Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Rotary Club of Antigua Hosts Panel Discussion in Observance of World Obesity Day

    Rotary Club of Antigua Hosts Panel Discussion in Observance of World Obesity Day

    The Rotary Club of Antigua has taken a decisive stand against the escalating global obesity epidemic by convening a high-level panel discussion in recognition of World Obesity Day on March 4. This event formed part of the broader Rotary Moves Initiative across Rotary District 7030, which prioritizes prevention, awareness campaigns, and the development of healthier communities.

    Distinguished medical experts comprising the panel included Dr. Sharon Cordner, a specialist in Internal Medicine; Mrs. Dorothy Graham-Charles, Nutrition Manager at the Medical Benefits Scheme Nutrition Centre; and Ms. Charity Dublin, Public Health Nutritionist representing the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment. These professionals provided critical insights into nutritional science, preventive healthcare measures, and public health policy frameworks.

    The discussion highlighted alarming global projections indicating that approximately four billion people worldwide could be affected by overweight or obesity by 2035. Childhood obesity rates have demonstrated a particularly disturbing trajectory, surging nearly fivefold since 1975. This trend is especially pronounced in low- and middle-income nations, creating a pressing international health challenge.

    Medical experts emphasized that childhood obesity frequently persists into adulthood, significantly elevating risks for severe non-communicable diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and various cancers. Current statistics reveal nearly three billion individuals globally already live with overweight or obesity, including over 400 million school-aged children.

    The Rotary Club of Antigua maintains that these concerning health outcomes are preventable through coordinated community action. The organization advocates for enhanced public awareness campaigns, support systems for healthier lifestyle choices, and strengthened partnerships across community organizations.

    “Tackling childhood obesity demands more than individual responsibility,” stated club representatives. “It requires comprehensive community engagement, evidence-based education programs, and policy initiatives that foster healthier environments for all citizens.”

    This panel discussion represents one component of the club’s sustained commitment to improving community health outcomes and empowering families to make informed nutritional choices. Through the Rotary Moves Initiative, clubs throughout the district continue to champion preventive measures, early intervention protocols, and equitable healthcare access.

    As World Obesity Day garners global attention, Rotary International encourages collective action among individuals, families, educational institutions, and organizations. By promoting understanding rather than stigmatization, prioritizing prevention from early childhood, and ensuring fair access to treatment, communities can potentially alter the course of this expanding public health challenge.

  • Rotary Club of Antigua announces winners of its first‑ever “Let Peace Prevail on Earth” Poster Art Competition

    Rotary Club of Antigua announces winners of its first‑ever “Let Peace Prevail on Earth” Poster Art Competition

    ANTIGUA – In a landmark celebration of youth creativity and global citizenship, the Rotary Club of Antigua has successfully concluded its inaugural “Let Peace Prevail on Earth” poster art competition. The initiative, which engaged young artists from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions nationwide, culminated in an awards ceremony at Rotary House on March 5, 2026.

    The competition challenged participants to visually interpret themes of peace, unity, and global harmony, resulting in an exceptional display of artistic talent and profound conceptual depth. Winners across four age categories received EC$500 cash prizes, custom peace poles, and art supplies, while several exceptional entries earned special recognition awards.

    Mr. Alvin Livingstone, speaking on behalf of the judging panel, praised the remarkably high standard of submissions. He emphasized that winning entries were selected based on three critical criteria: artistic merit, conceptual originality, and the powerful communication of peace in action. Each submission demonstrated thoughtful engagement with complex global themes through visual media.

    Rotary Club of Antigua President Mrs. Elisa Graham highlighted the competition’s alignment with Rotary International’s core peacebuilding mission. “Through service projects, youth engagement, and educational programs,” she stated, “Rotary addresses conflict’s root causes including poverty, inequality, and educational gaps. When youth articulate their peace visions, they become ambassadors of tolerance and unity.”

    President Graham further emphasized the competition’s philosophical significance: “Peace begins in our homes, schools, communities – and yes, on blank paper. These young artists learn that resolution comes through dialogue and collaboration, not division.”

    The ceremony recognized category winners including Peace-Marie Browne (St. Nicholas Primary), Haedriana Bent (Five Islands Primary), Deja Neke Philo (Christ the King High School), and Tianna Henry (Christ the King High School). Special awards celebrated Gabrielle Grant’s powerful peace message, Terresha Harris’s innovative color use, and Zoey Carter’s dual recognition for peace ambassadorship and conceptual originality.

    The event concluded with expressions of gratitude to parents, educators, judges, Rotarians, and sponsors whose support enabled this investment in youth potential and global citizenship development.

