Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • Dominica State College captures Schools’ Under 20 football title

    Dominica State College captures Schools’ Under 20 football title

    In a commanding display of athletic prowess, Dominica State College secured their championship defense in the Sports Division Secondary Schools Football Championship with a decisive 3-0 victory over Castle Bruce Secondary School. The final match, held on March 13, 2026, at the DFA Technical Training Center in Stockfarm, culminated in a dominant performance despite an initially promising start from their opponents.

    Castle Bruce Secondary opened with impressive offensive pressure, executing precise passing sequences and generating multiple scoring opportunities in the early minutes. However, their inability to convert these chances into goals proved costly as Dominica State College gradually established control over the match tempo.

    The scoring breakthrough came through Turrie Christmas, who delivered a spectacular first-half free kick from just outside the 18-yard box that left Castle Bruce’s goalkeeper helpless. This opening goal visibly impacted Castle Bruce’s defensive confidence. Nathaniel Roberts extended the lead before halftime with an exceptional right-footed strike that found the top corner of the net.

    Despite being reduced to 10 players in the second half following Roberts’ second yellow card offense, Dominica State College maintained their defensive discipline. Christmas sealed the victory with his second goal—a composed finish from within the six-yard box following defensive confusion from a corner kick. Castle Bruce’s attack failed to mount sufficient pressure in the final period, allowing Dominica State College to preserve their clean sheet and claim the championship trophy.

    The victory marks Dominica State College’s successful title defense in the U20 Sports Division Secondary Schools Football competition, demonstrating both offensive excellence and resilient defensive capabilities under pressure.

  • Cletus Abraham band leader of Belles Combo better known as ‘Halibut’ has passed

    Cletus Abraham band leader of Belles Combo better known as ‘Halibut’ has passed

    The Caribbean music community is mourning the profound loss of legendary Dominican musician Cletus Andrew, universally celebrated by his stage name ‘Halibut,’ whose passing was confirmed by regional media outlets. An instrumental figure in the evolution of Creole music, Andrew cemented his legacy as the frontman and creative force behind the seminal cadence-lypso ensemble Belles Combo during the 1970s. His band’s innovative fusion of traditional cadence rhythms with calypso sounds defined a generation of Dominican music.

    Andrew achieved widespread acclaim with his iconic hit single ‘PAWABOL,’ a track that transcended its era to become a perennial anthem at cultural celebrations and remains a cornerstone of the genre. His recent artistic engagement included a celebrated appearance alongside the Midnight Groovers at the prestigious 2025 World Creole Music Festival, demonstrating his enduring vitality and connection to audiences.

    Dominica News Online, in formally announcing his death, has conveyed profound sympathies to Andrew’s grieving family, his wide circle of friends, and the entire musical fraternity across the island nation and the wider Caribbean. His departure signifies the loss of a genuine cultural architect whose contributions laid a foundational pillar for the Creole music scene. Tributes from fellow artists, historians, and fans are pouring in, commemorating a man whose work ensured the preservation and vibrant continued life of Dominican musical heritage.

  • COMMENTARY: Second Dyabloten discovery at cable car project site

    COMMENTARY: Second Dyabloten discovery at cable car project site

    In an extraordinary wildlife encounter, Darnell Carbon of Morne Prosper, Dominica, has potentially become the first living Dominican to handle two critically endangered Dyabloten birds within an eight-month period. The latest encounter occurred on February 10, 2026, when Carbon’s colleague discovered a grounded black-capped petrel at the Upper Station of the island’s Cable Car Project.

    The nocturnal seabird, known scientifically as Pterodroma hasitata, was found nestled within steel formwork designated for concrete flooring at approximately 3:00 AM. Carbon, who had previously cared for another Dyabloten in May 2025, carefully retrieved the creature from the construction site at 8:00 AM, noting its significantly larger size and damp plumage.

