Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Odle wins NCC’s Welcome to the Gayelle in Moruga

    Odle wins NCC’s Welcome to the Gayelle in Moruga

    In a triumphant return to competitive form, five-time national stickfighting champion O’Neil Odle emerged victorious at the inaugural National Carnival Commission’s Welcome to the Gayelle tournament. The historic event, held on January 3rd at the Moruga Multi-Purpose Youth and Sport Facility, marked a significant revival of traditional martial arts within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape.

    The competition witnessed fierce athletic displays as more than a dozen nationally-recruited contenders vied for the prestigious top prize of $10,000. Selwyn John secured second position while Terrance Marcano claimed third place in the intensely contested matches that characterized the evening’s proceedings.

    According to the Ministry of Culture and Community Development, the event exceeded organizational expectations with robust community engagement. Over 200 patrons attended the free-admission spectacle, which featured diverse entertainment segments alongside the primary competitive bouts. The ministry emphasized that the tournament series aims to strengthen and preserve the national stickfighting circuit through accessible community-based events.

    Minister Michelle Benjamin personally addressed attendees, highlighting the government’s commitment to cultural preservation. The Welcome to the Gayelle initiative represents a single-round competition format scheduled across multiple communities, combining athletic competition with cultural performances.

    Future installments are confirmed for January 10th at Debe Junction and January 17th at Constantine Park in Tunapuna. All events will commence at 7 PM local time with live streaming available through the NCC’s official YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram platforms, ensuring global accessibility to these cultural showcases.

  • Some new year thoughts

    Some new year thoughts

    In a comprehensive New Year’s address to the nation, Surujrattan Rambachan delivered a poignant reflection on Trinidad and Tobago’s current challenges and future aspirations. The leader acknowledged the profound impact of global crises—from geopolitical conflicts and economic pressures to climate vulnerability—on the Caribbean nation, while emphasizing the distinctive resilience of its citizens.

    Rambachan painted a realistic portrait of domestic concerns affecting households nationwide: escalating living costs, public safety anxieties, economic transitions, and social fragmentation. Yet he countered this narrative by highlighting the enduring strength demonstrated through community solidarity, with educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, and ordinary citizens consistently reinforcing societal foundations.

    The address celebrated Trinidad and Tobago’s unique multicultural identity, noting how diverse religious and cultural traditions—from Divali and Eid to Christmas and Carnival—form the nation’s collective heartbeat. This diversity, Rambachan stressed, represents an active practice rather than mere slogan, requiring continuous nurturing.

    A significant portion of the message focused on reciprocal responsibilities. Leadership must demonstrate integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance, while citizens should uphold respect for legal frameworks and communal spaces. The speaker emphasized that combating crime necessitates addressing root causes through prevention strategies, community engagement, and moral leadership alongside enforcement measures.

    Economic transformation emerged as a critical priority, with calls for diversification beyond energy sectors through investments in technology, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and creative industries. Rambachan insisted that economic success must be measured by inclusive growth that benefits all citizens regardless of background.

    The address specifically addressed youth development, emphasizing the need for educational systems that foster character development and critical thinking alongside academic achievement. Environmental stewardship received urgent attention as well, with warnings about climate threats to the nation’s natural heritage.

    Concluding with a call for personal and collective renewal, Rambachan invoked themes of shared destiny, mutual respect, and hopeful perseverance, wishing citizens a meaningful year ahead guided by cooperation and principle.

  • Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    The Arima Tennis Club hosted a solemn memorial service on January 5th honoring fire officer Bruce Lezama, whose life was tragically cut short in a brutal murder that has shaken both his community and colleagues. The 47-year-old paramedic and ambulance driver, last seen on Christmas Day, was discovered dead near his Arima residence on December 30th after family members grew concerned about his unusual silence during the holiday season.

