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Bahamas commits to climate finance partnership with UK to protect oceans

Bahamas PM Philip Davis

The Bahamas government says it remains committed to working with authorities in the United Kingdom to mobilize billions of dollars in private investment while protecting “our seagrass and our oceans, and build a global movement that places nature at the heart of climate action.”

In a pre-recorded message to the UK Houses of Parliament on Climate Leadership, Nature Finance, and Global Partnerships, Prime Minister Phillip Davis apologized for his absence but thanked stakeholders for “convening us at this pivotal moment for climate and nature.”

He acknowledged that The Bahamas faces some of the most significant challenges both on land and at sea, citing “the preservation of our natural world in the face of climate change and economic turbulence.”

“The Bahamas is proud to stand at the forefront of this initiative. As a small island state, we face the realities of climate change every day. Rising seas, stronger storms, and the fragility of ecosystems on which our people depend are daily realities. For us, this is not a distant concern; it is the defining challenge of our generation,” Davis said.

But the prime minister stressed that his message was not “to speak only of vulnerability,” adding, “we come to speak of leadership, innovation, and partners.”

He said the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation is determined to show that countries on the frontline of climate change can also lead in solutions, demonstrating that natural capital can be properly valued, effectively financed, and safeguarded for future generations.

“One of our greatest assets lies beneath the surface of our waters: vast meadows of seagrass. These ecosystems are not only beautiful; they are among the most powerful carbon sinks in the world, capable of storing up to 35 times more carbon than tropical rainforests,” he explained.

“They shelter our marine life, sustain our fisheries, and act as a natural shield against coastal erosion. In short, they are vital to our economy, our communities, and our future. Yet until now, ecosystems such as seagrass have been undervalued in global finance.”

Davis said The Bahamas is excited to be part of the UK-backed initiative, supported by the City of London’s financial expertise, which is developing innovative finance models to support climate and nature resilience.

He pointed to “article 6.2 cooperation, blended finance vehicles, and high-integrity carbon markets” as tools that can transform how countries protect ecosystems, ensuring they are treated not only as natural treasures but also as assets of global importance.

“By demonstrating these models in The Bahamas, alongside our friends in Bolivia and other partner nations, we can prove to the world that climate and nature finance is not an abstract concept. It is real. It is investable. And it delivers resilience and prosperity for both people and nature,” Davis said.

Currently in Ethiopia for the second CARICOM-African Summit, Davis underscored The Bahamas’ commitment to working closely with the UK, Bankers for Net Zero, and international partners.

“Together, we can mobilize billions in private investment, protect our seagrass and our oceans, and build a global movement that places nature at the heart of climate action. Let us ensure that history reflects that we, in partnership across borders, had the vision and the courage to act, and that we turned finance into a force for safeguarding our planet,” he said.

A checklist for home sellers before listing their property

Getting ready to sell your home is much more than just sticking a sign in the front yard. It requires some careful preparation. The aim is to showcase the best features of your home while addressing any concerns a potential buyer might have. 

Using a checklist helps you stay on track and ensures that nothing important gets overlooked. There’s a lot you may need to do, starting with a roof inspection, checking for structural issues, and even tackling minor repairs. You may even end up missing out on a thing or two. 

Whether making minor repairs or conducting crucial safety inspections, every detail counts. This article discusses the strategies that can really help boost buyer confidence. It makes it more likely for you to sell your home quickly and at a great price.

Declutter and Depersonalize

One of the simplest but most effective steps you can take before listing your home is decluttering. Having too many items around makes your home feel cramped and distracts potential buyers from the best features of your space. 

According to Vogue, decluttering means creating a calmer space around you. Stepping into a tidy and organized room can be both refreshing and soothing. Conversely, entering a messy space often leaves you feeling drained and stressed.

Depersonalizing your space is a crucial step in this process. When potential buyers walk through, they want to envision their own lives in your home, but personal items can make that a bit tricky. It’s best to remove any collectibles that might reflect your unique tastes. This approach helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere where buyers can easily imagine their future.

Invest in Essential Repairs

Getting your home ready for the market? According to Better Homes & Gardens, before putting your home on the market, be mindful of any potential issues it might have. In today’s market, the condition of your home is just as essential as its location when it comes to selling. Homes in better shape tend to sell at or above their asking price 20% faster than similar homes that need work.

Even the minute problems can signal that maintenance might not be a priority. Contrarily, if you focus on larger tasks, you can truly reassure buyers, showing them that your home is in perfect shape. A property that feels solid and trustworthy helps build confidence from the very first moment.

Taking care of necessary repairs ahead of time can alleviate any worries before they arise. A well-maintained home is much more likely to sell quickly and at a great price. So investing the time and effort into fixing things up is absolutely worthwhile.

Improve Curb Appeal

The outside of your home really sets the tone for every potential buyer who steps inside. House Beautiful notes that your home might be renovated and stylish, but if your curb appeal is lacking, you could be missing out on its full value. A vibrant lawn, a tidy garden, fresh paint, and some cozy exterior lighting can really enhance your home’s first impression. 

Check out the top tips for prepping and maintaining your home’s exterior and yard before selling. Curb appeal is a true reflection of the care and pride you take in it. When buyers see a neat and inviting exterior, they often assume the interior is well-maintained as well. 

According to Reliable Roofing & Restoration, installing a new roof on your house is a great way to ensure your safety and security. Moreover, it can really enhance your property’s appearance and value. The small touches can create a friendly atmosphere that attracts buyers and sets a great tone for the showing.

Price Your Home Right

When it comes to selling your home, one of the most crucial steps is determining the right price. The National Association of Realtors states that some sellers set their home prices higher than ever simply because they can. It could deter authentic buyers and cause appraisals to fall short of what’s needed. Think about cash offers and contingencies that could really work in your favor.

The secret lies in researching comparable sales in your neighborhood, keeping up with current market trends, and consulting with a trusted real estate professional. This approach enables you to determine the best price that captures attention and genuinely reflects the actual value of your home.

Setting the right price from the get-go builds excitement and also leads to multiple offers. The key is to maximize both interest and returns. A home priced appropriately signals that you mean business and showcases your property as a valuable opportunity that’s hard to resist.

Get Ready for Showings

The objective of renovating your house for a showing is to make it feel cozy and welcoming so that potential clients are attracted. Start by giving every room a deep clean, paying extra attention to the kitchens and bathrooms. 

Open up the curtains or blinds to let in some natural light, making the space feel bright and airy. Little details such as fresh flowers, neatly arranged cushions, and a light, pleasant scent can really elevate the overall experience. You want buyers to walk away feeling like the home is well-loved and ready for them to move right in.