  • AGHS Alumnae Present EC$3,000 Donation Following Book Project

    AGHS Alumnae Present EC$3,000 Donation Following Book Project

    In a significant demonstration of lifelong institutional loyalty, the Antigua Girls’ High School (AGHS) has been fortified by its global network of former students. The school administration formally accepted a substantial EC$3,000 financial contribution during a special assembly on Wednesday. The donation was presented by distinguished representatives of the alumnae association, Dr. Ermina Osoba (née Davis) and former Headmistress Evelyn Sheppard (née Davis).

    Principal Rosalind Beaser presided over the ceremony, extending profound appreciation for the timely contribution, which coincides with the institution’s recent 140th-anniversary observances. She lauded the graduates for their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the school’s heritage and for reciprocating their educational foundation with tangible support.

    The donation is intrinsically linked to a major legacy initiative: the publication of a commemorative volume chronicling the school’s history. The project originated from a digital conversation initiated by alumna Holly Peters (née Joseph), evolving into a collaborative effort to document personal narratives and professional accomplishments of students who have passed through the island’s exclusive public secondary school for girls. Published in 2024 by Tellwell Publishing, the volume serves a dual purpose as both a historical record and a fundraising instrument.

    This endeavor transcends mere nostalgia, highlighting the powerful, intergenerational connections fostered within the AGHS community. Financial returns generated from the book’s sales on major platforms, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble, will be channeled directly into the school’s development programs. This ongoing revenue stream promises to further underwrite a tradition of academic excellence that has characterized the institution for over fourteen decades.

  • LETTER: Desmond Charles and Charlesworth Tabor Kicked Out. Who Will She Purge Next?

    LETTER: Desmond Charles and Charlesworth Tabor Kicked Out. Who Will She Purge Next?

    A significant internal crisis has engulfed the United Progressive Party (UPP) as prominent voices within the organization demand the immediate removal of leadership figures Gisele Isaac and Jamale Pringle. This urgent call to action comes amid growing concerns over the party’s direction and internal cohesion.

    The current turmoil represents a dramatic fall from grace for a party that previously enjoyed two successful terms under Baldwin Spencer’s leadership, followed by Harold Lovell’s near-victory that came within a mere six votes. The political landscape has shifted considerably since those achievements, with the UPP now facing severe challenges including organizational disarray, internal divisions, and significant defections.

    The situation reached a critical juncture following the recent removal of two longstanding party members—Desmond Charles and Charlesworth Tabor—from the Executive committee. Charles, recognized as a key strategic architect behind the party’s near-victory in 2023, contributed substantially through polling operations, campaign infrastructure development, and direct candidate support during periods of limited financial backing. Similarly, Tabor provided years of dedicated service including legal counsel and active participation in party activities.

    According to internal sources, the dismissals appear connected to the leadership’s intolerance of constructive criticism rather than any substantive failures in performance. This pattern of purging dissenting voices has created an environment where open dialogue is suppressed in favor of blind loyalty to the current leadership.

    The timing of these developments raises serious questions about strategic judgment, occurring just before a crucial by-election where party unity would typically be prioritized. Critics argue that Isaac and Pringle have demonstrated minimal concern for the party’s cohesion, public reputation, or political viability through these actions.

    Further scrutiny falls on Pringle’s political inheritance—a traditionally safe seat previously held by Charlesworth Samuel—which critics claim has been mismanaged through ineffective representation and lackluster leadership. The current leadership faces accusations of relying on sycophantic support rather than demonstrating genuine governing capability.

    The article concludes with an urgent appeal for change, rejecting appeals for sympathy and demanding competent leadership focused on performance rather than pity. The final message serves as both a warning and a challenge to party elders to address these critical issues before the window for meaningful reform closes entirely.

  • Young Women Leaders to Debate Cannabis Law Reform in All-Female Parliamentary Sitting

    Young Women Leaders to Debate Cannabis Law Reform in All-Female Parliamentary Sitting

    In a landmark event combining youth empowerment with legislative discourse, Antigua and Barbuda’s Parliament will convene a special all-female parliamentary debate on March 9, 2026. The Young Women in Leadership (YWiL) debate represents the culmination of an intensive eight-week leadership program timed to coincide with International Women’s Day celebrations.

    The parliamentary proceedings will commence with the House of Representatives at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Senate session at 1:00 p.m. The event will be publicly accessible both in person and through live broadcasts on ABS Television and its digital platforms.

    Senator The Hon. Alincia Williams Grant, Senate President and Interim Chair of the Network of Women Parliamentarians, emphasized the program’s significance: ‘This collaboration with CIWiL and ParlAmericas demonstrates how strategic partnerships can effectively build leadership capabilities among young women across our region. These participants have shown exceptional dedication throughout the program, and we anticipate their valuable contributions to Monday’s debate.’

