A catastrophic fire in Vega de Oropouche, east Trinidad, on November 7 left three homes and a mini-mart in ruins, but the timely intervention of a vigilant neighbor saved 15 lives, including seven children. The blaze erupted around 3 am in a mini-mart, where LPG gas tanks exploded, rapidly spreading the inferno to adjacent homes. The neighbor, preparing for his market work, noticed the fire and immediately alerted residents by honking his car horn and shouting warnings. His actions prompted the frightened families to flee, though they lost nearly all their possessions. Tragically, a pet dog perished in the flames, and two vehicles were destroyed. Residents expressed frustration over the delayed response from the Sangre Grande Fire Station, which was reportedly locked and unmanned. Firefighters from Arima eventually arrived over an hour later to extinguish the blaze. Taryn Bhola, a resident severely burned while attempting to salvage belongings, described the ordeal as surreal and emphasized the need for better emergency services. Local officials provided immediate aid, including mattresses, food, and access to government grants for rebuilding. The incident has sparked widespread criticism of the fire service’s inadequacies, with Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander acknowledging systemic issues and pledging improvements.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
-
Tobago chamber: Do not depend only on October carnival for $$$
The Tobago Business Chamber has emphasized the need for the island to develop sustainable and profitable ventures beyond its annual October carnival to ensure consistent economic growth. The fourth edition of the festival, ‘Unveiled: Mud, Mas and Music,’ held from October 26-28, drew thousands of visitors, both local and international, and was hailed as the most successful iteration to date since its inception in 2022. However, in a WhatsApp voice note on November 6, Martin George, the chamber’s chairman, highlighted the limitations of relying solely on a seasonal event for financial gains. He stressed that while the carnival is beginning to establish itself on the international stage, Tobago must diversify its tourism offerings to maintain year-round revenue streams. George pointed to Barbados as a model, citing its array of annual events such as the rum and food festival and Run Barbados, which attract tourists consistently. He also suggested that Tobago could capitalize on the growing trend of digital nomadism by improving its infrastructure, particularly high-speed Wi-Fi, to position itself as a paradise for remote workers. George urged stakeholders to adopt a more innovative and proactive approach, moving beyond complaints and creating opportunities to control their economic destiny. ‘Rather than coming with a begging bowl, we should be in control of the kitchen,’ he concluded, advocating for self-reliance and equitable distribution of resources.
-
EFA holders Malabar Youngstars sneak into semis with extra-time win
The Eastern Football Association (EFA) 2025 tournament witnessed intense quarterfinal action on November 2, with reigning champions Malabar Youngstars securing a hard-fought 2-0 extra-time victory over Wallerfield FC at the Arima Velodrome. The match remained scoreless during regulation time, but Malabar Youngstars showcased their championship pedigree in extra-time, with Kendell Boneo and Jeremiah Williams delivering crucial goals to seal their semifinal berth. Williams, last year’s Man of the Match in the EFA final, once again proved pivotal in the team’s success. Wallerfield FC, who finished fourth in Group B, put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short. In another quarterfinal clash at the same venue, Athletic United triumphed over Eastern Connect FC in a dramatic penalty shootout (7-6) after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra-time. Eastern Connect took an early lead through Avery Cabralis, but Marcus Griffith equalized for Athletic United, setting the stage for the nail-biting shootout. Meanwhile, at the Phase 2 La Horquetta Recreation Ground, FC Maloney dominated Heatwave with a commanding 4-1 victory, thanks to goals from Gary Bart, Isaiah Edwards, Saleem Henry, and Kerry Mitchell. In the other La Horquetta quarterfinal, CPC Athletic International Academy (AIA) edged out CG Poseidon 2-1, with Dalon Sankar and Isaiah Isaac scoring the decisive goals. The semifinals, scheduled for November 9 in La Horquetta, will see FC Maloney face Athletic United at 5 pm, followed by Malabar Youngstars versus AIA at 7 pm. The 2025 EFA champions will receive a $15,000 prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 awarded to the second and third-placed teams, respectively.
