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Trailblazer honored: Minister Audrey Marks receives 2026 Golden Heart Award

Audrey Marks

Jamaica’s Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Ambassador Audrey Marks, was among nine diplomats from around the world honored with the 2026 Golden Heart Award by Tree of Life Foundation International at a gala held Monday night at The Breakers Palm Beach Resort.

The ceremony, attended by more than 300 dignitaries, including current and former ambassadors, recognized diplomats whose service has extended beyond traditional diplomacy to deliver meaningful impact for their countries and communities.

Presenting the award, Tree of Life Foundation Founder and President Amanda Schumacher praised Marks for her leadership and generosity, crediting her with having “transformed lives and strengthened communities” throughout her career.

Accepting the honor, Marks said she was deeply appreciative of the recognition and the foundation’s mission.

“It is my honor to accept the 2026 Golden Heart Award from the Tree of Life Foundation International,” she said. “I am truly pleased to be recognized among such distinguished global ambassadors who share a commitment to service, compassion, and the advancement of humanity.”

Marks described the foundation’s work as “both inspiring and profoundly aligned with my own values,” and commended its “holistic and far-reaching approach” to empowering vulnerable communities worldwide.

She also extended an invitation to Schumacher to consider establishing the organization’s 23rd branch in Jamaica, noting that she has already identified suitable lands for the initiative—an offer underscoring her commitment to turning recognition into tangible benefits for her homeland.

A career of firsts

Marks is a two-time trailblazer in Jamaica’s diplomatic history. When she assumed duties at Jamaica’s Embassy in Washington in May 2010, she became the first woman to serve as Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States. Her return to the post in September 2016 marked another milestone, making her the only individual ever appointed to the position under two different administrations—first under former Prime Minister Bruce Golding and later under Prime Minister Andrew Holness onth of the Jamaica Labour Party.

Born in St. Mary in 1968, Marks’ professional journey began far from the diplomatic stage. While working as a filing clerk at Air Jamaica, she pursued undergraduate studies at the University of the West Indies, Mona. She later built a successful entrepreneurial career, founding six businesses, including Paymaster Jamaica Limited, the country’s first consolidated bill payment agency, which grew to serve more than 1.4 million customers.

Diplomatic legacy

During nearly a decade representing Jamaica in Washington, Marks strengthened bilateral cooperation in areas including security, trade, and investment. She also championed scholarship programs and university exchanges, expanding opportunities for young Jamaicans to access higher education in the United States.

When she concluded her ambassadorial tenure in March 2025, Prime Minister Holness praised her “sterling leadership.” In 2024, she was awarded the Order of Jamaica, the country’s fourth-highest national honor, before assuming her current ministerial role.

Founded in 2006, Tree of Life Foundation International operates 22 branches worldwide, connecting resources to address needs ranging from education and housing to disaster relief and human rights. Its Golden Heart Award honors ambassadors whose service translates diplomatic privilege into lasting, real-world impact.

In honoring Marks, the foundation recognized a figure whose journey—from rural St. Mary to Washington’s diplomatic corridors, and now to the center of Jamaica’s digital transformation agenda—continues to inspire Jamaicans at home and abroad.

James Reyes sworn in as Miami city manager

James Reyes

James Reyes was officially sworn in on Monday as City Manager of Miami during a formal ceremony held in the lobby of the Miami Riverside Center, marking the start of a new chapter in the city’s leadership.

Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins, along with city employees and officials, attended the event to welcome Reyes into his new role overseeing the day-to-day operations of city government.

“Today marks a new chapter for the City of Miami,” Higgins said. “As City Manager, James Reyes brings the experience, integrity, and steady leadership needed to ensure our City government works for everyone. I look forward to working alongside him as we continue building a stronger, more responsive Miami.”

Reyes, who now assumes responsibility for implementing policies set by the mayor and city commission, emphasized collaboration, accountability, and results as priorities for his administration.

“I am honored to serve as City Manager for the City of Miami,” Reyes said. “I look forward to working with the Mayor, City Commission, City employees, and our residents to deliver results, strengthen City services, and move Miami forward with transparency and purpose.”

The swearing-in comes as Miami continues to navigate growth, infrastructure demands, and service delivery challenges, with city leadership signaling a renewed focus on effective management and public trust under Reyes’ tenure.

$100M deficit looms as Broward School board member calls out wasteful spending

More Than 125 Colleges, Universities, Technical Schools and Military Branches participating in Broward County College Fair

Broward County School Board Member Adam Cervera will hold a press conference on Tuesday, January 13, to highlight what he describes as significant financial and oversight failures within Broward County Public Schools, as the district grapples with a near $100 million budget deficit.

The press conference comes amid a period of financial strain for the nation’s sixth-largest school district, which has implemented a hiring freeze and is weighing potential school closures to close budget gaps.

According to Cervera, the district has been entangled in a series of recent controversies that point to a broader pattern of mismanagement. Among them is a $2.6 million off-site lease for district staff, despite the existence of dozens of underutilized school campuses across Broward County. He also cited a troubled, multimillion-dollar procurement process that has raised concerns about oversight of approximately $1.2 billion in projects under the district’s SMART Bond program.

In addition, Cervera has criticized the misallocation of voter-approved teacher referendum funds, alleging that hundreds of thousands of dollars intended for classroom educators were instead diverted to high-ranking administrators.

“These problems are not isolated; they reflect a pattern of long-standing financial mismanagement while our District is cutting programs, freezing hiring, and considering closing schools,” Cervera said in a statement ahead of the event. “Our students, parents, and teachers deserve better than this. Taxpayers deserve better than this. Broward families expect transparency and accountability, not waste.”

Cervera is expected to outline his concerns in detail during Tuesday’s press conference and call for stronger financial controls and oversight within the district. District officials have not yet publicly responded to his latest claims.

CTO to host 2026 Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda

Air Connectivity Summit

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) will host its 2026 Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda on Tuesday, February 24, bringing together senior public- and private-sector stakeholders to examine the future of air travel in the region.

The one-day summit, themed “Integrating Aviation and Regional Tourism Development,” is part of CTO’s broader Reimagine Plan and follows consultations with the organization’s Ministerial Council, Board of Directors and Airlift Committee. Discussions will center on improving air access across the Caribbean, supporting sustainable route development, and better aligning aviation policy with long-term tourism growth. Participants are also expected to explore new partnerships and identify practical, region-wide solutions to shared airlift challenges.

The Air Connectivity Summit will take place alongside CTO’s Spring Business Meetings, scheduled for February 23 at The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club in Bermuda. Those meetings will convene CTO leadership, member countries, allied members and industry stakeholders for business sessions, bilateral engagements and strategic discussions, setting the stage for collaboration ahead of the summit.

Attendees are expected to include tourism ministers, directors of tourism, officials from ministries of transport and finance, airport executives, airline leaders and route planners, infrastructure developers, regulators, sustainability and innovation experts, regional and international trade associations, research firms, media, and local tourism stakeholders from Bermuda.

Program highlights will include a keynote address on the current state and future outlook of Caribbean aviation, the presentation of a CTO air connectivity study by ASM, panel discussions on international and intra-regional route development, a ministerial dialogue on Caribbean airlift strategy, and sessions examining the relationship between aviation infrastructure and tourism development across the region.

