Carib Scope

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  • Orientation Programme for Ghanaian Nurses Continues with Ministry-Level Engagement

    Orientation Programme for Ghanaian Nurses Continues with Ministry-Level Engagement

    A significant phase in the comprehensive orientation program for Ghanaian nursing professionals has commenced with high-level engagements at the ministerial level. This strategic initiative represents a critical component of Ghana’s broader healthcare workforce development strategy, designed to enhance professional competencies and align nursing practices with national health priorities.

    The ministry-level engagement provides participating nurses with unprecedented access to policy makers, health sector leaders, and government officials. Through structured dialogues, policy briefings, and strategic discussions, nurses gain vital insights into the national healthcare framework, regulatory expectations, and the government’s vision for healthcare delivery improvement across Ghana.

    This elevated orientation phase focuses on multiple dimensions of professional development, including healthcare policy interpretation, ethical standards in medical practice, patient safety protocols, and quality assurance mechanisms. Participants receive comprehensive briefings on Ghana’s current public health challenges, resource allocation strategies, and the evolving role of nursing professionals within the national healthcare ecosystem.

    The program emphasizes the government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system through strategic investments in human capital development. By facilitating direct interaction between frontline nursing professionals and health policy architects, the initiative creates pathways for practical implementation of healthcare policies and fosters a deeper understanding of systemic challenges and opportunities.

    Health officials highlight that this engagement transcends conventional orientation programs by establishing continuous feedback mechanisms between policy makers and healthcare implementers. The initiative aims to enhance service delivery, improve patient outcomes, and elevate professional standards across Ghana’s healthcare institutions while addressing specific regional healthcare disparities through targeted workforce development.

  • US Radiologist donates mammogram equipment to General Hospital

    US Radiologist donates mammogram equipment to General Hospital

    In a transformative development for women’s healthcare, Grenada has achieved a medical milestone with the installation of its first mammogram equipment featuring integrated biopsy capability at the General Hospital. This advanced diagnostic technology was formally donated by prominent US radiologist Dr. Randy Becker, marking a significant upgrade to the nation’s public healthcare infrastructure.

    The donation addresses a critical health priority in Grenada, where breast cancer represents the predominant cause of cancer-related mortality among women. The sophisticated machinery promises to revolutionize early detection capabilities, enabling radiologists to conduct comprehensive breast examinations with real-time precision and manage complex diagnostic procedures more effectively.

    During the handover ceremony last Friday, Health Minister Hon. Philip Telesford characterized the acquisition as an historic achievement in the nation’s healthcare evolution. Minister Telesford emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding Grenada’s medical landscape with technology that directly addresses citizens’ most pressing health needs, noting this equipment exemplifies their vision for transformative healthcare delivery.

    Dr. Becker explained the clinical significance of the technology, highlighting its capacity to enhance diagnostic accuracy and streamline patient management. The initiative substantially improves accessibility to essential women’s health screening services, representing a major advancement in preventive healthcare for Grenadian women.

    The Ministry of Health has endorsed this development as a cornerstone in its ongoing efforts to modernize medical services and reduce breast cancer mortality through early intervention and state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities.

  • Morne-Casse : Anti-Gang Training Center dedicated to specialized units

    Morne-Casse : Anti-Gang Training Center dedicated to specialized units

    A major security infrastructure project is approaching its final stages in Morne-Casse, Haiti, with the imminent completion of a high-capacity police training facility funded by the Canadian government and implemented through the Organization of American States (OAS). This strategic installation represents a significant advancement in Haiti’s ongoing battle against gang violence and organized crime.

    On February 10, 2026, a high-level delegation from the Haitian National Police (PNH) conducted an extensive inspection of the facility. The delegation was led by Acting PNH Chief Vladimir Paraison and included senior officials from various police departments, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to this security initiative.

    The specialized training center, constructed on a sprawling six-hectare site, has been specifically designed to enhance the operational capabilities of specialized police units confronting gang-related threats. With capacity to simultaneously train up to 200 officers, the facility boasts comprehensive training infrastructure including modern classrooms, residential dormitories, dining facilities, and recreational areas.

    The center’s advanced tactical training features include a 100-meter shooting range, international-standard moving target ranges, and specialized tactical courses. Notably, the facility operates with energy independence through a hybrid power system combining solar energy with generator backup.

    The training program will commence with an intensive three-week instructor certification course scheduled for late February. These newly trained instructors will subsequently disseminate specialized techniques and tactical knowledge throughout Haiti’s operational police units, aiming to standardize and elevate intervention capabilities nationwide.

