Carib Scope

分类： society

  • PRESS RELEASE: Abbigale Loncke-Watson, an entrepreneur who connects rural life, energy and local development in Guyana, is recognized by IICA as a Leader of Rurality of the Americas

    PRESS RELEASE: Abbigale Loncke-Watson, an entrepreneur who connects rural life, energy and local development in Guyana, is recognized by IICA as a Leader of Rurality of the Americas

    Abbigale Loncke-Watson embodies a transformative force in Caribbean entrepreneurship, seamlessly merging community development with business innovation. The Guyanese visionary, recently honored as a Leader of Rurality of the Americas by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), has dedicated her career to advancing economic independence for rural women while pioneering inclusive growth models.

    Her journey began in Guyana’s Essequibo region, where childhood experiences in agricultural communities instilled core values of solidarity, resourcefulness, and collective problem-solving. These formative years directly inspired her first entrepreneurial venture—a home-care agency created to address her grandfather’s healthcare needs that evolved into a platform for local women with nursing skills.

    This initial project catalyzed the 2017 establishment of WeLead Caribbean, an organization providing comprehensive training, network access, and economic autonomy programs for Guyanese women. Through tailored courses in business management, digital literacy, and marketing—accommodating family responsibilities with childcare and flexible scheduling—WeLead has empowered entrepreneurs across regions from Essequibo to Berbice. The pandemic prompted innovative adaptations, with social media becoming a vital tool for product promotion and direct sales when traditional channels collapsed.

    Concurrently, Loncke-Watson leads Loncke Group (including MBW Energy Support Services) and co-founded Sispro Inc., which recently secured two oil blocks in Guyana’s government bidding process. As a female CEO in the male-dominated energy sector, she champions gender inclusion through Women in Energy Guyana, advocating for rural communities’ participation in the country’s energy boom.

    Her leadership philosophy emphasizes intentional risk-taking and holistic development: ‘Energy wealth must translate into community well-being through local training, environmental respect, and job creation.’ Future initiatives include business-simulation programs, the Women Empowerment Conference, and cross-sector partnerships to expand opportunities in energy and technology—ensuring rural women actively shape Guyana’s economic transformation.

  • Driver arrested after high‑speed chase ends in crash

    Driver arrested after high‑speed chase ends in crash

    Saint Lucia law enforcement authorities have taken a suspect into custody after a dramatic high-speed pursuit culminated in a vehicular collision on Friday morning. The incident unfolded when officers from the Road Safety and Traffic Investigation division, while attending to an unrelated accident near Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School at approximately 11:20 a.m., witnessed a white Toyota Corolla executing dangerous overtaking maneuvers along the left shoulder at excessive speeds.

    Despite clear instructions from police to halt, the motorist persisted in reckless driving behavior, prompting an immediate pursuit. The chase reached its critical juncture at the intersection of La Ressource Highroad and St Jude Highroad, where officers discovered the suspect vehicle had collided with another automobile. Both vehicles suffered substantial structural damage from the impact, though remarkably no injuries were reported among involved parties.

    Subsequent police investigation uncovered multiple regulatory violations: the driver was operating the vehicle without a valid driver’s license, the automobile was found to be uninsured, and the license plate displayed on the vehicle was improperly registered to another car. The apprehended individual was transported to Vieux Fort Police Station and remains in custody pending formal charges related to the incident.

  • Downswell, colleagues join hands to help

    Downswell, colleagues join hands to help

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation across western Jamaica, renowned gospel artist Kevin Downswell has spearheaded a significant humanitarian initiative, mobilizing a coalition of fellow musicians and corporate partners to aid displaced communities. For three consecutive weeks, this collective effort has delivered both material support and spiritual comfort to storm-ravaged regions.

    The relief operation commenced immediately after the storm’s passage, with Downswell coordinating rapid response teams comprising gospel artists including Johnmark Wiggan and Prince Saj. Their initial mission focused on St. Elizabeth parish, specifically targeting areas such as Lacovia and Middle Quarters. The teams distributed essential care packages while providing emotional support through prayer and counseling sessions.

    During the second week, the humanitarian campaign expanded to Montego Bay in St. James, addressing critical needs in severely affected communities including Catherine Hall—where floodwaters deposited thick layers of mud across residential areas—and Bogue Heights. The mission subsequently extended to Westmoreland, reaching vulnerable populations in Beeston Springs and Paradise.

