Carib Scope

分类： society

  • CARICOM honours women and youth in sustainable energy

    CARICOM honours women and youth in sustainable energy

    In a landmark ceremony concluding CARICOM Energy Month 2025, the Caribbean Community celebrated exceptional women and youth leaders revolutionizing sustainable energy development across the region. The prestigious WISE (Women in Sustainable Energy) and SEY (Sustainable Energy Youth) Awards recognized ten visionaries for their transformative contributions to policy innovation, community advocacy, and clean energy entrepreneurship.

    The November 28th gala at Georgetown’s Pegasus Hotel honored eight female pioneers and two youth innovators spanning 2024 and 2025 award cycles. Guyana’s Shevon Wood received recognition for policy leadership while Jamaica’s Carol Lue triumphed in business entrepreneurship. Social impact accolades went to advocates Jayda Overton (Guyana) and Gabrielle Gay (Barbados), with utility sector honors awarded to Cheryl Lewis (Jamaica) and Nikita Mullings (Bahamas).

    Youth champions Amir Dillawar (Guyana) and Damani Thomas (Jamaica) secured SEY honors for their groundbreaking solar energy initiatives and carbon neutrality efforts. Ambassador David Prendergast, CARICOM’s Director of Sectoral Programmes, emphasized that regional energy transition “must reflect and embrace the vital contributions of women and youth” across all sectors from policymaking to consumer engagement.

    The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), which partnered with CARICOM on the awards, reinforced through representative Dr. Neibert Blair that “the CARICOM energy transition cannot be achieved without women and youth.” Blair highlighted awardees’ roles in climate adaptation, workforce modernization, and policy development that collectively shape the region’s sustainable future.

    This celebration capped a month-long series of energy transition activities including electric vehicle expositions, academic engagements, and community initiatives like the Regional Energy Kilo Walk. The awards ceremony underscored CARICOM’s commitment to gender-inclusive and intergenerational leadership in achieving its clean energy objectives across 15 member states and 6 associate members.

  • Region 1 policeman arrested after video surfaces of man brandishing, shooting rifle, threatening to kill

    Region 1 policeman arrested after video surfaces of man brandishing, shooting rifle, threatening to kill

    A law enforcement officer from Guyana’s Region 1 (Barima-Waini) has been taken into custody following the emergence of a disturbing video depicting an armed individual threatening lethal violence in Port Kaituma. The Guyana Police Force confirmed Sunday that the officer was placed under close arrest to facilitate an internal investigation into the alarming incident.

    The controversial footage, which surfaced on social media platforms, shows a man dressed in civilian clothing brandishing an assault rifle on a public roadway. During the altercation, the individual discharged multiple rounds—including one shot fired while a peacemaker attempted to disarm him, and two additional shots while walking with the weapon. Two women were visible in the video attempting to de-escalate the situation.

    Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken has ordered the Office of Professional Responsibility to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The law enforcement agency emphasized that the video evidence would form a crucial component of the probe, which will determine appropriate disciplinary and criminal measures.

    The police force issued an official statement affirming its commitment to ‘maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.’ The statement came approximately one hour after Team Mohamed’s Facebook page published the viral video, though police did not explicitly acknowledge the social media post as their source.

    The incident has drawn political attention, with the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party calling for authorities to investigate what they describe as inadequate supervision of police personnel in Region One. The party’s social media caption accompanying the video demanded thorough investigation into these alleged police infractions.

  • President Bostic launches Chapman Challenge as Barbados celebrates milestones of nationhood

    President Bostic launches Chapman Challenge as Barbados celebrates milestones of nationhood

    In a powerful inaugural address marking Barbados’ 59th Independence Day, newly installed President Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic unveiled a transformative national initiative aimed at uplifting the nation’s youth. The ceremony at Kensington Oval witnessed the formal transition of power from former President Dame Sandra Mason to President Bostic, who immediately set forth his vision for national development through youth empowerment.

    President Bostic introduced the Chapman Challenge—named after the community where he was raised—as a dual call to action. The initiative challenges every adult Barbadian to actively guide a child while simultaneously urging young citizens to transcend their circumstances through ambition and determination. Drawing from his personal mantra ‘no retreat, no surrender’ that guided his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as Health Minister, Bostic redirected this battle cry toward youth development.

