Carib Scope

标签： Grenada

格林纳达

  • Dr Adrian Joseph nominated as NNP Caretaker for St George North-West

    Dr Adrian Joseph nominated as NNP Caretaker for St George North-West

    In a significant political development, the New National Party (NNP) has officially designated Dr. Adrian Joseph as its caretaker representative for the St George North West constituency. This strategic nomination occurred during a well-attended assembly that signaled both renewal and continuity within the party’s leadership structure.

    Dr. Joseph’s selection positions him to contend for the parliamentary seat previously held by the Right Honorable Dr. Keith Mitchell, as the NNP prepares for upcoming general elections with a emerging generation of leadership. A distinguished public servant and diplomat, Dr. Joseph introduces a measured, professional, and service-focused approach to political representation, rooted in extensive community involvement and national service experience.

    The nomination received enthusiastic endorsement from both party delegates and constituents, demonstrating substantial confidence in Dr. Joseph’s capacity to represent St George North West with both integrity and innovative perspective.

    Honorable Emmalin Pierre, Member of Parliament, Political Leader of the New National Party and Opposition Leader, characterized the nomination as an element of a carefully orchestrated and disciplined transition strategy intended to fortify the party’s future readiness. “This development exemplifies a forward-thinking party that prioritizes national interests,” Pierre stated. “Dr. Joseph embodies the leadership qualities we seek—competence, pragmatism, and service orientation. Our current objective involves continuing to assemble a robust team capable of delivering results for Grenadian citizens while respecting the exemplary standards established by Dr. Mitchell.”

    The nomination gathering additionally functioned as an occasion for recognition and appreciation of Dr. Keith Mitchell, Grenada’s longest-serving Prime Minister and NNP founder. With Dr. Joseph’s appointment, Dr. Mitchell concludes his transition from electoral politics following decades of exemplary service to Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.

    Dr. Mitchell’s monumental contributions to national development, party establishment, and regional leadership received widespread acknowledgment during proceedings. Although he will not pursue re-election, Dr. Mitchell will maintain an advisory role as a trusted counselor and senior statesman, providing guidance informed by extensive experience and profound institutional knowledge.

    Party representatives emphasized that “This constitutes not an conclusion but a strategically managed transition informed by experience and accountability. Dr. Mitchell established a solid institutional foundation. Emmalin Pierre now advances this legacy forward. Dr. Adrian Joseph introduces his distinctive leadership approach and dedication to serving St George North West constituents.”

    The New National Party approaches this new chapter with unified purpose, confidence in its leadership direction, and concentrated emphasis on delivering opportunity, stability, and effective governance for all Grenadians.

  • Grenville Co-operative Credit Union vacancies

    Grenville Co-operative Credit Union vacancies

    The Grenville Co-operative Credit Union (GCCU) Ltd has announced two executive-level vacancies as part of its organizational strengthening initiative. The financial institution is actively recruiting for both a Credit and Recoveries Manager and an HR Manager position to enhance its operational capabilities and service delivery framework.

    For the Credit and Recoveries Manager role, GCCU requires an experienced financial professional capable of leading departmental operations with emphasis on portfolio quality and delinquency reduction below the 5% industry benchmark. The position demands comprehensive oversight of credit risk management policies, staff leadership, and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities include managing loan security portfolios, ensuring IFRS compliance for collateral valuation, and maintaining current knowledge of economic trends affecting risk strategies. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in finance or related field, credit management certification, and minimum five years’ credit union sector experience.

    Simultaneously, the HR Manager position requires a strategic human resources expert to develop and implement comprehensive HR infrastructure. This role encompasses strategic planning, performance management systems, compensation structure development, and organizational culture building. The ideal candidate will possess a master’s degree in HRM or related discipline with five years’ senior-level experience, or equivalent combination of education and practical expertise. International HR certification is considered advantageous.

    Both positions require submission of application materials including cover letter, CV, and professional references to J’S HR Consultancy at the specified email addresses. The Credit and Recoveries Manager application deadline is February 2, 2026, while the HR Manager position closes January 22, 2026, with both deadlines subject to revision at the organization’s discretion.

  • Government of Grenada makes significant investment in COMS-PAN

    Government of Grenada makes significant investment in COMS-PAN

    The Grenadian government has launched a substantial cultural investment initiative exceeding EC$650,000 through its Community Steelpan Programme (COMS-PAN), signaling a strategic commitment to youth development and cultural preservation across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. The program officially commenced in Carriacou on January 16, 2026, with targeted participation of 20 youth per parish in selected communities.

    Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture Minister Adrian Thomas characterized the investment as foundational to Grenada’s cultural future, emphasizing that national development extends beyond physical infrastructure. “Investment doesn’t always refer to roads, bridges or buildings. We must also invest in music and culture,” Minister Thomas stated. He compared the creative economy’s potential to “a volcano, just waiting to erupt,” noting its capacity to generate foreign exchange comparable to traditional exports like nutmeg and cocoa.

