Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • Live coverage of Election Day 2025 in St. Lucia

    Live coverage of Election Day 2025 in St. Lucia

    St. Lucia witnessed a significant surge in civic participation during its 2025 General Election, with preliminary reports indicating substantially higher voter turnout compared to the previous electoral cycle in 2021. Election officials and independent observers have characterized the participation rate as remarkably elevated, reflecting heightened public engagement in the democratic process.

    The increased voter activity occurred amid comprehensive media coverage, with major news organizations including DNO and Hot7 TV providing extensive real-time reporting from polling stations across the island nation. These media outlets deployed teams of journalists to deliver continuous updates and analytical commentary throughout the election day proceedings.

    The substantial rise in voter participation suggests growing political awareness among the St. Lucian electorate, potentially influenced by contemporary issues facing the Caribbean community. This electoral engagement demonstrates the vitality of democratic institutions within the Commonwealth nation and underscores the population’s commitment to shaping their governance future through constitutional processes.

    As ballot counting progresses, citizens and international observers await the official declaration of results that will determine the composition of the next government and political leadership direction for the eastern Caribbean state.

  • Dominica’s gov’t announces upgraded fees for eco sites

    Dominica’s gov’t announces upgraded fees for eco sites

    The Dominican government has unveiled a revised fee structure for accessing its protected natural areas and eco-tourism sites, set to take effect December 1, 2025. The Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment announced the changes following their inclusion in the recently presented National Budget Address for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

    In a significant development, two of Dominica’s most cherished natural wonders—Titou Gorge and Cold Soufrière—have received formal designation as nationally managed eco-tourism sites. This new status means standard entrance fees will now apply to these previously more accessible locations.

    According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the primary objective behind the fee restructuring is to create sustainable revenue streams dedicated to environmental preservation. The generated funds will be strategically reinvested into biodiversity conservation programs, trail maintenance, landscape management, and sustainable tourism infrastructure.

    The government also revealed plans to implement an online booking system that will allow visitors to purchase access passes before arriving in Dominica. This digital initiative aims to streamline the entry process and enhance the overall visitor experience while supporting better management of tourist flows.

    The new fee schedule establishes clear categories: private site visits (excluding the Waitukubuli National Trail) will cost US$8 per entry, while daily passes for broader access will be priced at US$20. The government indicated that pricing for weekly passes remains under development and will be announced separately.

  • Tourism minister: Mas Domnik and WCMF 2025 bring joint revenue of over 69 million to country

    Tourism minister: Mas Domnik and WCMF 2025 bring joint revenue of over 69 million to country

    Dominica’s Minister of Tourism Denise Charles-Pemberton has revealed spectacular economic results from the island’s 2025 cultural festivities, announcing that Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival collectively injected approximately $69.6 million into the national economy. The substantial financial impact was disclosed during Friday’s official launch ceremony for Mas Domnik 2026, highlighting the growing significance of cultural tourism in Dominica’s development strategy.

    The minister emphasized that these cultural events have become powerful economic drivers, supporting thousands of jobs while stimulating business activity and ensuring substantial income distribution nationwide. “When our culture moves, Dominica moves, when our creatives thrive, our people thrive,” Charles-Pemberton declared, capturing the symbiotic relationship between cultural expression and economic prosperity.

    Looking ahead to Carnival 2026, scheduled to commence on January 10th, authorities promise an enhanced experience with particular emphasis on traditional masquerade for both the opening celebrations and national parade. The event will return to Windsor Park Sports Stadium, designated as “Carnival City,” providing a secure, comfortable, and centralized venue for performers and spectators alike. The capital city of Roseau will transform into a vibrant hub featuring designated chill zones, entertainment pockets, and extensive offerings of local cuisine, crafts, and music.

    Complementing the main events, an extensive calendar of fringe activities and village masquerades will ensure continuous entertainment, demanding what the minister described as boundless energy from participants. “From sunrise to sundown is pure ‘Sewo’,” Charles-Pemberton noted, invoking the local term for festive celebration.

