Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Antiguans Among Graduates at UWI Global Campus 2025 Ceremony

    Antiguans Among Graduates at UWI Global Campus 2025 Ceremony

    The University of the West Indies Global Campus commemorated its 2025 graduation ceremony with hundreds of students from across the Caribbean region, including numerous scholars from Antigua and Barbuda, successfully completing diverse academic programs. These graduates achieved qualifications spanning multiple disciplines, with exceptional performance demonstrated through first-class honors and distinctions in fields such as education, social sciences, legal studies, tourism and hospitality, and scientific domains.

    During the ceremonial proceedings, Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles addressed the graduating cohort, characterizing the Class of 2025 as a generation forged through extraordinary resilience. He emphasized that these scholars accomplished their educational objectives while navigating significant challenges including destructive hurricanes, the persistent COVID-19 pandemic, and considerable economic instability. Beckles articulated that graduates are entering a global landscape characterized by climate emergencies, social inequality, and geopolitical tensions, yet possess the necessary capabilities to drive innovation and leadership throughout the Caribbean region.

    “Your presence here represents no accidental occurrence but rather the culmination of immense sacrifice, unwavering resilience, and countless hours of dedicated study amidst periods of uncertainty,” Beckles stated. He compellingly urged graduates to embrace their roles as architects and builders of a transformed Caribbean future defined by innovative solutions rather than constrained by limitations.

    The Vice-Chancellor particularly highlighted the capacity of small island communities, including those in Antigua, Jamaica, and Barbados, to serve as incubators for globally significant solutions. The ceremony additionally honored Sir Calix George of St Lucia with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his contributions, while valedictorian Alex Anderson praised the Global Campus’s flexible educational model that enables students to balance academic pursuits with professional and personal responsibilities.

    Graduates were formally inducted into the UWI alumni network and encouraged to maintain institutional connections as they advance into their professional careers, carrying forward what Beckles described as their unique narrative, societal responsibility, and transformative hope throughout Caribbean communities.

  • HAPI hands over refurbished homes to families in Swetes and Hatton

    HAPI hands over refurbished homes to families in Swetes and Hatton

    In a significant stride toward poverty alleviation, Antigua’s Home Assisted Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) has successfully handed over fully renovated homes to two families in Swetes and Hatten. The initiative, which focuses on improving living conditions for vulnerable residents, provided these refurbishments at absolutely no cost to the homeowners.

    Social and Urban Improvement Minister Rawdon Turner personally oversaw the handover ceremonies for Arlene Wilson and her 15-member family in Swetes, and Shamara Thomas and her nine-member household in Hatten. The renovation work was expertly executed by construction teams from National Housing, demonstrating the government’s commitment to practical solutions for housing challenges.

    Minister Turner emphasized the program’s non-partisan nature, stating: ‘HAPI operates without regard to political affiliation or racial background. Our singular mission remains helping citizens escape poverty through improved living conditions.’ He revealed that the program has already enhanced over 100 homes since its inception, with recent arrivals of construction materials enabling simultaneous multiple upgrades across different locations.

    The minister addressed criticism from opposition figures, characterizing attempts to discourage participation in HAPI as ‘deeply unfortunate.’ He pointed to dramatic before-and-after photographs as undeniable evidence of the program’s transformative impact. ‘Today marked a emotional milestone as we helped two families escape deplorable conditions,’ Turner noted, referencing one homeowner’s tearful reaction upon receiving her refurbished property keys.

    Mary Baltimore, Coordinator of the Social Protection Board, working alongside HAPI coordinator Inspector Veldon Ragguette, described the dual home presentations in a single day as a landmark achievement for both the benefiting families and the implementing agencies.

  • National Young Voices for Wetlands Competition Launched for World Wetlands Day 2026

    National Young Voices for Wetlands Competition Launched for World Wetlands Day 2026

    A groundbreaking national creative competition has been unveiled in Antigua and Barbuda to engage youth in environmental conservation through artistic expression. The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN), in collaboration with the Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project, has initiated the Creative Young Voices for Wetlands Competition in anticipation of World Wetlands Day 2026.

