More than 400 earthquakes were recorded in and around Jamaica in 2025, according to the Earthquake Unit (EQU) at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, underscoring the island’s continued exposure to seismic activity.
The disclosure was made by Scientific Officer Karleen Black during a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on January 6, ahead of Earthquake Awareness Week, which runs from January 11 to 17.
Black said a total of 402 earthquakes were recorded during the year. Of that number, 122 were classified as near events, affecting neighboring territories such as the Cayman Islands, Cuba and Haiti, while 280 were local events distributed across Jamaica.
“There were seven felt earthquakes and of these, two were in Portland, two in St. Thomas, another two in St. Elizabeth and one in St. Andrew,” Black said. She added that the geographic spread highlights the island-wide risk. “From the parish distribution, you can tell that all parishes across the island can experience earthquakes.”
Black also pointed to the resilience of Jamaica’s seismic monitoring systems, particularly in the aftermath of Category Five Hurricane Melissa, which damaged some monitoring stations.
“Coming out of Melissa, we would have had some damage to our stations… however, due to our resiliency in having multiple networks, we were able to keep the monitoring going, even during Melissa,” she said.
She reminded Jamaicans that the country faces multiple hazards and that overlapping disasters are a real possibility.
“As you know, Jamaica is a multi-hazard country and it is quite possible that during a hurricane or some other disaster, you could have an earthquake as well,” Black cautioned.
While no earthquakes occurred during Hurricane Melissa itself, she referenced a magnitude 3.1 earthquake in St. Elizabeth on December 1 as a reminder that seismic activity can still affect areas already impacted by disasters.
Looking ahead to 2026, Black reaffirmed the Earthquake Unit’s role in strengthening national preparedness and public awareness.
“As we go forward into 2026, it’s the role of the Earthquake Unit to support all its partners, such as the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), as well as you, the general public, to help you with general information about areas that are most affected by earthquakes, data requests, as well as safety guidance,” she said.
Earthquake Awareness Week is being observed under the theme “Resilient Jamaica: We Weather the Storm and Brace for the Shake.” The observance, spearheaded by ODPEM, will feature a series of activities aimed at increasing public engagement and strengthening national resilience.
High schools in seven parishes hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa have been given the option to adopt a modified approach for the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) May/June 2026 examinations, as recovery efforts continue months after the Category Five storm.
The decision was taken under CXC’s Regional Disaster and Business Recovery Protocol following the hurricane’s passage in October 2025. The affected parishes are St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Hanover, St. James, Trelawny, St. Ann and Westmoreland, where several schools are still undergoing repairs.
CXC administers the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).
Registrar and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Wayne Wesley said CXC has approved an agreed plan of action with Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information to support students impacted by the disaster.
“CXC stands with Jamaica as the country recovers from the unprecedented devastation and dislocation caused by Hurricane Melissa,” Wesley said during a press conference at the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC) in Kingston on Wednesday, January 7.
Under the modified approach, candidates will sit Paper 01 (multiple choice) along with the School-Based Assessment (SBA) or Paper 03/02. Wesley said adjustments will also be made to accommodate students completing SBAs.
“Modifications and adjustments will be facilitated for Jamaican-based candidates with respect to school-based assessments,” he said.
School administrators must notify CXC by January 14 whether they intend to utilize the modified approach.
Wesley also announced additional concessions, including late registration for affected schools without penalty. “CXC will extend the timeline for submission of SBAs for schools negatively impacted to June 15, 2026, without any late fee requirements,” he said.
He further advised that all Jamaican candidates will receive their examination results in August 2026, in line with the rest of the region. Candidates who register and later determine they are unprepared may apply for a refund or defer their examinations to a 2027 sitting.
CXC Director of Operations Dr. Nicole Manning said special consideration will also be given to cases outside the seven designated parishes.
She noted, however, that the modified approach will not apply to certain competency-based subjects, including CSEC Theatre Arts, Human and Social Biology, Music, Physical Education and Sport, and CAPE Performing Arts.
“They’re very competency-based subjects and CXC, as you know, takes that very seriously,” Manning said. “If it is that for any reason they feel that they’re ill-prepared at the point closer to examination, they can defer or they can seek a refund.”
Hurricane Melissa caused widespread damage across western and northern Jamaica, disrupting schooling and forcing extended closures in several communities. CXC officials said the measures are aimed at ensuring fairness while maintaining the integrity of the regional examinations system.
The Miami Heat will celebrate Jamaica Night on Tuesday, January 13, combining basketball, culture, and philanthropy as part of the team’s ongoing support for Jamaica’s recovery following Hurricane Melissa.
According to The Gleaner, a portion of proceeds from the game will be donated to Jamaica’s hurricane rebuilding efforts. The Heat have already committed significant resources to the island’s recovery, pledging US$1 million and donating 68 tons of hurricane relief supplies, including food items and medical kits.
A spokeswoman for the Miami Heat told The Gleaner that Jamaican dancehall star Sean Paul is expected to attend the game and meet fans on the court at halftime. Special ticket packages will be offered, giving patrons access to an on-court meet-and-greet with the entertainer.
Funds raised through Jamaica Night will be channeled through Food For The Poor, an organization Sean Paul has been working closely with to deliver hurricane assistance to affected parishes across the island.
The initiative has also received support from within the Heat roster. Norman Powell, whose father is Jamaican and who represents Jamaica internationally, has personally donated US$100,000 toward hurricane relief through his foundation. Powell, a member of the Jamaican national basketball team, has long spoken about his pride in his Jamaican heritage and his strong ties to the country.
Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair, praised the Heat for what he described as meaningful corporate responsibility.
“The Miami Heat has long been an integral part of our community and has always reached out to the community whenever the need arises,” Mair said. “This is truly big and I congratulate the Miami Heat on this magnificent gesture.”
Mair also noted that the team hosted a Jamaica Night last year as part of its community outreach efforts. “The Miami Heat has always risen to the occasion when called on,” he added.
In October, the Heat had announced their US$1 million pledge to support Jamaica’s recovery initiatives, made in collaboration with the Micky & Madeleine Arison Family Foundation and Carnival Corporation & plc. That donation is benefiting Direct Relief, a humanitarian organization focused on providing essential medical supplies and resources in disaster-affected communities.
“Our hearts go out to the people of Jamaica,” said Eric Woolworth, president of The Heat Group’s Business Operations, at the time. “In Florida, we are all too familiar with the widespread devastation caused by a Category 5 storm. Direct Relief provides life-saving and ongoing assistance, which is so critical as residents begin the long road to rebuilding their communities.”
Tuesday’s Jamaica Night is expected to further spotlight the ongoing recovery efforts while celebrating Jamaican culture and the island’s deep ties to South Florida.
The Love and Harmony Cruise, the Caribbean’s premier floating celebration of reggae, dancehall, and Caribbean culture, has unveiled its 2026 lineup, promising another unforgettable musical voyage at sea. Now entering its eighth sailing, the cruise has firmly cemented itself as a must-attend experience for music lovers around the world.
Setting sail from Miami, Florida, aboard the Norwegian Jewel from April 1–6, 2026, the weeklong adventure will feature iconic performances and island stops in Freeport, Bahamas, on April 2 and Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on April 4, before returning to Miami.
At the heart of this year’s cruise is reggae legend Beres Hammond, affectionately known as “The Captain” of Love and Harmony, whose soulful delivery and timeless love songs have anchored the event since its inception. Joining him are dancehall powerhouse Busy Signal, lovers-rock ambassador Romain Virgo, genre-defying songwriter Tanya Stephens, international crossover sensation Maxi Priest, roots reggae stalwart Pinchers, and lyricist Agent Sasco, with additional artists to be announced in the coming weeks.
Fans have already been treated to early teases confirming performances by Minister Marion Hall (formerly Lady Saw) and Carlene Davis, who will bring a special gospel concert to the itinerary, adding a spiritual dimension to the cruise’s diverse musical offerings.
Since its early days, Love and Harmony has been a cultural institution that celebrates unity, heritage, and Caribbean music. Organisers envisioned not just another party cruise but a space where people from all walks of life could connect deeply with the rhythms of reggae, dancehall, and soca.
Year after year, the cruise has drawn thousands of fans from across the U.S., Caribbean, Canada, Europe, and beyond. The experience has become a multi-faceted celebration: themed parties, interactive workshops, curated DJ sets, island excursions and intimate artist meet-and-greets complement the headlining shows.
