Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • Dominica ratifies PAHO/WHO Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–203, prioritizing regional cooperation in healthcare

    Dominica ratifies PAHO/WHO Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–203, prioritizing regional cooperation in healthcare

    In a significant advancement for regional public health, the Commonwealth of Dominica has formally endorsed the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization’s (PAHO/WHO) Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) for the period 2026–2031. This ratification positions Dominica alongside fellow Eastern Caribbean states in a unified effort to reinforce healthcare infrastructures through a framework built on solidarity, equity, and resilience.

    The comprehensive strategy, designed to serve Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, functions as a medium-term roadmap for health promotion and sustainable development. Its formulation followed extensive dialogues with member states, regional bodies, development allies, and civil society organizations, crystallizing a shared vision to confront emerging health crises while championing inclusive and equitable healthcare.

    Dr. Kyra Paul L’Homme, Permanent Secretary at Dominica’s Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, emphasized the strategy’s critical importance during the official signing ceremony. She outlined that the MCCS will catalyze the strengthening of Dominica’s health system via several key pillars: bolstering primary healthcare, enhancing emergency readiness, expanding the health workforce, driving digital transformation, and intensifying the fight against both communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. L’Homme highlighted the strategy’s role in fortifying national resilience and ensuring equitable access to quality health services amidst a volatile global landscape marked by supply chain disruptions and health security threats.

    This collaborative initiative is particularly vital for the Caribbean, a region navigating a complex health environment. Challenges include a high prevalence of NCDs, persistent infectious disease risks, and the escalating impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Health systems are further strained by workforce shortages and financial constraints, which often result in significant out-of-pocket costs for patients.

    In response, Eastern Caribbean governments are pursuing reforms focused on reinforcing primary care, advancing national health insurance, integrating health information systems, and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure. Dominica is already realizing benefits from PAHO’s Smart Hospitals Initiative, with completed upgrades to facilities in LaPlaine, Grand Bay, and Portsmouth, and future projects planned for Mahaut and Wesley.

    Grounded in the core principles of equity, resilience, and sustainability, the MCCS will utilize established regional platforms like the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and CARICOM to foster cooperation. The Government of Dominica has expressed its commitment to ongoing collaboration with PAHO/WHO and regional partners to transform this strategic blueprint into actionable measures, aiming to achieve substantial health improvements for its citizens and the wider Eastern Caribbean community.

  • CARICOM Chairman PM Terrance Drew speaks on visit to PM Skerrit, ahead of 50th CARICOM H.O.G gathering (with audio)

    CARICOM Chairman PM Terrance Drew speaks on visit to PM Skerrit, ahead of 50th CARICOM H.O.G gathering (with audio)

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of the Commonwealth of Dominica hosted Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis for high-level talks focused on strengthening Caribbean integration. The meeting, characterized by mutual respect and shared vision, primarily addressed strategic preparations for the upcoming 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Conference scheduled for February 24-27 in St. Kitts and Nevis.

    The leaders issued a joint statement emphasizing that regional solidarity within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) remains imperative for developing coordinated responses to shared challenges. They specifically highlighted the need for collaborative approaches to trade relations, economic integration, and contemporary geopolitical pressures affecting member states.

    Prime Minister Drew, who will host the landmark conference, provided substantive insights into the agenda during a subsequent media briefing. He confirmed that discussions would center on ‘advancing regional integration, enhancing trade mechanisms, and strengthening institutional relations within CARICOM as a unified entity.’

    When questioned about sensitive regional issues including U.S.-Venezuela tensions and visa policy developments, Drew advocated for a consensus-based approach among Caribbean leaders. He notably clarified that ‘no chairman serves as president or prime minister of CARICOM,’ underscoring the community’s commitment to collective decision-making.

    The leaders also addressed Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, which have recently faced international scrutiny. Prime Minister Drew defended these initiatives as beneficial when implemented with transparency and equitable access, arguing that unified management would ensure their continued viability.

    Both leaders exchanged commendations, with Drew praising Skerrit’s assertion that CARICOM’s founding principles remain critically relevant today. Skerrit reciprocated by applauding Drew’s unprecedented diplomatic outreach to fellow CARICOM heads of state prior to assuming conference leadership, describing it as a ‘noble decision’ that demonstrates exceptional commitment to regional cooperation.

