Carib Scope

标签： Dominican Republic

多米尼加共和国

  • Return! Cases of chikungunya are being reported: practical tips for prevention

    Return! Cases of chikungunya are being reported: practical tips for prevention

    Health authorities have confirmed three imported cases of chikungunya virus from Cuba, raising concerns about potential transmission risks in the Dominican Republic. The Ministry of Public Health issued the alert last Thursday, identifying the Aedes aegypti mosquito as the primary vector responsible for spreading this arboviral disease alongside dengue and Zika.

    The current epidemiological situation is particularly concerning due to seasonal rainfall patterns that create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Stagnant water accumulation in urban and residential areas has significantly increased the proliferation potential of disease-carrying insects, creating heightened vulnerability among the local population.

    According to World Health Organization guidelines, effective mosquito habitat management remains the cornerstone of prevention strategies. Health officials emphasize that eliminating breeding sites requires a multidisciplinary approach spanning public health, environmental management, and community education sectors.

    Recommended preventive measures include:
    – Removing or properly sealing outdoor water containers including flower pots, bottles, and storage vessels
    – Installing protective covers on domestic water tanks and storage reservoirs
    – Implementing proper waste management practices with sealed plastic bags and covered trash receptacles
    – Maintaining clear drainage systems to prevent water stagnation
    – Installing window and door screens to create physical barriers against mosquitoes

    Health authorities stress that community participation is essential for successful mosquito population control and reducing disease transmission risks.

  • Flights are operating normally in the Dominican Republic after Airbus’ warning about solar radiation

    Flights are operating normally in the Dominican Republic after Airbus’ warning about solar radiation

    Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Despite a worldwide safety advisory issued by Airbus concerning potential solar radiation interference with aircraft systems, Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom) has confirmed uninterrupted operations across its entire airport network. Both domestic and international flights continue to function normally without significant disruptions.

    Luis José López, Director of Corporate Communications at Aerodom, stated that all scheduled flights for Saturday operated according to plan, with arrivals and departures at Las Américas International Airport proceeding smoothly. While acknowledging the possibility of minor delays in coming hours, López emphasized that Aerodom is maintaining close collaboration with aviation authorities and airline partners to minimize potential passenger impact.

    The airport operator has enhanced its real-time communication protocols with airline representatives and operational teams to ensure rapid coordination and transparent passenger notifications if conditions evolve.

    The global alert originated from Airbus’s identification of newly discovered risks that extreme solar radiation events could potentially disrupt flight control computers in specific aircraft models. The manufacturer issued urgent maintenance recommendations for approximately 6,000 A319, A320, and A321 aircraft worldwide following an October 30 incident involving a JetBlue A320 on the Cancun-Newark route. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tampa after experiencing sudden altitude loss.

    Recent developments indicate that thousands of affected aircraft have already resumed normal service. The majority required only straightforward software updates, while approximately 900 older units need hardware replacements. French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot reported that updates have been successfully completed on over 5,000 aircraft with minimal complications, with fewer than 100 aircraft remaining pending—many of which have received overnight software implementations.

  • Which provinces register the most deaths in traffic accidents?

    Which provinces register the most deaths in traffic accidents?

    The Dominican Republic faces a severe public health emergency as traffic accidents continue to claim thousands of lives annually, establishing themselves as one of the nation’s leading causes of premature death. According to comprehensive data from the National Statistics Office (ONE), the country’s traffic fatality rate reached 20.02 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2024, with dramatic variations observed across different provinces.

    Statistical analysis reveals troubling geographical disparities, with Samaná province recording the most alarming fatality rate at 44.96 per 100,000 inhabitants, resulting in over 35 traffic-related deaths in 2024 alone. La Altagracia and San José de Ocoa followed with concerning rates of 41.49 and 40.31 respectively, each averaging approximately 32 annual fatalities. In contrast, the province of Santo Domingo (8.31) and the National District (9.92) demonstrated significantly lower incidence rates.

    The human toll extends beyond mortality statistics, with the Permanent Road Safety Observatory (Opsevi) documenting 104,466 traffic-related injuries as of August this year. San José de Ocoa recorded the highest injury rate at 451.08 per 100,000 inhabitants, followed closely by the National District (446.19) and Puerto Plata (344.58).

