Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Directorate of Gender Affairs Opens Nominations for International Women’s Day 2026 Spotlight Series

    Directorate of Gender Affairs Opens Nominations for International Women’s Day 2026 Spotlight Series

    The Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA) in Antigua and Barbuda has officially commenced its nomination process for the International Women’s Day 2026 Spotlight Series, initiating a nationwide search for exceptional female philanthropists whose transformative contributions have significantly impacted local communities.

    Aligned with the 2026 theme ‘Give to Gain,’ this initiative seeks to identify and celebrate women who have demonstrated remarkable dedication to community upliftment through selfless service and resource allocation. The program specifically targets individuals whose generosity has created tangible social improvements across the nation.

    DoGA has extended an open invitation to public members, community organizations, and institutional bodies to submit nominations for women exemplifying leadership through actionable compassion. Ideal candidates are those who consistently dedicate time, assets, and emotional support to enhance societal welfare without seeking recognition.

    The selection criteria emphasize transformative contributions in multiple domains including exceptional community service, advocacy for vulnerable populations, youth empowerment initiatives, compassionate leadership, and sustainable change creation. This recognition program forms an integral component of DoGA’s annual International Women’s Day observances, designed to illuminate the frequently overlooked contributions of women driving national development through quiet, consistent action.

    The nomination window will remain open until February 18, 2026, with submission guidelines available through DoGA’s offices at Lower Nevis Street or via telephone consultation at 1 (268) 560-5207. The Directorate emphasizes the importance of public participation in identifying deserving candidates whose altruistic efforts embody the spirit of transformative giving worthy of national acknowledgment.

  • AMPYOU Mental Health Tour to return in February

    AMPYOU Mental Health Tour to return in February

    A groundbreaking mental health initiative harnessing the therapeutic power of artistic expression is revolutionizing emotional wellness education across Saint Lucian schools. Jamaican-American choreographer and life coach Khaja J, in partnership with dancer Jamaal ‘MOX’ Bruce, has pioneered Tallawah Caribe – an organization dedicated to fostering emotional resilience through movement and creative arts.

    Founded in early 2025, the organization has launched its flagship A More Positive You (AMPYOU) Mental Health School Tour, bringing innovative psychological tools to Caribbean youth. The program represents a significant departure from conventional mental health approaches, instead employing dance, creative expression, and group activities as primary modalities for emotional development.

    Between November 14 and December 4, 2025, the initiative reached eight educational institutions including Castries Comprehensive Secondary, Corinth Secondary, and St. Mary’s College. The program’s overwhelming success has prompted an expanded second phase commencing February 2026, now incorporating teacher participation and enhanced creative components.

    “Our methodology provides practical tools for mental health management while creating safe spaces for vulnerability without judgment,” Khaja explained to St. Lucia Times. The program’s unique approach stems from her personal journey using dance to overcome life challenges, demonstrating how artistic expression can communicate experiences beyond verbal capabilities.

    Bruce emphasized the program’s broader educational value: “We’re introducing students to emotional intelligence concepts and authentic relationship-building within their communities and daily lives.”

    The initiative has gained official endorsement through collaboration with Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation. The structured curriculum incorporates group discussions, trivia games, interactive Q&A sessions, creative activities, and physical exercise.

    Looking beyond Saint Lucia, Tallawah Caribe envisions regional expansion throughout the Caribbean. Khaja confirms ambitious plans to “visit countries throughout the Caribbean to implement similar programs, ensuring consistent impact across the region” where alignment with local educational objectives exists.

  • Auto body technician arrested for attempted murder in West Demerara

    Auto body technician arrested for attempted murder in West Demerara

    A 39-year-old auto body technician from La Grange, West Bank Demerara, is now in police custody following a violent attack on a 34-year-old woman that authorities are investigating as attempted murder. The incident occurred Tuesday evening at approximately 7 PM in the same village where both individuals reside.

    According to police reports, the victim was seated on her front veranda with family members when an assailant described as an unidentified masked male dressed in dark clothing forced his way into the property. The individual, reportedly armed with a handgun, launched a direct physical assault on the woman.

