, and kind-hearted personality.

    One family member’s emotional online tribute captured the profound sense of loss: ‘Darwin you broke me fam, and you would do anything for me when I ask… The bond we share, all the calls on the phone… cuz whyyy you.’ The Wabagari Dance Group added their condolences, stating ‘His life was cut short. May his Soul Rest in peace, you didn’t deserve this.’

    A disturbing detail emerged from a family member’s account, revealing that Valerio’s sister was on the phone with him during the incident and reportedly heard him ‘yelling for help suddenly’ before the connection was lost. The family has issued public appeals for assistance in contacting the security company as they seek answers about the tragic events that claimed Valerio’s life.

  • Antigua and Barbuda announces public holidays for 2026 and opens consultations on workplace violence bill

    Antigua and Barbuda announces public holidays for 2026 and opens consultations on workplace violence bill

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has simultaneously released its official 2026 public holiday calendar and initiated nationwide consultations on groundbreaking workplace safety legislation. The dual announcements from the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Immigration and Labour signal significant developments in both national scheduling and worker protections.

    According to the Office of the Labour Commissioner, the 2026 public holidays have been formally established under the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act 2005. The comprehensive schedule includes New Year’s Day (January 1), Good Friday (April 3), Easter Monday (April 6), and Labour Day (May 4). The calendar further features Whit Monday (May 25), Carnival celebrations (August 3-4), National Day of Prayer (September 17), and Independence Day observance (November 2). The year concludes with V.C. Bird Day (December 9), Christmas Day (December 25), and Boxing Day (December 26).

    Concurrently, the government has unveiled the Workplace Violence and Harassment (Prevention) Draft Bill, legislation designed to transform occupational safety standards. Developed in alignment with international labor conventions, the proposed bill aims to establish a robust legal framework for preventing workplace violence and fostering respectful, secure working environments.

    The Ministry has organized an extensive consultation tour to ensure the legislation incorporates diverse stakeholder perspectives. Scheduled sessions include: January 28 at the Multipurpose Centre, February 5 at Villa Community Centre, February 11 at J.T. Ambrose Primary School, and February 18 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. All consultations will commence at 5:30 PM, providing accessible opportunities for public participation.

    Government officials emphasize the importance of citizen engagement in both initiatives, encouraging workers, employers, unions, and community organizations to contribute to the legislative process while noting the officially published holiday schedule for planning purposes.

  • Government of Grenada makes significant investment in COMS-PAN

    Government of Grenada makes significant investment in COMS-PAN

    The Grenadian government has launched a substantial cultural investment initiative exceeding EC$650,000 through its Community Steelpan Programme (COMS-PAN), signaling a strategic commitment to youth development and cultural preservation across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. The program officially commenced in Carriacou on January 16, 2026, with targeted participation of 20 youth per parish in selected communities.

    Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture Minister Adrian Thomas characterized the investment as foundational to Grenada’s cultural future, emphasizing that national development extends beyond physical infrastructure. “Investment doesn’t always refer to roads, bridges or buildings. We must also invest in music and culture,” Minister Thomas stated. He compared the creative economy’s potential to “a volcano, just waiting to erupt,” noting its capacity to generate foreign exchange comparable to traditional exports like nutmeg and cocoa.

    The government’s vision includes achieving self-sufficiency in steelpan production and maintenance. While initial instruments were sourced from Trinidad, Minister Thomas outlined plans to develop local expertise: “We want to develop our own tuners. We do not want to continue depending on others. We want to build our own capacity.”

    Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs Minister Tevin Andrews welcomed the program as tangible action against cultural decline. “This is not lip service. We recognise the challenges facing our culture, and while some say it is dying, we are taking deliberate action to revive it,” Minister Andrews asserted. He expressed aspirations to reestablish steelpan music across communities as historically present in L’Esterre, Harvey Vale, Six Roads, Mt Royal and Bogles.

    Chief Cultural Officer Kelvin Jacob explained that COMS-PAN addresses systemic challenges including instrument accessibility and the absence of structured musical ensembles. “The goal is to expand community steelpan ensembles as hubs for youth development, cultural celebration and sustainable growth,” Jacob noted, adding that the vision includes training arrangers, tuners and manufacturers to ensure long-term cultural sustainability.

    The program will operate from the Mt Royal panhouse, home of Shakespeare Mas, with weekly classes scheduled Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-7 PM.

