Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Directorate of Gender Affairs Celebrates Spotlight Series Honourees and Successful International Women’s Day Health Fair

    Directorate of Gender Affairs Celebrates Spotlight Series Honourees and Successful International Women’s Day Health Fair

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Directorate of Gender Affairs successfully commemorated International Women’s Day 2026 through a dual initiative combining its ‘Give to Gain’ Spotlight Series with a comprehensive community Health Fair. The March 6th event served as both a celebration of women’s achievements and a practical resource hub for community wellness.

    The ceremony commenced with the recognition of four distinguished women honored for their exceptional community impact and service. Judith Peets, Azara Lavia, Rita Phillip-Harris, and Tanya Ambrose received Spotlight Series awards for their leadership and dedication to uplifting others, establishing an inspirational tone for the day’s proceedings.

    Concurrent with the awards ceremony, the Health Fair attracted substantial community participation with over sixty attendees accessing vital health services and educational resources. The event leveraged a robust collaborative network including the Medical Benefits Scheme, Planned Parenthood, Caribbean Pharmaceuticals, AIDS Secretariat, EyeMobile, Ministry of Health, Happy Healthy You, and the Antigua and Barbuda Network of Rural Women Producers/Processors.

    Niketa Black, Senior Programme Officer and Coordinator for International Women’s Day 2026, emphasized the significance of the event: ‘The Spotlight Series enables us to publicly honor women who lead with purpose and give back in ways that uplift others. We are particularly encouraged by the strong turnout and partner participation that made the Health Fair both meaningful and accessible to the community.’

    The Directorate acknowledged substantial support from sponsors including the Citizenship by Investment Unit, Premier Beverages, Sagicor, Stonewall Reloaded, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Special Security Services, Perry Bay Supermarket, Barbara Carr, and Joy Saunders.

    This integrated approach demonstrates the Directorate’s ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality, strengthening community wellbeing, and creating platforms that simultaneously celebrate women’s achievements while providing practical support and services to the public.

  • Women Gather for Empowerment and Connection at 4th Annual VIP Women’s Conference

    Women Gather for Empowerment and Connection at 4th Annual VIP Women’s Conference

    The John E. St. Luce Conference Centre in Antigua and Barbuda became a hub of female empowerment on March 8th as it hosted the 4th Annual VIP Women’s Conference. Organized by renowned author and consultant Koren Norton, the brunch-themed gathering attracted over 150 women from diverse backgrounds for a day dedicated to personal growth and collective support.

    The event commenced with a distinctive performance piece orchestrated by Dr. Monica Osborne-Stevens, featuring three women symbolically planting and nurturing seeds—a powerful metaphor for personal development that established the conference’s thematic foundation.

    Highlighting the program were three impactful speakers who shared profound personal journeys. Tasheka Lavann, Antigua and Barbuda’s Jubilee Queen of Carnival, delivered an emotionally charged address detailing her path through healing and tenacity. Her central message emphasized rejecting external limitations and maintaining self-worth amid adversity.

    Senator Jamilla Kirwan, a cancer survivor and mother of two, explored the concept of ‘Connections’ with remarkable vulnerability. She articulated the critical importance of building supportive networks both professionally and personally, crediting her ‘village’ of women for providing essential support during her cancer treatment and recovery.

    Jamaican content creator Juliet Bodley (known professionally as Julie Mango) concluded the speaking program with a raw account of her struggles with self-confidence. Her engineering background contrasting with her creative persona, Bodley recounted transformative personal battles that eventually led to her discovering purpose through global content creation and TEDx presentations.

    The conference featured artistic performances by Zahra Airall, Karen Brooks, and Kelly Richardson, whose contributions enhanced the day’s inspirational atmosphere. Norton and her organizational team demonstrated continued commitment to creating spaces for women to network, collaborate, and rejuvenate, with plans already underway for the fifth conference in 2027.

  • Driver Crash Leaves Historic Water Tank in Liberta Structurally Unstable

    Driver Crash Leaves Historic Water Tank in Liberta Structurally Unstable

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda – Authorities have issued urgent safety advisories following a vehicular collision that severely compromised the structural integrity of a historic water tank in Liberta. The incident, which involved a motor vehicle striking the century-old structure, has rendered the landmark dangerously unstable.

    Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, the area’s Member of Parliament, confirmed in a Sunday statement that the tank situated adjacent to Grace Hill Moravian Church sustained substantial damage. Preliminary assessments indicate the collision has created critical weaknesses in the infrastructure, posing imminent danger to bystanders.

    “This architectural relic, believed to have served the community for over 100 years, now presents grave safety concerns following the impact,” Greene stated. He emphasized the structure’s precarious condition could lead to potential collapse without warning.

    Emergency protocols have been activated with formal notifications submitted to the Public Works Department. Officials have prioritized repair requests, though no timeline has been established for commencement of stabilization efforts.

    The MP issued explicit warnings prohibiting public access to the perimeter: “All citizens must maintain safe distance and avoid any contact with the compromised structure. The risk of sudden structural failure poses potentially fatal consequences.”

    Special appeals were directed to educational stakeholders and caregivers, urging heightened supervision to prevent children from approaching the hazard zone. Community cooperation has been solicited to prevent tragedies while awaiting engineering interventions.

    Greene acknowledged residents’ alertness in reporting the damage and urged continued vigilance until restoration work secures the historic site.

  • Foundation Mixed School wins 2026 RCA’s Reading Competition

    Foundation Mixed School wins 2026 RCA’s Reading Competition

    In a remarkable display of literary prowess, Major Emanuel from Foundation Mixed School claimed victory at the Rotary Club of Antigua’s 2026 Book Reading Competition on March 7th. The young scholar outperformed competitors with an exceptional score of 135 points, demonstrating superior reading comprehension and presentation abilities that captivated judges and audience members alike.

    The annual event, designed to promote literacy and cultural engagement among primary school students across Antigua and Barbuda, centered around the locally authored work ‘Tete’s Butterfly’ by Floree Williams-Whyte. This strategic selection emphasized the importance of regional literature in fostering cultural identity and preserving Caribbean storytelling traditions.

    Competition format featured two distinct challenges: participants first delivered selected passages from the designated text, followed by a innovative news presenter segment that evaluated their clarity, confidence, and expressive capabilities under pressure. The unique structure aimed to develop both literary analysis skills and public speaking confidence among young learners.

    Final rankings placed Jayhem Joshua from TOR Memorial School as first runner-up with 125 points, while Eidrik Piper of Five Islands Primary School secured second runner-up position with 117 points.

    Rotary Club President Graham emphasized the transformative power of literacy during her address: ‘Reading represents one of the most valuable gifts we can provide to younger generations. Through literature, students develop critical thinking capabilities, cultivate bold imagination, and learn to perceive the world through diverse perspectives. Such competitions fundamentally strengthen confidence and inspire enduring passion for reading.’

    She particularly highlighted the significance of incorporating regional authors into educational initiatives, noting that Caribbean narratives enable students to recognize their cultural experiences within literary contexts. ‘When children encounter stories crafted by Caribbean writers, they encounter reflections of themselves within those pages. They understand that their narratives, linguistic traditions, and cultural heritage possess profound importance.’

    The successful execution of this literacy initiative was made possible through generous support from numerous sponsors including ACB Caribbean, Cricket West Indies, Brydens, and local businesses alongside individual contributors from the Rotary leadership team. Through such educational programs, the Rotary Club of Antigua continues its dedicated mission to enhance educational standards, empower youth development, and advance literacy nationwide.

  • Vrouwen hebben 36% minder economische rechten dan mannen

    Vrouwen hebben 36% minder economische rechten dan mannen

    Suriname’s agricultural sector is taking decisive steps to address persistent gender inequalities, as highlighted during the recent Women in Agriculture Fair held in Paramaribo’s Orchid Garden. The event, timed with International Women’s Day celebrations, brought together female entrepreneurs, government officials, and international partners to address the 36% legal rights gap women face globally in economic spheres.

    Agriculture Minister Mike Noersalim delivered a powerful address challenging traditional perceptions of women’s roles in farming. “We must recognize that women are not merely ‘helping hands’ in the fields but the backbone of our food security system,” Noersalim stated. “Your rights to land, capital, and policy participation are non-negotiable.”

    The fair, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and the Inter-American Development Bank, focused on the global theme of “Rights, Justice, Action.” Minister Noersalim elaborated on this framework, explaining that justice requires removing invisible structural barriers that disproportionately affect women in rural areas.

