Carib Scope

博客

  • Nine proposals submitted to build cooking gas bottling plant

    Nine proposals submitted to build cooking gas bottling plant

    Guyana’s energy sector is witnessing significant international investment interest as nine competitive proposals have been submitted for the construction of a major cooking gas bottling plant. The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) confirmed the submissions from a diverse consortium of local and international energy companies.

    The bidding consortium includes Guygas, which has formed strategic partnerships with Denmark’s Makeen Energy and India’s RAMCO Industries. Other prominent contenders include Massy Gas Products, SOL Guyana Inc, and RUBIS Guyana Inc. International participation extends to Houston-based LINDSAYCA, currently engaged in constructing the 300-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant and NGL facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

    Additional joint venture proposals have been submitted by Divyan International Inc, along with a collaborative effort between Gate Ventures and Consulting Guyana Inc with Canada’s Propak Systems Limited and Makeen Energy. Further international interest comes from Colombia’s Gas Zipa SASESP partnering with Fix It Depot and Standard Energy Company, and India’s ILF Consulting Engineering Inc. collaborating with Mahatma Phule Renewable and Infrastructure Technology Limited.

    Winston Brassington, Project Lead for the Gas-to-Energy Project, revealed during the Guyana Energy Conference that the proposed facility is projected to bottle approximately 63 million gallons of cooking fuel annually, representing a substantial advancement in the country’s energy infrastructure development.

  • Airport Authority unveils new and expanded Ground Transportation hub at Terminal B

    Airport Authority unveils new and expanded Ground Transportation hub at Terminal B

    Antigua and Barbuda has inaugurated a comprehensively redeveloped ground transportation complex at VC Bird International Airport, marking a significant infrastructure enhancement for the Caribbean nation’s tourism sector. The transformed facility, formerly known as the old terminal and now designated Terminal B, officially opened Thursday with ceremonial remarks from Permanent Secretary Sean Cenac of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.

    The newly operational hub centralizes previously fragmented services, housing four major car rental agencies—Bigs Car Rental, TG Car Rental, RL Car Rental, and Chase Car Rental—collectively offering a fleet of 315 vehicles. Additionally, nine tour operators and destination management companies now operate from the consolidated space, eliminating previous terminal congestion and improving operational efficiency.

    Cenac, representing Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, emphasized the strategic importance of the project, stating that tourism remains the primary economic driver for the nation, supporting employment, entrepreneurship, and foreign exchange earnings. He characterized the investment as critical to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s competitive position in the Caribbean tourism market.

    The upgraded facility incorporates modern amenities including a live flight information display system for real-time arrival monitoring and an extended public address system already operational in the main terminal. ABAA Interim CEO Miguel Southwell detailed the operational improvements, noting the transformation addresses long-standing challenges of scattered services and passenger congestion.

    Shakkia Carlos of TG Car Rental, speaking on behalf of rental operators, described the development as emblematic of ‘continued growth, collaboration, and commitment to excellence.’ The project was executed under the direction of ABAA Board Chairman Rolston Potter, with co-project management by Business Development Manager Geneva George. Director of Operations Joseph Samuel and Maintenance Manager Orlan Hurst led the construction team, supported by the Authority’s IT and Accounts departments.

  • Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investments

    Coye Appointed Special Envoy for Finance and Investments

    The Government of Belize has formally designated Christopher Coye as the nation’s Special Envoy for Finance and Investments through an official proclamation in the Belize Gazette. This strategic appointment, formally executed by Governor-General Froyla Tzalam on February 9, 2026, carries retroactive effect from January 1st and establishes a four-year mandate.

    The appointment confers upon Coye full authority to represent Belize’s governmental interests in all financial and investment-related matters. The published instrument specifically directs all relevant authorities to provide comprehensive operational support and grant necessary privileges to facilitate his duties. Coye will operate under the jurisdictional umbrella of the Ministry of Finance, Investment, Economic Transformation, Civil Aviation and E-Governance.

    This development follows Coye’s September 2025 resignation from his position as Minister of State within the Finance Ministry. His departure from the cabinet occurred merely seven months after rejoining Prime Minister Briceño’s administration following the People’s United Party’s decisive electoral victory. Despite stepping down from executive responsibilities, Coye maintained his legislative role as a government senator while returning to private professional practice prior to this new diplomatic assignment.