In a noteworthy extension of its mission, the Love and Harmony team has also embraced meaningful give-back initiatives. In late 2025, organisers partnered with relief efforts in Jamaica to deliver vital aid to communities affected by Hurricane Melissa, and the 2026 sailing will continue this spirit of service, inviting cruisers to support the island’s ongoing recovery.
Harmonizers regularly return year after year, drawn by the camaraderie, the cultural immersion, and the feeling that, for six days at least, the world exists in perfect rhythm. With its historic legacy and ever-expanding roster of legendary artists, the 2026 Love and Harmony Cruise looks set to raise the bar yet again.
The City of Miami Commission has approved a resolution to begin negotiations on transferring management of the historic Tower Theater back to Miami Dade College (MDC), following a vote at its January 8 commission meeting.
The item was sponsored by Mayor Eileen Higgins and District 3 Commissioner Rolando Escalona, whose district includes the Little Havana landmark.
“The Tower Theater holds a special place in the heart of our city as a cultural and educational landmark,” Mayor Higgins said. “Under Miami Dade College’s stewardship, this iconic space will continue to uplift Little Havana’s vibrant arts scene and small business community. I look forward to spending many evenings in this beautiful theater as we celebrate 100 years of stories, creativity, and community.”
Commissioner Escalona underscored the theater’s cultural significance and the importance of long-term protections as management discussions move forward.
“The Tower Theater is more than a building—it’s a symbol of Little Havana’s cultural identity,” Escalona said. “Partnering with Miami Dade College allows us to protect its historic legacy while activating it with programming that reflects our community, supports the arts, and keeps this iconic space alive and accessible.”
He added that the agreement would include “explicit safeguards and enforceable protections to preserve the City’s assets and ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship,” calling the move “a responsible and forward-thinking step” toward ensuring the venue’s financial sustainability for future generations.
Miami Dade College welcomed the commission’s decision, citing its long-standing relationship with the theater.
“Miami Dade College has a long-standing commitment to the arts, film, and community engagement,” said Maryam Laguna Borrego, MDC’s senior vice president and chief operating officer. “We look forward to working collaboratively with the City of Miami, community leaders, local organizations, artists and residents to ensure the theater remains an active, inclusive, and welcoming cultural space.”
MDC operated the Tower Theater for more than 20 years before the City of Miami declined to renew the college’s management contract in 2022. The decision sparked protests from Miami’s arts and film communities. In 2023, the city commission voted to place the theater’s operations under District 3, then represented by former Commissioner Joe Carollo.
The newly approved resolution initiates negotiations and does not immediately finalize the transfer, but it marks a significant step toward returning management of the landmark venue to the college that oversaw it for more than two decades.
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department has launched Operation Fast and Furious, a citywide traffic safety initiative aimed at cracking down on aggressive driving and reducing serious crashes on local roads.
The program got the green light on Tuesday after the City Commission approved $51,000 in grant funding from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to support stepped-up enforcement and public education efforts.
Police say aggressive driving — including speeding, unsafe lane changes, failure to yield, tailgating and ignoring railroad crossings — remains one of the leading causes of severe crashes and traffic fatalities.
“Operation Fast and Furious is about saving lives,” Mayor Dean Trantalis said. “By increasing enforcement in high-risk areas, we are sending a clear message that aggressive driving will not be tolerated on our roads.”
As part of the initiative, officers will conduct high-visibility traffic enforcement in identified hot spots across the city, operating during both daytime and nighttime hours. Night enforcement will be a major focus, as data shows speeding violations tend to increase after dark.
Grant funds will be used to purchase handheld speed radar devices, improving officers’ ability to detect and document speeding violations. FLPD will also deploy a mobile speed radar trailer in areas with persistent speeding and aggressive driving complaints.
Beyond enforcement, the initiative includes a strong public education component. Traffic safety materials will be distributed in English, Spanish and Creole at community events, and safety messages will be shared through city and police social media platforms.
“This program strengthens enforcement while also educating the public, helping protect residents, visitors and everyone who uses our roadways,” City Manager Rickelle Williams said.
Police Chief William Schultz added that the initiative reflects the city’s commitment to accountability on the roads. “Slowing drivers down and changing behavior makes our streets safer for everyone,” he said.
FLPD says Operation Fast and Furious will continue in the coming months as part of a broader push to improve roadway safety citywide.
Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group are moving ahead with one of PortMiami’s most ambitious cruise infrastructure projects to date, as leaders gather Thursday, January 8, for the groundbreaking of the new Cruise Terminal G.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava will join executives from Royal Caribbean Group, PortMiami and construction partners Lemartec–NV2A JV to mark the start of construction on the US$345 million terminal complex, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027.
The new Terminal G will be a state-of-the-art, LEED-certified facility serving Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. Designed to handle next-generation cruise ships carrying up to 7,000 passengers, the terminal is expected to rank among the largest cruise terminals in the world by passenger capacity.
Beyond cruise operations, the project includes a multi-level parking garage integrated with a ground-level intermodal transportation hub. The design aims to streamline road traffic, passenger drop-off, and public transit access, strengthening connectivity between the port and Miami-Dade’s broader transportation network.
According to project details, the terminal’s main building will separate embarkation and disembarkation by floor, allowing passenger flows to move across multiple levels. This layout is intended to reduce congestion, improve circulation, and speed up turnaround times during peak cruise days.
Construction officially began in July 2025 with the demolition of the original Terminal G, which opened in 1999 and served PortMiami for more than 20 years. The new structure is also being positioned as a major architectural addition to the port’s skyline, joining a growing lineup of large-scale cruise developments driven by increasing ship sizes and passenger demand.
Thursday’s ceremony, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. at 1103 N. Cruise Blvd., will include Miami-Dade Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Morales, PortMiami Director and CEO Hydi Webb, members of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty, Lemartec President and CEO Manuel R. Garcia-Tuñon, and NV2A President and CEO Gilberto Neves.
Once completed, Terminal G will further solidify Royal Caribbean Group’s long-standing presence at PortMiami and reinforce the port’s status as the world’s leading cruise hub.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana — West Indies’ quest to reclaim global T20 supremacy has received a timely surge of optimism, with Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirming that premier fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph are both on course to be fully fit for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The update eases months of uncertainty surrounding the Caribbean pace attack and restores belief that the two-time champions will arrive at the tournament with their frontline strike weapons intact.
Shamar Joseph back at full throttle
Encouraging news emerged Tuesday from CWI Head of the Medical Panel, Dr. Donovan Bennett, who delivered a glowing assessment of Shamar Joseph’s recovery from a shoulder injury that had sidelined him since September.
“The latest that I saw on Shamar is that he is fit and ready to go,” Dr. Bennett said. “He was bowling pretty fast, in the 140s (kph) without any discomfort.”
Shamar’s absence had been keenly felt. He missed the West Indies’ Test tour of India as well as the One-Day International series against Bangladesh, sparking concerns over his readiness for the global event. Those fears have now been firmly put to rest following a carefully managed rehabilitation program, which included specialist evaluation in England.
Alzarri Joseph closing the gap
While slightly behind his pace partner, Alzarri Joseph is also tracking positively after overcoming a lower-back issue that ruled him out of the India Tests.
“Alzarri has resumed return-to-play protocols and is currently hitting his required fitness targets,” Dr. Bennett confirmed. “Based on what I am seeing, both of them should be ready for the World Cup.”
Alzarri’s return to full fitness would provide West Indies with experience, speed, and tactical flexibility, qualities essential for success on the demanding subcontinental surfaces.
A reinforced attack at the perfect time
Both Shamar and Alzarri last featured competitively in September 2025, making their anticipated return especially significant as West Indies sharpen their arsenal ahead of the sport’s biggest short-format spectacle.
Their availability dramatically strengthens the Caribbean bowling unit, restoring depth and intimidation to an attack that thrives on pace and aggression.
Squad decisions loom as preparations intensify
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow confirmed that a provisional squad has already been selected, with the final 15-man roster to be ratified following the West Indies’ T20 International series against Afghanistan, scheduled for January 18-22 in India.
Further refinement will come during a three-match T20I tour of South Africa later in January, providing vital match practice ahead of the tournament opener.
World Cup challenge begins in Kolkata
West Indies will launch their T20 World Cup campaign on February 7 in Kolkata, facing Bangladesh in their opening Group C fixture. They will also contend with England, Nepal, and Italy as they chase a place in the knockout rounds.
