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Guyana rolls out real-time payments and opens banking sector to new international players

guyana President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali

Guyana is preparing for a major overhaul of its financial system with the launch of a real-time payment platform and the entry of new international financial institutions, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced.

Speaking at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry’s (GBTI) 190th Anniversary Dinner at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Saturday, President Ali said the reforms mark a turning point for the country’s banking sector.

The most immediate change will come with the rollout of FAST PAY, a new real-time payments system scheduled to go live on June 2, 2026. Once operational, it will allow customers across participating banks to send and receive money instantly using mobile phones or internet banking platforms.

“Transactions that previously required clearing cycles or branch-level processing will now be completed in seconds,” the president said, adding that the system is expected to reduce reliance on cash and lower transaction costs while improving the speed and convenience of financial services.

Guyana is also set to integrate into India’s Unified Payment Interface (UPI), a widely used digital payments system that enables secure transfers without exposing sensitive bank details. The platform processes billions of transactions monthly in India and is expected to further strengthen Guyana’s digital payments ecosystem.

“Together, these two initiatives will position Guyana at the forefront of digital financial transformation in the region,” President Ali said, describing the move as a step toward a “faster, safer, and more inclusive payments environment.”

At the same time, the Bank of Guyana has granted licences to three new international financial institutions — Citibank, Crown Agents, and One American — expanding the country’s access to global financial services.

While the institutions will not take retail deposits, President Ali said their presence will improve access to international capital markets, trade finance, corporate advisory services, and development funding.

He pointed to strong growth in the sector, noting that private sector credit rose by 20.4 per cent year-on-year in 2025, driven by expansion in construction, agriculture, retail, and services.

Describing GBTI as a key player in the sector’s evolution, President Ali praised the institution for its technological upgrades and long-term vision.

“GBTI is ahead of this golden era,” he said. “They are modernising at a pace that is unbelievable — adopting and applying technology at record-breaking pace.”

He added that the bank is building systems “not to meet today’s requirement, but to meet the requirement of 100 years from now.”

GBTI, which traces its origins to the Colonial Bank era, is one of the Caribbean’s oldest financial institutions, marking 190 years of operations this year.

President Ali said the reforms reflect a broader transformation as Guyana approaches its 60th year of independence, describing the moment as the beginning of a “new golden era of banking.”

Also attending the event were First Lady Arya Ali, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, Culture Minister Charles Ramson Jr., and other officials.

INDECOM probes fatal police shooting of woman as body camera debate reignites

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) in Jamaica has launched a probe into the fatal police shooting of 45-year-old Latoya Bulgin, also known as “Buju,” in Granville, St James, on Sunday, May 17, 2026, as renewed scrutiny builds over the absence of body-worn cameras and rising police fatal shooting figures.

The woman was reportedly killed during an altercation with police officers who were in the area monitoring a protest that had been staged to highlight the killing of a 17-year-old boy in a separate police shooting incident a week earlier. According to early reports, tensions escalated during the demonstration before the confrontation between the woman and law enforcement, resulting in the shooting.

INDECOM said it was notified and has begun an independent investigation after CCTV footage of the incident circulated widely on social media.

In a statement issued Monday, the commission said citizen-recorded video continues to play a critical role in modern oversight of law enforcement.

“The emergence of video evidence by citizens in matters involving the use of force by law enforcement continues to underscore the importance of technology and independent visual documentation in modern policing oversight,” INDECOM said.

It added that such footage helps investigators assess “the conduct of all parties involved, as well as assessing the necessity and proportionality of the use of force,” while also assisting police leadership in making “timely and informed administrative and operational decisions” following critical incidents.

INDECOM confirmed that no body-worn cameras were issued to or worn by the three officers involved, who were reportedly conducting crowd control duties in relation to a protest at the time of the shooting. The commission has urged witnesses, including occupants of the vehicle driven by Bulgin, to come forward with information and additional footage to support the investigation.

The shooting has also drawn political reaction. Member of Parliament for St James West Central Marlene Malahoo Forte said officers should face immediate consequences based on initial observations at the scene, while cautioning that due process must be followed.

“I think this one doesn’t look so good,” she told Gleaner reporters. “Can’t prejudge it, but it doesn’t look good.”

The case has also reignited debate over body-worn cameras, particularly after recent comments from National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang questioning their effectiveness in armed encounters.