    This Morne-Casse facility is envisioned as the cornerstone of an expanded national training network. Future development plans include establishing at least four additional similar centers across Haiti, particularly in the southern regions, complementing the existing Port-au-Prince facility. This decentralized approach aims to ensure comprehensive geographic coverage and tailored responses to diverse security challenges throughout the country.

  • Dominica increases lab capacity under the Pandemic Preparedness Initiative

    Dominica increases lab capacity under the Pandemic Preparedness Initiative

    In a significant boost to regional health security, six Eastern Caribbean nations have received state-of-the-art laboratory equipment valued at approximately $85,000 through a multi-organizational partnership. The donation, formally handed over to Dominica’s National Laboratory, represents a critical component of the regional initiative “Strengthening Prevention, Preparedness and Response to Emerging Health Threats in the Eastern Caribbean.”

    The collaborative effort involves Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with support from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Bank. Funding was provided through the Pandemic Fund, established in 2022 specifically to enhance pandemic preparedness in low- and middle-income countries, with additional backing from the Fleming Fund.

    At the heart of the donation is the VITEK 2 compact system—a sophisticated microbiological instrument described by Senior Laboratory Technologist Craig Henry as a “nuclear weapon” in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The comprehensive equipment package also includes a vertical freezer, PCR consumables, pipette kits, a microcentrifuge, and various specialized laboratory supplies designed to significantly elevate diagnostic capabilities across the region.

    Henry emphasized the transformative impact of the new technology: “The laboratory can now routinely identify organisms to species level, and for the first time, fungal susceptibility is done routinely. This means clinicians can receive antibiotic treatment options more quickly, greatly enhancing patient outcomes.”

    The equipment’s integrated patient data management system and ability to generate antibiograms will further strengthen antimicrobial stewardship efforts at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital and nationwide. The timing coincides with high-level discussions under the Pandemic Fund, including a recent February 5 meeting between PAHO/WHO, health ministry officials, and development partners.

    Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative: “This launch marks a major milestone for the Eastern Caribbean region. By embracing a One Health approach and reinforcing our systems together, we are building a future where countries can detect, respond to, and prevent emerging threats more effectively.”

    The project adopts the One Health framework, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. For Dominica and its regional partners, this equipment donation represents a substantial advancement in national health security infrastructure, better positioning the region to prevent, detect, and respond swiftly to future public health emergencies.

  • 172 Caye Caulker Students to Get Free Tuition

    172 Caye Caulker Students to Get Free Tuition

    The island community of Caye Caulker is poised for a significant educational transformation with dual announcements of infrastructure development and financial support for students. Following the closure of Ocean Academy’s campus last year, which left the island without a physical high school, construction of a permanent educational facility is scheduled to commence by July 2026.

    Area Representative André Perez confirmed that officials from the Ministry of Education will conduct a site assessment next week to finalize development plans. To address immediate educational needs, temporary classroom structures meeting proper standards will be installed in the interim. Perez emphasized that these temporary facilities would include essential infrastructure such as electricity, water, and sanitation to ensure they serve both immediate and long-term purposes.

    In a parallel development, the government has confirmed comprehensive tuition coverage for 172 Caye Caulker students beginning next fiscal year. This initiative aligns the island with tuition-free arrangements already established at other public high schools across the nation. Perez highlighted that the funding, previously delayed due to budgetary constraints, has now received formal approval from Education Minister Francis Fonseca.

    The combined infrastructure and financial support measures represent a comprehensive approach to educational accessibility, potentially easing financial burdens for families and encouraging higher secondary school retention rates within the island community.

  • CARICOM Invests $50M into Belize’s Sugar Sector

    CARICOM Invests $50M into Belize’s Sugar Sector

    Belize’s critically important sugar sector, which has faced severe challenges from prolonged droughts, erratic precipitation patterns, and devastating crop diseases, has secured a substantial $50 million investment from the CARICOM Climate Change Centre. This strategic funding, sourced through the international Green Climate Fund, aims to fortify the agricultural resilience of more than 5,000 sugarcane cultivators operating in Belize’s northern regions.

    Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the CARICOM Climate Change Centre, provided detailed insight into the comprehensive assistance package. “Our intervention encompasses multiple critical areas,” Young explained. “We will be implementing advanced land management methodologies, supplying high-quality seed cane for field rehabilitation, conducting extensive capacity-building programs, and offering conditional grants to incentivize adoption of sustainable farming practices.”