  • Family Mourns 38-Year-Old Killed in Big Creek Road Accident

    Family Mourns 38-Year-Old Killed in Big Creek Road Accident

    The Stann Creek District is reeling from a tragic vehicular incident that resulted in the death of 38-year-old Brandon Alex Coleman on Thursday afternoon. According to preliminary police reports, the fatal collision occurred on Big Creek Road when a Ford Explorer, operated by 65-year-old Jes Christian Bech of Monkey River Road, allegedly turned directly into the path of Coleman’s motorcycle.

    Emergency responders transported Coleman to the Independence Polyclinic before transferring him to the Southern Regional Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have detained Bech as investigations into the precise circumstances surrounding the accident continue.

    The Coleman family is experiencing profound grief following the sudden loss. Angelina Coleman, the victim’s younger sister, recounted receiving the devastating news while at work. “He had just dropped off a relative at work and was returning home,” she shared emotionally. “This pain is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in my life.”

    Family members revealed that Coleman had been actively working on his younger brother’s house, with plans to complete the project so his sibling could move into his own home. “All his plans were abruptly cut short,” Angelina noted, adding that Coleman leaves behind a daughter he “loved immensely.”

    The family has expressed additional distress over what they describe as insufficient communication from investigating authorities. “As of now, no police officials have visited our residence or provided any formal notification to the family,” Angelina stated.

    Those who knew Coleman remembered him as a perpetually positive influence. “My brother was not a problem-maker—he was the sweetest person,” his sister reflected. “He consistently brought smiles to everyone around him and maintained a happy mindset, always striving to ensure the happiness of those in his presence.”

  • Flow Announces Second Winner in “Riddim & Rewards” Promotion

    Flow Announces Second Winner in “Riddim & Rewards” Promotion

    Telecommunications provider Flow has unveiled the second grand prize recipient in its ongoing ‘Riddim & Rewards’ customer appreciation campaign. The promotion, designed to reward subscriber loyalty with a taste of Caribbean musical culture, has successfully generated its latest victor.

    The initiative seamlessly blends digital connectivity with regional entertainment, offering participants not just a chance at lucrative prizes but also an immersive cultural experience. This strategic marketing effort underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing customer engagement beyond conventional service provision.

    The ‘Riddim & Rewards’ program operates on an entry mechanism accessible to Flow’s existing client base, creating an added-value proposition for subscribers. The campaign’s structure demonstrates how telecom operators are increasingly leveraging culturally resonant promotions to strengthen brand affinity and customer retention in competitive markets.

    Industry analysts observe that such promotions represent a growing trend where service providers integrate local cultural elements into customer reward programs. This approach effectively differentiates brands while celebrating regional heritage through corporate initiatives.

    The announcement of this second winner maintains momentum for the ongoing promotion, with anticipation building for subsequent prize distributions. Flow has indicated continued commitment to the program through its scheduled duration, suggesting additional opportunities for subscriber participation and reward acquisition.

  • Venezuela verleent amnestie, honderden politieke gevangenen kunnen vrijkomen

    Venezuela verleent amnestie, honderden politieke gevangenen kunnen vrijkomen

    In a significant policy reversal, Venezuela’s acting president has enacted sweeping amnesty legislation that could result in the release of hundreds of politicians, activists, and legal professionals detained for political reasons. This move represents an implicit acknowledgment of what the government had denied for decades: the existence of political prisoners within its penal system.

    The newly signed law, ratified on Thursday, effectively overturns years of official denial and marks another strategic shift by the administration following the January 3rd military incursion by American forces in Caracas and the subsequent abduction of President Nicolás Maduro.

    Under the provisions of this legislation, opposition figures, human rights defenders, journalists, and other individuals targeted by the ruling party over the past 27 years may qualify for release. However, families awaiting the freedom of their relatives express skepticism, noting that Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has previously failed to fulfill promises regarding prisoner releases. Many have maintained vigil outside detention centers for weeks.