Chang has previously said, “It (a body-worn camera) is of very little value,” arguing that in gunfights officers are focused on survival rather than recording footage.

He added, “You put a camera on your chest, you start shooting at somebody, they start shooting at you, you going to dive for cover,” and described expectations for cameras in high-intensity operations as “a crazy idea” when confronting heavily armed suspects.

Chang has maintained that body cameras are more useful in lower-risk policing scenarios such as public order situations and routine enforcement activities.

However, oversight bodies and human rights advocates have consistently pushed back, arguing that body-worn cameras remain essential for accountability even in high-risk operations.

INDECOM itself has repeatedly emphasized the value of video evidence, particularly in reconstructing the sequence of events in fatal police encounters.

The latest incident comes against the backdrop of persistently high levels of lethal force by the security forces.

INDECOM reported that Bulgin’s death brings the total number of fatal shootings in May 2026 to 15 people killed by the security forces, including a double fatal shooting in Hague, Trelawny, on May 16. Year-to-date, 130 people have been fatally shot by the security forces, compared with 129 during the same period in 2025.

The commission also confirmed that no body-worn cameras were issued to or worn by the officers involved in the Granville incident.

Haiti launches nationwide electoral security training program ahead of planned elections

Haiti's new PM Alix Didier Fils-Aimé names 18-member Cabinet
Haiti’s Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has launched a nationwide training program aimed at strengthening electoral security and improving conditions for credible elections across Haiti, as the government moves to reinforce institutions ahead of planned polls.

The initiative, announced under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP), brings together judicial authorities and public security forces in a coordinated effort focused on election preparedness, rule of law enforcement, and anti-corruption safeguards.

Officials said the program is part of the government’s broader strategy built around three priorities: restoring security across the country amid ongoing gang violence, reviving the struggling economy, and organizing what authorities describe as “fair, credible, inclusive, and equitable” elections.

The first phase of training targets Government Commissioners, Justices of the Peace, members of the Haitian National Police (PNH), and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H). Sessions initially focus on the municipalities of Port-au-Prince, Petit-Goâve, and Croix-des-Bouquets, with a wider rollout planned across all 146 municipalities.

The government also confirmed an allocation of more than 3 billion gourdes to support political parties and coalitions as part of the electoral process.

Speaking at the launch, Fils-Aimé reiterated that the state would not retreat in its efforts to regain control from armed groups and stabilize national territory. He also announced plans for a specialized judicial unit dedicated to financial crimes, aimed at preventing money laundering and ensuring clean electoral financing.

“We will fight money laundering. And we will not let dirty money find its way into the ballot boxes,” he said, underscoring concerns about illicit financing in politics.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to security forces operating in high-risk areas, urging continued enforcement against electoral violations and criminal activity. He stressed that all stakeholders in the process must remain accountable to the Haitian people, stating: “You have only one leader: the Haitian people. It is to them alone that you owe loyalty, discipline, and impartiality.”

The initiative comes as Haitian authorities continue to work with the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) and civil society groups to prepare for upcoming elections amid persistent security challenges.

Haiti’s general elections are currently scheduled for August 30, 2026, with a possible second round on December 6, 2026, though the timeline remains dependent on security and logistical conditions in the country.

Rick Fox named to Bahamian Senate after election loss in Garden Hills

Rick Fox

Former NBA player Rick Fox has been selected by the opposition Free National Movement (FNM) to serve in the Bahamian Senate following the country’s recent general election.

According to Reuters, opposition parties in The Bahamas are allotted four seats in the nation’s 16-member Senate. Fox, 56, is among those chosen to represent the FNM in the upper chamber.

The former Los Angeles Lakers star had contested the Garden Hills constituency in the May 12 general election but was defeated by Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate Mario Bowleg.

Fox entered frontline Bahamian politics after previously serving as ambassador-at-large for sports, a position he was appointed to by the government in August 2022. His transition into partisan politics drew public attention in late 2025 when he began openly criticising aspects of the Davis administration and discussing national political issues.

At the time, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell suggested that diplomats unwilling to support the government’s agenda should resign. Fox responded by saying he had “zero intention” of stepping down from the ambassadorial role.

In November 2025, Fox formally announced his candidacy for the 2026 general election, centering his campaign on government transparency, affordability and what he described as the creation of a “modern economy.” He was later ratified as the FNM’s candidate for Garden Hills after months of speculation over whether he would run independently.