    Dozens gathered to commemorate Lezama’s nearly 18 years of exemplary service with the TT Fire Service, describing him as a pillar of his community whose dedication extended far beyond his professional responsibilities. Colleagues and relatives remembered him as a disciplined professional who frequently volunteered his off-duty time and utilized his paramedic expertise to train community members in life-saving CPR techniques.

    His brother Perry Bengoche shared poignant memories of Lezama’s character: “He was the kind of person who actively supported the community and helped young people. If you asked Bruce for work, he would inquire about your skills and provide the necessary tools—whether purchasing masonry equipment for builders or grass cutters for landscapers.”

    The investigation into Lezama’s death revealed disturbing details. Family members initially became alarmed when they couldn’t reach him post-Christmas. A visit to his property showed his gate open, television operational, and vehicle missing—highly uncharacteristic behavior for the conscientious fire officer.

    Despite the trauma, family members expressed surprising appreciation for law enforcement’s handling of the case. Bengoche noted, “I previously had my issues with police, but these officers treated us with exceptional respect, care, and emotional sensitivity across all departments—local police, forensics, anti-kidnapping, and homicide.”

    Fire officer Wallen Amdros, representing over 200 colleagues from Lezama’s batch, emphasized the victim’s impeccable character: “I cannot say anything negative about him. He never drank or frequented social gatherings, which makes his tragic passing even more perplexing.”

    The family continues grappling with unanswered questions about the motive behind the killing, with cousin Keva Reyes noting, “He lived simply without flashy possessions or expensive vehicles. This might stem from jealousy or envy, but we truly don’t understand.”

    With support from community networks and Fire Service officials, Lezama’s relatives are navigating their grief while advocating for justice, determined to honor his legacy of service and compassion.

  • Looking forward to next World Cup

    Looking forward to next World Cup

    Following Trinidad and Tobago’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under head coach Dwight Yorke, a passionate public appeal has emerged calling for strategic overhaul of the national football program.

    The critique, published in Newsday’s Letters to the Editor section by Princes Town resident AV Rampersad, argues for fundamental changes in team composition and philosophy. The central recommendation advocates for building the senior squad around young, home-based talent rather than relying on foreign-based professionals, who are perceived to approach domestic matches with insufficient competitive intensity.

    The letter characterizes international friendlies and home matches involving overseas players as ‘fete matches’ where the outcome becomes secondary to entertainment and celebration. This approach, the author contends, undermines serious competitive development when ‘winning is not everything—it is the only thing.’

    Despite the disappointing qualification campaign, the commentary expresses support for retaining Yorke as technical director while completely reimagining player selection criteria. The argument emphasizes that experience will naturally develop through sustained international exposure for domestic league players, creating a more dedicated and affordable national pool.

    The analysis concludes with forward-looking perspective, suggesting the federation should immediately begin constructing a youth-oriented squad capable of mounting a serious qualification bid for the 2030 World Cup cycle through sustained development rather than short-term solutions.

  • Rishi Gayadeen celebrates 40 years in music

    Rishi Gayadeen celebrates 40 years in music

    As Carnival preparations reach fever pitch in Trinidad and Tobago, veteran musician Rishi Gayadeen stands at the helm of both studio productions and live performances, marking an extraordinary 40-year career that has shaped the nation’s soundscape. The 51-year-old musical director, currently leading preparations as bandleader for the Chutney Soca Monarch competition, has already completed approximately 35 productions this season while balancing numerous private engagements.

    Gayadeen’s musical journey represents more than professional achievement—it embodies a lifelong dedication rooted in childhood discipline. Growing up surrounded by his father’s orchestra, The Gayatones, he describes music as haunting his soul from birth. “Being around that band room and rehearsal was a calling for me,” he reflects. “It haunted my soul. Every opportunity I got, I watched them rehearse and I soaked in everything.”

    His formal training began at six years old under his father’s strict guidance: “We were taught to play original East Indian music by dad who told us ‘If you can’t play it close to the record, then don’t play it.’” This foundation in musical authenticity would later expand through exposure to soca, chutney, and reggae artists, sparking what he describes as a fascination with understanding the structure and swing of all genres.