    The program will be community-centered, operating within local parishes where support is most critically needed. President Bostic emphasized that parish councillors, village leaders, and community institutions will identify and support ‘challengers’—young people ready to rise above their limitations. The President called for an ‘army of anchors’ comprising experienced citizens, faith-based organizations, and cultural groups to provide essential mentorship.

    Reflecting on his humble beginnings in Chapman Lane, Bostic stated, ‘It showed me that we are stronger together, that we rise and fall as one.’ His personal narrative underscored the program’s foundation in community solidarity and collective advancement.

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who also addressed the gathering, endorsed the initiative while urging Barbadians to reconnect with their patriotic spirit. She described President Bostic as ‘the embodiment of national duty and resilience’ and expressed confidence that this renewed community focus could make Barbados ‘truly world-class by 2030.’

    The ceremony, attended by international dignitaries including King Abdullah II of Jordan and several Caribbean leaders, blended military precision with cultural performances, symbolizing both Barbados’ independence and its continued evolution as a republic.

  • Dominican Communities Mourn 23-Year-Old Killed in St. John’s Scooter Crash

    Dominican Communities Mourn 23-Year-Old Killed in St. John’s Scooter Crash

    A devastating pre-dawn incident on Popeshead Street in St. John’s has resulted in the tragic death of Joshua Alexander, a 23-year-old Dominican national residing in Light Foot. The fatal collision occurred approximately at 2:00 AM on Sunday when Alexander’s black scooter reportedly veered out of control, striking a concrete wall and adjacent sidewalk in close proximity to the Pita Pocket establishment.

    Emergency response teams arriving at the scene discovered no vital signs from the victim. Medical professionals subsequently formally pronounced Alexander deceased at 3:16 AM despite resuscitation efforts. The Royal Police Force of Antigua has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, though preliminary evidence suggests no other vehicles were involved in the incident.

    The tragedy has triggered profound mourning within Dominican expatriate communities across both Antigua and Wesley, where Alexander was recognized as a vibrant young member. Law enforcement authorities have publicly extended their deepest sympathies to the grieving family while continuing their examination of contributing factors that might have led to the loss of control. The investigation remains active as officials work to determine whether road conditions, mechanical failure, or other elements played a role in this fatal outcome.

  • Antigua & Barbuda Honours Top Industry Performers at 2025 Tourism Awards

    Antigua & Barbuda Honours Top Industry Performers at 2025 Tourism Awards

    The Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality & Tourism Association (ABHTA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), orchestrated a magnificent celebration of industry excellence on November 29th, 2025. The event, formally titled the ‘Mirror Ball Gala: A Time to Reflect and Shine,’ served as the prestigious platform for the annual Tourism Awards, recognizing the nation’s most outstanding contributors to its vital tourism sector.

    The gala evening was a profound occasion to both reflect on past achievements and shine a spotlight on the individuals driving the industry forward. A diverse array of awards were presented across multiple categories, highlighting excellence from frontline service to executive leadership.

    Recipients of the coveted ABHTA Awards included Albev Wade from Blue Waters Resort & Spa, named Employee of the Year, and Sophia Welch of Mill Reef Club, who earned Supervisor of the Year. The Rising Star of the Year accolade was awarded to Shemaiah Gordon of Royalton Antigua, while Leon Norville from Sandals Grande Antigua was celebrated as Young Hotelier of the Year. Culinary expertise was prominently featured, with Kahendi Jackson of Hermitage Bay named Young Chef of the Year and Jean-Pierre Tuitt of Jumby Bay Island honored as Chef of the Year.

    The Ministry of Tourism bestowed its own set of distinctions. Sandy Ramsaran (Sandals Grande Antigua) received the Customer Service Excellence Award, Jahlyn Turner (Antigua & Barbuda Department of Immigration) was named Port Frontline Employee of the Year, Philbert John Baptiste (South Coast Horizons) won Tour Guide of the Year, and Ian Richards (United Taxi Company Antigua Ltd) earned the Transportation Service Provider of the Year title.