    Remarkably, the bird demonstrated exceptional tameness toward Carbon, climbing onto his arm and head while resisting handling by other workers. Carbon provided paternal care for the avian visitor, housing it in a box with warming blankets for two days. The bird exhibited unusual behaviors including using its prehensile beak to climb onto Carbon’s bed.

    The reunion concluded on February 12 when the petrel launched from Carbon’s shoulder at daybreak, executing a circular flight pattern before disappearing toward Morne Nicholls’ summit. Carbon speculates this might be the same individual from his previous encounter, now nine months matured, based on its recognizable behavior and apparent familiarity.

    The black-capped petrel remains one of the Caribbean’s most elusive seabirds, currently known to nest exclusively on Hispaniola despite historical presence on multiple islands. Their eerie nocturnal calls earned them the colloquial name ‘little devil’ in local dialects. While Dominica has documented several grounded specimens, no active nests have been located on the island despite extensive searches using specialized detection methods.

    This exceptional encounter provides valuable insight into the species’ movement patterns and behavior, offering hope for conservation efforts aimed at protecting these critically endangered seabirds.

  • CDPF participates in Literacy Day 2026 by engaging and encouraging youth

    CDPF participates in Literacy Day 2026 by engaging and encouraging youth

    In a significant community outreach effort, officers from the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force marked Literacy Day 2026 with meaningful educational interactions at local schools. The initiative, part of the department’s broader Community Policing Strategy, featured Corporal George from Castle Bruce Police Station leading inspirational dialogues with students about personal development and positive decision-making.

    During the session, Corporal George delivered a powerful message emphasizing the inherent value of each student’s life as a divine gift, highlighting daily opportunities for educational advancement and personal growth. The officer stressed the fundamental importance of showing respect toward educators, maintaining academic focus, and cultivating practical skills essential for long-term achievement.

    A particularly impactful component of the presentation involved Corporal George employing the creative narrative ‘The Little Blue Seed’ to illustrate profound life principles. This allegorical tale depicted a seed’s developmental journey—breaking through soil barriers toward sunlight—serving as a metaphor for human resilience, persistent effort, and transformational new beginnings.

    The presentation further reinforced crucial themes including making constructive choices, adhering to positive pathways, and embracing spiritual guidance. Additionally, the event served to strengthen child-police relations, with officers explicitly positioning themselves as accessible allies for youth requiring assistance or experiencing fear.

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing robust community connections through continued educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and constructive engagement initiatives aimed at youth development.

  • IN CUSTODY of the CDPF: Scott Eddie Florant

    IN CUSTODY of the CDPF: Scott Eddie Florant

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has successfully apprehended Scott Eddie Florant, a previously sought individual facing serious criminal charges. Law enforcement officials confirmed his detention following an extensive public manhunt.

    Authorities have extended their gratitude to community members for their vigilant cooperation and ongoing support, which proved instrumental in the successful resolution of this case. The collaborative effort between citizens and police exemplifies the effective partnership necessary for maintaining public safety and judicial order throughout Dominica.

    In an official statement, the CDPF reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the security and wellbeing of all citizens and residents. The police force emphasized its dedication to pursuing all criminal elements that threaten community harmony.

    For those possessing information regarding criminal activities, the CDPF encourages contact through official channels at telephone number 266-5100 or via Crime Stoppers’ anonymous tip line at 1-800-8477. The department continues to rely on public assistance to effectively combat crime across the nation.

  • Stop order and compliance notice issued by Save Deux Branches on December 1,2025

    Stop order and compliance notice issued by Save Deux Branches on December 1,2025

    Dominican environmental regulators have taken decisive action against a major development consortium for serious ecological violations. The Physical Planning Division issued a formal Stop Order and Compliance Notice on December 1, 2025, targeting MMC Development Ltd (MMCE) and China Railway No. 5 Engineering Group (CR5) for their controversial ‘Deux Branches Operation’ project.

    The enforcement document, which surfaced publicly on the Save Deux Branches Facebook page, outlines multiple regulatory breaches with significant environmental implications. Chief among the violations is the illegal dumping of materials near the ecologically sensitive Pagua River, creating both environmental hazards and public health concerns for local communities.