    The relief model combines practical assistance with psychological support. Each outreach event provides sufficient supplies—including toiletries, non-perishable goods, and prepared meals—to support approximately 250 individuals. Corporate partners including KFC and Ziggy’s restaurant have contributed significantly to the food provision component, recognizing that many survivors lack access to cooking facilities due to damaged infrastructure.

    Downswell emphasizes that beyond material aid, the emotional component remains crucial: ‘The best thing is to listen to their story. Even if you don’t pray, just hold their hand and listen—it means everything to them that we listen. That has been a special part of this journey.’

    The initiative continues to operate as a self-sustaining collective, with artists like DJ Nicholas and Chevelle Franklyn contributing resources despite being unable to participate physically. Downswell confirms the mission will persist with the philosophy of supporting ‘one community at a time, one family at a time, one prayer at a time.’

  • Six girls vie for title in biblical-themed pageant

    Six girls vie for title in biblical-themed pageant

    After an eight-year hiatus, the renowned First Impression Brash and Sassy organization is revitalizing its biblical-themed children’s pageant on December 13th at Union Claxton Bay Senior Secondary School. The event marks a significant comeback following economic challenges and pandemic-related disruptions that temporarily suspended the program.

    Six young delegates aged 7-12 will compete for the title while embodying iconic Women of the Bible. This year’s participants include: Zendaya Pierre as Mary of Nazareth, Jerusha Osborne as Martha, Heaven Rouse as Pharaoh’s daughter, Asia-Leigh Allen as Esther, Zaharah Williams as Hannah, and Destiny Joseph as Eve.

    The competition structure incorporates four distinctive segments: a thematic introduction centered on ‘Jesus Is King’, personalized presentations of their biblical characters, talent demonstrations, and an evening gown parade featuring traditional Christmas colors of red, green, and white. Contestants will additionally be tested on their biblical knowledge through memory verse recitations.

    Norma Bramble-Joseph, founder and coordinator of the 30-year-old organization, emphasizes that the pageant serves as an educational platform to instill biblical values in youth. ‘This concert is the way forward to encourage children to understand biblical values and to include Christ in every aspect of life,’ she stated. The organization has historically focused on ‘training princesses to become queens’ through comprehensive instruction in ethics, self-deportment, fundamental self-care, table etiquette, and biblical lessons.

    The event commences at 5:30 PM, representing both a celebration of faith and a testament to community resilience in maintaining cultural and religious traditions for younger generations.

  • Jamaica Zoo animals survive

    Jamaica Zoo animals survive

    LACOVIA, St Elizabeth – Defying a trio of devastating setbacks, Jamaica Zoo is undertaking a vigorous recovery effort with plans to partially reopen its doors by December 19. Operator Paul Fearon confirmed that despite the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that struck on October 28, all animals are secure and accounted for.

    Amidst the sprawling, underutilized lands of St Elizabeth’s agricultural parish, Fearon is leading extensive clean-up operations. The zoo, which features a lion, spider monkeys, parrots, and educational exhibits, suffered structural damage including collapsed roofs and non-functional stalls. Fearon emphasized the unique challenges of managing a zoological facility through crises, stating, ‘Operating a zoo is a perishable item. It is not like a supermarket where you can simply close the door and turn off the lights.’

    The zoo’s disaster preparedness protocols proved vital to animal safety. Fearon explained their strategic design: ‘The back of the building has three walls, so debris cannot penetrate. Behind the building is our drainage. Long before the storm, we had an animal security plan implemented.’

    However, the path to recovery remains arduous as the institution contends with compounded challenges from Hurricane Beryl (2024) and the lingering effects of COVID-19 shutdowns. Fearon described the consecutive blows as ‘a real struggle’ that has stretched resources thin.

    While acknowledging visits from the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), Fearon expressed disappointment with the limited governmental support. ‘After Beryl, Government agencies came and promised help, but those pledges were not honored,’ he revealed, calling for greater priority on environmental and recreational infrastructure.

    Beyond entertainment, Fearon highlighted the zoo’s educational mission, noting its annual program that brings thousands of children under 10 free of charge. ‘We have visitors from across Jamaica who come for the educational aspect regarding both animals and plants,’ he stated.