    Demographic analysis reveals disturbing patterns in victim profiles. Between 2020-2024, the country averaged 1,728 fatal traffic accidents annually, with males accounting for a disproportionate 87.91% of fatalities compared to 12.09% for females. Particularly concerning is the concentration of deaths among youth, with 53% of 2024’s fatalities occurring in the 15-34 age demographic, highlighting their extreme vulnerability on Dominican roads.

  • Larimar City & Resort promotes the country’s first “Smart City”

    Larimar City & Resort promotes the country’s first “Smart City”

    Spanish infrastructure firm CLERHP has officially inaugurated the initial phase of Larimar City & Resort, marking the Dominican Republic’s inaugural Smart City development. The landmark ceremony, attended by over 300 distinguished guests including government officials, business leaders, and international investors, coincided with National Larimar Day celebrations honoring the country’s unique precious stone.

    Located in La Otra Banda sector of Punta Cana, this groundbreaking urban development spans 3.6 million square meters with an initial investment commitment of €600 million. The project enjoys formal endorsement from the Dominican government and holds placement within ProDominicana’s official investment portfolio.

    Juan Andrés Romero, CEO of Larimar City & Resort and President of CLERHP, emphasized the project’s transformative vision: “Larimar represents a paradigm shift in urban conception—merging innovation, sustainability, and strategic foresight. This initiative demonstrates our capacity to lead globally significant urban developments after more than a decade of dedicated research and planning.”

    The inauguration ceremony featured traditional ribbon-cutting protocols and included a philanthropic component where the Funeyca Foundation received corporate donations supporting youth cultural programs in the Punta Cana region. The event concluded with a sunset reception at Farallón de Punta Cana, attended by Spanish Embassy representative Pilar Serret Murga and local mayor Alexander Rodríguez, with ceremonial blessings provided by Bishop Jesús Castro Marte.

    Dubbed “The Jewel of the Caribbean,” Larimar City & Resort incorporates sustainable mobility systems, intelligent resource management, and extensive green spaces covering 700,000 square meters. The development will feature Mediterranean-inspired architecture, three kilometers of waterfront promenades, artificial beach areas with lakes and pools, and diverse residential options across six planned phases.

    Construction commenced in January 2025 with foundational work on Prime Towers, with Phase One completion anticipated for 2026-27. The project is projected to generate approximately 1,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities, signaling substantial economic and social impact for the La Altagracia province.

  • China and the Dominican Republic: an alliance that drives trade, investment and technology

    China and the Dominican Republic: an alliance that drives trade, investment and technology

    SANTO DOMINGO – Chinese Ambassador Chen Luning articulated a vision of strengthened bilateral cooperation during a reception for Dominican journalists at the Chinese Embassy last Friday. Framing the relationship as a cornerstone of China’s regional strategy, the ambassador detailed significant advancements across trade, investment, and agriculture since diplomatic relations were formalized seven years ago.

    Ambassador Luning emphasized that the Dominican Republic is viewed in Beijing as both a trusted friend and a pivotal partner for expanding China’s presence in the Caribbean and Central America. He reported that mutual political trust has consistently deepened, creating a stable foundation for collaboration guided by the principles of “mutual respect, equal treatment, and mutually beneficial cooperation.”

    Economically, China firmly holds its position as the Dominican Republic’s second-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $5 billion. Notably, trade volume saw a 2.3% increase in just the first three quarters of 2025. This growth is propelled by heightened interest from Chinese manufacturers, with several companies establishing operations in free trade zones in Santiago, San Pedro de Macorís, and Las Américas. The ambassador cited the nation’s political stability and investment-friendly policies as key drivers.

    Agricultural cooperation represents another strategic pillar. A flagship project with Bioarroz in Bonao, where Chinese technicians are introducing hybrid rice seeds and advanced cultivation techniques in collaboration with the Dominican Ministry of Agriculture, has yielded “good results” over its four-year duration. Opportunities for further collaboration in fruit, coffee, and cocoa production, alongside the introduction of Chinese agricultural machinery, were also highlighted.

    Beyond commerce, China’s contributions to Dominican public welfare were underscored, most visibly through the donation of 120 ambulances that have “effectively strengthened emergency response capabilities” across the country.

    Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Luning positioned this bilateral alliance within China’s broader global economic framework. He outlined China’s monumental growth, noting its $20 trillion GDP and its role as the top exporter of automobiles, lithium batteries, and renewable energy components. He also highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative’s impact in Latin America, having generated over one million jobs through 200 infrastructure projects, with regional trade ballooning to $500 billion.