Hundreds of Lauderhill residents join forces for Community Clean-Up Day

Lauderhill came together in a show of community spirit on January 10th as hundreds of residents, business owners, and local organizations participated in the city’s annual Community Clean-Up Day.

The event, aimed at beautifying neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces, also highlighted the city’s commitment to civic pride and environmental stewardship.

Volunteers gathered at Lauderhill City Hall before spreading across the city from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., tackling litter removal, light landscaping, planting greenery, and other beautification projects. To ensure full coverage, the city was divided into eight designated clean-up zones, each led by a member of the city’s leadership team: Commissioner John T. Hodgson, City Clerk Andrea Anderson, Vice Mayor Richard Campbell, Mayor Denise D. Grant, City Manager Kennie Hobbs, Jr., Commissioner S. Ray Martin, Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn, and City Attorney Hans Ottinot.

Participants of all ages, from teenagers to seniors, worked side by side, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Community service hours were offered to encourage youth participation and group involvement.

City officials expressed gratitude for the strong turnout, emphasizing that the event’s success underscores the impact of collective action. “Today demonstrates what we can achieve when the community comes together,” said one city representative.

Initiatives like Community Clean-Up Day are especially important in South Florida, where rapid urban growth and frequent storms can take a toll on neighborhoods and public spaces. Citywide volunteer efforts help maintain safe, clean, and welcoming environments, while also encouraging residents to take pride in their communities and actively participate in local improvement projects.

Beres Hammond’s Facebook page hacked, singer issues apology to fans

Beres Hammond - Caribbean National Weekly News

Reggae icon Beres Hammond revealed on Sunday that his official Facebook page has been hacked, resulting in the sharing of content that does not reflect his values, brand, or beliefs.

The veteran singer made the disclosure after becoming aware of posts appearing on the platform without his knowledge or consent. According to Hammond, the content circulating on the page is in no way aligned with who he is, prompting swift action from his team.

In a message shared via his verified Instagram account, Hammond assured fans that efforts are underway to resolve the situation. He also offered a heartfelt apology to supporters who may have been affected or confused by the unauthorized posts.

“My family! It has been brought to my attention that my Facebook page has been posting content that does not align with anything I believe in nor stand for. The page has been hacked, unfortunately,” Hammond wrote. “I’d like to take this opportunity to apologize to all my family for this awful situation taking place. My team and I are working tirelessly to get this problem solved.”

The singer further advised that, until the issue is fully resolved, Instagram will be his only active social media platform.

“This will be my only active social media account for the time being,” he added, while thanking fans for alerting him to the issue. “Thank you for all the messages you’ve sent to bring this to our attention. Love you my family!”

This follows a week of other issues on Meta platforms with many users reporting receiving fake “login notifications” prompting them to change passwords and other login credentials.

Despite the setback, Hammond’s musical calendar remains on track. The reggae legend is set to headline the highly anticipated Love & Harmony Cruise in April. The star-studded lineup also includes Busy Signal, Romain Virgo, Tanya Stephens, Max Priest, Pinchers, and Agent Sasco, promising an unforgettable celebration of reggae music at sea.

Fans are encouraged to follow Hammond on Instagram for verified updates as his team works to restore control of his Facebook account.

 

 

Roots-reggae singer Kenneth Roxborough dies at 78

Kenneth Roxborough

Kenneth Roxborough, a Jamaican singer and musician best known for his work with roots-reggae group Wadada, died in Chicago on January 5. He was 78.

Roxborough’s wife of 18 years, Mirta, told the Jamaica Observer that he succumbed to “various illnesses,” but remained devoted to his music until the end. “He never stopped playing his guitar; he loved music,” she said.

Born in Haldane, Westmoreland, Roxborough attended Mersville Primary and Frome Secondary before joining the African Children group in 1976. In the mid-1980s, he became a member of Wadada, replacing original member Vaughan Khouri, who had migrated. He performed with the group at Reggae Sunsplash in 1979 and recorded the album Take A Stand. Wadada also collaborated with producers Bunny Wailer and Freddie McGregor.

Roxborough is the second original member of Wadada to die in 17 months, following the passing of Franklin Thompson in August 2024 at age 72. The trio, which formed in Trench Town in 1978 with Denzil Williams on lead vocals, was known for its harmony-driven sound reminiscent of other iconic Trench Town groups such as The Wailers and The Wailing Souls.

After moving to the United States, Roxborough continued his music career, releasing songs including Discrimination. Mirta, who is Cuban, said they met in Miami in 2005, shortly after Roxborough returned from Ethiopia, where Wadada had worked with the Marley family on the Africa Unite concert.

Roxborough is survived by his widow, two sons, seven grandchildren, brothers, and sisters. Outside of music, he also worked as an upholsterer.

Former Jamaican UN Ambassador Curtis Ward dies at home in Maryland

Curtis Ward

Curtis Ward, a distinguished diplomat, attorney, and international security expert, has died at his home in Maryland, United States. Ward, who served as Jamaica’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations with special responsibility for Security Council affairs, passed away late Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of decades-long service to Jamaica, the Caribbean, and the wider international community.

Born in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, Ward attended Manchester High School before pursuing higher education in the United States at Howard University, where he earned degrees in Economics, Political Science, and Law, later also obtaining a law degree from Georgetown University. He began his career in the Jamaican Foreign Service in the 1970s before relocating to the U.S., where he practiced as an attorney for several years.

Ward resumed his service to the Jamaican government when he was appointed to the UN role, serving on the UN Security Council from January 2000 to December 2001. During this time, he contributed significantly to global counter-terrorism, anti-money laundering, and sanctions enforcement initiatives. Over the last two decades, he remained active in regional and international security matters, offering advisory services to the UN, regional organizations, governments, and NGOs. He traveled extensively as part of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee, participating in numerous conferences, workshops, and seminars worldwide as a keynote speaker, and lecturing on a wide range of security and international affairs issues.

Ward was also a prolific writer and commentator on public affairs. He founded the blog The Ward Post, through which he shared his views on Caribbean security, UN counter-terrorism policy, international sanctions, and international law. He contributed columns to The Gleaner and appeared regularly on Jamaican radio and television programs, including That’s a Rap and Beyond the Headlines, as well as Power 106 and Television Jamaica.

In 2025, Ward was recognized by Maryland Governor Wes Moore for his decades of service to the state and the Caribbean community. As chairman of the Governor’s Caribbean Community Council, Ward played a key role in advancing the interests of Caribbean nationals living in the United States. During the award ceremony on August 26, Governor Moore praised Ward for his leadership and integrity, describing him as “someone who embodies the true meaning of public service” and noting that he had personally benefited from Ward’s guidance. Ward, humbled by the recognition, emphasized that his work was always focused on advancing the community and state rather than seeking accolades, saying, “Service is an honour, and we should engage in such service for the betterment of our state and country.”

Ward also held academic appointments, including Adjunct Professor in the Homeland Security Graduate Program at the University of the District of Columbia since 2012, and former Adjunct Professorial Lecturer at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs from 2010 to 2014. He delivered lectures at the National Defense University, NATO School in Oberammergau, Germany, the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre in Accra, Ghana, and on weapons of mass destruction at the Caribbean Maritime University in Kingston, Jamaica.

In addition to his public service, Ward’s expertise in national and international legal and policy frameworks was extensive. He specialized in anti-terrorism mandates, countering violent extremism, anti-money laundering, countering terrorism financing (AML/CTF), and the implementation of both UN multilateral and U.S.-imposed unilateral sanctions.

