Carib Scope

分类： society

  • PLP candidate unveils tech and culture hub in Fort Charlotte

    PLP candidate unveils tech and culture hub in Fort Charlotte

    FORT CHARLOTTE, The Bahamas – A transformative community initiative has been launched with the official opening of the Fort Charlotte Technology, Arts & Culture Centre (FCTech), a premier facility designed to foster education, innovation, and economic empowerment. Spearheaded by Progressive Liberal Party candidate Sebas Bastian, the center’s inaugural phase was celebrated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by government ministers, community stakeholders, and enthusiastic supporters.

    The newly unveiled facility represents a significant investment in community infrastructure, featuring state-of-the-art technology training rooms, a fully-equipped computer laboratory, versatile community meeting spaces, an events lawn, and a dedicated business center. The comprehensive hub is strategically designed to serve multiple generations, offering tailored programs that address both educational and economic needs.

    Educational initiatives include specialized exam tutoring, technology mentorship programs, and enhanced computer access for students. For adult residents, the center will provide critical upskilling opportunities through financial literacy workshops, job readiness training, and leadership development programs. Additionally, the facility will serve as a venue for wellness activities and cultural events that celebrate local heritage.

    Mr. Bastian articulated the center’s long-term vision, stating: ‘This initiative transcends physical infrastructure—it represents our commitment to building a stronger future for Fort Charlotte. Residents will acquire essential digital competencies for our technology-driven world, while entrepreneurs gain access to vital resources to strengthen our local economy.’

    The project has received endorsement at the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis emphasized that the center reflects Mr. Bastian’s deliberate vision to create lasting community value, addressing resource gaps that prevent talented individuals from thriving. Current Fort Charlotte MP Alfred Sears, who has publicly endorsed Bastian as his successor, praised the center as exemplary of public service that genuinely benefits constituents.

    Phase two developments are already planned, featuring three advanced technology laboratories, a culinary arts academy, fitness center, and expanded entrepreneurial spaces. The FCTech center stands as a testament to collaborative community development designed to serve Fort Charlotte for generations to come.

  • ‘We luckier than plenty’

    ‘We luckier than plenty’

    In an extraordinary display of community solidarity, Zewei Zheng, proprietor of San San Haberdashery in St Ann’s Bay, has redirected his entire $1 million winnings from NCB’s Business Boost initiative toward humanitarian relief for families affected by Hurricane Melissa. The October storm caused significant damage across sections of Jamaica, leaving many households in dire need of essential supplies.

    Zheng, who secured second place in the promotional contest, demonstrated remarkable altruism by channeling the full prize amount into purchasing vital food items for distribution among storm-ravaged communities. When questioned about his motivation, the merchant responded in heartfelt Jamaican patois: ‘Time hard for everybody. Nuff hungry people around. We luckier than plenty. We help dem.’

    This act of generosity aligns with Zheng’s established reputation as a community-focused business leader. Having resided in St Ann’s Bay for over a decade, he maintains a consistent pattern of supporting local educational institutions including Marcus Garvey Technical High School and Priory Primary School, particularly during seasonal celebrations and academic cycles.

    The logistical execution of Zheng’s donation involved collaboration with the St Ann Municipal Corporation, facilitated through bilingual staff members who assisted with translation and coordination. The NCB Business Boost program itself offered total prizes of $3.5 million to merchants who conducted qualifying transactions exceeding $120,000 using NCB Visa Business Credit Cards.

    Danielle Cameron-Duncan, Acting Senior Vice-President for Payments and Channels at NCB, praised Zheng’s decision as emblematic of the profound community commitment exhibited by Jamaican entrepreneurs. ‘Mr. Zheng’s gesture serves as a powerful testament to how business owners transcend commercial success to become pillars of community support during times of crisis,’ she remarked.

    Cameron-Duncan further emphasized the broader socioeconomic impact of such actions, noting that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) constitute vital components of national resilience and local economic development. The initiative, while designed to reward card usage among commercial clients, ultimately revealed the deeply embedded philanthropic spirit within Jamaica’s business community.

