Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Minor Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    Minor Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    A minor seismic event measuring 3.8 on the Richter scale was detected north of Antigua and Barbuda late Friday evening, as confirmed by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre. The tremor occurred at 8:50 p.m. local time (00:50 UTC) on March 20th, with its epicenter positioned approximately 247 kilometers north-northwest of St. John’s, Antigua.

    According to preliminary data, the earthquake originated at a depth of 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, with coordinates placing it at latitude 19.22 north and longitude 62.56 west. The seismic activity was also recorded 214 kilometers north of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, and 272 kilometers north of Brades, Montserrat.

    Notably, the tremor appears to have gone unfelt across the region, with no immediate reports of ground shaking or structural damage. The Seismic Research Centre emphasized that their initial calculations were generated through automated computer algorithms, with the precise location subject to potential revision upon further scientific analysis. The event serves as a routine geological occurrence in the seismically active Caribbean region.

  • No Tsunami Threat to Antigua After 6.9 Magnitude Mid-Atlantic Earthquake

    No Tsunami Threat to Antigua After 6.9 Magnitude Mid-Atlantic Earthquake

    The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service released an official Tsunami Information Statement at 8:45 am AST on Saturday, March 21, 2026, addressing recent seismic activity in the Atlantic region. According to the bulletin, a significant earthquake measuring 6.9 magnitude struck the Northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge at approximately 8:17 am local time. The seismic event originated at a depth of 1 kilometer (0.6 miles), with epicentral coordinates placed at 23.8° North and 45.8° West—approximately 1,818 kilometers (1,130 miles) northeast of Antigua.

    Following comprehensive analysis of available seismic data, the Tsunami Warning Centre confirmed no substantial tsunami threat exists for Antigua and Barbuda. However, meteorological authorities acknowledged minimal possibility of minor tsunami waves affecting Atlantic coastal areas nearest to the earthquake’s epicenter.

    The national meteorological service emphasized that no immediate action is required for residents or visitors. Officials simultaneously recommended maintaining awareness through official communication channels and using the opportunity to review emergency preparedness protocols. Coastal residents were particularly advised to reaffirm their knowledge of evacuation routes and designated safety zones despite the absence of immediate danger.

    The service indicated this would constitute the sole advisory regarding this seismic event unless subsequent data necessitates further updates. The meteorological department encourages continued monitoring of their official broadcasts for any developments.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Claims Third Place at OECS Robotics Challenge

    Antigua and Barbuda Claims Third Place at OECS Robotics Challenge

    In a landmark achievement for technological education, Antigua and Barbuda has secured a podium finish at the premier OECS Super Regional Robotics Challenge 2026. The historic event, hosted in St. Kitts, united young innovators from across the Caribbean basin under the ambitious theme of “Innovating for a Sustainable Caribbean Future.

    The national delegation, comprising students Micah Matthew and Michael Harvey under the guidance of coach Tijah Myers, marked the country’s inaugural participation in this regional showcase of technological prowess. The competition was orchestrated by the Eastern Caribbean Robotics and Innovation Association in collaboration with the St. Kitts and Nevis Robotics Association.

    Throughout the intensive five-day championship, eight participating territories engaged in complex robotic challenges centered on environmental sustainability. Competitors programmed autonomous robots to execute critical tasks including sargassum seaweed collection, coastal debris removal, recycling operations, and precision navigation through challenging simulated environments.

    Antigua and Barbuda demonstrated remarkable technical capability during the preliminary rounds, advancing decisively to the semi-final stage. Though subsequently defeated by the eventual champions from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the team showcased impressive resilience by bouncing back to secure third place overall with a conclusive victory over St. Lucia.

    The championship finals culminated in St. Vincent and the Grenadines claiming the inaugural title following their triumph against St. Maarten.

    During the closing ceremonies, Dr. Ricard O’Neill, a prominent regional robotics advocate, addressed the participants, emphasizing that the event represents merely the genesis of an expanding technological movement. Official confirmations indicate planning is already actively underway for the second edition of the competition scheduled for 2027.

  • ABLP Sets April 12 Convention

    ABLP Sets April 12 Convention

    The political landscape in Antigua and Barbuda is poised for significant activity as the ruling Labour Party announces its national convention scheduled for April 12th. This gathering represents a crucial strategic maneuver that will formally confirm parliamentary candidates across constituencies, including Dr. Philmore Benjamin for St. Mary’s North and Kendra Beazer representing Barbuda.