    In a special recognition ceremony, the Ministry of Tourism and Discover Dominica Authority honored Mr. Darnley Guye as the Mas Domnik 2026 Personality of the Year. This accolade celebrates Guye’s extraordinary five-decade contribution to Carnival through costume design, parade organization, craftsmanship, and leadership. The minister praised Guye as a foundational figure who “carried this culture long before many of us even touched the road,” acknowledging his role in shaping the contemporary festival experience. This recognition follows last year’s tribute to the late Frankie ‘Krazy T’ Bellot, maintaining the tradition of honoring cultural architects.

  • Scott’s Head Reunion and Enhancement Committee elects new executive, rolls out plans for Christmas and beyond

    Scott’s Head Reunion and Enhancement Committee elects new executive, rolls out plans for Christmas and beyond

    The Scott’s Head Reunion and Enhancement Committee has formally constituted itself as an independent organization following the election of its executive board, marking a significant milestone for community development in Dominica. With leadership spanning four countries—the United Kingdom, United States, Virgin Islands, and Dominica—the committee embodies a transnational commitment to regional improvement.

    President Jeff Bellot leads a geographically diverse team including Vice President Cheryl Adams, Secretary Deborah Destouches, Treasurer Celia Tavernier, and Public Relations Officer Ivan ‘Ivoo’ Nicholas. Additional key members comprise Michael Junny Nicholas, Joanne Bleau, Selwin John Lewis, Julius Brown, and Heather Nicholas Jervier.

    Building upon what organizers describe as an exceptionally successful pilot reunion in June 2025, the committee is now preparing for a comprehensive Parish of St. Mark Reunion in 2027. This expanded event will incorporate communities across Soufriere, Scott’s Head, Gallion, and Petit Bagatelle through collaborative partnerships with all relevant stakeholders.

    The committee’s immediate focus centers on an ambitious Christmas Village scheduled from December 20, 2025, through January 2, 2026. The program features extensive nightly holiday light displays from 6 PM to midnight, alongside traditional dominoes tournaments, bingo competitions, nostalgic Christmas games, family movie nights, and carol performances by local church choirs.

    The festivities will culminate in a grand raffle on Christmas Day with premium prizes including smart televisions, kitchen appliances, professional tool sets, and gift vouchers. Children’s activities will include dedicated raffles, complimentary toys, snacks, and age-appropriate games accompanied by live music performances.

    Proceeds from these events will directly fund critical community infrastructure projects. Priority initiatives include providing secure trash bins to every Scott’s Head household to combat littering and constructing public restroom facilities in the town center to serve both residents and visitors. The committee has additionally announced plans for a praise and worship gathering during Easter 2026.

    The organization is actively seeking financial support from individuals and institutions committed to environmental preservation, aligning with Dominica’s identity as the ‘Nature Isle.’ Interested parties can connect with the committee through their official Facebook page ‘Scott’s Head’ to contribute or obtain further information about their comprehensive community enhancement programs.

  • Skerrit calls for review and restructure of the Dominica’s youth business trust

    Skerrit calls for review and restructure of the Dominica’s youth business trust

    In a significant policy address, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has declared comprehensive reforms for the Dominica Youth Business Trust (DYBT), calling for its fundamental restructuring after 21 years of operation. Speaking at the Trust’s 21st Graduation and Awards Ceremony at the State House Conference Centre, Skerrit questioned whether the current DYBT model remains “fit for purpose” in today’s economic climate.

    The Prime Minister outlined several transformative measures scheduled for implementation in 2026. Most notably, he proposed doubling the maximum loan amount for young entrepreneurs from $20,000 to at least $40,000 per applicant, arguing that current funding levels often provide only “half or a third” of the capital needed to properly launch a business venture.

    Skerrit also announced dramatic reductions in interest rates, criticizing the current 6-9% rates as “too high, especially for start-up businesses.” He committed to capping rates at no more than 3% through negotiations with financial institutions and extending this same rate ceiling to the AID Bank for its borrowers.

    The restructuring plan includes significant organizational changes: upgrading the coordinator position to Chief Executive Officer, enhancing staff qualifications and compensation, and reviewing the Board of Trustees to grant them “greater flexibility and authority.”

    In a bold financial move, the government will clear approximately $500,000 in existing debts owed by program participants, effectively providing a fresh start for both the Trust and its beneficiaries. Additionally, the Prime Minister pledged enhanced support for business plan development, ensuring that graduates receive assistance in modifying proposals to meet financial institution requirements rather than facing outright rejection.

