Carib Scope

博客

  • ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    Marlene Street Forrest, the recently retired Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), has made a swift return to the financial sector by establishing her own consultancy firm. Having concluded her 26-year tenure at the JSE in September 2025—a period the exchange hailed as exceptionally transformational—Street Forrest announced the launch of Street Forrest Business Consultancy Ltd in January 2026.

    The venture represents a strategic redirection of her expertise rather than a conventional retirement. In interviews with Jamaican media, Street Forrest clarified that her motivation stems from identified gaps in corporate governance structures across businesses of all sizes. “I’ve seen where there are many things in business where small, medium, and even large companies need help,” she explained, specifically highlighting deficiencies in governance frameworks and unwritten operating procedures.

    Her consultancy model will leverage the extensive network and knowledge she accumulated leading the Caribbean’s premier securities exchange. Services will encompass policymaking guidance, regulatory assistance, and hands-on mentorship programs for corporate clients. Beyond immediate structural improvements, Street Forrest envisions contributing to regional capital market development, potentially assisting other Caribbean nations in establishing or strengthening their stock exchange operations.

    The consultancy will operate through a collaborative model, engaging external experts and credible industry providers to deliver comprehensive services. Street Forrest also expressed particular interest in supporting social sector organizations through pro bono or reduced-rate arrangements.

    She measures success not by visibility but by systemic impact: creating robust governance systems that continue functioning long after her engagement concludes. This approach, she believes, will ultimately foster stronger enterprises, better-governed institutions, and more confident investment environments throughout the region.

  • Forensic firepower

    Forensic firepower

    Jamaica’s premier financial crime investigation agencies have achieved unprecedented success in dismantling sophisticated money laundering schemes through revolutionary forensic capabilities. The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and Financial Investigations Division (FID) report uncovering hundreds of millions of dollars in criminal assets that have significantly boosted state coffers.

    According to Colonel Desmond Edwards, Director General of MOCA, criminal organizations have responded to enhanced investigative capabilities by developing increasingly complex methods to conceal illicit gains. ‘Criminals are very much aware, which is why they come up with all kinds of seemingly ingenious ways of hiding their assets—even using unwitting relatives,’ Edwards revealed during a Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange session.

    The agencies have undergone a transformative evolution over the past decade, particularly in developing cyber forensic capabilities and financial investigation expertise. MOCA now leads criminal investigations while FID specializes in asset recovery using the same evidence, creating a comprehensive division of labor that has proven remarkably effective.

    Dennis Chung, FID’s Chief Technical Director, confirmed that their forensic investigators are ‘top of the line,’ regularly discovering assets that criminals believed were safely hidden. The success rate has generated such concern within criminal circles that lawyers frequently approach the agencies attempting to negotiate settlements—offers that are consistently rejected.

    Nigel Parke, Senior Director of Legal and Prosecutorial Services at MOCA, explained that the most common concealment method—registering assets under third-party names—has been effectively neutralized through amended legislation and enhanced investigative techniques. The amended Companies Act now allows investigators to trace beneficial ownership by examining acquisition means and following paper trails.

    The results speak for themselves: 2025 saw confiscations of $164.1 million in cash plus court-ordered confiscations exceeding $33 million and US$35,000 in assets. MOCA conducted 33 significant operations resulting in 35 arrests, 30 charges, and 11 convictions. The agencies maintain strict protocols regarding public disclosure, respecting citizens’ rights and preserving the integrity of ongoing court proceedings involving hundreds of millions of dollars.

  • CHOOSE WISELY!

    CHOOSE WISELY!

    With just nine weeks remaining until their decisive World Cup qualification bid, Jamaica’s national football team faces a monumental challenge in the inter-confederation playoffs. Captain Andre Blake maintains cautious optimism while emphasizing that strategic personnel selection will prove critical to their success.

    The Reggae Boyz, having fallen short of automatic qualification after finishing second to Curacao in CONCACAF’s Group B, now face a challenging playoff pathway. Their journey begins with a semi-final clash against Oceania’s New Caledonia on March 26th. A victory would propel them into a final confrontation against Africa’s DR Congo, with the ultimate prize being placement in World Cup Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

    Reflecting on their qualification struggle, Blake acknowledged the team’s self-inflicted predicament: “We still have a chance. Obviously, it’s not going to be easy, but we kind of put ourselves in this position, and we’re going to have to go out there and fight for our lives.”