    Special recognition was given to women shaping the tourism landscape. Annette Michael was honored for an incredible 33-year legacy of exemplary service and leadership. Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP, was celebrated for her outstanding contributions to workforce development, training, and tourism leadership.

    In a poignant moment, a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to honor the enduring legacy of Mr. Alexandre de Brito e Cunha, remembered as a visionary leader and long-standing pillar of the ABHTA.

    The association extended its deepest gratitude to all event partners and sponsors whose support was instrumental in creating an unforgettable night of reflection, celebration, and immense national pride.

  • Motorcycle death in Antigua reported on social media to be Dominican

    Motorcycle death in Antigua reported on social media to be Dominican

    Antiguan authorities have launched a formal investigation into a tragic motorcycle accident that resulted in the death of a 23-year-old man on Popeshead Street in the early hours of November 30th. The victim has been officially identified as Joshua Alexander, a resident of Light Foot, Antigua.

    According to preliminary police reports, the incident occurred when Alexander was traveling at excessively high speeds along Popeshead Street. Authorities state he lost control of his vehicle, leading to a violent collision with a wall and sidewalk on the eastern side of the roadway.

    Emergency medical personnel responded promptly to the scene but found no signs of life. Alexander was officially pronounced deceased at 3:16 AM despite resuscitation efforts.

    The accident has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, with circulating images and unverified claims that the deceased was of Dominican origin. While these reports remain unconfirmed by official sources, local media outlets have committed to seeking clarification from relevant authorities regarding the victim’s background.

    This incident marks another tragic addition to Antigua’s road traffic statistics, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety and speeding violations. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

  • The CCJ Academy for Law successfully hosts its largest biennial conference

    The CCJ Academy for Law successfully hosts its largest biennial conference

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago – The Caribbean Court of Justice Academy for Law concluded its record-breaking 8th Biennial Conference on November 28, 2025, with the adoption of the groundbreaking Port of Spain Declaration – a comprehensive framework for advancing Caribbean jurisprudence. Held at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad under the theme ‘The CCJ at 20: Reflections on Caribbean Jurisprudence,’ the event attracted over 400 judicial officers, legal experts, academics, and civil society representatives from across the region, marking the largest gathering in the Academy’s history.

    The conference commenced with opening remarks from Honourable Mr Justice Winston Anderson, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice and Chair of the CCJ Academy for Law, who reflected on two decades of judicial evolution. ‘This conference invites us to reflect on the strides made, the progress achieved, and the paradigm shifts inspired by the region’s apex court,’ Justice Anderson stated. He simultaneously honored the legacy of former CCJ Judge Mr Justice Wit, recognizing his profound contributions to shaping modern Caribbean jurisprudence.

    Ms Lisa Shoman, SC, General Counsel of the CARICOM Secretariat, emphasized the critical importance of developing a distinct Caribbean legal identity. ‘Political independence compels us to shape our own legal landscape,’ she asserted, ‘forging a jurisprudence that reflects our unique culture, social realities, and supports our regional integration process.’

    International development partners demonstrated strong support for Caribbean judicial institutions. Her Excellency Cécile Tassin, EU Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted Europe’s 15-year partnership with the CCJ, noting that ‘supporting justice institutions is essential for democratic governance, human rights protection, and sustainable development.’ Similar endorsements came from the Inter-American Development Bank and Caribbean Development Bank, with the latter encouraging development of ‘a justice ecosystem that is technologically-enabled and people-centred.’

    The conference featured significant leadership transitions within the Academy, with Honourable Mme Justice Ononaiwu appointed as new Chair and Honourable Mme Justice Mira Dean-Armorer as Deputy Chair. The opening ceremony also showcased the launch of ‘Caribbean Court of Justice: Striving for Excellence – 20 Years of Evolving Justice,’ a commemorative publication analyzing landmark CCJ decisions.

    The Port of Spain Declaration emerged as the conference’s centerpiece achievement, advocating for legislative convergence while respecting regional legal diversity. The declaration calls for enhanced constitutional education, modernization of estate practices, protection of environmental justice, and greater enforcement of CARICOM nationals’ rights under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. It specifically encourages ethical technology integration within judicial systems and recognizes the vital role of legislatures, academia, and media in juridical development.

