Eye Care Technology

How low-cost, high-impact technology can transform healthcare delivery in remote settings

Smartphones, AI, and Glasses: Reaching Remote Communities with Portable Eye Care

By Natalia Monica Laguyas, Leonardo Goes Shibata, Caio Abujamra, Frank Hida

About 80% of our interaction with the world happens through our eyes.  Now imagine gradually losing your sight while living in a remote Indigenous community in Brazil, far from specialized care.  How hard would it be to carry out your daily activities?

This is the challenge that Aldeia em Foco (“Village in Focus”) set out to solve.  Supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), IDB Lab, and partners such as the Suel Abujamra Institute, GoodVision, and Japan’s OUI Inc., the project delivers accessible eye care to some of the most isolated regions of the Amazon.

Trained community workers can perform screenings in just 15 minutes using a smartphone, a small camera attachment and AI-powered image analysis.  Images are uploaded to the cloud, where AI detects abnormalities and connects patients to specialists remotely.  This simple, low-cost model removes logistical barriers to eye care in places without medical infrastructure.

Immediate Solutions, Lasting Impact

In addition to diagnosis, Aldeia em Foco provides on-site vision correction through GoodVision’s modular glasses, which can be assembled and adjusted to each person’s needs within minutes—addressing about 70% of visual problems detected.

So far, the project has reached over 100 villages in 11 Brazilian states, delivering 25,000 screenings, 18,000 consultations, 16,000 glasses, and nearly 370 surgeries.   It has also trained almost 700 local workers for basic eye health access, creating a sustainable care network that continues beyond project visits.

'Saving a patient’s vision is almost as important as saving their life'

— Dr. Eisuke Shimizu, ophthalmologist and CEO of OUI Inc., which developed the Smart Eye Camera (SEC) used in the project.

This approach also makes economic sense.  According to the Value of Vision study by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, every $1 invested in eye health yields $28 in return. In Brazil, an investment of $295 million between 2026 and 2030 could generate $8 billion in economic benefits.  Better vision means higher productivity, more active older adults, and stronger communities—proof that eye care is not only a health priority but a smart investment in inclusion and growth.

Scaling Health Innovation for Broader Impact

Aldeia em Foco shows how low-cost, high-impact technology can transform healthcare delivery in remote settings.  Its model—combining innovation, training, and international collaboration—offers a replicable blueprint for inclusive healthcare innovations across Latin America and beyond.

Highlighting the global collaboration and innovation, this project has already received an IDB Innovation Award that focuses on its potential to transform healthcare delivery in underserved regions.

By integrating this approach into public programs and exploring partnerships with the private sector, countries can expand access to essential eye care while strengthening resilience and equity in their health systems.

Restoring sight means restoring independence, dignity, and opportunity.  And as Aldeia em Foco proves, a clearer vision for one person can illuminate the path toward a healthier, more prosperous and inclusive future for all.

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The Bahamas Government Cannot Explain $1.56M Contract or Its Own Role in Approving It

The Bahamas Prime Minister, The Hon. Philip Edward Davis - as the minister responsible for the Public Procurement Unit, must explain how his administration has committed more than $400M in public Works through no-bid contracts in clear violation of the Public Procurement Act

FREE NATIONAL MOVEMENT, 144 MACKEY STREET, P.O. BOX N-10713 | NASSAU, N.P., THE BAHAMAS - (242) 393-7853

Dr. Duane Sands, Chairman of the Free National Movement: Questions Multiply as Government Cannot Explain $1.56M Contract or Its Own Role in Approving It

The Free National Movement is pleased that our inquiry into the government's $1.56M no-bid contract has finally forced the government to respond.  Unfortunately, the explanation offered by the chairman of the Public  Procurement Board raises even more troubling questions.

Instead of clarity, the public has been given a justification that defies logic, contradicts basic procurement standards, and deepens concerns about how and why this contract was awarded.  There is still no credible explanation for why a contract of this size was handed out without competitive bidding when government personnel reportedly valued the scope of works at no more than $450,000.

If the issue was truly urgent, the chairman's own admission that there was enough time to secure an external valuation proves that there was also enough time to invite capable Bahamian contractors to compete for the job.

This was not an unforeseen emergency.  lt was a known problem that could have and should have gone to tender.

We still do not know why the Bahamian taxpayer is carrying the full cost of major repairs in a building where the government is a tenant.  The public deserves to know why the landlord is not responsible for these extensive upgrades and remediation works.  That basic question remains unanswered.