    The investment represents a strategic approach to constructing durable infrastructure and systems capable of withstanding environmental pressures and climate-induced disruptions. This initiative aligns with broader regional efforts to enhance agricultural sustainability across Caribbean Community member states.

    Osmond Martinez, Belize’s Minister of State for Economic Transformation, emphasized the transformative potential of this funding. Beyond immediate relief, the program will accelerate mechanization processes and expand irrigation capabilities, enabling farmers to transition from labor-intensive traditional harvesting methods to more efficient, climate-resilient approaches. Minister Martinez characterized the successful fund acquisition as “demonstrating Belize’s growing institutional capacity to mobilize international climate finance effectively.”

    The comprehensive program will introduce climate-smart agricultural techniques, distribute improved seed varieties with enhanced drought resistance, and provide direct financial support mechanisms. These coordinated interventions are designed to help agricultural producers adapt to increasingly severe weather conditions while ensuring the long-term viability and production continuity of Belize’s strategically vital sugar industry.

  • ‘Blackouts, No Fuel, Limited Transport’: Cuban Resident Speaks Out

    ‘Blackouts, No Fuel, Limited Transport’: Cuban Resident Speaks Out

    Cuba is confronting a severe national energy crisis characterized by extensive daily blackouts and crippling transportation limitations, according to firsthand accounts from residents. The island nation is currently implementing drastic rationing measures, with most households receiving merely three hours of electricity per day before being plunged into darkness.

    Rosalia Morales Babastro, a Cuban citizen, provided a stark depiction of daily life under these constraints. While confirming that fuel has not been entirely depleted, she detailed the stringent government controls now governing its distribution as reserves diminish critically. This scarcity stems primarily from stringent U.S. sanctions, which have severely curtailed oil shipments from traditional suppliers like Venezuela and Mexico and deterred other nations from engaging in energy trade with Cuba.

    The ramifications extend far beyond domestic inconvenience. Babastro highlighted the severe complications in transportation, with public services being selectively restored. Consequently, fuel prices on the informal market have skyrocketed, making it prohibitively expensive for most citizens to operate motorcycles or cars.

    The crisis has profoundly disrupted education and communication. University operations and schooling for students boarding away from home were temporarily suspended due to the instability. Furthermore, the limited electricity has severely degraded mobile data and internet connectivity, isolating citizens from information. Babastro reported an almost complete lack of internet access, preventing her from watching news or television due to the exceptionally poor connection.

    In a significant development impacting international travel, the Cuban government has issued formal warnings to airlines, notifying them of its inability to supply jet fuel at several key airports from February 11th to March 11th, 2026. This announcement has triggered widespread flight cancellations and significant disruptions to air travel, further isolating the country and stranding travelers.

  • If Telecoms Are Essential, Should They Be More Strictly Regulated?

    If Telecoms Are Essential, Should They Be More Strictly Regulated?

    Belize has initiated a significant regional collaboration by hosting a three-day workshop in Belmopan, bringing together international experts to address competition regulation within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. The event focuses on establishing robust frameworks to supervise business practices and foster healthy market competition across telecommunications and other essential sectors.

    Senior trade economist Berisford Codd emphasized the consumer protection aspects of the initiative, stating that comprehensive regulations would prevent corporate abuse of market dominance. “This ensures we implement laws and regulations to maintain market fairness for all Belizeans,” Codd explained. He highlighted that effective oversight leads to improved pricing, greater consumer choice, and enhanced innovation among businesses rather than market consolidation.

    Notably, most CARICOM member states already maintain competition laws, though Belize remains in the development phase of creating its national framework designed to integrate seamlessly with regional standards. The workshop is led by David Miller, Executive Director of the Jamaica Fair Trading Commission, who underscored the critical nature of telecommunications in modern society. “Telecoms have become essential services, comparable to electricity, water, and utilities. They are fundamental to daily life, operations, and business activities,” Miller asserted.

    The timing of these regulatory discussions coincides with ongoing debates surrounding Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet (SMART). Critics contend that this merger would establish a telecommunications monopoly, prompting Prime Minister John Briceño to intervene. The Prime Minister has instructed a temporary pause in acquisition discussions and requested the Public Utilities Commission to conduct a thorough review of the potential market implications.