With both Josephs nearing full fitness, the Caribbean side appears poised to attack the tournament with renewed confidence, and genuine pace-powered ambition.
In a powerful reaffirmation of its long-standing relationship with Caribbean athletics, World Athletics has committed US$100,000 (approximately J$16 million) to assist Jamaica’s track and field community following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe during a media briefing at the headquarters of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA), signaling both immediate relief and the continuation of a broader regional support strategy.
Structured recovery for athletes and officials
The funds, to be disbursed through the International Athletics Foundation, are designated for recovery pathways and targeted support programs for athletes, coaches, and officials whose training environments and livelihoods were disrupted by the storm.
“We can recruit external teams and agencies to come to the table to help,” Coe said. “And I’m delighted to be able to announce this morning that we will make available $100,000 to help with those pathways and those programs.”
Ian Forbes, First Vice President of the JAAA, confirmed that the association will consult directly with athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders to determine the most effective and equitable use of the funds.
Relief effort extends beyond immediate funding
World Athletics’ response will not end with the financial grant. Coe also revealed plans for a 5K charity run in Kingston this April, following discussions with Mayor Andrew Swaby. Coe will serve as patron of the event, with proceeds directed toward broader hurricane relief efforts.
The initiative underscores a commitment to community-driven recovery while expanding the reach of support beyond the track and field fraternity.
Jamaica visit highlights high-level engagement
Now in his 10th year as president of World Athletics, Coe’s visit to Jamaica included meetings with Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader Mark Golding, reinforcing the non-partisan and national significance of the relief initiative.
He also engaged with key athletics stakeholders and visited Jamaica College and Excelsior High School, institutions central to Jamaica’s athletic pipeline and international success.
A consistent record of Caribbean intervention
The Jamaica relief package reflects a broader and well-established pattern of World Athletics engagement across the Caribbean.
Historically, the global governing body, often working through the International Athletics Foundation, has stepped in to provide emergency assistance following natural disasters, while also supporting facility rehabilitation, coaching education, technical officiating programs, and youth development initiatives throughout the region.
These interventions have typically blended short-term stabilization with long-term capacity building, ensuring that affected federations can recover without sacrificing future growth. Jamaica has frequently served as a regional hub for such initiatives, hosting educational programs and pilot projects that have benefited neighboring Caribbean federations.
More than aid, a statement of solidarity
As the international governing body for track and field, World Athletics’ involvement in Jamaica represents more than financial support. It is a reaffirmation of the Caribbean’s central role in the global sport and a recognition that safeguarding its athletic infrastructure is essential to the future of track and field worldwide.
Coe leaves behind a tangible framework for recovery and a renewed expression of solidarity between World Athletics and the Caribbean athletics community.
Jamaica’s senior men’s football team will continue its player-development strategy when it faces Grenada in an international friendly on January 18 in St. George’s, a match designed as much for opportunity as for competition.
With the fixture scheduled outside the FIFA international window, interim head coach Rudolph Speid has assembled a 24-member training squad largely composed of locally based players and those competing in North America. Several regular internationals remain unavailable due to club commitments, opening the door for emerging talent to press their case.
Development remains central to JFF planning
Speid was clear that the friendly aligns with the Jamaica Football Federation’s annual commitment to domestic player development, rather than serving as a direct tactical rehearsal for upcoming World Cup-related fixtures.
“We’ve always had this development game for the last three or four years,” Speid said at a press conference on Wednesday. “Because we’re in World Cup qualifiers doesn’t mean we’re going to change that.”
Nevertheless, the context has shifted. With Jamaica preparing for the FIFA Intercontinental play-offs in Mexico in March, the stakes surrounding the friendly have quietly risen.
Opportunity knocks ahead of World Cup Play-Offs
While not officially part of preparations for Mexico, Speid acknowledged that the Grenada match carries added relevance as the Reggae Boyz fine-tune their broader player pool.
“It has more significance now, yes, because some players can catch our eye to make up the rest of the squad (for the playoffs),” he said.
Jamaica will face New Caledonia in the semi-final, with the winner advancing to meet DR Congo for a coveted place at the FIFA World Cup finals this summer.
Domestic players in the spotlight
The Grenada encounter is particularly significant for locally based players, many of whom rarely receive international exposure during FIFA windows dominated by overseas professionals.
Speid emphasized that the match provides a rare platform for these players to demonstrate readiness at the international level, reinforcing the JFF’s broader objective of deepening Jamaica’s talent base.
Camps underway as selection process continues
The current training camp began on Wednesday and concludes on Friday, with another camp scheduled for next week ahead of the team’s departure. The final squad for the Grenada friendly will be announced at the conclusion of those sessions.
Looking ahead, Speid revealed that the JFF is actively working to secure additional international friendlies in February as preparations for the Intercontinental play-offs gather momentum.
Expanded player pool for February camp
As part of that preparation, Speid hopes to assemble a 60-player squad for next month’s camp. He has already named 52 players, with scouting and negotiations ongoing to finalize the remaining eight.
The approach reflects a deliberate effort to widen selection options and ensure competition across all positions as Jamaica moves closer to a defining phase of its World Cup journey.
Training Squad: Goalkeepers: Kemar Foster (Mount Pleasant), Tafari Chambers (Mount Pleasant), Daniel Russell (Portmore United)
Defenders:
Christopher Ainsworth (Cavalier), Javain Brown (Real Salt Lake), Damion Lowe (Houston Dynamo), Ronaldo Webster (Shkendija), Stephen Young (Portmore United), Kyle Ming (Mount Pleasant), Fitzroy Cummings (Mount Pleasant), Robino Gordon (Phoenix Chapelton)
Midfielders:
Adrian Reid Jr. (Cavalier), Shamar Watson (Cavalier), Dwayne Atkinson (Rhode Island), Andre Lewis (Spokane Velocity), Tyreek Magee (Mount Pleasant), Jahshaun Anglin (Mount Pleasant), Jaheim Thomas (Arnett Gardens), Nickyle Ellis (Racing FC)
Forwards:
Romario Williams (Indy Eleven), Trayvon Reid (Harbour View), Daniel Green (Mount Pleasant), Jourdain Fletcher (Montego Bay United), Warner Brown (Mount Pleasant)
MUMBAI, India — As the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season approaches, the spotlight turns to Deandra Dottin, West Indies’ explosive allrounder, who has joined UP Warriorz in a move that promises to redefine the team’s prospects.
For Dottin, this signing represents more than a new contract; it is a chance at redemption, a full-circle moment after a turbulent period in the league. Following her high-profile exit from Gujarat Giants two seasons ago and a year-long absence from the WPL, Dottin’s acquisition by UP Warriorz, secured in a bidding war with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, signals both confidence in her talent and a fresh start.
“I do look at this as a fresh start. It’s a new team, so it is like a new beginning,” Dottin told ESPNcricinfo. “I actually feel warm, welcomed and completely comfortable already.”
A boost for a rebuilding side
UP Warriorz, coming off a last-place finish in the previous season, view Dottin as a catalyst capable of transforming their fortunes. Despite modest numbers in recent stints in the WCPL and WBBL, her reputation and skill remain undeniably game-changing.
“I try to forget and move on very quickly,” Dottin said, emphasizing a present-focused mindset. “I build my confidence not really off past things but by being in the present.”
Her arrival brings explosive batting power, underpinned by a proven track record. Dottin is the all-time leading six-hitter in women’s T20 internationals, and even in a quieter WPL 2025 season, she cleared the ropes every 15.3 deliveries, outpacing international stars like Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry.
This dominance stems from a meticulous power-hitting regimen, including targeted throwdowns and mental visualization of opposing bowlers.
Fueling a winning mindset
Dottin’s mindset is as formidable as her batting. She speaks of a personal approach that combines focus, discipline, and confidence in the present, allowing her to navigate pressure and controversy alike.
“I was happy when UP Warriorz raised the paddle for me,” she said. “I aim to play to the best of my ability, and to hopefully lift the trophy.”
She also highlighted the energy of new teammates, describing the squad as “hungry,” signaling a culture ready to challenge the league’s established powers.
Season opener sparks intrigue
All eyes will be on Dottin for UP Warriorz’s season opener on Saturday against her former team, Gujarat Giants. The match promises drama and narrative tension, though Dottin maintains her composure.
“I guess, on that day, we will see,” she said, keeping her focus squarely on performance rather than headlines.