    Political analysts interpret this convention as more than mere procedural formality, with multiple sources indicating it may serve as the launching platform for an imminent general election. The timing suggests potential early polling that could follow shortly after the party’s consolidation of its candidate roster.

    The governing party enters this political phase bolstered by its recent decisive by-election triumph in St. Philip North, a victory that has substantially reinforced perceptions of the party’s organizational capabilities and grassroots support. This electoral success has provided considerable momentum as the party transitions into campaign preparedness mode.

    The upcoming convention is expected to serve dual purposes: finalizing the electoral lineup while simultaneously energizing the party’s base through strategic messaging and rallying efforts. This coordinated approach demonstrates the Labour Party’s methodical preparation for potential political contests ahead, suggesting sophisticated election readiness despite the absence of an officially declared election timeline.

  • ABLP Selects Benjamin for St Mary’s North, Beazer to Contest Barbuda Seat

    ABLP Selects Benjamin for St Mary’s North, Beazer to Contest Barbuda Seat

    In a significant political realignment, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has announced dramatic candidate changes for two crucial constituencies. The party has selected physician Dr. Philmore Benjamin to contest the St Mary’s North seat, replacing veteran parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph. Simultaneously, environmental advocate Kendra Beazer has been nominated as the ABLP’s candidate for Barbuda.

    The political reshuffling comes amid mounting speculation about an impending snap general election, with both appointments scheduled for formal ratification at the party’s delegates convention on April 12th. Dr. Benjamin, who defected from the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) last year, currently serves as a medical consultant to community clinics. His selection represents a strategic infusion of professional expertise into the ABLP’s electoral roster.

    Ms. Beazer, a former Barbuda Council member who previously represented the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM), will now challenge long-serving MP Trevor Walker. This nomination marks a bold attempt to reclaim a seat the ABLP has not held since 2017. The BPM has maintained political dominance in Barbuda, demonstrated by their comprehensive victory in the recent 2025 Barbuda Council elections.

    Political analysts interpret these candidate changes as a calculated repositioning strategy by the ruling party. The selection of both figures—each with cross-party appeal and established community credentials—suggests the ABLP is pursuing a broader coalition-building approach ahead of potential electoral contests. The moves also indicate potential internal restructuring within the party’s leadership hierarchy as it prepares for possible political challenges.

  • ECAB to Close Jolly Harbour ATM from March 26

    ECAB to Close Jolly Harbour ATM from March 26

    In a strategic move impacting local financial services, the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB) has officially declared the permanent discontinuation of its Automated Teller Machine (ATM) operations at its Jolly Harbour location. This cessation of services is scheduled to take effect from Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

    The decision forms part of the bank’s broader operational review and network optimization strategy. ECAB has indicated that this measure is aimed at enhancing overall service efficiency and reallocating resources to channels with higher customer utilization rates. The bank’s internal analysis of transaction volumes and customer footfall at the Jolly Harbour terminal reportedly influenced the final verdict to decommission the facility.

    Financial patrons who regularly utilized the Jolly Harbour ATM are advised to transition to alternative service points. ECAB has confirmed that its nearest banking facilities, including full-service branches and other ATMs, remain fully operational in the surrounding vicinities. Customers can continue to access cash withdrawal, deposit, and account inquiry services at these locations without interruption.

    Furthermore, the bank emphasizes its commitment to expanding its digital banking portfolio, encouraging clients to adopt online and mobile banking solutions for routine transactions. This shift towards digitalization reflects a wider industry trend, reducing reliance on physical infrastructure while offering customers greater convenience and 24/7 access to their finances.

    ECAB has committed to ensuring a seamless transition for affected customers and has pledged to provide clear signage and customer communication in the lead-up to the closure date to minimize potential inconvenience.

  • LETTER: Is Dr. Philmore Benjamin a good choice to replace Sir Molwyn?

    LETTER: Is Dr. Philmore Benjamin a good choice to replace Sir Molwyn?

    Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape is witnessing a significant potential transition as speculation intensifies regarding the replacement of long-serving parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph. Multiple sources within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) indicate that Dr. Philmore Benjamin, a former United Progressive Party candidate who defected during last year’s mass exodus, has emerged as the favored successor for the St. Mary’s North constituency.

