Venezuela finds itself at a critical political juncture as opposition leader María Corina Machado outlines potential election timelines while simultaneous mass demonstrations demand the return of detained President Nicolás Maduro. In a recent interview with Politico, Machado revealed that her coalition secured approximately 70% of votes during the contested 2024 election, indicating substantial public and military backing for the opposition movement. She projected that organizing legitimate electoral proceedings with manual voting systems could be accomplished within a nine to ten month timeframe, contingent upon initiation timing. This political development coincides with significant pro-government rallies throughout Caracas, where thousands of Chavista supporters mobilized to demand the liberation of President Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The demonstrations featured impassioned chants of “Venezuela needs Nicolás!” according to Reuters correspondents. Meanwhile, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez asserted that the nation has successfully transformed American pressure into domestic stability, characterizing this as a substantial victory for the Venezuelan populace. Both Maduro and Flores confront narcotics trafficking allegations in New York judicial courts, with each having entered not guilty pleas to the charges.
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Dutch Lady Breakfast for Champs Programme
Springs, St George – South St George Government School became a hub of nutritional education on January 28, 2026, as Hubbard’s Dutch Lady Breakfast for Champs team conducted an innovative educational program for Grade 6 students. The initiative represented a significant corporate investment in youth development and nutritional awareness within Grenada’s educational landscape.
Under the coordination of Hubbard’s Marketing Team and Agency Manager Dillon Johnson, the hour-long session transformed conventional learning into an dynamic interactive experience. Students participated in engaging discussions that highlighted the nutritional benefits of Dutch Lady milk products, with particular emphasis on how proper nutrition supports physical growth, sustained energy levels, and enhanced academic performance.
The program incorporated incentive-based learning where students received Dutch Lady drawstring bags containing branded promotional items and 200 ml Full Cream Milk packs for correctly answering nutritional questions. This approach successfully created an energetic learning environment while effectively communicating essential nutritional information in a memorable format.
As a tangible demonstration of their commitment, Hubbard’s donated 42 cases of Dutch Lady 200 ml Full Cream Milk packs to the school. This contribution aims to promote healthy breakfast habits among students and support their daily educational needs through improved nutrition.
This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of both Dutch Lady and Hubbard’s Agency to foster the well-being and development of Grenada’s youth. Dutch Lady products remain available in retail stores throughout Grenada, with additional information accessible through Hubbard’s Agency social media channels on Facebook and Instagram @hubbardsagency.
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GMC, Northern record wins in Bay Bay Cup
In a dramatic evening of football at the Grande Riviere Playing Field, defending national club champions GMC United and Bay Bay Cup holders Northern United FC both registered their first tournament victories on Wednesday, February 4th.
GMC United, fielding a significantly transformed lineup since their 2025 championship win, dominated their local rivals Dominators FC with a commanding 4-0 victory in the Grande Riviere derby. After a scoreless first half marked by physical play, the match exploded in the 53rd minute when Mekhi Stanislaus broke the deadlock. The momentum continued just sixty seconds later as Under-16 striker Shaquil Martelly—the smallest player on the pitch—delivered an spectacular long-range strike that electrified the crowd. Tonius Simon sealed the comprehensive win with two additional goals within a five-minute span.
Head coach Daren Gaspard acknowledged the challenging first half: “We started a bit slow in the first half, [and] Dominators were a bit physical, due respect to them, we played on their home ground.” He credited the team’s second-half transformation to tactical adjustments made during halftime: “We went in with a plan for the second half, and we executed properly. You could see the changes had an impact on the game.”
The victory carries emotional significance for GMC United, who have persevered through the tragic losses of players Sherman Augustin and Ajani Lebourne in 2025, along with several transfers that necessitated relying on younger talent like Martelly and goalkeeper Jahim Henry. New acquisitions including Trevon St Prix have provided much-needed stability as the team prepares for a crucial Sunday showdown against group leaders New Generation FC.