  • Government Reviews Upgrades to National Laboratory Services

    Government Reviews Upgrades to National Laboratory Services

    The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated a comprehensive strategy to revolutionize the nation’s forensic and analytical laboratory capabilities. During a pivotal session, Cabinet members received detailed briefings from two leading scientific authorities on urgent modernization requirements for the country’s diagnostic infrastructure.

    Forensic Director Michael Murrell, Head of Antigua and Barbuda Forensic Services, presented a multi-faceted plan addressing critical gaps in national laboratory services. His presentation emphasized three fundamental pillars: infrastructure modernization, expanded testing capacities, and developing sustainable funding mechanisms. Specific facility upgrades were highlighted, including essential renovations at Point Wharf to optimize operational functionality and create adequate workspaces for technical staff. Similar improvements were proposed for the Dunbar’s facility to enhance sample processing capabilities.

    Murrell particularly stressed the growing national need for advanced compliance testing methodologies, especially for cannabis-infused products entering regulated markets. Additionally, he identified pesticide residue testing as a crucial public health priority requiring immediate capability enhancements to safeguard food safety standards.

    Dr. Linroy Christian, Director of the Department of Analytical Services, provided complementary insights regarding the nation’s primary testing laboratory for food, water, and environmental samples. Both experts underscored the strategic importance of robust laboratory services for national development across multiple sectors.

    The Cabinet has formally requested both officials to return with concrete recommendations for potentially consolidating all government laboratory operations under a unified framework. This includes developing a sustainable financing model that would ensure continuous reinvestment in advanced equipment, specialized staffing, and ongoing operational improvements.

  • Public Invited to Review Environmental Study for North Beach Project

    Public Invited to Review Environmental Study for North Beach Project

    Antigua’s Department of Environment has initiated a formal public consultation period regarding a comprehensive Environmental Impact Study for a proposed Engineered Water Management System at North Beach, Jolly Harbour. This procedural step represents a critical component of the nation’s environmental governance framework, emphasizing transparency and community engagement in developmental planning.

    The governmental body has explicitly characterized public participation as an indispensable element within the environmental assessment protocol. Officials emphasize that gathering diverse stakeholder perspectives is fundamental to achieving a holistic evaluation, ensuring that ecological considerations, social implications, and coastal dynamics receive thorough scrutiny prior to any definitive project approvals.

    The extensive study documentation, now accessible for public examination, provides a detailed analysis of the project’s potential environmental consequences. It further delineates a series of scientifically-grounded mitigation strategies specifically designed to address and responsibly manage identified risks to the local coastline and broader ecosystem. The initiative underscores a commitment to balancing infrastructural development with stringent environmental stewardship.

  • Lone survivor: $m payment, ‘breath of fresh air’

    Lone survivor: $m payment, ‘breath of fresh air’

    Christopher Boodram, the lone survivor of the devastating 2022 Paria diving incident, has characterized the Trinidad and Tobago government’s $1 million ex gratia payment as a “breath of fresh air” during a January 23 appearance on the state-operated TTT’s TT Today program.

    Boodram revealed his continued inability to resume work since the February 25, 2022 tragedy that claimed the lives of four fellow divers—Faizal Kurban, Yusuff Henry, Rishi Nagessar, and Kazim Ali Jr. The maintenance operation on a 30-inch subsea pipeline at Berth 6 in Pointe-a-Pierre turned catastrophic when a sudden differential pressure event (Delta P) violently pulled the crew into the conduit.

    “My capacity to practice my professional skills remains compromised,” Boodram explained. “This created severe financial strain as all responsibilities—bills, loans, and household expenses—fell solely upon my wife. This compensation represents crucial relief.”

    The survivor disclosed deepened bonds with the families of his deceased colleagues, noting the payments would substantially aid their financial stability after losing primary earners. He expressed particular gratitude to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her cabinet for approving the disbursement.

    Boodram offered sharp criticism toward the previous administration, accusing them of treating affected families “like dogs” through inadequate support and political manipulation. He described a scripted meeting with former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley that allowed minimal genuine dialogue, and condemned subsequent leader Stuart Young for allegedly using the tragedy as “an election gimmick.”

    Young, interviewed outside the Red House, acknowledged satisfaction that families received payments originally approved by his cabinet in April 2025, though he characterized the current administration’s action as “nothing new.” He referenced governmental challenges in navigating legal complexities while attempting to provide interim support during ongoing court proceedings.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar personally distributed payments to Boodram and two families at the Diplomatic Centre on January 22, with confirmation that remaining families would receive compensation shortly.