    The attack escalated as the victim attempted to flee to safety. Police indicate she was pursued into a neighboring yard where she was struck from behind, causing her to fall and sustain significant injuries to her head and body. During the altercation, the assailant allegedly discharged two rounds from his firearm in her direction before successfully escaping the scene.

    Law enforcement officials confirmed the discovery of a suspected 9mm spent shell at the location. Additionally, investigators have identified relevant CCTV footage in the vicinity that is currently being processed as part of the ongoing evidence collection. The victim, identified as a self-employed resident of Dr. Doctor, was transported to a private medical facility where she remains admitted for treatment of her injuries.

    The suspect was subsequently apprehended by authorities and is currently being held in connection with the attempted murder investigation. The case continues to develop as police work to establish motive and complete their evidentiary review.

  • Youths attempted to rob man at Windsor Forest foreshore- police

    Youths attempted to rob man at Windsor Forest foreshore- police

    Authorities in Guyana have made significant progress in a disturbing case of public violence that was captured on social media. The Guyana Police Force confirmed Wednesday that three male suspects have been taken into custody following an attempted robbery and assault incident at First Lady Park in Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara.

    The investigation began after viral footage showed three individuals violently attacking a man at the popular recreational area. According to police statements, the victim—a 21-year-old resident of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo—came forward on Monday to identify himself as the person seen being assaulted in the circulating video.

    Police investigators established that the incident occurred when the complainant was approached while seated at the park. The trio allegedly assaulted him and attempted to steal his cellular phone. Fortunately, the victim managed to retain possession of his property despite the physical altercation.

    The breakthrough in the case came on Sunday when law enforcement officials traced the getaway vehicle, bearing license plate PGG 6502, to its registered owner in Zeelugt. This led them to a 17-year-old male suspect who subsequently cooperated with authorities in locating two additional suspects: an 18-year-old from Zeelugt and a 16-year-old from Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara.

    Disturbing details emerged from preliminary investigations, with video evidence showing one of the assailants pulling what appeared to be a knife from his waistband during the assault. The footage also captured concerned bystanders shouting at the perpetrators to cease their attack on the victim.

    All three suspects remain in custody at Leonora Police Station along with the impounded vehicle as investigations continue. The case highlights growing concerns about youth involvement in violent crimes and the role of social media in both documenting criminal acts and assisting law enforcement efforts.

  • Enforcement of road traffic laws a priority, says Blackman

    Enforcement of road traffic laws a priority, says Blackman

    Following a morning collision in St. Thomas involving schoolchildren, former Education Minister Chad Blackman has issued a strong call for enhanced enforcement of road traffic regulations and increased accountability for student transportation providers. The incident, which occurred around 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, prompted emergency response from Barbados Fire Service crews to a two-vehicle collision with multiple occupants, including students en route to school.

    Authorities confirmed that while injuries were sustained, none were life-threatening, with several individuals receiving assessment and treatment directly at the scene. Investigations into the precise circumstances of the crash remain ongoing by police.

    Blackman emphasized that entities responsible for transporting students bear not merely moral but legal obligations to ensure safety standards. ‘Public service vehicles and all organizations transporting our students have a duty by law to operate in a manner that does not compromise the safety of our children or any road user,’ he stated.

    Fire officials disclosed that one vehicle was operated by a 16-year-old driver with a 13-year-old passenger. Police reports indicated that two students from a public service vehicle and two from the other vehicle were among those injured.

    The former minister identified enforcement as the pivotal element in preventing recurrences, asserting that existing legislation already provides adequate measures against road deviance and poor driving practices. ‘The law books are clear regarding how we address misconduct on the roads. What must happen now is enforcement,’ Blackman reiterated.

    He further revealed that the Ministry of Education would strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Works and the Barbados Police Service to ensure strict adherence to student transportation regulations. Blackman added that demonstrating consequences for those who disregard the law is essential, stating that ‘rule of law and order must be paramount in all of this.’

    In response to the accident, the Ministry of Educational Transformation deployed secondary school officers to support affected students. The ministry maintains communication with police and will continue monitoring the injured students’ conditions while providing necessary assistance. Police investigations continue to determine the full details surrounding the collision.

