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  • Belize Farmers Get U.S. $4.5M Lifeline

    Belize Farmers Get U.S. $4.5M Lifeline

    In a significant move to strengthen agricultural resilience and economic growth, Belize has entered into a substantial development partnership with Taiwan. On February 9, 2026, a formal agreement was signed, allocating US $4.15 million to establish the “Belize Agricultural Product Processing Innovation and Incubation Project.”

    The signing ceremony featured Belize’s Agriculture Minister, Rodwell Ferguson, and Taiwan’s Ambassador, Lily Li-Wen Hsu. This collaborative initiative, spanning four and a half years, will establish a state-of-the-art Agro-Processing Incubation Centre at Central Farm in the Cayo District. The center’s core mission is to revolutionize post-harvest practices by introducing cutting-edge processing technologies, providing comprehensive entrepreneurial training, and forging robust market linkages for local producers.

    This strategic investment addresses a critical vulnerability in Belize’s economy. While agriculture constitutes approximately 40% of the nation’s exports and has demonstrated a robust 17% growth in value over the past four years, a significant portion of harvests is lost to spoilage due to inadequate processing infrastructure. The new project directly tackles this issue by leveraging Taiwan’s advanced technological expertise in food preservation and value-added production.

    The program aims to empower approximately 200 local farmers, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to launch small-scale agro-processing enterprises. By converting perishable fresh produce into durable goods like dried fruits, juices, preserves, and other shelf-stable products, farmers can significantly reduce post-harvest losses, access higher-value markets, and increase their overall profitability. This partnership continues a long-standing tradition of Taiwanese development support, underscoring its role as a key ally in Belize’s agricultural and economic advancement.

  • Jules Sparks Mondesir’s Big Comeback Win

    Jules Sparks Mondesir’s Big Comeback Win

    Emerging track sensation Hadassah Jules, recently crowned Saint Lucia Athletics Association’s 2025 Juvenile Athlete of the Year, has commenced her 2026 campaign with a spectacular display of athletic prowess. The young prodigy orchestrated a remarkable comeback victory for Mondesir House during the Soufrière Primary School’s annual track meet on February 5th, overtaking defending champions Denis in a thrilling nighttime competition under the stadium lights.

    Entering the track events at a significant disadvantage, Mondesir House languished in fourth position with merely 186 points after the completion of field events and road races. Denis, the 2025 comfortable winners, held a commanding 28-point lead over Alcindor (273 to 245) and appeared poised for another championship victory.

    The transformation began once the track events commenced. Jules, demonstrating the pedigree of her athletic lineage as daughter of former 100m national record holder Jineill Vite, achieved an extraordinary triple victory in the Under-13 category. She dominated the 150m, 300m, and 600m events, securing the victrix ludorum title while building upon her previous success as last year’s inter-district champion in the 150m and 300m events within the Under-11 division.

    Supported by outstanding performances from teammates Keyana Edward and Jayden Jn Baptiste, Mondesir mounted an incredible surge that propelled them to a total of 633 points. This collective effort surpassed Denis at 618 points, a charging Alcindor at 609 points, and Hippolyte who finished fourth for the second consecutive year with 560 points.

    The Under-11 division witnessed a complete Mondesir domination with Edward achieving a sprint triple crown in the girls’ 80m, 150m, and 300m events. Jn Baptiste mirrored this accomplishment on the boys’ side, positioning himself as a strong contender for Under-11 honors at the upcoming inter-district meet scheduled for next month.

    Meanwhile, defending schools Under-11 300m champion Chance Isaac led Hippolyte’s charge with victories in the boys’ 80m, 150m, and 300m events, though ultimately insufficient to overcome Mondesir’s overwhelming track performance.

  • ABOP viert 36 jaar: van binnenlandse verzetsbeweging tot nationale machtsfactor

    ABOP viert 36 jaar: van binnenlandse verzetsbeweging tot nationale machtsfactor

    PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s General Liberation and Development Party (ABOP) commemorated its 36th anniversary on February 11, 2026, celebrating its evolution from a marginalized political movement into one of the nation’s most influential political entities. Founded in the early 1990s to advocate for recognition of inland territories and fundamental rights for underserved communities, ABOP has transformed into a mainstream national party with expanding influence across Suriname.

    The party’s trajectory demonstrates remarkable political resilience. During its formative decade (1991-2000), ABOP fought for parliamentary representation and political breakthrough, achieving a critical milestone in 2015 when it emerged as the country’s third-largest party. This position has since been consolidated through strategic expansion beyond traditional support bases.

    Party leadership now emphatically declares ABOP has transcended its regional origins. ‘We are no longer a single-district party but represent all Surinamese people,’ stated official communications. The 2025 implementation of a national electoral system further accelerated this transformation, generating growing support in key regions including Wanica, Para, and the capital Paramaribo.

    Through participation in successive coalition governments, ABOP has leveraged ministerial positions to drive tangible national development. The party highlights infrastructure achievements including new energy systems and drinking water projects that have delivered reliable electricity and clean water to tens of thousands of citizens. Additional milestones include expanding telecommunications connectivity to previously isolated interior regions through internet and mobile phone services.