    The pivotal moment arrived when young Gayadeen first entered a recording studio. Witnessing technology transform creative vision into recorded art, he knew music would define his path. By 12, he was performing professionally; by 15, he had entered studio production. This evolution from keyboardist to producer, musical director, and mentor now includes nurturing emerging artists like Avinash Maharaj and Divya Gocool—a responsibility he embraces as repayment for opportunities received.

    Gayadeen’s career highlights include winning the Mastana Bahar competition in 2011 as a solo keyboardist, claiming a $75,000 prize that fulfilled a childhood dream. He credits mentor Kenny Phillips of KMP Studios for crucial guidance, particularly when installing Logic Pro Digital Studio on his laptop with the instruction: “go home and study this until you get it right.”

    Now leading RG The Band—a rebranding effort after 33 years in the industry—Gayadeen emphasizes the importance of evolution while preserving authenticity. “Never forget where you started,” he advises. “Building a foundation and preserving it will always keep you going.”

    Despite four decades of performances, Gayadeen’s passion remains undiminished. With a new recording studio under construction, upcoming tours, and year-round bookings, he affirms: “The stage is my home and I’ll play music till my last breath.” His commitment will culminate on March 22 with “RG Musical Journey,” a live performance showcasing his evolution through Bollywood, chutney, soca, and parang genres.

    Reflecting on his legacy, Gayadeen hopes to be remembered for quality, humility, and helping others achieve their dreams. For aspiring musicians, he offers tempered advice: “Set goals, focus on what you want and work hard toward it. There will be obstacles in your path, but don’t allow it to break your focus.”

    Having dedicated his life to music, Gayadeen concludes with profound certainty: “Music is who I am. I believe people were born to do certain things in this life. I feel blessed and grateful to be still on those stages…making our fans happy.”

  • KFC starts the party for Carnival

    KFC starts the party for Carnival

    In a strategic brand integration move, KFC has officially launched its ambitious ‘KRUNCHNIVAL’ campaign for Carnival 2026, positioning itself as the definitive culinary and cultural partner for Trinidad and Tobago’s premier national festival. The fast-food giant unveiled this multi-platform initiative on January 5th at Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain, opposite its flagship store location.

    The campaign’s centerpiece features an unprecedented musical collaboration between soca sensations Yung Bredda (Akhenaton Lewis) and Destra Garcia, who have reimagined the classic Carnival anthem ‘It’s Carnival’ with contemporary energy. This revitalized track serves as the sonic foundation for KRUNCHNIVAL, blending generations of musical heritage with modern production values.

    Roger Rambharose, Vice President of KFC and Pizza Hut Trinidad and Tobago, characterized the campaign as a deliberate market disruption strategy. ‘Our approach to Carnival season has always been distinctive and impactful,’ Rambharose stated. ‘KRUNCHNIVAL embodies our commitment to delivering exceptional energy, authentic flavor profiles, and tangible customer value while celebrating Carnival through bold, culturally relevant expressions.’

    Marketing lead Stacey Ryan elaborated on the campaign’s philosophical underpinnings: ‘KRUNCHNIVAL emerged from recognizing that Carnival transcends calendar dates—it represents a cultural consciousness that permeates movement, culinary experiences, celebrations, and social connections. We’re not merely participating in Carnival; we’re redefining how brands can authentically integrate with cultural phenomena.’

    The comprehensive campaign will feature limited-edition menu innovations, exclusive Carnival-themed packaging, in-store experiential activations, and strategic digital engagement across social platforms. Consumers can anticipate seasonal promotions and special offerings throughout the Carnival period, with the KFC Trinidad and Tobago mobile application serving as the primary access point for updates and exclusive content.

    This brand initiative represents KFC’s most substantial investment in Carnival integration to date, combining musical partnerships, influencer collaborations, and visual branding transformations across physical and digital landscapes.

