Carib Scope

标签： Grenada

格林纳达

  • Afreximbank raises CARICOM financing cap to US$5 billion to accelerate regional transformation

    Afreximbank raises CARICOM financing cap to US$5 billion to accelerate regional transformation

    In a landmark announcement at the 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Conference in Basseterre, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) Executive Vice President Dr. Denys Denya unveiled a substantial expansion of the bank’s Caribbean engagement strategy. The pan-African multilateral institution has elevated its regional financing commitment from $3 billion to $5 billion for implementation over the next three to four years, signaling a profound deepening of Africa-Caribbean economic cooperation.

    This enhanced financial framework builds upon existing disbursements exceeding $750 million across the region and an active pipeline surpassing $2 billion in currently executing transactions. Dr. Denya articulated the bank’s visionary objective to fundamentally transform economic structures through strategic investments in value-added processing of agricultural outputs and natural resources. The comprehensive strategy aims to retain significant economic value within regional economies, generate sustainable wealth creation, stimulate employment opportunities, and enhance livelihoods while producing positive spillover effects on government revenues and investment landscapes.

    The bank’s multidimensional intervention strategy encompasses healthcare facility development in Barbados, Guyana, and Grenada; tourism sector enhancement across Barbados, Grenada, Bahamas, and Antigua and Barbuda; agro-processing projects and logistics infrastructure in Barbados, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis; plus critical infrastructure development including power generation, distribution systems, road networks, conferencing facilities, and trade centers throughout Grenada, Jamaica, Bahamas, and Suriname.

    Additional strategic initiatives include specialized financing support for banking institutions in Suriname, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Dominica—featuring SME-focused lending facilities for regional development banks; local content promotion programs in resource-rich nations to maximize value retention through entrepreneurial empowerment; development of sea and air connectivity frameworks to enhance intra-Caribbean movement of goods, services, and investments; and expansion of the Creative Africa Nexus Programme to foster cultural and creative industry development through financing, capacity building, and trade facilitation between African and Caribbean creative sectors.

    Following high-level discussions with Eastern Caribbean Central Bank leadership, Afreximbank has committed to supporting implementation of regional development strategies targeting economic doubling within a decade. This collaboration will encompass investments in infrastructure development, power generation and distribution systems, agricultural production, and processing capabilities. The bank is already facilitating African corporate expansion into the region through partnerships with entities including Access Bank, Oando, and Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms, with the latter exploring special economic zone establishment in multiple Caribbean nations.

    Dr. Denya reaffirmed commitment to developing the Afreximbank African Trade Centre in Bridgetown, Barbados, to consolidate institutional presence while advancing establishment of the Caribbean Eximbank as a transformative investment vehicle. The bank welcomed CARICOM Central Bank Governors’ decision to proceed with the CARICOM Payment and Settlement System—modeled after Afreximbank’s pioneering PAPSS system launched in 2022—which will establish a low-cost, real-time cross-border payment system utilizing local currencies to dramatically enhance regional trade integration.

    The conference, conducted under the theme “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM” from February 24-27, featured addresses by regional leaders, Commonwealth Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett, and Saudi Arabian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mr. Adel al-Jubeir. St. Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to host the fifth Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026) in July 2026, featuring panel discussions, business matchmaking sessions, cultural showcases, and significant agreement signings.

