标签: Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • Windwards lose WI women’s cricket curtain-raiser

    Windwards lose WI women’s cricket curtain-raiser

    In a thrilling opening match of the Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze tournament, defending champions Guyana edged past the Windward Islands by a narrow seven-run margin on Tuesday at Arnos Vale Sports Complex in Kingstown, St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

    The match began with Windward Islands captain Zaida James winning the toss and opting to field first. Guyana’s batting innings was characterized by steady partnerships rather than explosive scoring. After an initial opening stand of 27 runs, the Windwards gained momentum with key breakthroughs from Jannillea Glasgow and James herself, who removed Realeanna Grimmond (8) and Mandy Mangru (16) respectively.

    Shakiba Gajnabi emerged as the batting anchor for Guyana, crafting a crucial 38 runs from 37 deliveries including two boundaries. Her productive partnership with Ashmini Munisar (17 off 20 balls) in the final overs proved decisive, propelling Guyana to a competitive total of 96-5 from their allotted 20 overs.

    The Windwards’ bowling attack demonstrated disciplined performance, particularly from James who recorded impressive figures of 1-14 from her four overs, and Glasgow who conceded just 10 runs from three overs while taking a wicket.

    In response, the Windward Islands’ chase encountered early setbacks with the dismissals of Ashlene Edward (5) and captain James (1) within the first five overs. A resilient 59-run partnership between Jannillea Glasgow and Afy Fletcher revived hopes, with Glasgow top-scoring at 41 runs from 36 balls including four boundaries. Fletcher contributed 33 from 36 deliveries with a four and six.

    Despite needing 19 runs from the final 16 balls, the Windwards fell short at 89-5, with Guyana’s bowling unit maintaining composure under pressure. Sheneta Grimmond, Ashmini Munisar and Plaffiana Millington each claimed wickets for the defending champions.

    The Windward Islands, featuring all four Saint Lucian players in their starting lineup, will look to rebound in their next encounter against Trinidad & Tobago on Thursday.

  • Mendes reaps benefits from songwriting, producing

    Mendes reaps benefits from songwriting, producing

    Dwayne Mendes, CEO of Blazin’ FM, is experiencing a remarkable creative and commercial resurgence in the music industry exactly one year after recommitting to his songwriting and production passions. His collaborative soca track “Cyah Behave,” performed by artist Voice, has emerged as a standout hit throughout Trinidad’s 2026 carnival circuit while earning the prestigious selection as Exodus Steel Orchestra’s competition piece for this year’s Panorama championships.

    The journey to this success began during Miami Carnival in October 2025, where Mendes rediscovered his connection to soca music after exploring various genres including R&B, dancehall and reggae. “During Miami Carnival, I was able to absorb the atmosphere and remind myself what people loved about soca,” Mendes reflects on the experience that reignited his creative spark.

    Mendes attributes his refined craft to invaluable industry feedback that helped him develop a distinctive writing style and production formula. “I adjusted my approach based on what audiences truly respond to—the sing-alongs, the hooks, and other essential elements,” he explains, noting how he subsequently revisited and enhanced his earlier compositions.

    Adopting a business-minded strategy, Mendes now contracts professional brokers to pitch his songs, a system that enables rapid growth while maintaining creative freedom. “I’m currently negotiating about eight songs, which allows me to remain consistently creative,” he reveals.

    Commenting on contemporary soca trends, Mendes observes the effective blending of nostalgic elements with innovative approaches. “Music operates in cycles similar to fashion,” he notes. “What sounds nostalgic to some listeners represents something entirely fresh to the 18-25 demographic, creating a smart bridge between generations.”

    Looking toward Saint Lucia Carnival, Mendes is collaborating with Teddyson John on a reimagined classic and developing new material with former monarch Alpha. His perspective is informed by pioneering work with Studio 758 and SLU Records, which produced international breakthroughs including Ricky T’s “Pressure Boom” and historic appearances at International Soca Monarch and Madison Square Gardens with Machel.

    “The financial landscape has transformed dramatically since we built Saint Lucia’s soca scene from the ground up,” Mendes observes. “Today’s artists achieve genuine success, allowing me to focus exclusively on providing quality music rather than artist management.”

    Beyond soca, Mendes continues ghostwriting for prominent dancehall artists and awaits album placements with a Jamaican act signed to an international label. He expresses profound satisfaction witnessing Saint Lucia’s soca scene flourish, stating: “I’m happy to reap fruits from what we started over 15 years ago and participate in this industry from a renewed perspective.”