    Aligned with the global theme “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” the initiative challenges students to explore the profound interconnection between wetland ecosystems and community identity through creative mediums. Participants across various age groups can submit entries in three distinct categories: creative writing, photography, and visual arts.

    The competition framework encourages youth to produce original works—including poetry, short stories, essays, drawings, digital art, and paintings—that reflect on wetlands’ multifaceted value to health, economy, environment, and cultural preservation. Submission acceptance commenced recently and will continue through January 26, 2026, providing an extended creative engagement period during the upcoming academic year.

    Wetlands represent critically productive ecosystems that deliver indispensable services including coastal storm protection, erosion control, habitat provision for endangered species, carbon sequestration, freshwater filtration, and cultural enrichment. Throughout the Caribbean region, mangroves and wetland systems serve as vital barriers safeguarding coastal communities while maintaining ecological balance.

    Winning entries will be selected based on creative originality, cultural relevance, and adherence to ESFN’s core pillar of Expression. Successful participants will receive recognition and prizes, with all shortlisted works featured in ESFN’s Endeavour Publication and promoted across partner platforms. The announcement of winners will coincide with World Wetlands Day celebrations on February 2, 2026.

    This collaborative effort between ESFN—a nonprofit dedicated to sustainability and youth development across Small Island Developing States—and the IUCN-implemented Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project aims to cultivate environmental stewardship among younger generations while highlighting traditional ecological knowledge.

    Detailed submission guidelines and entry portal access are available through the official competition link: https://qrco.de/bgYRqF

  • US Warns Americans to Leave Venezuela Immediately

    US Warns Americans to Leave Venezuela Immediately

    The United States Department of State has escalated its travel advisory for Venezuela to its highest level, issuing an unequivocal directive for all American citizens to depart the South American nation immediately. This urgent warning cites a perilous and rapidly deteriorating security environment, compounded by the risk of wrongful detention and the near-total collapse of the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

    The advisory underscores a constellation of critical threats facing U.S. nationals, including the high potential for arrest on unsubstantiated charges by Venezuelan authorities. The document highlights the severely limited capacity of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas to provide emergency consular services, leaving Americans without reliable support in crisis situations. This limitation is attributed to the reduced diplomatic presence following the 2019 withdrawal of most U.S. government personnel.

    Background context reveals this advisory occurs amidst protracted political turmoil and a severe economic crisis in Venezuela. Relations between the U.S. and the government of Nicolás Maduro remain intensely strained, characterized by extensive sanctions and non-recognition of his administration by Washington. The warning reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the region and serves as a significant indicator of the breakdown in bilateral diplomatic channels.

    The immediate implications are severe for any Americans choosing to remain, potentially facing extreme hardship without consular protection. This development also signals a likely further deterioration in U.S.-Venezuela relations, potentially foreshadowing more aggressive foreign policy measures. The advisory will undoubtedly impact humanitarian operations and any remaining commercial interests, effectively isolating Venezuela further from international engagement.

  • Tyra Fenton Qualifies for 2026 CARIFTA Games in Three Sprint Events

    Tyra Fenton Qualifies for 2026 CARIFTA Games in Three Sprint Events

    Emerging track sensation Tyra Fenton has achieved a remarkable athletic milestone by securing automatic qualification in three separate sprint disciplines for the upcoming 2026 CARIFTA Games. The young sprinter, who will compete in the Under-17 girls division, earned her place in Grenada’s prestigious regional competition through exceptional performances in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter events.

    The Antigua Barbuda Athletic Association officially confirmed Fenton’s triple qualification, highlighting the accomplishment as testament to her consistent high-level performance and dedicated training regimen. The association emphasized that Fenton’s achievement not only demonstrates her individual excellence but also positions her as a standout representative for Antigua and Barbuda on the regional athletics stage.