    The government’s vision includes achieving self-sufficiency in steelpan production and maintenance. While initial instruments were sourced from Trinidad, Minister Thomas outlined plans to develop local expertise: “We want to develop our own tuners. We do not want to continue depending on others. We want to build our own capacity.”

    Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs Minister Tevin Andrews welcomed the program as tangible action against cultural decline. “This is not lip service. We recognise the challenges facing our culture, and while some say it is dying, we are taking deliberate action to revive it,” Minister Andrews asserted. He expressed aspirations to reestablish steelpan music across communities as historically present in L’Esterre, Harvey Vale, Six Roads, Mt Royal and Bogles.

    Chief Cultural Officer Kelvin Jacob explained that COMS-PAN addresses systemic challenges including instrument accessibility and the absence of structured musical ensembles. “The goal is to expand community steelpan ensembles as hubs for youth development, cultural celebration and sustainable growth,” Jacob noted, adding that the vision includes training arrangers, tuners and manufacturers to ensure long-term cultural sustainability.

    The program will operate from the Mt Royal panhouse, home of Shakespeare Mas, with weekly classes scheduled Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-7 PM.

  • Sale of ornamentals at Ashenden Propagation Station

    Sale of ornamentals at Ashenden Propagation Station

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry has officially announced the commencement of ornamental plant sales for the year 2026. According to the Agronomy Division, the sales operation will initiate on Monday, January 26th, 2026, at the Ashenden Propagation Station.

    The ministry has established specific operational protocols for the event, confirming that onsite payment facilities will be available exclusively during designated hours. Prospective purchasers may complete transactions at the station between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM daily throughout the sales period.

    This annual event represents a significant initiative by the agricultural authorities to support horticultural enthusiasts and promote botanical diversity within the region. The Ashenden Propagation Station, known for its extensive collection of ornamental species, serves as a central distribution point for quality-assured plants.

    The ministry’s announcement provides advance notice to allow adequate preparation for both commercial buyers and gardening enthusiasts. Such coordinated sales events help regulate plant distribution while ensuring quality control and phytosanitary standards are maintained.

    NOW Grenada, while reporting this official announcement, maintains its editorial policy of non-responsibility for contributor opinions or statements. The news outlet provides reporting mechanisms for content concerns through its established abuse reporting system.

  • GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    Grenada is strategically amplifying its status as a leading marine tourism destination through an ambitious portfolio of sailing and sportfishing events scheduled for its 2026 nautical season. The island nation’s comprehensive calendar, featuring competitive regattas, international rallies, and cultural heritage celebrations, demonstrates sustained expansion within this high-value tourism sector.

    The archipelago’s growing appeal within global sailing communities stems from its advantageous natural geography, state-of-the-art marina infrastructure, and established reputation as a secure and welcoming Caribbean port. With deep-water harbors, protected anchorages, and seamless connectivity between Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, the tri-island destination has become increasingly favored by both competitive sailors and leisure mariners.

    Season highlights include the Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament (January 25-30, 2026), which enters a transformative phase with Pure Grenada assuming title sponsorship for the first time. This tournament, maintaining over five decades of operation as one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious sportfishing competitions, continues to attract international anglers while promoting the islands’ rich marine heritage and premium visitor experiences.

    Grenada Sailing Week will run concurrently from January 25-30, with inaugural events hosted in Carriacou, highlighting the expanding role of the Sister Isles within the nation’s tourism framework. This event combines competitive racing with cultural activities, encouraging prolonged visitor stays and deeper community engagement.

    The Workboat Regatta (January 31-February 1) spotlights traditional seafaring culture, celebrating Grenada’s historic boat-building and racing traditions. Local sailors from coastal communities across all three islands compete in handcrafted vessels, preserving an authentic maritime legacy central to the destination’s cultural identity.

    February welcomes the Vikings Explorer Rally, featuring an international cruising fleet whose participants typically remain for extended periods. Their presence generates substantial economic benefits through marina activity, local business patronage, and cultural exchanges, demonstrating the significant multiplier effect of nautical tourism.

    Tourism officials emphasize the strategic importance of these events. Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, noted: ‘Our decision to become title sponsor reflects our commitment to strengthening the sportfishing sector while reinforcing Grenada’s standing as a serious maritime destination.’

    Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the GTA, added: ‘From international rallies to community-rooted regattas, the nautical sector delivers sustained value, visibility, and authenticity for the destination.’

    This coordinated 2026 nautical calendar represents a balanced approach to marine tourism development that honors heritage while pursuing international exposure and long-term growth. As planning already advances for the 2027 season, Grenada continues to enhance its maritime identity and consolidate its position within the global sailing and sportfishing landscape.