  • Over 1,300 cannabis plants destroyed as two Laborie men charged

    Over 1,300 cannabis plants destroyed as two Laborie men charged

    In a significant crackdown on narcotics operations, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has apprehended and charged two individuals from Laborie following coordinated anti-drug operations conducted on January 10th. The operation, which involved multiple specialized police units, resulted in substantial drug seizures and the destruction of extensive cannabis cultivation sites.

    Authorities executed a search warrant at a residence in Black Bay, Laborie, belonging to Leroy Willie. During the operation, law enforcement officials discovered and confiscated 23.2 pounds of suspected cannabis. Additionally, police recovered EC$765 in cash believed to be proceeds from illicit drug transactions. The seized narcotics have an estimated street value of EC$10,440 according to official police assessments.

    The investigation expanded beyond the residential property as officers conducted thorough searches of the surrounding area. Their efforts led to the discovery of six separate cannabis plantations containing 1,368 cannabis plants. All identified plants were subsequently seized and destroyed by authorities in compliance with Saint Lucia’s drug enforcement protocols.

    Leroy Willie was taken into custody and formally charged with multiple drug-related offenses including possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to supply, and cultivation of prohibited plants. The operation continued with further investigations leading to the arrest of 44-year-old Glenroy Willie, another resident of the same household, on January 11th. He faces similar narcotics-related charges.

    The successful intervention resulted from a multi-unit collaboration involving officers from the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit, the Tactical Response Unit, and the Special Services Unit. These units conducted three targeted searches across the Soufrière, Choiseul, and Laborie regions as part of the coordinated effort.

    Both defendants were scheduled to appear before a magistrate on January 13, 2026, to answer to the charges brought against them in what authorities describe as a significant blow to local drug trafficking operations in the region.

  • Body found in Vieux Fort identified as 66-year-old man

    Body found in Vieux Fort identified as 66-year-old man

    Saint Lucian law enforcement officials have formally identified the human remains discovered earlier this month in the Vieux Fort region. The deceased has been confirmed as Norbert Crick, a 66-year-old resident of Doe Camel, La Resource, Vieux Fort.

    The grim discovery occurred during the early hours of January 12th in the Beanfield vicinity, where authorities encountered a body in an advanced state of decomposition. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Crick’s death and the subsequent disposal of his remains.

    Police representatives have emphasized that the investigative process remains actively ongoing, with forensic experts and detectives working to establish a precise timeline of events leading to this tragic incident. While the cause of death has not been officially disclosed, authorities are treating the case with utmost seriousness.

    The RSLPF has issued a public appeal for information regarding this case. Individuals possessing any knowledge pertinent to the investigation are encouraged to come forward and assist authorities. Multiple channels for information sharing have been established, including direct contact with the Vieux Fort Police Station at 456-3905, the national Crime Hotline at 555, or through the official RSLPF Crime Hotline mobile application, which guarantees anonymity for informants.

  • Officials warn of severe 2026 dry season

    Officials warn of severe 2026 dry season

    Meteorological authorities in Saint Lucia are issuing urgent warnings about an impending high-impact drought expected to grip the island nation during its 2026 dry season. Drawing parallels to the severe dry spells of 2020 and 2009-2010, officials anticipate persistent arid conditions with temperatures soaring above seasonal norms.

    Vigil Saltibus, Director of Meteorological Services, characterized the developing situation as a significant meteorological event during a recent press conference. “Persistent dry and warmer-than-normal conditions will remain the dominant feature of the season,” Saltibus cautioned, emphasizing the critical need for coordinated water management strategies and public cooperation to mitigate potential socioeconomic consequences.

    The transition from the 2025 wet season into 2026 has already demonstrated alarming rainfall deficiencies. Meteorological data reveals substantial precipitation shortfalls, with Hewanorra International Airport recording a 41% deficit and George F. L. Charles Airport experiencing a 28% reduction compared to historical averages.

    The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) confirms emerging short-term drought conditions across the island, placing considerable stress on natural water sources including rivers, streams, and ponds. The institute further warns of escalating risks to reservoir capacities, groundwater reserves, agricultural productivity, and heightened vulnerability to bushfires.

    Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) officials acknowledge severe operational challenges, reporting a 50% production decrease in southern distribution networks and significant intake reductions in northern systems. Chief Operations Officer Aly Anthony conceded the approaching season would present substantial difficulties but committed to implementing strategic reserve management to prevent extended service interruptions.