  • African Export–Import Bank raises Caricom financing ceiling to US$5 billion

    African Export–Import Bank raises Caricom financing ceiling to US$5 billion

    The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has substantially elevated its financial commitment to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), raising its financing ceiling from $3 billion to $5 billion. This strategic enhancement was unveiled during the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, marking a significant step in fortifying economic collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean. The bank has set an ambitious target to fully deploy this augmented financial capacity within the next three to four years. This expanded initiative is founded upon a robust foundation of over $750 million already disbursed across the region and an active pipeline exceeding $2 billion in transactions currently being executed. The financing is strategically directed towards stimulating value-added production within pivotal sectors such as agriculture and natural resources. Concurrently, it will bolster critical infrastructure development, encompassing power generation and distribution networks, roadways, trade centers, and international conference facilities. A diverse portfolio of projects has been earmarked for development, including the establishment of healthcare facilities in Barbados, Guyana, and Grenada; targeted tourism investments in Barbados, Grenada, the Bahamas, and Antigua and Barbuda; and the development of agro-processing and logistics infrastructure across multiple CARICOM member states. Furthermore, Afreximbank is extending credit lines and specialized on-lending facilities tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to financial institutions in Suriname, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Dominica. In a coordinated effort with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), the institution has pledged support for a comprehensive regional development strategy. This strategy aims to double the size of the eastern Caribbean economy within a ten-year framework, with concentrated investments in infrastructure, agricultural modernization, and enhanced processing capabilities. Reinforcing its long-term presence, Afreximbank reaffirmed its plans to establish a permanent African Trade Centre in Bridgetown, Barbados. Work is also progressing on the creation of a dedicated Caribbean Eximbank, designed to mobilize long-term development finance for the region. The institution also expressed strong support for the ongoing development of the CARICOM Payment and Settlement System (CPSS), a mechanism inspired by the successful Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) launched in 2022 to facilitate seamless cross-border trade using local currencies. Headquartered in Cairo, Afreximbank is a premier pan-African multilateral financial institution with a three-decade-long history of financing and promoting both intra- and extra-African trade. It has been instrumental in driving industrialization and fostering regional economic integration, notably through its support for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As of December 2024, the bank reported formidable financial strength with total assets and contingencies surpassing $40.1 billion and shareholder funds standing at $7.2 billion. It maintains investment-grade credit ratings from leading agencies including GCR, Moody’s, China Chengxin International Credit Rating, and the Japan Credit Rating Agency. The Afreximbank Group encompasses the bank itself, the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA) as its equity impact investment arm, and AfrexInsure, its insurance management subsidiary.

  • Grenada advances national biodiversity targets and financing solutions

    Grenada advances national biodiversity targets and financing solutions

    Grenada has taken significant strides in advancing its environmental agenda through a comprehensive national workshop focused on biodiversity conservation. The Ministry of Climate Resilience, the Environment and Renewable Energy, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), hosted the pivotal gathering on February 25, 2026, at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort.

    The workshop assembled a diverse coalition of stakeholders spanning government ministries, civil society organizations, statutory agencies, private sector representatives, and community groups from across Grenada’s regions, including Carriacou and St. George’s. This multidisciplinary participation underscored the nationwide commitment to addressing ecological challenges.

    Central to the discussions was the critical examination of Grenada’s draft national biodiversity targets and the development of sustainable financing mechanisms to support their implementation. The workshop forms an integral component of the GEF-funded Early Action Support Project, administered by UNDP through the Biodiversity Umbrella Programme for Grenada.

    Key thematic outcomes emphasized the necessity of national ownership and multi-stakeholder collaboration in fulfilling the country’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity. Participants highlighted that legislative enforcement, conservation initiatives, and public awareness campaigns constitute fundamental pillars for achieving measurable progress by 2030.

    UNDP Multi-Country Coordinator Dr. Jenna Blackwood reaffirmed the organization’s continued support in revising Grenada’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) while developing sustainable financing frameworks. Environmental Specialist Aria St Louis, representing the Permanent Secretary, characterized the consultation as igniting “a flame for bold action” to preserve Grenada’s natural and cultural heritage.

    Minister Kerryne James emphasized the importance of establishing scientifically-grounded, scalable targets, stating: “What we are developing here is a national action framework, a governance instrument, a financing roadmap, and ultimately a tool for accountability.” The Minister warned against policy inertia given the “accelerating climate and ecological risks” and commended efforts to address implementation mechanisms, including sustainable biodiversity financing.

    Technical discussions encompassed ecosystem restoration, invasive species management, protected area expansion, and community participation strategies. These were complemented by analyses of Grenada’s biodiversity financing landscape, identifying challenges in domestic resource mobilization and proposing innovative financial solutions.

    The workshop revealed persistent challenges including capacity constraints, data deficiencies, and limitations in current financing flows that must be addressed to ensure long-term implementation success. Participant feedback will inform the finalization of national biodiversity targets and ongoing assessments of sustainable financing options, contributing to an updated NBSAP aligned with Grenada’s Sustainable Development Plan 2035 and the Convention’s Global Biodiversity Framework vision of “living in harmony with nature.”

