Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • Parks leads Saint Lucia’s 15‑medal triumph at Trinidad Swim Meet

    Parks leads Saint Lucia’s 15‑medal triumph at Trinidad Swim Meet

    Saint Lucia’s national swimming contingent made waves at the Aquatics Sports Association of Trinidad & Tobago (ASATT) Invitational, securing an extraordinary tally of 15 medals during the four-day championship held December 11-14 at Couva’s National Aquatic Centre. The six-member squad demonstrated exceptional prowess by capturing nine gold medals alongside multiple silver and bronze awards while establishing one new national record, two age-group records, and a meet record.

    Emerging as the tournament’s standout performer, Sapphire Parks of Sea Jays Swimming Club dominated the 11-12 age category despite entering only nine events. The phenomenal athlete claimed seven gold and two silver medals, culminating her remarkable year by shattering a senior national record and three age-group benchmarks. Parks notably surpassed her own previous performances in two events while eclipsing longstanding records in others.

    Her most significant achievement came in the women’s 200m individual medley, where she clocked 2:38.22 to break Fayth Jeffrey’s CARIFTA 2024 record of 2:38.88. Parks also demolished her own age-group mark of 2:39.73, simultaneously establishing her first senior national record. The swimming prodigy further demonstrated her versatility by improving her 200m butterfly time from 2:39.04 to 2:36.97 and conquering the 200m breaststroke with 2:56.93, surpassing Danielle Beaubrun’s 2003 record of 2:57.56. Parks additionally set a new meet record in the 50m butterfly.

    Team support came from Aniyah George, who placed tenth in the 11-12 girls category and secured bronze in the 200m backstroke—an event where Parks took gold. Jayden Xu contributed significantly in the 13-14 boys’ division, earning two gold medals (200m backstroke and 100m backstroke) and two silver medals to finish ninth overall. Teammates Noah Dorville (16th overall, bronze in 100m freestyle) and Tyler Dantes rounded out the impressive team performance.

    Team manager Denise Parks emphasized the meet’s competitive nature, noting: ‘The ASATT meet is highly competitive. The team came with the goal of achieving long-course CARIFTA times and to better their long-course times, which they did. I’m super proud of them.’ Sea Jays ultimately placed twelfth overall among 200 competitors from Trinidad & Tobago and across the Caribbean region.

  • Two non-nationals robbed, one injured in Trouya Airbnb break-in

    Two non-nationals robbed, one injured in Trouya Airbnb break-in

    A violent home invasion at a Trouya, Gros Islet Airbnb rental has prompted a police investigation following an armed robbery that left two foreign nationals injured. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, December 17, saw two masked assailants armed with knives force their way into the accommodation approximately at 1:00 a.m.

    The perpetrators confronted the two female occupants, demanding valuables including jewelry and cash. During the confrontation, a physical altercation ensued, resulting in one of the victims sustaining multiple lacerations from the assailants’ weapons.

    Authorities from the Gros Islet Police Station were alerted to the aggravated burglary shortly after 2:00 a.m. Emergency services, including the Gros Islet Fire Service, were dispatched to the scene to provide assistance. Both victims were transported to the Owen King EU Hospital for medical treatment of their injuries.

    Police officials confirmed that the two women have since been released from medical care and are currently cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues. The case represents a concerning incident of tourist accommodation targeting in the Gros Islet area.

  • Festival of Lights spotlights colour, community

    Festival of Lights spotlights colour, community

    The vibrant streets of Castries came alive on December 12th as Saint Lucia witnessed two significant events converging on the eve of National Day celebrations. The capital city experienced unprecedented activity with both the annual Festival of Lights procession and the swearing-in ceremony of a new ministerial Cabinet drawing massive crowds.

    By mid-afternoon, vehicular movement had slowed to a crawl as commuters navigated through congested thoroughfares, marking what locals consider the unofficial commencement of Christmas festivities. The Cultural Development Foundation orchestrated a spectacular parade featuring elaborately handcrafted lanterns that originated from Vigie playing field and progressed toward the city center.

    The procession showcased Saint Lucian cultural heritage through multiple artistic expressions: traditional masqueraders, papa jab characters, folk dancers, and stilt walkers accompanied by the rhythmic performances of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Band, drummers, and steelpan artists. A convoy of ornately decorated motorcycles and vehicles added contemporary flair to the traditional celebration, creating a multidimensional visual spectacle.