We also cannot accept the government's attempt to justify why this contract was routed through the Ministry of Finance rather than through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Works, both of which have the mandate and expertise for such matters.

The Public Finance Management Act already gives the Ministry of Finance the authority to reallocate resources to any agency that needs them.  The public must ask why the Ministry of Finance became the signatory on a foreign affairs contract, particularly in a procurement environment already clouded by secrecy and political interference.

Now that the Procurement Board has broken its silence, the Prime Minister must answer for the larger pattern this contract represents.  As the minister responsible for the Public Procurement Unit, he must explain how his administration has committed more than $400M in public Works through no-bid contracts in clear violation of the Public Procurement Act . The law requires competitive bidding except in narrow circumstances.  This government continues to ignore that law and award contracts to hand-picked companies without transparency or accountability.

The Bahamian people deserve to know why these deals continue to be signed behind closed doors.  They deserve to know who approves them.  They deserve to know who benefits.  And they deserve a government that respects the rules instead of bending them to suit political allies.

This contract is not an isolated incident.  It is part of a wider culture of mismanagement and insider advantages that has defined the PLP's record.  The FNM will continue to demand answers and continue to fight for transparent, accountable procurement practices that protect taxpayers and support fair competition for Bahamian contractors.

December 1, 2025

Viewpoint on The Golden Isles By-Election

Perspectives on The Golden Isles By-Election - Monday 24 November, 2025

From Sean McWeeny, former PLP Cabinet Minister and Attorney General

Some random takeaways on yesterday’s bye-election:

1. That crown on Pintard’s head can rest more securely today than yesterday.   By performing impressively in yesterday’s bye-election (even winning a majority of the polling divisions 8-6), the FNM and Pintard can point to all that as evidence that he is indeed a viable leader of a resurgent Party - no need to send a SOS out to Papa!

2. The COI lost its deposit yesterday (you need to get more than 1/6th or 16.6% of the total votes cast to save your deposit).  With only 6% of the vote, the COI fell well short of that.

Frankly, for all the noise they were making and all the social media coverage they were getting, I thought they would have done better than they did (then again voters may have had Lincoln-fatigue by the end of it all). Still, they prevented the PLP from winning an outright majority of the total votes cast yesterday.  It could also be argued that the COI cost the FNM the election yesterday by garnering 221 votes which, if added to the FNM’s tally, would have given the FNM the victory.  But that’s what spoilers do.   And the COI are certainly shaping up to be spoilers in “close“ seats in the next General Election. Bottom line : they can't win but they can cause you to lose.

3. Darren Pickstock has a lot to be personally proud of and so do Brave Davis, Jerome Fitzgerald and Kevin Simmons (the latter two as campaign managers).  Darren came into Golden Isle a virtual unknown to constituents (in contrast to the FNM’s candidate who had good solid history there).  In just 41 days, Darren made the rounds, showed himself to be a class act from start to finish, and ended up in victory.

4. Finally, the PLP has its work cut out for it.  Yesterday’s results will no doubt be seen (and felt) as a knock in the head, all the more so when one considers the massive firepower and resources the government had brought to bear.

All of it turned out to be a bit underwhelming if the final count is anything to go by.  But the PLP will no doubt see the results as a call to re-assess, reset, and do some things differently in the run-up to the Big One.  If, however, yesterday’s results are interpreted as an affirmation that all is hunky-dorry and right on track, or if nothing but excuses are forthcoming now as to why the PLP didn’t get more votes yesterday, the cycle that has seen every single governing party in the past five General Elections get tossed out after just one term is bound to repeat itself - again.  Sean

Rick Fox Declares His Intention to Enter Frontline Politics in The Bahamas

The prosperous future of The Bahamas depends on the choices we make right now

The Bahamas: It’s Better To Be Number One

The Bahamas Must Be First and It Must Start Now.

Today, I’m announcing that I will be a candidate in the next general election.

For months, I’ve been listening closely to the hopes and frustrations of my fellow Bahamians.  One truth is clear: the future of The Bahamas will depend on the choices we make right now.

You’ve shared that you want more  transparency, a modern economy that prioritizes affordability and security, and a country where opportunity is our reality, not just a promise.

I share that vision. 

And I’m stepping forward today because we cannot wait any longer to realize a Bahamas that we all envision is possible.

Why Now?

We are running out of the one resource we can never get back: TIME.

•⁠ ⁠The time we need to empower our youth with real opportunities.