    The team’s disappointing 0-0 draw against World Cup-bound Curacao in November at Kingston’s National Stadium precipitated immediate changes, including the departure of Head Coach Steve McClaren. Blake described the atmosphere during that fateful match as electric, noting “The only thing missing from that game was us scoring a goal or two to win the game.”

    Subsequent restructuring saw the Jamaica Football Federation appoint Rudolph Speid as interim head coach with Miguel Coley as assistant. The technical staff has been further strengthened with the addition of Arsenal youth coach Michael Donaldson as assistant coach and former national goalkeeper Aaron Lawrence specializing in goalkeeper development.

    Despite naming a 52-man provisional squad, Speid faces logistical challenges with most European and American-based players unavailable until March due to club commitments outside FIFA international windows. This constraint was evident as a predominantly local squad secured a 1-0 friendly victory against Grenada on Sunday.

    Blake emphasized that tactical coherence outweighs individual talent: “We have the pieces for sure, we just haven’t been able to bring it together. For me, the most important thing is we don’t need the best players, we need the right players.”

    The 35-year-old goalkeeper, who has earned 92 international caps, envisions qualification as transformative for Jamaican football: “It would be a dream come true for me. It would bring so much joy to the people of Jamaica, so much inspiration for the younger generation.” Having last appeared in the 1998 France World Cup, the Reggae Boyz now stand on the precipice of returning to football’s global stage.

  • Cuban government riaffirms gratitude to China for rice donation

    Cuban government riaffirms gratitude to China for rice donation

    In a significant demonstration of international solidarity, Cuba has formally received the initial shipment of a 30,000-ton cereal donation from China. The arrival of the aid was officially confirmed during a reception ceremony held on Monday, attended by high-ranking officials from both nations.

    Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla publicly acknowledged the contribution on social media platform X, characterizing it as a profound symbol of the ‘close brotherhood and historical ties of friendship’ that bind the two countries. The humanitarian assistance is specifically designated to bolster Cuba’s basic food basket, addressing critical nutritional needs of the Cuban population.

    Cuban Vice Prime Minister Oscar Pérez-Oliva provided operational details during the reception, confirming that two initial deliveries totaling 2,400 tons had already arrived through the Mariel container terminal and the port of Santiago de Cuba. He further announced that two additional shipments are scheduled to reach the island during the first half of the year, completing the full donation pledged by Chinese authorities and its people.

    The ceremony featured remarks from Chinese Ambassador to Cuba Hua Xin, who emphasized the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship. Ambassador Hua noted that the cereal donation ‘not only embodies the deep bonds of special friendship between both nations, but also demonstrates the unwavering commitment to remain united even in difficult times,’ highlighting the resilience of Sino-Cuban relations amid global challenges.

    This substantial food aid package arrives as Cuba continues to navigate complex economic circumstances, with the cereal shipment representing both practical support and diplomatic reinforcement of the longstanding partnership between the two socialist nations.

  • Antiguan Referee Shemroy Alie Selected for 2026 CONCACAF Referee Academy

    Antiguan Referee Shemroy Alie Selected for 2026 CONCACAF Referee Academy

    Antigua’s football community celebrates as referee Shemroy Alie embarked on an international journey to Panama on January 17th to participate in the elite 2026 CONCACAF Referee Academy. This selection marks a significant milestone in Alie’s officiating career, positioning him among the region’s most promising match officials.

    The intensive two-week program represents CONCACAF’s commitment to developing world-class refereeing talent through comprehensive on-field training and theoretical sessions. The curriculum is specifically designed to prepare officials for the demanding requirements of both regional and international competitions, with particular focus on upcoming tournaments leading to the 2026 World Cup.

    The Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) publicly commended Alie’s achievement, highlighting this selection as evidence of the nation’s growing influence in regional football governance. ABFA’s statement emphasized that Antiguan officials continue to demonstrate remarkable progress and earn recognition throughout the CONCACAF region.

    Additionally, the association recognized the crucial contributions of Refereeing Department head Kelesha Antoine and technical instructors Darez Dundas and Ishan Philip. Their dedicated work in preparing local officials for advanced regional and international courses has been instrumental in developing Antigua’s refereeing capabilities to meet international standards.

