Carib Scope

标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

圣文森特和格林纳丁斯

  • Bagga primary school launches book of stories, poems

    Bagga primary school launches book of stories, poems

    The Barrouallie Government School has achieved a significant literary milestone with the official publication of its inaugural student-authored anthology, “Little Pens, Big Dreams: Stories and Poems from the Barrouallie Government School Young Authors.” The book launch ceremony, which served as the cornerstone event initiating the school’s Literacy Week celebrations, highlighted the collective creative achievements of its budding writers.

    Presiding over the event, Minister of Education Phillip Jackson emphasized the profound cognitive benefits of writing. “Writing serves as a powerful tool for mental clarification,” Jackson stated. “The practice enables individuals to process complex thoughts, with increased writing directly correlating to enhanced self-awareness and intellectual clarity.” The Minister extended formal congratulations to the student authors, Principal Joy Davis-Haynes, and the school’s dedicated Literacy Committee.

    Adding scholarly insight, Senior Education Officer Mavis Findlay-Joseph delivered a keynote address focusing on the critical connection between writing and self-editing. She outlined a triple-benefit approach for young authors: “Reading your own work aloud facilitates error detection, strengthens cognitive processing, and validates your unique personal voice.” Findlay-Joseph further emphasized that this practice allows students to visualize their ideas more concretely, refine their linguistic expression, and ultimately build substantial confidence in their abilities.

    The anthology represents a tangible outcome of the Early Learners’ Programme, an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Education’s Curriculum Development Unit to enhance literacy engagement nationwide. Featuring 38 original literary compositions, the collection showcases creative works from students across all primary grade levels, from Grade 1 through Grade 6, demonstrating remarkable depth and variety in young literary talent.

  • Zero Hunger Trust Fund launches 10th-anniversary celebrations

    Zero Hunger Trust Fund launches 10th-anniversary celebrations

    Saint Vincent and the Grenadines commemorates a significant milestone in its fight against food insecurity as the Zero Hunger Trust Fund (ZHTF) initiates its 10th-anniversary observances. The landmark celebration commenced with a media launch event in Kingstown, signaling the beginning of a month-long series of engagements designed to highlight the organization’s national contributions.

    Under the thematic banner “Ten Years of Impact – Visioning for the Next Decade,” the anniversary program encompasses a comprehensive schedule of activities running throughout April 2026. These include a National Essay and Art Competition launching April 1, Volunteerism & “Giving Back” Week from April 5-11, a National Thanksgiving and Reflection Service on April 26, and culminating with the Zero Hunger Gala and Awards on April 30.

    Safiya Horne-Bique, Director and CEO of ZHTF, reflected on the organization’s transformative journey from targeted intervention to established national institution. “The Zero Hunger Trust Fund was established with a clear and urgent mission: to ensure that no Vincentian is left behind in their ability to access safe, nutritious food,” Horne-Bique stated. “What began as a targeted intervention has grown into a trusted national institution and a catalyst for long-term resilience.”

    Established through an Act of Parliament on April 6, 2016, the ZHTF has evolved into the nation’s primary mechanism for enhancing food accessibility, reducing vulnerability, and strengthening community resilience. The organization has demonstrated particular significance during national emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 volcanic eruptions, and Hurricane Beryl in 2024, ensuring continuous access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations.

    As part of its anniversary initiatives, the ZHTF will propose designating April 6 as Zero Hunger Day, establishing an annual national observance to maintain awareness and inspire collective action toward food security objectives. The celebrations aim to deepen public understanding of the Fund’s work while strengthening partnerships and encouraging citizen participation in shaping the next phase of the country’s journey toward eliminating hunger.

  • St. Vincent authorities confirm missile strike on vessel in local waters

    St. Vincent authorities confirm missile strike on vessel in local waters

    KINGSTON, St. Vincent (CMC) — St. Vincent and the Grenadines authorities have officially verified that a missile struck a vessel within the nation’s exclusive economic zone last Friday, according to Coast Guard Commander Deon Henry. The confirmation came through eyewitness accounts from local fishermen who were operating near fish aggregating devices (FADs) approximately 45 miles southeast of St. Vincent.

    Commander Henry disclosed during a state media broadcast that the fishermen observed the missile impact while navigating toward fishing zone Number 5, where government-installed FADs attract marine life. The incident location places it squarely within St. Vincent’s maritime jurisdiction, 32 miles east of Canouan Island.