Ward’s contributions as a diplomat, attorney, scholar, and public commentator leave a lasting mark on Jamaica, the Caribbean, and the global community. His guidance, knowledge, and dedication to public service will be remembered by colleagues, students, and communities across the region and beyond.

Letter reveals Antigua’s conditions for accepting third-country nationals from US

sir-ronald-sanders-caricom

A letter sent in August 2025 by Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, outlines detailed conditions under which the twin-island nation would consider accepting third-country nationals, including refugees, as part of a proposed arrangement with Washington. The existence of the correspondence predates the government’s announcement earlier this month that an agreement had been reached, even as officials insist the arrangement remains non-binding and has not been operationalised.

The letter, dated August 11, 2025, was addressed to Mike Kozak, a senior official in the US State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs. In it, Sanders thanked US officials for what he described as constructive discussions and confirmed the Antigua and Barbuda Embassy’s receipt of a July 28, 2025, diplomatic note transmitting draft proposed text for an understanding between the two governments.

The disclosure comes amid public concern that Antigua and Barbuda could be positioned as a destination for people the United States is unable to return elsewhere. The government has pushed back on that characterization, maintaining that no binding commitments exist and that any future arrangement would include strict safeguards.

According to Cabinet notes issued on January 8, 2026, Prime Minister Gaston Browne told ministers that the proposed memorandum of understanding would allow the United States to propose transfers strictly on a case-by-case basis. Antigua and Barbuda, he said, would retain an “absolute right to reject” any individual, with transfers capped at no more than 10 people per year.

However, the embassy letter itself proposes a slightly different ceiling. In a section addressing capacity, it suggests a hard annual cap of no more than 12 people in aggregate per calendar year, including immediate family members. The letter points to Antigua and Barbuda’s small-state constraints, referencing a population of approximately 95,000 and a land area of about 440 square kilometres.

Sanders’ correspondence also sets out proposed duration and exit conditions. It calls for temporary immigration status for accepted transferees for up to 24 months, with any extension requiring mutual consent. Crucially, it includes a re-transfer guarantee, under which Antigua and Barbuda could request the individual’s return if the transferee and immediate family fail to achieve self-sufficiency within that period. Under the proposal, the United States would accept the return and arrange transportation within 30 days.

Financing is another central pillar of the proposed framework. The letter seeks to place the full cost burden on the US side, stating that the United States or a designated agency would issue a funding letter covering transportation, pre-arrival screening, reception, accommodation, subsistence, healthcare, language services, education for minors, and case management for up to 24 months, subject to US appropriations.

The embassy further proposes a 12-month pilot period that would automatically expire unless renewed by mutual written consent, following a review by a joint consultative committee.

On eligibility, the letter stipulates that transferees should have no criminal convictions other than immigration-status offences, no pending charges, and no association with terrorism, organised crime, or sanctions lists. Beyond criminality, it adds additional thresholds, proposing that eligible individuals possess a certified skill or professional licence recognised by Antigua and Barbuda’s relevant regulatory authorities and demonstrate at least basic working proficiency in English.

What remains unclear is whether the United States accepted these proposed edits or whether a final text reflecting these conditions was ever agreed. Cabinet has said that if the country moves to operationalise the understanding, it would make a public announcement outlining safeguards and procedures.

Roye and Haye take Jamaica to Latin America’s grandest amateur stage

Zandre Roye and Oshae Haye

The Jamaica Golf Association has confirmed that Zandre Roye and Oshae Haye will represent the nation at the 11th Latin America Amateur Golf Championship (LAAC), scheduled for January 15-18 at the historic Lima Golf Club in Peru.

The championship, widely regarded as the most prestigious amateur tournament in the region, will once again bring together the finest emerging talents from across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Experience anchors Jamaica’s challenge

Both Roye and Haye arrive in Lima with valuable championship experience already behind them. Roye will be making his third appearance, having competed in 2024 and 2025, while Haye returns for his second outing, following his debut in 2024.

That familiarity with the intensity and demands of the LAAC is expected to serve the Jamaican pair well as they navigate one of the deepest amateur fields in international golf.

Early survival, then a push up the board

The immediate objective for both players will be to survive the 36-hole cut after the first two rounds. From there, the focus will shift to climbing the leaderboard over the closing two days of the four-round championship.

Jamaica’s benchmark performance at the LAAC remains 24th place, achieved by Ian Facey in 2015, a result Roye and Haye will aim to surpass as they test themselves against elite regional competition.

A crowded field of regional rivals

This year’s championship features over 100 golfers from 28 countries, including familiar Caribbean rivals from Barbados, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago, opponents the Jamaicans have previously encountered at the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championship.

The field also includes traditional powerhouses such as host nation Peru, along with Argentina and Mexico, countries that have consistently produced strong finishes in LAAC history.

A championship with global stakes

Founded in 2014 by the Masters Tournament, The R&A, and the United States Golf Association (USGA), the LAAC was established to accelerate the development of amateur golf across South America, Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The tournament rotates annually among premier courses throughout the region, offering a global platform for its rising stars.

Beyond regional prestige, the rewards are extraordinary. The champion earns an invitation to the Masters Tournament, along with exemptions into The Open Championship and the U.S. Open, placing one golfer on a direct pathway to the sport’s most iconic stages.

For Roye and Haye, Lima represents not only another international test, but an opportunity to write a new chapter in Jamaica’s golfing story.

Shaw the creator as Manchester City begin 2026 with WSL victory

Shaw nets third as Man City stretch winning streak
Khadija “Bunny” Shaw.

Khadija “Bunny” Shaw played a decisive creative role as Manchester City launched the 2026 Women’s Super League campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over Everton at the Joie Stadium.

The result marked City’s 11th win in their last 12 league matches, reinforcing their momentum after the Christmas break and allowing them to maintain a six-point cushion over defending champions Chelsea at the top of the standings.

Everton resistance tests City’s patience

Everton arrived determined to disrupt City’s rhythm and succeeded for long stretches of the opening half. Goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan was particularly influential early, producing a pair of sharp saves to deny both Shaw and Vivianne Miedema as the hosts searched for an opening.

City dominated possession but found progress difficult as Everton remained compact and disciplined in defense.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 26th minute, courtesy of Brazilian forward Kerolin. Given too much space down the left by Maz Pacheco, Kerolin drove toward the byline and struck a low effort from a tight angle. The ball took a decisive deflection off Martina Fernandez, wrong-footing Brosnan and sending City into a deserved lead.

Disallowed equalizer spurs controversy

Everton briefly believed they had drawn level moments later when Fernandez rifled a close-range finish into the roof of the net. The celebration was cut short, however, as Ruby Mace was adjudged to have impeded City goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita on the goal line, a decision that proved costly for the visitors.

City removed any lingering doubt in the 63rd minute, with Shaw once again at the heart of the action. The Jamaican striker delicately lifted a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Miedema, who calmly selected her spot and finished beyond Brosnan to double the advantage.

The goal capped a dominant second-half performance and secured all three points for the league leaders.

Numbers that reflect influence

Already the WSL’s leading scorer with 12 goals, Shaw’s assist against Everton brought her total to four for the season, placing her joint third among the league’s top providers. The contribution underlined her expanding influence, not only as City’s primary finisher, but also as a creative force in decisive moments.

Manchester City, composed and clinical, could hardly have asked for a stronger way to begin 2026.