    This achievement reflects both individual excellence and systematic development within Antigua’s football infrastructure, showcasing the Caribbean nation’s commitment to contributing high-quality sports professionals to the global football community.

  • Kelton Dalso selected as UPP St. George caretaker after primary

    Kelton Dalso selected as UPP St. George caretaker after primary

    In a strategic political development, United Progressive Party (UPP) Political Leader Jamale Pringle has officially welcomed attorney Kelton Dalso to his team of Caretakers following a primary election in St. George. The selection process, conducted on Monday, January 19, saw participation from 16 eligible branch members despite the modest electorate size.

    Pringle praised the turnout and engagement, highlighting the community’s commitment to revitalizing the St. George unit. ‘The active involvement of our members demonstrates a collective desire to restore St. George’s prominence within our party structure,’ Pringle noted.

    Dalso, recently called to the Bar of England and Wales, brings a unique blend of legal expertise and local business acumen to the role. Described as a native son of St. George and a seasoned participant in national affairs, his appointment signals the UPP’s commitment to fielding credible candidates. ‘Brother Dalso possesses the dynamism and dedication required not merely to advance our branch but to secure the St. George constituency for the United Progressive Party,’ Pringle asserted.

    The political leader also extended gratitude to fellow aspirants Kem Riley and Jermaine Kentish for their willingness to serve, acknowledging their contribution to a competitive selection process. Additionally, Pringle commended the St. George Branch Executive for administering the primary with professionalism and integrity.

  • Flow Wraps Up a Season of Joy with Major Apple Bundle Giveaway and Community Impact

    Flow Wraps Up a Season of Joy with Major Apple Bundle Giveaway and Community Impact

    Flow has culminated its celebratory ‘Season of Joy’ initiative with a spectacular finale, headlined by a major technology giveaway and a series of impactful community engagements. The campaign, which spanned several weeks, was designed to foster goodwill and directly reward participants during the holiday period.

    The centerpiece of the finale was a high-value Apple product bundle giveaway. The prize package, a highly coveted collection of the tech giant’s latest devices, was awarded to a selection of lucky winners. This grand gesture served as the capstone to a season filled with promotions and smaller-scale giveaways, generating significant consumer excitement and brand engagement across Flow’s digital and physical platforms.

    Beyond the consumer-facing giveaway, Flow emphasized its commitment to corporate social responsibility. The company orchestrated a substantial outreach program, directing resources and support to various community organizations and charitable causes. This dual approach of rewarding customers while strengthening community ties highlights a modern corporate strategy that blends commercial activity with genuine social impact.

    Analysts view this integrated campaign as a strategic masterstroke in brand positioning. In a competitive telecommunications market, such initiatives are crucial for building long-term customer loyalty and enhancing public perception. By aligning festive celebration with technological innovation and community support, Flow successfully demonstrates how corporations can play a positive and integral role in the societies they serve.

  • Antiguan Referee Robert Emmanuel Earns Second-Place Finish at CFU Next Generation Course

    Antiguan Referee Robert Emmanuel Earns Second-Place Finish at CFU Next Generation Course

    The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) has successfully concluded its prestigious Next Generation Referees Training Course in St. Kitts and Nevis, with a formal closing ceremony held at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel. This intensive regional program, organized by the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA), brought together promising football officials from across the Caribbean for comprehensive professional development.

    Under the coordination of Graeme Browne, Head of the SKNFA Referees Department, participants engaged in rigorous classroom sessions, fitness assessments, practical match simulations, and specialized leadership training designed to elevate officiating standards throughout the region.

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Robert Emmanuel emerged as a standout performer, securing second place among male referees while also receiving one of the program’s distinguished Leadership Awards. His compatriot, Teyarni Mourrillon, also successfully completed the training, gaining invaluable regional experience.

    The ceremony recognized multiple high-achieving officials: Guyana’s Sherwin Alli received the Peer Award, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Jody Walters earned the Instructors’ Award, while Trinidad and Tobago’s Shawn Gonsalves and Martinique’s Gladys Namit were named Top Male and Top Female Referees respectively. Jamaica’s Monique Williams claimed second place among female participants.