    As the parade reached William Peter Boulevard, thousands of spectators lining the streets witnessed the event’s first climactic moment. The focus subsequently shifted to Derek Walcott Square for the official inauguration ceremony of the Festival of Lights, featuring musical performances by the Barclays Choir of Barbados alongside cultural presentations by group Woule’ Te’ Te’ and artists Diana Phillip, Gersham, and TC Brown.

    Simultaneously, the cultural capital of Belle Vue hosted its own parallel celebrations, complete with Christmas hat-decorating competitions and performances by the Metaphorical Dancers. Community organizer Kendal Elva emphasized how these celebrations fostered communal unity and embodied the authentic spirit of the holiday season.

  • Music Fest Sent Lisi is here again

    Music Fest Sent Lisi is here again

    The highly anticipated Music Fest Sent Lisi, renowned as the Southern Caribbean’s signature musical extravaganza, makes its triumphant return to showcase the region’s most promising emerging artists. Scheduled for December 20th at Vieux Fort’s Phillip Marcelin Grounds, the festival will transform into a vibrant hub of musical innovation from 3 PM onward.

    Central to this year’s festivities is the Youth Star Contest, which will crown its champion from finalists meticulously selected throughout November. These aspiring musicians will demonstrate their artistry across diverse genres including jazz, gospel, dancehall, reggae, calypso, soca, rap, hip-hop, R&B, Dennery segment, and the increasingly popular Afrobeats.

    Ten exceptional performers will compete for prestigious honors including over $20,000 in cash prizes and the coveted title of Youth Star of the Year. The event will feature special appearances by reigning champion Vic Nation alongside established artists J Swain, Travo, Ashe’, Vun, Kristian Lawrence, Zidane, MNR, Wade, and Al the Artist, who will present a special duet performance with Eddie Bellas.

    Ashe’, who secured joint second position in last year’s competition, emphasized the festival’s significance for developing artists. “My debut experience last year exposed me to an entirely different performance environment compared to the calypso arena I’ve known,” Ashe’ reflected. “The platform provided invaluable learning opportunities through peer interaction and genuine camaraderie.”

    First-time participant Wade drew inspiration from supporting friends in previous editions. His competition entry ‘Desire’ represents an innovative fusion of dancehall and R&B rhythms. “I bring a distinctive musical perspective and unconventional style that I’m eager to share with wider audiences,” Wade explained.

    The festival will also showcase performers who dominated the 2025 music scene, including Piton Soca Starz winner Remote, Groovy Monarch Imran Nerdy, Alley Kyatt, Brii Music, Michael Robinson, Arthur Allain, and Cooyah. Special guest Reo, the Bouyon Prince from Dominica, will deliver his hit tracks ‘I Know Why’ and ‘Life Sweet’.

    Organizers envision creating an electrifying family-friendly atmosphere where Saint Lucian emerging talents and established performers will unite through captivating lyrics and infectious rhythms, delivering an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

  • Dominica, Antigua seek clarification of US travel restrictions

    Dominica, Antigua seek clarification of US travel restrictions

    The Trump administration has significantly broadened its controversial travel restrictions, adding 20 countries and the Palestinian Authority to its list of nations facing entry limitations. This policy expansion, announced Tuesday and set to take effect January 1, represents a substantial shift in American immigration and travel protocols under the guise of national security concerns.

    The updated restrictions implement comprehensive travel bans targeting citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria, alongside individuals traveling with documents issued by the Palestinian Authority. Concurrently, partial limitations have been imposed on nationals from fifteen additional countries, including the Caribbean nations of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica.

    The complete list of countries facing partial restrictions encompasses Angola, Benin, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe alongside the aforementioned Caribbean nations.

    Notably, the policy maintains exemptions for lawful permanent residents of the United States, individuals possessing valid visas, and specific visa categories including diplomats and international athletes. Furthermore, exceptions are granted to those whose entry is determined to serve American national interests.

    In reaction to this development, the governments of Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda have initiated urgent diplomatic communications seeking clarification. Dominica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement acknowledging the concerns the announcement may provoke while assuring citizens that the matter was being addressed with utmost seriousness. The ministry confirmed active engagement with officials at the United States Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, to obtain formal details regarding the scope, rationale, and specific implications for Dominican travelers and visa holders.

    Similarly, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed he had communicated directly with President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, offering full cooperation to address underlying concerns and facilitate the restoration of all visa categories. Both Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states emphasized their ongoing diplomatic efforts to comprehend the practical impact these new measures will have on their citizens.

  • VAT-free day set for December 22

    VAT-free day set for December 22

    In a significant economic move, the Saint Lucian Parliament has officially sanctioned a nationwide Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption day scheduled for December 22, 2025. This legislative action fulfills Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s campaign pledge made prior to the December 1 general elections, formally enacted during Parliament’s first post-election session through an amendment to the VAT Act.