 

T20 Blaze and Super50 Cup launch a pivotal year for Caribbean women

Super50 Cup

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has ushered in a pivotal year for women’s cricket as the CG United Women’s Super50 Cup and the T20 Blaze get underway in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, running from Sunday through February 1.

The return of the two flagship regional tournaments signals the start of an intense competitive calendar for the West Indies Women, with both events serving as the foundation for international ambitions later in the year.

Six territories, one competitive platform

The tournaments once again assemble regional sides from Barbados, Jamaica, the Leeward Islands, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and host territory the Windward Islands, ensuring a deep and balanced field.

Together, the Super50 Cup and T20 Blaze offer a crucial proving ground, blending experience with emerging talent as players seek form, consistency, and selection opportunities at the highest level.

Guyana arrive as the reigning T20 Blaze champions, having captured their first regional women’s title last year following an undefeated campaign. Their historic run concluded with a dramatic Super Over victory against Jamaica in the final.

Earlier in the season, Trinidad and Tobago asserted their dominance in the longer format, claiming the Super50 Cup with a commanding seven-wicket win over Barbados in the championship match.

International tests await

The regional tournaments represent only the opening chapter of a demanding year. Following their conclusion, the West Indies Women will host Sri Lanka in a white-ball series in late February, before facing Australia in a challenging all-format series the following month.

The summer schedule intensifies further with a tri-nation series against Ireland and Pakistan, leading directly into preparations for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, a global event the regional side has been meticulously building toward.

CWI emphasizes high-performance pathway

CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe underscored the importance of the T20 Blaze and Super50 Cup in shaping international readiness.

“These tournaments are a critical starting point for what promises to be an extremely demanding and important year for women’s cricket in the Caribbean.”

Bascombe emphasized that the competitions establish the standards required for success beyond the regional stage.

“The CG United Women’s Super50 Cup and the T20 Blaze provide the competitive intensity and performance benchmarks that are essential as we build towards a busy international schedule, featuring major bilateral series and the ICC T20 World Cup.”

He added that strong domestic competition remains central to long-term success.

“Strong regional competition remains the foundation of our high-performance pathway, and we expect these tournaments to once again highlight and produce players ready to perform at the international level.”

Squads named for opening phase

All six territories have named full squads, combining seasoned internationals with rising prospects as the battle for early-season supremacy begins.

Barbados:
Aaliyah Alleyne (captain), Elecia Bowman, Eboni Brathwaite, Shanika Bruce, Asabi Callender, Dicoreya Collymore, Shamilia Connell, Naijanni Cumberbatch, Keila Elliott, Allison Gordon, Theanny Herbert-Mayers, Trishan Holder, Alisa Scantlebury, Shakera Selman.

Guyana:
Shemaine Campbelle (captain), Feona Benjamin, Analesia D’Aguiar, Shabika Gajnabi, Realeanna Grimmond, Sheneta Grimmond, Mandy Mangru, Danellie Manns, Tramaine Marks, Plaffiana Millington, Ashmini Munisar, Kaysia Schultz, Latoya Williams, Laurene Williams.

Jamaica:
Rashada Williams (captain), Adanya Baugh, Abigail Bryce, Sherene Burnett, Jaunel Deers, Chrishana McKenzie, Aneisha Miller, Chedean Nation, Lena Scott, Stafanie Taylor, Neisha-Ann Waisome, Vanessa Watts, Celina Whyte, Kate Wilmott.

Leeward Islands:
Amanda Edwards (captain), Kimberly Anthony, Katherine Bean-Rosario, Reniece Boyce, Kayzg Boyles, Jahzara Claxton, Shawnisha Hector, Qiana Joseph, Rozel Liburd, Tonya Martin, Davronique Maynard, Chey-Anne Moses, Jess St. John, Aaliyah Weekes.

Trinidad and Tobago:
Karishma Ramharack (captain), Kirbyina Alexander, Britney Cooper, Brianna Harricharan, Shriya Jairam, Djenaba Joseph, Amelia Khan, Lee Ann Kirby, Anisa Mohammed, Nadia Mohammed, Samara Ramnath, Amrita Ramtahal, Shalini Samaroo, Shunelle Sawh.

Windward Islands:
Zaida James (captain), Holly Charles, Nerissa Crafton, Ashlene Edward, Afy Fletcher, Earnisha Fontaine, Aldith Gasper, Amiah Gilbert, Jannillea Glasgow, Shanel Mckie, Carena Noel, Selena Ross, Abini St. Jean, Jaeda Tyrell.

As the first balls are bowled in St. Vincent, the message is unmistakable: the road to international success begins here.

 

 

West Indies to finalize T20 World Cup squad after Afghanistan series

Cricket West Indies

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed that it will wait until the conclusion of its upcoming T20 International series against Afghanistan before announcing the West Indies squad for next month’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The decision means the regional side will be among the last teams to formally name its final group for the tournament, which runs from February 7 to March 8 and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Three-match series sets the timeline

CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe revealed that the World Cup squad will be unveiled after the third and final T20I, scheduled for January 22. The series opens on January 19, with the second match slated for January 21.

According to Bascombe, the squad announcement will follow swiftly.

“We have taken the decision not to name our squad until after the Afghanistan series,” he said.

He added that the official list would be confirmed “within 48 hours” of the final match.

Strategic approach over speed

While most participating nations have already announced their provisional squads, CWI has opted for patience, prioritizing performance assessment over early declarations.

Bascombe explained that the upcoming fixtures provide a valuable evaluation window as the team fine-tunes its composition ahead of the global tournament.

“We have the good fortune of having Afghanistan and South Africa before we head into the warm-up matches for the World Cup, so the idea is that we use Afghanistan to sort of finalise our squad,” he explained.

Avoiding late changes

The decision, Bascombe noted, was also driven by a desire to avoid unnecessary adjustments after a public announcement.

“We didn’t like the idea of naming a provisional squad and then having to announce changes to that squad.”

Although a provisional list was submitted to meet ICC requirements, Bascombe confirmed that the governing body was informed of CWI’s intention to wait before finalizing its selections.

“We submitted a provisional squad as we had to, but we did inform the ICC that following that series against Afghanistan, that is when we will formalise our squad.”

Focus sharpened ahead of global stage

With high-quality opposition looming and warm-up matches to follow, the Afghanistan series is now positioned as a decisive checkpoint, one that could shape the final balance of the West Indies’ World Cup campaign.

For CWI, the message is clear: selection certainty will be earned on the field, not rushed on paper.

 

 

Henry’s all-round brilliance not enough as Capitals fall in WPL opener

Chinelle Henry, Alleyne shine as Windies edge NZ in opener

The 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) began on a sobering note for Caribbean standouts Chinelle Henry and Deandra Dottin, as both players found themselves on the losing side despite sharply different individual experiences on Saturday.

Henry delivered a powerful all-round effort for Delhi Capitals Women, while Dottin endured a more subdued outing for UP Warriorz Women, yet neither performance was enough to alter their teams’ opening-day fortunes.

Mumbai firepower overwhelms capitals

At Navi Mumbai, the Capitals were overwhelmed by a dominant batting display from Mumbai Indians Women, who surged to 195 for four in their 20 overs.

Leading the charge was Mumbai captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who struck a commanding unbeaten 74 from just 42 deliveries, combining timing and brute force. She found ideal support in Nat Sciver-Brunt, whose fluent 70 off 46 balls kept the scoreboard accelerating throughout the innings.