    In response to the security breach, the Coast Guard has intensified safety protocols for maritime workers, emphasizing the critical importance of filing detailed fishing plans, maintaining frequent communication with authorities and families, and using brightly colored vessels for enhanced visibility during potential search and rescue operations.

    National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock expressed profound disappointment that the United States government failed to provide prior notification or official communication regarding the military action in Vincentian waters. While acknowledging the nation’s limited military capacity, Leacock emphasized that sovereignty “is buttressed and ensured, not just by military might or the lack thereof” but through international legal frameworks and diplomatic respect.

    The minister adopted a measured diplomatic approach, recognizing the complex interdependence between the Caribbean nation and the United States, where substantial Vincentian diaspora communities reside. He characterized the relationship as needing “a level cordiality and respect for what they call the big brother in the north” while firmly maintaining that the nation “do not make ourselves a soft target to be taken for granted or disrespected.”

    Leacock simultaneously addressed narcotics trafficking concerns, warning citizens against handling drug parcels that might wash ashore and emphasizing collaboration with law enforcement agencies already strained by regional drug trade pressures. The government continues to await formal communication from US Southern Command regarding the incident while pursuing resolution through international legal channels.

  • Opposition Leader threatens lawsuit against Hot97 FM

    Opposition Leader threatens lawsuit against Hot97 FM

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has announced his intention to initiate legal proceedings against local radio station Hot 97 and its proprietor Luke Boyea regarding allegations concerning a land transaction involving his youngest son. The controversy emerged during broadcast discussions suggesting Gonsalves’ son, Storm Gonsalves, acquired 95 acres of private land in Spring, Bequia through corrupt practices during his father’s administration.

    Gonsalves, who served as head of government for 25 years before his Unity Labour Party’s electoral defeat in November 2025, vehemently denied any governmental involvement in the transaction. He revealed that while his administration had expressed interest in purchasing the property in 2017 through formal correspondence to the owner’s legal representative Errol Layne, the offer was declined at that time.

    The seasoned attorney clarified that the eventual sale occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic period, completely independent of government affairs. Gonsalves emphasized his complete dissociation from the transaction, stating he was unaware of his son’s purchase until after its completion. He issued a stern warning to the radio station owner, whom he identified as his second cousin, declaring, “You’re barking up the wrong tree… I have rights, you know. And you’re tackling a warrior.”

    Defending his 34-year-old son’s capabilities, Gonsalves described Storm as a risk-taking entrepreneur fully capable of defending his business decisions. Meanwhile, Boyea has publicly expressed confusion regarding the specific defamation claims, indicating he would await formal legal correspondence while maintaining skepticism about Gonsalves’ claimed unawareness of his son’s land acquisition.

  • Vincies urged to resist ‘sea lotto’ temptation as cocaine washes ashore

    Vincies urged to resist ‘sea lotto’ temptation as cocaine washes ashore

    St. Vincent and the Grenadines faces escalating drug trade complications as National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock issued a urgent public warning on Thursday regarding cocaine packages washing ashore. The minister specifically instructed citizens to immediately report any drug parcels found at sea or on beaches to law enforcement authorities, emphasizing that attempting to profit from such discoveries would not be tolerated.

    This development follows courtroom revelations that local police informally refer to maritime cocaine discoveries as “sea lotto”—a term that surfaced during legal proceedings involving two fishermen charged with possession and trafficking of 22.9 pounds of cocaine. Defense attorney Grant Connell disclosed this terminology while representing Sebastian Audain and Alvin Cyrus, whose cases have drawn attention to the wider implications of recent US military operations in the region.

    The situation escalated dramatically with confirmation from SVG Coast Guard Commander Deon Henry that US drone strikes destroyed two vessels within the nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) earlier this week. These military actions, which resulted in multiple casualties including St. Lucian nationals, occurred without prior notification to Vincentian authorities according to Minister Leacock, who expressed diplomatic concern over the breach of sovereign protocols.

    The national security minister articulated disappointment regarding Washington’s failure to consult Kingstown before executing military operations within its jurisdictional waters. While acknowledging the power disparity between the nations, Leacock emphasized commitments to international legal frameworks and sovereign rights through regional alliances including the OECS and CARICOM. He assured citizens that the matter would be pursued through appropriate diplomatic channels while strengthening domestic security measures against narcotics trafficking.

    Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert as the ministry collaborates with police, coast guard, and auxiliary services to manage the increased drug influx. Officials attribute the floating cocaine packages to the destruction of trafficking vessels, which has created unintended opportunities for civilians to encounter drugs at sea—a phenomenon now requiring coordinated public awareness and response strategies.

  • PM says no official info received on deadly US strikes on boats

    PM says no official info received on deadly US strikes on boats

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Caribbean leaders are demanding answers following a controversial United States military operation in the Caribbean Sea that resulted in multiple fatalities. Prime Minister Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines characterized the incident as “deeply concerning” during a national address, highlighting the potential threat to regional maritime safety.

    The operation, conducted by the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), targeted a vessel allegedly engaged in narcotics trafficking. Military officials confirmed a “lethal kinetic strike” resulted in three fatalities described as “narco-terrorists.” However, Caribbean authorities have received no official confirmation regarding the identities or nationalities of the deceased, though unconfirmed reports suggest they may have been St. Lucian nationals.

    Prime Minister Friday announced that National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock would provide a formal statement, emphasizing that while information remains preliminary, the government is “actively seeking definitive answers through diplomatic channels.” The Prime Minister expressed particular concern for fishermen and maritime workers, noting that such military actions introduce unprecedented risks to those who depend on Caribbean waters for their livelihood.

    The incident has drawn parallels to previous US counter-narcotics operations in the region. Last month, families of two Trinidadian men killed in an October strike filed a lawsuit against the US government, while international legal experts continue to question the legality of such operations under international law.

    St. Lucian Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre confirmed his administration is engaged in diplomatic discussions, stating that while fatalities occurred, official circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear. Meanwhile, footage released by SOUTHCOM shows a missile strike obliterating a vessel, and debris believed to be from the incident has reportedly washed ashore near Canouan Island.

    Prime Minister Friday, emphasizing the archipelagic nature of his nation, stated that maritime security remains paramount for regional stability. He urged citizens to remain vigilant while assuring them that authorities would pursue all necessary measures to ensure their safety in territorial waters.

  • Police urge calm even as US strikes threaten SVG’s fishing industry

    Police urge calm even as US strikes threaten SVG’s fishing industry

    Tensions are mounting in the Eastern Caribbean as St. Vincent and the Grenadines fishermen express grave concerns over their safety and economic stability following recent U.S. military operations in regional waters. The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed conducting multiple “lethal kinetic strikes” between February 13-16 against vessels allegedly operated by “Designated Terrorist Organizations” engaged in narcotics trafficking, resulting in 11 fatalities.

    While U.S. authorities characterized the operations as targeted actions against narco-terrorists, local fishing communities report the strikes occurred dangerously close to fishing grounds. Winsbert Harry, President of SVG’s National Fisherfolk Organisation, revealed that one February 13 strike occurred approximately 9 miles from Fish Aggregating Device No. 5—a critical fishing area located about 60 miles southeast of St. Vincent in the Grenadines.

    The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force issued a statement acknowledging public concern while attempting to reassure mariners. “The information received so far suggests that this was a targeted, intelligence-led operation and not directed at fishing vessels or ordinary maritime activity,” the statement read, emphasizing that coast guard services remain “present and alert within our maritime space.”

    However, fishing representatives highlight the devastating potential impact on SVG’s blue economy—a key development pillar for the new administration. With nearly 1,000 registered fishing boats landing approximately 10 million pounds of fish valued at EC$16 million in exports last year, the industry faces significant disruption. Fishermen now fear traveling during pre-dawn hours when tuna are most active, potentially reducing catches and threatening livelihoods.

    The National Fisherfolk Organisation is coordinating with regional partners including the Caribbean Network of Fisher Folk Organisations and Caribbean Fisheries Mechanism to develop a unified response. Harry emphasized the need for “one voice to CARICOM” to address security operations that endanger civilian fishing activities in shared Caribbean waters.