Flexibility is key in this whole process. Be open to showing requests, even if they come in on short notice. The more eyes you have on your home, the faster it can find a new owner. Before you step out, take a moment to do a quick check to ensure everything feels inviting. The goal is simple: help buyers imagine themselves in your home.

FAQs

How long does it take to sell a home?

Typically, selling a home can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. The timeline hinges on your location and the current market conditions. You’ll go through steps like marketing your property, hosting showings, negotiating offers, and ultimately closing the deal.

How to get the best price for your property?

Finding the proper pricing point and thoroughly researching your local market are crucial if you want to achieve the best price for your house. Don’t forget to tackle any repairs, set up the rooms attractively, and enhance your home’s exterior charm. Be ready for showings and respond promptly to interested buyers.

Can I sell my home without a realtor?

Yes, you can totally sell your home without a realtor. It can save you some cash on agent fees, but keep in mind that you will be responsible for everything. It includes everything from marketing and pricing to showings and all the necessary paperwork. It’s a great route to take if you know your way around local real estate laws.

When you tick off every item on your seller’s checklist, you set your home up to shine and attract the interest of potential buyers. It is your moment to really shine in a crowded market. When you invest the time to prepare thoroughly, you could end up with a quicker sale and a more appealing offer. 

The work you do now will really pay off on closing day, giving you a rewarding sense of achievement. Remember, selling a home is both an emotional and financial milestone. You must handle it with care, patience, and a clear goal to ensure the best possible results.

 

Joseph Issa launches Custos Commando Initiative in St. Ann

Joseph Issa

Businessman and philanthropist Joseph Issa, the current Custos Rotulorum for St. Ann, is advancing new community-focused initiatives through his Custos Commando project, which encourages residents to identify and lead projects aimed at improving quality of life across the parish.

The Custos, who represents the Governor-General as the first citizen of St. Ann, said the initiative allows community members to organize committees around causes important to them, then present their progress at monthly Custos meetings.

“There is one young lady who is a JP who was concerned about deportees coming into the parish, and she is working with her team to have a project to integrate the deportees so they don’t become a problem,” Issa explained. He added that national tennis player Blaise Bicknell is also contributing by working to introduce tennis courts and backgammon clubs in high schools across the island.

The Custos Commando Initiative also includes the St. Ann Justices of the Peace Mentorship Initiative, designed to provide guidance and support for youth development. Issa has urged all JPs in the parish to consider registering as mentors and to attend a training session scheduled for September 11. At least 150 JPs are expected to be recruited for the pilot program.

Issa, who founded the Cool Group of Companies — now spanning over 50 businesses — has long been tied to St. Ann both in business and philanthropy. He said his role as Custos has allowed him to channel that connection into projects that strengthen civic pride, promote public order, and reinforce the rule of law.

Dwayne Bravo set to inspire as Trinidad and Tobago expands ambassador program

Dwayne Bravo

Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo is poised to take on a new role off the field, as Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, Phillip Watts, confirmed plans to appoint him as a national sports ambassador.

The announcement came during the government’s post-cabinet briefing on September 4, where Watts outlined the administration’s broader vision to celebrate and harness the influence of its sporting icons.

Expanding the roster of Ambassadors

Watts emphasized that Bravo’s appointment is part of a wider initiative to recognize outstanding athletes who continue to inspire at home and abroad.

“Currently we are adding. We have a lot of other athletes we’re looking at to make them sport ambassadors also,” Watts explained, signaling that more high-profile names will soon join the ranks.

Lara and Badree already honored

Bravo will be in distinguished company. Legendary batsman Brian Lara and former world number one T20 spinner Samuel Badree are already serving as official sports ambassadors, lending their voices and influence to the nation’s sporting and youth development agenda.

For the Ministry, these appointments represent more than ceremonial recognition. By formally engaging celebrated figures such as Lara, Badree, and now Bravo, the government aims to channel their experience, stature, and international reach into programs designed to uplift young athletes and strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s sporting profile on the world stage.

Watts hinted that the list will continue to grow: “We will be coming with some others.”

Hope’s heroics seal Warriors’ last-gasp win over Royals

Guyana Amazon Warriors finalize squad for inaugural Global Super League

The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) served up high drama in Bridgetown on Thursday night, as the Guyana Amazon Warriors edged past the Barbados Royals by four wickets with just two balls to spare in Game 21.

The victory breathes life into the Warriors’ playoff ambitions, while the Royals remain winless, their season teetering on the brink of collapse.

Royals’ innings rescued by Powell’s power

The Royals, desperate for their first points of the campaign, struggled from the outset after being sent in to bat. By the 12th over, they had slumped to 69 for 5, undone by a disciplined Warriors attack that shared the wickets evenly. Just as the innings seemed to be unraveling, captain Rovman Powell launched a counteroffensive of pure muscle.

Powell smashed a blistering, unbeaten 50 from 28 deliveries, clearing the ropes six times without striking a single four. His knock added much-needed substance to the Royals’ innings, lifting them to 165 for 6 — a total that felt competitive, though never entirely secure.

Pretorius shifts momentum in the chase

The Warriors’ reply gathered momentum through a blistering contribution from Dwaine Pretorius, who hammered 53 off 34 balls, decorated with four sixes and two fours. His aggressive strokeplay carved into the target and swung the pressure back onto the Royals’ bowlers.

Yet, with rain interruptions halting play and wickets tumbling at intervals, the contest tightened. Eathan Bosch (3 for 35) and Ramon Simmonds (2 for 27) struck at vital moments to keep the Royals in contention, ensuring the run chase would go down to the wire.

Hope stands tall under pressure

In the decisive phase, Shai Hope displayed calm authority. Unmoved by the pressure and late-evening tension, the West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman crafted a masterful unbeaten 62 from just 29 deliveries. His timing was exquisite, his placement precise, and his temperament unshakable as he steered the Warriors closer to the finish line.

Hope found a reliable partner in Quentin Samson, whose 33 off 20 balls provided the perfect blend of composure and aggression. The climax arrived when Samson launched Chris Green over the on-side boundary for six, sealing victory with only two balls left to spare.

Royals left searching, Warriors march on

For the Royals, Powell’s solo heroics were not enough to mask their ongoing struggles. Five matches into their campaign, they remain rooted to the bottom of the table, still searching for a breakthrough win in front of a frustrated home crowd.

The Warriors, meanwhile, climbed to fourth in the standings, with three games in hand and momentum building at the perfect moment. With the playoff race tightening, their dramatic triumph keeps pressure firmly on the Falcons and Patriots on either side of them in the table.

