Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    The Director of the Dominica Social Security (DSS), Janice Jean-Jacques Thomas, has issued a compelling appeal to the nation’s self-employed workforce, urging immediate registration with the national social security system to secure future welfare benefits. Emphasizing the critical need for personal financial planning, Thomas highlighted a concerning trend where individuals neglect to make provisions for their later years yet expect support upon reaching retirement age or becoming unable to work.

    Thomas articulated the core principle of the social security system as a mechanism for ensuring personal independence through compulsory savings. “By making the modest sacrifice of regular contributions during your productive years, you guarantee financial compensation from DSS when your earning capacity diminishes,” she stated, framing the system as a foundational pillar for retirement security rather than an optional expense.

    In parallel, the DSS Director issued a crucial advisory to all salaried employees, encouraging them to proactively verify their contribution status. Thomas clarified that observing a social security deduction on one’s payslip does not automatically confirm the remittance of those funds to the DSS. She strongly recommended that employees periodically visit DSS offices to conduct official checks, ensuring their employers are fully compliant with contribution payments on their behalf.

    This dual-focus outreach underscores a broader governmental effort to strengthen the social safety net by expanding coverage and enforcing compliance, thereby safeguarding citizens against financial insecurity in old age or incapacity.

  • Agriculture minister outlines government investment in revitalizing citrus industry

    Agriculture minister outlines government investment in revitalizing citrus industry

    The Dominican government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to rejuvenate the nation’s once-flourishing citrus industry, marking a significant agricultural development for the Eastern Caribbean nation. Agriculture Minister Hon. Roland Royer announced the ambitious initiative during a recent consultation with East Coast farmers in Castle Bruce, outlining a multi-faceted approach to agricultural restoration.

    Minister Royer identified citrus as a cornerstone of the government’s ‘five C’s’ agricultural development framework—citrus, cocoa, coffee, coconut, and cannabis—which are receiving prioritized support for expanded production. The government is currently propagating over 50,000 citrus plants specifically designated for distribution to both former and current citrus farmers, with particular attention to those operating within optimal agro-ecological zones to ensure cultivation success.

    This intervention addresses a critical shortage of planting materials that had precipitated the industry’s decline in recent years, despite Dominica’s historical reputation as a Caribbean citrus leader. Minister Royer acknowledged that while private sector propagation had diminished, the government has assumed responsibility for rebuilding the agricultural foundation.

    A centerpiece of the revitalization effort is a $7.7 million Citrus Certification Facility currently under construction at Londonberry, which is approximately 90% complete and expected to become operational within months. This advanced infrastructure will serve as a regional benchmark for producing disease-free, pest-resistant citrus plants, positioning Dominica among a select group of Caribbean nations with such sophisticated agricultural technology.

    The facility is designed to sustainably generate at least 50,000 citrus plants per production cycle, creating a resilient foundation for long-term industry growth. Minister Royer emphasized that the government’s comprehensive approach extends beyond immediate plant distribution to include ongoing consultations across agricultural regions in the coming weeks, ensuring continuous stakeholder engagement and adaptive strategy implementation.

    The citrus initiative represents a significant component of Dominica’s broader agricultural and economic development strategy, potentially creating new export opportunities and strengthening the nation’s blue and green economy objectives.

  • Dominica’s Girl Guides set to celebrate centennial World Thinking Day with week of festivities

    Dominica’s Girl Guides set to celebrate centennial World Thinking Day with week of festivities

    The Girl Guides Association of Dominica (GGAD) has unveiled an extensive week-long program to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World Thinking Day, signaling a century of commitment to female empowerment and community service. The celebrations, scheduled from February 22-27, 2026, will engage current members across all age groups—Rainbows through Rangers—alongside alumni and the broader Dominican community.

    Under the theme “100 Years of Friendship,” the association has curated a dynamic series of events that blend tradition with contemporary engagement. The festivities will commence with an official opening ceremony and mass at Roseau Cathedral on February 22nd, featuring Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, Chief Guide, alongside representatives from the Dominica National Scouts Organization. This will be followed by a ceremonial procession through the capital city.

    A highlight of the centennial observance includes a panel discussion titled “A Bond That Time Couldn’t Break” at the UWI Auditorium on February 23rd. This forum will examine the transformative impact of Guiding principles on Dominican society and will be broadcast live via Facebook to ensure widespread accessibility.