  • Fisherman pleads guilty to possession of 22.9lbs of cocaine

    Fisherman pleads guilty to possession of 22.9lbs of cocaine

    A significant drug enforcement operation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has resulted in criminal proceedings against two individuals following the seizure of substantial narcotics. Sebastian Audain, a 36-year-old fisherman from Lowmans Bay known as “Bush,” has entered a guilty plea for possession and trafficking of 22.9 pounds of cocaine confiscated by authorities in West Kingstown. Meanwhile, his co-defendant Alvin Cyrus, also 36 and from Largo Height, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    The successful interdiction emerged from a coordinated effort involving multiple specialized police units, including Narcotics, Rapid Response, and Special Services teams. While authorities have not disclosed the exact community within the constituency where the drugs were discovered, they emphasized the operational significance of the seizure.

    Audain remains in custody awaiting sentencing scheduled for Thursday at the Layou Magistrate Court. Cyrus has been granted bail set at EC$30,000 and is required to reappear before the Serious Offences Court on March 2 for further proceedings.

    In an official statement, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force highlighted the importance of inter-departmental cooperation in combating drug trafficking. “The success of this undertaking highlights the value of specialized units moving in unison to address specific threats to our communities,” the statement read. “When these divisions align, they create an operational reach necessary to intercept illegal substances before they circulate further.”

    Law enforcement officials emphasized that the presence of such substantial narcotics quantities in residential areas demonstrates the ongoing challenges in maintaining community safety. The police force reaffirmed its commitment to persistent monitoring and intervention against organized drug activities, acknowledging the crucial role of public cooperation in these efforts.

    Authorities have encouraged citizens with relevant information to contact Police Control at 457-1211 or the Public Relations and Complaints Department at 485-6891, assuring complete confidentiality for all tips provided.

  • Burn victim dies hours before travel to US for advanced care

    Burn victim dies hours before travel to US for advanced care

    In a devastating turn of events, 16-year-old Sylvester Rodney, known affectionately as ‘Small Man,’ passed away at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on Tuesday night—just two days before his scheduled medical evacuation to the United States. The autistic teenager from Roseau had sustained severe burns during a residential fire last Friday evening, compounding existing health complications.

    Rodney, who resided with his mother Jasmine in Lower Roseau, suffered critical injuries to his hands and buttocks in the blaze. The incident occurred while the teenager was inside their concrete home and his mother was outdoors with relatives. Initial suspicions of neighboring trash burning quickly escalated when smoke was discovered emanating from the bedroom adjacent to the right-side neighbor’s property.

    Family members immediately alerted an uncle stationed at the front gate, prompting the mother’s courageous rescue operation. The distressed teenager was brought into the yard where emergency cooling measures were administered with water. A nearby healthcare professional provided initial assistance before formal emergency teams arrived.

    The St Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC) crew was first to respond within minutes, followed shortly by firefighters from the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force. By their arrival, the fire had already been extinguished and the injured adolescent moved to safety.

    Rodney was wrapped in transparent sheeting—believed to be plastic—and transported to medical facilities. Beyond the burn injuries, the youth had been managing pre-existing kidney conditions that deteriorated post-accident. His medical regimen included medications for hyperactivity management, with additional prescriptions following the traumatic injuries.

    The anticipated transfer to advanced U.S. healthcare facilities, scheduled for Thursday, was rendered heartbreakingly unnecessary by Rodney’s passing. The community now mourns the loss while grappling with questions about emergency response protocols and healthcare accessibility for disabled individuals in critical situations.

  • Student among 5 people remanded in prison over fight at KFC

    Student among 5 people remanded in prison over fight at KFC

    A violent public disturbance inside a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in Kingstown has resulted in five individuals being formally charged and remanded in custody. The accused—Kezron Peters (17), Jasrick (16), Gabrielle Haywood (18), Veron Holder (17), and Ivorn Thomas (23)—appeared before the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, each pleading guilty to a single charge of affray.

    The incident, which occurred on February 13, was captured on video and circulated widely across social media platforms, showing multiple individuals engaged in a physical altercation and using objects from the customer area as weapons. According to investigative reports, the confrontation began following an argument between Peters and another individual after they had attended the Bethel High School sports event at Independence Park.

    The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) issued a strong public statement condemning the behavior, characterizing it as “reckless and wholly unacceptable.” The police emphasized that such public confrontations will not be tolerated and vowed to identify and prosecute all those involved. An active investigation is underway, with authorities reviewing video evidence and witness accounts to identify additional participants.

    Law enforcement officials are urging members of the public who witnessed the event or possess relevant recordings to come forward and assist investigators by calling 1784-457-1211. The defendants have been remanded in prison until March 2, pending the presentation of facts and formal sentencing.