    In lighter moments, Prime Minister Drew expressed particular admiration for Dominica’s natural beauty, noting that ‘the naturalness of Dominica is beautiful and irreplaceable.’

    Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Skerrit confirmed that Dominica’s first parliamentary session of 2026 will convene on February 23, immediately preceding the CARICOM conference.

  • OP-ED: Building inclusive futures for women and girls through STEM education

    OP-ED: Building inclusive futures for women and girls through STEM education

    A profound gender disparity continues to plague global Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education systems and workforce participation, with UNESCO data revealing women comprise merely 35% of STEM graduates worldwide—a statistic unchanged for over ten years. The Latin America and Caribbean region demonstrates even more pronounced inequality, where despite women constituting 60% of tertiary graduates, they represent less than 40% of STEM professionals, with particularly low representation in engineering (under 31%) and information technology (14%).

    The roots of this systemic exclusion trace to deep-seated cultural narratives that stereotype STEM as masculine domains. In patriarchal societies worldwide, girls face discouragement from technical subjects and are frequently steered toward ‘softer’ academic pursuits. Afghanistan presents the most extreme case, where approximately 2.2 million girls are systematically denied education beyond primary level under official prohibition.

    According to OECD analyses of Latin American and Caribbean nations, gendered career expectations emerge early, with only 14% of girls anticipating STEM occupations compared to 26% of boys. This gap manifests in confidence disparities, with just 27% of girls expressing mathematical confidence versus 45% of boys. Domestic responsibilities further disadvantage female students, with adolescent girls in countries like Bolivia, Guatemala and Nicaragua dedicating 3-4 hours daily to care work—significantly more than their male counterparts.

    Professional environments introduce additional barriers including gender pay gaps, limited advancement opportunities, and frequently hostile workplace cultures. Historical erasure of female contributions has perpetuated the perception of STEM as male-dominated territory, with women currently constituting just one-third of scientific researchers globally.

    The United Nations designated February 11 as International Day of Women and Girls in Science to promote gender parity in scientific fields. The 2026 observance focuses on ‘Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls,’ highlighting the critical need to integrate artificial intelligence with interdisciplinary approaches to accelerate sustainable development.

    Education reformers emphasize that comprehensive policy frameworks must address funding shortages, mentorship gaps, and institutional barriers. Successful interventions include visibility campaigns featuring accomplished female scientists, school outreach programs, early exposure to constructive play activities, and laboratory access initiatives. Creating inclusive environments where women and girls can drive innovation remains essential for both gender equity and scientific progress.

  • Sour Sour 2026 Calypso single ‘Lion King’

    Sour Sour 2026 Calypso single ‘Lion King’

    Dominican calypsonian Sour Sour has unveiled his highly anticipated musical contribution for Carnival 2026 with the powerful release titled “Lion King.” The artist delivered a captivating performance of this new composition during the recent Calypso eliminations, showcasing his continued artistic evolution in the Caribbean music scene.

    The track, which blends traditional calypso rhythms with contemporary musical elements, demonstrates Sour Sour’s distinctive vocal style and lyrical prowess that has characterized his previous works. The recording, made available through Dominican News Online, features the artist’s signature storytelling approach that has earned him recognition within the calypso community.

    This release continues Sour Sour’s musical journey that began years ago, with his 2021 performances still remembered by calypso enthusiasts. The “Lion King” represents another chapter in the artist’s creative expression, potentially addressing themes of strength, leadership, and cultural identity through the metaphor of the lion, a recurring symbol in Caribbean musical storytelling.

    The musical piece has been professionally recorded and distributed, allowing audiences to experience the full depth of Sour Sour’s latest artistic vision. This release contributes to the rich tapestry of Carnival 2026 preparations, maintaining the tradition of calypso as both entertainment and social commentary during the festival season.

  • STATEMENT: Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government on end of transitional presidential council in Haiti

    STATEMENT: Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government on end of transitional presidential council in Haiti

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has formally acknowledged Haiti’s political transition following the completion of the Transitional Presidential Council’s two-year mandate. Prime Minister Didier Fils Aimé and the Council of Ministers have now assumed governance responsibilities during what is anticipated to be a brief interim period focused on critical national priorities.