  • IMF releases 2025 Article IV Consultation Report on Grenada

    IMF releases 2025 Article IV Consultation Report on Grenada

    The Grenadian government has officially welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s conclusive 2025 Article IV Consultation Report, which received formal endorsement from the IMF Executive Board. This comprehensive assessment, initially conducted during an on-site mission to Grenada in October 2025, has now been fully published alongside a detailed Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) through IMF digital platforms and Grenada’s Ministry of Finance communication channels.

    The IMF’s evaluation presents an optimistic perspective on Grenada’s economic and fiscal direction, highlighting confidence in the nation’s near to medium-term growth prospects. This positive outlook is primarily driven by vigorous construction sector activity and the economy’s limited vulnerability to international trade volatilities.

    Critical findings from the Debt Sustainability Analysis affirm the continued sustainability of Grenada’s public debt, while acknowledging that the country’s debt distress rating—maintained since 2015—stems from unresolved external arrears with Trinidad and Tobago and Algeria. Grenadian authorities emphasized their ongoing good-faith negotiations to regularize these arrears and enhance the nation’s credit standing.

    Reaffirming its dedication to fiscal discipline, the government reiterated its commitment to the Fiscal Resilience Framework, which includes achieving a 60% debt-to-GDP benchmark by 2035. Concurrently, Grenada continues to advance strategic investment initiatives, notably Project Polaris, its flagship healthcare enhancement program.

    The administration remains steadfast in its pursuit of transparent economic governance and sustained collaboration with international financial institutions, including the IMF, to ensure sustainable and inclusive development across the Caribbean nation.

  • Riverbank Basketball Development Project launched

    Riverbank Basketball Development Project launched

    After years of training under inadequate conditions, young basketball enthusiasts in St David, Grenada, are witnessing a transformative development in their sporting landscape. The historic Riverbank grounds, once characterized by insufficient lighting and subpar facilities, are now the focal point of an ambitious multi-phase redevelopment initiative officially launched last Sunday.

    Spearheaded by the St David Basketball League in collaboration with the St David Parish Sports Council and the Grenada National Basketball Association, the Riverbank Basketball Development Project represents a comprehensive approach to sports infrastructure enhancement. Interim President Brian James highlighted the parish’s longstanding basketball competitiveness despite the absence of formal league structures, which previously forced athletes to seek training opportunities elsewhere under challenging circumstances.

    The project, scheduled for completion by September 2026, encompasses seven distinct phases featuring substantial infrastructure upgrades. These include complete court resurfacing, installation of new backboards, enhanced lighting systems, spectator seating for approximately 150 people, modernized washroom facilities, and a multifunctional community space accommodating media requirements.

    Beyond physical improvements, the initiative emphasizes human capital development through structured training programs for local coaches, referee certification courses, and equipment provision for grassroots basketball programs. Extensive community consultations with residents, youth representatives, and business stakeholders have ensured the project aligns with local needs and aspirations.

    Significant preparatory work has already been completed, including major cleanup operations supported by the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Solid Waste Management Authority, which removed derelict vehicles and cleared the site for construction.

    Senator Seville Francis, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, endorsed the project as exemplary of community-driven initiatives aligning with national development priorities. She emphasized sports’ proven effectiveness in building discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience among youth, noting that many national leaders began their journeys on community courts similar to Riverbank.

    The project aligns with the ministry’s 2023-2027 strategic mandate focusing on youth mobilization, training, activation, and opportunity creation. Senator Francis highlighted how deliberate investment and collaboration between government agencies, parish councils, and community leaders can generate substantial long-term social benefits.

    Justin Courtney, Chairperson of the St David Parish Sports Council, recognized Riverbank’s historical significance as a breeding ground for national cricket talent and expressed confidence that the renewed basketball focus would yield comparable success. The initiative has received endorsement from Patrick Simmons, Chairperson of the Grenada National Sports Council, who views it as a developmental model for other parishes and sporting disciplines nationwide.

    As approval processes and procurement activities advance, organizers anticipate Riverbank’s emergence as a modern sporting hub that honors its historical legacy while shaping a new future for basketball and community sports in St David. The project is expected to strengthen youth development pathways, promote healthier lifestyles, enhance community engagement, and reinforce sports’ role as a vital tool for national development.

  • Former PM warns about derisking and link to cannabis sector

    Former PM warns about derisking and link to cannabis sector

    Grenada’s House of Representatives has passed landmark legislation decriminalizing cannabis, triggering urgent warnings about potential repercussions for the nation’s financial system. The Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) (Amendment) Bill, approved on January 20, 2026, legalizes possession of small cannabis quantities and permits regulated medicinal, therapeutic, scientific, and religious use for citizens aged 21 and above.