Among the Capitals bowlers, Nandani Sharma impressed with figures of 2 for 26, while Henry chipped in with 1 for 32 from three overs, unable to stem the flow of runs as Mumbai set a formidable target.

Henry’s lone stand falls short

In reply, Delhi Capitals struggled from the outset but found resistance through Henry, who produced a spirited counterattack. The Jamaican all-rounder top-scored with a brisk 56 off 33 balls, striking five fours and three sixes in a lone effort to revive the chase.

Her dismissal signaled the beginning of the end. The Capitals were eventually bowled out for 145 in 19 overs, falling 50 runs short. Mumbai’s bowling attack was led by Amelia Kerr (3-24) and Nicola Carey (3-37), with Sciver-Brunt completing a standout all-round performance with 2 for 29.

Dottin struggles as Warriorz fall narrowly

Earlier in the day, Deandra Dottin endured a frustrating outing as UP Warriorz Women were edged out by Gujarat Giants Women in a thrilling 10-run defeat.

The Giants’ innings was anchored by captain Ashleigh Gardner, who powered her way to 65 off 41 balls, while Anushka Sharma added a valuable 44, helping Gujarat amass a towering 207 for four.

Dottin managed to claim one wicket, but proved expensive, conceding 47 runs from her four overs.

Late chase comes up just short

Despite the daunting target, the Warriorz mounted a spirited response, driven by a scintillating knock from Phoebe Litchfield, who hammered 78 off 40 balls, including eight fours and five sixes.

However, Dottin was unable to provide momentum with the bat, contributing just 12 runs as the Warriorz closed on 197 for eight, agonizingly short of the target.

Early lessons in a long tournament

While the results went against them, Henry’s commanding all-round display stood out as an early statement of intent, even as Dottin and the Warriorz were left searching for rhythm.

With the WPL season only just underway, both Caribbean stars will have ample opportunity to reshape their narratives as the tournament gathers pace.

 

 

Miami for remote workers: Co-working, cafes, and lifestyle integration

Miami for remote workers has become a clear topic of interest for people who seek warm weather, steady Wi-Fi, and a simple setup for daily tasks. The city offers work settings that fit many routines. It gives people steady access to sunlight, social spaces, and work zones that feel comfortable for short or long stays, which appeals to people who want to explore major cities on a budget while keeping a stable work routine.

Why Miami for Remote Workers Stands Out Today

Remote workers search for cities that balance work demands with daily comfort. Miami fits this aim well because it offers flexible workspaces, active streets, and short travel distances. Many people want a place where they can focus, switch settings with ease, and relax after tasks. Miami supports this shift with consistent connectivity, easy outdoor time, and steady social energy that can motivate long days.

Co-Working Spaces That Support Productive Days

Co-working spaces across Miami help people stay productive. Many offer day passes, meeting rooms, and call booths, which support people who ask the common question:  working from home or the office? And want flexible setups. Quick access to coffee, desks, and events makes daily tasks easier.

Popular areas such as Brickell, Wynwood, South Beach, and Coral Gables offer different work styles, which explains why Miami for remote workers continues to gain attention. Brickell feels structured, Wynwood feels creative, South Beach offers beach breaks, and Coral Gables supports calm work sessions.

Cafes That Support Long Work Sessions

Cafes serve as informal offices for many remote workers. Miami has many spots with strong Wi-Fi and simple seating that help people focus. Smaller cafes give workers room to think during quiet hours. Larger cafes help people who prefer a steady background sound during tasks.

Areas such as Midtown, Coconut Grove, Edgewater, and Little Havana offer strong choices. Coconut Grove feels calm and helps people reset between emails. Midtown delivers steady movement and options for quick meals. Edgewater places workers close to the water, ideal for short breaks outside. Little Havana provides local flavor and steady energy from nearby shops.

Lifestyle Integration That Supports Daily Comfort

Remote workers often value cities where daily needs stay easy. Miami gives workers short walks to stores, fitness studios, and parks. The city offers simple movement across key areas through rideshare, bikes, scooters, and public transit.

People also enjoy easy access to beaches, which helps reduce stress from long screen hours. Breaks near water can help refresh focus before returning to tasks. Short walks, outdoor seating, and sunset views help many workers reset after full workdays.

How Remote Workers Manage Schedules in Miami

Remote workers often rely on routines that help them stay productive without rigid rules. Many split their days into work blocks. Morning hours often involve deep-focus tasks at a co-working space. Afternoon hours may take place in a cafe or an outdoor seating area. Evening hours may shift to social time or relaxed activities.

The city supports this rhythm with steady temperature, outdoor options, and food choices that suit changing schedules. Many workers move through several locations per day without travel stress, which helps support steady productivity.

Choosing Neighborhoods That Support Comfortable Workdays

Miami neighborhoods differ in pace, noise, and structure. Because of this, picking the right area can shape how well remote workers handle daily demands.

For instance:

  • Brickell: Helps workers who want structure, modern buildings, and walkable streets.
  • Wynwood: Suits people who prefer creative energy and flexible spaces.
  • Coconut Grove: Fits those who want slower surroundings and open outdoor areas.
  • South Beach: Helps workers who enjoy active environments and beach breaks.
  • Edgewater: Assists workers who want quiet residential streets with quick city access.

Due to these differences, each area supports different work patterns. As a result, remote workers who want steady social contact may choose Brickell or Wynwood. In contrast, workers who aim for focus may choose Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, or Edgewater.

How Remote Workers Improve Daily Flow in Miami

Remote workers in Miami often focus on making the most of each location around the city and neighboring areas, using the city’s variety to support a productive daily flow. As one of the best places for digital nomads in Florida, Miami makes it easy to move between focused work and short mental breaks. Co-working spaces, beachside cafes, shaded parks, and walkable neighborhoods allow quick task switching without losing momentum.

While some professionals compare Miami to calmer cities like Tampa or more structured hubs like Orlando, many find that Miami’s energy creates a better rhythm for the workday. The ability to choose between quiet indoor spaces and outdoor environments helps remote workers stay engaged, manage focus, and maintain balance throughout the day.

Outdoor Work Options for Casual Days

Outdoor spaces appeal to many people who want a break from indoor work zones. Miami parks and waterfront areas give workers fresh air and a calmer pace. Small group calls, ideation sessions, or reading tasks often feel easier in open-air settings.

South Pointe Park, Maurice A. Ferré Park, and Kennedy Park offer strong conditions for short work blocks. These spaces give workers areas to sit, think, and reset. Outdoor setups help break the monotony of long laptop sessions.

Work-Life Balance in a Warm Climate

Many remote workers say that warm weather helps them stay consistent. Steady sunshine supports outdoor breaks and exercise, which can increase comfort during long work periods. Beaches, walking paths, and outdoor gyms help maintain simple wellness habits. These routines reflect some of the challenges and strategies for effective management that remote workers face as they try to balance productivity with daily physical activity, according to the Research Gate study.

Miami food options also support a daily balance. Workers shift between quick meals, fresh market stops, and sit-down dinners with ease. Many neighborhoods offer food choices that support health-focused habits without long travel.

Social Life That Supports Remote Work

Remote workers often want casual ways to meet new people. Miami gives workers access to small events, co-working meetups, and interest groups. These events help people find community without pressure or long-term commitment.