    These sweeping changes represent the most substantial overhaul of the youth entrepreneurship program in its two-decade history, signaling the government’s renewed commitment to fostering young business talent in Dominica.

  • STATEMENT: A new dawn in St. Vincent – Dominica Freedom Party hails NDP’s landmark win

    STATEMENT: A new dawn in St. Vincent – Dominica Freedom Party hails NDP’s landmark win

    In a landmark political transformation, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has achieved a decisive electoral victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, ending nearly a quarter-century in opposition. The December 2, 2025 general elections resulted in a resounding mandate for Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday’s leadership, signaling a profound public desire for national redirection.

    The Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) has extended formal congratulations to the victorious NDP, recognizing the election as demonstrating robust democratic engagement. The DFP particularly highlighted the exemplary conduct of the electoral process, noting its transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic standards that regional political movements should emulate.

    This political transition represents more than a routine power transfer—it embodies the collective aspiration of Vincentians for substantive change and renewed governance approaches. The NDP’s return to government after 25 years provides a clear five-year mandate to implement its national vision.

    Of particular significance was the notable participation of youth voters, whose active engagement in the democratic process drew specific commendation from the DFP. The party expressed hope that this civic involvement would inspire younger generations throughout the Caribbean region.

    The DFP anticipates strengthened collaboration with the NDP through the Caribbean Democrat Union (CDU), focusing on reinforcing democratic institutions and advancing governance models centered on accountability and public service. The statement concluded with an appeal for national unity as St. Vincent and the Grenadines embarks on its new developmental trajectory.

  • Miss Dominica 2026 contestants revealed

    Miss Dominica 2026 contestants revealed

    Dominica has officially introduced the six contenders who will vie for the prestigious Miss Dominica crown in 2026. The announcement came during the vibrant launch ceremony of Mas Domnik 2026 over the weekend, setting the stage for the highly anticipated pageant scheduled for February 12, 2026, at Windsor Park Sports Stadium.

    The diverse group of contestants represents various communities across the island, each bringing unique advocacy platforms. The delegation includes 22-year-old Ardel Laurent from Mahaut, championing ‘Embracing confidence through sustainable style,’ and 24-year-old Dainisha Eusebe of Grandbay, advocating for ‘Animal Welfare: Humane treatment of animals.’

    Daina Graneau, 23, representing Atkinson/Kalinago Territory, focuses on ‘The hidden victims: Protecting children in violent homes,’ while 21-year-old Darna Eugene, also from Grandbay, promotes ‘From silence to strength: Empowering lives, inspiring hope.’ The contingent includes 24-year-old Sheraine Mills of Jimmit and St Joseph, addressing ‘Breaking the stigma, empowering women to confidently confront PCOS,’ and 19-year-old Sanchia Tyson from Crayfish River in Kalinago Territory, emphasizing ‘Roots and Radiance—Empowering both Kalinago and Dominican women through cultural identity.’

    Charlene White-Christian, Chairperson of the Queen Show Organizing Committee, revealed this year’s theme as ‘Bouyon Bloom’—a celebration honoring Dominica’s distinctive bouyon music genre and the artists who perpetuate this cultural tradition. ‘Bouyon is more than music,’ White-Christian declared. ‘It is the heartbeat of our island, a rhythm that tells our stories, celebrates our culture and connects Dominicans across generations.’

    The thematic framework aims to inspire contestants while paying tribute to the creativity and spirit of bouyon artists. According to organizers, the candidates have already commenced intensive training programs featuring transformative workshops in stage presence, professional walking techniques, speech communication, personal development, and cultural refinement.

    White-Christian expressed confidence in the contestants’ preparation, noting their demonstrated ‘passion, discipline and drive’ that promise to deliver a spectacular showcase on pageant night. The months leading to the February event will see these ambassadors undergo comprehensive development, blending cultural preservation with contemporary pageantry standards.

  • St. Lucians take it to the polls today

    St. Lucians take it to the polls today

    The Eastern Caribbean nation of St. Lucia commenced voting operations on Monday as citizens cast their ballots in a closely watched general election that will determine the country’s political trajectory. The electoral contest pits incumbent Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) against Allen Chastanet’s United Workers Party (UWP) in a democratic exercise that has captured regional attention.