  • Funeral of late journalist Donald Oliver ongoing

    Funeral of late journalist Donald Oliver ongoing

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican media community gathered in solemn tribute at the University of the West Indies Mona Chapel to honor the life and legacy of esteemed sports journalist Donald Oliver, whose sudden passing on December 30th sent shockwaves through the nation’s media landscape. The veteran journalist, who had dedicated two decades to sports reporting across prominent media outlets including CVM, SportsMax, and Jamaica Observer, succumbed unexpectedly after experiencing chest pains.

    The emotional thanksgiving service, streamed live via YouTube channel LiveStreamJA, drew hundreds of virtual attendees whose condolences flooded the commentary section, reflecting Oliver’s profound impact on both professional circles and personal connections. The ceremony highlighted not only Oliver’s professional accomplishments but also his cherished roles as husband and father.

    In a moving tribute, Oliver’s wife Noretta painted an intimate portrait of their life journey together, beginning in Allman Town. ‘What we shared was beautiful,’ she emotionally recounted, noting how fatherhood revealed even greater dimensions of his character. She described the extraordinary bond between Oliver and their daughter Zabella, and reflected on his sports journalism career as a true vocation rather than merely professional pursuit.

    Jamaica Observer Managing Director Dominic Beaubrun eulogized Oliver as ‘a consummate professional deeply committed, consistently enthusiastic and unwavering in his delivery of quality and excellence,’ while simultaneously recognizing his innate warmth and kindness that distinguished his interpersonal relationships.

    The memorial service featured tributes from notable figures including Minister of Sport Olivia Grange and Dr. Coleen Beckles of Love 101 radio, underscoring Oliver’s significant standing within both sports media and broader Jamaican society. Photographs from the service captured poignant moments of familial comfort and respectful homage, illustrating the deep personal and professional void left by Oliver’s untimely departure.

  • Naps Girls, BATCE students take President’s Medal – while 105 schols awarded

    Naps Girls, BATCE students take President’s Medal – while 105 schols awarded

    In a significant recognition of academic achievement, the Trinidad and Tobago government has announced the recipients of the prestigious 2026 President’s Medals for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE). Elizabeth Singh of Naparima Girls High School and Aliya Serrette of Bishop Anstey High School and Trinity College East (BATCE) have been honored as the nation’s top performers in their respective academic categories.

    The announcement was formally made by Professor Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, during a January 23 session in the House of Representatives. Minister Persad revealed that alongside these honors, the government will disburse 105 national scholarships totaling $35.8 million, representing an increase from the 103 scholarships awarded in 2025.

    Academic excellence was categorized into two distinct fields. Singh emerged as the outstanding student in the Environmental Studies, Information Communication Technology, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences division. Serrette distinguished herself in the Business Studies, Creative Writing and Performance Studies, General Studies, Modern Studies and Humanities, Language Studies, and Technical Studies category.

    The scholarship allocation comprises 47 open scholarships and 58 additional scholarships, as approved by the Cabinet based on recommendations from the Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training. Demographic data shows 39 male and 66 female recipients among the scholars.

    Minister Persad emphasized the ongoing accountability requirements for scholarship recipients, noting that their academic performance will be monitored by the ministry’s scholarship department throughout their studies. Scholars must maintain the required cumulative grade point average to continue receiving support.

    The minister extended congratulations to all awardees, highlighting that their achievements bring pride to the government, ministry, nation, families, and educational institutions. The nation anticipates their future contributions to national development upon successful completion of their studies.

  • Man shot by federal agents in Minneapolis has died: US media

    Man shot by federal agents in Minneapolis has died: US media

    MINNEAPOLIS — A fatal encounter between federal agents and an armed individual in Minneapolis has resulted in the death of the man involved, according to statements from local authorities and federal officials. The city’s Police Chief confirmed the death to U.S. media outlets on Saturday, marking a troubling recurrence of lethal force incidents in the region. This event occurs less than three weeks after the fatal shooting of Renee Good, amplifying community concerns and scrutiny over the use of force.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in an official statement to AFP, acknowledged that its agents were involved in an operation where the individual was armed. However, the federal department declined to provide specific details regarding the sequence of events or to formally confirm the fatality, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The lack of immediate transparency has drawn criticism from public figures and community advocates.

    Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a strong condemnation of the incident, characterizing it as ‘another horrific shooting’ and calling for a thorough and impartial review. The shooting has reignited debates over policing protocols, interagency cooperation, and the broader issue of gun violence, placing renewed pressure on both local and federal law enforcement to address systemic challenges and enhance accountability measures.