  • Grenada leverages Trinidad Carnival to strengthen cultural tourism

    Grenada leverages Trinidad Carnival to strengthen cultural tourism

    The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has successfully concluded its groundbreaking cultural mission during Trinidad’s 2026 Carnival season, capitalizing on the growing global fascination with authentic Caribbean experiences. This strategic initiative featured an influential partnership with regional entertainment giant Caesar’s Army, deploying an elite contingent of Grenadian performers including V’ghn, Lil Kerry, Dread Lion, and DJ Kevin Crown.

    The artistic delegation delivered electrifying performances at premier events AMBeach and AMBush, where Grenada’s distinctive Jab Jab Truck served as a powerful cultural emblem. This immersive percussion-based showcase transported the raw vitality and unique character of Spicemas directly to thousands of international and regional carnival enthusiasts.

    Samantha Thomas, GTA Marketing Executive who spearheaded on-site activations, observed the profound impact of Grenada’s cultural presentation: ‘There’s an extraordinary energy that emerges when genuine Grenadian spirit occupies these creative spaces—you can visibly witness the transformation in audience engagement. This represents a phenomenal platform for our musical heritage and cultural expressions to reach thousands while reminding them that the authentic experience awaits in Grenada this August.’

    The cultural mission extended beyond live performances to encompass strategic media engagements, with tourism representatives utilizing radio broadcasts and media appearances to position Grenada as a premium destination celebrated for its culinary distinction, eco-leisure facilities, and rejuvenating wellness offerings.

    This initiative constitutes a crucial component of GTA’s comprehensive cultural tourism strategy, designed to transform the international appeal of Grenadian music into tangible destination recognition and heightened travel interest preceding the upcoming Spicemas season.

    Tornia Charles, GTA’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the significance of artistic diplomacy: ‘Our performers have consistently demonstrated their effectiveness as cultural ambassadors. The collaboration with Caesar’s Army embodies our integrated approach to cultural tourism development. Recognizing Trinidad & Tobago as our regional market leader, we aimed to safeguard market presence while ensuring Grenada’s unique identity continues to captivate Caribbean audiences, generating direct economic advantages for Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.’

    The Grenada Tourism Authority plans to maintain this cultural momentum through targeted activations and regional engagements throughout the year.

  • Building next generation of female cricketers

    Building next generation of female cricketers

    In a landmark initiative for Caribbean sports, Grenada has officially inaugurated its first-ever Girls’ Cricket Development Programme through a collaborative partnership between the Grenada Cricket Association (GCA), Grenada Electricity Services Ltd. (Grenlec), and Cricket West Indies. This structured development pathway represents a transformative investment in women’s athletics, specifically designed to provide consistent coaching, competitive exposure, and mentorship for young female cricketers at the school level.

    GCA President Norman Gilbert emphasized the strategic importance of the programme, stating, ‘This inaugural activity is going to play a significant part in the development of women’s cricket in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. For the very first time, we have a programme exclusively dedicated to women’s development.’

    The initiative has garnered strong institutional support, with Dwain Gill, High Performance Manager for Cricket West Indies, highlighting the essential role of corporate partnerships in sports development. ‘Collaboration between corporate and sporting organisations is fundamental to expanding access and ensuring programmes are delivered with quality and consistency. We need more corporate citizens to step forward and support women’s cricket—your investment creates tangible impact.’

    The programme launched with participation from over 150 girls from primary and secondary schools across Grenada’s tri-island state. They were greeted by cricketing ambassadors including Women’s Team West Indies member Afy Fletcher and former player Junior Murray, alongside other Caribbean cricket legends who came to show their support.

    Fletcher inspired participants with a powerful message: ‘This programme transcends cricket. It’s about building strong, confident young women for Grenada. Dream big. Train hard. Support each other. Your journey begins right here.’

    The partners also acknowledged the crucial contributions of Grenada’s ministries of Sport and Education, participating schools, programme administrators, coaches, and parents in ensuring the initiative supports both athletic excellence and personal development. Through this comprehensive approach, the programme is positioned to significantly advance the quality and popularity of women’s cricket in the region.

  • This Day in History: Fédon’s Rebellion began 3 March 1795

    This Day in History: Fédon’s Rebellion began 3 March 1795

    On March 3, 1795, Grenada became the stage for one of the Caribbean’s most significant colonial uprisings when French inhabitants—comprising free people of color, white settlers, and enslaved Africans—initiated a violent rebellion against British colonial authority. The revolt, masterminded by Julien Fédon, erupted following years of religious, social, and political oppression under British rule, intensified by revolutionary ideals emanating from France.