    Prime Minister Pierre, 71, strategically called the election nearly a year before the constitutional deadline, expressing confidence that his administration would not only retain but potentially expand upon the 13-seat majority secured in the 2021 elections. In his final pre-election address via social media, Pierre emphasized collective progress and democratic participation: “The only way to ensure continued progress for all is to put the X next to the STAR,” referencing his party’s symbol.

    Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet, 65, mounted a spirited campaign focused on regional political trends and national unity. Addressing supporters in Choiseul during the final rally, Chastanet highlighted the electoral successes of other center-right parties across the Caribbean, noting particularly the recent victories of “yellow” affiliated parties in Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    Both leaders invoked divine blessing for the nation throughout their campaigns, with Chastanet specifically calling for “peace, wisdom and protection” during the voting process. The election represents a critical juncture for St. Lucia’s development agenda, with both parties presenting distinct visions for economic growth, social development, and regional integration within the CARICOM framework.

    The electoral process unfolded under careful observation, with citizens determining whether to continue Pierre’s administration or return Chastanet, who previously served as prime minister from 2016 to 2021. The outcome will significantly influence St. Lucia’s policy direction on tourism development, infrastructure projects, and foreign relations within the hemisphere.

  • EU-funded grant call for submissions: Social protection and nutrition for sustainable agri–food systems in Caribbean

    EU-funded grant call for submissions: Social protection and nutrition for sustainable agri–food systems in Caribbean

    The European Union, through its EUCan Facility, has unveiled a significant funding initiative titled ‘Nourishing Futures Together,’ specifically targeting Eastern Caribbean nations. This program aims to transform food systems by addressing critical challenges in social protection, nutrition access, and agricultural sustainability.

    Eligible organizations in Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines are invited to submit proposals that align with three core objectives. These include strengthening social protection programs for agricultural workers and small enterprises, improving access to nutritionally adequate diets through behavioral change initiatives, and implementing circular economy models to enhance local food system sustainability.

    The funding structure offers two distinct pathways: Lot 1 provides grants between €50,000 and €100,000 for projects focusing on social protection and nutrition access, while Lot 2 offers larger grants up to €150,000 for initiatives promoting social innovation and circular economy approaches in food systems. Notably, the program requires no co-funding, covering 100% of eligible project costs.

    This initiative specifically encourages participation from women and youth, seeking to increase their engagement in sustainable food production and distribution. Both individual organizations and collaborative consortia may apply, provided they meet the established eligibility criteria. The program represents a comprehensive effort to build climate resilience while addressing food security and social inclusion challenges in vulnerable Caribbean communities.

  • Jazz Vesper 2025 set to ring in Christmas spirit

    Jazz Vesper 2025 set to ring in Christmas spirit

    The Bethesda Methodist Congregation, in collaboration with Wesley High School, has unveiled plans for its third annual “Advent Jazz Vesper 2025,” creating anticipation for an evening of musical celebration embracing the Christmas spirit. Scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., the event will take place at the historic Bethesda Methodist Chapel on Cross Street in Roseau, Dominica.

    This year’s musical extravaganza promises a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring an impressive roster of performers including the acclaimed Sisserou Singers, solo artists Akim Ismael and Janae Jackson, vocalists Shanice, Shalina, Royette, and Starr, musician Phael Lander, performer Shadrach Ogbonna, the Grace Dancers, alongside the combined choral forces of the Bethesda Choir and Wesley High School Choir.

    Event organizers describe the program as an inspirational fusion of traditional Christmas melodies reimagined through jazz interpretations, creating a reflective atmosphere that captures the essential themes of hope, love, and enlightenment characteristic of the Advent season. The carefully curated performance aims to provide both entertainment and spiritual contemplation as attendees prepare for the holiday period.

    In keeping with the event’s charitable mission, all generated proceeds will be allocated to support educational initiatives and programs at Wesley High School. Ticket availability has been announced at two convenient locations: the Wesley High School administrative office and the Methodist Church Office, both situated in Roseau.

    The community is encouraged to reserve the date and participate in what promises to be a memorable celebration of musical excellence and seasonal joy, welcoming families and friends to share in this annual tradition that combines cultural performance with philanthropic purpose.