    Additional activities comprise National Pride Day on February 26th, where participants will proudly wear their Guide uniforms in a demonstration of collective identity, culminating in a Centenary Talent Show at St. Martin Secondary School on February 27th featuring youth performances.

    Merkwan Pacquette, Public Relations Officer of GGAD, emphasized the profound significance of this milestone: “This celebration transcends organizational recognition—it honors the countless Dominican women whose character development has been fundamentally shaped by Guiding values throughout the past century.”

    The association extends an open invitation to media representatives and the public to participate in recognizing this historic achievement, offering arranged interviews with key officials and youth ambassadors upon request.

  • U.S. issues statement condemning participation in Cuban medical mission program across the board

    U.S. issues statement condemning participation in Cuban medical mission program across the board

    The United States has escalated its diplomatic offensive against Cuba’s international medical mission programs, issuing a formal condemnation of foreign governments that participate in these initiatives. In a strongly worded statement, U.S. officials characterized these medical deployments as systematic human rights violations, accusing partner nations of becoming accomplices in what they described as exploitative labor practices.

    The American position maintains that Cuba’s medical system operates through coercive mechanisms that violate fundamental worker rights, and that countries engaging with these programs directly enable the Cuban government’s alleged exploitation of medical professionals. The statement emphasized that financial arrangements between Cuba and participating nations effectively subsidize these questionable practices while undermining ethical international labor standards.

    U.S. officials presented alternative pathways for Caribbean nations seeking medical personnel, suggesting ethical recruitment channels exist that don’t involve partnering with Cuba’s controversial program. The statement specifically urged the international community to reject what it termed ‘forced labor schemes’ and demand greater accountability from the Cuban government regarding its treatment of medical workers.

    The declaration concluded with a call for collective action, emphasizing that genuine progress in human rights protection requires unified international adherence to ethical standards. The U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to holding accountable those entities and nations that facilitate or participate in forced labor practices, positioning this stance as part of broader human rights advocacy.

  • Three European countries present credentials to CARICOM this week

    Three European countries present credentials to CARICOM this week

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has significantly enhanced its international diplomatic network through the formal accreditation of three new European ambassadors this week. Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett presided over ceremonies welcoming senior diplomats from Sweden, Norway, and Austria to the regional organization.

    On February 3rd, Dr. Barnett accepted the Letters of Credence from Swedish Ambassador Her Excellency Maria Velasco, followed the next day by the accreditation of Norwegian Ambassador His Excellency John Petter Opdahl and Austrian Ambassador His Excellency Gerold Vollmer.

    During the ceremonies, Dr. Barnett emphasized the strategic importance of these partnerships, noting Sweden’s critical role in climate action and energy infrastructure development. ‘Our collaboration spans bilateral, regional, and multilateral dimensions,’ she stated, highlighting joint initiatives in ocean governance, water resource management, and climate adaptation strategies.

    The Secretary-General particularly acknowledged Norway’s longstanding support, recalling its instrumental role in establishing CARICOM’s Secretariat Office in Haiti in the early 2000s. She praised Norway’s continued commitment to regional security through support of the Gang Suppression Force under UN mandates.

    Regarding Austria’s engagement, Dr. Barnett highlighted financial contributions to the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) and professional development programs for Caribbean diplomats. All three ambassadors were urged to prioritize Haiti’s stabilization efforts given the nation’s ongoing political transition.

    In response, the European ambassadors emphasized shared global perspectives. Ambassador Velasco noted that CARICOM and EU nations collectively represent 41 countries with aligned positions on international issues. Ambassador Opdahl reaffirmed Norway’s dedication to addressing challenges faced by small island states, while Ambassador Vollmer outlined three key collaboration areas including potential establishment of a CARICOM office in Vienna.

  • Miss Teen Dominica to be crowned this weekend

    Miss Teen Dominica to be crowned this weekend

    The Windsor Park Sports Stadium will transform into a vibrant showcase of emerging talent this Sunday as the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company presents the 47th Miss Teen Dominica Pageant. Five distinguished contestants from across the island nation will compete for the coveted 2026 title in an evening celebrating youth excellence and cultural heritage.