•⁠ ⁠The time we need to build a nation that runs efficiently, innovates boldly, and leads globally.

•⁠ ⁠The time we need to deliver world-class healthcare, affordable housing, and safe communities.

•⁠ ⁠The time we need to compete on the global stage.

Hurricane Future isn’t coming.  Hurricane Future is here. 

Our Direction

Scripture teaches: “Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long upon this earth.”

We should also honor the fathers and mothers of our nation.  Their legacy brought us to this moment.  Our responsibility now is to move The Bahamas forward. 

We must move with clarity.  We must move with courage.  We must move with honor and integrity.

We will embrace innovation, education, security and opportunity as the pillars of our future.

We will build a future where Bahamians can compete, influence, and lead globally without having to ever leave home.

We will trust in the lord with all of our hearts.  We will not lean on our own understanding and in all of our ways, we will acknowledge him and he will direct our path.

This is Our Moment 

As a candidate and as a leader for The Bahamas I will demand transparency, honesty, integrity while demanding a level of excellence from all of us.

This is bigger than party politics.  This is The Bahamas versus the world.  Imagine a nation where every Bahamian feel secure, safe, empowered, and proud.  Where opportunity flows, innovation thrives, and our people shape the world from home.

More is on the way. 

The Bahamas will lead.  The Bahamas will rise.  The Bahamas will be #1.

It’s Better to Be Number One in The Bahamas.

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The Caribbean Climate Reality

Against the backdrop of a devastating hurricane season that once again underscored the region’s extreme vulnerability, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) will take the Caribbean’s climate agenda to the global stage at the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, scheduled for November 10–21 in Belém, Brazil.

The Bank will lead and participate in a series of events, high-level discussions and bilateral engagements aimed at securing greater access to concessional climate finance and strengthening partnerships for sustainable development.  CDB President, Mr. Daniel M. Best said this intensified engagement reflects both the urgency and opportunity of the moment.

“The Caribbean’s climate reality has never been clearer or more urgent,” he emphasised.  “The recent passage of Hurricane Melissa has underscored what we’ve been warning for years: without predictable, concessional finance, small island states cannot keep pace with escalating climate impacts.  COP30 is one of the most consequential arenas for advancing our case for climate justice and fair financing, and the Caribbean Development Bank will ensure our region’s voice is heard.”

At COP30, the Bank strategically engage governments, international partners, and private investors to deepen partnerships and advocate for increased concessional financing and innovative mechanisms to mobilise resources for the region.  On Monday, November 17, 2025, CDB will co-host three side events that reflect key priorities for climate action and resilience in the Caribbean.

The first session, “Leveraging Private Sector Financing for Transport and Energy Sector Transformation in the Caribbean,” will be held from 10:30 - 11:30 am (BRT) at the CARICOM Pavilion.  The event will explore strategies to unlock private capital through blended finance models, risk-sharing instruments, and innovative partnerships to accelerate investment in renewable energy and sustainable transport systems.

A discussion on “Agriculture and Food Security in the Caribbean: Scaling Innovative Solutions for Climate-Resilient Agriculture” is slated for 12:00 - 1:00 pm (BRT) at the Food and Agriculture Pavilion.  The livestreamed event will spotlight climate-smart agricultural practices and investment opportunities that can strengthen food security and reduce the region’s dependence on imports.

CDB will also join forces with CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean,  the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) and the CREWS Secretariat to turn attention to disaster preparedness with a panel on “Climate Information and Early Warning Systems for Latin America and the Caribbean”  Scheduled for 3:45–4:45 pm (BRT) at the CARICOM Pavilion, the discussion will explore initiatives by the three institutions to finance and implement early warning systems for the region.

“CDB’s agenda at COP30 underscores our approach to climate action, which is practical, innovative, and built on partnerships,” President Best noted.  “The Caribbean is helping itself by developing our own solutions to protect lives, preserve livelihoods and transform our energy, transport and agriculture systems to secure our future, but we need the global community to stand with us.”

CDB targets 30-35% of its resources to climate finance demonstrating its commitment to helping Borrowing Member Countries adapt to the accelerating climate crisis.  The Bank is also better positioned to deliver transformative regional interventions through a recent increase in its GCF financing threshold to USD 250 million and its new Climate Change Project Preparation Fund, both of which will help countries design and finance concrete, high-impact projects faster and more effectively.