With Dottin leading the charge, UP Warriorz enters the 2026 WPL season not merely seeking wins, but reclaiming identity, ambition, and competitive edge, and for Dottin herself, a chance to write a new chapter defined by power, purpose, and possibility
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The West Indies Under-19 cricket team departed Grantley Adams International Airport on Tuesday, bound for Namibia and Zimbabwe, with ambitions to make a mark at the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026.
The squad carries momentum from recent series victories and a cohesive team spirit, meticulously nurtured through innovative preparation programs designed to sharpen both skills and strategy. With only execution remaining between them and their tournament objectives, the team projects confidence, focus, and ambition.
Challenging group, clear mandate
Drawn into Group D alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania, the Young Windies will begin their campaign against Tanzania in Windhoek on January 15.
Head coach Rohan Nurse acknowledged the challenge ahead while setting a tone of realistic ambition. “We’re daring to dream,” he said. “The fact that we would have played really well in the last two series has built confidence in the group.”
Innovative preparation bridges distance
Nurse highlighted the deliberate planning that brought the squad to this point, noting that maintaining cohesion since the team’s series victory over England last year required inventive approaches.
“We have been innovative with continuous communication, interactions, and online sessions where we share information,” he explained. “Everybody’s pretty clear in terms of what the objectives are.”
Aiming higher than ever
The primary objective is to surpass the performance of the 2022 squad, with the team seeking to reach at least the final stage of the tournament. Nurse emphasized the ambition underpinning the squad’s preparation:
“One of the minimum objectives for us is to ensure that we get into the final stage, which will be bettering the team from the last World Cup.”
Captain Joshua Dorne echoed his coach’s confidence, citing series wins over England and Sri Lanka as a source of momentum heading into Namibia.
“It gives us a big confidence boost going into the World Cup,” Dorne said. He also highlighted the value of wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew, whose senior international experience provides the team with both insight and leadership.
“It really means a lot, he has that international exposure, so he can give information at any time,” Dorne noted, underscoring Andrew’s pivotal role in guiding a young but ambitious squad.
With a blend of youthful energy, international exposure, and careful preparation, the West Indies Under-19 squad enters the ICC World Cup with focus, ambition, and a plan. As they touch down in Namibia, the Young Windies carry not just the hopes of the Caribbean, but a clear mandate: to perform, to excel, and to raise the standard of regional youth cricket on the global stage.
In 2025, Vybz Kartel — born Adidja Palmer — delivered one of the most remarkable return-to-power narratives in Caribbean music history, melding commercial success, festival dominance, major awards recognition, and high-profile industry debate into a year that redefined the global value of dancehall.
After being released from prison in July 2024 following the quashing of his conviction, Kartel wasted no time reclaiming the stage and global spotlight in 2025. His U.S. return was historic: on April 11, he headlined Reggae Fest at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center — his first U.S. performance in more than 20 years — a symbolic milestone that drew long-time fans back into live attendance and marked a new era for Caribbean acts in the American market.
Kartel’s international presence extended well beyond Brooklyn. He was featured on the lineup for Wireless Festival in London, one of Europe’s highest-profile urban music festivals, where his performances placed dancehall alongside rap, R&B, and Afrobeats headliners to global audiences.
The year’s awards season brought formal industry recognition. Kartel earned his first Grammy nomination in the Best Reggae Album category for Party With Me, a project largely recorded before his incarceration and released amid his legal battles. While the Grammy ultimately went to another artist, the nomination itself was a milestone for dancehall’s institutional visibility.
In February, Kartel was honoured with the Impact Award at the MOBO Awards in the UK, where he also performed on the show. Accepting the award onstage at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, he reflected on his journey from incarceration and illness to international stages, moments that underscored his resilience and cultural imprint.
Beyond traditional tours and awards, Kartel’s catalog grew richer in 2025. A 10th anniversary edition of his seminal Viking (Vybz Is King) album dropped on January 31, featuring classic hits alongside seven new tracks — including “God Is The Greatest” and “Dreams Are Made Of” — that amplified both nostalgia and fresh listening engagement.
Despite these peaks, the year wasn’t without controversy. A planned appearance at Trinidad and Tobago’s One Caribbean Music Festival became a focal point of industry debate after Kartel’s team withdrew from the show due to contractual disputes. Local organisers disclosed that the artist was contracted for US$1.35 million, with roughly US$950,000 already paid — a figure that stunned many in the Caribbean music business and ignited debate over booking fees and artist valuation. Critics argued such figures were out of reach for regional promoters; supporters said it underscored how top Caribbean artists can and should command market-reflective compensation.
That controversy dovetailed with broader discussion about how dancehall — a genre that fuels global hits and influences countless artists — has historically been underpaid relative to its impact. Kartel’s situation forced promoters, peers, and cultural commentators to confront the economics of Caribbean artistry at scale.
Fan demand in late 2025 also showed in North America beyond Barclays. Reports of shows in Toronto — including “OVO Presents Vybz Kartel” dates at Scotiabank Arena — illustrated that audiences continue to pack large venues for his performances months after his U.S. debut, a clear indication that the commercial engine behind his name remains strong.
Beyond performances and awards, Kartel’s 2025 was marked by a serious commitment to humanitarian work following Hurricane Melissa, which slammed Jamaica as a Category 5 storm in late October. Shortly after returning home, the dancehall artist launched the Adidja Palmer Foundation (APF) and kicked off relief operations in the island’s hardest-hit western parishes.
Through the foundation, Kartel delivered essential supplies — including thousands of bottles of water, hydration kits and bread — while partnering with World Central Kitchen to clear debris and serve more than 3,500 hot meals to displaced families. He also provided direct support to a children’s home in Hanover, connecting with young residents and pledging ongoing assistance.
Kartel’s team has said that the APF plans long-term commitments, including adopting the Westhaven Children’s Home for the Disabled, repairing infrastructure at another orphanage, and creating community hubs for women, children, and mental health support.
In 2025, Vybz Kartel wasn’t just the most talked-about Caribbean entertainer; he was a catalyst for industry conversation. Through sold-out shows, global festival stages, humanitarian work, major awards recognition, and even contentious booking negotiations, he reframed how Caribbean artists are seen — and valued — in the global music economy.
Adam Stewart.
(Photo credit: Sandals Resorts International)
At a moment when the Caribbean’s tourism economy faced one of its greatest tests, Adam Stewart emerged as a defining figure in both business resilience and community support. In 2025, the Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International (SRI) didn’t just guide his iconic hospitality empire through crisis — he used its scale and influence to help shape Jamaica’s rebound and lay groundwork for future regional growth.
The year began with a broader vision for Caribbean tourism. At the Skift Global Forum in New York City, Stewart outlined an ambitious expansion of the Sandals and Beaches brands, including plans for a Beaches Resort in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — a 360‑room, family‑focused all‑inclusive property at Mount Wynne Beach valued at about US$500 million, widely discussed as one of the largest tourism investments in that nation’s history.
Stewart also highlighted upcoming developments across the group’s pipeline, from 101 new suites at Beaches Turks & Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village to emerging properties like Beaches Exuma, Beaches Barbados, and Beaches Runaway Bay in Jamaica, representing more than US$1 billion in combined investment.
Under Stewart’s leadership, Sandals and Beaches operate a network of 17 resorts across eight Caribbean islands, employing more than 20,000 team members, with additional properties planned in high‑growth family tourism markets — milestones that underscore Stewart’s emphasis on regional jobs, training, and local economic linkages.
In June, Stewart’s influence crossed into global business strategy when he was invited to join the Wall Street Journal CEO Council, a prestigious forum of top executives shaping global commerce and innovation. His seat at that table affirmed the Caribbean’s hospitality sector as a strategic voice in international business dialogue.
Industry recognition followed in 2025. At the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas, Sandals and Beaches collectively took home 16 titles, including Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 32nd consecutive year and top honours for multiple individual resorts such as Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Dunn’s River, and Beaches Turks & Caicos. Awards also celebrated Sandals Royal Curaçao, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals South Coast and others across major categories.
The defining test of Stewart’s year came in late October when Hurricane Melissa devastated parts of Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure. In response, he led transparent communication with key stakeholders — from global travel advisors to frontline staff — and pledged that 100 per cent of Sandals and Beaches employees would remain on payroll and receive Christmas bonuses, even at resorts that were temporarily closed for repairs. The company also allocated more than US$3 million in staff recovery aid, providing direct support to families grappling with storm impacts.