  • Grant’s Bailey farmers take on rhizome rot with training and farm support

    Grant’s Bailey farmers take on rhizome rot with training and farm support

    Jamaican ginger producers from St. Ann’s Grant’s Bailey community convened Wednesday for a critical agricultural workshop targeting rhizome rot, a destructive pathogen threatening the nation’s spice industry. The collaborative training initiative, organized by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) with support from Newport-Fersan Jamaica and H&L Agro, provided hands-on instruction in disease management techniques at the Grants Bailey Tabernacle Church.

    Acting JACRA Director General Wayne Hunter emphasized the program’s significance: “These sessions are vital for protecting Jamaica’s spice sector. Ginger remains an essential economic pillar for rural communities, and rhizome rot continues to endanger island-wide production. Equipping farmers with proper identification, prevention, and treatment knowledge is imperative.”

    The workshop addressed rhizome rot (commonly called “soft rot”), a soil-borne disease caused by Fusarium pathogens and nematodes that propagates through contaminated planting materials. Without effective intervention, the disease can devastate entire ginger crops.

    Participants received comprehensive guidance on fungicide application protocols, therapeutic interventions, and agricultural best practices. Veteran farmer Glenroy Green, with over two decades of experience, noted: “This training revealed new chemical treatment options. Traditionally, we relied solely on rainfall and natural planting methods. Now we’ll implement these chemical solutions experimentally.”

    The urgency stems from dramatic production declines between 2015-2018 when Jamaica’s ginger output plummeted approximately 50% due to rhizome rot proliferation.

    H&L Agro Senior Agronomist Howard Williams stressed preventive measures: “Without pretreatment protocols, farmers risk substantial or total crop loss. Our Ridomil and Kocide fungicides provide essential control mechanisms against this disease.”

    Newport-Fersan technical experts elaborated on fertilizer optimization strategies, with Technical Sales Consultant Akeem Williams explaining: “Product knowledge ensures yield maximization. Appropriate fertilizer selection and stage-specific application are crucial for production protection.”

    The event concluded with 29 farmers receiving agricultural packages containing fertilizers and agro-chemicals to implement their newly acquired knowledge directly in the field.

  • Olympian Ferguson-McKenzie named wellness ambassador

    Olympian Ferguson-McKenzie named wellness ambassador

    The Bahamian government has launched a comprehensive national wellness program targeting primary and secondary students, appointing Olympic track and field legend Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie as its National Student Wellness Ambassador. This collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training and the Ministry of Health and Wellness represents a strategic response to the nation’s growing health crisis related to preventable chronic diseases.

    Mrs. Ferguson-McKenzie, a decorated athlete with three Olympic medals and five Olympic appearances, will spearhead the year-long campaign beginning March 2. Her role will focus on promoting nutrition education, physical activity, and sustainable healthy lifestyle practices among youth across all Bahamian islands.

    Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin emphasized the urgency of addressing the country’s alarming health statistics during the program’s announcement. “When examining our national health data—particularly regarding diabetes, hypertension, and related complications—it becomes evident that we face a substantial health emergency,” she stated. Minister Hanna-Martin cited research indicating that 80% of such conditions could be prevented through proper education in school environments.

    Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville reinforced this perspective, noting that “eighty percent of non-communicable diseases are preventable, meaning the majority of cases presenting at our tertiary healthcare facilities result from modifiable lifestyle factors.” He stressed that early intervention through schools represents a critical strategy for reducing long-term healthcare burdens.

    The program will implement a multifaceted approach including school visits, digital outreach, and nationwide media campaigns. Using a blended model of in-person engagements, virtual sessions, and student-led wellness challenges, the initiative aims to help students understand the vital connections between nutrition, discipline, physical activity, and lifelong health outcomes.

    Mrs. Ferguson-McKenzie expressed both honor and determination in accepting her ambassadorial role. “I approach this responsibility with utmost seriousness,” she affirmed. The Olympic medalist also highlighted the importance of collective community support, invoking the African proverb “It takes a village” to emphasize her non-judgmental, encouraging approach to working with students.