    The rebellion commenced with coordinated nighttime assaults on Grenville (La Baye) and Gouyave, where insurgents captured and executed British residents, including prominent figures such as Dr. John Hay and Reverend Francis McMahon. Rallying under the banner ‘Liberté, égalité ou la mort!’ (Liberty, equality, or death!), Fédon’s forces established a strategic stronghold at Belvidere, attracting widespread support from French planters, free Black communities, and enslaved individuals seeking liberation from British domination.

    British attempts to suppress the rebellion faced significant challenges. An April 8 military offensive against rebel positions failed catastrophically, prompting Fédon to execute 47 hostages in retaliation. The colonial government subsequently implemented a new strategy involving coastal blockades to disrupt rebel supply lines and the formation of armed Loyal Black Rangers from enslaved populations.

    The conflict persisted for over fifteen months, with rebels controlling most of the island by early 1796. The tide turned in March when British reinforcements captured critical positions at Post Royal and Pilot Hill, severing the insurgents’ supply routes. The final blow came on June 19 with the arrival of General Abercromby’s forces, which systematically dismantled rebel defenses and forced survivors to retreat to Fédon’s mountain camp.

    The aftermath was brutal: approximately fifty rebels were convicted of high treason, with fourteen publicly executed in St. George’s Market Square. Many victims were decapitated, their heads displayed as warnings, while surviving rebels and their families were deported to Honduras. The rebellion resulted in devastating economic losses estimated between £2.5-4.5 million, the destruction of agricultural infrastructure, and approximately 7,000 enslaved Africans killed alongside hundreds of British soldiers.

    Historically complex in its objectives, Fédon’s Rebellion initially sought to replace British authority with French governance and secure civil rights for free people of color rather than universal emancipation. Nonetheless, it effectively terminated French influence in Grenada, cementing British colonial control and leaving an indelible mark on the island’s historical trajectory.

  • Local artist honours Grenadian women on International Women’s Day

    Local artist honours Grenadian women on International Women’s Day

    In a powerful tribute to Grenada’s feminine spirit, visual artist Kristianne Buxo presents “GRENADENIANA: Presence • Passion • Poise,” a solo exhibition dedicated to celebrating the cultural resilience and dignity of Grenadian women. The event will unfold on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Décorum within the Exit 473 complex, strategically timed on the eve of International Women’s Day.

    Buxo’s exhibition features expressive portraiture inspired by Caribbean feminine presence, honoring mothers, daughters, and matriarchs whose enduring grace has fundamentally shaped the nation’s identity. The artist explained her motivation: “Amid ongoing conversations about the well-being and protection of Grenadian women, I felt compelled to use my artistic platform to both honor and uplift our women. This exhibition serves as both celebration and tangible gesture of solidarity.

    Beyond visual artistry, the event establishes meaningful philanthropic partnerships. Buxo has collaborated with Sweet Water Foundation to facilitate direct donations during the exhibition, while also committing a portion of all art sales proceeds to support the organization’s programs benefiting women and families across Grenada.

    The evening promises a multifaceted cultural experience with restaurants and bars within the Exit 473 complex remaining open to patrons. Musical accompaniment will enhance the vibrant atmosphere, creating an immersive celebration of Grenadian heritage. Additional parking accommodations have been generously provided by L L Ramdhanny & Co. Ltd, with their nearby parking lot available for guests.

    This community-oriented event invites public participation in celebrating Grenadian women through artistic expression, collective gathering, and purposeful support systems that extend beyond the gallery walls.

  • Investing in Caribbean Creativity on the Global Stage

    Investing in Caribbean Creativity on the Global Stage

    Grenada is poised to make its ninth appearance at the 2026 Venice Biennale, securing its position on one of the world’s most prestigious visual arts platforms. This participation transcends mere national representation, emerging as a strategic cultural initiative with profound regional and global implications.

    The Grenada Pavilion will be hosted at Spazio Berlendis under the thematic concept ‘The Poetics of Correspondence,’ facilitating reflective cross-cultural dialogue. The exhibition will feature an impressive roster of artists including Arthur Daniel, Lilo Nido and Chris Mast, Edward Bowen, Russel Watson, Josine Dupont, Alexandra Kordas, and The Holzwege Group.