    The approved legislation empowers the Inland Revenue Department to implement necessary adjustments, zero-rating most consumer goods purchased on the designated date from authorized businesses. Prime Minister Pierre explicitly clarified the broad scope of eligible items during parliamentary proceedings, stating, ‘So stoves, televisions, clothes, carpet, food, Christmas trees – everything that you buy locally… you pay no VAT.’

    However, the exemption excludes several specific categories including motor vehicles, petroleum products (gasoline, LPG, diesel), firearms and ammunition, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, professional services, legal fees, restaurant supplies, rent payments, lottery tickets, phone cards, internet and cable services, tourism-sector sales, and all imported goods and services.

    Business participation remains voluntary, requiring formal application submission to the Inland Revenue Department. Acting Comptroller Felicia Ellie emphasized that only approved applicants may legally offer VAT-free sales, ensuring compliance with national tax legislation. The government plans to publish comprehensive lists of both eligible products and participating retailers ahead of the shopping event.

    This initiative provides consumers with an effective 12.5% discount on most purchases, though the total tax saving exceeds this amount as purchases remain subject to Saint Lucia’s additional 2.5% health and security levy. The current VAT rate represents a reduction from the original 15% implemented when the tax was introduced in 2012.

  • Gusto scores, but Pack lose in title matchup

    Gusto scores, but Pack lose in title matchup

    In a dramatic overtime finale at WakeMed Soccer Park, the University of Washington Huskies captured their first-ever NCAA Division I men’s soccer championship with a 3-2 victory over North Carolina State. The championship match, played in frigid 25-degree conditions, concluded just 1:54 into golden goal overtime when Harrison Bertos delivered the title-winning shot inside the penalty area.

    The unseeded Huskies established early dominance with a 2-0 advantage before NC State mounted a spirited comeback. Wolfpack striker Donavan Phillip ignited hopes in the 66th minute with an acrobatic finish for his 19th goal of the season – leading all Division I scorers and marking the program’s highest tally since 1982. The comeback gained momentum when senior midfielder Taig Healy equalized at 2-2 in the 87th minute, forcing the championship into extra time.

    Phillip, who had previously scored four goals in the NCAA tournament and five game-winners during the season, was unable to provide another decisive moment. The Castries-born forward now faces a career crossroads with one year of eligibility remaining at NC State. Despite being selected 62nd overall by Colorado in last year’s MLS SuperDraft, Phillip indicated strong inclination toward returning to college soccer under coach Marc Hubbard’s guidance.

    Reflecting on the emotional loss, Phillip acknowledged the departing seniors while expressing optimism about the program’s future: ‘I have one more year. I’m really feeling for those seniors that ended a little short, but they know they’re gonna leave the programme in a better place. I feel like there’s only up from here.’

  • Saint Lucians back from 3×3 basketball training in Nassau

    Saint Lucians back from 3×3 basketball training in Nassau

    A 12-member delegation from Saint Lucia has concluded its participation in the FIBA Caribbean 3×3 Development Camp and Under-23 Tournament, returning from a five-day basketball immersion in The Bahamas. The event brought together emerging talent and officials from multiple Caribbean nations, including host nation Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, with competitions held at both DW Davis Gymnasium and Nassau Beach Soccer Arena.

    Saint Lucia’s women’s squad featured collegiate athletes Dasha Eugene and Keri Ann Lewis alongside Neanna Francois and Jeaneve James. Despite demonstrating competitive spirit, the team faced formidable opposition—suffering decisive losses to eventual champions Jamaica (16-2 and 22-4) and a narrow 15-12 defeat against Trinidad and Tobago. The men’s team, comprising Sidney Didier, Jamil James, Jaixan Justin, and Junior Dupree, experienced challenging matchups with a 17-10 loss to Haiti, 16-14 defeat against Cayman Islands, and an overtime thriller against Jamaica that ended 12-10 in Jamaica’s favor.

    The developmental aspect extended beyond competition as Saint Lucia Basketball Federation (SLBF) deployed coaching staff Colleen Edwards and Christus Michel, referee Shadrack Theodore, and 3×3 systems manager Christian Seales. Theodore engaged in specialized referee training under American instructor Glenn Tuitt, while Seales advanced his technical expertise through FIBA’s 3×3 platform clinic. All participating athletes benefited from skill development sessions conducted by FIBA 3×3 specialist Luca Carvalho.