 

Goalkeepers take center stage as Trinidad and Tobago, Curaçao battle to stalemate

concacaf football

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup produced a tense but goalless encounter on Friday night as Trinidad and Tobago and Curaçao fought to a 0-0 draw in Group B action at Hasely Crawford Stadium.

Both sides created opportunities, but the contest was ultimately defined by commanding goalkeeping and desperate defensive stands.

Early threats but no breakthrough

The hosts nearly seized the initiative in the 17th minute when Tyrese Spicer met a cross with a firm header, only to be denied by a sharp reflex stop from Curaçao’s veteran goalkeeper Eloy Room. Ten minutes later, Curaçao answered through Jeremy Antonisse, who unleashed a speculative strike from distance, though it sailed harmlessly wide.

The visitors came even closer in the 38th minute when Roshon van Eijma powered a header toward the top corner, but Trinidad and Tobago’s Denzil Smith produced a brilliant diving save to keep the Soca Warriors level.

Room stands tall in the second half

The home side began the second period with renewed urgency, pushing numbers forward and testing Curaçao’s defense. Room was called into action repeatedly, first getting down low to push away a long-range blast from Dante Sealy in the 55th minute. Moments later, Juninho Bacuna came to his goalkeeper’s rescue, heading Andre Rampersad’s effort off the line.

As Trinidad and Tobago pressed harder, Room delivered again, twice denying Spicer and talismanic striker Levi García in quick succession late in the match. His six-save display was a masterclass in concentration and composure under pressure.

Curaçao nearly snatch it late

While the Soca Warriors dictated much of the second half, Curaçao still threatened on the counter. In the 89th minute, Tyrese Noslin almost stole the points with a thunderous right-footed drive that skimmed wide of the far post. It was the visitors’ clearest look at goal, and a reminder of their dangerous attacking edge.

At the final whistle, the scoreboard remained unchanged, but the duel between the two goalkeepers was the night’s defining story. Smith, with two key saves, provided Trinidad and Tobago with stability at the back, while Room’s commanding six-save performance earned Curaçao a valuable away point.

Both sides will return to action on Tuesday, with Trinidad and Tobago traveling to Kingston, Jamaica, while Curaçao welcomes Bermuda in what could prove a decisive fixture in their qualifying campaign.

Bermuda overwhelmed as Jamaica’s pace and precision seal 4-goal win

Reggae Boyz Jamaica

Jamaica opened their Concacaf World Cup final-round qualifying campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Bermuda at the Flora Duffy National Sports Center on Friday night.

Early authority from captain Damion Lowe, a dazzling solo strike by Renaldo Cephas, a surging finish from Kasey Palmer, and a late header from substitute Shamar Nicholson sealed the three points for the Reggae Boyz.

Head coach Steve McClaren praised the professionalism of his squad, describing it as “a very tricky game” but lauding his team’s ability to manage the moments. “We got the first goal, and that settled us down,” he reflected. “Credit to Bermuda, they kept playing football and creating opportunities, but we defended well and showed the individual quality needed to win.”

Fast start silences the crowd

The home side had packed the stands in anticipation, horns blaring and hopes high, but Bermuda’s optimism was punctured within six minutes. From a corner that the hosts failed to clear, Lowe reacted quickest, poking through a crowded penalty area to give Jamaica sixth-minute lead.

The Reggae Boyz nearly doubled the advantage minutes later when debutant Bailey Cadamarteri teed up Palmer, only for Bermuda goalkeeper Dale Eve to intervene. Bermuda threatened in the 16th minute as captain Nahki Wells stung the palms of Jahmali Waite, but defender Greg Leigh cleared the rebound under pressure.

Cephas then delivered the game’s highlight in the 26th minute. Starting inside his own half, the left winger collected a headed pass from Greg Leigh and glided past two defenders with sheer pace and trickery, cutting the ball back  before driving a low finish beyond Eve.

The goal left Bermuda rattled and Cadamarteri twice came agonizingly close to adding a third—rounding the goalkeeper once and steering the ball wide of an unguarded net, and striking the post shortly before halftime.

Bermuda fight back, but Jamaica turn the screw

Bermuda’s coach Michael Findlay attempted to swing momentum with a halftime substitution, introducing Keziah Martin for Willie Clemons. The change sparked Bermuda’s best spell, with Kane Crichlow firing three times in quick succession, only to be denied by Jamaican goalkeeper Jahmali Waite and an immense block from center-half Richard King.

Findlay later admitted the early concession proved costly: “The first goal was a sloppy one to give away, and it put us on the back foot. Even at 2-0, we had a good spell, but against a team of Jamaica’s quality, you can’t afford those mistakes.”

His captain Wells echoed the frustration: “We tried our best to avoid conceding early from a set piece, but we failed. It gave Jamaica the lift they needed and knocked us back. Losing the first game at home is tough—it’s an uphill task now.”

Any Bermudian hope of clawing back evaporated in the 58th minute when Palmer stormed through midfield on a pass from Jon Russell and buried a precise strike into the bottom corner.

Nicholson, criminally snubbed from the Concacaf Gold Cup squad earlier this summer, was introduced with 20 minutes to go for the wasteful Cadamarteri, and he completed the rout in the 90th minute with a delicate glancing header from a Ronaldo Webster corner.

McClaren: “Professional job done”

While pleased with the margin of victory, McClaren emphasized the discipline shown by his young squad:

“We talked about clean sheets, and we got that. It was a professional performance—come here, get the three points, go home. We created about 19 chances, seven on target, so we could have scored more. But I was impressed with the leadership from the experienced players and the promise shown by the younger ones. The future is bright for Jamaican football.”

Teams: Jamaica – Jahmali Waite, Damion Lowe (Mason Holgate 61’), Richard King, Dexter Lembikisa, Greg Leigh, Isaac Hayden, Kasey Palmer (Karoy Anderson 61’), Jon Russell, Renaldo Cephas (Kaheim Dixon 72’), Tyreece Campbell (Ronaldo Webster 87’), Bailey Cadamarteri (Shamar Nicholson 71’).

Booked: Hayden (45’), Nicholson (90+1)

Subs not used: Kemar Foster, Tafari Chambers, Jamoi Topey, Jahshaun Anglin, Kevon Lambert, Warner Brown, Michail Antonio

Bermuda: Dale Eve, Deniche Hill (Lejuan Simmons 72’), Julian Carpenter (Dante Leverock 81’), Harry Twite, Reece Jones, Willie Clemons (Keziah Martin 46’), Djair Parfitt-Williams, Ne-Jai Tucker (Aunde Todd 81’), Kane Crichlow, Reggie Lambe (Justin Donawa 66’), Nahki Wells.