Weekly gatherings at co-working locations or local cafes help people stay connected. Many also enjoy fitness classes, book groups, or weekend beach meetups. These activities support social balance and help workers adjust to the city.

Why Miami Helps Remote Workers Stay Motivated

People who work remotely often seek new surroundings that help them feel refreshed. Miami offers color, movement, and outdoor air that help people stay alert, which also appeals to any rental property owner who wants to attract long-term guests. It supports a structure where workers can shift settings to reset their focus. This ability to move between indoors and outdoors during the same day helps remote workers stay motivated. The city’s layout keeps people active without feeling rushed, which strengthens the growing interest in Miami for remote workers.

Final Thoughts on Miami for Remote Workers

Miami for remote workers supports simple routines, reliable work settings, and easy daily comfort. Co-working spaces, cafes, outdoor areas, and social options help people create flexible days that feel productive and steady. The city gives remote workers a practical base with warm weather, walkability, and strong connectivity. Many people find that Miami helps them stay focused while still enjoying steady access to outdoor spaces and social activity.

US Ambassador urges Guyana to appoint opposition leader

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, has called for the appointment of an opposition leader in Guyana, stressing that the move is necessary for the proper functioning of the country’s democracy following the September 1 general and regional elections.

The polls returned the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to office and reshaped the parliamentary opposition, with the newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), led by Azruddin Mohamed, emerging as the second-largest party in the National Assembly. WIN overtook A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), which had previously held that position.

Despite the outcome, the National Assembly has met only once since the elections, on November 3, 2025. To date, Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir has not convened the constitutionally required meeting of the 29 opposition parliamentarians to elect an opposition leader, a process widely expected to result in Mohamed’s selection.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday after an event at Banks DIH, Theriot said a functioning parliament depends on having a recognised leader of the opposition. “I think it’s incredibly important that you have a functioning parliament in any democracy and in order to have that, you do need a Leader of the Opposition. It just makes things work properly,” she said. She added, “I do think it’s very important for Guyana, as soon as possible, to elect a Leader of the Opposition”.

Over the weekend, President Irfaan Ali dismissed claims that the government has avoided calling parliamentary sittings to prevent Mohamed’s election, describing the suggestion as “absolutely ridiculous.”

“Absolutely ridiculous! The opposition can elect whoever they want as Opposition Leader so it’s absolutely ridiculous. That’s their business. We have no business in the opposition electing whoever they want as Leader of the Opposition,” Ali told reporters.

Mohamed’s political rise has unfolded alongside ongoing legal proceedings in the United States. He and his father, billionaire businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, are contesting extradition requests from Washington. On October 30, 2025, US authorities sought the extradition of the 76-year-old father and his 38-year-old son on multiple charges, including wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, aiding and abetting, and customs-related violations tied to an alleged US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme. Their extradition committal hearing is scheduled to resume on February 5, 2026.

Theriot acknowledged that the legal matter complicates engagement but said it should not stall Guyana’s democratic processes. “Like I’ve said before, it complicates matters. It’s not the easiest thing in the world to deal with but what’s most important is that your democracy functions and I think in order for Parliament to do that and to represent the will of the people, who elected this person or who chose this person to have a significant number of seats or chose his party, that they need to move forward with the election,” she said.

She added that while Mohamed’s role would not affect the US legally, it could limit engagement in specific areas. “It doesn’t impact on us legally but if he is involved in certain aspects of government that we have to deal with; if it involves anything financial or contractual then that might be a slight problem for us and we would just have to ask that someone else work on that issue so for us we can work around it,” Theriot explained.

The ambassador also noted that the call for the appointment of an opposition leader is not coming from the United States alone, pointing out that the European Union, Canada, and the United Kingdom have made similar appeals.

“I don’t think we can be more clear than that when we say it publicly. It certainly gets to the right ears,” she said, when asked whether the diplomatic community has sought to persuade Guyanese authorities to fill the post.

Trinidad and Tobago Cabinet approves paternity and parental leave with new labour laws

Trinidad Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has announced major labour law reforms after Cabinet approved amendments to the Maternity Protection Act and the Retrenchment and Severance Benefits Act, clearing the way for the introduction of paternity and parental leave in Trinidad and Tobago.

In a post on her X account on Sunday, January 11, Persad-Bissessar described the approvals as “major wins for working families,” noting that the reforms are intended to modernise workplace protections and better reflect contemporary family realities.

The changes, first outlined publicly by Labour Minister Leroy Baptiste at a United National Congress news conference in Chaguanas, will for the first time formally recognise paternity leave and parental leave in national legislation. The benefits will extend beyond biological fathers to adoptive parents and guardians, and will also apply in cases where a mother dies following childbirth, allowing fathers or guardians to access parental leave.

Baptiste said Cabinet has already approved the amendments and confirmed they are now before Attorney General John Jeremie for drafting, ahead of their introduction in Parliament.

Among the measures outlined by the Prime Minister are paid breastfeeding breaks, stronger protections against workplace discrimination, a ban on pregnancy testing for job applicants and employees, and a guarantee that workers can return to the same job after maternity, paternity, or parental leave. The reforms will also shift the burden of proof onto employers in workplace disputes, extend full labour protections to contract workers, and introduce mechanisms to fast-track cases through the Industrial Court.

A long-criticised provision limiting maternity benefits to once every 24 months will also be removed. Baptiste said the restriction was “contrary to the general rules,” adding that women should not be penalised for becoming pregnant twice in one year.

Addressing breastfeeding protections, the Labour Minister said lactating mothers will be statutorily entitled to paid time for breastfeeding and expressing breast milk, with no penalty. The amendments will also prohibit demotion or loss of pay linked to paternity leave or breastfeeding breaks and guarantee the same job, pay, and employment conditions upon return. He noted that employers who breach anti-discrimination provisions could face fines.

Persad-Bissessar used her announcement to speak directly to young women, stressing that family life and professional ambition need not be at odds. “You do not have to choose between a career and a family — you can have both,” she said.

She also highlighted the role of women in national development, stating: “Our nation was built by generations of women who ensured their children had better lives in a stronger, more progressive country.”

Baptiste described the legislative changes as transformative, saying they would have an impact on women, fathers, adoptive parents, and contract workers, while providing safeguards for employees facing job loss. He added that consultations have been held with trade unions and employer groups, including JTUM, NATUC, and the Employer Consultative Association.

The reforms are expected to rank among the most far-reaching labour law changes in recent years, with wide-ranging implications for employers, employees, and families across Trinidad and Tobago.

 

Saint Lucia signs deal with US to accept transfer of third-country nationals

St. Lucia Government promises to implement measures to curb crime

On Sunday, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre announced that Saint Lucia has formalized a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the United States to potentially accept the transfer of certain third-country nationals currently in the U.S.

“In this regard, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a memorandum of understanding between the government of Saint Lucia and the government of the United States to accept the potential transfer of certain third-country nationals present in the United States,” Pierre said in a video address. “This agreement is non-binding and is at the complete discretion of both governments.”

He emphasized that the MOU is a framework for cooperation and does not trigger immediate action. “The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation and does not trigger any immediate transfer and future engagements. The MOU is orderly, transparent, and consistent with the laws, policies, and national interests of St. Lucia. Let me make it clear that no agreement has been signed and no details are available.”