    The legislative overhaul includes protective measures for youth, establishes new cannabis misuse offenses, and provides for expunging criminal records for minor cannabis-related violations through amendments to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

    Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell sounded alarms during parliamentary debates, highlighting that decriminalization could jeopardize Grenada’s banking relationships with international counterparts. “The issue of derisking from international banks is something that we have to watch,” Mitchell cautioned, noting that cannabis remains federally illegal in major financial hubs like the United States.

    Mitchell explained that local financial institutions risk losing vital correspondent banking relationships if they process funds linked to cannabis operations. “The present danger we face can cripple our financial sector if not handled properly,” he warned, emphasizing that such scenario could create cash-heavy environments complicating tax collection and increasing security risks.

    The former leader revealed his administration had initially proposed similar amendments in 2021, but the initiative stalled due to parliament’s dissolution for 2022 elections.

    Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre expressed concerns about implementation clarity, stating: “I expected to hear more surrounding plans for implementation. If we’re not clear where we’re going and how we’re getting there, we can have problems.” She emphasized the serious consequences of potential cannabis misuse despite supporting the legislation.

    Government member Peter David highlighted the social benefits of record expungement, noting that criminal records have historically hindered opportunities for youth caught with minimal cannabis quantities. All present opposition members supported the bill, which now advances to the Upper House for further debate.

  • Military Training Exercise, Lance aux Epines, St George

    Military Training Exercise, Lance aux Epines, St George

    The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) has issued a public advisory regarding an upcoming military training operation scheduled for Thursday, January 22nd, 2026. The designated exercise will take place in the Lance aux Epines area within the St. George parish, with activities running from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM local time.

    Authorities have specifically addressed residents of the affected neighborhood, noting that they may witness personnel in military attire and equipment deployments throughout the day. The police commissioner’s office emphasized that these activities are part of a pre-planned training scenario and should not cause public concern or alarm.

    The notification serves as both an awareness campaign and reassurance effort from national security forces. Such exercises are routinely conducted to maintain operational readiness and training standards among Grenada’s defense and security personnel. The RGPF has established protocols for public communication regarding security exercises to maintain transparency and prevent unnecessary panic.

    This announcement follows standard procedure for military-civilian coordination in Grenada, where security forces regularly conduct training while minimizing disruption to civilian activities. The Lance aux Epines area was selected based on operational requirements and security considerations standard for such exercises.

  • Africa Union exports to Caricom could surpass US$1 billion mark

    Africa Union exports to Caricom could surpass US$1 billion mark

    A transformative economic partnership between Africa and the Caribbean is gaining momentum as new research reveals up to $1.6 billion in untapped trade potential. The groundbreaking findings emerged during the inaugural AfriCaribbean Private Sector Webinar Series, where government and business leaders convened to forge a new south-south economic alliance.

    Commissioned by the Caricom Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), the comprehensive study titled ‘Africa Union–Caricom Trade in Goods: Scope and Potential’ identifies 579 competitively priced product lines that African nations can supply to Caribbean markets at approximately 60% of current benchmark prices. The analysis demonstrates that at least 13 African Union countries each possess capacity to export over $58 million worth of non-mineral fuel goods to Caricom nations.

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, emphasized the strategic imperative behind this economic integration. “Political leadership establishes the framework, but it is businesses that drive innovation, generate trade volumes, mobilize investment, and create employment,” Minister Greene stated during his keynote address. He highlighted how global protectionism, geopolitical instability, and supply chain disruptions have made strengthened Africa-Caricom relations an economic necessity rather than merely an opportunity.

    CPSO Chief Executive Officer Dr. Patrick Antoine presented compelling market data showing that for most identified products, Caricom typically has four potential sourcing options from African Union countries, ensuring both supply diversity and competitive pricing. Dr. Antoine issued a powerful call to action: “We in the Caricom Private Sector choose not to wither; we choose not to retreat. Instead, we choose to engage relentlessly despite challenges of affordability, trade concentration, and scale inefficiencies.

    The virtual forum, jointly organized by the International Trade Centre, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), CPSO, and Africa Business Council, brought together over 200 business leaders and private sector firms. Anthony Ali, CEO of Goddard Enterprises Limited, shared practical insights from his company’s African market engagements, emphasizing the need for flexible approaches including local production partnerships and licensing arrangements to overcome logistical and financial barriers.

    While participants acknowledged persistent challenges including limited transport connectivity, high logistics costs, and fragmented payment systems, the consensus pointed toward innovative solutions in digital payments, shipping, and financing. The webinar series will continue with focused sessions on agribusiness, fashion, cosmetics, wellness, and medical technologies to translate this strategic vision into concrete business opportunities.