Meanwhile, Northern United FC kept their semifinal hopes alive with an emphatic 7-1 rout of Gros Islet Veterans. The team established a formidable 4-0 halftime advantage through a brace from Lyndon Constantine complemented by goals from Devonte Herman and Nicholas Lawrence. Although veteran international striker Earl ‘Ball Hog’ Jean converted a penalty for the Vets after the break, Northern United responded with three additional goals from Kenrick Antoine, Thierry Morille, and Samiel Louisien to secure second place in Group B on goal difference.
The tournament continues on Sunday, February 8th at Francis Baba Lastic Grounds with critical matchups featuring Northern United against Police at 5pm, followed by the highly anticipated clash between GMC United and New Generation FC at 7pm.
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Is the Tourism Industry Beginning to “Stabilise”?
The Central American nation of Belize has achieved a significant milestone in its tourism recovery, with official data for 2025 confirming sustained growth across both overnight stays and cruise passenger arrivals. According to statistics released by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), the country welcomed 551,698 overnight visitors during the year, representing a modest yet meaningful 0.8% increase over 2024 figures.
This incremental growth signals more than mere recovery, with BTB officials characterizing the performance as evidence of market stabilization at elevated post-pandemic levels. Notably, overnight arrivals have now surpassed pre-COVID benchmarks, standing approximately 10% higher than comparable 2019 statistics, indicating the sector has transitioned into a new phase of expansion.
The cruise segment demonstrated particularly vigorous performance, with 967,214 passengers arriving in Belizean ports throughout 2025—an impressive 8% year-over-year increase. While still trailing the record-breaking 1 million passengers recorded in 2019, the numbers represent a remarkable recovery from the pandemic low of 210,214 recorded in 2021.
BTB leadership attributes this success to coordinated efforts across Belize’s tourism ecosystem, emphasizing that strategic investments in infrastructure and visitor experiences have been instrumental in maintaining growth momentum. The data suggests Belize is successfully consolidating its position as a preferred Central American destination while building resilience against market fluctuations.
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Trump Says Phone Call With China’s President Was “Excellent”
In a significant diplomatic engagement, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted a comprehensive telephone conversation on Wednesday addressing multiple critical bilateral and global issues. The discussion encompassed trade relations, the Taiwan question, several international conflicts, and other matters of mutual concern.
President Trump characterized the exchange as ‘excellent’ through his Truth Social platform, simultaneously confirming his anticipated state visit to China. He expressed particular enthusiasm for this forthcoming trip, emphasizing the strength of both the bilateral relationship and his personal rapport with President Xi.
The dialogue yielded tangible progress on agricultural trade, with Trump revealing China’s consideration of purchasing approximately 20 million tonnes of U.S. soybeans during the current season, accompanied by intentions for expanded commitments in subsequent years. Negotiations extended to energy sector cooperation involving oil and gas purchases, alongside discussions regarding aircraft engine deliveries.
The leaders also addressed pressing international security matters, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and issues concerning Iran. Meanwhile, Chinese state media coverage highlighted President Xi’s emphasis on Taiwan as the ‘most important issue’ in Sino-American relations, urging prudent American consideration regarding arms sales to the island.
This diplomatic exchange occurs against the backdrop of Washington’s recent approval of an $11 billion arms package to Taiwan in December 2025—a decision that drew substantial criticism from Beijing. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te subsequently affirmed the continued strength of Taipei-Washington relations, describing cooperation as ‘rock solid’ during press remarks following the Trump-Xi discussion.
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CARICOM IMPACS program equips local law enforcement officers to develop digital training material
In a significant capacity-building initiative, eighteen specialized officers from Dominica’s law enforcement sectors have successfully concluded an intensive training program on digital content creation for security education. The week-long workshop, conducted from January 19-23, 2026, was administered by the Caribbean Community Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS) with strategic partnership from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
The comprehensive curriculum equipped personnel from the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, Immigration Department, and Customs Division with advanced technical skills to develop sophisticated digital training materials. This initiative represents a crucial advancement in establishing standardized, sustainable, and modernized learning frameworks for security agencies throughout the Caribbean region.