Booked: None

Subs not used: CJ Fubler, Detre Bell, J’Nai Butterfield-Steede, Kieron Richardson, Razhir Jones, Tokia Russell, Jutorre Burgess

Referee: Keylor Herrera (Costa Rica)

Group B Standings

Teams MP W D L GD Pts
Jamaica 1 1 0 0 +4 3
Curacao 1 0 1 0 0 1
Trinidad & Tobago 1 0 1 0 0 1
Bermuda 1 0 0 1 -4 0

JLP wins additional seat as Donovan Williams takes Kingston Central

Donovan Williams

Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) candidate Donovan Williams has been officially declared the winner of the Kingston Central constituency following the final count of ballots from the September 3 General Election.

The official results, confirmed Friday evening after two days of counting 80 ballot boxes, showed Williams securing 4,832 votes to 4,753 for his People’s National Party (PNP) challenger, Steve McGregor. The tally gave Williams a margin of 79 votes.

McGregor was initially declared the winner on election night, when the preliminary count had him leading Williams by 12 votes. However, the JLP had signaled on Thursday that it expected the official count to overturn the early result.

“I am overjoyed, I am feeling satisfied and accomplished that the correct results have been certified now. I always knew I was the winner. It was just a matter of time,” Williams told the Jamaica Observer after the confirmation.

The win carries added personal significance for Williams, who said the victory fulfilled a dream of his late father. He was joined on Friday by family members, including his brother, Delroy Williams, who was also elected to Parliament as MP for Clarendon Central.

With the latest outcome, the JLP now controls 35 of the 63 seats in the House of Representatives, while the PNP holds 28. Another constituency, South East St Mary, where the JLP’s Christopher Brown defeated the PNP’s Dr. Norman Dunn by just 11 votes, is also under close scrutiny.

PNP representatives have not yet issued a public statement on the Kingston Central result.

Bahamian nationals among 38 arrested in Florida for drug smuggling

A coordinated law enforcement operation off the coast of Florida intercepted a major human and drug smuggling network this week, resulting in the arrest of 38 individuals, including eight Bahamian nationals, and the seizure of 168 kilograms of cocaine, authorities confirmed Friday.

The investigation began on August 29, when authorities received intelligence that a group of men had rented an Airbnb in Fort Pierce, Florida, to orchestrate smuggling operations from the Bahamas into the United States. Law enforcement agencies learned that the group had organized multiple vessels and counter-surveillance teams to monitor the Fort Pierce Inlet.

At approximately 5:30 a.m. on August 30, authorities observed two suspect vessels departing the Inlet. Later in the day, officials identified a third boat involved, with all three returning from the Bahamas. The operation involved coordination between local, state, and federal agencies, including the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Two of the vessels—a 42-foot Contender and a 36-foot Grady White—complied with law enforcement and were stopped without incident. However, the third boat, an Intermarine measuring approximately 33–35 feet, attempted to flee. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations agents successfully disabled the vessel before it could escape.

Authorities took into custody 30 Chinese nationals, including two juveniles, who were believed to be undocumented, along with eight Bahamian men. Of the Bahamians, five were aboard the smuggling vessels, while three were conducting counter-surveillance operations on land to monitor authorities’ movements. All detainees were transferred to federal custody, and the Chinese nationals are expected to be repatriated to their country of origin.

In addition to the arrests, authorities recovered 168 kilograms of cocaine from the vessels, marking a significant seizure in the region.

“We won’t tolerate criminals using our shores as their pathway,” said Sheriff Richard Del Toro. “Our county will not be a gateway for criminal enterprises. I’m proud of the teamwork and tenacity shown by all the local, state, and federal agencies involved.

“This operation highlights the critical importance of our partnership with federal authorities. Having our detectives embedded in federal agencies like the DEA and others is a true force multiplier, giving us direct access to intelligence, resources, and coordinated efforts that are critical to securing our borders and protecting the people and quality of life in St. Lucie County.”

Authorities continue to investigate whether additional networks are linked to the operation, including possible contacts in the Caribbean region.

US ends Venezuelan TPS as amid expanded military pressure in Caribbean

TPS

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on Wednesday announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans, first designated in 2021, with protections set to expire on September 10, 2025.

The decision comes amid a broader escalation of US policy toward Venezuela, including a military build-up in the Caribbean and Tuesday’s strike on an alleged drug boat that Washington says killed 11 members of the Tren de Aragua cartel.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the TPS termination will take effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. DHS said the review process—conducted with the Department of State and US Citizenship and Immigration Services—determined that conditions in Venezuela no longer meet statutory requirements.

“Given Venezuela’s substantial role in driving irregular migration and the clear magnet effect created by Temporary Protected Status, maintaining or expanding TPS for Venezuelan nationals directly undermines the Trump administration’s efforts to secure our southern border and manage migration effectively,” a DHS spokesperson said.

The department added that Venezuelan nationals departing the United States are “encouraged” to use the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app to self-report their exit, with incentives including a complimentary flight, a US$1,000 “exit bonus,” and possible future opportunities for legal immigration.

The announcement coincided with President Donald Trump’s Oval Office remarks confirming that US forces struck a vessel in the Caribbean Sea. Trump claimed the boat was transporting “massive amounts of drugs” linked to the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang.

“Obviously, they won’t be doing it again,” Trump said. “And I think a lot of other people won’t be doing it again.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the operation, insisting: “We knew exactly who was in that boat … Anyone else trafficking in those waters who we know is a deadly terrorist will face the same fate.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in Mexico City, added: “We’re not going to sit back anymore and watch these people sail up and down the Caribbean like a cruise ship. It’s not going to happen.”

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the military build-up as “extravagant, unjustified, immoral and absolutely criminal,” warning that US operations threatened stability just off his country’s coastline.

But Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar welcomed the strike, arguing it targeted networks responsible for flooding her country with drugs and guns.

“I have no sympathy for traffickers; the US military should kill them all violently,” she said in a statement Tuesday.

The TPS termination and regional military escalation are expected to further strain US–Venezuela relations, while raising concerns across the Caribbean about security and sovereignty.

US, Panama push UN to authorise new 5,550-member force for Haiti

Haitian soldiers Haiti

The United States and Panama are urging the United Nations Security Council to authorise a 5,550-member Gang Suppression Force with the power to detain gang members in Haiti, as violence continues to spiral out of control.

According to a draft resolution obtained by the Associated Press on Wednesday, the plan would transform the Kenya-led multinational force currently deployed in Haiti into a much larger mission for an initial 12-month period. The new force would include 5,500 uniformed personnel and 50 civilians, funded through voluntary contributions, though it remains unclear which countries would provide troops or police.