    The Declaration will be publicly available on the CCJ Academy’s website, with the next conference anticipated for November 2027.

  • Another Murder in Just Over 24 Hours

    Another Murder in Just Over 24 Hours

    The Old Capital community is confronting a disturbing surge in violence following two separate fatal shootings occurring within a remarkably short timeframe. The latest incident claimed the life of 41-year-old Earl Archer, a local contractor, who was fatally shot on Pelican Street Extension late Saturday evening. Law enforcement authorities report that the attack transpired shortly after 10:30 p.m., with responding officers discovering Archer suffering from critical gunshot wounds. He was urgently transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital but was subsequently pronounced dead upon arrival. This tragedy follows closely on the heels of another homicide that occurred merely the previous night. The initial victim was identified as Wayne Myles, a prominent local street vendor widely known by the moniker ‘Pie Bwai,’ who was shot inside his residence on 11th Street. Police discovered Myles with a fatal gunshot wound to the upper left torso. As investigations into both cases intensify, officials have yet to establish any confirmed motives for either shooting, leaving a community on edge and searching for answers.

  • Directorate of Gender Affairs Partners with Ebenezer Methodist Church for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

    Directorate of Gender Affairs Partners with Ebenezer Methodist Church for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

    In a significant demonstration of cross-sector collaboration, Antigua and Barbuda’s Directorate of Gender Affairs and Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation partnered with Ebenezer Methodist Church for a special worship service commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

    The event featured prominent government officials emphasizing the crucial role of religious institutions in national efforts to eliminate gender-based violence. Senator the Honorable Lamin Newton, representing Minister of Social and Urban Transformation the Honorable Rawdon Turner, joined Directorate of Gender Affairs Executive Director Mr. Jamie Saunders in highlighting how faith-based organizations contribute to shaping moral, spiritual, and ethical values in citizens—particularly youth—that can reduce violent and deviant behaviors.

    Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, Ms. Sarah Stuart, contributed a scripture reading during the service, reinforcing the spiritual dimension of the anti-violence initiative. The sermon, delivered by Brother Chris Matthews, focused on themes of hope and perseverance during challenging times, providing inspirational messaging aligned with the campaign’s objectives.

    The collaboration represents a strategic approach to addressing gender-based violence through multiple societal pillars, combining government resources with religious moral authority. The Directorate of Gender Affairs continues to advance its 16 Days of Activism calendar with additional activities planned throughout the coming week, encouraging public engagement and awareness.

  • Protests in Puerto Rico over US military activities

    Protests in Puerto Rico over US military activities

    A prominent advocacy organization has escalated its campaign for environmental transparency by submitting a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the leadership of Camp Santiago Joint Training Center in Salinas, Puerto Rico. The demand seeks comprehensive documentation concerning chemical contamination, environmental hazards, and toxic substance management at the island’s largest National Guard installation.

    Sonia Santiago Hernández, representing Mothers Against War, emphasized the critical nature of their request ahead of planned demonstrations. “The continued operation of Camp Santiago poses an immediate threat to the Southern Aquifer,” Hernández asserted, “which serves as the principal drinking water source for numerous communities across Salinas, Guayama, Arroyo, and adjacent municipalities.”

    The environmental advocate articulated growing community concerns regarding undisclosed pollution threats. “Residents deserve complete awareness of what contaminants have been deposited at Camp Santiago, their precise locations, exposure levels, and genuine remediation strategies,” Hernández declared. “We will not accept institutional silence when the wellbeing of our families hangs in the balance.”

    The extensive FOIA petition encompasses records pertaining to underground storage tanks and fuel spill incidents; historical documentation of gasoline and diesel leaks; compliance orders issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); and performance reports on malfunctioning automatic detection systems.

    Of particular concern are perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—persistent chemicals found in firefighting foams historically used at military facilities. Scientific research has established connections between PFAS exposure and increased cancer risks, endocrine disruption, and compromised immune function.

    The Mothers Against War spokesperson emphasized that public health considerations must supersede military operational interests, calling for both governmental transparency and environmental justice for affected Puerto Rican communities.