    Regulatory authorities further determined that the development consortium proceeded with operational activities without obtaining mandatory departmental permissions, constituting a clear breach of regional planning protocols. The official order mandates immediate cessation of all project activities effective December 1, 2025, with substantial financial penalties authorized for non-compliance.

    The comprehensive 3.31MB documentation details specific remedial actions required alongside established fine structures for ongoing violations. This enforcement action represents a significant regulatory intervention in development activities affecting Dominica’s natural resources and community welfare.

  • Community patrol conducted in Cochrane – Derelict vehicles tagged

    Community patrol conducted in Cochrane – Derelict vehicles tagged

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) is amplifying its community engagement efforts through sustained patrols under its Community Policing Initiative. This week, officers conducted targeted operations in Cochrane village, facilitating substantive dialogues with residents to reinforce collaborative ties between law enforcement and the community.

    During these patrols, authorities identified multiple abandoned vehicles, placing official removal tags and explicit warning notices on them. The CDPF issued a firm directive to vehicle owners, mandating removal within a specified timeframe. Non-compliance will trigger legal consequences, including forcible removal of vehicles at owners’ expense.

    Police officials emphasized that derelict vehicles present multifaceted public safety concerns, including potential safety hazards, environmental contamination risks, and tendencies to attract criminal operations. The initiative forms part of broader measures to ensure communities remain secure, hygienic, and well-organized.

    The CDPF is urging continued public cooperation with law enforcement personnel to uphold safety standards across Dominican communities, reinforcing that effective policing requires active citizen participation.

  • CDB reports doubling of Climate Finance investments in 2025

    CDB reports doubling of Climate Finance investments in 2025

    The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) marked a transformative year in 2025 by authorizing an unprecedented $226.7 million for climate-focused initiatives, constituting its largest annual environmental commitment in history. This monumental allocation represented approximately 50% of the Bank’s total project approvals for the year and more than doubled the $101.5 million deployed in 2024.

    A significant portion of this climate financing was driven by a $125 million environmental Policy-Based Loan (PBL) to Guyana, supplemented by identical $30 million packages to Dominica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These strategic financial instruments are engineered to facilitate crucial reforms in biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable water management. Furthermore, they aim to enhance the technical and fiscal capabilities of member nations to withstand and recover from climate-induced disruptions.

    Valerie Isaac, Chief of the Environmental Sustainability Division at CDB, characterized the climate emergency as an existential threat to regional development and welfare, particularly impacting vulnerable populations. Speaking at the Bank’s Annual News Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados, she asserted that resilience has transitioned from being optional to an absolute necessity for regional stability and economic expansion.

    Beyond direct project funding, CDB secured an additional $27 million in grants and loans from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to support the Integrated Utility Services Programme. With total investments surpassing $68 million, this initiative will promote energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption—including rooftop solar installations—across Barbados, Belize, and Jamaica.

    Another $27 million in GCF grants will finance the Caribbean Hydrometeorological and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Services Project, modernizing forecasting infrastructure in Belize and Trinidad and Tobago to safeguard approximately 1.8 million residents.

    A key strategic advancement was the activation of the Climate Change Project Preparation Fund, designed to accelerate project pipelines by eliminating bottlenecks that hinder climate finance deployment.

    Looking toward 2026, CDB plans to intensify its climate agenda by finalizing a $200 million regional blue economy initiative to protect marine resources while generating employment in ocean-based industries. The Bank will also establish a regional platform to develop investment portfolios aligned with national energy and transportation objectives, while concurrently strengthening water sector resilience and promoting community-led adaptation strategies.

    Ms. Isaac emphasized that current decisions will shape the Caribbean’s developmental path for the next fifty years, pledging continued innovation, capacity-building, and large-scale mobilization of climate finance.