    Immediate countermeasures include replacing filtration systems at the Theobalds treatment facility and accelerating pipeline enhancement projects, particularly focusing on the critical raw water conduit from the John Compton Dam—described as the primary artery for northern water supply.

    Looking toward long-term solutions, Anthony emphasized the inevitability of desalination technology adoption given escalating demand from tourism infrastructure, commercial enterprises, and residential consumers. “We have now reached the point where desalination is imperative,” Anthony stated. “This must become a central feature in our national discourse—we no longer have alternative options.”

    Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre reinforced the urgency during a pre-Cabinet briefing, advocating for rainwater harvesting to become standard practice among citizens. Revealing that his household primarily relies on captured rainwater, the Prime Minister stressed that resolving WASCO’s infrastructural challenges would require sustained effort beyond immediate seasonal constraints.

    The government’s appeals align with the Ministry of Agriculture’s position that water conservation represents both individual responsibility and collective national priority amid accelerating climate change impacts and aging water infrastructure.

  • Police, family search for missing pregnant woman

    Police, family search for missing pregnant woman

    Authorities and concerned citizens in Saint Lucia have intensified efforts to locate Cassie John, a 34-year-old pregnant woman who vanished from her La Toc, Castries residence on January 3rd. The missing person case has prompted both official police investigations and heartfelt community appeals for information.

    In a developing situation that has gripped the local community, law enforcement agencies have issued formal bulletins describing John as having a dark complexion and short hair while emphasizing her vulnerable condition due to pregnancy. The police have established dedicated channels for information submission, urging anyone with potentially relevant details to contact their nearest station without delay.

    Meanwhile, family members have launched parallel efforts through social media platforms and community networks. In a emotionally charged statement circulated on January 11, relatives articulated their growing distress while making a passionate plea for public assistance. The family specifically highlighted concerns about misinformation proliferation, noting that unverified claims and speculative reports could potentially hinder investigative progress rather than aid search efforts.

    Investigators have emphasized that even minor observations or seemingly insignificant details could provide crucial breakthroughs in the case. The search operation continues to combine traditional police methodology with community-led initiatives, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing the disappearance.

  • Saint Lucian athletes set school, national records in US track

    Saint Lucian athletes set school, national records in US track

    Saint Lucian athletes delivered exceptional performances across multiple US collegiate track and field events over the weekend, with two competitors establishing new school records and one setting a national milestone. The remarkable achievements highlight the growing prominence of Caribbean athletes in collegiate sports.

    Eighteen-year-old Naya Jules made an impressive debut for Garden City Community College in Kansas by clearing 3.05 meters in the women’s pole vault. This performance not only set a new school record but also established a fresh Saint Lucia national record. The Babonneau native had previously set a CARIFTA and national record of 3.00 meters at Hasely Crawford Stadium in 2025. Competing at the Friends First Chance Qualifier in Wichita, Jules placed ninth overall in pole vault while also participating in the 60m hurdles, finishing 17th with a time of 10.93 seconds.

    Meanwhile, 24-year-old Carl Drakes continued his successful season with Coppin State University Eagles at the VCU Indoor Invitational. Drakes achieved a narrow second-place finish in the men’s 300m with a school-record time of 33.88 seconds. He additionally placed fourth in the 60m event, clocking 6.70 seconds, just shy of his personal best.

    Other Saint Lucian athletes demonstrated strong performances across various competitions. Asa Francis secured fourth place in the men’s 400m (49.01) and eleventh in the mile (4:29.60) at VCU, following his December achievement of lowering his 1000m national record to 2:28.66. Eighteen-year-old Jasmine Stiede made an encouraging indoor debut for Wichita State Shockers, finishing third in the women’s 800m with a time of 2:25.68.

    At the Lewis vs Purdue Northwest meet in Illinois, freshman Cagini Pilgrim and senior Tyler Toussaint excelled in the men’s 55m, placing first (6.45) and third (6.51) respectively. Additional notable performances included Miguel Charlery’s fifth-place finish in the men’s 60m (6.93) at the West Point Open and Nebia Montrope’s indoor 800m debut for Essex Community College, where she finished 14th with a time of 2:34.25.