During the campaign, Prime Minister Philip Davis claimed Fox had previously sought a nomination from the governing PLP before joining the FNM.

Fox also drew attention for his financial disclosure filings, which listed approximately US$470 million in total assets and US$4.8 million in annual income, making him the wealthiest declared candidate in the election. The disclosure included US$432 million in securities and investments, US$14.5 million in accounts receivable, US$11 million in real estate holdings and roughly US$192,000 in bank assets. The figures were significantly higher than previous public estimates of his net worth, which had generally been reported at more than US$20 million.

Questions surrounding Fox’s citizenship and eligibility to run for office also became a topic of debate during the campaign. Fox said in October 2025 that he would be willing to renounce his Canadian citizenship if he entered “frontline politics.” Under Bahamian law, individuals who voluntarily hold citizenship in another country may be disqualified from serving in the House of Assembly.

General elections in The Bahamas were held on May 12, 2026, to elect all 41 members of the House of Assembly. The PLP secured a second consecutive term in office, with Davis becoming the first Bahamian prime minister since 1997 to win re-election. FNM leader Michael Pintard conceded the election just hours after polls closed.

Haitian Flag Day celebrates history, pride and resilience across the diaspora

Haitian Flag Day

Haitians across the world are celebrating Haitian Flag Day today, May 18, marking one of the country’s most important national holidays and honoring the creation of the Haitian flag during the Haitian Revolution in 1803. The observance commemorates the adoption of the blue and red flag at the Congress of Arcahaie, a defining moment in Haiti’s fight for independence from France.

According to historical accounts, revolutionary leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines removed the white stripe from the French tricolor flag as a symbolic rejection of colonial rule. His goddaughter, Catherine Flon, is widely credited with sewing together the remaining blue and red sections to create what became Haiti’s national flag.

The holiday is celebrated annually on May 18 and is officially recognized in Haiti as Flag and University Day. The observance not only honors the flag itself, but also Haiti’s educational institutions and the country’s revolutionary legacy as the world’s first Black republic established through a successful slave revolt.

Haitian Flag Day in South Florida

South Florida remains home to one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the world outside of Haiti. Recent U.S. Census estimates show Florida’s Haitian population exceeds 500,000 people, with the largest concentrations living in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. Broward County alone is estimated to have nearly 129,000 Haitian residents, while Miami-Dade has more than 112,000 and Palm Beach County more than 92,000. Cities such as North Miami, North Miami Beach, Miramar, Lauderhill and Boynton Beach have particularly strong Haitian cultural influences.

Researchers and community organizations have described South Florida as the cultural heart of the Haitian diaspora in the United States, with Little Haiti in Miami serving as a historic center for Haitian art, business, cuisine and music. In Florida, Haitian Creole is now the third most-spoken language after English and Spanish, underscoring the community’s growing cultural and economic influence across the state.

Throughout Haiti and in Haitian communities abroad, Flag Day is marked by parades, cultural performances, music, food festivals and patriotic displays. South Florida is once again hosting several celebrations tied to Haitian Heritage Month.

One of the major events taking place in Miami is the four-day Haitian Flag Day Weekend celebration, which runs through May 18 and features parties, brunches, pool events and community gatherings at multiple venues, including Lowkey’s Hookah Lounge. Presented by DJ Kochy Mix, organizers say the event blends entertainment with cultural connection and community support, including donation efforts benefiting Haiti.

The weekend celebration includes daytime and nightlife events centered around Haitian music, culture and social gatherings, with attendees able to purchase passes covering the entire series of activities.

Meanwhile, the City of North Miami is hosting a Haitian Flag Day Celebration today from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at MOCA Plaza. The family-friendly event, part of Haitian Heritage Month festivities, will feature live music, Haitian cuisine, local vendors and educational activities focused on the history and meaning of the Haitian flag.

Organizers say the event is intended to celebrate Haitian culture while bringing together residents of all backgrounds to learn more about Haiti’s contributions, traditions and enduring spirit.

Today, Haitian Flag Day continues to serve as both a celebration and a symbol of resilience for Haitians around the world, especially amid ongoing political and economic challenges facing the Caribbean nation.

Vybz Kartel honored with 2 major awards at 2026 IRAWMA ceremony; wins 9 total

Vybz Kartel

Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel added to his global resurgence on Sunday night after receiving the Jimmy Cliff Award and the Best Caribbean Entertainer Award at the 43rd annual International Reggae and World Music Awards in Lauderhill.

Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, took home nine awards during the ceremony held at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center on May 17, including the Hon. Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year, the Peter Tosh Award for Recording Artist of the Year and the Best Caribbean Entertainer Award.

The Best Caribbean Entertainer Award was presented to Kartel by reggae artist Ky-Mani Marley during the ceremony.

Kartel also won the Gregory Isaacs Award for Best Song for “God Is the Greatest,” the Toots Hibbert Award for Best Album/CD for “Heart and Soul,” the Jimmy Cliff Award for Best Crossover Song and Best Male DJ/Rapper.

His two shared wins came through “You Remind Me,” the DJ Khaled track featuring Kartel, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer and Mavado. The song won Best Collaboration Reggae Song and Best Music Video.

The recognition follows Kartel’s widely publicized 2025 Worl’ Boss Tour, which saw the entertainer perform across multiple international markets after returning to the global stage.

Kartel entered this year’s IRAWMA ceremony as the leading nominee, earning 11 nominations across nine categories. Other major nominees included Shaggy, Sean Paul, Spice and Shenseea.

Other Jamaican and Caribbean acts also collected awards during the evening. Shenseea won Best Female DJ/Rapper, Masicka’s “Her Name Is Love” won Best EP Recording, Spice won Best Dancehall Stagecraft Entertainer and the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award, Busy Signal was named Best Singjay Entertainer, and DJ Mac won Producer of the Year.

Following his win, Kartel shared an extensive message on Instagram thanking the International Reggae and World Music Awards and supporters around the world.

 

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A post shared by KING OF DANCEHALL (@vybzkartel)

“Tonight, I give thanks to the International Reggae And World Music Awards for this incredible honor,” Kartel wrote.

“Awards like these do more than celebrate individuals — they help preserve the heartbeat of our culture. They remind the world that reggae and dancehall are not just music… they are history, struggle, triumph, spirit, and identity. To be recognized by your peers is one of the highest honors an artist can receive, because greatness means more when it is acknowledged by those who truly understand the journey.”

He continued: “As we say, ‘Legends don’t live forever through fame alone… they live forever through the people they inspire.’”

Kartel also thanked the event organizers and members of the music industry for continuing to elevate Caribbean culture globally.

“Big respect to the organizers, the entire IRAWMA team, every selector, producer, artist, media house, and supporter who continues to push Caribbean culture forward on the world stage,” he said.

The entertainer also paid tribute to his supporters worldwide.

“To my fans worldwide — Gaza nation — thank you for standing with me through every chapter. This moment belongs to you as much as it belongs to me.”

Kartel ended the statement by expressing gratitude to God.

“And last but certainly never least… thank you GOD. For the strength, the lessons, the purpose, and the blessings. Without Him, none of this is possible.

“Humbled. Grateful. Still working.
– Vybz Kartel.”

Miami-Dade resumes school bus camera ticketing program

school bus

Drivers in Miami-Dade County who illegally pass stopped school buses will begin receiving $225 citations in the mail starting Monday as authorities officially relaunch the county’s school bus camera enforcement program.

The relaunched Miami-Dade County Bus Infraction Detection Program comes after a 14-day warning and education period that began on May 4. Officials said the initiative is aimed at improving student safety by targeting motorists who ignore school bus stop arms and flashing red lights.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, approximately 900 school buses across the county will now be equipped with cameras capable of capturing potential violations. Authorities said all footage will be reviewed by deputies before citations are issued.

“Passing a stopped school bus is illegal, dangerous, and puts children at risk,” officials said, reminding drivers that they must stop whenever a bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended.

Authorities cited national and statewide statistics showing the scale of the issue. Officials said an estimated 40 million drivers across the United States illegally pass stopped school buses each year, while Florida records an average of more than 8,000 violations daily.

The enforcement program was originally launched in 2024 but was suspended last April following public complaints and what Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz described as “unacceptable errors” in enforcement.

Some drivers reported receiving citations despite believing they had obeyed traffic laws, while other tickets reportedly contained incorrect citation numbers and fine amounts.

Cordero-Stutz said changes have since been implemented to address those concerns, including revisions to state law, increased transparency, enhanced deputy training, and stronger oversight of the video review process.

“Those concerns helped lead to important clarification at the state level, changing the law statewide, strengthening the framework under which BusPatrol now operates, and ensuring greater consistency and transparency,” the sheriff said Friday.