    CARICOM leadership emphasized that this transitional phase will concentrate on three fundamental objectives: enhancing national security conditions, accelerating preparations for democratic elections, and initiating social and economic recovery programs. The regional body stressed that while political stability is urgently needed, any sustainable solution must be fundamentally Haitian-led and reflect the aspirations of all Haitian citizens through inclusive consultation mechanisms.

    The community expressed particular concern about the deteriorating security situation and humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Haitians. CARICOM endorsed Prime Minister Fils Aimé’s immediate priorities, which emphasize the inseparable connection between security and human dignity. His proposed emergency plan focuses on providing essential food supplies, healthcare access, and shelter provisions to the most vulnerable populations.

    CARICOM has committed to ongoing support through its Eminent Persons Group, which will maintain engagement with all Haitian stakeholders. The regional community reaffirmed its commitment to embracing Haiti as a full member state despite current challenges.

    The CARICOM Heads of Government anticipate early discussions with Prime Minister Fils Aimé during the upcoming 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, scheduled for February 24-27, 2026, in St. Kitts and Nevis. This meeting will provide the first formal platform for regional coordination since the new interim administration assumed power.

  • UPDATE: Nicholas Marius captured

    UPDATE: Nicholas Marius captured

    Law enforcement authorities in the Commonwealth of Dominica have successfully apprehended Nicholas Marius, a wanted individual who had been the subject of an extensive search operation. The Dominica Police Force officially confirmed Marius is now in custody following a coordinated effort between law enforcement and community members.

    Police Commissioner Daniel Carbon issued a formal statement expressing profound gratitude for the public’s vigilant cooperation, noting that citizen tips and community awareness played a decisive role in locating the suspect. The successful conclusion of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative security efforts between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

    While specific details regarding the circumstances of the apprehension remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that Marius was taken into custody without incident. The police department emphasized that this arrest represents a significant achievement in their ongoing commitment to public safety and criminal justice.

    The development marks the resolution of a case that had drawn considerable public attention across the Caribbean nation. Law enforcement officials have scheduled a press briefing to provide additional details regarding the charges and legal proceedings that Marius will face.

  • Performance order determined for highly-anticipated 2026 Calypso Grand Finals

    Performance order determined for highly-anticipated 2026 Calypso Grand Finals

    Dominica’s vibrant Calypso community is abuzz with anticipation as the island nation prepares for its premier musical showdown. The 2026 Calypso Grand Finals, scheduled for Saturday, February 14th, will showcase the nation’s top vocal talents following the completion of the essential traditional dipping ceremony.

    This crucial pre-competition ritual took place on Tuesday, February 10th at Calypso House, where ten qualifying calypsonians and the judging panel participated in the formal proceedings. According to Dominica Calypso Association Public Relations Officer Peter Letang, this year’s dipping ceremony featured innovative approaches supported by headline sponsors Flow Dominica and Josephine Gabriel and Company Limited.

    The distinguished judging panel comprises Nadine Riviere, Yola Toussaint, Loftus Durand, Susan Alexander, Colin Pellewy, Al Monell, Leona John, and Natasha Henderson, with Julian Benjamin presiding as Chief Judge. Reserve judges Patrick Fontaine and Edward Lawrence will also oversee the competition.

    Heading into the championship event, Abiyah Israel leads the rankings as the top contender, followed by Reds in second position and JD in third. The complete top ten lineup continues with Caressa (4th), Checker (5th), Joy (6th), Tasha P (7th), Daddy Chess (8th), the Bobb (9th), and Nashville completing the roster.

    Organizers are urging Dominican supporters to fill the stadium for the February 14th event commencing at 8:30 AM. Ticket options include general standing ($100), general seating ($150), elevated seating ($250), and VIP party packages ($250). The event promises an electrifying display of musical artistry as these talented performers vie for top honors through their socially conscious lyrics and captivating performances.

  • New hotline launched to support enforcement of minimum wage order

    New hotline launched to support enforcement of minimum wage order

    The Dominican government has launched a specialized Minimum Wage Hotline to strengthen enforcement of the Minimum Wage Order 2025 that took effect December 1, 2025. Operated by the Ministry of Labour, Public Service Reform, Social Partnership, Entrepreneurship, and Small Business Development, this initiative represents a significant advancement in worker protection mechanisms.