  • Gunfire in Caracas

    Gunfire in Caracas

    CARACAS, VENEZUELA – Heightened tensions gripped Venezuela’s capital following a significant security incident near the Presidential Palace of Miraflores on January 5th, which authorities have attributed to communication failures between security units. The episode occurred mere hours after ousted leader Nicolás Maduro made his initial appearance in a United States federal court.

    Multiple international media outlets documented anti-aircraft gunfire and unusual military movements throughout Caracas after dark. Security personnel stationed at the presidential compound reportedly engaged unidentified drones, though no casualties or material damages were officially reported. CNN subsequently circulated verified footage showing anti-aircraft tracer rounds illuminating the night sky above the city.

    Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello Rondon conducted an emergency inspection tour throughout the capital, visiting key locations including Plaza O Leary to assess security deployments. Government sources described the overall situation as calm despite the alarming incident. Official communications from Rondon’s media program, Con El Mazo Dando, emphasized that security forces reported tranquility throughout their monitored zones.

    The palace incident follows the dramatic capture of Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces on January 3rd from a Caracas compound, resulting in 32 Cuban casualties during the extraction operation. The transfer sparked international controversy and divided reactions across political spectrums.

    Maduro entered a plea of not guilty to federal narcotics and weapons charges during his January 5th arraignment in New York, asserting status as a prisoner of war. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s National Assembly convened to inaugurate its 2026-2031 session, swearing in Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader.

    In a late-night Telegram address, Rodríguez vehemently condemned what she termed the ‘kidnapping’ of Maduro, vowing to pursue national sovereignty through unity and peace. ‘I swear I will not rest until Venezuela achieves its rightful destiny as a free, sovereign nation,’ she declared, calling for collective action toward economic stability and social welfare.

  • From Red Force to USA: Katwaroo driving Falcons’ rise and youth development

    From Red Force to USA: Katwaroo driving Falcons’ rise and youth development

    Former Trinidad and Tobago Red Force wicketkeeper-batsman Steven Katwaroo has emerged as a transformative figure in American cricket development since relocating to New Jersey in 2021. The 32-year-old now serves as head coach at Falcons Junior Sports Club in Edison, where he has engineered a comprehensive restructuring of the club’s developmental framework.

    Upon arriving in the United States with foundational coaching credentials, Katwaroo immediately recognized the need for enhanced qualifications. He progressed through the coaching ranks to achieve level four specialist certification, the highest coaching designation. This educational advancement facilitated his implementation of a long-term development strategy that has dramatically elevated the club’s competitive standing.

    The Falcons program has witnessed remarkable transformation under Katwaroo’s leadership. Teams that previously languished at the bottom of league standings have evolved into formidable competitors across multiple age divisions. During the 2024-2025 season, the club secured fourth position in the U13 competition and dominated the U15 preliminary rounds before advancing to the semifinals.

    Katwaroo’s coaching influence now extends beyond the Falcons organization, with private online sessions servicing players across Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. His developmental roster exceeds 50 athletes, many of whom are being groomed for zonal, national, and international selection. A notable success story includes Kriti Dayalu, who progressed from complete novice to U15 national team selection within his program.

    The former Red Force player’s technical expertise has attracted collaborations with international cricketers including West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein and USA national player Jesse Singh. Katwaroo personally designs individualized improvement plans for each athlete while managing the entire coaching staff.

    Despite his substantial workload, which includes evaluating over 150 players as a selector for the US youth development pathway and introducing cricket to approximately 600 students during International Sports Week, Katwaroo remains driven by his profound connection to the sport. “Everything I learnt and achieved in life was through cricket,” he reflects. “I owe my life to the game.”

    Looking forward, Katwaroo plans to refine technical and mental training components during winter months, organize competitive tours, and provide clear pathways toward regional conference selections and national team placements. While focused on American cricket development, he remains open to future opportunities with Trinidad and Tobago or West Indies cricket organizations.