Officials also noted that deputies will now play a greater role in reviewing video evidence before citations are approved. Additional personnel are also being assigned to the program as part of the expanded oversight measures.

Under updated state rules, drivers who receive citations will now have the option of contesting tickets through a local hearing process.

Authorities also confirmed that outstanding citations issued under the previous version of the program will be dismissed.

Immigration lawyer in Houston: Personalized support for your immigration journey

lawyer personal injury claim

Immigration is deeply personal. Your status affects your family, your work, your ability to travel, and your sense of security. When you live in Houston and face the United States immigration system, you deserve a legal partner who understands both the law and the human side of this process.

Working with the Law Firm of Nisreen Mousa, you receive guidance from an immigration lawyer in Houston who focuses on clear communication, thoughtful preparation, and respect for your story. Instead of feeling lost in paperwork and deadlines, you gain a plan, a strategy, and a team that treats your case with care.

Why the Right Immigration Lawyer in Houston Matters

Immigration laws change often, and small mistakes can lead to long delays or denials. Forms must be accurate, deadlines must be met, and supporting evidence must be organized and complete. When you handle this alone, you risk:

  • Submitting incomplete or inconsistent applications

  • Missing important filing dates

  • Misunderstanding eligibility rules

  • Struggling to respond to government requests

By working with a Houston immigration lawyer who focuses on immigration every day, you give yourself a better chance at a smooth process. You have someone to explain your options, help you avoid common pitfalls, and build a strong, well-documented case from the beginning.

What Sets the law firm of nisreen mousa Apart

At the law firm of nisreen mousa, the focus goes beyond forms and legal codes. The practice is built around people and their futures. Clients often choose this Houston-based immigration lawyer because of:

  • Personal attention to each case – You are not treated as a file number. Your goals, your timeline, and your family situation guide the legal strategy.

  • Clear, honest communication – You receive straightforward explanations of your options, risks, and likely timelines, without confusing legal jargon.

  • Respect for cultural backgrounds – Many clients come from different countries, languages, and traditions. That diversity is treated as a strength, not an obstacle.

  • Detail-oriented case preparation – Evidence is carefully reviewed, organized, and supported so your application presents the strongest possible picture of your eligibility.

This personal approach helps you feel informed and supported at every stage, from the first consultation to your final decision or interview.

Immigration Services Focused on Your Needs in Houston

Immigration cases are rarely simple. You might be trying to bring a spouse to the United States, adjust your status, or protect yourself from removal. An experienced immigration lawyer in Houston can assist with a wide range of matters, including:

Family-Based Immigration

  • Petitions for spouses, children, parents, and other qualifying relatives

  • Adjustment of status for those already living in the United States

  • Consular processing for relatives living abroad

  • Fiancé(e) visas and related documentation

Employment and Business Immigration

  • Work visas and employment-based petitions

  • Advice for professionals, skilled workers, and employers seeking to hire foreign talent

  • Long-term planning toward permanent residence when possible

Humanitarian and Protection-Based Relief

  • Asylum and related protections

  • Relief for survivors of abuse or certain crimes under specific immigration programs

  • Strategies to protect vulnerable individuals and families

Citizenship and Naturalization

  • Naturalization applications for lawful permanent residents

  • Support in preparing for the civics and English tests

  • Guidance for those with complex histories, such as prior arrests or long absences

Each case is different. A thoughtful Houston immigration lawyer will review your background, explain realistic options, and help you choose the path that best fits your long-term plans.

A Human Approach to a Stressful Legal Process

Immigration cases are not just legal problems; they are life decisions. Many people feel stress, fear, and uncertainty when they start this process. A caring immigration lawyer in Houston understands that you need more than technical advice. You also need:

  •  
  • Patience and empathy when you have questions or worries

  • Regular updates so you are not left wondering what is happening with your case

  • Honest expectations about timing, approval chances, and possible challenges

  • Preparation for important moments, such as interviews or hearings

At the law firm of nisreen mousa, you are encouraged to ask questions and share your concerns. The team spends time explaining each step, from gathering documents to attending appointments, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

Common Questions People in Houston Ask About Immigration Lawyers

Do I really need an immigration lawyer?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but having a knowledgeable advocate often reduces mistakes and delays. An experienced immigration lawyer in Houston can:

  • Evaluate all your options instead of just one route

  • Spot issues that could cause trouble later

  • Prepare you for interviews and requests for evidence

  • Help you correct past errors or incomplete applications

How long does the immigration process take?