Acknowledging that public opinion may be divided, the prime minister said, “I expect that there will be those who are supportive and those who are against providing such support to the United States. But I ask that you rest assured that I will always put you first and act in the best interest of the people of our beloved country, no matter how difficult the decisions may be.”

Pierre also addressed concerns about U.S. travel policies for St. Lucians, assuring citizens, “Let me assure St. Lucians that as of today, there has been no information given to the government of St. Lucia regarding any changes in the United States’ visa policy for St. Lucia, for St. Lucia and St. Lucians wishing to travel to the United States.”

He cautioned against the dangers of misinformation, urging responsible use of social media: “But the destructive behavior of a critical mass can bring about harm to all of us. I plead for the responsible use of social media. Social media should not be used as a tool for misinformation, for slander, and the denigration of citizens in private or public life. While misinformation may appear to hurt political opponents, in the final analysis, it is the country that suffers this year. Let us recommit ourselves to unity, respect, and shared responsibility.”

Saint Lucia follows other Caribbean nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and St. Kitts and Nevis, which recently signed similar agreements with the U.S. Guyana has also indicated it is considering a similar arrangement. Leaders in the region have said the United States approached several Caribbean countries with the request.

Jamaica’s remittance inflows fell 8.3% in October after Hurricane Melissa

western union remittances

Jamaica’s remittance inflows fell sharply in October, declining by 8.3 per cent compared with the same month last year, in one of the steepest monthly contractions since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The drop, amounting to US$21.4 million, coincided with the passage of Hurricane Melissa, which battered the island late in the month and disrupted financial channels relied on by millions of Jamaican households.

According to the Bank of Jamaica’s (BOJ) monthly Remittance Bulletin, net remittances totaled US$238.0 million in October, down from US$259.4 million in October 2024. The central bank attributed the decline primarily to lower inflows, which fell by US$19.3 million, alongside a modest rise in outflows.

Remittances—typically gifts sent by Jamaicans overseas to relatives and friends—are a critical source of household income and foreign exchange for the country.

“The decline in total remittance inflows was attributed to lower flows,” the BOJ stated.

Hurricane Melissa played a significant role, with the storm causing widespread infrastructure damage and employment disruptions estimated at up to US$8.9 billion, or roughly 40 per cent of Jamaica’s gross domestic product. The hurricane struck on October 28, forcing temporary airport closures, delaying postal services, and interrupting traditional remittance delivery channels.

The decline in October was broad-based. Transfers through remittance companies fell by 6.6 per cent, while “other remittances,” including those routed through commercial banks, declined by 9.2 per cent. At the same time, remittance outflows increased by 10.5 per cent.

Despite the October setback, authorities expect an uptick in remittance-related support in the aftermath of the storm, as overseas Jamaicans send financial assistance, gifts, and loans to aid rebuilding efforts. However, the impact of that support on November’s figures remains uncertain.

On a fiscal year-to-date basis, the picture is more stable. Net remittances from April through October totaled US$1.887 billion, representing a 1.2 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2024.

Still, Jamaica’s modest growth lags behind double-digit increases recorded in countries such as Guatemala and El Salvador, highlighting the island’s continued vulnerability to external shocks.

The United States remained Jamaica’s largest source of remittances, accounting for 68.4 per cent of inflows, slightly higher than last year. The United Kingdom, Canada, and the Cayman Islands followed, together contributing more than a quarter of total transfers.

Guyana sees 450% surge in passenger traffic as tourism investments pay off

Guyana's newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues
Guyana's Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues

Investments in Guyana’s tourism sector over the past five years have driven a dramatic rise in passenger movement, with traffic increasing by 450 percent over the period, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

Speaking Saturday evening at the opening of the AC Marriott Hotel at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, Ali said passenger traffic across all ports of entry surpassed 1.2 million in 2025, underscoring what he described as the tangible results of sustained investment in airlift, infrastructure, and tourism development.

The president noted that international landings increased by 254 percent over the last four years, while the number of available aircraft seats grew by 400.5 percent. He added that the number of international carriers serving Guyana expanded by 220 percent, and destinations served from local airports rose by 184 percent.

“Those are some numbers that speak for themselves,” Ali said. “You live in a constantly changing world, and our public policy approach, our development approach, and our business approach must take into consideration the changes that are occurring in our world and our region.”

Figures from the Ministry of Public Works support that growth trend, showing that international passenger movements at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and Eugene F. Correia International Airport (EFCIA) climbed from 205,297 in 2020 to 938,715 in 2024.

Ali also pointed to plans to expand the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, located a short distance from the newly opened AC Marriott Hotel. He said recent international flights have already begun landing at the airport, with more expected in the future.

“The hotel exists because investors saw what Ogle is today and what it will become tomorrow,” he said. “They did not wait for expansion; they anticipated it. They did not hesitate, and belief is the most powerful economic force of all.”

The president said he plans to meet with hotel operators, resorts, and other tourism stakeholders before the end of January to develop a joint strategy aimed at attracting visitors from non-traditional source markets, beyond the nationalities that typically travel to Guyana.

Emphasizing collaboration between the public and private sectors, Ali said the government remains ready to work closely with investors to further grow the industry.

Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues said the rise in visitor arrivals reflects growing international confidence in Guyana as a destination and is a milestone worth celebrating. However, she stressed that the country’s ambitions extend further.

“By 2030, we are aiming to welcome one million visitors annually,” Rodrigues said.

She noted that achieving that goal will require continued investment in accommodations, airlift, infrastructure, and supporting service industries, as Guyana positions itself for sustained tourism growth in the years ahead.

WIN presses for election of Guyana opposition leader amid international calls

Azruddin Mohamed

Guyana’s main opposition party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), on Sunday renewed calls for the immediate election of an Opposition Leader, citing mounting pressure from Western diplomats and what it described as continued constitutional inaction.

In a statement, WIN urged Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir to fulfill his constitutional duty by convening a meeting of the 29 opposition members of parliament to elect a Leader of the Opposition. The party noted that Nadir has provided no explanation for failing to call the required meeting since the September 1, 2025 general and regional elections.

WIN’s appeal comes as the British and Canadian high commissioners, along with the ambassadors of the European Union and the United States, have publicly called within the past 72 hours for the election of an Opposition Leader as a cornerstone of a functioning democracy.

The party is backing its embattled leader, Azruddin Mohamed, as the opposition’s nominee. Mohamed and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, are currently wanted by U.S. authorities on allegations of mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. An extradition committal hearing is ongoing in a magistrates’ court.

WIN said Mohamed, who led the party to 109,075 votes in the September elections, is the “duly elected choice” of the opposition and must be allowed to assume the role. “The will of the electorate must be respected,” the party said, accusing the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) of avoiding legitimate oversight and seeking to use state resources without checks and balances.

The opposition party further claimed that the PPP is deliberately obstructing the process out of fear that Mohamed would introduce greater scrutiny in the National Assembly. WIN argued that the international community’s calls underscore the urgency of appointing an Opposition Leader to restore accountability and constitutional order.

More than four months after the elections, Guyana remains without a formally elected Opposition Leader. WIN described the situation as unprecedented, noting that Parliament has met only once since the polls.

President Irfaan Ali, however, dismissed claims that the government is intentionally delaying sittings of the National Assembly to block Mohamed’s election. Speaking to reporters on Saturday after the opening of the AC Marriott Hotel in Ogle, East Coast Demerara, Ali called such suggestions “absolutely ridiculous.”