  • Dominica ratifies PAHO/WHO Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–203, prioritizing regional cooperation in healthcare

    Dominica ratifies PAHO/WHO Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–203, prioritizing regional cooperation in healthcare

    In a significant advancement for regional public health, the Commonwealth of Dominica has formally endorsed the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization’s (PAHO/WHO) Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) for the period 2026–2031. This ratification positions Dominica alongside fellow Eastern Caribbean states in a unified effort to reinforce healthcare infrastructures through a framework built on solidarity, equity, and resilience.

    The comprehensive strategy, designed to serve Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, functions as a medium-term roadmap for health promotion and sustainable development. Its formulation followed extensive dialogues with member states, regional bodies, development allies, and civil society organizations, crystallizing a shared vision to confront emerging health crises while championing inclusive and equitable healthcare.

    Dr. Kyra Paul L’Homme, Permanent Secretary at Dominica’s Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, emphasized the strategy’s critical importance during the official signing ceremony. She outlined that the MCCS will catalyze the strengthening of Dominica’s health system via several key pillars: bolstering primary healthcare, enhancing emergency readiness, expanding the health workforce, driving digital transformation, and intensifying the fight against both communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. L’Homme highlighted the strategy’s role in fortifying national resilience and ensuring equitable access to quality health services amidst a volatile global landscape marked by supply chain disruptions and health security threats.

    This collaborative initiative is particularly vital for the Caribbean, a region navigating a complex health environment. Challenges include a high prevalence of NCDs, persistent infectious disease risks, and the escalating impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Health systems are further strained by workforce shortages and financial constraints, which often result in significant out-of-pocket costs for patients.

    In response, Eastern Caribbean governments are pursuing reforms focused on reinforcing primary care, advancing national health insurance, integrating health information systems, and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure. Dominica is already realizing benefits from PAHO’s Smart Hospitals Initiative, with completed upgrades to facilities in LaPlaine, Grand Bay, and Portsmouth, and future projects planned for Mahaut and Wesley.

    Grounded in the core principles of equity, resilience, and sustainability, the MCCS will utilize established regional platforms like the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and CARICOM to foster cooperation. The Government of Dominica has expressed its commitment to ongoing collaboration with PAHO/WHO and regional partners to transform this strategic blueprint into actionable measures, aiming to achieve substantial health improvements for its citizens and the wider Eastern Caribbean community.

  • CARICOM Chairman PM Terrance Drew speaks on visit to PM Skerrit, ahead of 50th CARICOM H.O.G gathering (with audio)

    CARICOM Chairman PM Terrance Drew speaks on visit to PM Skerrit, ahead of 50th CARICOM H.O.G gathering (with audio)

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of the Commonwealth of Dominica hosted Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis for high-level talks focused on strengthening Caribbean integration. The meeting, characterized by mutual respect and shared vision, primarily addressed strategic preparations for the upcoming 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Conference scheduled for February 24-27 in St. Kitts and Nevis.

    The leaders issued a joint statement emphasizing that regional solidarity within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) remains imperative for developing coordinated responses to shared challenges. They specifically highlighted the need for collaborative approaches to trade relations, economic integration, and contemporary geopolitical pressures affecting member states.

    Prime Minister Drew, who will host the landmark conference, provided substantive insights into the agenda during a subsequent media briefing. He confirmed that discussions would center on ‘advancing regional integration, enhancing trade mechanisms, and strengthening institutional relations within CARICOM as a unified entity.’

    When questioned about sensitive regional issues including U.S.-Venezuela tensions and visa policy developments, Drew advocated for a consensus-based approach among Caribbean leaders. He notably clarified that ‘no chairman serves as president or prime minister of CARICOM,’ underscoring the community’s commitment to collective decision-making.

    The leaders also addressed Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, which have recently faced international scrutiny. Prime Minister Drew defended these initiatives as beneficial when implemented with transparency and equitable access, arguing that unified management would ensure their continued viability.

    Both leaders exchanged commendations, with Drew praising Skerrit’s assertion that CARICOM’s founding principles remain critically relevant today. Skerrit reciprocated by applauding Drew’s unprecedented diplomatic outreach to fellow CARICOM heads of state prior to assuming conference leadership, describing it as a ‘noble decision’ that demonstrates exceptional commitment to regional cooperation.

    In lighter moments, Prime Minister Drew expressed particular admiration for Dominica’s natural beauty, noting that ‘the naturalness of Dominica is beautiful and irreplaceable.’

    Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Skerrit confirmed that Dominica’s first parliamentary session of 2026 will convene on February 23, immediately preceding the CARICOM conference.