-
Sabgas ‘excited’ by Kamla’s plan
At the recent unveiling of Trinidad and Tobago’s Revitalisation Blueprint, Ansa McAl’s executive chairman, A. Norman Sabga, and his son, group CEO Anthony N. Sabga III, shared their optimism about the government’s ambitious plans. The blueprint, introduced by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, outlines over 100 construction projects aimed at creating more than 50,000 jobs and revitalizing key areas across the country. Sabga described the initiative as ‘huge’ and emphasized the importance of dreaming big to drive national progress. Speaking at the launch of Ansa McAl’s financial results for the year ending September 30, Sabga III echoed his father’s sentiments, calling the government’s vision ‘ambitious’ and ‘colourful.’ He highlighted the group’s commitment to supporting the government’s efforts, noting that Ansa McAl, which will celebrate its 145th anniversary next year, remains apolitical and focused on sustainable development. The blueprint includes projects such as transforming the Port of Spain waterfront, redeveloping Invaders Bay, and converting prisons into cultural centers and luxury resorts. The Sabgas’ matching yellow ties, coincidentally aligned with the ruling United National Congress’s color, sparked curiosity, but Sabga III dismissed any political connotations, emphasizing the group’s neutrality and dedication to economic growth.
-
Celebrating Kartik Snaan
On November 5, the Ganesh Utsav Foundation in Otaheite became a hub of spiritual fervor as devotees from various regions gathered to celebrate Kartik Snaan, a sacred ritual bath observed during the Hindu holy month of Kartik. This annual event symbolizes spiritual purification, aiming to cleanse the body, mind, and soul of sins and negativity. The two-hour service, led by Pundit Sunil Seetahal-Maharaj, included heartfelt prayers and the offering of personal gifts, reflecting the deep gratitude of the participants. Devotees expressed their thankfulness to God for the simple yet profound blessings of life through this water thanksgiving ritual. The celebration was marked by moments of unity and devotion, as individuals clasped hands in prayer and made offerings at the shoreline, embodying the essence of spiritual renewal and communal harmony.
-
Trinidad and Tobago artistes miss out on Grammy nominations
Despite a robust presence of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) artists in the preliminary considerations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, none secured a nomination. The Recording Academy announced the nominees on November 7, revealing that 18 TT artists were in the running across various categories, including Best Global Music Performance, Best Reggae Album, and Best Jazz Instrumental. Notable contenders included Kes the Band, Machel Montano, and Freetown Collective, who were considered for multiple awards. Kes the Band was in contention for Best Global Music Performance with their track ‘Cocoa Tea,’ while Machel Montano was considered in four categories, including Best Global Music Album for ‘One Degree Hotter.’ Freetown Collective’s ‘Beyond the Machine’ was also a contender in the Best Global Music Album category. Other prominent names included Yung Bredda, Anika Berry, and Etienne Charles, who were considered for their contributions to global music, jazz, and instrumental compositions. Historically, TT has seen Grammy success with artists like Heather Headley and Billy Ocean, but this year’s nominations did not include any local talent. The extensive list of considerations highlights the vibrant and diverse musical talent emerging from TT, even though it did not translate into nominations this time.
-
Pumpkin, spice makes baking nice
Pumpkin, a staple in many cuisines, is celebrated for its versatility and year-round availability. This humble squash, available in varieties like calabaza, rough skin, and rupee, is a traditional ingredient in dishes ranging from peas and pelau to veggie roti and pepper sauce. Its soft flavor makes it a perfect match for warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, and ginger, enhancing both savory and sweet recipes.
-
Yandy Stafford cops Trinidad and Tobago’s first-ever gold at Pan Am Artistic Gymnastics Cup
In a historic achievement for Trinidad and Tobago, young gymnast Yandy Stafford clinched the nation’s first-ever gold medal at the Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup held in El Salvador on November 6. Stafford triumphed in the vault event, delivering a flawless performance that earned her a score of 13.35 and a place in the record books. This milestone marks a significant moment for Trinidad and Tobago in the realm of international gymnastics.
