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  • CARICOM and partners launch multi-tiered online training in crop protection for regional stakeholders

    CARICOM and partners launch multi-tiered online training in crop protection for regional stakeholders

    A significant capacity-building initiative is underway across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with hundreds of agricultural professionals embarking on an intensive six-week training program focused on advanced crop protection. This collaborative effort, which launched on January 26, 2025, represents a strategic partnership between the CARICOM Secretariat, the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), and the non-profit organization COLEAD, which specializes in sustainable agriculture.

    The program employs a flexible online learning format designed to accommodate working professionals. It specifically targets farm managers, horticulturalists, production supervisors, nursery operators, and other key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain. The curriculum is structured to address critical challenges facing CARICOM member states, particularly those related to pest management, disease control, and meeting international sanitary standards.

    Shaun Baugh, Programme Manager for Agriculture at the CARICOM Secretariat, emphasized the program’s significance during opening remarks. He highlighted how effective crop protection directly influences yield quality, production costs, market accessibility, and ultimately, farmer livelihoods. The training has already attracted substantial interest, with over 300 registrations and approximately 150 participants actively engaged from the outset.

    The initiative aligns with CARICOM’s ambitious ‘Vision 25 x 2025 + 5’ food security framework, which aims to reduce the region’s food import expenditure by 25% through enhanced local production and improved trade capabilities. Ansari Hosein, Executive Director of CARDI, further contextualized the training’s importance by noting the compounding challenges of climate change, pest-related crop losses, and stringent international trade requirements.

    The educational program follows a progressive three-tier structure:

    – Foundation Level: Introduces core principles of crop protection, pest identification, and the role of chemical controls within integrated management systems

    – Intermediate Level: Examines pest biology, population dynamics, plant diseases, weed competition, and resistance issues with focus on yield optimization

    – Advanced Level: Develops practical skills in pest monitoring, intervention thresholds, and strategy implementation using real-world case studies

    Upon completion in March, participants will be equipped with enhanced capabilities to identify threats, implement appropriate interventions, and apply protection measures more efficiently—directly contributing to the region’s food sovereignty and economic resilience.

  • Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and Environmental Health Unit collaborate to enhance food safety standards across major agricultural sectors

    Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and Environmental Health Unit collaborate to enhance food safety standards across major agricultural sectors

    Dominica has taken significant strides in strengthening its agricultural sector through a comprehensive Food Safety and Hygiene Training Workshop held on January 28, 2026. The collaborative event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Environmental Health Unit, convened at the Prevost Cinemall to address critical food safety protocols.

    The workshop formed an integral component of the Gender-Responsive Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Systems (GCAF) Initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada. Twelve participants representing diverse agricultural sectors including vegetable production, apiculture, and dasheen supply chains participated in the capacity-building program.

    Under the guidance of Mrs. Calma Louis, Environmental Officer from the Environmental Health Unit, and with support from FAO specialists Mrs. Shan Oliver-Julien and Mrs. Amonia Paul-Rolle, the training focused on implementing enhanced food safety standards and hygiene practices. The curriculum combined practical hands-on instruction with strategic discussions about inclusive, gender-responsive approaches to agricultural development.

    Participants acquired essential knowledge in proper food handling techniques, sanitation procedures, and compliance with national health regulations. This empowerment enables them to implement elevated standards within their operations, thereby contributing to more robust and secure food systems throughout Dominica.

    The initiative demonstrates the sustained partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, and the Environmental Health Unit to strengthen agricultural capabilities, protect public health, and promote climate-resilient farming practices. The GCAF Project continues to support farmers, producer groups, and value-chain stakeholders in adopting climate-smart methodologies, improving market readiness, and ensuring equitable participation across gender lines in vital agricultural sectors—ultimately fostering more sustainable food systems nationwide.

  • Car Dealer Fatally Shot in Corozal Town

    Car Dealer Fatally Shot in Corozal Town

    COROZAL TOWN, BELIZE — A brutal targeted assassination has claimed the life of a local automobile entrepreneur, marking the second violent attempt on his life within three months. Calvin Myers, 36, from Calcutta Village, was executed with a single gunshot to the head while entering Hotel Martin on First Avenue around 8:00 PM Thursday evening.