    The leadership initiative gained substantial momentum during a recent Fireside Chat with prominent female leaders held on March 5. The discussion featured insights from three distinguished professionals: Charmaine Quinland-Donovan (CEO of the Citizenship by Investment Unit), Ladesa James-Williams (CIBC’s OECS Retail Sales Director and Country Head for Antigua), and Kathy David (Chartered Accountant and Partner at Grant Thornton Antigua). Moderated by Senator The Hon. Jamilla Kirwan, the conversation explored professional journeys, overcoming challenges, and leadership development strategies.

    Senator Kirwan reflected on the session’s impact: ‘These authentic narratives demonstrate that successful careers are built on perseverance and courage despite obstacles. Such exchanges help demystify leadership roles and make aspirations more attainable for young women.’

    The centerpiece of Monday’s parliamentary session will be a formal debate on establishing a Joint Select Committee to comprehensively review Antigua and Barbuda’s cannabis legislation framework. The proposed motion calls for examination of multiple legislative instruments, including the Misuse of Drugs Act amendments (2014-2024) and the Cannabis (Amendment) Act 2022.

    The review would employ human rights and evidence-based approaches to assess social, legal, economic, and public health impacts, with particular attention to effects on women, youth, caregivers, and vulnerable populations. The proposed committee would engage in widespread consultation with experts, government agencies, community organizations, and the public to evaluate implementation effectiveness and identify potential policy adjustments.

    This debate constitutes a core component of the broader YWiL initiative, which aims to equip young women with practical experience in parliamentary processes while fostering inclusive, forward-looking approaches to national policy development.

  • ESFN Concludes World Wetlands Day Activities with Successful RAMSAR Site Ecological Tour to Barbuda

    ESFN Concludes World Wetlands Day Activities with Successful RAMSAR Site Ecological Tour to Barbuda

    In a landmark ecological initiative, the EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN) has successfully concluded an immersive educational tour to Codrington Lagoon National Park, Antigua and Barbuda’s designated RAMSAR Site. The expedition, timed to coincide with World Wetlands Day 2026 observances, united seventy participants from both islands—marking the first visit to Barbuda for many Antiguan students and environmental enthusiasts.

    The program brought together students and faculty from Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies alongside members of local environmental organizations including IHO Nature Rangers, Scrub Life Cares, and Adopt-a-Coastline. Notably, twenty-four Barbudan youth contributors provided media documentation expertise, capturing the cross-cultural exchange through professional photography and videography.

    Centered on one of the Caribbean’s most significant ecological and cultural landscapes, the tour offered hands-on exploration of wetland ecosystems including seagrass beds and mangrove nurseries. Participants witnessed firsthand the critical role these habitats play in regional biodiversity, climate resilience, and community welfare.

    A highlight included guided observation of the Magnificent Frigate Bird Sanctuary during mating season, where participants observed males displaying distinctive red gular pouches alongside nest-building activities and newborn chicks. This encounter sparked dynamic discussions about avian conservation and knowledge gaps in species research.

    The expedition also documented environmental changes at Pink Sand Beach, where recent ground swells have exacerbated coastal erosion. Researchers examined a newly formed breach in the shoreline—the second such occurrence since Hurricane Irma’s devastating impact in 2017 created a persistent environmental concern that remains unaddressed.

    Aligning with the 2026 World Wetlands Day theme ‘Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,’ the program integrated indigenous ecological wisdom with modern conservation practices. Through community dialogues, participants explored how ancestral knowledge informs contemporary stewardship of natural resources.

    Britney McDonald, ESFN Portfolio Manager, noted: ‘This tour enabled young people to connect with our natural heritage while recognizing their potential as future custodians of these ecosystems. Combining ecological learning with community engagement inspires lasting action for both people and nature.’

    The initiative underscores ESFN’s commitment to youth leadership development through citizen science approaches, climate resilience building, and environmental justice advocacy. Organization representatives confirmed plans to collaborate with Barbudan communities to address research gaps in frigate bird conservation through participatory data collection.

    ESFN acknowledged support from the IUCN Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project, Hillside Tours Barbuda, and Sea Bridge Ltd. in facilitating this cross-cultural environmental exchange that has strengthened inter-island conservation networks.

  • Response to Unfortunate Statements made by George Wehner.

    Response to Unfortunate Statements made by George Wehner.

    The National Solid Waste Management Authority successfully managed a service disruption in the Seatons/Glanvilles regions after a driver shortage necessitated operational adjustments. When one driver reported sick, another crew member promptly assumed the additional route to maintain collection services.