“The opposition can elect whoever they want as Opposition Leader,” the president said. “That’s their business. We have no business in the opposition electing whoever they want as Leader of the Opposition.”

The standoff continues as diplomatic pressure grows and opposition parties press for the convening of Parliament to fill the vacant post.

Golden Krust unveils five-year plan to add 50 new US locations

Golden Krust

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill is embarking on an ambitious expansion, announcing plans to open 50 new franchise restaurants across the United States over the next five years as it looks to strengthen its footprint and enter new markets.

The aggressive growth strategy will deepen the brand’s presence in established strongholds such as Georgia, Texas, and the Carolinas, while targeting expansion into new territories, including Washington and Virginia. The move signals the latest chapter for a company that has steadily transformed from a single family-run shop into one of the most recognizable Caribbean food brands in the country.

Golden Krust was founded in 1989 after five Hawthorne siblings and in-laws pooled their savings through a traditional Jamaican “pardner” draw to open a small storefront in the Bronx. Their goal, they’ve said, was simple: stop working for others and bring a taste of Jamaica to New York.

More than three decades later, the business has grown to 103 restaurants across eight states, with its signature patties now sold in roughly 20,000 retail outlets nationwide. Despite that growth, the company continues to maintain strong ties to Jamaica. In early December, Golden Krust’s principals traveled to the island to oversee a targeted aid mission supporting farmers and schools affected by Hurricane Melissa, underscoring the brand’s continued investment in its roots.

The expansion follows a deliberate geographic strategy. Golden Krust plans to build further scale in its current markets—New York, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, North Carolina, and Texas—while securing franchise licenses in new states. New York remains the company’s largest market, accounting for about half of all locations, primarily concentrated in the metropolitan area and boroughs. Florida follows with 26 stores, while Georgia has 18.

Of the 103 restaurants currently operating, only two are corporate-owned, with the remaining locations run by franchisees. That franchise-driven model has been central to the brand’s growth since a key milestone in 1996, when Golden Krust became the first Caribbean business to secure a franchise license in the United States. Its first franchisee, Earl Chin, opened a Flatbush, Brooklyn location in 1997 and remains with the company today, now operating additional stores in Florida.

Beyond restaurants, Golden Krust’s consumer packaged goods division has become a major driver of its national reach. The company’s microwaveable patties are now available at major retailers, including Walmart, Publix, Costco, Stop & Shop, and H-E-B, giving the brand a presence far beyond its brick-and-mortar locations.

Golden Krust reached the 100-store mark by 2005, fueled by a steadily expanding menu that grew from traditional curries to include oxtail, barbecue, fish dishes, and a full range of Caribbean pastries. As it prepares for its next phase of growth, the company is betting that the same combination of family roots, franchising, and cultural authenticity will continue to resonate with a broader American audience.

USCIS to raise premium processing fees effective March 1

uscis

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will increase premium processing fees beginning March 1, 2026, under a final rule published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

DHS said the fee adjustments reflect inflation from June 2023 through June 2025 and are authorized under the USCIS Stabilization Act, which allows the agency to update premium processing fees every two years to preserve their real dollar value.

Premium processing allows applicants to pay an additional fee for faster adjudication of certain immigration benefits. DHS said revenue from the increase will be used to maintain premium processing services, improve adjudication systems, address processing backlogs, and support broader USCIS adjudication and naturalization operations.

Any premium processing request postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, must include the new fee and be submitted using Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, in accordance with form instructions.

Under the new rule, the premium processing fee for Form I-129 petitions for H-2B and R-1 workers will rise from $1,685 to $1,780. For all other eligible Form I-129 nonimmigrant classifications—including H-1B, L-1, O, P, E, and TN visas—the fee will increase from $2,805 to $2,965.

The same increase, from $2,805 to $2,965, applies to Form I-140 employment-based immigrant petitions. Premium processing fees for Form I-539 applications to extend or change nonimmigrant status for certain student and exchange visitor categories will rise from $1,965 to $2,075. For eligible Form I-765 employment authorization applications, including OPT and STEM-OPT, the fee will increase from $1,685 to $1,780.

USCIS emphasized that premium processing is only available for benefits specifically designated as eligible and that applicants must confirm availability before filing.

New rule allows asylum denials for security and public health threats

asylum us application

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have finalized a rule that clarifies when asylum or withholding of removal may be denied to noncitizens who pose a threat to U.S. security, including during certain public health emergencies.

In a Federal Register notice released December 29, DHS said the rule reaffirms the government’s authority to treat serious public health risks as a potential security bar to asylum. The regulation took effect on December 31, 2025.

The rule updates the “Security Bars and Processing” regulation first published in December 2020. While that earlier rule was never fully implemented due to repeated delays, the new version removes several outdated provisions while preserving the core public health-related authorities. DHS and DOJ said this approach allows immigration officials to continue considering public health emergencies when determining asylum eligibility.

According to DHS, the changes ensure the government can deny asylum or withholding of removal to individuals deemed a danger to the security of the United States because of public health risks during emergencies, without altering how the public health provisions are applied in practice.

The announcement follows a December 2 decision by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to place a temporary hold on all asylum applications while the agency conducts a comprehensive review of the asylum system.

DHS described the final rule as part of a broader effort aligned with the Trump administration’s immigration priorities. Officials said the goal is to prevent individuals who pose security threats from receiving asylum protections.

The departments emphasized that the rule does not create new public health standards, but rather clarifies and preserves existing authority to consider public health-related dangers when evaluating asylum and withholding of removal claims.

DHS overhauls H-1B visa selection to favor higher-skilled, higher-paid workers

us-visa Ireland imposes visa requirement on Trinidad

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced major changes to the way H-1B work visas are awarded, replacing the long-standing random lottery system with a weighted selection process.

Under the new rule, visas will be prioritized for higher-skilled and higher-paid foreign workers, a move DHS says will help safeguard U.S. wages, working conditions, and job opportunities. The regulation, released December 23, is set to take effect February 27, 2026, ahead of the FY 2027 H-1B cap registration season.

“For years, the random selection process was exploited and abused by U.S. employers who were primarily seeking to import foreign workers at lower wages than they would pay American workers,” said U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services spokesperson Matthew Tragesser. “The new weighted selection will better serve Congress’ intent for the H-1B program and strengthen America’s competitiveness by incentivizing employers to petition for higher-paid, higher-skilled foreign workers.”

The H-1B program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, but the number of visas is capped annually at 65,000, with an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants holding advanced degrees from U.S. institutions. Demand routinely exceeds supply, prompting criticism that the lottery system rewarded volume rather than skill and allowed some employers to flood the system with lower-wage applications.

DHS says the revised process will increase the likelihood that visas go to workers with higher qualifications and salaries, while still preserving access to the program across all wage levels. Officials argue the change will curb abuse without undermining the ability of U.S. businesses to hire needed talent.

The rule is part of a broader effort by the administration to tighten oversight of the H-1B program. DHS pointed to other recent measures, including a presidential proclamation requiring employers to pay an additional $100,000 per visa as a condition of eligibility.

“As part of the Trump Administration’s commitment to H-1B reform, we will continue to demand more from both employers and aliens so as not to undercut American workers and to put America first,” Tragesser said.

DHS officials describe the new weighted system as a key step in restoring integrity to the program, signaling further regulatory changes may follow.

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