    According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police investigations, Myers had just been dropped off at the establishment when an unidentified assailant emerged from the roadside and delivered the fatal point-blank shot. The perpetrator immediately fled the scene in a waiting vehicle parked nearby, demonstrating calculated premeditation.

    This homicide represents an escalation of violence against Myers, who survived a previous shooting incident in November 2025 within the same municipality. The recurrence suggests either an unresolved criminal vendetta or ongoing tensions within the local business community.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation but have yet to establish a motive or make any arrests. The Brazen nature of the attack in a public location has raised concerns about public safety and organized crime in the region.

    The case continues to develop as police pursue multiple investigative avenues. Additional information is anticipated during the News 5 evening broadcast at 6:00 PM as investigators work to unravel the circumstances behind this targeted killing.

  • ‘His Priority Was Music’: Belizean Artist Killed in US

    ‘His Priority Was Music’: Belizean Artist Killed in US

    The Belizean music community is mourning the tragic loss of artist Anfernee ‘Big Bang’ Pollard, who was fatally shot during a domestic altercation at his Las Vegas residence on Thursday, January 30, 2026. The 31-year-old recording artist, who had relocated to the United States to advance his musical career, was reportedly targeted along with a female companion by her former partner according to preliminary investigations.

    Law enforcement authorities confirmed that the incident was reported to police by a 10-year-old child present at the residence, highlighting the traumatic circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate the case as a domestic violence homicide.

    Pollard’s brother, Allan Pollard, remembered the artist as a deeply focused and ambitious individual who prioritized his musical aspirations above all else. ‘Those who knew Bang personally understood he wasn’t involved in trouble—he was a solid, grounded youth completely dedicated to his craft,’ Allan stated in an emotional tribute.

    The entertainment industry in Belize has been shaken by Pollard’s untimely death, with an outpouring of grief flooding social media platforms. Fans and colleagues have celebrated his contributions to the music scene, particularly hits like ‘Cocaina’ and ‘Classy’ that established his distinctive sound and energetic performance style.

    One tribute captured the collective sentiment: ‘Big Bang Manifest revolutionized Belizean music with an undeniable energy that captivated the nation. His artistic legacy will continue to resonate through his recordings, ensuring his cultural impact endures beyond his tragic passing.’

    As developments continue to emerge, the Belizean community awaits further details while reflecting on the premature loss of a talented artist whose career showed immense promise.

  • Sugar Slump Drags Exports at Year’s End

    Sugar Slump Drags Exports at Year’s End

    Belize concluded 2025 with a significantly expanded trade imbalance, according to newly released data from the Statistical Institute of Belize. The nation’s economic portrait revealed a stark contrast between surging import expenditures and collapsing export revenues during the critical December trading period.

    Import figures soared by 17.7% year-over-year to reach $271.4 million in the final month of 2025. This substantial increase was propelled by several major capital acquisitions including a sailing catamaran, aircraft engine, and commercial kitchen equipment. Concurrently, the country experienced notable spikes in fuel imports alongside increased purchases of fertilizers, processed food items, and steel coils.

    The export sector presented a dramatically different narrative, with earnings plummeting 68.2% from the previous December. Revenue crashed from $77 million in December 2024 to a mere $24.5 million one year later. This devastating decline was predominantly driven by the complete absence of bulk sugar shipments during the period, representing a nearly $50 million loss. Other traditional export commodities including molasses, citrus products, and marine goods similarly recorded diminished returns. Bananas emerged as the sole positive performer, climbing to $9 million in export value.

    Geographic trade patterns underwent notable shifts throughout December. Export earnings from the United Kingdom deteriorated substantially, while sales to the United States, CARICOM nations, and Central American partners also declined. Conversely, shipments to European Union markets showed improvement primarily due to banana exports, and trade with Mexico expanded following increased cattle sales.

    For the entirety of 2025, Belize’s import total reached $2.91 billion, remaining virtually unchanged from 2024 levels. Meanwhile, annual exports contracted by 16% to $390 million. The sugar sector again dominated this annual decline, though marginal relief was provided by marine products, bananas, beans, and cattle exports.