Kenyan officers first deployed to Haiti in June 2024, with the mission originally envisioned as a 2,500-strong force. But plagued by limited funding, its strength has fallen below 1,000. Meanwhile, gangs have tightened their grip since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, now controlling 90 per cent of the capital Port-au-Prince and extending their reach into rural areas through looting, kidnapping, sexual violence, and other crimes. Haiti has not had a president since Moïse’s killing.

The draft resolution expresses appreciation to Kenya for leading the mission but backs UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ February finding that the current deployment is unable to match the gangs’ rapid expansion. Acting US Ambassador Dorothy Shea had already signalled on August 28 that Washington would push for a new authorisation.

If approved, the Gang Suppression Force would be empowered to arrest and detain Haitians, secure critical infrastructure such as ports, airports, schools and hospitals, and work alongside Haitian police and armed forces. It would also support efforts to stem the flow of illegal arms into the country.

The Security Council is expected to vote on the US–Panama draft resolution later this month, ahead of the October 2 expiry of the Kenya-led mission’s mandate. The resolution would further allow participants to conduct “independent, intelligence-led targeted counter-gang operations to neutralise, isolate and deter gangs that continue to threaten the civilian population, abuse human rights and undermine Haitian institutions.”

Trinidad PM under fire for backing US strike on Venezuelan vessel

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

Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is facing mounting criticism at home and abroad after her strong endorsement of Tuesday’s US military strike on an alleged Venezuelan drug vessel that killed 11 suspected members of the Tren de Aragua cartel.

Critics are warning that her hardline position risks undermining Trinidad and Tobago’s tradition of neutrality in regional affairs.

Persad-Bissessar doubled down on her stance yesterday, insisting that her call for the US to “kill them all violently” was rooted in her duty to protect law-abiding citizens from the impact of transnational cartels. “For more than 25 years, narco-traffickers have unleashed hell upon Trinidad and Tobago, fuelling our murder rate, flooding our streets with guns and drugs, and brutalising our people through torture, intimidation, extortion, kidnapping and violence,” she said. “My duty is to protect the law-abiding citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, not the criminals and cartels who prey upon them.”

Her remarks came after US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the strike, sharing video footage of the incident, though experts noted that no evidence has yet been provided to support claims that the vessel was a drug boat. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles sharply condemned the Prime Minister’s statements, calling them “reckless, disgraceful, and inconsistent with the oath she has taken to uphold the Constitution and the law.” Beckles warned that Persad-Bissessar’s words could endanger fisherfolk, offshore workers and others in the maritime space.

International relations experts have also weighed in. Professor Emeritus Anthony Bryan warned that Persad-Bissessar’s language “overstepped diplomatic boundaries,” adding: “We’ve always been a neutral country … have we abandoned that?” Professor Andy Knight went further, calling the US action an “intentional killing in international waters without due process” and warning that Persad-Bissessar’s endorsement placed the region at risk. “To claim it is OK because generally drug cartels kill innocent people is to bring the USA down to the same level of criminality that we accuse drug cartel criminals of doing,” he said.

The US Coast Guard’s rules of engagement emphasise proportionality, de-escalation and deadly force as a last resort, raising further questions about whether the strike aligned with official use-of-force policy.

The controversy has spilled beyond Trinidad and Tobago. According to Barbados Today, Barbadian Foreign Minister Kerrie Symmonds confirmed that Caricom foreign ministers have written to Secretary of State Rubio urging that future US operations in Caribbean waters not take place without prior notice. Colombian President Gustavo Petro also questioned the strike, noting that maritime interdictions can be conducted without attacking a vessel’s occupants.

Persad-Bissessar, however, has shown no signs of retreating. “Everyone else may choose their side; I have already chosen mine,” she said. “I stand with law-abiding citizens. And I stand with those who are willing to fight against these criminal cartels to help us have a safer country.”

Trinidadian pleads guilty to gun smuggling in Florida after extradition from Jamaica

sentenced to over 18 years in US prison

A Trinidad and Tobago national extradited from Jamaica has pleaded guilty to conspiring to smuggle firearms into his home country, U.S. prosecutors announced Friday.

Shem Wayne Alexander, 35, of Port of Spain, faces up to five years in federal prison after admitting to participating in a scheme to unlawfully export weapons, ammunition, and gun parts from Florida to Trinidad and Tobago between 2019 and 2022. He was arrested in Jamaica on November 15, 2024, under a U.S. provisional arrest request, and extradited to the United States the following month.

According to court documents, Alexander and his co-conspirators disguised the shipments as household goods. In one case, authorities in Trinidad and Tobago discovered a cache of weapons hidden in punching bags that had been sent from the U.S. to Piarco International Airport in April 2021. The shipment contained 11 pistols, two revolvers, a shotgun, AR-15 parts, more than 60 magazines, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, including HSI’s Legal Attaché for the Caribbean, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance provided by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (Transnational Organized Crime Unit and Special Investigations Unit), United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and United States Customs and Border Protection. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the Jamaica Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force provided critical support in the extradition of Alexander. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee and Adam W. McCall.

The case is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative, which targets transnational criminal networks.

Sentencing for Alexander has not yet been scheduled.

CARICOM observers say Jamaica’s general election was conducted peacefully

CARICOM Caribbean general elections

The Caribbean Community’s Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has declared that Jamaica’s September 3 general election was conducted peacefully, transparently, and reflected the will of the people.

The eleven-member Mission, which arrived in Jamaica between August 27 and 31 at the invitation of the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ), deployed six teams across 36 constituencies in 12 parishes. Observers visited 260 polling stations, monitoring every stage of the process — from the opening of polls to the counting of ballots.

In its preliminary statement, the Mission reported that polling stations were generally opened on time, fully staffed, and equipped with the necessary materials. Representatives of the two main political parties — the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP) — were present at all observed locations. Adequate security was also noted, with officers described as professional and contributing to the calm atmosphere on election day.

The Electronic Voter Identification System (EVIS) functioned effectively in most stations, though some technical issues arose. However, contingency measures by the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) ensured operations continued smoothly.

Chief of Mission Fern Narcis also visited the ECJ’s Election Centre, which she described as a central hub that facilitated real-time coordination between the EOJ, political parties, security forces, and civil society. The Mission said issues raised were addressed promptly, reinforcing transparency and confidence in the process.

“The voters were able to cast their ballots without intimidation or harassment, and the results of the General Elections of 3 September 2025 reflected the will of the people of Jamaica and reinforced their commitment to the democratic process,” the Mission stated.