    Beyond policy accomplishments, ABOP has cultivated a distinct identity as a socially conscious organization. Under the leadership of Chairman Ronnie Brunswijk, the party has established robust philanthropic initiatives providing direct assistance to citizens in need. These include funding overseas medical treatments, distributing social support packages to vulnerable families, and awarding educational scholarships to students.

    This practical approach to social justice forms the cornerstone of the party’s relationship with its constituents. ‘Politics must be tangible in people’s daily lives’ remains a recurring message within party communications.

    Looking forward, ABOP identifies affordable housing, comprehensive land rights recognition, economic diversification, and enhanced education and healthcare systems as priority policy areas. The core philosophy remains that every Surinamese citizen, regardless of origin or residence, deserves equal opportunities.

    The party’s motto ‘Fu kmopo na a katibo’ (To emerge from captivity) continues to symbolize its ongoing commitment to emancipation and development.

  • Firearm Found in Southern Belize Resort Room

    Firearm Found in Southern Belize Resort Room

    Authorities in southern Belize have launched a comprehensive investigation following the alarming discovery of a loaded firearm in a resort accommodation. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Monday, February 11, 2026, prompting immediate police response.

    According to official reports, resort staff members alerted law enforcement at approximately 1:04 p.m. after uncovering a 9mm Taurus pistol during routine room maintenance. The weapon was found fully equipped with a magazine containing ten live rounds of ammunition, raising significant security concerns for both guests and staff.

    Belize Police Department representatives confirmed the active investigation focuses on determining the origin of the firearm and identifying how it came to be left on the property. The discovery has triggered heightened security assessments at tourism facilities throughout the popular vacation destination.

    Tourism industry representatives have emphasized their cooperation with authorities while maintaining that such incidents remain highly unusual in Belize’s resort communities. The investigation continues as forensic experts work to establish potential ownership and the circumstances surrounding the weapon’s presence in the vacation accommodation.

  • STATEMENT: Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government on end of transitional presidential council in Haiti

    STATEMENT: Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government on end of transitional presidential council in Haiti

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has formally acknowledged Haiti’s political transition following the completion of the Transitional Presidential Council’s two-year mandate. Prime Minister Didier Fils Aimé and the Council of Ministers have now assumed governance responsibilities during what is anticipated to be a brief interim period focused on critical national priorities.

    CARICOM leadership emphasized that this transitional phase will concentrate on three fundamental objectives: enhancing national security conditions, accelerating preparations for democratic elections, and initiating social and economic recovery programs. The regional body stressed that while political stability is urgently needed, any sustainable solution must be fundamentally Haitian-led and reflect the aspirations of all Haitian citizens through inclusive consultation mechanisms.

    The community expressed particular concern about the deteriorating security situation and humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Haitians. CARICOM endorsed Prime Minister Fils Aimé’s immediate priorities, which emphasize the inseparable connection between security and human dignity. His proposed emergency plan focuses on providing essential food supplies, healthcare access, and shelter provisions to the most vulnerable populations.

    CARICOM has committed to ongoing support through its Eminent Persons Group, which will maintain engagement with all Haitian stakeholders. The regional community reaffirmed its commitment to embracing Haiti as a full member state despite current challenges.

    The CARICOM Heads of Government anticipate early discussions with Prime Minister Fils Aimé during the upcoming 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, scheduled for February 24-27, 2026, in St. Kitts and Nevis. This meeting will provide the first formal platform for regional coordination since the new interim administration assumed power.

  • Two Men Injured in Belize City Shooting

    Two Men Injured in Belize City Shooting

    Belize City authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation following a violent shooting incident that resulted in injuries to two local residents on the evening of Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

    According to official police reports, law enforcement personnel were dispatched to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital approximately at 9:00 p.m. following notifications of gunshot victims arriving at the medical facility. The injured individuals were identified as Ryan Thompson, 27, and Deon Gladden, 21, both of whom sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were listed in stable condition by attending physicians.

    Preliminary investigative findings indicate the violent encounter occurred as the victims were traversing the West Canal area. Official statements reveal that both men reported hearing multiple gunshot discharges before subsequently realizing they had been struck by projectiles. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under active investigation, with authorities working to determine motive, identify potential suspects, and establish whether the victims were specifically targeted or caught in crossfire.

    This incident marks another episode in Belize City’s ongoing efforts to address urban violence, with local law enforcement increasing patrols and implementing community engagement strategies to combat criminal activity. The police department has appealed to residents with relevant information to come forward to assist with the investigation, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in resolving such cases and preventing future occurrences.

  • UPDATE: Nicholas Marius captured

    UPDATE: Nicholas Marius captured

    Law enforcement authorities in the Commonwealth of Dominica have successfully apprehended Nicholas Marius, a wanted individual who had been the subject of an extensive search operation. The Dominica Police Force officially confirmed Marius is now in custody following a coordinated effort between law enforcement and community members.

    Police Commissioner Daniel Carbon issued a formal statement expressing profound gratitude for the public’s vigilant cooperation, noting that citizen tips and community awareness played a decisive role in locating the suspect. The successful conclusion of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative security efforts between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

    While specific details regarding the circumstances of the apprehension remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that Marius was taken into custody without incident. The police department emphasized that this arrest represents a significant achievement in their ongoing commitment to public safety and criminal justice.