    Following the initial 12-month implementation period, government officials will conduct a comprehensive national review to assess student participation, engagement levels, and potential opportunities for expanding the wellness initiative within the educational system.

  • Miner beaten to death, others injured over claims of stolen gold

    Miner beaten to death, others injured over claims of stolen gold

    A violent confrontation at a remote gold mining operation in Guyana’s Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) has resulted in one fatality and two serious injuries, according to a Thursday police briefing. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning along the Siparuni River when three armed assailants allegedly assaulted several miners following accusations of stolen precious metal.

    The deceased has been identified as 32-year-old Rowell ‘Kabaloo’ La Cruz from Warapoka Village in the North West District. Two other miners—a 36-year-old from Greater Georgetown and North Rupununi, and a 25-year-old from Paramakatoi Village—sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment at healthcare facilities.

    Police reports indicate the altercation began when La Cruz and another miner were confronted in the kitchen area of the dredging operation camp. The suspects, allegedly armed with a handgun, cutlasses, and a mattock handle, accused them of extracting gold from a sluice box. The victims were then forcibly marched to a nearby watch camp where they encountered another individual before the brutal beating commenced.

    Following the assault, public-spirited citizens assisted the injured men toward the riverfront. Tragically, La Cruz succumbed to his injuries during transport. His body was subsequently located at a nearby camp with visible marks of violence, then escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex Mortuary. A post-mortem examination has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a manhunt for the three suspects believed responsible for the attack. The investigation continues as police work to piece together the precise circumstances surrounding the theft allegations and subsequent violence.

  • Repairs Underway at Government Printery

    Repairs Underway at Government Printery

    A comprehensive renovation initiative is now underway at the Government Printery facility, targeting significant improvements to workplace conditions and addressing critical sanitation issues. The development was formally announced during this week’s post-Cabinet media briefing, where government representatives outlined the scope of the ongoing upgrades.

    Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed that among the most pressing concerns being addressed is a persistent pigeon infestation that has plagued the building for an extended period. “Work has commenced at the government’s printery to enhance working conditions for employees,” Merchant stated. “A primary focus involves the removal of substantial pigeon populations that have established residence within the facility.”

    The remediation process involves carefully relocating the birds through humane methods as part of the initial cleanup phase. This essential first step will precede additional structural repairs and maintenance activities planned for the government printing operation.

    According to officials from the Ministry of Works, which is overseeing the project, these measures are designed to guarantee that staff members can perform their duties in both safe and hygienic surroundings. The improvements will simultaneously ensure the printery’s continuous operational capacity throughout the renovation period. Merchant emphasized that these upgrades specifically aim to provide workers with substantially improved environmental conditions for their professional activities.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Government Closing Bethesda Tissue Culture Lab as New Facility Planned

    Antigua and Barbuda Government Closing Bethesda Tissue Culture Lab as New Facility Planned

    In a strategic move to bolster national food security and agricultural output, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated a significant restructuring of its agricultural support system. The Cabinet has confirmed the imminent closure of the existing tissue culture laboratory in Bethesda. This decision, announced by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, paves the way for the establishment of a new, advanced agricultural facility.

    The core objective of this transition is to enhance plant propagation capabilities across the twin-island nation. The new center will be dedicated to the production of superior, disease-free planting materials. These high-quality resources are specifically intended for widespread distribution to local farmers and national agricultural programs, ensuring a healthier and more robust foundation for crop cultivation.

    Government officials project that this modernization initiative will yield substantial benefits, including a marked increase in crop production volumes and a significant improvement in the overall quality of plants available to the agricultural sector. By providing farmers with access to optimized planting material, the initiative aims to strengthen the resilience of local agriculture against diseases and climate vulnerabilities, thereby reinforcing long-term food security.

    Complementing this infrastructural upgrade, the government has also procured new agricultural machinery. This equipment has already arrived at the port and is slated for imminent deployment. The integration of this modern technology is designed to further empower farmers, directly supporting efforts to boost crop yields and overall production efficiency, marking a comprehensive investment in the future of the nation’s agriculture.