  • Ministry urges water conservation in dry season advisory

    Ministry urges water conservation in dry season advisory

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change has escalated its warnings to Saint Lucian residents and enterprises as the nation progresses into the most arid phase of its annual dry season. With meteorological patterns indicating significantly diminished rainfall—a condition frequently exacerbated by Saharan dust incursions—authorities highlight critical vulnerabilities in domestic water provision, agricultural output, and commercial continuity. The dry season, spanning from December through May, characteristically presents substantial rainfall deficits. Officials caution that absent preemptive action, these persistent arid conditions may precipitate disruptive supply interruptions, diminished agricultural productivity, and heightened operational stress on water distribution services. In response, the Ministry is advocating for a tripartite strategy: strategic water storage, capacity expansion initiatives, and conscientious consumption practices. The public is advised to tailor water storage plans according to household size, usage patterns, and local disruption risks. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is promoted as a sustainable, year-round auxiliary to the treated supply provided by WASCO. Citizens are further encouraged to remain apprised of developments through weekly forecasts and official advisories. Jason Ernest, Director of the Water Resources Management Agency (WRMA), emphasized that systemic resilience is contingent upon immediate collective action. He asserted that bolstering storage infrastructure, adopting rainwater harvesting, and implementing efficiency measures are pivotal strategies for mitigating shortage vulnerabilities and preserving the island’s finite water resources. For additional guidance, the WRMA can be contacted via telephone at 468-5663, 468-5664, or 468-5669.

  • Charles named in Windies squad for World Cup warmups

    Charles named in Windies squad for World Cup warmups

    Cricket West Indies has unveiled a 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan, set to commence on January 19 at the Dubai Cricket International Stadium. The selection features a notable return for veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Johnson Charles, who at 37 years old brings extensive experience from his participation in two World T20 championship victories (2012 and 2016).

    The series serves as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup beginning February 6, with the final tournament squad to be announced following this Afghanistan encounter and preceding a subsequent series against South Africa.

    Charles returns to familiar UAE conditions following an impressive performance in the recently concluded International League T20, where he accumulated 244 runs for Sharjah Warriors. His most recent innings against Afghanistan produced a solid 43 runs at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.

    The squad sees several significant changes due to conflicting commitments and strategic rest periods. Regular captain Shai Hope, along with established players Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, and Sherfane Rutherford, remain unavailable due to participation in the ongoing SA20 tournament. Their absence has prompted the appointment of Brandon King as captain for the series.

    Notable inclusions feature the maiden international call-up for Quentin Sampson, recognized as the Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League. He replaces rested players Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, and Romario Shepherd as part of Cricket West Indies’ workload management strategy.

    The selection also marks the return of fast bowler Shamar Joseph and batsman Evin Lewis, both having successfully completed return-to-play protocols following injury recoveries.

    Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the dual purpose of the series, stating: ‘These competitive matches in subcontinental conditions provide ideal preparation for confidence building ahead of the World Cup. Simultaneously, they offer a valuable platform to reassess players returning from extended absences and those stepping into new roles before final tournament selection.’

    The squad will depart the Caribbean on January 14, coinciding with Charles’ birthday, with arrival in the UAE scheduled for January 16 ahead of the series opener.

  • Pierre promises continuity and confidence in 2026

    Pierre promises continuity and confidence in 2026

    Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has unveiled an ambitious governance blueprint for 2026, emphasizing policy continuity across infrastructure development, social welfare enhancement, and environmental protection. During a pre-Cabinet briefing, the leader articulated his administration’s commitment to maintaining momentum from the previous term, particularly regarding major national projects.

    Infrastructure development constitutes a cornerstone of the government’s agenda. The Gros Islet highway project is scheduled to commence construction within the first half of 2026, while the Hewanorra International Airport terminal development—described as the nation’s largest infrastructure undertaking—advances through international tender processes. Contract confirmation for the airport project is anticipated before March concludes, with construction expected to initiate by mid-2026.

    Social infrastructure receives equal prioritization, with the Gros Islet Police Headquarters nearing completion and slated for inauguration during independence celebrations. Housing initiatives at Talvern and Rockhall will progress significantly, alongside formalized land distribution to long-standing occupants who have resided on government properties for decades.

    Educational reforms will emphasize continuing, adult, and special needs education, addressing functional illiteracy through specialized curricula. The government will strengthen its partnership with the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (CARE) to support vulnerable youth, particularly young men facing social challenges.

    Environmental enforcement will intensify against abandoned vehicles, derelict properties, and unused lands, which Pierre identified as both aesthetic concerns and security risks. Pensioners will benefit from expanded tax relief measures, with legislation ensuring retroactive application for both public and private sector retirees.

    The Prime Minister expressed robust confidence in Saint Lucia’s economic trajectory, highlighting anticipated investments in the hospitality sector and renewed development interest in Rodney Bay and surrounding regions.