Processing times vary widely based on the type of case, your background, and government backlogs. A careful lawyer will not promise instant results. Instead, they give you realistic timelines, explain possible delays, and help you take steps to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

How much communication should I expect?

Clear communication is essential. The law firm of nisreen mousa prioritizes regular contact and clear explanations, so you know when documents are filed, when responses are received, and what your next step should be.

 

How to Prepare for Your First Consultation in Houston

To make the most of your first meeting with a Houston immigration lawyer, it helps to arrive prepared. Consider bringing:

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  • Passports and travel documents

  • Current and expired visas, if any

  • Notices or letters from immigration authorities or courts

  • Marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other family records

  • Employment documents, such as job offers or contracts

  • A written timeline of your immigration and travel history

Additionally, think about your long-term goals. Do you hope to become a permanent resident? Sponsor family members? Apply for citizenship in the future? When your lawyer understands your goals, they can design a strategic plan instead of focusing only on the next form to file.

Choosing the Right Partner for Your Immigration Future

Your immigration case deserves careful handling, clear answers, and genuine respect. When you work with the law firm of nisreen mousa, you gain a Houston-based immigration lawyer committed to combining legal skill with compassion and practical guidance.

You are not expected to manage complicated rules, strict deadlines, and detailed evidence alone. With the right support, you can face the process with more confidence and a clearer understanding of your options.

If you live in Houston and want thoughtful, dedicated help with your immigration journey, consider reaching out to the law firm of nisreen mousa to discuss your situation, ask your questions, and explore the best path forward for you and your family.

 

Guyana airport solar project expected to save US$800,000 annually

Cheddi Jagan International Airport Guyana
Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

A new three-meawatt grid-tied solar photovoltaic plant slated for installation at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport is expected to save approximately US$800,000 annually in electricity costs when completed in June 2027.

Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr. Mahender Sharma, said the facility will generate electricity to offset the airport’s daytime energy consumption, while excess power will be exported to the Guyana Power and Light grid.

Sharma told the Department of Public Information on Tuesday that the solar plant is projected to generate approximately 4,544 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, surpassing the airport’s current yearly consumption of about 3,637 megawatt-hours.

The project is also expected to support Guyana’s transition toward cleaner energy by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Officials said the facility is projected to generate more than 112 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy over its estimated 25-year lifespan while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 72,000 metric tonnes.

Preparatory work on the project is already underway. Officials said the site has been cleared and several technical and engineering studies have been completed, including geotechnical investigations, photovoltaic layout design, shadow analysis, earthing studies and lightning protection assessments.

Detailed engineering designs have also been finalized, with authorities currently reviewing and approving major components and equipment for the facility.

Major civil works are expected to begin shortly and will include foundation construction, installation of mounting structures, cable trenching, inverter and transformer installation, and works needed to connect the system to the Guyana Power and Light network.

The next phase of the project will involve the procurement and importation of solar photovoltaic equipment and supporting electrical infrastructure.

Barbados regulators monitoring transactions linked to 1MDB scandal

Central Bank of Barbados

Financial regulators in Barbados are monitoring suspicious financial transactions involving millions of dollars allegedly linked to funds misappropriated from Malaysia’s state-owned 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

According to Barbados Today, the Central Bank of Barbados and the Financial Services Commission (FSC) confirmed they are tracking developments after the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) disclosed that it had secured a court order freezing approximately US$1.7 million held in accounts at a Barbados-based bank with Swiss headquarters.

The MACC said the order was granted by a Kuala Lumpur High Court in April under Malaysia’s anti-money laundering legislation after investigators linked the funds to suspected money laundering activities.

According to Malaysian authorities, investigations found that between 2014 and 2019, several individuals connected to offshore companies allegedly received, concealed, transferred and converted proceeds of unlawful activities through Barbados-based accounts.

The funds subject to the court order include more than US$56,000 linked to one investment entity and approximately US$1.65 million connected to another institution.

Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, Kevin Greenidge, told Barbados Today that the bank was aware of reports concerning the foreign court order but declined to comment on specific supervisory matters.

Greenidge said Barbados’ regulatory framework requires financial institutions to comply with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations and noted that authorities cooperate with domestic and international agencies in accordance with the law.

The FSC also confirmed it was monitoring the situation, noting that such matters involve coordination among multiple agencies, including Barbados’ Financial Intelligence Unit and overseas authorities.