This training session marked the conclusive phase of the English-speaking Caribbean implementation, following similar programs across twelve CARICOM Member States. The project now prepares to expand to Spanish-speaking partner institutions in the Dominican Republic scheduled for February 2026, demonstrating the program’s continuing regional development.
According to official statements, CARICOM IMPACS remains committed to broadening capacity-building support, with plans to extend these specialized training opportunities to additional Member and Associate States through future initiatives. This multinational cooperation underscores the growing importance of digital proficiency and standardized training protocols in contemporary law enforcement practices throughout the Caribbean basin.
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Bad Dawg marks 14 years as street-food brand expands vendor network and retail presence
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Celebrating its 14th anniversary, Jamaican street-food phenomenon Bad Dawg is executing a dual expansion strategy that simultaneously grows its mobile vendor network while establishing a formal retail presence across the island nation.
The brand, originally launched as a job-creation initiative by CB Group, has evolved from its humble sausage cart beginnings into a multifaceted food enterprise. What began as a program to empower small entrepreneurs with low startup costs has matured into a hybrid business model featuring over 18 independent vendors operating islandwide, consistent presence at major public events, and supermarket distribution channels.
Alicia Bogues, CB Group’s Head of Regional Development, explained the brand’s foundational philosophy: “Bad Dawg was intentionally designed as an entrepreneurial opportunity platform, enabling individuals to become their own bosses with minimal initial investment.” This approach has not only created employment but also cultivated a devoted customer base that associates the brand with Jamaica’s vibrant social gatherings and cultural events.
The brand’s product innovation has kept pace with its operational expansion. While maintaining its signature sausage offerings, Bad Dawg has introduced streaky bacon to its portfolio, strategically broadening its culinary applications across different meal occasions.
The vendor success story of Alicia Newman and her husband exemplifies the brand’s impact. Starting with one cart three years ago as supplementary income alongside their full-time jobs, the couple now operates two carts, employs six people, and plans to launch a third unit—demonstrating the scalability of the Bad Dawg model.
Moiya Chin-Lyn, Channel Manager for Retail Experience at CB Foods, highlighted the strategic thinking behind the retail expansion: “Our move into formal retail channels allows consumers to enjoy our distinctive flavors at home while preserving the authentic street culture that established our brand identity.”
This fourteen-year journey reflects the ongoing commercialization of Jamaica’s informal food sector, with Bad Dawg successfully bridging the gap between traditional street vending and modern retail distribution without compromising its original community-oriented values.
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Death toll rises to two in Colombia mine blast
A devastating explosion at an unauthorized coal mine in Guacheta, Colombia, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of two workers, with four others presumed deceased as rescue operations continue. The tragedy occurred on Thursday in the Cundinamarca department, a region encircling the nation’s capital, Bogotá.
Forensic specialists from the attorney general’s office, supported by police and firefighter units, successfully recovered the two victims’ bodies on stretchers. The rescue mission, observed by AFP correspondents, unfolded at the mine entrance set within a dense pine forest, where anxious family members gathered wrapped in ponchos against the cold.
The psychological impact on the mining community was immediate and profound. Duvan Cardenas, a 24-year-old miner, expressed his trauma to AFP, stating, ‘Starting tomorrow, I’m not working in mining anymore… I’ve decided to quit and dedicate myself to another profession.’
Rescue endeavors persisted through the afternoon with teams deploying ventilation apparatus to mitigate dangerous gas accumulations within the shaft. Governor Jorge Emilio Rey had earlier indicated to Radio Blu that the four missing individuals are likely deceased due to oxygen deprivation. High concentrations of methane gas significantly hampered initial rescue attempts, according to officials.
Alveiro Aguillon, a fire department official, confirmed to AFP that crews ‘worked all night’ in desperate efforts to reach the trapped miners. Governor Rey further revealed that the mine had previously been issued official ‘closure orders’ by regulatory authorities but continued its operations without valid permits. This incident underscores the persistent dangers associated with Colombia’s frequent and often fatal mining accidents, particularly prevalent in illegal and artisanal mining sites.