    Innovation emerged as a key solution, with the ministry promising improved access to new technologies, tailored training programs, and sustainable practices. These initiatives aim to create a level playing field where female entrepreneurs can develop, grow, export, and thrive equally with their male counterparts.

    Sandy Cameron, Commissioner of the National Development Bank, acknowledged financing challenges faced by women but emphasized support mechanisms are available. “Access to funding sometimes appears more difficult for women, but it’s not impossible—we must guide them through the process,” Cameron noted.

    Experienced entrepreneur Grace Watamaleo offered encouragement to aspiring female farmers, particularly those in interior regions where agriculture represents both cultural tradition and economic survival. “Don’t be discouraged if you don’t know where to begin,” Watamaleo advised. “Today information is readily accessible. Be strong, persist in your efforts, and if you haven’t started yet, simply take that first step.”

  • DIGESETT sanctions driver for reckless driving on Autovía del Este

    DIGESETT sanctions driver for reckless driving on Autovía del Este

    SANTO DOMINGO – Dominican Republic’s traffic enforcement agency DIGESETT has imposed sanctions against a motorist captured on video traveling extensively in the wrong direction along the Autovía del Este highway. The dangerous incident occurred near San Pedro de Macorís, with digital evidence rapidly circulating across social media platforms prompting official investigation.

    Following detailed analysis of the viral footage, authorities identified the vehicle and its operator, applying penalties stipulated in Article 252 of the nation’s Transit and Transportation Law 63-17. The legislation provides clear frameworks for addressing severe traffic violations that endanger public safety.

    DIGESETT officials emphasized their ongoing commitment to roadway safety through a formal statement, urging all drivers to adhere to traffic regulations designed to protect all highway users. The agency additionally highlighted collaborative surveillance efforts, noting that both official patrols and civilian documentation contribute to identifying hazardous behaviors.

    This enforcement action demonstrates the growing intersection between digital evidence and traffic management, where publicly shared content can directly support regulatory interventions. The case serves as a cautionary example against reckless driving practices while showcasing authorities’ responsiveness to community-reported incidents.

  • Booby Alley Housing Project Expected to Be Substantially Completed by June

    Booby Alley Housing Project Expected to Be Substantially Completed by June

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced significant progress on the Booby Alley housing redevelopment initiative, projecting substantial completion by June with final unit handovers anticipated for August. The announcement came during the Prime Minister’s regular weekly address on Pointe FM, where he provided updates on the transformative urban renewal project.

    Construction of the modern residential complex in the Point district is advancing consistently toward its concluding phases. “I anticipate substantial completion around June, with formal handover procedures commencing in August, after which we will initiate the distribution process,” Browne stated regarding the project timeline.

    This redevelopment represents a cornerstone of the government’s comprehensive strategy to revitalize the historically marginalized Booby Alley community. The initiative involves replacing outdated residential structures with contemporary housing units and enhanced infrastructure systems designed to modern standards.

    Prime Minister Browne characterized the development as a substantial enhancement for the area, simultaneously highlighting the necessity for corresponding upgrades to adjacent roadway networks. He emphasized that the surrounding infrastructure must reflect the quality of the new construction, noting: “This is an exceptional facility that will require roadways commensurate with the superior homes we’re constructing.”

    The Booby Alley transformation constitutes a pivotal element of the administration’s broader urban regeneration campaign, targeting improved living conditions and comprehensive community rehabilitation in one of St. John’s most historically underserved neighborhoods.

  • Column: De lente die niet wijkt

    Column: De lente die niet wijkt

    Across conflict-ravaged regions from Gaza to Afghanistan, an extraordinary juxtaposition unfolds as communities simultaneously observe Nowruz celebrations and Ramadan fasting rituals amidst unimaginable devastation. While international observers document the destruction, local residents continue centuries-old traditions with profound determination.

    In Tehran’s Tajrish Bazaar, women smile while holding flower bouquets in preparation for Nowruz, the Persian New Year that coincides with Ramadan this year. This visual symbolism contrasts sharply with scenes from Afghanistan where families clean homes surrounded by unrecovered rubble, plant flowers in pots while the earth thirsts for blood, and prepare feasts despite countless empty tables.

    The convergence of these observances creates powerful philosophical contradictions: Muslims worldwide engage in soul purification through fasting and prayer while in Gaza, Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Sudan, bodies are prepared for burial with nothing but silence. Children are extracted from rubble rather than breaking their fast with dates at sunset. Mothers are buried by daughters who should be fitting new dresses for Eid celebrations.