    This cultural endeavor carries significant regional importance by advancing CARICOM and OECS integration while expanding economic opportunities within the Caribbean creative sector. It establishes crucial pathways for emerging Caribbean artists to access international networks and potentially strengthens partnerships across education, tourism, and innovation sectors.

    Globally, the pavilion builds upon networks established since Grenada’s inaugural 2015 participation, elevating Caribbean perspectives within international discourse and creating diplomatic and economic bridges beyond conventional trade channels.

    The 2026 edition marks a watershed moment for Caribbean representation, with The Bahamas also returning after a 13-year absence. Additionally, numerous Caribbean artists have been selected for exhibition in the Biennale’s main Arsenale hall, including Álvaro Barrington, Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons, Carolina Caycedo, Annalee Davis, and Ebony G. Patterson among others.

    Despite its volunteer-driven organization, the project requires substantial funding for exhibition production, venue rental, international shipping, communications, and artist accommodations. The Grenada Arts Council, a registered non-profit, is urgently seeking corporate partners who recognize culture’s power as an economic driver and brand differentiator.

    Sponsors will receive prominent recognition in exhibition catalogues and promotional materials throughout the seven-month event, with their contributions permanently archived in the historical record. This initiative represents a proven platform for positioning Grenada and the wider Caribbean as creative leaders on the world stage.

  • Immigration Department introduces Grenada’s online E/D card

    Immigration Department introduces Grenada’s online E/D card

    In a landmark move toward digital governance, the Caribbean nation of Grenada has officially transitioned from paper-based immigration forms to a fully digital Embarkation/Disembarkation (E/D) card system. This innovative platform, which became fully operational on March 1, 2026, represents the country’s first comprehensive digital solution for traveler processing and signifies a major advancement in its public service modernization agenda.

    The newly launched online system enables all incoming and outgoing travelers to submit mandatory entry information digitally prior to their arrival or departure. This pre-clearance capability is designed to dramatically reduce processing times at border checkpoints, particularly at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient experience for both international visitors and returning citizens.

    Architected around three fundamental pillars, Grenada’s digital E/D card system prioritizes user experience, data security, and international compliance. The platform features an intuitively designed interface that guides users through a simplified submission process, requiring minimal time and technical proficiency. From a security perspective, the system incorporates advanced encryption protocols and robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive personal information against potential breaches. Furthermore, the digital framework aligns with global travel standards, reinforcing Grenada’s commitment to maintaining contemporary security practices while enhancing its reputation as a traveler-friendly destination.

    The Grenadian government recommends that travelers complete the digital form at least one day before their scheduled departure or prior to leaving their initial port of embarkation by accessing the official portal at edcard.gov.gd. This proactive approach ensures that immigration procedures are completed seamlessly, allowing for accelerated processing upon physical arrival at Grenadian entry points.

  • GFNC warns: Do not trust the taste-test

    GFNC warns: Do not trust the taste-test

    The Grenada Food and Nutrition Council (GFNC) has issued a critical public health advisory warning parents and caregivers against the dangers of serving alcohol-containing beverages to children. The council emphasized that using taste-testing alone to determine alcohol content is dangerously unreliable, as an adult’s alcohol tolerance differs significantly from a child’s physiological capacity.

    According to the GFNC, beverages with any detectable alcohol content—ranging from minimal 0.5% to concentrations exceeding 10%—are inappropriate for children and should never be provided to minors below the legal drinking age. The advisory specifically directs parents, guardians, vendors, and school administrators to meticulously examine beverage labels to ensure complete absence of alcohol before serving drinks to children.

    The health authority highlighted neurodevelopmental concerns, noting that human brain development continues into the mid-20s, making alcohol exposure particularly harmful during childhood and adolescence. The GFNC strongly recommends that adults consistently select alcohol-free alternatives for children and verify product labeling during purchases.

    The council encourages public engagement through its official website (https://gfnc.gov.gd/about-us/) and social media channels (https://linktr.ee/473GFNC) for additional nutritional guidance. The announcement concludes with GFNC’s foundational message: ‘Eat Local: Strengthen Food and Nutrition Security in Grenada.’