The CEOM congratulated the ECJ, poll workers, political parties, security forces, and Jamaican citizens for conducting the elections with maturity, discipline, and peace. A full report, including recommendations to further strengthen Jamaica’s electoral process, will be submitted to CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett.

New York Attorney General joins effort to protect Haitian immigrants’ legal status

Attorney General fights to protect DACA for Caribbean immigrants
Letitia James.

New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined a coalition of 18 attorneys general in defending the legal status of more than 250,000 Haitian immigrants in the United States, filing an amicus brief to block federal efforts to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians.

The brief, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, supports a lawsuit brought by Haitian immigrants challenging the administration’s decision to revoke TPS, a move advocates say would endanger lives and tear families apart. The attorneys general are urging the court to grant the plaintiffs’ request to postpone the termination.

“Haitian immigrants are a valuable part of our communities and local economies, helping make New York and this nation what they are today,” James said in a statement. “This administration’s attempt to revoke their legal status would put hundreds of thousands of people in danger and threaten to tear apart families. I will continue to fight to protect TPS so Haitians who came to our country to build a better life can continue to pursue the American dream.”

TPS was first granted to Haitians following the devastating 2010 earthquake, and has been extended several times due to ongoing instability. The Department of Homeland Security most recently extended protections in 2024. Despite widespread violence and political unrest in Haiti, the administration has moved to terminate the program, affecting at least 56,000 Haitians living in New York.

Advocates warn the change would have sweeping consequences. Many Haitian TPS holders are parents of U.S. citizen children—an estimated 200,000 nationwide—forcing families to choose between separation, uprooting children to an unstable Haiti, or living in the U.S. without authorization.

The attorneys general argue that ending TPS would harm local economies and public health. Haitians contribute an estimated $4.4 billion annually to the U.S. economy, with many filling critical roles in healthcare, education, and construction. Terminating their work permits would not only reduce economic activity but also cut off access to health insurance for many families, while fears of deportation could deter immigrants from reporting crimes or cooperating with law enforcement.

The coalition contends that the administration’s move to end TPS is arbitrary, discriminatory, and unconstitutional. In addition to New York, the attorneys general from California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia joined in the filing.

Caribbean National Weekly September 4, 2025

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Bahamas says Haitians will not be allowed entry for US visa processing

visas united states

While the U.S. Department of State has announced that Haitian immigrant visa applications will be processed at its embassy in Nassau, the Bahamian government has made it clear that Haitian nationals will not be granted entry for that purpose.

The policy shift, announced on August 28 and scheduled to take effect on November 1, requires immigrant visa applicants to interview in the consular district designated for their place of residence or in their home country, with limited exceptions. Nassau has been designated as the processing post for Haitians, following the suspension of routine visa services in Port-au-Prince.

But in a statement yesterday, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) said the U.S. government’s own restrictions on Haitian nationals make the arrangement unworkable.

“In June of this year, the United States issued a policy fully restricting and limiting the entry of Haitian nationals to the United States,” the OPM said. “In light of that policy, the announcement that immigrant visa applications by Haitians to the United States can only be processed at the U.S. Embassy in Nassau will result in no additional entries to The Bahamas for the purpose of U.S. visa applications. Because U.S. policy fully restricts entry to their country by Haitian nationals, we will not grant entry to The Bahamas for the purpose of applying for a U.S. visa.”

The U.S. travel ban, signed by President Donald Trump in June, cited an “influx” of illegal migrants from Haiti and a high visa overstay rate. It argued that Haiti lacked a functioning central authority capable of ensuring that its nationals did not undermine U.S. national security.

The new U.S. rules come as Haiti remains gripped by widespread gang violence and political instability. Since the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry last year, a transitional presidential council backed by CARICOM has struggled to advance toward elections. Meanwhile, Kenyan police continue to lead a multinational security mission aimed at restoring order, with little progress so far.

The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince remains on “ordered departure status” with visa services suspended. Its website notes that while Haitians may still apply for visas, they may be found ineligible for issuance or admission under the Trump administration’s proclamation.

Caribbean Airlines suspends Venezuela service amid regional tensions

Caribbean Airlines Denies Reports of Passenger Searches in the US

Caribbean Airlines has announced the immediate suspension of all flights to Venezuela for the remainder of September, citing no reason for the move.

The suspension primarily affects the Port of Spain–Caracas route, with flights BW 300 and BW 301 on September 6, 13, 20, and 27 now canceled. The airline said affected customers are being contacted and may rebook without fees, provided tickets remain in the same cabin class. Refunds and transfers to alternative carriers are also being offered.

The decision comes as regional tension escalates in the wake of a recent U.S. military strike on a Venezuelan vessel that Washington claimed was ferrying narcotics bound for the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the airstrike, which reportedly left 11 Venezuelans dead.

Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has thrown her support behind Washington’s campaign, telling CNN, “The pain and suffering the cartels have inflicted on our nation is immense. I have no sympathy for traffickers; the U.S. military should kill them all violently.”

Venezuela has long been identified as a major transshipment hub for narcotics moving through the Caribbean into the U.S. The Trump administration has increased its pressure on President Nicolás Maduro in recent weeks, including placing a US$50 million bounty on his arrest.

Caribbean Airlines has not commented on whether the suspension is linked to these developments.

Injury-hit Reggae Boyz brace for spirited Bermuda test in Concacaf World Cup Qualifier

Reggae Boyz

Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz begin their final round campaign in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers Friday with a clash against Bermuda at the Bermuda National Stadium in Hamilton, kicking off at 5:00 p.m. (Jamaica time).

Head coach Steve McClaren, though hit with a series of injuries to key players, has made it clear that his team is expected to “get the job done.” Jamaica, ranked well above their hosts, will be leaning on depth and spirit to secure three points in their opening Group B encounter.

“We know this is not going to be an easy game,” McClaren cautioned during Thursday’s pregame presser. “We’ve experienced these games where we’re expected to win, and we have to be professional, do our jobs, and make sure we match their spirit. That’s the only way we’ll get the win.”

A squad stretched thin

The Reggae Boyz will be without several stalwarts, including captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake, attacking star Leon Bailey, midfielder Bobby Reid, and defenders Di’Shon Bernard and Joel Latibeaudiere.

In addition, despite being named in the original squad, Demarai Gray, Ethan Pinnock, Dexter Lembikisa, and Amari’i Bell were all forced to withdraw. This left McClaren scrambling for reinforcements, calling in local Premier League talents Jamoi Topey and Kemar Foster from Mount Pleasant, along with Renaldo Webster of KF Shkëndija.