  • St. John’s Public Cemetery to Close to New Burials

    St. John’s Public Cemetery to Close to New Burials

    Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have formally announced the cessation of new interments at St. John’s Public Cemetery, marking the end of an era for the long-serving burial ground. The cabinet’s decision, revealed during a weekly media briefing, will be enforced starting late March, effectively closing the cemetery to new graves due to exhaustive capacity constraints.

    Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications within the Office of the Prime Minister, clarified the policy’s specifics. While new burial plots will no longer be allocated, the rights of families with pre-existing tombs will be preserved, allowing them to continue interring relatives in their designated family spaces. This measured approach aims to balance spatial limitations with respect for established familial connections to the site.

    The cemetery, having served the public for numerous decades, has simply exhausted its available space. This closure initiates a transitional phase for the grounds. Officials are now exploring a future reconceptualization of the area, potentially transforming it into a ‘tranquility park.’ This initiative seeks to repurpose the space respectfully, focusing on environmental enhancement and creating a serene public area while honoring its historical significance.

  • Former CIBC Building to Become New National Archives

    Former CIBC Building to Become New National Archives

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has formally authorized the transfer of its National Archives to a decommissioned banking facility at the intersection of High Street and Corn Alley. This strategic relocation aims to address critical preservation challenges by utilizing the former CIBC building’s specialized infrastructure.

    During the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, disclosed that the Ministry of Works will commence immediate retrofitting operations. The transition is projected to complete within an eight-week timeframe, potentially establishing operational capabilities at the new St. John’s location by early fall.

    The selection of the former financial institution represents a calculated preservation strategy. The building’s existing architectural features—particularly its numerous security vaults—provide ideal conditions for safeguarding historical materials. These fortified chambers maintain temperature-regulated environments essential for document conservation, addressing a crucial deficiency in the current facility.

    Merchant emphasized the urgency of relocation, citing significant structural deficiencies in the present archives building that jeopardize both personnel safety and document integrity. The move directly responds to these preservation emergencies while demonstrating the government’s commitment to heritage stewardship.

    The National Archives serves as the primary repository for the nation’s historical narrative, containing irreplaceable records spanning centuries of Antiguan and Barbudan development. This institutional transfer underscores the administration’s dedication to implementing innovative solutions for cultural conservation, ensuring future generations retain access to their historical legacy through professionally preserved artifacts.

  • Government Reaches Settlement in Long-Running Eloy De Freitas Case

    Government Reaches Settlement in Long-Running Eloy De Freitas Case

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has formally concluded one of the nation’s most protracted legal battles through a mutually agreed settlement with former public servant Eloy De Freitas. This resolution brings closure to a judicial matter that has persisted for nearly thirty years.

    Official confirmation emerged during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, where government representatives announced the amicable resolution of De Freitas vs the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Lands and Housing. The settlement follows extensive negotiations between both parties involved in the historic litigation.

    The origins of this legal confrontation trace back to 1990 when Mr. De Freitas, then serving as an extension officer within the Ministry of Agriculture, engaged in peaceful demonstrations highlighting allegations of governmental corruption. These protests occurred in the aftermath of a national commission of inquiry, marking a significant moment in the country’s administrative history.

    Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, articulated the government’s position, stating that Cabinet members unanimously approved the settlement based on principles of justice and national reconciliation. “The Cabinet announced that it has amicably resolved that long-standing legal matter involving the former public servant, Eloy De Freitas, bringing conclusion to a dispute that has spanned near three decades,” Merchant declared during the official briefing.

    The comprehensive agreement addresses all outstanding issues between the parties, including provisions for the payment of mutually accepted legal costs. While the specific financial terms remain confidential, the settlement represents a significant administrative achievement for both the government and the citizen involved.

    Merchant emphasized the broader implications of this resolution, noting that “The settlement brings finality to a matter after many years of litigation and reflects a shared commitment to fairness and respect for the rule of law.” This conclusion not only ends one of Antigua and Barbuda’s longest-running legal disputes but also demonstrates the government’s dedication to upholding judicial principles and administrative accountability.