  • ExxonMobil mulls working in Stabroek Block nearer Venezuela

    ExxonMobil mulls working in Stabroek Block nearer Venezuela

    ExxonMobil is evaluating potential hydrocarbon exploration in the contested Stabroek Block near Venezuela’s maritime border, citing improved regional security conditions following significant political developments in Caracas. CEO Darren Woods revealed during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call that reduced Venezuelan naval patrols could create a “more friendly environment” for operations in previously inaccessible zones.

    The strategic reconsideration follows dramatic changes in Venezuela’s political landscape, including the recent capture and extradition of former President Nicolas Maduro to face narcotics and weapons charges in the United States. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez’s administration has demonstrated increased cooperation with international partners, implementing legislative reforms designed to attract foreign energy investment.

    Historical tensions have previously prevented exploration in the border-adjacent areas, with Venezuelan naval forces expelling seismic research vessels in both 2013 and 2018. The current force majeure status—implemented due to security concerns—has effectively paused operational timelines, which Woods characterized as providing strategic flexibility rather than hindering development.

    The International Court of Justice’s pending ruling on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award represents a critical determinant for future activities. This legal proceeding, addressing the longstanding Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, will substantially influence ExxonMobil’s operational decisions in the region.

    Despite these geopolitical complexities, ExxonMobil continues achieving exceptional production levels in Guyana, currently extracting approximately 875,000 barrels daily across four Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels. This output exceeds initial investment projections by 100,000 barrels, demonstrating remarkable operational efficiency.

    With the Stabroek Block exploration license expiring in late 2027, the company is conducting comprehensive seismic analysis and leveraging data from development wells to identify optimal drilling targets. Woods indicated the company would make strategically informed decisions regarding block relinquishment based on geological assessments and opportunity evaluations.

  • Jones pledges accountable representation for Christ Church East Central

    Jones pledges accountable representation for Christ Church East Central

    In a compelling address at the Democratic Labour Party’s (DLP) candidate presentation in Oistins, first-time political contender Quincy Jones articulated his vision for transformative representation in Christ Church East Central. The DLP’s second vice-president, who is making his inaugural bid for public office, presented a comprehensive governance framework centered on constituent engagement and accountability.

    Jones emphatically declared that parliamentary representation constitutes a profound responsibility rather than a privilege, committing to establish regular constituency clinics, maintain open communication channels, and implement a transparent advisory structure. “This seat does not belong to any individual,” Jones asserted before the assembled crowd. “It belongs to the people of Christ Church East Central.”

    The political newcomer reframed conventional perceptions of inexperience as positive attributes, characterizing his approach as “fresh commitment” and “freedom from baggage.” He positioned his lack of political history as an opportunity to implement innovative solutions and approach governance with renewed discipline and integrity.

    Jones detailed critical concerns gathered through extensive constituency outreach, identifying pressing issues affecting residents’ daily lives. These include the escalating cost of living that strains household budgets, inadequate road infrastructure and drainage systems that receive attention primarily during election cycles, and concerning youth underemployment despite adequate training and qualifications.

    Additional challenges highlighted encompass small business viability amid economic pressures and deteriorating community safety in previously secure neighborhoods. Jones emphasized that these are not abstract policy matters but tangible realities requiring practical solutions beyond political rhetoric.

    The candidate concluded by positioning the Democratic Labour Party’s full slate of candidates as prepared to deliver effective governance following the February 11th election, presenting the party as equipped to address Barbados’ most pressing socioeconomic challenges through dedicated representation.

  • Veira na vrijspraak: God is groot en zeer te prijzen

    Veira na vrijspraak: God is groot en zeer te prijzen

    In a dramatic courtroom reversal, Lieutenant Colonel Danielle Veira, former head of the Directorate of National Security (DNV), was fully acquitted of all charges by the Military Court on January 30th. The emotional scene unfolded immediately after the verdict was delivered, with Veira visibly overcome with emotion as she addressed journalists outside the courthouse.

    Veira, who had faced a potential nine-year prison sentence with immediate incarceration as requested by the military prosecutor, expressed profound gratitude for the outcome. ‘God is great and worthy of all praise. He has not abandoned me,’ she stated, her voice trembling with emotion. The former security chief described the past five years as an exceptionally challenging period in her life.