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Grenada 19 October, 1983

1983 Coup D'état - Grenada

By Everton Obi Powell

Maurice Rupert Bishop (29 May 1944 – 19 October 1983) was a Grenadian revolutionary and the leader of the New JEWEL Movement (NJM) – a party that sought to prioritorize socio-economic development, education and black liberation.  The NJM came to power during the 13 March 1979 revolution which removed Prime Minister Eric Gairy from office.  Bishop headed the People's Revolutionary Government of Grenada (PRG) from 1979 to 1983.  In October 1983, he was deposed as Prime Minister and executed during a coup engineered internally by Deputy Prime Minister Bernard Coard.

In September 1983, simmering tensions within PRG leadership reached a boiling point.  A faction within the party, led by Deputy Prime Minister Bernard Coard, tried to make Bishop either step down or agree to a power-sharing arrangement.  Bishop rejected the proposal.

In response, the Coard faction in conjunction with the PRA placed Bishop under house arrest on 13 October.  Large public demonstrations gathered to demand Bishop's release and his return to power.  The protesters numbered as high as 30,000 on an island of 100,000, and even some of Bishop's guards joined the protests.  Despite the sizable support, Bishop knew the determination of the Coard faction.  He confided to a journalist: "I am a dead man."

On 19 October, a crowd of protesters managed to free Bishop from house arrest.  He made his way, first by truck, then by car, to army headquarters at Fort Rupert (known today as Fort George), which he and his supporters were able to seize control of.

At that point, Coard dispatched a military force led by Hudson Austin from Fort Frederick to retake Fort Rupert.  Bishop and seven others, including his cabinet ministers and aides, were captured.

A four-man PRA firing squad executed Bishop and the others by machine-gunning them in the Fort Rupert court yard.  After Bishop was dead, a gunman slit his throat and cut off his finger to steal his ring.  The bodies were transported to a military camp on the peninsula of Calivigny and partially burned in a pit.  The location of their remains is still unknown.

Partly as a result of Bishop's murder, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the nations of Barbados and Jamaica appealed to the United States for assistance, as did Sir Paul Scoon, Governor-General of Grenada.  Within days, President Ronald Reagan launched a U.S.-led invasion to overthrow the PRG.

US invaded within 6 days with 8000 soldiers.  Bernard Cord and Hudson Austin were captured and sentence to death but sentences were commuted to Life.

Austin was release in 2008 and died from cancer in 2022.  The final U.S. report claims 19 killed and 116 wounded; the Cubans to have had 25 killed, 59 wounded and 638 "combatants" captured; the Grenadians to have suffered 45 killed and 358 wounded.

Violence and death surrounded Bishop family.  In 1974 his father Rupert was shot in the back and killed at by Eric Gairy Mongoose Gang during a protest.  Maurice himself was shot and killed during the 1983 execution.  His son's mother and girlfriend was killed during the 1983 execution and his only son Vladimir was stabbed to death in a Toronto nightclub at only 16.

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The Politically Immature and Thuggish Lincoln Bain

Mr. Lincoln Bain, Your childish apologies have become meaningless, weak, and lack substance

Mr Lincoln Bain, refrain from violence.  Focus on substance over spectacle, and let your vision for The Bahamas speak for itself

By Maria Russell
Freeport, G.B. Island, The Bahamas
In response to Tribune242 FaceBook Post,  Pintard Condems Lincoln Bain...

I'm not taking sides, but bullying, intimidation, and fear have no place in a democracy.  That was not the time and place.  It only takes away from the message of the protest.  These silly antics are a turn-off on all levels.  Mr. Pintard has nothing to prove.  He's already a Member of Parliament and the Official Opposition Leader by law as outlined in our constitution.

Mr. Bain, you, on the other hand, have a lot to prove to the Bahamian people, especially if you're serious and ready for mainstream politics.  To get into parliament, one would think that maturity, political sportsmanship, and a willingness to engage in respectful dialogue would be essential.  If you two have a personal beef, maybe it would be wise to settle it out of the political spectrum.

You don't want to be known more for your radicalism than your message.  Having the loudest mouth is unnecessary and a turn-off.  Your apologies will become meaningless, weak, and lack substance.  Antics and polarization won't get you elected.  Empathy and humility will.

Refrain from violence.  Focus on substance over spectacle, and let your vision for the country speak for itself.  If the populace is to take you seriously, you must demonstrate leadership worthy of representing the Bahamas both domestically and internationally.  Your actions will be scrutinized globally, so it's crucial to maintain a level of maturity and statesmanship.  Anything less, undermines your message and credibility.

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