  • Browne: No one knows what US will do

    Browne: No one knows what US will do

    The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US military forces from a fortified Caracas compound on January 3rd has triggered extensive geopolitical analysis. Former finance minister Mariano Browne questions what leverage mechanisms the United States will employ to advance its agenda in Venezuela following this unprecedented intervention.

    President Donald Trump’s January 5th declaration that the US intends to temporarily govern Venezuela underscores Washington’s determined stance. During media interactions, Trump asserted that American oil corporations would enter Venezuela to repair its ‘broken infrastructure’ and generate revenue, though he provided limited operational details.

    Browne, responding via WhatsApp, emphasized the inseparable relationship between politics and economics in global affairs. He characterized the operation as fundamentally concerning regime change rather than narcotics trafficking, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s significant trade relationship with the US makes these developments particularly consequential.

    The former minister analyzed that America’s approach demonstrates resource constraints preventing conventional warfare, instead favoring asymmetric strategies involving limited engagements for maximum leverage. Despite Maduro’s capture, his administrative structure remains intact with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming interim leadership while maintaining Maduro’s legitimate presidency.

    Browne raised critical questions about whether Venezuela’s existing state institutions would align with Washington’s directives. This follows Trump’s dismissal of Rodríguez’s long-term political viability, despite her subsequent diplomatic overture seeking ‘balanced and respectful’ bilateral relations.

    Trump simultaneously expressed skepticism about exiled opposition figure María Corina Machado’s capacity to lead, citing her insufficient domestic support. The administration is currently designating alternative leadership candidates for Venezuela.

    Browne highlighted that Trump’s order intercepting ‘sanctioned oil tankers’ reveals broader objectives beyond regime change, identifying China as the primary target. Venezuela’s discounted oil exports constitute a crucial component of China’s energy import strategy, elevating the confrontation to global financial markets where the US holds advantageous position.

    This event signals potential implications for other Western Hemisphere nations, particularly those previously criticized by Trump including Colombia and Cuba. Colombia’s deployment of border troops following the operation, coupled with Trump’s provocative comments about Colombian leadership, suggests regional instability may intensify.

  • New cargo vessel to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago soon

    New cargo vessel to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago soon

    TOBAGO – In a significant development for inter-island connectivity, Trinidad and Tobago will soon deploy a state-of-the-art passenger and cargo vessel to enhance maritime transportation between the islands. The National Infrastructure Development Company Ltd (Nidco) confirmed on January 6 the acquisition of MV Blue Wave Harmony, which will replace the MV Cabo Star upon lease expiration.

    The new vessel represents the culmination of a meticulously planned procurement initiative designed to optimize operational efficiency at both Port of Spain and Scarborough harbors. According to official statements, MV Blue Wave Harmony is projected to arrive in Trinidad around January 18, subject to weather and maritime conditions.

    This strategic upgrade promises substantial improvements across multiple dimensions of sea transport. The vessel features enhanced cargo capacity with capability to accommodate approximately 125 freight units—a significant increase from the Cabo Star’s 90-trailer capacity—ensuring more consistent and reliable goods movement between islands.

    Passenger experience receives equal attention with the incorporation of 73 private cabins equipped with bedding and bathroom facilities, a 142-seat restaurant offering self-service dining, and dedicated lounge and entertainment spaces. Accessibility features include a passenger elevator, ensuring inclusive access for all travelers.

    Operational reliability marks another critical enhancement, with quadruple main engines providing redundant power systems that minimize service disruptions and improve voyage consistency. Hauliers and commercial transporters will benefit from both improved cargo handling and passenger comfort standards comparable to dedicated passenger ferry services.

    Nidco officials have characterized the MV Blue Wave Harmony as a ‘more capable and reliable vessel’ that will transform the sea bridge infrastructure through reduced transit times, heightened safety protocols, and superior operational performance.