    ‘I have journeyed through these five difficult years, and I am grateful that today has demonstrated to those who care about me – and even to those who hoped for a different outcome – that God is the ultimate judge,’ Veira declared. She expressed her belief that justice had been served through the court’s decision.

    Veira specifically thanked the judges for what she characterized as their ‘insight and discernment’ in reaching the verdict. She also acknowledged her family and all those who had supported her throughout the lengthy legal process. The comprehensive acquittal covered all charges that had been brought against her by the military prosecution.

    Concluding her remarks, Veira requested time for reflection and peace, repeating her initial statement: ‘God is great and worthy of all praise.’ The case has drawn significant public attention given Veira’s former high-ranking position in the nation’s security apparatus.

  • Rising Rents and Healthcare Costs Push Inflation Up

    Rising Rents and Healthcare Costs Push Inflation Up

    Belize concluded 2025 with persistent inflationary pressures as escalating housing and medical expenses drove a 0.3% year-over-year consumer price increase in December, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize. The latest economic data reveals concerning trends for household budgets despite some relief in transportation and food categories.

    Key inflationary drivers included substantial hikes in rental accommodation costs and medical services. The liquefied petroleum gas market witnessed significant pressure, with standard 100-pound cylinders rising by $4.43 to reach $129.76. Healthcare services registered across-the-board increases, encompassing both professional consultation fees and pharmaceutical products.

    The hospitality sector contributed to inflationary trends with marked increases in restaurant pricing and accommodation services. These upward movements were partially mitigated by declining transportation costs, primarily attributable to reduced fuel prices throughout the closing month of 2025.

    Contrary to broader trends, the food category demonstrated modest deflation with notable price reductions in vegetable products including tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. Regional analysis revealed substantial disparities in inflation rates across municipalities, with San Pedro Town experiencing the highest inflation at 1.4% while Independence Village recorded deflation at -0.4%.

    The cumulative annual inflation rate for 2025 reached 1.1%, reflecting sustained financial pressure on Belizean households despite some category-specific relief. Economic analysts emphasize that the persistent elevation of essential service costs continues to strain family budgets even as certain commodity markets show signs of stabilization.

  • Saint Lucia holds Guatemala in U-17 women’s football

    Saint Lucia holds Guatemala in U-17 women’s football

    In a display of remarkable defensive resilience, Saint Lucia’s under-17 women’s football team achieved their first competitive point in Group C of the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers. The historic goalless draw against Guatemala unfolded on Thursday evening at Willemstad’s Stadion Rignaal Jean Francisca in Curaçao, marking a significant milestone for the Caribbean squad.

    Facing considerable adversity, the Piton Girlz were compelled to implement strategic adjustments following Ivana Marshall’s suspension due to a red card received during Tuesday’s match against Haiti. Coach Emmanuel deployed forward Amaya Emmanuel in an unaccustomed defensive role, orchestrating a tactical shift to a 4-3-3 formation that saw Nyeesha Antoine spearheading the attacking line.

    The match dynamics heavily favored Guatemala, who entered the contest with momentum from consecutive victories against The Cayman Islands (1-0) and Antigua and Barbuda (5-0). The Central American team launched an offensive onslaught from the opening whistle, testing Saint Lucian goalkeeper Alyssa Flavius with multiple attempts within the initial ten minutes.

    Guatemala’s dominance manifested through overwhelming statistical advantages: 24 attempted shots compared to Saint Lucia’s mere two, coupled with 67.9% possession control. The match’s pivotal moment arrived in the 38th minute when Guatemala earned a penalty after Hayla Samuel fouled Lourdes López within the penalty area. However, Emery Aguilar’s subsequent shot veered wide, preserving the deadlock.

    Saint Lucia’s defensive organization proved impregnable throughout the contest, with the backline demonstrating exceptional composure against a Guatemalan squad featuring three United States-based players. The introduction of substitute Joyceline Neptune following Antoine’s injury provided fresh energy during the second half.

    The team now prepares for their crucial Saturday encounter against group bottom-dwellers Antigua and Barbuda, who have conceded 15 goals across their previous three matches.