By early December 2025, five resorts — including Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Ocho Rios, Sandals Negril, and Beaches Negril — were ready to reopen with full amenities, while others scheduled for May 2026 would return stronger and refreshed, part of a strategy Stewart calls “Sandals 2.0.”
Beyond business leadership, 2025 was a banner year for the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm Stewart guides, marked by record‑setting community engagement and targeted disaster recovery support across the Caribbean.
During the holiday season, the foundation completed its largest toy distribution to date, delivering 45,000 toys across nine Caribbean destinations — including Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Grenada, Barbados, Curaçao and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The initiative, supported by major toy partners, focused not only on joy and celebration but on reaching communities still recovering from Hurricane Melissa.
In one of its most high‑impact health sector contributions of the year, the Sandals Foundation donated approximately US$6 million in medical equipment and supplies to Bustamante Hospital for Children in Kingston. The donation came on short notice after the Ministry of Health requested support to strengthen capacity for critically ill pediatric patients being transferred from hospitals damaged by the hurricane. Equipment included neonatal ventilators, infusion pumps, blood gas analyzers and other life‑saving devices, boosting Jamaica’s only specialist children’s facility at a moment of acute need.
On the environmental and livelihood front, the foundation partnered with RUBiS Energy Jamaica to deliver $3.5 million in aid to fishers in Westmoreland whose boats, gear and means of income were devastated by Melissa. The package included hundreds of rolls of fishing wire and thousands of litres of fuel to restore boat operations, with the foundation also facilitating psychological support and solar solutions to help communities stay connected.
And in October, nearly 200 volunteers were mobilised for a major coastal cleanup across Jamaican beaches as part of International Coastal Cleanup Day, bringing together Sandals staff, partners and community stakeholders to remove almost 1,000 pounds of debris and highlight long‑term environmental stewardship.
Taken together, these actions show a broad, year‑long strategy under Stewart’s direction: from holiday support for children and families, to health system strengthening, to economic rebuilding and environmental activism.
In 2025, Jamaica’s Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness not only secured a historic third consecutive term in office but also presided over what many observers are calling the most consequential year of his political career — a year defined by sharp declines in violent crime and a major climate disaster from which the island is now rapidly rebounding
Holness’ re-election in September came against the backdrop of measurable improvements in public safety and a widely praised response to Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm in October. The Jamaica Labour Party’s campaign leaned heavily on these two pillars — security and effective crisis leadership — and voters rewarded continuity over upheaval.
At the start of 2025, Jamaica’s homicide figures told a story of sustained decline: official data showed a 13 per cent decrease in murders early in the year, with just 73 homicides by early February compared with 84 for the same period in 2024 — the lowest start to a year in recent memory.
As the year progressed, statistics reflected an even sharper drop. By late May, government figures showed a 43.3 per cent reduction in murders compared to the same period in 2024, with 275 homicides recorded from January 1 to May 28.
Holness and his ministers seized on those trends. In late November, the prime minister publicly stated that Jamaica was on track for its lowest annual murder count in nearly four decades, projecting fewer than 700 homicides for all of 2025 — a stark contrast to the 1,141 recorded in 2024. It achieved its projection at the end of 2025.
Security officials credited the downturn to a multi-pronged strategy involving enhanced intelligence-led policing, expanded surveillance technology, and sustained investment in the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Defence Force — including historic firearms seizures and gang disruption efforts.
Yet these gains were not uncontested. Human-rights advocates raised serious concerns about the heavy reliance on states of public emergency and intensified operations, arguing that civil liberties and community trust could be strained. But among many Jamaicans, especially in urban centres long plagued by violence, the overall sense was one of cautious optimism as neighbourhoods once beset by regular shootings reported quieter streets and fewer visible gang confrontations.
Just as security trends became politically advantageous, Hurricane Melissa threatened to undercut Jamaica’s progress. The October storm inflicted widespread damage, with thousands of homes and critical infrastructure — roads, power stations, hospitals — destroyed or severely compromised. Early reports put initial deaths in Jamaica at multiple single figures, with far more extensive impacts across the island’s western parishes.
Holness declared the entire island a disaster area and led the government’s coordinated emergency response. Unlike some disaster scenarios where appeals for international help are immediate, Jamaica leveraged existing disaster-risk financing to begin urgent relief and then mobilised global support for reconstruction. In December, government officials announced that the IMF, World Bank, Caribbean Development Bank, CAF and IDB Group had assembled a coordinated US$6.7 billion package to aid recovery and reconstruction over the next three years — a major win for Jamaica’s fiscal strategy and long-term resilience plans.
International leaders also praised Jamaica’s quick rebound. Messages of solidarity flowed from across the world, including personal expressions of support from Commonwealth figures — a symbolic nod to the island’s resilience in the face of one of the stormiest seasons on record.
Holness’ third-term victory, while narrower than some past JLP landslides, reinforced the political capital he has built around “security first” governance. The campaign’s emphasis on crime statistics and economic stability — even as global inflationary pressures weighed on consumer costs — resonated with voters weary of persistent violence and climate anxieties.
Critics will continue to sharpen their focus on civil rights, economic equity and deeper social reforms. But as Jamaicans move into 2026, the story of 2025 remains one of dramatic shifts — both in public safety and in how the nation responds to crisis with an eye toward long-term recovery and resilience.
For Andrew Holness, the year defined not just a political victory but a tangible transformation in the country’s recent trajectory.
When world media and global institutions compile lists of influential leaders, they rarely include many from Small Island Developing States. In 2025, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley proved not only that the Caribbean can compete on that stage — but that it can lead conversations shaping the future of climate policy, economic justice, and youth empowerment.
For the third consecutive year, Mottley was named to Forbes’ World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, ranking No. 99 among a global roster of political and business heavyweights. The annual list evaluates influence through economic impact, media presence, and policy leadership — and placing in the top 100 underscores just how central Mottley’s voice has become on the world stage.
That recognition didn’t come in a vacuum. Throughout 2025, Mottley continued to amplify Barbados’ leadership on issues that disproportionately affect small islands while expanding the country’s diplomatic reach.
Arguably the most consequential thread through Mottley’s 2025 was climate diplomacy. She was named Global Chair of UNICEF’s Green Rising initiative, an effort aimed at mobilising millions of young people worldwide to address climate change through skills development, sustainable livelihoods, and community resilience. This expanded a programme that had already equipped thousands of youths with training, mentorship, and green-sector opportunities — and linked Barbados directly to a global youth climate network.
Mottley’s climate credentials were further underlined when she was chosen as a 2025 honouree of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, an international accolade that recognises leaders fostering peace, solidarity, and substantive action on society’s most pressing issues. The award cited her longstanding work on climate action and her role in pushing innovative financial mechanisms — such as debt-for-climate swaps and reforms intended to expand resilience financing for vulnerable nations.
Barbados also stood out as a finalist for the 2025 Earthshot Prize in the “Fix Our Climate” category, a rare and influential global environmental honour. The nomination highlighted the Bridgetown Initiative — a bold proposal Mottley championed that seeks to reform international financial architecture so that climate-vulnerable states can access capital more equitably and effectively. The initiative has helped shape global climate finance discussions by pushing for debt pause clauses, better use of SDRs (Special Drawing Rights), and more flexible lending structures.
Mottley’s influence was not limited to climate forums. In January 2025, she received one of Suriname’s highest national honours, the Grand Cordon in the Order of the Palm, in recognition of her leadership in strengthening regional ties, deepening economic cooperation, and advancing CARICOM integration. Her leadership was specifically cited for efforts to expand free movement and economic cooperation within the Caribbean Community.
She also won the Winnie Mandela Humanitarian Award — a culturally rooted Caribbean recognition of her advocacy on behalf of Small Island Developing States and her ability to connect climate justice to broader themes of equity, dignity, and global solidarity.
Beyond formal titles and trophies, Mottley’s presence in global forums helped anchor Barbados — and the Caribbean — in conversations about climate adaptation, economic reform, and youth inclusion. Her sustained push for 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030, greater access to climate finance, and equitable global policy frameworks collectively have made Barbados a case study for resilience and innovation among island nations.
Mottley’s leadership in 2025 reflected a duality that few leaders achieve: she stayed grounded in national priorities while projecting influence far beyond her country’s shores. Her repeated inclusion on international power lists, leadership roles in global initiatives, and honours from distant capitals speak to a rare combination of vision and diplomatic currency.