    Adding to the significance of her qualification, Fenton will return to defend her championship title in the 400-meter event, where she previously claimed victory at the CARIFTA Games. The 2026 competition, scheduled to take place in Grenada, represents one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious junior athletics tournaments, bringing together the region’s most promising young talent across multiple track and field disciplines.

    The CARIFTA Games have long served as a critical developmental platform for Caribbean athletes, many of whom have progressed to international success including Olympic and World Championship competitions. Fenton’s triple qualification places her among an elite group of junior athletes who have achieved multiple event qualifications in the games’ history.

  • OPINION: Caribbean Justice – No Appeals No Juries No Preliminary Inquiries

    OPINION: Caribbean Justice – No Appeals No Juries No Preliminary Inquiries

    The United Kingdom’s justice system faces unprecedented transformation under Justice Secretary Lammy’s controversial proposals, which critics argue dismantle centuries-old legal protections. These developments occur against a backdrop of severe prison overcrowding and growing social unrest, with the Labour government opting to eliminate fundamental judicial processes rather than address root causes.

    The abolition of jury trials and appeal rights represents the latest step in a gradual erosion of legal safeguards, following the earlier removal of preliminary inquiry proceedings. Legal experts warn this approach targets symptoms rather than causes, as sustainable solutions must originate within communities, schools, and families.

    Amid speculation regarding Lammy’s political ambitions—whether challenging Starmer for leadership or undermining the current government—the proposed reforms raise alarming parallels to authoritarian practices. Recent Caribbean maritime assassinations and police misconduct cases involving officers like Wayne Couzens and David Carrick demonstrate the dangers of expanding street-level judicial power without adequate oversight.

    The trajectory suggests further radical changes may follow, including lowered criminal responsibility ages, incarceration of children in high-security facilities, reduced tribunal access, and potentially even reinstatement of capital offenses. This progression toward carceral extremism contrasts sharply with parallel developments that see pardons for severe offenders and sentence reductions for politically connected individuals.

    The implications extend beyond mainland Britain to Overseas Territories, which face imposition of contradictory policies regarding same-sex relationships and marijuana use despite cultural differences. This colonial-style oversight persists despite the recent Post Office scandal that devastated hundreds of wrongfully convicted individuals, highlighting the critical importance of appellate review.

    While most Caribbean nations have achieved independence from colonial governance, they now face new challenges requiring regional solidarity against external pressures, including American geopolitical incursions. The cyclical nature of these justice reforms suggests concerning patterns rather than meaningful progress.

  • Man detained less than 24 hours after wanted bulletin issued in Grays Farm shooting

    Man detained less than 24 hours after wanted bulletin issued in Grays Farm shooting

    Law enforcement authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have successfully apprehended Tevin Willock, a suspect wanted in connection with a serious shooting incident in the Grays Farm area. The arrest occurred Sunday within the same community where the alleged crimes took place, marking a swift conclusion to an intensive manhunt that lasted less than twenty-four hours.

    The Royal Police Force had previously issued an urgent bulletin to the public identifying Willock as a person of interest for firearm-related violations and additionally for escaping lawful custody. The police advisory specifically warned community members against approaching the suspect and instead encouraged his peaceful surrender to authorities.

    Following his detention, Willock remains in police custody where he is undergoing formal interrogation procedures. Investigators continue to pursue active lines of inquiry regarding the initial shooting event that prompted the widespread search. The police department has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the case and maintaining public safety.

    Authorities are continuing to solicit information from the community and have provided multiple channels for confidential reporting, including direct contact with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913, local police stations, or the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at 800-TIPS (8477). All information provided will be handled with utmost discretion and confidentiality.