    According to the Venezuelan Prison Rights Organization Foro Penal, 448 releases have been documented since January 8, though estimates suggest over 600 individuals remain detained for political reasons.

    The amnesty law covers involvement in political protests and “violent actions” occurring during the brief 2002 coup attempt, as well as during demonstrations or electoral processes during specific months dating back to 2004. While the legislation doesn’t explicitly specify which offenses qualify, earlier drafts included incitement to illegal activities, resistance to authorities, rebellion, and treason.

    Notably excluded are those convicted of “military rebellion” for their involvement in 2019 events. The law also doesn’t provide for property restitution, reverse suspensions from public office imposed for political reasons, or lift sanctions against media outlets.

    The opposition remains divided on the legislation. Nora Bracho, an opposition politician, described it during parliamentary debates as “imperfect but undoubtedly a major step forward for reconciliation in Venezuela.” Conversely, Pedro Urruchurtu, international relations director for opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado, criticized the measure as “not just invalid and unlawful, but a trap to buy time and re-victimize the persecuted.”

    Since Maduro’s abduction, U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Rodríguez while downplaying potential support for opposition forces. Rodríguez has made several concessions to the U.S., including halting oil deliveries to Cuba and supporting legislation to open the state oil industry to foreign companies. The United States has indicated it will monitor revenues from Venezuelan oil sales until a “representative government” is established.

  • Carnival Band Leaders Demand New Leadership Citing “Disrespect”

    Carnival Band Leaders Demand New Leadership Citing “Disrespect”

    In an unprecedented show of unity, Belize’s carnival band leaders have publicly denounced the Belize Carnival Association (BCA), accusing it of systemic mismanagement and chronic disrespect. During a charged press conference on February 20, 2026, representatives from major bands including Titans Mass Band, Belizean Jewels, and Soca Moca presented a comprehensive list of grievances that have been mounting for years.

    The core allegations center on a severe lack of financial transparency and accountability. Band leaders revealed that prize money distribution remains opaque, with winners receiving undifferentiated checks that provide no breakdown for specific competition categories like King, Queen, or Road March. Remarkably, the total prize pool has stagnated at $10,000 for nearly thirty years, despite individual bands now investing over $100,000 annually in their productions.

    Non-competing bands highlighted their particular marginalization, noting they pay substantial participation fees yet receive minimal support in security, logistical guidance, or recognition of their contributions to the festival’s success. ‘We deploy three to four trucks and make significant investments that fundamentally shape the carnival experience,’ one leader stated. ‘Yet our right to understand the distinction between competing and non-competing status remains ignored.’

    The criticism extends beyond financial matters to encompass fundamental governance failures. Multiple leaders reported never participating in association elections despite years of involvement, with one representative noting active participation since 2016 without ever casting a vote. Others described arbitrary disqualifications, broken promises regarding prizes, and consistently poor communication from association leadership.

    In a significant escalation, the coalition disclosed they have sought legal counsel and drafted a formal letter declaring no confidence in the current BCA leadership. This demand for new representation was reportedly dismissed as invalid by the association. The press conference concluded with a unified call for the entire committee to step aside, making way for leadership that can restore transparency, respect, and proper governance to Belize’s premier cultural celebration.

    News 5 has initiated contact with the Belize Carnival Association seeking their official response to these allegations.

  • Wales power plant to generate at full capacity next year; plans moving apace for “explosive growth” in electricity demand

    Wales power plant to generate at full capacity next year; plans moving apace for “explosive growth” in electricity demand

    Guyana is rapidly advancing its energy infrastructure development to accommodate unprecedented growth in electricity consumption, with officials outlining ambitious plans at the recent Guyana Energy Conference. The 300-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant at Wales is projected to achieve full operational capacity by mid-2026, according to Ministry of Natural Resources Consultant Winston Brassington. The facility, currently under construction by Texas-based contractor LINDSAYCA, is expected to initially generate 228 megawatts through its four simple cycle gas turbines before reaching maximum output with combined cycle completion. This development coincides with Guyana’s significant grid modernization effort, transitioning from 69 kV to 230 kV transmission systems to handle what officials describe as ‘explosive growth’ in electricity demand. The new transmission infrastructure already extends from Wales to Eccles, with additional substations and control centers scheduled for completion by May. Guyana Power and Light CEO Kesh Nandlall revealed that electricity consumption has surged by 65% over five years, from 903 gigawatt hours in 2020 to 1,485 gigawatt hours in 2025. Current peak demand reaches 221.5 megawatts against available reliable capacity of 260 megawatts. With projections indicating demand could reach 1,650 megawatts by 2030—requiring a 600% capacity increase—authorities are already planning a second gas-to-energy plant at Wales. Five firms have been prequalified for this expansion, which will include urea fertilizer production and glass manufacturing facilities.