    This year’s competition features an impressive roster of academically accomplished young women: Jeffrine Joseph (Castle Bruce Secondary School), Joyette Carbon (Portsmouth Secondary School), Janice Williams (Goodwill Secondary School), Marina Jno Baptiste (Operation Youth Quake), and Ladira Dyer (Isaiah Thomas Secondary School). Each contestant arrives with substantial community backing, featuring sponsorship support from prominent national institutions including the National Cooperative Credit Union, Springfield Trading, and Archipelago Trading.

    The pageant will employ a comprehensive judging system across five distinct performance categories: Promotional Speech, Talent Showcase, Creative Costume presentation, Evening Wear evaluation, and a critical Question & Answer segment. Beyond the competitive proceedings, attendees will be treated to special performances by reigning Calypso Monarch Joy, Janae Jackson, alongside finalists Nachel and Redz. The entertainment lineup further includes appearances by the Junior Calypso Monarch, Junior Bouyon Monarch, and cultural presentations by the Waitukubuli Dancers, Bwa Bwa, and the Mahaut Sensay troupe.

    Organizers have positioned the event as a centerpiece of Dominica’s Carnival celebrations, promising an immersive experience that blends traditional pageantry with contemporary entertainment. For those unable to attend physically, a pay-per-view streaming option will be available through the Kairi FM and DBS Facebook platforms. Tickets remain available for purchase at Depex and Bulls Eye Pharmacy locations throughout the island.

    With primary sponsorship provided by A.C. Shillingford & Co. Ltd., the 2026 edition continues the pageant’s nearly five-decade tradition of highlighting the intellectual, artistic, and cultural achievements of Dominica’s youth population.

  • OECS Secretariat assists St Vincent and the Grenadines in advancing digital innovation

    OECS Secretariat assists St Vincent and the Grenadines in advancing digital innovation

    The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has reinforced its commitment to accelerating digital transformation across member nations, recognizing its pivotal role in modernizing governance structures and stimulating economic advancement. This strategic focus has materialized through a collaborative initiative with the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), where digital evolution constitutes a fundamental pillar of national development policy.

    A comprehensive two-day workshop convened in SVG brought together critical stakeholders from multiple governmental sectors including National Security, Immigration, Customs, Civil Registry, Electoral processes, and Health services. The session, supported by the European Union through the 11th EDF Regional Integration Through Growth, Harmonization, and Technology (RIGHT) project, focused on evaluating and strengthening the legal, policy, and governance frameworks essential for implementing advanced Civil Registration and Unique Identification (UID) systems.

    Dr. Didacus Jules, OECS Director General, articulated the profound implications of digital transformation, stating: “This transition represents far more than technological enhancement—it signifies a fundamental restructuring of government-citizen interaction and service delivery mechanisms.” He emphasized that modernized registration systems establish the foundation for transparent, agile, and inclusive governance structures.

    The workshop facilitated detailed consultations and expert-led discussions on emerging digital identification trends and optimal practices. Participants conducted thorough assessments of existing legislative frameworks while identifying areas requiring policy harmonization and modernization.

    Concurrently, specialized equipment was formally transferred to SVG authorities to support the decentralization and efficient management of civil registration operations across both urban and rural communities. Winston George, Coordinator of the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP), highlighted the UID system’s strategic significance as “a cornerstone of Digital Public Infrastructure” that enables streamlined government operations and robust Know Your Customer processes across sectors.

    Ms. Shernell Hadaway, representing the Attorney General’s office, emphasized the necessity of broad-based understanding and acceptance across government, civil society, and private sectors for successful system implementation.

    This integrated approach—combining policy refinement, technological investment, and capacity building—marks a significant advancement in SVG’s digital transformation journey. The OECS Commission continues to collaborate with SVG and other member states to develop secure, interoperable systems that improve service accessibility, stimulate economic activity, and position Eastern Caribbean nations as digital governance innovators.

  • LIVE: Mas Camp 5th February 2026

    LIVE: Mas Camp 5th February 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago’s celebrated cultural showcase, Mas Camp Live, is now accessible to worldwide audiences through a complimentary digital broadcast. The event’s organizers have partnered with streaming platform ComeSeeTV to deliver real-time coverage of tonight’s festivities without any subscription requirements or paywalls.