  • Traffic fatalities continue to rise; the Dominican Republic registers an average of 2,000 deaths annually

    Traffic fatalities continue to rise; the Dominican Republic registers an average of 2,000 deaths annually

    The Dominican Republic is confronting a severe road safety crisis as official statistics reveal persistently high traffic fatality rates, with conflicting data between government agencies highlighting the complexity of the problem.

    According to the National Statistics Office (ONE), the country recorded an annual average of 1,728 fatal traffic accidents at the scene between 2020-2024, resulting in approximately 8,639 deaths. However, the Central Electoral Board (JCE) reports a significantly higher figure of 10,139 traffic-related fatalities during the same period.

    The data reveals a troubling upward trajectory in road deaths since 2022. Death certificates document 1,638 fatalities in 2020, rising to 1,846 in 2021, then climbing to 2,079 in 2022, 2,204 in 2023, and reaching 2,372 deaths in 2024. The alarming trend continues into 2025, with the JCE civil registry already recording 2,096 traffic fatalities this year.

    A critical distinction in data collection methodology explains part of the discrepancy between agencies. The ONE figures primarily capture immediate fatalities at accident scenes, while cases where victims initially survive but later succumb to injuries in medical facilities are categorized under different causes of death.

    Motorcyclists emerge as the most vulnerable demographic, accounting for a staggering 70.48% of all traffic accident fatalities. Pedestrians represent the second-most affected group, comprising 13% of total deaths.

    Historical data analysis identifies four peak periods in traffic fatalities over the past decade and a half: 2010 (1,959 deaths), 2016 (1,804 deaths), 2019 (1,876 deaths), and 2024 (2,372 deaths according to JCE records). These statistics, compiled with information from the General Directorate of Traffic and Land Transport Safety, underscore the urgent need for comprehensive road safety interventions in the Dominican Republic.

  • Worrying: Political scientist asserts that DICRIM has become distorted and is generating fear among the population

    Worrying: Political scientist asserts that DICRIM has become distorted and is generating fear among the population

    Prominent Dominican political scientist and left-wing leader Francisco Miguel Herrera has issued a forceful call for the comprehensive reform of the National Police’s Central Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DICRIM), characterizing the agency as fundamentally “distorted” from its original purpose. Herrera, a recognized social activist from Francomacorisano, contends that what was established as a scientific investigative body operating under Public Prosecutor oversight has transformed into an institution perceived by citizens as repressive and abusive.

    The agency’s original mandate centered on conducting methodical, evidence-based criminal investigations under prosecutorial direction, with specific responsibilities including crime scene preservation, evidence collection, and suspect identification to ensure judicial due process. However, Herrera presents compelling statistics demonstrating a severe credibility crisis: 66.5% of Dominicans identify crime as the nation’s primary concern, while 64.5% report avoiding leaving home due to safety fears—despite official reports showing a 38% reduction in robberies between 2022 and 2023.

    Herrera emphasizes that the current public perception directly contradicts institutional objectives, with DICRIM’s presence generating fear rather than security. He argues that the directorate requires immediate reorientation toward its foundational mission through several concrete measures: implementing scientific rigor in criminal investigations, ensuring operational alignment with public interest, analyzing criminal behavior within police ranks, establishing coordination protocols with relevant ministries and social organizations, and creating incentive systems for credible informants.

    The left-wing leader maintains that the National Police leadership bears responsibility for restoring DICRIM’s original function as a crime-solving entity rather than what he describes as an instrument of fear and repression, asserting that contemporary Dominican society demands this fundamental institutional mindset shift.

  • Protest Nurses raise their voices for their demands: “We are not asking for anything unreasonable.”

    Protest Nurses raise their voices for their demands: “We are not asking for anything unreasonable.”

    Nurses across the Dominican Republic have intensified their campaign for better working conditions and fair compensation, staging organized demonstrations outside key healthcare facilities. Members of the National Union of Dominican Nursing Services (UNASED) gathered in front of the Maternidad Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia hospital, holding banners and voicing frustrations over what they describe as years of governmental neglect regarding their professional demands.