    This initiative represents CFU’s strategic investment in developing the Caribbean’s next generation of elite football officials. Organizers emphasized that the successful execution of the program underscores SKNFA’s ongoing commitment to advancing referee education and elevating football officiating standards across the Caribbean region.

  • Saint Lucia Jazz Festival to launch on Thursday

    Saint Lucia Jazz Festival to launch on Thursday

    Saint Lucia is poised to generate significant buzz in the cultural events sphere with the official media launch of its 2026 Jazz & Arts Festival scheduled for this Thursday, January 22. The unveiling ceremony will be hosted at the prestigious Sandals Grande Ballroom and broadcast live across multiple social media platforms at 8:00 p.m., featuring a red carpet pre-show and cocktails.

    The highly anticipated announcement will reveal the complete artist roster for the festival, which Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire has enthusiastically previewed as exceptionally promising. While two headline acts—Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Tems and British soul icon Beverley Knight—were previously confirmed during November’s World Travel Market in London, the full scope of performers remains under wraps until the official launch.

    Scheduled from April 30 through May 10, the festival will showcase an eclectic musical spectrum spanning traditional Jazz, R&B, Gospel, World Beats, and Caribbean rhythms. The event’s unique community-based format will offer patrons immersive cultural experiences across various locations, culminating in large-scale performances at the historic Pigeon Island National Landmark.

    Following the Thursday announcement, tickets for the eleven-day celebration will immediately go on sale, offering access to both international performances and locally rooted artistic expressions.

  • First robotic cardiac surgery performed in Cayman Islands expands regional medical options

    First robotic cardiac surgery performed in Cayman Islands expands regional medical options

    Health City Cayman Islands has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in Caribbean healthcare by successfully performing its inaugural robotic-assisted cardiac surgeries. This medical breakthrough positions the Cayman Islands among an elite group of global centers offering fully robotic cardiac interventions, fundamentally transforming advanced heart care accessibility throughout the region.

    The pioneering procedures were conducted under the leadership of Dr. Binoy Chattuparambil, Head of Cardiac Surgery and Clinical Director at Health City. The development follows an intensive training period and strategic clinical partnership with Atlanta’s Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, recognized globally as a premier high-volume robotic cardiac surgery center.

    World-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Douglas Murphy, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, provided expert mentorship throughout the program’s development. With over 4,000 robotic mitral valve surgeries to his credit, Dr. Murphy continues to provide supervisory oversight while Dr. Binoy and the Health City cardiac team perform the actual procedures.

    Robotic cardiac surgery represents a paradigm shift in treatment methodology. Utilizing the advanced da Vinci robotic system, surgeons operate through miniature incisions with enhanced precision instruments, significantly reducing bodily trauma compared to traditional open-heart procedures. This technological approach dramatically improves patient outcomes across multiple metrics.

    “The recovery acceleration represents one of robotic cardiac surgery’s most significant advantages,” Dr. Murphy explained. “Within our Emory program, most patients discharge within 48 hours and resume normal activities within three weeks, compared to the two-to-three month recovery typical of conventional cardiac surgery.”

    The safety profile shows equally remarkable improvements, with robotic mitral valve repair carrying stroke risks often below 0.5% compared to 2-3% for traditional open surgery. Mortality rates remain consistently below 0.5% in high-volume robotic centers, reflecting the reduced trauma and enhanced surgical precision enabled by robotic technology.

    Dr. Binoy characterized this achievement as transformational for Caribbean healthcare: “Performing these advanced procedures locally eliminates the necessity for patients to travel overseas for world-class cardiac care. The combination of reduced recovery time, lower complication rates, and enhanced patient experience represents extraordinary progress for our region.”

    Health City’s robotic cardiac program will expand to include cardiac valve repair/replacement, intracardiac tumor removal, and additional robotic interventions as capabilities develop. This expansion will further reduce hospital stays, accelerate recovery timelines, and improve clinical outcomes within the local healthcare ecosystem.

    This development solidifies Health City Cayman Islands’ status as a center of excellence for advanced heart care while significantly strengthening the national health system’s capabilities. The achievement notably positions the Cayman Islands as the Caribbean’s leader in robotic surgical innovation, marking a new chapter in regional healthcare dating back to 1951 when Cuba established the Caribbean’s first known cardiac surgery centers.