“It’s nearly a back four we’re missing,” McClaren admitted. “In midfield, we’ve also lost Reid, Gray, and Bailey. These are big players. But we’ve brought in young, hungry replacements. This will be a fantastic opportunity for them. At the end of the day, experience doesn’t matter—getting the result does.”

Bermuda’s growing ambition

While Jamaica carry the pedigree and higher ranking, Bermuda enter the contest with confidence and momentum. Ranked 162nd in the FIFA world standings, they recently climbed six places thanks to a convincing 5-0 win over Cayman Islands and a gritty 2-1 victory against Cuba in the previous round.

McClaren has been quick to acknowledge the hosts’ determination and organization. “Bermuda have done unbelievable to reach this stage. They have great spirit and deserve respect. I’ve told my players this is not going to be a routine game,” he emphasized.

Indeed, Bermuda have shown their fight against quality opposition. They led Honduras 2-0 at half-time before eventually losing 3-5, and they have been consistently competitive in recent outings.

History strongly favors Jamaica

The head-to-head record offers Jamaica reason for optimism. The two nations have faced off seven times across competitions, with the Reggae Boyz holding an unbeaten record: four wins and three draws.

Their most recent encounter came five years ago when Jamaica secured a 2-0 victory in Montego Bay thanks to goals from Jourdain Fletcher and Kemar Beckford. Going further back, in the 1994 World Cup Qualifiers, Jamaica defeated Bermuda at home before drawing the return leg away.

Key statistics underline Jamaica’s edge: Jamaica are on a five-game winning streak in World Cup qualifiers, with three clean sheets in that run.

Five of the seven meetings between the teams have produced less than three goals, suggesting tight contests.

Bermuda have lost just once in their last five qualifiers, often finding ways to stay competitive.

The stakes: Road to 2026

With only the group winners guaranteed a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Jamaica cannot afford early missteps. The two best runners-up from the three groups will still have a lifeline through intercontinental playoffs, but McClaren insists his team must treat every game as must-win.

“We’ve been preparing well. The players have been fantastic in training—young, enthusiastic, and eager to learn,” the coach said. “We just need to deliver on the pitch. Respect Bermuda, match their spirit, and then let our quality shine.”

Likely outcome

On paper, Jamaica remain clear favorites, even without their first-choice stars. Their superior depth, international experience, and historical dominance should carry them through. Yet, Bermuda’s resilience and home crowd could test the Boyz’ composure. If Jamaica impose themselves early, they should extend their unbeaten record—but any lapse in discipline could open the door to a shock result.

Jamaica will return home to face Trinidad and Tobago next Tuesday inside Kingston’s National Stadium at 7:00 p.m. (Jamaica time). Also on Friday, Trinidad and Tobago welcome Curacao to the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain for a 7:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m. Trinidad and Tobago time) encounter.

 

Sri Lanka spinners crush West Indies U19s in eight-wicket rout

West Indies

Sri Lanka’s Under-19 side showcased the artistry of spin on Thursday, dismantling West Indies Under-19s in the third Youth One-Day International at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Left-arm duo Vigneshwaran Akash and Chamika Heenatigala combined for a devastating eight-wicket haul that engineered the Caribbean side’s dramatic collapse and powered Sri Lanka to a commanding eight-wicket triumph.

The visitors now lead the best-of-seven series 2-1.

From recovery to ruin

After being rocked early at 10 for two, the West Indies appeared to regain footing through a gritty 63-run stand between captain Joshua Dorne (29) and Earsinho Fontaine (51 off 66 balls). Fontaine’s fluent half-century lifted spirits, but his dismissal marked the beginning of a freefall.

Heenatigala first bowled Dorne, then removed Fontaine just after he reached his milestone. From a position of relative comfort at 73 for two, the home side crumbled spectacularly, losing their last eight wickets for only 65 runs to be bowled out for 138 in 39.2 overs.

Only Fontaine, Dorne, and Tyriek Bryan (24) managed double figures.

Sri Lanka’s spinners shine

Akash finished with 4 for 19, his control and sharp turn leaving batters groping, while Heenatigala claimed 4 for 33, slicing through the middle order with precision. Together, they accounted for the backbone of the West Indies batting, ensuring the contest was effectively over by the halfway stage.

Chasing a modest target, Sri Lanka lost openers Pulisha Thilakaratne (21) and Senuja Wekunagoda (7) to pacer R’Jai Gittens (2-30), but there was no further drama.

Viran Chamuditha anchored the pursuit with a stylish unbeaten 64 off 70 balls, laced with 10 boundaries. He found an able partner in Kavija Gamaje (28 not out), and together they shared an unbroken 90-run stand for the third wicket, sealing victory in just 22 overs.

Series advantage

The emphatic performance underscored Sri Lanka’s growing dominance in the series, while leaving the West Indies with plenty of questions about their ability to withstand sustained spin pressure. With four matches left, the young Caribbean side must find both resilience and tactical answers if they hope to claw their way back.

Jamaican designer Rachel Scott named creative director at Proenza Schouler

Rachel Scott

Jamaican-born designer Rachel Scott has been appointed creative director at Proenza Schouler, according to a Vogue Magazine report published Tuesday.

Scott, 41, succeeds founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, who left the American luxury brand earlier this year to take the reins at French fashion house Loewe.

“It is with great excitement that I join Proenza Schouler, a brand at the heart of American fashion, and one I have long admired,” Scott said in a statement. “I hold deep respect for the beauty and world Jack and Lazaro so brilliantly crafted, and I look forward to bringing my perspective in dialogue with their legacy.”

Scott launched her own label, Diotima, in 2021, after nearly two decades of experience at fashion houses in Milan and New York. A graduate of Istituto Marangoni, she began her career at Costume National and most recently served as vice-president of design at Rachel Comey before striking out on her own.

Her Brooklyn-based brand has become known for crochet dresses crafted in Jamaica and crystal mesh separates that Vogue describes as “demi-couture.” The label has earned Scott major industry recognition, including back-to-back CFDA Fashion Awards — Emerging Designer of the Year in 2023 and Womenswear Designer of the Year in 2024 — without ever staging a runway show.

That changes this season. Diotima will make its runway debut on September 15, while Proenza Schouler will present its spring 2026 collection, developed under Scott, in a presentation next week.

Balancing two brands is a challenge Scott welcomes. “I actually find [managing both brands] not that challenging. It’s actually quite fun: I can be really ridiculous over at Diotima, I can be really more radical over there if I want to be. Not that I’m not going to have interesting ideas here. But there is a formality here that doesn’t exist over at Diotima. I like this kind of push and flow,” she told Vogue.

