In a world often overshadowed by adversity, Zarah Castillo’s story stands as a beacon of hope and determination. A young nail technician from Belize City, Zarah’s life took an unexpected turn in 2023 when a tragic accident left her with a severe spinal injury, confining her to a wheelchair. Yet, her narrative is not one of despair but of gratitude, perseverance, and an unrelenting pursuit of her dreams. Zarah aspires to become an attorney, a goal she continues to chase with unwavering resolve.
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Politic : The OAS and CEAL join forces to support Haiti
In a landmark move to bolster economic and social progress in the Americas, the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Latin American Business Council (CEAL) have forged a strategic partnership. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the XXXVI CEAL Plenary Assembly in Washington, DC, aims to enhance public-private sector cooperation with a particular focus on Haiti. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to addressing critical areas such as education, financial inclusion, employment, and food security. CEAL President Roberto J. Zamora emphasized the significance of this alliance, stating, ‘This agreement marks a pivotal moment for a new era of collaboration. Politicians and business leaders must unite to tackle economic challenges and drive development. Haiti will be our first test case.’ OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin echoed this sentiment, describing the partnership as a milestone and expressing optimism about its potential to foster long-term relationships across the region. CEAL, a coalition of private sector leaders from 19 Latin American countries, Puerto Rico, Miami, and the Iberian Peninsula, is dedicated to promoting a ‘borderless America’ through investment, entrepreneurship, and knowledge exchange. This joint effort signals a renewed commitment to Haiti’s development amid ongoing challenges.
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COP30 Tiptoes “Dangerously Close” to 1.5°C Threshold
As the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) unfolds in Brazil, Caribbean nations are sounding the alarm over the escalating climate crisis. The summit, themed “The Forest COP,” emphasizes the urgent need to protect the Amazon and combat global warming. With global temperatures already at 1.3°C, the world is perilously close to breaching the 1.5°C threshold, a critical limit set by the Paris Agreement. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, highlighted the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica as a stark reminder of the Caribbean’s vulnerability. “Warmer oceans and rising temperatures are fueling monstrous hurricanes that our infrastructure cannot withstand,” he warned. Dr. Young stressed that small nations lack the resources to build resilience alone and called on developed countries to fulfill their promises of climate finance and support. CARICOM nations are demanding tangible actions, including early-warning systems and resilient infrastructure, rather than mere rhetoric. Dr. Young emphasized the need for accelerated global efforts, urging the international community to act with greater ambition to mitigate the climate crisis before it’s too late.
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$24M San Pedro-Based Casino Empire Crumbles Following News 5 Investigation
In a dramatic turn of events, the $24 million casino empire of Rima Ray, owner of Caribi Bleu Casino in San Pedro, Belize, has crumbled following a comprehensive investigation by News 5. Ray, a prominent American casino operator, is now incarcerated in the United States, facing serious charges including fraud, illegal gambling, and operating an unauthorized gaming business.
Ray’s downfall began in July 2025 when a routine traffic stop in the U.S. led to the discovery of over $300,000 in cash hidden in his Tesla. Police bodycam footage, released this week, captures the moment officers uncovered the money, which Ray claimed was proceeds from the sale of part of his casino business in Belize. Twenty days later, he was arrested in Sumter County on a $50,000 bond.
The arrest is the culmination of a months-long U.S. investigation, but Ray’s name first came under scrutiny in Belize in 2024 after News 5 exposed irregularities at Caribi Bleu Casino. This prompted Belizean authorities to launch their own investigation, which revealed an unauthorized ATM dispensing U.S. currency and raised questions about Ray’s extensive list of golf cart permits on the island.
The Central Bank of Belize and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) subsequently initiated probes into Ray’s operations. Although he faced no charges in Belize at the time, the Ministry of Finance revoked the gaming license for GMK Sky Limited, the company operating Caribi Bleu Casino, on July 25, 2025. The public was advised to cease all business dealings with the entity, and operations were ordered to halt immediately.
Reports now estimate the value of Ray’s illegal operations at $24 million. He is set to be prosecuted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO), marking a significant blow to his once-thriving casino empire.
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Flow and Government of Grenada renew JUMP programme
In a significant stride toward digital inclusion, Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique are set to witness a transformative impact as 1,500 families gain access to affordable internet, free digital literacy training, and complimentary laptops. This initiative is part of the renewed partnership between Flow and the Government of Grenada under the JUMP Programme, a national effort to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities. The agreement was formalized at a signing ceremony held at the Grenada Trade Centre Annexe, attended by Lincoln Baptiste, Country Manager of Flow, and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. Launched in 2023, JUMP has already enabled 652 families to access affordable home internet and digital training. Over the next two years, the programme aims to enroll 1,500 households, offering reliable internet for $20 per month, free digital skills training, and laptops for eligible families. Lincoln Baptiste emphasized the programme’s purpose-driven nature, stating, ‘JUMP is about people, families who deserve equal access to opportunity, children who can now learn online, job seekers who can apply with confidence, and seniors who can connect with loved ones abroad.’ Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell highlighted the programme’s role in fostering national progress, calling digital access a necessity rather than a luxury. The initiative is supported by the Liberty Caribbean Foundation, the Mona School of Business and Management, and One-on-One Educational Services, ensuring tailored digital training. Collaborative efforts with schools, community outreach, and government programmes like SEED aim to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age.