    With 20 power saws and four debris-removal trucks operating simultaneously, the restoration is progressing. Fearon commended his dedicated staff who ‘commit themselves despite their personal problems’ and remains cautiously optimistic about the phased reopening schedule that will return Jamaica Zoo to its role as a national educational resource.

  • Flow Trinidad promotes GBV campaign to save lives

    Flow Trinidad promotes GBV campaign to save lives

    Following the tragic gender-based violence (GBV) deaths of two employees in 2021, Liberty Caribbean—parent company of telecommunications provider Flow Trinidad—has implemented a comprehensive corporate response that has now gained international recognition.

    The company received the Best Diversity and Inclusion Initiative award at the 2025 Global Connectivity Awards in London on October 22, specifically acknowledged for its GBV policy framework. Dominic Boon, Vice President of People at Liberty Caribbean, revealed the policy emerged from internal reflection after losing employees in Barbados and Puerto Rico to domestic violence incidents.

    This proactive approach includes multiple support mechanisms: temporary housing assistance, office relocation options, counseling coverage, flexible work arrangements, and financial support for legal proceedings. The policy extends protection to all employees and their children, administered through a specially trained HR team that ensures discreet support while maintaining workplace safety.

    The company’s GBV awareness efforts are particularly emphasized during the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign (November 25-December 10), with various markets conducting educational seminars. Leadership demonstrates commitment through visible support, including wearing advocacy T-shirts at senior meetings and sponsoring events like The Shelter for Battered Women and Children’s charity golf tournament.

    Liberty Caribbean has also fostered gender diversity organically, resulting in women holding 46% of leadership positions (director level and above), including the CEO role. In Trinidad and Tobago, the entire senior leadership team comprises women—a testament to the company’s belief that diverse leadership yields better decision-making.

    The initiative has already produced tangible results: five employees have utilized the policy this year alone to receive customized support. While the company doesn’t involve authorities without consent, it encourages employees to seek police assistance when facing GBV situations.

    By making their policy openly available to other organizations, Liberty Caribbean aims to create broader regional impact, using their brand recognition to transform societal attitudes and provide actionable support for GBV victims throughout the Caribbean.

  • Two Canadians detained, cocaine seized in MOCA operation in St Elizabeth

    Two Canadians detained, cocaine seized in MOCA operation in St Elizabeth

    Jamaican law enforcement agencies have launched a significant counter-narcotics operation in St Elizabeth, targeting sophisticated drug trafficking networks. The multi-unit task force, spearheaded by the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA), executed a coordinated raid on a suspected drug compound with support from specialized divisions including the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s K9 Unit, Area 3 Narcotics team, and local St Elizabeth police authorities.

    Early operational reports confirm the apprehension of multiple suspects, among them two Canadian citizens, suggesting possible transnational criminal connections. Authorities have successfully confiscated a substantial quantity of cocaine during the operation, though specific metrics regarding the seizure remain undisclosed pending formal inventory and analysis.

    Law enforcement officials have maintained operational secrecy regarding additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. A spokesperson indicated that comprehensive information regarding charges, suspect identities, and the full scope of the narcotics seizure will be released following further forensic examination and investigative procedures. The operation represents Jamaica’s continued intensified efforts against organized crime syndicates exploiting the Caribbean region for international drug transit.

  • Former chief justice among 26 honoured by THA

    Former chief justice among 26 honoured by THA

    In a prestigious ceremony at Shaw Park Cultural Complex on December 4th, the Tobago House of Assembly recognized 26 exceptional individuals and organizations with the Tobago Medal of Honour. The awards were presented by THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine during the annual Tobago Day Awards celebration.

    Former Chief Justice Ivor Archie received the highest distinction—the Tobago Medal of Honour Gold—in recognition of his decades of dedicated public service. Archie, who retired on October 22nd after serving 17 years as chief justice, reflected on his extensive career in a pre-recorded interview. “I’ve been in public service for most of my professional life,” he noted, sharing insights from his journey that included eight and a half years in the Cayman Islands where he rose to Solicitor General before being recruited as a high court judge.

    Archie offered poignant advice to aspiring legal professionals: “If you’re thinking of a career in law, it is a brutal discipline. Don’t do it for prestige—you’re not going to be happy. You really have to have a passion for it. If you do have that passion, don’t give up.”