    The development marks the resolution of a case that had drawn considerable public attention across the Caribbean nation. Law enforcement officials have scheduled a press briefing to provide additional details regarding the charges and legal proceedings that Marius will face.

  • Airlines Cut Flights As Cuba Runs Out of Jet Fuel

    Airlines Cut Flights As Cuba Runs Out of Jet Fuel

    Cuba is confronting an unprecedented aviation crisis as severe jet fuel shortages have compelled major airlines to cancel, delay, or reroute flights to the island nation. The Cuban government has formally notified carriers that it cannot guarantee fuel availability at nine key airports—including Havana’s José Martí International—from February 11 through March 11, 2026.

    The current energy emergency stems from recently intensified U.S. sanctions signed by President Donald Trump in January, which effectively blocked Cuba’s primary oil supply routes from Venezuela and Mexico. These measures have drastically reduced the country’s fuel imports, creating ripple effects across multiple sectors.

    Air Canada has taken drastic measures by suspending all Cuban operations and organizing special repatriation flights for stranded passengers. Multiple other international carriers are implementing contingency plans, including technical stops in neighboring nations like the Dominican Republic and Mexico for refueling purposes.

    This aviation breakdown strikes at the heart of Cuba’s economic stability, as tourism represents one of the island’s most vital revenue sources. The timing proves particularly devastating during peak winter travel season when tourist numbers typically surge.

    Beyond aviation, Cubans face mounting domestic hardships including frequent electricity blackouts, severely constrained public transportation, and stringent fuel rationing. The Associated Press confirms authorities have imposed a 20-liter fuel purchase limit per person while mandating hard currency payments, excluding Cuban pesos from transactions.

    In a humanitarian response, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has authorized a 536-tonne aid shipment to alleviate the worsening crisis, though notably excluding petroleum products from this assistance.

  • Performance order determined for highly-anticipated 2026 Calypso Grand Finals

    Performance order determined for highly-anticipated 2026 Calypso Grand Finals

    Dominica’s vibrant Calypso community is abuzz with anticipation as the island nation prepares for its premier musical showdown. The 2026 Calypso Grand Finals, scheduled for Saturday, February 14th, will showcase the nation’s top vocal talents following the completion of the essential traditional dipping ceremony.

    This crucial pre-competition ritual took place on Tuesday, February 10th at Calypso House, where ten qualifying calypsonians and the judging panel participated in the formal proceedings. According to Dominica Calypso Association Public Relations Officer Peter Letang, this year’s dipping ceremony featured innovative approaches supported by headline sponsors Flow Dominica and Josephine Gabriel and Company Limited.

    The distinguished judging panel comprises Nadine Riviere, Yola Toussaint, Loftus Durand, Susan Alexander, Colin Pellewy, Al Monell, Leona John, and Natasha Henderson, with Julian Benjamin presiding as Chief Judge. Reserve judges Patrick Fontaine and Edward Lawrence will also oversee the competition.

    Heading into the championship event, Abiyah Israel leads the rankings as the top contender, followed by Reds in second position and JD in third. The complete top ten lineup continues with Caressa (4th), Checker (5th), Joy (6th), Tasha P (7th), Daddy Chess (8th), the Bobb (9th), and Nashville completing the roster.

    Organizers are urging Dominican supporters to fill the stadium for the February 14th event commencing at 8:30 AM. Ticket options include general standing ($100), general seating ($150), elevated seating ($250), and VIP party packages ($250). The event promises an electrifying display of musical artistry as these talented performers vie for top honors through their socially conscious lyrics and captivating performances.

  • GCT to be imposed on digital services and intangibles supplied from overseas – Williams

    GCT to be imposed on digital services and intangibles supplied from overseas – Williams

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s government is introducing a landmark tax reform targeting international digital services, projected to generate substantial revenue starting in fiscal year 2026/27. Finance Minister Fayval Williams announced the General Consumption Tax (GCT) expansion during a House of Representatives session, highlighting its role in modernizing the nation’s tax infrastructure.

    The new taxation framework will apply to digital services and intangible products supplied by foreign providers but consumed within Jamaican territory. This strategic move addresses revenue shortfalls exacerbated by Hurricane Melissa while creating a more equitable playing field for domestic businesses competing with overseas digital providers.

    Minister Williams emphasized that the reform aligns with international ‘destination principle’ standards, where taxation occurs based on consumption location rather than supplier jurisdiction. ‘Digital services constitute an expanding segment of household and business consumption patterns,’ Williams stated. ‘The current system creates competitive imbalances as foreign providers without physical presence avoid taxation obligations.’

    The implementation timeline indicates partial revenue collection beginning Q4 2026/27 with full operationalization by calendar year 2027. Initial projections estimate $300 million in first-year revenue, escalating to $4.2 billion in subsequent fiscal periods. This revenue stream will help fund public services and offset hurricane-related economic impacts while ensuring foreign digital providers contribute equitably to Jamaica’s tax base.