  • Prime Minister Friday to attend 50th CARICOM Summit in St. Kitts

    Prime Minister Friday to attend 50th CARICOM Summit in St. Kitts

    Vincentian Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday is scheduled to undertake a significant diplomatic mission to St. Kitts and Nevis next week, where he will participate in the historic 50th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference. The high-level gathering, scheduled from February 24-27, 2026, represents a milestone moment for regional cooperation and governance in the Caribbean basin.

    The upcoming summit will be convened under the distinguished chairmanship of St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who will host fellow regional leaders at this quadrennial event. The conference agenda is expected to address pressing regional concerns including climate resilience, economic integration, security cooperation, and sustainable development initiatives unique to Caribbean nations.

    In preliminary statements, Prime Minister Friday emphasized the critical importance of this diplomatic engagement, noting that the summit provides an essential platform for collaborative problem-solving among member states. ‘I anticipate substantive dialogues with my regional counterparts on matters of mutual importance to CARICOM’s continued development and prosperity,’ Friday stated, highlighting the conference’s role in shaping the region’s strategic direction.

    The 50th anniversary summit marks a significant evolution in CARICOM’s institutional development since its establishment in 1973, representing one of the developing world’s most enduring regional integration movements. This gathering occurs amid global economic uncertainties and evolving geopolitical dynamics that particularly affect small island developing states.

  • Flow Upgrades Mobile Network at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre

    Flow Upgrades Mobile Network at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre

    In a significant technological advancement for Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare sector, telecommunications provider Flow has successfully implemented a comprehensive mobile network enhancement at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The upgrade, finalized on February 19th, 2026, substantially improves indoor connectivity throughout the medical facility, directly supporting critical clinical operations while enhancing communication capabilities for medical staff, patients, and visitors alike.

    Executed through Liberty Business, the enterprise division of Liberty Caribbean, this infrastructure project introduces business-grade technology to one of the nation’s most vital institutions. The initiative underscores Flow’s expanding role in reinforcing essential national infrastructure through digital transformation.

    A formal commissioning ceremony gathered key stakeholders including representatives from the Ministry of Health, hospital administration, and Flow’s project team. Demonstrating additional corporate support, the Liberty Caribbean Foundation contributed US$5,000 to assist with patient care and facility requirements, recognizing the hospital’s ongoing service to the community.

    Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State within the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation and the Environment, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment: ‘This significant contribution by Flow and Liberty Caribbean highlights the indispensable role of modern technology in fortifying our healthcare infrastructure. The enhanced IT capabilities at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre will improve operational efficiency, provide healthcare professionals with essential tools, and ultimately elevate patient care standards.’

    Shelton Flash, Director of B2B for Liberty Caribbean’s North Caribbean region, addressed the operational necessity of reliable connectivity: ‘In healthcare environments, robust indoor connectivity has transitioned from convenience to operational imperative. This upgrade facilitates clinical coordination, enables timely decision-making, and improves experiences for all hospital users.’

    Wayne Hull, Country Manager for Flow Antigua and Barbuda, expressed national pride in the project: ‘We take immense pride in delivering this infrastructure enhancement for our nation. By strengthening connectivity at SLBMC, we support the systems enabling quality healthcare, improve coordination, enhance patient care, and ensure medical teams have reliable tools to perform optimally.’

    Beyond immediate operational improvements, this network upgrade exemplifies Flow’s enduring commitment to social responsibility, collaborative partnership, and community service. The project represents a concrete step toward establishing safer, better-connected healthcare infrastructure throughout Antigua and Barbuda.