Caribbean
Latest Caribbean stories from across the Black world· 46 stories
BarbadosUnity Workers Union Issues Warning to Portvale Sugar Factory and BESCO
The Unity Workers Union (UWU) has issued a warning to Portvale Sugar Factory and the Barbados Energy and Sugar Company Inc. (BESCO), expressing dissatisfaction among workers as they anticipate the upcoming cane crushing season. Caswell Franklyn, UWU's general secretary, indicated that while operations will continue, there is a palpable tension as employees await potential changes.
Regional AffairsGuyana and Saint Kitts and Nevis Forge New Alliances on Food Security, Agriculture, and Digital Governance
Guyana and Saint Kitts and Nevis have strengthened their bilateral ties with three crucial Memoranda of Understanding aimed at advancing agriculture, food security, and digital governance, signed on April 8, 2026, in Georgetown. This collaboration between President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Terrance Drew underscores a commitment to regional development and innovation.
Regional AffairsSt. Lucia's Key Hospitals Face Critical Funding Shortages, Impacting Patient Care
As St. Jude and OKEU hospitals in Saint Lucia grapple with severe funding shortfalls, concerns grow over whether bureaucratic hurdles are compromising patient care and obstructing the government’s Universal Healthcare objectives. This crisis highlights the critical balance between healthcare infrastructure and the well-being of the people it serves.
BarbadosBarbados Initiates Digital Literacy Program for Seniors Through Central Bank-BARP Partnership
The Central Bank of Barbados and the Barbados Association of Retired Persons have launched a partnership to enhance digital literacy among seniors, enabling them to more effectively engage with evolving financial technologies. This initiative, solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding on April 8, 2026, signifies a critical step towards bridging the digital divide for Barbados' aging population.
JamaicaJamaica's SDC Announces Economic Strengthening Initiatives for 2026/27
The Social Development Commission in Jamaica is set to roll out a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering the local economy for the 2026/27 fiscal year. SDC Executive Director Omar Frith outlined these plans on the JIS television programme ‘Get the Facts’, positioning economic empowerment as a key priority.
JamaicaProfessor Errol Morrison Advocates 'Brain Gain' to Boost Jamaica's Research and Development
In a call to action at the CASE Research Day Expo, esteemed scientist Professor Errol Morrison urged Jamaica to transform the long-standing "brain drain" into a "brain gain" to enhance the nation's research and productivity landscape. Morrison emphasized the crucial need for strategic investment in local talent and innovation as key drivers of economic advancement.
Regional AffairsVirgin Islands to Celebrate Food Heroes at 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition
The Virgin Islands will honour its Food Heroes at the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition & Market, celebrating the vital role of local farmers and fishers under the theme "Farming the Land, Fishing the Seas, Nourishing Lives and Legacies." This weekend event aims to express gratitude and spotlight the critical contributions of those who sustain the region.
BarbadosTrinidad and Tobago Delegation Heads to Venezuela to Negotiate Oil and Gas Interests
A delegation from Trinidad and Tobago, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, plans to visit Venezuela to negotiate a fair distribution of jointly owned oil and gas resources. This move underscores the nation's ongoing efforts to assert its rightful claim in regional energy assets.
BarbadosBarbados Athletics Chief Credits Strategic Vision for CARIFTA Games Success
As Barbados celebrates a triumphant showing at the CARIFTA Games in Grenada, Athletics Association President Noel Lynch attributes the success to strategic planning and unwavering determination. The former Olympian sees this as just the beginning of Barbados' ascent in regional athletics, driven by a forward-thinking vision.
BarbadosBarbados Unions Endorse Government's Infrastructure Plans to Alleviate Traffic Congestion
The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has endorsed the government's initiative to build flyovers and expand roadways to tackle worsening traffic congestion. As Barbados grapples with over 180,000 registered vehicles and a projected rise from incentives for electric vehicles, CTUSAB urges swift action to mitigate the looming gridlock.
BarbadosBarbados Triumphs with 23 Golds at 2026 CARIFTA Aquatic Championships
Barbados showcased its aquatic prowess at the 2026 CARIFTA Aquatic Championships in Martinique, securing an impressive 23 gold medals and a total of 47, despite ranking fourth overall. This remarkable performance underscores their status as a formidable force in Caribbean swimming.
BarbadosJamaican Government Pledges Relocation of Hurricane Melissa Survivors from School Shelters by May 8
In response to Hurricane Melissa's impacts, the Jamaican government has pledged to relocate all individuals still residing in school shelters to appropriate housing by May 8, as announced by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development. This commitment marks a significant move towards restoring normalcy for those affected since the storm's devastation last October.