    The anticipated move would mark a substantial shift in representation, ending Sir Molwyn Joseph’s lengthy tenure. While other names including Winston Williams have been circulated within party discussions, internal consensus appears to be consolidating around Dr. Benjamin as the heir apparent to the ABLP ticket.

    This potential candidate change occurs against the backdrop of imminent general elections, with political observers suggesting the nation could head to the polls as early as April. The timing raises questions about the strategic calculations behind the possible nomination shift. Sir Molwyn, despite his extensive service and perceived capacity for at least another term, may be making way for a candidate believed to possess stronger electoral appeal in the current political climate.

    The transition reflects broader realignments within Antigua and Barbuda’s political sphere, particularly following the significant movement of politicians from the opposition UPP to the governing ABLP last year. As the constituency prepares for potential representation changes, voters and analysts alike are evaluating whether Dr. Benjamin’s candidacy represents a strategic masterstroke or a premature retirement of experienced leadership.

  • St. Mary’s North Registration Unit relocates

    St. Mary’s North Registration Unit relocates

    ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – In a strategic move to bolster electoral participation, the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has announced the relocation of its St. Mary’s North Registration Unit to a more accessible community location. The new operational base will be situated on Golden Grove Main Road, within the premises previously occupied by the Christian Faith Academy, adjacent to the Dr. Allister Francis Campus.

    This transition, effective from Monday, March 23rd, 2026, represents a significant enhancement in ABEC’s service delivery framework. The commission’s initiative is designed to streamline voter registration processes and improve constituent engagement by situating essential electoral services directly within the community. The relocation eliminates geographical barriers, offering residents expedited access to a comprehensive suite of electoral services, including new voter registrations, transfer applications, and replacement of expired Voter’s ID Cards.

    ABEC’s operational schedule remains consistent with previous arrangements. Constituents can avail themselves of these services from Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and on Fridays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. This relocation underscores ABEC’s commitment to fostering democratic participation through improved logistical planning and community-centric service models.

  • Ministry of Health joins with the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre to Recognize World Down Syndrome Day

    Ministry of Health joins with the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre to Recognize World Down Syndrome Day

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, in partnership with the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, is leading national observances for World Down Syndrome Day on March 20th. This global recognition spotlights the ongoing efforts to advance public understanding and societal acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome.

    Aligning with this year’s international theme centered on acceptance and inclusion, the Ministry has reinforced its dedication to creating equitable pathways to comprehensive healthcare, educational opportunities, and essential social services. The initiative emphasizes that these rights must be universally accessible, irrespective of an individual’s abilities.

    Public engagement is identified as a cornerstone of this mission. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in building a more inclusive community by demonstrating solidarity, confronting and dismantling existing stigmas, and honoring the accomplishments of those with Down syndrome.

    In a formal statement, the Ministry expressed profound gratitude to the nation’s healthcare professionals, dedicated caregivers, and relentless advocacy organizations. These groups are acknowledged for their pivotal role in safeguarding the rights and enhancing the quality of life for people with Down syndrome, serving as the backbone of support and progress in this vital area of public health.

  • Antigua Marks International Day of Forests with Focus on Economic Value of Forestry

    Antigua Marks International Day of Forests with Focus on Economic Value of Forestry

    The International Day of Forests, established through a United Nations General Assembly resolution in 2012, achieves global recognition each March 21st. This carefully selected date aligns with the vernal equinox phenomenon, representing seasonal transformation through nearly equal daylight and darkness across both hemispheres. The astronomical event occurs biannually, with the second equinox taking place approximately six months later in September.

    Central to this international observance is the mission to enhance public understanding regarding the multifaceted value of diverse forest ecosystems. The initiative promotes worldwide conservation strategies and sustainable management practices for wooded areas and individual trees alike.

    For the 2026 commemoration, the thematic focus “Forests and Economies” underscores the indispensable economic functions forests perform beyond conventional timber harvesting and renewable resource extraction. These natural systems fundamentally underpin agricultural productivity, strengthen community resilience, protect vital watershed infrastructure, and harbor immense biodiversity including potential pharmaceutical resources. The economic contributions extend far beyond direct employment and revenue generation, encompassing countless ecosystem services that form the foundation of sustainable development.

    In recognition of this year’s theme, the Ministry of Agriculture’s Forestry Division has scheduled official ceremonies for Monday, March 23rd, with primary activities concentrated in the Body Pond’s Area. This coordinated celebration highlights the intersection of environmental conservation and economic policy, emphasizing how forest preservation directly correlates with national prosperity.