    The protests highlight a significant gap between political promises and tangible outcomes. Union representatives specifically referenced commitments made by Dr. Mario Lama, executive director of the National Health Service (SNS), who had pledged to reclassify 1,000 nursing positions from assistant to bachelor’s degree level within the year. However, participants revealed that only approximately 200 of these reclassifications have been implemented to date—a mere 25% of the promised figure distributed across three separate installments.

    This incomplete fulfillment has left many university-educated nurses in financial distress. Protesters shared accounts of having pursued their education under considerable hardship, only to remain classified and compensated as assistants rather than licensed professionals. They emphasized that current salary structures fail to cover basic living expenses, particularly the family basket of goods which exceeds 47,000 Dominican pesos.

    Beyond salary increases, the nurses’ comprehensive list of demands includes the streamlining of pension processes, substantial improvements to hospital working conditions and staff safety protocols, and the construction of a dedicated clubhouse for nursing personnel. Many of these issues, they noted, date back to the mid-1990s.

    Union leadership has issued a clear warning that their demonstrations will continue to escalate in both frequency and intensity until government authorities engage in meaningful dialogue and implement concrete solutions. The movement reflects broader concerns about healthcare system sustainability and the valuation of essential medical workers in the country.

  • Have you made plans yet? This is the weather forecast for this weekend

    Have you made plans yet? This is the weather forecast for this weekend

    Meteorological authorities in the Dominican Republic are forecasting a significant increase in precipitation patterns beginning this afternoon and extending through Monday, driven by an approaching atmospheric trough interacting with moisture-rich Atlantic winds. According to expert analysis from meteorological specialist Jean Suriel, this weather system will generate moderate to heavy rainfall across extensive regions of the country, particularly during afternoon and nighttime hours.

    The persistent trough, combined with sustained humid winds, will maintain elevated precipitation probabilities throughout the weekend period. Suriel emphasized that while these conditions will produce substantial rainfall, the meteorological setup does not currently indicate risks of severe flooding within Dominican territory. The analyst did note that developing wind gusts may occur in coming days as a secondary effect of high-pressure system influences.

    Concurrently, Cold Front Number 8 is tracking toward the Bahamas and Cuba regions but is projected to remain north of Dominican airspace. While this frontal system will not directly impact the nation, its positioning will contribute to notably cooler atmospheric conditions during overnight and early morning hours nationwide. Meteorological monitoring continues as the trough system evolves, with particular attention to precipitation distribution patterns and potential weather-related impacts.

  • Repatriation operations Meeting with Haiti: Migration officials assure that the human rights of immigrants are respected

    Repatriation operations Meeting with Haiti: Migration officials assure that the human rights of immigrants are respected

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, Director General of Migration (DGM), convened high-level discussions with consular officials from the Haitian Embassy. The meeting, attended by intelligence and migration control directors, focused on operational protocols governing migrant interdiction and detention center management.

    Minister Counselor Ralph Giraldo Raphael led the Haitian delegation during talks that centered on the strict application of General Migration Law 285-04 and its implementing regulations. Vice Admiral Lee Ballester provided comprehensive assurances that all migration operations are conducted within this legal framework, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to procedural compliance.

    The migration authority chief reiterated that DGM personnel, along with supporting military and police forces, consistently prioritize the protection of human rights for immigrants in irregular status. He further expressed the DGM’s readiness to maintain ongoing dialogue and bilateral cooperation with Haitian authorities on matters within the institution’s jurisdiction.

    Addressing the broader regional context, officials highlighted the Dominican Republic’s critical role in ensuring effective and transparent immigration controls aligned with national, bilateral, and international agreements. This discussion occurred against the backdrop of projected record deportation numbers for 2025, following directives from the National Security Council.

    Operational details revealed that repatriation processes continue through established border crossings at Dajabón, Elías Piña, Jimaní, and Pedernales during regular operating hours. These procedures involve coordinated efforts between DGM Migration Control personnel, Dominican armed forces, and state security agencies to ensure orderly transfers to Haitian authorities.

    The Haitian delegation included Dr. Hipólito Dolis from Legal and Immigration Affairs, Consul General Stephen Junior Cherefant based in Santiago de los Caballeros, Consul Fito Zephieren, and Vice Consul Marie Danielle Lundi. The DGM was represented by General Pilot Juan Carlos Vicente Pérez and Colonel Manuel de Jesús Carrasco Guerrero.