For a Caribbean leader to be continually recognised alongside presidents, central bankers, and corporate CEOs is noteworthy. For Mia Mottley, it was a year that confirmed not just her global profile — but Barbados’ place on the map of influential climate, economic, and policy discourse moving into 2026.
The Jamaican Government has signaled a crackdown on fraud and misrepresentation surrounding the Overseas Employment Programme, amid growing concerns that the highly sought-after initiative is being exploited by unauthorized actors online.
Labour and Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. said the government is moving decisively to protect the integrity of the programme after receiving reports of individuals falsely using his image and name to promote illegal recruitment schemes on social media platforms.
Charles disclosed that he recently received an anonymous WhatsApp message containing a TikTok video of himself, which was being circulated with instructions for viewers to contact him directly to access the overseas farm work programme. He said similar messages have been sent to him in the past and warned that such activity will not be tolerated.
The minister said he was scheduled to meet with the Permanent Secretary on Tuesday, January 6, to address the issue and coordinate action with relevant authorities, stressing that anyone operating outside the law should consider the warning final.
He was speaking at a send-off ceremony for seasonal agricultural workers departing for Canada, held at the Ministry’s Overseas Employment Centre on East Street in downtown Kingston.
Charles underscored the importance of the programme, particularly as many Jamaicans continue to recover from the economic fallout of Hurricane Melissa, which recently affected several parishes in western Jamaica. He said lawful overseas employment remains a critical lifeline for families and communities across the island.
A total of 183 farm workers were scheduled to depart for Canada over two days, with 98 leaving on Tuesday and another 85 departing from Norman Manley International Airport on Wednesday. Of that group, 22 workers are participating in the programme for the first time.
The minister also noted that 2026 marks 60 years of partnership between Jamaica and Canada under the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme, describing it as one of the country’s most enduring and impactful labour arrangements. He pointed out that many participants have been able to finance their children’s tertiary education through earnings from the programme.
Charles encouraged departing workers to remain focused and disciplined, warning that distractions and negative influences can jeopardize their opportunities. He also urged experienced participants to mentor newer workers and help guide them through the process.
The Overseas Employment Programme continues to expand, according to official figures. Since January 1, 2025, a total of 15,156 Jamaicans have secured employment opportunities in Canada and the United States—an increase of 687 workers compared to 2024.
Of that total, 59 per cent participated in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme, three per cent in the Low-Skilled Programme, and 38 per cent in the United States Programme.
Charles said the figures reflect more than numerical growth, emphasizing that overseas employment has played a direct role in supporting households and strengthening communities nationwide, even as the government moves to safeguard the programme from abuse.
In a year defined by excellence, resilience, and history-making performances, two Caribbean athletes rose above a crowded global field to deliver defining moments for their nations and the wider region.
From the explosive speed of the 100 meters to the raw power of the javelin runway, Oblique Seville and Keshorn Walcott authored performances in 2025 that did more than win medals — they reasserted Caribbean supremacy on the world’s biggest athletic stages.
For their sustained brilliance, championship pedigree, and lasting impact, CNW Network names Jamaican Oblique Seville and Trinidadian Keshorn Walcott as its Sports Personalities of the Year for 2025.
Keshorn Walcott
At 32, Keshorn Walcott delivered one of the finest seasons of his distinguished career, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest javelin throwers the Caribbean has ever produced.
The defining moment came at the World Athletics Championships in Japan, where Walcott produced a monumental personal-best throw of 88.16 meters to claim the gold medal. The performance not only crowned him world champion but reaffirmed his place at the pinnacle of the event, years after first announcing himself on the Olympic stage.
Walcott’s world title was no isolated peak. Throughout 2025, consistency became his calling card. Competing on the highly competitive European Diamond League circuit, he repeatedly surpassed the 80-meter mark, demonstrating elite form against the sport’s deepest international fields.
His dominance extended closer to home as well. At the NAAATT Open Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, Walcott unleashed an 83.77-meter throw, comfortably asserting his superiority at the regional level while underscoring his global readiness.
In a discipline defined by precision and power, Walcott’s 2025 season stood as a masterclass in longevity, discipline, and championship execution.
Oblique Seville
If Walcott’s season was a testament to sustained excellence, Oblique Seville’s 2025 campaign was a declaration of arrival.
The crowning achievement came on September 14, 2025, at the World Athletics Championships, where Seville delivered the race of his life. Charging through the finish line in 9.77 seconds — a personal best — he captured gold in the men’s 100 meters, securing his first major individual global title.
The victory carried historic weight. It ended Jamaica’s nine-year wait for a men’s 100-meter world champion and marked the first time Jamaica finished first and second in the event at a global championship. Seville’s time also elevated him to elite company, making him the fifth-fastest Jamaican in history.
Seville proved his world-class credentials across the Diamond League circuit, repeatedly defeating the sport’s biggest names. At the London Athletics Meet on July 19, he stormed to victory in 9.86 seconds, comfortably beating a field that included Noah Lyles and Letsile Tebogo. Weeks later, at Athletissima Lausanne, Seville again defeated Lyles, clocking 9.87 seconds under wet and demanding conditions.
His domestic form was equally impressive. At the Jamaican Athletics Championships, Seville ran 9.83 seconds to claim second place behind Kishane Thompson in a fiercely contested final. Earlier in the season, at the Racers Grand Prix in Kingston on June 7, he dipped under 10 seconds with a 9.97-second run, signaling what was to come.
Across continents and conditions, Seville combined raw speed with growing composure — qualities that ultimately delivered sprinting immortality on the world stage.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued a fresh appeal to specialist nurses in the Jamaican diaspora to return home and work in the public health system, as the country continues to grapple with long-standing shortages of skilled medical personnel.
The call was made public this week through a flyer shared by Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton on social media, inviting “suitably qualified specialist nurses” living overseas to consider employment in Jamaica’s public health sector. In his post on X, Tufton urged nurses abroad to respond, describing the appeal as a direct request for their expertise to help strengthen the local health system.
According to the ministry, the recruitment drive targets nurses with training and experience in critical and intensive care, operating theatre services, oncology, pediatrics and neonatology, accident and emergency, nephrology and renal dialysis, ophthalmology, and mental health. Applicants must be registered nurses with specialist training in their respective fields.
The ministry says returning nurses will be offered a competitive salary package, relocation assistance, uniform, meal and taxi allowances, and access to training opportunities. Applications are to be submitted by February 13, 2026.
Specialist Nurses we need you back home!!!
Interested? Send your resume to ink@christufton.com or contact below. pic.twitter.com/lvOxEEWg3k
Jamaica’s appeal to diaspora nurses comes at a time when the health sector continues to struggle with long-standing workforce gaps. Officials and healthcare advocates have repeatedly pointed to the migration of nurses — especially those with specialist training — as a key factor straining public services.
Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has acknowledged the problem publicly on several occasions. In July 2025, he noted that Jamaica loses, on average, about 500 specialist nurses to migration each year, and highlighted the need for both recruitment from abroad and stronger local training to sustain public health staffing levels.
Shortages extend beyond specialist roles. In 2024, data from the Nursing Council of Jamaica showed more than 1,140 verification requests from foreign entities for Jamaican nursing licences, the majority from registered nurses seeking to work overseas — representing nearly a quarter of the current nursing cadre.
The broader pattern of migration has deep roots. Studies indicate that Jamaican nurses have emigrated in significant numbers for decades, driven largely by stronger salaries, better working conditions, and recruitment opportunities in wealthier countries such as the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. By one estimate, about two-thirds of Jamaica’s nurses had emigrated, contributing to chronic staffing gaps and conditions where health facilities face vacancy rates that can exceed 40 per cent.
The gap is especially acute in specialist areas such as critical care, emergency and neonatology, where skilled practitioners are in high demand both locally and abroad. Speaking at a Caribbean health ministers meeting in 2025, Tufton warned that shortages of registered and specialist nurses and midwives are undermining service delivery and hampering training capacity itself.
These pressures have been exacerbated by global demand during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, health educators in Jamaica suggested that as much as 85 per cent of trained nurses eventually sought work overseas, a trend the pandemic only intensified as international healthcare systems competed for limited personnel.
Officials say that while training new nurses remains a priority, migration will continue to shape staffing realities — making targeted diaspora recruitment and international partnerships part of a broader strategy to stabilize the system.