Her rapid rise has been matched by accolades across the industry. Scott was a runner-up for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2023, a finalist for the 2023 LVMH Prize and the 2025 Woolmark Prize, and the recipient of the inaugural Frazier Family Foundation x CFDA Empowered Vision Award. Earlier this year, she also won the Fashion Trust US award for ready-to-wear.

CARICOM leaders congratulate Jamaica’s Andrew Holness on historic third term

Andrew Holness

Caribbean leaders have sent a wave of congratulations to Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, after his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) won Wednesday’s general election, securing 34 of the 63 parliamentary seats and delivering him a historic third consecutive term in office.

Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a letter to Holness, said the victory was a “decisive affirmation by the people of Jamaica” in his leadership. “The people of Jamaica have spoken with clarity, renewing their trust in your policies and that of your party,” Ali wrote. He added that the result opened “new possibilities for deepening regional ties and expanding bilateral cooperation.”

“I look forward, earnestly, to working with you and your government to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Guyana and Jamaica,” Ali continued. “Ours is a partnership that has stood the test of time, enriched by our joint commitment to the Caribbean Community.”

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley also took to social media to offer her congratulations. “Congratulations to Prime Minister-elect @andrewholnessjm and the @jlpjamaica on their victory in Jamaica’s General Elections. Barbados looks forward to strengthening the relationship our two nations share, and working together through CARICOM to build a more prosperous region,” she posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis, in his own post, said: “Congratulations to Prime Minister @AndrewHolnessJM on his election victory. Jamaica has my very best wishes as this new term begins. I look forward to deepening our partnership with CARICOM for the benefit of our region.”

St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew extended his congratulations not only to Holness but also to Guyana’s President Ali, who secured re-election this week. “On behalf of the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @presidentaligy and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on their re-election in Guyana, as well as to Prime Minister @AndrewHolnessJM and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) on their resounding victory at the polls,” Drew wrote.

“In the space of just three days, the peoples of Guyana and Jamaica have once again demonstrated the strength and vitality of democracy in our region. These renewed mandates speak to the confidence their citizens have placed in their leadership and vision for the future,” he added. “We salute the people of both nations for their commitment to the democratic process, and we look forward to continuing our close partnership with Guyana and Jamaica as we work together to advance regional integration, economic growth, and the shared progress of the Caribbean Community.”

Holness’s win marks the first time a Jamaica Labour Party leader has secured three consecutive victories at the polls. On social media, he wrote: “Jamaica, my heart is full. This historic third term is not just a win for the Jamaica Labour Party, it is a win for you, the people. Thank you for your trust, your faith, and your belief in the vision of a stronger, safer, more prosperous Jamaica. This moment is yours. Let’s keep moving in the right direction.”

US shifts Haitian immigrant visa processing to Embassy in The Bahamas

visa

The U.S. Department of State has announced a major change to immigration visa services for Haitian nationals.

As of August 28, 2025, applications for legal permanent residence filed by Haitians will no longer be processed in Port-au-Prince, but at the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas, according to an official notice published by the Consular Affairs Section on its website.

It advised applicants to consult the embassy’s page for detailed instructions and to contact the National Visa Center to confirm or request appointments.

The move comes as Haiti’s security crisis continues to worsen, limiting the ability of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince to operate. The mission has been under a departure order for months, with only a small emergency team remaining on the ground. Routine consular services, including visa processing, have been severely disrupted.

By shifting Haitian immigrant visa cases to Nassau, U.S. officials say they aim to ensure a more secure and functional process for applicants while maintaining essential consular operations.

Applicants should note the following:

  • Existing Appointments:  Existing immigrant visa appointments will generally not be rescheduled or cancelled.
  • Post to Post Transfers:  Beginning immediately, if an applicant would like to transfer her or his immigrant visa case to a new consular district after the National Visa Center has scheduled the appointment, the applicant should contact the National Visa Center.  The applicant should not contact the consular section directly.  Applicants should use the National Visa Center’s Public Inquiry Form.
  • Residence Requirement:  If an applicant requests to interview in a location other than the applicant’s assigned consular district or country of nationality, the National Visa Center may request additional information to confirm that location is an applicant’s place of residence, or to confirm whether an exception may be appropriate.
  • Exceptions:  Rare exceptions may be made for humanitarian or medical emergencies or foreign policy reasons.
  • Diversity Visas:  These changes will be applied to Diversity Visa applicants in the DV-2026 program year.

Fashion designer and icon Giorgio Armani dead at 91

Giorgio Armani

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, whose unstructured, minimalist tailoring transformed modern fashion, died Thursday at the age of 91, his fashion house confirmed.

Armani died at home while recovering from an undisclosed illness. He had missed his runway shows in June but was planning a major celebration of the 50th anniversary of his signature label during Milan Fashion Week in September.

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the fashion house said in a statement. “Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”

Armani’s fashion empire, known for its timeless elegance and sharp simplicity, extended worldwide and was especially popular in the Caribbean. At the time of his death, Forbes estimated his net worth at US$12.1 billion.

A public funeral chamber will be set up at Milan’s Armani Teatro this weekend, allowing mourners to pay their respects from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Italy’s President Giorgia Meloni was among the first to pay tribute. “Giorgio Armani leaves us at 91 years old,” she wrote on X. “With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he was able to bring lustre to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. An icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. Thank you for everything.”

Vybz Kartel to headline back-to-back shows at London’s O2 Arena

Vybz Kartel
Photo Credit Tizzy Tokyo

Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel is set to make his long-awaited UK debut this week with two back-to-back shows at London’s O2 Arena on Thursday, September 4, and Friday, September 5, as part of his Worl’ Boss Tour.

The performances mark Kartel’s first time on a UK stage, following his highly praised set at Wireless Festival in July, where he celebrated two decades in music. Known for his commanding stage presence and expansive catalogue of hits, the deejay is expected to deliver a career-spanning set for fans in the capital.

Doors at the O2 Arena will open at 6:30 p.m., with support DJs taking the stage from 7:00 p.m. Kartel is scheduled to perform at 9:00 p.m., with the show expected to wrap by 10:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., in line with the venue’s weekday schedule.

The London dates are part of a wider tour that has seen Kartel extend his reach to global audiences while celebrating the growth of dancehall on international stages. He will also perform at Manchester’s Co-op Live on Tuesday, September 10.

Often referred to as “World Boss,” Kartel remains one of Jamaica’s most influential dancehall voices, with a catalogue that stretches from classics such as Clarks and Romping Shop to more recent hits.

The O2 concerts are expected to draw thousands of fans eager for a rare chance to see the artist live, with many viewing the shows as an opportunity to experience a dancehall legend at the height of his career.

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