  • The government is not ignoring pipe replacement, Minister says

    The government is not ignoring pipe replacement, Minister says

    The Antigua and Barbuda government has announced a strategic prioritization of immediate water production increases over comprehensive pipeline replacement to tackle the nation’s pressing water shortage crisis. Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas, during a recent appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Taking Stock’ program, provided detailed insights into the country’s water infrastructure challenges.

    Minister Nicholas revealed that a substantial portion of the nation’s water distribution network consists of corroded cast-iron pipes exceeding 50 years of service. These aging conduits have deteriorated significantly over time, contributing to persistent issues including water discoloration and substantial leakage problems throughout the system.

    The government’s current approach focuses on enhancing potable water production capacity despite recognizing that increased output places additional strain on the compromised infrastructure. Nicholas explained that this temporary measure is necessary to provide residents with relief from immediate water shortages while long-term solutions are developed.

    Regarding the pipeline replacement initiative, the minister confirmed the securing of external grant funding valued at approximately US$60 million dedicated to infrastructure modernization. However, he emphasized the monumental scale of the undertaking, noting that the network spans hundreds of miles across the nation, requiring a phased implementation approach due to both systemic complexity and logistical considerations.

    While replacement work has commenced in critically affected areas, Nicholas stressed that production improvements cannot be delayed pending full infrastructure overhaul. The government’s dual-focused strategy aims to address both immediate citizen needs and long-term water system sustainability through this carefully balanced approach.

  • Seven schools progress to round two of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition

    Seven schools progress to round two of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition

    The 2026 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition has commenced with exceptional vigor, showcasing remarkable intellectual talent across Dominica’s educational landscape. Seven institutions have successfully advanced to the second round following a challenging knockout phase held on January 22nd and 23rd.

    This year’s competition introduced a groundbreaking format shift, moving away from traditional team-based debates to a focus on individual excellence. Each participating school was represented by a single student, with advancement determined exclusively by individual performance scores rather than collective team results.

    The inaugural debate session on January 22nd featured six schools engaging with the environmentally-conscious motion: ‘Local communities should have veto power over projects that significantly affect their environment.’ Participants included Orion Academy, Isaiah Thomas Secondary School, Wesley High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Convent High School, and Arthur Waldron Seventh-Day Adventist Academy.

    The competition intensified on January 23rd as Castle Bruce Secondary School, St. Martin Secondary School, and Portsmouth Secondary School addressed the socio-economic proposition: ‘The legal driving age in Dominica should be lowered to increase youth independence and national productivity.’

    Seven exceptional debaters emerged victorious through their outstanding performances. Leading the scoreboard was Shanaiyah John from St. Martin Secondary School, achieving an impressive 341 points. Close behind were Hephzibah Abenole of Wesley High School (328 points) and Taya Charles from Orion Academy (320 points). The qualifying cohort further included Sienna Andrew (Convent High School, 317 points), Maliah Ettienne (Portsmouth Secondary, 302 points), Isaac Roberts (Castle Bruce Secondary, 299 points), and Kianna Aaron (Isaiah Thomas Secondary, 288 points).

    Narrowly missing advancement were Lucas Sorhaindo of St. Mary’s Academy (286 points) and Khaleed Colaire from Arthur Waldron Seventh-Day Adventist Academy (263 points).

    These seven qualifying schools will progress to Round Two, scheduled for February 25th and 26th, where they will be joined by defending champions Dominica Grammar School.

    Event organizer Trudy Christian characterized the preliminary round as both challenging and enlightening, noting that the exceptional performances indicate 2026 will be a landmark year for debating excellence. Christian specifically acknowledged main sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd. for their sustained commitment to youth development and fostering substantive national discourse through educational initiatives.

  • APUA to Take Responsibility for Road Reinstatement by June, Utilities Minister Says

    APUA to Take Responsibility for Road Reinstatement by June, Utilities Minister Says

    In a significant policy shift aimed at resolving a perennial infrastructure issue, Antigua’s Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas has announced that the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) will assume full responsibility for road reinstatement following underground utility works starting this June. The announcement was made during Minister Nicholas’s appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Taking Stock’ program, where he characterized the current situation as a ‘long-standing and deeply entrenched problem.’

