Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority strengthens presence in Quebec, Ottawa markets

    Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority strengthens presence in Quebec, Ottawa markets

    The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has initiated a significant strategic expansion within key Canadian markets, specifically targeting Quebec and the national capital region of Ottawa. This calculated move is designed to substantially increase the twin-island nation’s visibility and appeal among Canadian travelers, a crucial demographic for the Caribbean tourism sector.

    This enhanced market presence involves a multi-faceted approach, incorporating targeted marketing campaigns, strengthened partnerships with Canadian travel trade operators, and a series of high-profile engagement events. The strategy is meticulously crafted to resonate with the unique cultural and linguistic nuances of Quebec, while simultaneously leveraging Ottawa’s status as a hub for both government and corporate travel.

    The initiative is a direct response to the robust recovery and growing demand in post-pandemic travel from Canada to warm-weather destinations. By deepening its roots in these specific urban centers, Antigua and Barbuda aims to position itself as a premier choice for discerning Canadian tourists seeking luxury, adventure, and distinct Caribbean experiences. The authority’s efforts underscore a commitment to not only recapture but also exceed pre-2020 visitor arrival numbers from this vital market, contributing significantly to the islands’ economic revitalization.

  • UWI Launches 2026 Council Meetings, Showcasing Year-in-Review Achievements and Strategic Priorities

    UWI Launches 2026 Council Meetings, Showcasing Year-in-Review Achievements and Strategic Priorities

    KINGSTON, JAMAICA – The University of the West Indies (UWI) initiates its comprehensive 2026 Annual Council Meetings series starting March 6 from its Mona Campus headquarters. This governance tradition marks a significant moment of institutional accountability for the Caribbean’s premier higher education institution.

    Professor Densil Williams, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal, will inaugurate the proceedings with a detailed review of the 2024-2025 academic year. His presentation, scheduled for 9:00 AM Jamaica time, will encompass research breakthroughs, operational metrics, student demographics, and stakeholder engagement initiatives across the university network.

    The subsequent weeks will witness consecutive council gatherings across UWI’s five physical campuses and its digital Global Campus platform. These deliberative sessions will evaluate institutional performance metrics, financial accountability reports, and strategic direction for the multi-campus university system that serves 17 Caribbean governments.

    This annual exercise in institutional transparency gains particular significance following UWI’s recent recognition by Times Higher Education, which placed the university among the top 3.6% of global higher education institutions. This ranking, benchmarked against approximately 35,000 universities worldwide, underscores UWI’s international academic standing.

    All council meetings will be publicly accessible through UWI’s digital broadcasting platform (uwitv.global) and dedicated Flow Channels, maintaining the university’s commitment to public engagement. Each session will conclude with structured media question-and-answer segments, allowing journalists to submit inquiries through designated interactive channels.

    The complete 2026 meeting schedule includes: Mona Campus (March 6), Cave Hill Campus (March 13), Global Campus (March 18), St. Augustine Campus (March 25), Five Islands Campus (March 26), and the culminating University Council Meeting on May 8.

  • 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.’