    This strategic digital initiative marks a significant expansion for the traditionally location-bound carnival celebration. By utilizing EventMappers’ streaming technology, the production enables interactive viewer participation alongside the conventional broadcast. The move represents the ongoing digital transformation within cultural entertainment sectors, particularly for carnivals facing audience limitations due to geographical constraints.

    The high-definition stream promises to deliver the vibrant spectacle of Mas Camp’s traditional performances, costume exhibitions, and musical presentations. This accessibility solution arrives during peak carnival season, offering international enthusiasts front-row access to Trinidad’s rich cultural heritage regardless of their physical location.

    Event organizers emphasize that this digital approach complements rather than replaces the live experience, serving as both an accessibility solution for overseas supporters and a technological trial for future hybrid events. The broadcast maintains the authentic atmosphere of Mas Camp while introducing global audiences to Trinidad’s distinctive carnival traditions.

  • Voter registration to resume next month, says Electoral Office

    Voter registration to resume next month, says Electoral Office

    The Electoral Office of Dominica has officially declared the resumption of voter registration activities effective March 9, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s electoral modernization efforts. This development follows the successful implementation of the Registration of Electors Act, 2025, which mandated a comprehensive overhaul of the electoral infrastructure.

    The temporary suspension of registration services, initially implemented in 2025, was necessary to facilitate the transition to an advanced computerized system and align procedures with updated eligibility criteria established by the new legislation. The Act further stipulated that all existing voters must formally confirm their registration status, requiring the Electoral Commission to announce a designated confirmation period within one month of the law’s enactment.

    In accordance with these legal requirements, the Electoral Office implemented a phased approach, prioritizing the voter confirmation process that launched in October 2025 as the initial phase of implementation. During this transitional period, the Office was legally prohibited from processing registrations through previous mechanisms or utilizing outdated forms, necessitating the development of a completely new system for generating legislatively-compliant voter identification numbers.

    The newly deployed registration system represents a technological leap forward, featuring sophisticated software architecture, a high-tech registration platform, and comprehensively trained personnel. Specially appointed registering officers and their assistants will utilize computerized devices capable of direct data entry, document scanning, and photographic capture of applicants, significantly streamlining the registration process while enhancing security and accuracy.

    The Electoral Office has confirmed full operational readiness for this second phase implementation, ensuring compliance with all legislative deadlines while modernizing the democratic infrastructure of the Commonwealth of Dominica.

  • IICA reps meet with Bahamas agriculture minister to continue distribution to farmers in wake of Hurricane Melissa

    IICA reps meet with Bahamas agriculture minister to continue distribution to farmers in wake of Hurricane Melissa

    The Bahamas government, in partnership with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), has initiated a comprehensive agricultural support program for farmers devastated by Hurricane Melissa’s October impact. Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell personally oversaw the distribution of critical farming inputs in Exuma district alongside IICA’s Bahamas Representative Mari Dunleavy and her technical team.

    The catastrophic hurricane, which caused significant fatalities and widespread destruction across the Caribbean region, particularly damaged agricultural infrastructure throughout the Bahamian archipelago. Long Island emerged as one of the most severely affected areas, prompting coordinated international response efforts spearheaded by IICA to facilitate procurement and delivery of essential supplies.

    Minister Campbell acknowledged IICA’s crucial support, stating: “This collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to building agricultural resilience. Our ministry remains dedicated to implementing recovery strategies that will strengthen our food production systems against future climate challenges.”

    The initiative forms part of broader strategic policies aimed at enhancing national food security through reduced import dependency and promoted sustainable agricultural practices. Dunleavy emphasized IICA’s ongoing commitment: “The Bahamas has been advancing strategic initiatives to strengthen local food security and foster sustainable agricultural production, which we fully support through technical cooperation and resource mobilization.”

    Under Minister Campbell’s leadership, the recovery program integrates multiple developmental objectives including employment generation, support for traditional farmers and fisherfolk, and ensuring stable access to affordable fresh produce for the population. Notable components include expansion of sustainable agriculture projects and hydroponics systems across multiple islands, direct producer support through input provision and technical assistance, and value chain reinforcement through improved producer-distributor linkages.

    The Ministry has concurrently intensified focus on agricultural education, developing specialized programs with academic institutions to attract youth to the sector. Enhanced phytosanitary capabilities through mobile laboratories and improved crop protection measures further demonstrate the comprehensive approach to building a competitive, resilient agricultural sector capable of accessing international markets.