The latest appeal signals a renewed effort by the Ministry of Health to tap into the diaspora as part of a broader strategy to stabilize and strengthen the health system. It also reflects ongoing policy discussions about how best to balance international labor mobility with Jamaica’s domestic healthcare needs.
Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal and Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries Ernesto Kesar have welcomed a successful development drilling operation by Touchstone Trinidad in the onshore Central Block, calling it an important boost for the country’s energy sector.
The discovery was made at the Carapal Ridge-3 Development Well, the first drilling activity in the Central Block in nearly 20 years. The last onshore well in the area was drilled in 2006.
According to information released on January 7, the well was drilled to a depth of approximately 8,200 feet, successfully penetrating the targeted Herrera sands, which were confirmed to be gas-bearing. Completion and testing of the sands are currently under way, with production expected to be tied into the Central Block gas processing facility in the first quarter of 2026.
In addition to the primary discovery, the well also encountered gas-charged Karamat sands. These are now being assessed as a separate prospect for possible future development.
Touchstone acquired the Central Block in May 2025 and has since undertaken a detailed evaluation of the area’s remaining resources. That assessment led to the decision to drill Carapal Ridge-3. The company is now reviewing three additional development drilling opportunities, applying insights gained from the initial well.
The energy ministers said the successful drilling effort supports the government’s priority of increasing natural gas supply and bringing new production to market, particularly at a time when additional gas is critical to sustaining Trinidad and Tobago’s energy and industrial sectors.
The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has officially approved the reinstatement of public sector workers who lost their jobs under COVID-19 vaccine mandates introduced in 2021, marking a major policy shift more than four years after the dismissals.
In a notice issued this week, authorities said affected workers—many of whom were previously classified as having abandoned their posts—are now invited to report to their respective department heads or the Chief Personnel Officer. Eligible employees are required to return to work in person by January 30, 2026.
The government also confirmed it is finalizing arrangements to place returning staff into suitable roles across the public service, depending on current operational needs.
The move follows months of discussion between the cabinet and the Public Service Union and represents the most concrete step yet toward reintegrating workers displaced by the vaccine policy.
Background to the dispute
In November 2021, hundreds of public sector employees were terminated after failing to comply with a COVID-19 vaccine mandate imposed by the then administration of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. The dismissals sparked widespread controversy and legal action from three major labor rights organizations representing the affected workers.
In March 2023, the High Court ruled that the government’s actions were unlawful and determined that the workers had never legally ceased to hold their jobs. The government appealed that ruling, and in February 2025 the Court of Appeal overturned the High Court decision in a split 2–1 judgment, upholding the government’s actions.
Despite the appeal ruling, Prime Minister Godwin Friday has said his administration is committed to resolving the issue. In December, he confirmed that returning workers would be reinstated with full benefits intact and that discussions were underway regarding back pay, which could extend up to February 2023.
Labor rights groups have since indicated they are preparing to take the matter to the UK-based Privy Council, signaling that the legal fight may not yet be over.
Still, the government’s decision to authorize reinstatements is being viewed as a significant attempt to close a divisive chapter in the country’s pandemic-era governance and restore stability within the public service.
As the calendar turns to 2026, the City of Lauderhill is preparing to place youth development, international collaboration, and elite competition firmly in the spotlight through the Caribbean Americas Soccer Association (C.A.S.A.) and City of Lauderhill Youth Classic Soccer Tournament.
In a statement welcoming the event, Lauderhill Vice Mayor Richard Campbell described the tournament as a fitting way to open what he called a “bright and prosperous New Year,” underscoring the city’s growing reputation as a hub for high-level youth sports and community engagement.
Scheduled for January 15-18, the four-day showcase will be staged at Lauderhill Sports Park, located at 7500 West Oakland Park Boulevard, and will feature top-tier players between the ages of 15 and 20, all competing with one clear objective: exposure, development, and the pursuit of college scholarship opportunities.
A platform where talent meets opportunity
According to Vice Mayor Campbell, the Youth Classic is more than a tournament; it is a launchpad.
The event is designed to give emerging athletes “a platform to compete for college scholarships while showcasing their talents to scouts from across the United States,” placing Lauderhill at the intersection of sport, education, and future opportunity.
With college recruiters and evaluators expected to attend, the tournament reinforces the city’s commitment to youth advancement through sport, while offering players a rare chance to perform on an international stage without leaving South Florida.
Elite field assembled for four days of competition
The 2026 edition of the Youth Classic will feature six elite teams, all sponsored by the City of Lauderhill, and divided into two competitive groups:
Group A: Jamaica, Tekkerz, ESP
Group B: Plantation, Rush, C.A.S.A. Allstars
Vice Mayor Campbell highlighted the strength of the field, noting that the participating teams represent a blend of international flair and domestic excellence, creating a highly competitive environment throughout the tournament.
Jamaica’s best high school talent takes the spotlight
One of the marquee attractions of this year’s event is the Jamaica national selection, composed of standout players from the All-Manning Cup and All-daCosta Cup competitions, widely regarded as the pinnacle of Jamaican high school soccer.
“This talented selection represents the finest high school soccer talent in Jamaica,” Campbell stated, emphasizing the caliber of athletes set to compete.
The Jamaican team is scheduled to arrive on Thursday, January 15, and will take the field on Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17, with both matches kicking off at 8:30 p.m., drawing considerable attention from fans and scouts alike.
Youth Soccer Clinic adds developmental focus
Beyond match play, the tournament will feature a Youth Soccer Clinic on Sunday, January 18, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., reinforcing the event’s developmental mission.
Described as a “high-energy, two-hour clinic,” the session is designed to challenge and inspire young players in a competitive yet enjoyable environment. The clinic will provide participants with an opportunity to sharpen technical skills, build confidence, and compete outside traditional match settings, serving as a prelude to the day’s championship finale.
Tournament Schedule: Four days of high-intensity action
Thursday, January 15 7:30 p.m. — Plantation vs. Rush
Friday, January 16 6:30 p.m. — ESP vs. C.A.S.A. Allstars
8:30 p.m. — Jamaica vs. ESP
Saturday, January 17 6:30 p.m. — Plantation vs. Tekkerz
8:30 p.m. — Jamaica vs. C.A.S.A. Allstars
Sunday, January 18 2:00 p.m. — Youth Soccer Clinic
3:00 p.m. — Second Place Group A vs. Third Place Group B
5:00 p.m. — Championship Match: Winner Group A vs. Winner Group B
6:45 p.m. — Medal Presentation
Soccer with a purpose: Community and global support
Vice Mayor Campbell also emphasized the tournament’s broader humanitarian mission. Throughout the four-day event, attendees are encouraged to support Lauderhill’s Sister City, Falmouth, Trelawny, and William Knibb High School through donations of non-perishable food items and school supplies as part of ongoing hurricane relief efforts.
“Beyond the pitch,” Campbell noted, community participation can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.
Families are invited to attend and enjoy the matches, with refreshments available on-site, as Lauderhill comes together to celebrate sport, solidarity, and the promise of the next generation.
The U.S. State Department has raised its travel advisory for Grenada to Level 2, urging American travelers to “exercise increased caution” because of crime, a move Grenadian officials say does not reflect the country’s overall safety record.
The advisory, updated January 5, adds crime as a risk indicator and warns that violent crime can occur anywhere on the island. It notes that U.S. citizens have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary and rape, and in some cases have been killed. The State Department also cautioned that police response times may be slower than what Americans expect in the United States.
As part of the advisory, U.S. travelers are encouraged to take common-sense precautions, including avoiding walking or driving at night, keeping a low profile, staying aware of their surroundings and not physically resisting robbery attempts. Boaters were advised to be cautious if approached by unfamiliar people or vessels, and university students were encouraged to contact campus security in emergencies. The State Department also recommended enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and purchasing travel insurance.
Grenada’s government responded forcefully two days later, seeking to reassure visitors and international partners that the country remains safe and welcoming.
In a January 7 statement, the Government of Grenada said it “continues to enjoy a strong record of public safety, social stability, and effective law enforcement,” and emphasized that Grenada consistently ranks among the safest countries in the region. Officials cited an approximate crime rate of four incidents per 100,000 people, pointing to proactive policing and community engagement.
The government also highlighted Grenada’s long-standing ties with the United States, noting that a significant number of U.S. citizens live, work, study and invest in the tri-island state, alongside hundreds of thousands of annual visitors. Those residents and visitors, the statement said, benefit from the same public services and security protections as Grenadian nationals.