    According to an official release from the Office of the Prime Minister, the hotline serves as a centralized resource for both employees and employers seeking authoritative information on sector-specific minimum wage regulations. The system is designed to provide clarity on compensation standards across different industries while ensuring proper implementation of the new wage order.

    The comprehensive service enables workers to report violations where compensation falls below legally mandated thresholds, offers guidance on compliance requirements, and provides sector-specific implementation strategies. The government emphasizes that this initiative reflects its commitment to ensuring fair compensation practices and safeguarding workers’ rights across all economic sectors.

    Accessible through multiple communication channels, the public can contact the Ministry’s compliance officers via direct phone call, WhatsApp messaging at 767-316-3195, or email at minimumwage@dominica.gov.dm. All inquiries and reports will be handled with strict confidentiality, according to official assurances from the ministry.

    The establishment of this dedicated hotline represents a proactive approach to labor rights enforcement, providing a direct mechanism for addressing wage disparities and promoting equitable compensation practices throughout Dominica’s workforce.

  • Nicholas Marius wanted by Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force

    Nicholas Marius wanted by Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force

    Law enforcement agencies have initiated an urgent public appeal for information regarding Nicholas Marius, a dangerous fugitive who escaped from lawful custody on February 9, 2026. The escape occurred while Marius was being held for a serious criminal offense, though specific details of the original charges remain undisclosed to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

    Police departments across jurisdictions have coordinated efforts to recapture the escapee, emphasizing the potential risk to public safety. Officials have activated emergency response protocols, urging citizens to exercise caution and immediately report any sightings or information related to Marius’s whereabouts.

    The public can contact authorities through multiple channels including direct emergency services at 911, the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at 1800-8477, or by visiting any local police station. Law enforcement emphasizes that no piece of information is too small and guarantees confidentiality for all tips provided.

    Investigators are pursuing multiple leads and have deployed additional resources to track the fugitive’s movements since the escape. The public announcement serves both as a warning regarding potential danger and as a call for community assistance in apprehending the individual.

  • Nineteen countries meet in Barbados as part of Green Overseas workshop for water management solutions

    Nineteen countries meet in Barbados as part of Green Overseas workshop for water management solutions

    From February 9 to 13, 2026, Barbados will serve as the host for a pivotal international workshop addressing water management crises. The event, orchestrated by the Green Overseas Programme (GO), will assemble delegates from 19 European Union and United Kingdom Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) to confront escalating hydrological challenges.

    The workshop architecture combines specialized training modules with a collaborative peer-to-peer exchange platform. This dual approach is designed to tackle the full spectrum of water resource issues, from ensuring potable water access and preserving fragile ecosystems to implementing climate adaptation strategies.

    Island territories globally are experiencing intensified water vulnerability due to a convergence of threats. Declining precipitation patterns, prolonged droughts, saltwater contamination of aquifers, and increased flooding frequency are creating complex management dilemmas that impact civilian welfare, agricultural productivity, and economic stability.

    The Barbados convening emphasizes practical, region-specific methodologies. Through territorial presentations, expert panels, and interactive exercises, participants will share operational experiences and transferable solutions. Attendees include government officials, public administrators, water service managers, engineers, and climate specialists directly involved in water governance.

    Barbados was selected as the host nation due to its emblematic struggles with water scarcity, groundwater dependency, tourism pressure, demographic expansion, and climate disruption. The island has consequently launched numerous initiatives to bolster water security. Workshop participants will conduct field visits to examine local projects potentially including desalination facilities, advanced wastewater treatment plants, flood mitigation infrastructure, and wetland preservation sites.

    This gathering represents the latest in a series of Green Overseas Programme initiatives, following six previous workshops on energy transition and three on climate resilience. Focused on building durable water management systems, the event aims to amplify inter-territorial cooperation, enhance knowledge dissemination, and fortify the GO Climate Change Resilience network.

    Outcomes from the workshop and technical visits will be synthesized by Ramboll into a comprehensive best practices catalogue. This document will catalog successful innovations and solutions pioneered by OCTs, facilitating their adoption and adaptation across territories grappling with analogous water security challenges.