    This persistent adherence to tradition represents what analysts term the ‘Mahdi concept’ – not a messianic figure descending from heaven, but a collective spiritual resilience that refuses to surrender to imposed circumstances. The act of cleaning homes, laying new carpets, watering flowers, and extending invitations becomes revolutionary resistance against destruction.

    Historical parallels emerge from Islamic teachings, notably Prophet Mohammed’s saying: “If the Day of Judgment arrives while one of you holds a seedling, let him plant it.” This ethos of planting despite impending doom, celebrating life within death’s shadow, forms the indestructible core of human spirit currently manifesting across conflict zones.

    The profound wisdom underlying these traditions suggests that as long as communities maintain cultural practices – cleaning, planting, inviting, fasting, praying, hoping – victory does not belong to those who believe violence holds the final word. This dual observance of Nowruz and Ramadan transcends cultural ritual to become what anthropologists identify as the most subversive resistance: refusing to stop living.

    The immense irony between what these holy days represent and what they have become creates nearly unbearable tension. Yet within this tension germinates the unbreakable seed of human resilience, demonstrating that true spring is not a season but a conscious decision to embody renewal despite surrounding destruction.

  • Raúl congratulates our exemplary women

    Raúl congratulates our exemplary women

    In a special commemorative message marking International Women’s Day, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz extended heartfelt congratulations to Cuba’s exemplary women, acknowledging their profound dedication and sustained contributions to the nation’s revolutionary endeavors. The statement, released from Havana on March 8th, 2026, emphasized the critical role women have played in shaping Cuba’s social and political landscape.

    Castro’s tribute highlighted the multifaceted participation of Cuban women across various sectors of society, recognizing their ongoing commitment to revolutionary principles. The message conveyed both admiration and affection, concluding with a symbolic embrace and kiss—gestures representing the nation’s appreciation for women’s past achievements and future potential.

    This public acknowledgment from one of Cuba’s most prominent revolutionary leaders underscores the official recognition of women’s integral role in the country’s development. The statement serves as both a celebration of International Women’s Day and a reaffirmation of women’s central position within Cuba’s revolutionary narrative, reflecting the government’s continued emphasis on gender equality as a fundamental component of socialist ideology.

  • Directeur SBB krijgt ontslag aangezegd en kondigt juridisch verweer aan

    Directeur SBB krijgt ontslag aangezegd en kondigt juridisch verweer aan

    Suriname’s forest management authority faces leadership turmoil as Ruben Ravenberg, Director-General of the Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control (SBB), has been issued a dismissal notice. The controversy centers on conflicting employment contracts discovered during an internal investigation.

    An oversight committee review revealed two distinct employment agreements in Ravenberg’s personnel file. The initial contract, dated December 22, 2023, established a five-year term from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2028, based on official government authorization.

    However, investigators uncovered a second agreement signed June 13, 2025, that allegedly appointed Ravenberg as indefinite-term director with enhanced compensation. This subsequent contract referenced the same governmental approval that originally authorized only a fixed-term arrangement.

    The supervisory board determined the indefinite contract was executed without proper nomination or involvement from the foundation’s board of directors, violating organizational statutes that mandate board recommendation for director appointments. The report further noted absence of formal performance evaluation or official resolution authorizing the transition to permanent status.

    Citing these procedural irregularities, the board advised Lands Policy and Forest Management Minister Stanley Soeropawiro to negotiate voluntary termination with Ravenberg to avoid potential litigation and maintain organizational stability.

    The dismissed director has vigorously contested these findings, maintaining he acted in good faith throughout the process. Ravenberg asserts the permanent appointment resulted from direct initiative by the former minister following positive performance assessment. He argues that administrative errors in supervisory decision-making cannot justify consequences for an employee who fulfilled duties appropriately.

    Ravenberg highlights his academic credentials—including advanced degrees in biodiversity and nature conservation—and emphasizes his successful implementation of organizational reforms during his tenure. He has retained legal counsel to formally challenge the dismissal, with potential court action pending ministerial response.

    This leadership crisis emerges during a critical period for Suriname’s forestry sector, where SBB plays vital regulatory roles in forest conservation and timber industry oversight.