    The minister detailed how the existing system created a vicious cycle of infrastructure deterioration: newly repaired or resurfaced roads would frequently be excavated shortly afterward for utility repairs, leading to premature damage and repeated financial burdens on the state. This decades-old practice, according to Nicholas, has consistently compromised road quality nationwide while creating ongoing inconveniences for motorists and pedestrians.

    Under the new framework, APUA will be required to restore excavated roads to acceptable standards immediately upon completion of their underground works, rather than leaving this task to the Public Works Department after the fact. This approach marks a fundamental restructuring of accountability mechanisms, with Nicholas emphasizing that ‘clearer coordination and defined responsibility’ are essential for achieving longer road service life.

    While specific enforcement mechanisms were not outlined during the broadcast, the minister positioned this policy change as a deliberate corrective to systemic failures that have persisted across generations. The initiative represents an effort to institutionalize higher standards and greater accountability within the country’s infrastructure development processes, potentially ending a pattern that has plagued Antigua’s transportation network for decades.

  • Tevin Willock Sentenced to Seven Months’ Imprisonment for escaping custody

    Tevin Willock Sentenced to Seven Months’ Imprisonment for escaping custody

    In a decisive ruling at the Magistrate’s Court of Antigua and Barbuda, Tevin Willock of Green Bay has been ordered to serve a seven-month custodial sentence after admitting guilt to two criminal charges. The verdict was delivered on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, by Magistrate Mighty following Willock’s confession to the crimes of Escaping Lawful Custody and Malicious Damage.

    The judicial proceedings revealed that Willock executed an escape from the St. John’s Police Station, subsequently evading authorities for a period before his capture. Law enforcement agencies initiated an extensive manhunt, issuing public alerts and conducting specialized operations to secure his apprehension. The breakthrough occurred when police units focused their efforts in the Gray’s Farm district, successfully locating and returning the fugitive to custody.

    Magistrate Mighty imposed a six-month incarceration term for the jailbreak violation, supplemented by an additional one-month sentence for the property destruction offense, mandating consecutive service of both penalties at His Majesty’s Prison.

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has formally acknowledged the collaborative role played by community members in facilitating Willock’s recapture. In an official statement, the Police Administration expressed profound appreciation for public cooperation, emphasizing its essential contribution to law enforcement effectiveness and the preservation of societal security across the nation.

  • Government of Antigua and Barbuda to Host Executive Committee Meeting of the Council of Legal Education

    Government of Antigua and Barbuda to Host Executive Committee Meeting of the Council of Legal Education

    Antigua and Barbuda has been selected as the host nation for the biannual Executive Committee meeting of the Council of Legal Education (CLE), scheduled for January 30-31, 2026. The high-level gathering will convene at the prestigious St. James Club and Villas, marking a significant moment for Caribbean legal education collaboration.

    Established over five decades ago, the Council of Legal Education maintains its critical role in standardizing legal training across Caribbean nations while ensuring adherence to the highest ethical benchmarks within the profession. The Executive Committee functions as the primary administrative and strategic authority, directing regional legal education policies, overseeing law school operations, and formulating long-term developmental strategies.

    The upcoming summit will bring together Executive Committee members and Attorneys General from throughout the Caribbean region for intensive strategic dialogues. Key agenda items include enhancing operational effectiveness of CLE-affiliated law schools, addressing financial sustainability challenges, reviewing regulatory frameworks, and advancing the broader mission of legal education excellence across the Caribbean basin.

    Hon. Sir Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin, Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, expressed profound honor regarding Antigua and Barbuda’s selection as host nation. ‘This prestigious gathering underscores our nation’s growing prominence in legal education leadership,’ Minister Benjamin stated, reaffirming the government’s dedication to fostering professional excellence and ethical integrity within the legal sector.

    The announcement reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s established track record in producing exceptional legal talent, with numerous graduates from regional law schools achieving distinction both within the Ministry of Legal Affairs and through private practice across the Caribbean region. The government anticipates the 2026 meeting will further solidify the nation’s contributions to advancing legal education standards throughout the Caribbean community.