    Collection operations commenced at 1:45 PM and continued until 5:17 PM, when the truck reached full capacity. Despite these efforts, two roads remained unserviced by the conclusion of the shift. The Authority confirmed these areas received complete service the following morning, minimizing the impact on residents.

    In an official statement, the Authority praised its staff’s dedication and professionalism in responding to unforeseen circumstances. The organization emphasized that such operational challenges can occur in any service environment and reaffirmed its commitment to addressing them promptly and responsibly.

    The Authority also called for public discussions regarding service matters to be grounded in accurate information and constructive engagement rather than sensationalism. They emphasized that maintaining high standards of performance and accountability remains their top priority, particularly when facing unexpected operational challenges that could affect community services.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Under-20 Football Team Praised After Securing Concacaf Championship Qualification

    Antigua and Barbuda Under-20 Football Team Praised After Securing Concacaf Championship Qualification

    In a landmark achievement for Caribbean football, Antigua and Barbuda’s Under-20 men’s national team has secured qualification for the 2026 CONCACAF Under-20 Championship following a dominant performance in the qualifying rounds. The squad returned home triumphantly on Wednesday after an impeccable campaign where they not only topped their group but also maintained a perfect defensive record without conceding a single goal.

    Daryll Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, personally welcomed the team at the airport, characterizing their accomplishment as a moment of national pride. In his official remarks, Matthew emphasized the extraordinary nature of the achievement, noting that the combination of group dominance and defensive perfection represents a significant milestone for the nation’s football program.

    ‘The coaching staff and athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill and discipline throughout this campaign,’ Matthew stated. ‘Their achievement goes beyond mere qualification—it signals the maturation of our youth development systems and the potential for greater international success.’

    The minister further highlighted how the team’s performance reflects the growing competitiveness of Antigua and Barbuda’s football infrastructure, emphasizing that such successes validate ongoing investments in youth sports development. He particularly commended the players for embodying national pride and demonstrating unwavering determination against regional competitors.

    The 2026 CONCACAF Under-20 Championship will showcase the region’s most promising young talent, with teams competing not only for continental supremacy but also for qualification to the prestigious FIFA Under-20 World Cup. This achievement positions Antigua and Barbuda as an emerging force in Caribbean football, with Minister Matthew concluding: ‘This team has illuminated a brilliant future for football in our nation.’

  • PHOTOS: Road Repairs Underway in Golden Grove as Infrastructure Upgrades Continue

    PHOTOS: Road Repairs Underway in Golden Grove as Infrastructure Upgrades Continue

    Crews are actively executing essential road maintenance operations in the Golden Grove community, marking a significant phase in the constituency’s sustained infrastructure enhancement initiative. This project represents a strategic municipal investment aimed at preserving transportation networks and ensuring long-term roadway integrity. Local governance officials have emphasized that these systematic repairs demonstrate an ongoing dedication to public welfare, prioritizing both resident safety and motorist convenience. The maintenance strategy focuses on preemptive intervention to address wear-and-tear, thereby reducing potential hazards and preventing more costly future reconstructions. Infrastructure analysts note that such consistent upkeep programs are critical for community development, directly impacting economic accessibility and quality of life. The current repairs align with a broader municipal framework for sustainable public works management, balancing immediate repair needs with strategic long-term planning. Transportation authorities confirm that the project follows established road safety standards while minimizing disruption through phased implementation. Community feedback mechanisms have been established to address resident concerns throughout the construction period, ensuring transparent communication between contractors and stakeholders. This infrastructure investment reflects the growing recognition that well-maintained roadways serve as fundamental pillars for community connectivity and regional development.

  • Tamara Roberts Wins $500 in Flow’s Riddim and Rewards Promotion

    Tamara Roberts Wins $500 in Flow’s Riddim and Rewards Promotion

    Telecommunications provider Flow has announced Tamara Roberts as the latest victor in its ongoing ‘Riddim and Rewards’ customer engagement initiative. The promotional campaign, designed to reward customer loyalty and interaction, has awarded Roberts a substantial cash prize of $500. The program typically involves participants engaging with the brand through various channels, potentially including social media interactions, usage of specific services, or entry into draws upon meeting certain criteria set by the company. This win highlights Flow’s continued strategy of deploying targeted promotions to enhance customer satisfaction and brand affinity within its subscriber base. Such initiatives are common in the competitive telecom sector, where companies frequently leverage rewards programs to differentiate their offerings and retain a strong market position. The announcement serves to promote the ongoing campaign, encouraging further participation from existing and potential customers by showcasing tangible benefits and successful outcomes.