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Cuba adopts urgent measures to address energy crisis
HAVANA, Cuba—Confronting a severe energy shortage exacerbated by intensified US sanctions, the Cuban government has unveiled a sweeping package of emergency measures designed to conserve dwindling fuel reserves. The drastic steps include mandating a four-day work week for all state-owned enterprises, imposing stringent restrictions on fuel sales, and scaling back inter-provincial transportation services.
Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Perez-Oliva Fraga, addressing the nation via state television, attributed the crisis directly to Washington’s policies. He outlined the government’s strategy to prioritize essential services and critical economic operations while maintaining national development objectives. ‘Our primary focus is to safeguard the vitality of our nation and ensure the continuity of fundamental services for our population,’ Fraga stated, emphasizing that available fuel would be allocated to protect indispensable activities.
The comprehensive contingency plan extends beyond the public sector. Educational institutions will operate on reduced schedules, with universities decreasing mandatory in-person attendance. The tourism industry, a vital source of foreign currency, will see selective closures of establishments. These conservation efforts aim to redirect scarce resources toward sustaining food production, maintaining electricity generation, and preserving foreign exchange-earning sectors.
This energy emergency unfolds against the backdrop of a six-year economic crisis in the Caribbean nation of 9.6 million people, which has labored under a comprehensive US economic embargo since 1962. Recent weeks have witnessed escalating pressure from Washington, including the cessation of oil deliveries from Venezuela—Havana’s key regional ally—following the US rejection of President Nicolas Maduro’s administration.
Further compounding the crisis, President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order authorizing tariffs against nations supplying oil to Cuba. This move effectively terminated Mexico’s oil exports to the island, which had commenced in 2023, under threat of US trade penalties. The resulting petroleum deficits have brought Cuba’s power generation infrastructure to the brink of collapse, with electrical plants struggling to maintain basic service.
The historical tensions between the two nations have reached new heights, with Cuban officials accusing the Trump administration of attempting to ‘strangle’ the island’s economy. While power outages and fuel shortages have been recurrent challenges in recent years, current conditions have deteriorated dramatically. Despite the escalating crisis, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has expressed willingness to engage in diplomatic dialogue with the United States, but only under conditions of mutual respect and without external pressure on Cuba’s sovereign governance.
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Holmwood Tech end Herbert Morrison win record in U19 basketball
In a stunning reversal of fortunes during Friday’s rescheduled ISSA Rural Area boys’ basketball quarterfinals, Holmwood Technical engineered a remarkable comeback to defeat previously undefeated Herbert Morrison Technical 64-46 in Montego Bay. The Under-19 matchup saw Holmwood overcome a significant deficit with an explosive final-quarter performance that completely shifted the game’s momentum.
The contest began favorably for Herbert Morrison, the former national Under-19 champions, who established an early 14-11 lead after the opening quarter. Though Holmwood narrowed the gap to just two points (29-27) by halftime, Herbert Morrison maintained their advantage heading into the final period with a 42-39 lead.
The game’s dramatic turning point arrived in the fourth quarter when Holmwood unleashed a devastating 25-4 scoring run that left their opponents reeling. Melvin Ragoo emerged as the standout performer, delivering a game-high 26 points that propelled his team to victory. Denrick Jenkins provided crucial support with 17 points, creating an formidable offensive combination that Herbert Morrison ultimately couldn’t contain.
Despite the Under-19 team’s disappointing loss, Herbert Morrison found redemption in the Under-16 division where they secured a hard-fought 67-60 victory against Knox College. This game resumed after being previously interrupted with Herbert Morrison holding a narrow 43-40 lead in the final minute. Shamar Russell dominated the court with an impressive 23-point performance complemented by nine rebounds and three blocked shots, while Michael Johnson contributed 10 points and six rebounds.
The results highlight the competitive intensity of Jamaica’s school basketball championships, demonstrating how quickly momentum can shift in high-stakes playoff basketball.