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Here’s One Way You Can Join the Season of Giving
The Salvation Army has officially launched its annual Kettle Drive, a charitable initiative designed to bring warmth, meals, and holiday cheer to children and families in need across Belize. The campaign, which began this morning, aims to raise $100,000 to provide Christmas dinners and gifts for nearly a thousand children in the region. Major Marc Eddy Momplaisir, the District Officer for the Salvation Army, emphasized the significance of the drive, stating, ‘It is a joy. It is really love. So having Kettle launching today in Belize, it means love. It means compassion. You see hope, and you see children who are already happy because they believe the Salvation Army will bring something to them.’ All funds raised will remain in Belize, directly supporting over 800 children, with the potential to extend aid to a thousand in other communities. Last year’s campaign achieved 75% of its target, but Momplaisir remains optimistic about this year’s goal, urging stakeholders, partners, and Belizeans to unite in their efforts. Volunteers will be stationed near banks and superstores in the coming weeks, encouraging donations to ensure that every coin contributes to brightening the holidays for children and the elderly.
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‘Use It or Be Punished?’ Bishop Martin Students Threatened Over MOE-Issued Chromebooks
A recent initiative by Belize’s Ministry of Education (MOE) to distribute Chromebooks to students at Bishop Martin High School (BMHS) has sparked controversy and raised concerns among parents and students. The devices, part of the Skills for the Future Program, aim to provide equitable access to digital learning tools and support Belize’s transition to a more technologically advanced educational system. However, the mandatory use of these Chromebooks has led to friction within the school community.
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Dominican roads: a catastrophe on two wheels
The Dominican Republic is facing a dire road safety crisis as the provinces of La Altagracia and Santiago witness a sharp rise in motorcycle-related fatalities. Over the second half of 2025, these regions have been plagued by a series of devastating accidents, many of which have resulted in deaths and severe injuries. The root causes of these tragedies include reckless driving, illegal street racing, and a widespread neglect of basic safety measures, such as helmet use. Recent incidents underscore the gravity of the situation. On November 3, a late-night collision in La Otra Banda claimed the life of Felipe José Wade Salas and left 21-year-old Jhon Manuel Jiménez hospitalized. Earlier, in Higüey, 50-year-old Eduardo Antonio Lorenzo de los Santos died in a hit-and-run accident while riding without a helmet. The crisis is further exacerbated by a dangerous culture of illegal street racing. In Santiago, 16-year-old José David Montilla lost his life in October after crashing into a guardrail during a high-speed race. Similarly, in May, two young men, Luis Ángel Rodríguez Ramírez and Joandri Francisco, died during a clandestine race in Navarrete. Official statistics reveal the scale of the problem: La Altagracia recorded 3,144 traffic fatalities in 2024, with un-helmeted motorcyclists accounting for the majority. Authorities are now under increasing pressure to implement stricter traffic controls, enforce laws against illegal racing, and promote helmet use to prevent further loss of life.
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China’s CO2-uitstoot piekt later dan verwacht, ambitieuze klimaatdoelen
China, the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, is projected to reach its peak carbon emissions later than previously anticipated. A recent survey of 68 climate experts reveals that 70% expect emissions to peak around 2028, a shift from earlier predictions that suggested a peak by 2025 or sooner. This delay underscores the complexities of China’s transition to a greener economy. In September, the Chinese government announced ambitious climate targets, including a 7-10% reduction in emissions from peak levels by 2035 and a goal for non-fossil fuels to account for over 30% of energy consumption. By 2060, China aims to achieve carbon neutrality, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s vision of an ‘ecological civilization.’ These objectives highlight China’s dual role as both the largest emitter and a global leader in green technologies such as wind and solar energy, as well as electric vehicles. Despite these efforts, climate specialists argue that China’s current ambitions fall short of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C, the target set by the Paris Agreement. China’s climate policy is under close international scrutiny, especially given the U.S.’s temporary withdrawal from the agreement and mounting global pressure. China’s strategy is annually reviewed and refined through documents like the ‘Nationally Determined Contributions’ (NDCs), which outline national emission reduction targets. The upcoming COP30 climate conference in Brazil, starting November 6, is seen as a critical moment to assess whether China and other nations will contribute sufficiently to combating climate change. The conference follows preparatory events, including a business meeting in São Paulo and a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, setting the stage for high-stakes negotiations. In summary, China faces the dual challenge of peaking its emissions in the coming years and then drastically reducing them. The interplay of political will, technological innovation, and international pressure will determine China’s continued leadership in the global climate transition.
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Tems to star at 2026 Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival
The 2026 Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival has announced the inclusion of two global music icons in its lineup: British soul sensation Beverley Knight and Nigerian Afrobeat star Tems. The announcement was made during a special preview event at the 2025 World Travel Market in London, hosted by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority on November 6. The event drew over 40 media representatives, influencers, trade partners, and members of the Saint Lucian diaspora, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark edition of the festival. Beverley Knight, celebrated as one of Britain’s greatest soul singers, gained fame in the 1990s with hits like ‘Shoulda Woulda Coulda’ and ‘Greatest Day.’ Tems, a rising star from Nigeria, has earned international acclaim since her feature on Wizkid’s ‘Essence,’ with solo hits such as ‘Free Mind’ and ‘Me & U,’ as well as co-writing credits on Rihanna’s ‘Lift Me Up.’ The festival, scheduled to run from April 30 to May 10, 2026, aims to attract global audiences and strengthen Saint Lucia’s position as a cultural hub. Thaddeus Antoine, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and the festival committee, emphasized the event’s role in fostering international partnerships and showcasing the island’s vibrant culture. The full lineup and ticket details will be unveiled in January 2026.