    The Annual News Conference was held on March 3, 2026, at the Frank Collymore Hall in Bridgetown, featuring addresses from President Daniel M. Best, Projects Director O’Reilly Lewis, and Acting Deputy Director of Economics Jason Cotton.

  • PANCAP director highlights innovation as key to ending AIDS ahead of Tenth NAP managers and partners conference

    PANCAP director highlights innovation as key to ending AIDS ahead of Tenth NAP managers and partners conference

    Health officials and stakeholders across the Caribbean are preparing for a pivotal gathering in Trinidad and Tobago to establish a coordinated battle plan against HIV/AIDS. The Tenth Meeting of National AIDS Programme Managers and Key Partners, scheduled for March 17-20, will focus on finalizing implementation strategies for the Caribbean Regional Strategic Framework (CRSF) 2026-2030.

    Dr. Wendy Telgt-Emanuelson, Director of the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) Coordinating Unit, emphasized the critical need for innovative approaches to achieve the region’s ambitious target of eliminating AIDS by 2030. “We must strengthen a coordinated, equitable, and sustainable Caribbean HIV response,” Dr. Telgt-Emanuelson stated, highlighting that success will require “alignment with the CRSF 2026–2030, driven by regional priorities, community-centred approaches, and evidence-informed policy.”

    The summit will assemble an unprecedented coalition of stakeholders, including National AIDS Programme Managers, Chief Medical Officers, Permanent Secretaries from Health Ministries, and representatives from Finance, Planning, and Community Development sectors. This multidisciplinary participation aims to ensure policy coherence and cross-sector collaboration in what organizers describe as a comprehensive approach to public health.

    Civil society organizations and community networks, particularly those representing key populations and People Living with HIV, are expected to contribute ground-level perspectives and advocacy insights. Their involvement is considered essential for maintaining a response strategy that reflects the realities of those most affected by the epidemic.

    International and regional partners including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, PAHO/WHO, and UNAIDS will join the discussions. The CARICOM Secretariat and PANCAP’s Coordinating Unit will facilitate the proceedings, working to transform strategic frameworks into actionable plans that address both national and regional priorities in the final push toward AIDS elimination.

  • Cuban president reveals talks with Trump administration

    Cuban president reveals talks with Trump administration

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez has officially confirmed the occurrence of high-level diplomatic negotiations between Cuba and the United States, marking a significant development in bilateral relations. These discussions, conducted under the guidance of Cuba’s revolutionary leadership and top governmental authorities, aim to address longstanding tensions exacerbated by recent economic sanctions.

    The dialogue initiative emerges against the backdrop of a severe energy crisis in Cuba, directly attributed to the U.S. energy blockade. President Díaz-Canel revealed that the nation has received no petroleum shipments in three months, resulting in massive blackouts that have crippled essential services including healthcare, education, and transportation networks. The western region experienced particularly devastating outages affecting millions of citizens, forcing the postponement of thousands of surgical procedures.

    Despite producing approximately 40% of its domestic petroleum needs, Cuba’s independent electricity generation has proven insufficient to meet national demand. The president characterized the situation’s impact as ‘tremendous,’ highlighting the urgent need for resolution.

    The negotiations represent Cuba’s continued commitment to its revolutionary principles while seeking practical solutions through diplomatic channels. The Cuban government emphasizes that these exchanges are conducted on the foundation of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international law. Primary objectives include identifying specific bilateral issues requiring attention, assessing mutual willingness toward cooperation, and exploring collaborative opportunities that address regional security concerns.

    Notably, the Cuban leadership maintains a measured approach toward recent provocative statements from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding potential ‘takeover’ scenarios. Officials stress that the negotiation process remains highly sensitive and is being handled with utmost responsibility, focusing on substantive dialogue rather than speculative narratives.

    The outcome of these talks could potentially reshape inter-American relations while addressing critical humanitarian concerns affecting both populations. Both nations appear to be testing the possibilities of moving from confrontation toward constructive engagement, though significant challenges remain given the complex historical context and current economic pressures.