  • Thousands Turn Out as One Nation Festival Opens to Packed Grounds in Antigua

    Thousands Turn Out as One Nation Festival Opens to Packed Grounds in Antigua

    The inaugural evening of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival transformed Antigua’s Recreation Grounds into a vibrant tapestry of regional culture on Friday, with thousands of attendees creating an electric atmosphere. The event showcased a powerful display of Caribbean unity, evidenced by the sea of flags from Dominica and St. Lucia waving among the enthusiastic crowd.

    The night’s most unexpected highlight emerged when Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne took the stage in his musical alter ego ‘Gassy Dread,’ delivering a memorable collaboration with Jamaican dancehall sensation Mr. Vegas. This unprecedented fusion of politics and performance generated significant buzz throughout the venue.

    Jamaica’s musical dominance continued with compelling sets from dancehall powerhouse Masicka, the legendary fire-reggae performer Capleton, soulful crooner Christopher Martin, and the iconic Gramps Morgan of Morgan Heritage fame. The festival’s diverse musical palette expanded further with Dominica’s Signal Band, who delivered an infectious bouyon rhythm that energized the audience.

    Local Antiguan talent received substantial representation through acclaimed performances by Tian Winter, soca artist Claudette Peters, and the legendary Burning Flames ensemble. The festival continues its momentum on Saturday evening from 5 p.m., transitioning to spiritual melodies with American gospel superstar Tasha Cobbs Leonard leading a program featuring both regional and local gospel artists, ensuring the event’s musical diversity remains a central theme.

  • Dominican community in Antigua denies voting claims, calls for formal representation

    Dominican community in Antigua denies voting claims, calls for formal representation

    The Dominican expatriate community in Antigua and Barbuda has formally refuted allegations that its members participated illegally in the nation’s recent general elections. This rebuttal comes in direct response to media reports circulated on December 3, 2025, which suggested electoral misconduct by Dominican immigrants.

    In an official communiqué, community representatives explicitly stated that their constituency has never appointed any individual or group to act as governmental liaisons. Despite constituting the largest immigrant population within the country and having developed substantial roots across the islands, the community emphasized its historical lack of formal representation before official authorities.

    Community leaders now assert that establishing structured representation has become both equitable and essential for improved governance relations. They propose constituting a specialized commission to oversee a transparent selection process for community representatives. This framework would mandate clear eligibility requirements, methodological selection criteria, and precisely defined functional boundaries for any appointed representatives.

    The proposed representation model would operate strictly within parameters mutually recognized by both Antiguan and Dominican governments. Representatives would serve purely consultative roles without exercising political authority or diplomatic privileges. The initiative aims to facilitate improved communication channels between the Dominican community and governmental bodies while maintaining strict adherence to legal protocols.

    Community members expressing interest in participating in this democratic initiative are encouraged to engage with organizers as planning discussions progress.

  • Food Handlers Urged to Register for February Training Sessions

    Food Handlers Urged to Register for February Training Sessions

    The Central Board of Health (CBH) under St. Lucia’s Ministry of Health has unveiled comprehensive preparations for its upcoming food safety certification program, scheduling training sessions throughout February 2026. Health officials are strongly advising all current and prospective food service professionals to complete their registration promptly due to limited capacity arrangements.

    Registration protocols require personal attendance at the CBH offices situated on Upper Church Street during specified morning hours from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The enrollment process demands different documentation based on applicant status: first-time participants must provide two passport-sized photographs, while those seeking certificate renewal need to present expired food handler badges dated 2018 or later.

    A standard registration fee of EC$50 applies to all participants, with an additional EC$25 penalty charge for those requiring session rescheduling after missing their allocated training date. Each instructional session will accommodate a maximum of 80 attendees at the Multi-Purpose Centre in Perry Bay, with specific scheduling arrangements: February 5th dedicated to new applicants (9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.), while February 12th (9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.) and February 19th (1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.) will focus on retraining programs.

    The health regulatory body has explicitly stated that children will not be permitted within training facilities during instructional hours. This policy reinforces the professional nature of the certification program and ensures optimal learning conditions for all participants.