According to the government, the Royal Grenada Police Force maintains strong rapid-response systems and crime-solving capacity, and national security authorities remain in close communication with international partners, including the United States.
“As a premier tourism destination, Grenada remains fully committed to providing a secure, enjoyable, and enriching experience for travelers,” the statement said, adding that the island’s tourism sector operates under robust safety protocols and that local communities are known for their hospitality.
Grenada officials concluded by reaffirming that the country “remains open, safe, and ready to welcome the world,” even as U.S. authorities urge travelers to remain vigilant.
The competition was fierce in the female Half Marathon category. Achieving the podium finish was (L-R) Dandie Williams (2nd place), Cecile Heinrich (1st place), and Tonya Bussee (3rd place)
The 25th staging of the Reggae Marathon carried its rhythm and spirit into the heart of Jamaica’s capital on December 7, 2025, delivering a spectacular debut in Kingston. For the very first time in its quarter‑century history, after 24 years in Negril, the event welcomed over 1,700 registered runners to its new, culturally enriched course in Kingston.
Runners from across the globe, including participants from the United States, Canada, France, Dubai, Japan, the U.K., and far-flung countries such as Uzbekistan, Russia, and Estonia, joined Jamaicans in a vibrant celebration of sport, culture, and community. Over the years, the Reggae Marathon has attracted runners from more than 25 countries and continues to be an important contributor to Jamaica’s sports tourism product, drawing visitors who travel specifically for the experience and often extend their stay to enjoy the island. The move to Kingston reinforces its growing appeal as a world-class international race.
“We are delighted with how Kingston embraced the Reggae Marathon,” said Ian Kelly, chairman of Reggae Marathon. This move represents a new chapter for the event while saluting its rich history and the communities it serves.
Tourism and tradition take centre stage as organisers highlight the Reggae Marathon’s impact in drawing participants from more than 25 countries each year. Pictured are (L-R) Alfred Francis, Race Director, Reggae Marathon; Dr Carey Wallace, Executive Director, Tourism Enhancement Fund; Dr Kemroy Johnson, President, Jamadammers Running Club; Kiwayne Jacobs, Public Relations Officer, Jamaica Tourist Board; and Ian Kelly, Chairman, Reggae Marathon. (Photo: contributed)
“For 24 years, Negril has been the home of the Reggae Marathon, and the support we received from the communities there has been invaluable. This year, even as we celebrate our first staging in Kingston, we remain deeply aware of the challenges that Negril and Green Island have faced following Hurricane Melissa. In gratitude for their years of hospitality and dedication, we have launched a relief initiative to provide care packages to families in these communities. It is important that while we grow and evolve the marathon, we continue to give back and honour the places and people who helped build this event into the international celebration it is today.”
This year’s Reggae Marathon featured three exciting race options: the Half Marathon, the 10K, and the 5K, giving runners of all levels the chance to participate in Jamaica’s premier international running event. The certified courses wind through the city’s cultural landmarks—from the National Gallery, Supreme Court, and the scenic Kingston waterfront—before continuing through Kingston’s vibrant streets, such as the popular Water Lane art walk, offering a unique blend of athletic challenge and local flavour.
The competition was fierce across all categories. In the Half Marathon, the top three male finishers were Garfield Gordon, Kemar Leslie, and Odaine Davidson, while the top three females were Cecile Heinrich, Dandie Williams, and Tonya Bussee. For the 10K, the male podium was claimed by Ryan Achau, Jevauhn Henry, and Jevaughn Tomlin, with Florence Nafamba, Jovi Rose, and Feliscia Compass taking the top three spots in the female category. In the 5K, the male winners were Raheem Walker, Ovell Burton, and Shakeen Ebanks, while the top female finishers were Gizelle James, Allana Lee, and Tanicia White.
The school’s competition also highlighted outstanding young talent, with Bellefield High School, St. Jago High School, and Holmwood Technical topping the boys’ team category, while Holmwood Technical and Bellefield High School led the girls’ team standings.
The Reggae Marathon is the brainchild of the Jamdammers Running Club, a group that has shaped Jamaica’s running culture over the past three decades. What began as a small group of early morning joggers grew into a pioneering club that introduced organised road running to Kingston, created weekly training programmes, and inspired countless Jamaicans to embrace a fitness lifestyle. In 2000, after attending an international marathon in San Diego that featured live music, the Jamdammers were inspired to conceptualise a unique, world-class event in Jamaica that would combine athletics, tourism, and the island’s rich cultural heritage. This vision gave birth to the Reggae Marathon, which over the past 25 years has become a major international race, drawing participants from across the globe while maintaining strong ties to local communities.
In the Male Half Marathon of the 2025 Reggae Marathon, the top three male finishers were (L-R) Kemar Leslie (2nd place), Garfield Gordon (1st place), and Odaine Davidson (3rd place)
“The turnout this year has been phenomenal and reflects the continued growth of the Reggae Marathon. As the brainchild of the Jamdammers, the race embodies our commitment to encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle, through running for Jamaicans of all ages. Over the years, we have seen how running can inspire communities, build confidence, and foster international friendships. Events like this remind us that embracing fitness is not only about sport, but also about living a balanced and empowered life,” shared Dr. Kemroy Johnson, president of the Jamdammers Run Club.
Running for purpose: Sport, education & community
In keeping with its long tradition of giving back, the 2025 Reggae Marathon reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with the Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ), which has served as the event’s charity partner for over two decades. Funds raised through the event support HFJ’s islandwide screening programmes, an essential service that helps Jamaicans “know their numbers,” prevent heart disease, and detect conditions early.
Endorsing the event, Deborah Chen, executive director at the Heart Foundation of Jamaica, emphasised the significance of the partnership and the positive impact of the Reggae Marathon. “The funds raised through the Reggae Marathon have a real impact in communities across Jamaica,” said Chen. “They allow us to provide vital islandwide screening services, health education, and medical treatment for those with heart conditions. We are especially grateful that this event also encourages participants and spectators to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Each runner and supporter contributes directly to improving lives and building a healthier Jamaica for future generations.”
Over more than two decades, the race has also helped advance youth development through educational support and community outreach. This year, the event also recognised outstanding school teams, with the top male and female school finishers across the different races receiving laptops and financial support to assist with their studies. Through these initiatives, the Reggae Marathon continues to promote not only athletic excellence but also educational opportunities, encouraging young people to pursue both fitness and learning as part of a balanced and empowering lifestyle.
With the successful debut behind us, the event once again confirmed its status as a jewel of Jamaican sport, where athleticism, culture, community, and international camaraderie meet on the roads of Kingston.
Saint Lucian filmmaker Elijah Anatole is celebrating a major milestone as his short film Omyra secures official selection at three international film festivals across Australia, the United States and India—an achievement that signals growing global recognition for Caribbean storytelling.
Omyra, a suspense-filled thriller set in Saint Lucia, was written, directed and produced by Anatole, who is also the owner and operator of Artlas Studios. The film marks another step forward for the filmmaker as he continues to place Saint Lucian cinema on the international stage.
The film’s first screening on the global festival circuit will take place at the 2026 ÂME International Film Festival in Australia, which begins on January 25. The festival is known for spotlighting both emerging and established filmmakers from around the world, with a focus on strong storytelling and artistic integrity.
Omyra will then travel to the United States, where it has been selected for the Chandler International Film Festival (CIFF) in Arizona. The film will screen as part of the Best Short Film Block C category on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 7:05 p.m. at Regal Gilbert in Gilbert, Arizona.
In February, the Saint Lucian production will reach audiences in Asia with its selection for the Sundarban International Film Festival in India. Festival organisers describe the event as a platform designed to bridge the gap between audiences and arthouse cinema, promoting films that are visually compelling while offering a strong philosophical perspective.
Reacting to the news on social media, Anatole expressed excitement over the Australian selection, stating: “We in Australia, we are thrilled to announce that Omyra has been officially selected for the ÂME International Film Festival. The ÂME International Film Festival is an international platform dedicated to showcasing independent films from around the world, celebrating strong storytelling, artistic integrity and emerging voices in global cinema.”
The three festival notifications received so far have all resulted in official selections, a notable achievement for the Saint Lucian filmmaker. Anatole has also revealed that he is currently awaiting feedback from several additional international festival submissions.
With its continued recognition across multiple continents, Omyra is building steady momentum, suggesting that the film’s themes and storytelling are resonating well beyond Saint Lucia’s shores and reinforcing the island’s growing presence in global cinema.