    This initiative, supported by the Olympic Solidarity Programme, represents FIBA’s strategic effort to enhance high-performance pathways and accelerate the sport’s growth throughout the Caribbean region. CBC President Leslie Collymore emphasized the event’s significance: ‘The 3×3 Caribbean Camp and Cup represents our vision for a more unified, competitive and development-driven basketball ecosystem across the region, not only in 3×3 but holistically.’

    The SLBF acknowledged crucial support from the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, National Lotteries Authority, and Saint Lucia Tourism Authority that enabled the young athletes’ international exposure and development opportunity.

  • Robots, vision, bold ideas shine at Orbtronics’ Innovation Gala

    Robots, vision, bold ideas shine at Orbtronics’ Innovation Gala

    Saint Lucia’s technological ambitions took center stage on December 14 as over 200 innovators, government officials, and international tech representatives convened at Sandals Grande for the groundbreaking Orbtronics Innovation Gala. The premier event, organized by the Caribbean’s emerging tech hub Orbtronics, demonstrated the island nation’s growing capabilities in business innovation and digital technology through robotic displays, sophisticated cuisine, and cutting-edge entertainment.

    Orbtronics, established as a pivotal platform driving the Caribbean’s innovation agenda, provides comprehensive software solutions, educational resources, and strategic support for startups, governmental bodies, and enterprises. The company’s foundational mission centers on positioning Saint Lucia as the Caribbean’s central hub for technological advancement and digital creation.

    The gala served as a tangible manifestation of Orbtronics’ vision, with CEO and co-founder Keeghan Patrick highlighting the overwhelming support as evidence of the company’s emerging role as a regional trendsetter. “The general consensus recognizes Orbtronics as Saint Lucia’s technology leader,” Patrick stated. “We’re expanding this narrative throughout the Caribbean with the explicit goal of accelerating technology adoption and creation. We believe the Caribbean will no longer merely consume technology but will create the world’s next revolutionary technologies.”

    Co-founder Sherguan Roserie echoed this sentiment, expressing exceptional satisfaction with the 2025 gala’s unprecedented success. “The substantial backing from our sponsors, partners, and attendees—including representatives from leading global technology firms—underscores the growing significance of innovation across the Caribbean,” Roserie noted. “This event will persist as an essential platform for collaboration, inspiration, and showcasing transformative ideas that will shape the region’s future.”

    The gathering attracted considerable institutional support, with attendance from government officials including Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, OECS Director General Didacus Jules, regional business leaders, and corporate representatives from technology giants Google and Amazon. In a significant announcement, Prime Minister Pierre revealed plans for additional budgetary investment in Orbtronics, recognizing the company’s substantial contributions to national development.

    The Prime Minister, honored as Orbtronics Person of the Year for his early substantial investment in the company, emphasized the nation’s abundant talent during his address. “What you need is vision, boldness, commitment and discipline—these gentlemen have demonstrated precisely that,” Pierre declared. His symbolic handshake with the Kaizen X AI Robot on stage represented the Caribbean’s accelerating integration with emerging technologies, marking a historic moment in the region’s technological evolution.

  • Uber opens registration for taxi drivers in Saint Lucia

    Uber opens registration for taxi drivers in Saint Lucia

    Uber Technologies has initiated the registration process for licensed taxi operators in Saint Lucia, marking a significant step toward the official debut of its ride-hailing services on the island nation. The December 16 announcement confirms the platform will operate exclusively under the Uber Taxi framework, requiring all participating drivers to hold valid taxi licenses and certifications.

    Jorge Cordero, General Manager for Uber’s Saint Lucia operations, emphasized the strategic focus on leveraging technology to enhance earning potential for local drivers. “We’re seeking licensed taxi professionals who want to expand their client base through digital innovation,” Cordero stated. “This initiative specifically targets the growing demographic of tourists who already prefer the Uber ecosystem during their travels.”

    The company is implementing a dual approach to market entry: directly onboarding individual drivers through the Uber Driver application while simultaneously engaging with established taxi associations and transportation enterprises across the island. This collaborative model aims to integrate existing transportation infrastructure with Uber’s technological platform.

    Prospective drivers must undergo a comprehensive verification process, submitting documentation including valid driving credentials, taxi permits, insurance certifications, banking information, photographic identification, and completed background checks. The Uber Taxi model already operates successfully in multiple Caribbean markets including Barbados, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, demonstrating the viability of this approach in similar tourism-driven economies.

    Uber’s expansion strategy focuses on connecting licensed operators with both residents and visitors, particularly targeting the substantial tourist population already familiar with the application’s functionality. The company confirms that while driver onboarding is currently underway, an official service launch date will be announced following completion of preparatory phases.