    Chief Secretary Augustine used the occasion to inspire younger Tobagonians, urging them to transcend self-imposed limitations. “Never make the mistake of limiting yourself. You are able to accomplish far more than you can dare to dream,” he declared. Augustine called for a fundamental shift in perception, stating: “We must shift the perception of Tobagonians being indolent to industrious. Diligence must no longer be a trait of a select few; it must be the standard for the majority of us.”

    The awards ceremony honored excellence across multiple domains including public service, culture, sports, education, health, entrepreneurship, community work, and diaspora contributions. Among the gold medal recipients were Sir Edwin Carrington for public service, Lincoln Warner for education and culture, and Bishop’s High School for educational excellence.

    Silver and bronze medals were awarded to numerous distinguished citizens, with special categories including the Rose Gold Medal of Honour for women, presented to Dr. Freddy James for education, and the Tobago Diaspora Award given to Samuel Clarke for public and community service. The Chief Secretary’s Award recognized Kersh Ramsey for culture and Jolé St John for tourism contributions.

    Augustine framed the awards within Tobago’s broader development vision, emphasizing: “Our development mantra—the greatest little island on the planet—is not a catch phrase, it is a call to action. We must invest in the transformation we seek.”

  • Nalis receives Audience Choice Impact Award

    Nalis receives Audience Choice Impact Award

    The National Library and Information System Authority (Nalis) of Trinidad and Tobago has achieved significant recognition for its groundbreaking efforts in promoting accessibility. The institution was honored as a finalist for the 2025 Inter-American Development Bank President’s Award for Innovation in Service Excellence (Praise) in the Citizen External User Experience Category for its transformative Marrakesh Project.

    During the prestigious awards ceremony hosted at the President’s House on November 26, Nalis received dual honors: their official finalist certification and the distinguished Audience Choice Impact Award within their category. This special recognition, determined by the judging panel, acknowledges the project’s exceptional potential to create meaningful positive change for Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens.

    The Marrakesh Project represents a critical advancement in educational accessibility. As the legally authorized entity under the Marrakesh Treaty, Nalis holds the exclusive mandate within Trinidad and Tobago to produce materials in accessible formats including Braille, audio, and large print publications. This initiative specifically serves students who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled.

    Beyond domestic impact, the project contributes significantly to global accessibility efforts. Nalis systematically converts local educational materials and shares these resources through the international Accessible Books Consortium (ABC), enabling worldwide access to Trinidad and Tobago’s literary and educational content.

    The recognition followed a rigorous selection process. A dedicated Nalis team comprising Helen Johnson, Director of Information Networks Division, and Donna Hall-Comissiong, Librarian IV, presented the project directly to the IDB’s judging panel on October 7. Nalis emerged among 12 finalists from various government ministries and departments, all demonstrating exceptional citizen impact across two primary categories: Internal User Experience and External Citizen Experience.

    Now in its eighth iteration, the IDB’s President’s Awards continue to highlight excellence and innovation within Trinidad and Tobago’s public sector, showcasing initiatives that significantly enhance citizen services and operational efficiency. The 2025 top honors in the External User Experience Category were awarded to the Ministry of Education for its First Year Infant Registration System TT (FIRSTT) project, while the North West Regional Health Authority secured the Internal User Experience award for implementing a Comprehensive Health Information System.

  • Ban on private drones for Tobago Day show

    Ban on private drones for Tobago Day show

    The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has implemented temporary airspace restrictions prohibiting private drone operations near Scarborough Esplanade during the December 6 Tobago Day Cultural Concert and Drone Show. The Office of the Chief Secretary issued an official notice stating the ban will be enforced during the scheduled 6:30 PM drone display performance.

    According to the THA’s released statement, unauthorized drone activity in the vicinity could potentially interfere with the navigation systems and precisely coordinated movements of the official display drones. The coordinated aerial show involves sophisticated technology requiring clear, uncontested airspace to ensure both spectacular visual effects and public safety.

    The assembly emphasized that these measures are necessary to create a secure environment for both attendees and performers while maintaining the technical integrity of the scheduled presentation. Officials expressed gratitude for public cooperation, noting that compliance with the temporary restriction would contribute to an enjoyable experience for all concert attendees while demonstrating community responsibility regarding emerging technology regulations.