Stafford was part of a five-member national team that traveled to El Salvador on November 3 to compete against some of the region’s most talented young gymnasts. The team included Shanika Joseph, Asia Ali, Zariah Gittens-Dopwell, and Caeli La Roche, representing both the Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) hopes level two and level one divisions. All five athletes participated in the all-around competition on November 5, with Stafford finishing fifth in her division with a total score of 46.75.
On the second day of competition, Stafford showcased her versatility by qualifying for three event finals: vault, beam, and floor. While she placed sixth in the floor exercise with a score of 11.45, her defining moment came during the vault finals. Executing a Yurchenko pike vault with precision and a perfect landing, Stafford secured the gold medal, a first for Trinidad and Tobago in this prestigious event. She later concluded her day with a seventh-place finish on the beam.
The Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup is a biennial event aimed at preparing young athletes for senior elite competition by the age of 16. Following their strong performances in El Salvador, Stafford and her teammates are now gearing up for their next challenge: the 2025 Carifta Artistic Gymnastics Championships, which will be hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Gymnastics Federation (TTGF) in Couva on December 6 and 7.
-
Generating forex vital
The recent closure of Standard Distributors, a longstanding business at the corner of Western Main Road and Calcutta Street in St James, Trinidad and Tobago, after nearly 80 years of operation, underscores the severe economic and financial challenges the country is currently facing. This event serves as a stark reminder of the broader issues plaguing the nation, including a sharp decline in foreign exchange reserves, rising unemployment rates, and an increase in crime. These factors collectively signal a critical juncture for Trinidad and Tobago, necessitating immediate and innovative interventions to prevent further deterioration. To address these challenges, the country must diversify its economic strategies beyond traditional exports. This includes revitalizing local manufacturing sectors, encouraging investments in emerging industries, and leveraging innovative financial solutions such as regional tourism, fintech, and value-added agriculture. Additionally, the return of ExxonMobil and the potential exploitation of Venezuela’s oil reserves near Trinidad and Tobago’s waters could significantly impact the economy if negotiations lead to productive collaborations. Exploring offshore gas opportunities and positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a regional energy hub are also crucial steps. To attract foreign direct investment, promote eco-tourism, and develop human capital, the government must implement proactive policies and foster regional partnerships. Time is of the essence; delaying action in hopes of perfect conditions could be detrimental. The government must act decisively, embracing creative solutions to rebuild confidence, restore stability, and secure a prosperous future for Trinidad and Tobago.
-
TTMA delegation prepares for trade mission to Chile
The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) is set to embark on its inaugural trade mission to Chile from November 10 to 14, marking a significant step in expanding business opportunities and fostering economic ties with Latin America. The mission was officially celebrated during a reception hosted by Chilean Ambassador Hernán Núñez at his residence in Ellerslie Park, Maraval, on November 6. Ambassador Núñez emphasized the importance of this initiative, describing Chile as a nation with a globally open economy and a strategic gateway connecting the Caribbean to Asian markets. He highlighted Chile’s robust export figures, exceeding US$100 billion in 2024, and its network of 35 commercial attachés worldwide. TTMA CEO Dr. Mahindra Ramdeen noted that the delegation includes representatives from 14 companies across sectors such as agro-processing, chemicals, services, and health. He expressed optimism about forging lasting partnerships and accessing new markets. Ismail Ali, the mission’s leader, underscored the significance of this venture as TTMA’s first business engagement in South America, driven by three bilateral agreements signed last year. The mission aims to explore opportunities in Chile and beyond, with plans to expand into markets like Panama, Colombia, and other Caribbean nations. This initiative reflects TTMA’s broader strategy to internationalize Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturing sector, building on recent successful trade missions to New York and the Trade Mission on the Seas 2025. The association has also outlined plans for additional missions to China and follow-up initiatives in New York, signaling a strong commitment to global economic collaboration.