The 1MDB scandal is one of the world’s largest corruption cases and has involved allegations of money laundering, fraud and theft linked to billions of US dollars from the Malaysian state investment fund.

The scandal contributed to the downfall and imprisonment of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

United States authorities previously alleged that at least US$3.5 billion was stolen from the fund, while later estimates placed the amount at approximately US$4.5 billion.

The United States Department of Justice has since recovered and returned more than US$1.2 billion in misappropriated 1MDB-related assets to Malaysia as part of an ongoing international anti-corruption effort.

Champions return to familiar territory for Matrix Sporting Clay battle

2025 Matrix Sporting Clay Competition champion Chad Ziadie (left) receives his prizes from Max Williams of the Matrix Foundation at Knolford Ranch in Bog Walk, St. Catherine.

The stage is set for another fierce showdown at the Knolford Ranch in Bog Walk, St. Catherine, where defending champions Chad Ziadie and Aliana McMaster will attempt to protect their crowns at the third staging of the Matrix Sporting Clay Competition on Sunday, May 17.

With a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start scheduled, the event is expected to draw many of the island’s most accomplished sporting clay shooters to a venue that has historically brought success to both title holders.

Deep field of national talent promises intense contest

Retaining the titles will be no easy task.

A stacked field featuring several of Jamaica’s premier shotgun competitors is expected to produce one of the toughest editions of the tournament yet. Among the headline contenders are nine-time national shotgun champion Ian Banks, seven-time national champion Shaun Barnes, and four-time national champion Christian Sasso, who captured the Matrix title in 2024.

Also expected to challenge strongly are Ray McMaster and Roman Tavares-Finson, alongside a growing crop of talented marksmen who continue to elevate the standard of the sport locally.

The women’s competition is also shaping up to be highly competitive. Wendy McMaster, Lori-Anne Harris, Toni Barnes, and Marguerite Harris are among the leading contenders expected to push defending champion Aliana McMaster throughout the day.

Seventeen stations designed to test every skill

Competitors across Classes A through E, along with Hunters or Beginners, Juniors, Sub-Juniors, and Ladies divisions, will tackle a demanding 17-station driving course designed to challenge precision, timing, and adaptability.

Shooters will face a wide variety of targets throughout the course, including true pairs, birds launched simultaneously, along with rabbits skimming across the ground and airborne targets released at changing speeds, trajectories, and angles.

For many participants, the competition is about more than trophies. Strong performances could also lead to promotion into more advanced shooting classes.

Matrix Foundation continues commitment to community development

While the competition itself promises excitement, the event’s organizers continue to emphasize its charitable purpose.

The three-year-old Matrix Foundation has made community outreach a central pillar of its mission, particularly through its support of Good Hope Primary School in Old Harbour, St. Catherine.

One of the Foundation’s earliest and most impactful projects addressed the school’s longstanding water challenges. The organization financed and installed additional water tanks while also outfitting the main building with guttering systems to support rainwater harvesting.

The improvements significantly transformed daily operations at the institution.

Ladies champion Aliana McMaster (left) accepts her trophy from Matthew Sale of the Matrix Foundation following the Matrix Sporting Clay Competition at Knolford Ranch in Bog Walk, St. Catherine.

“As a direct result of these improvements, the school has not had to close due to water shortages since the upgrades were completed,” organizers noted, adding that the project created “a more stable and reliable environment for the school community.”

Following the success of the water initiative, the Foundation also renovated the school’s bathroom facilities to improve sanitation and comfort for both students and staff.

Charitable reach expands in 2026

This year, the Matrix Foundation plans to broaden its charitable efforts by supporting organizations such as Food For The Poor and the Jamaica Cancer Society, particularly in initiatives connected to breast cancer awareness and assistance programs.

Corporate backing for the event remains strong. The Matrix Group of Companies serves as title sponsor, while Mayberry Investments, Valumart, and Andy Gone Nuts are listed among the major supporting sponsors.

 

Rayudu crowns Narine IPL’s greatest after another match-winning masterclass

West Indies

Two hundred matches into a remarkable Indian Premier League career, Sunil Narine is still producing performances that leave former players searching for new superlatives.

The Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder once again proved decisive in IPL 2026, delivering a disciplined spell of two for 29 from four overs to guide KKR to a commanding 29-run victory over Gujarat Titans. The performance earned Narine the player-of-the-match award in his milestone 200th IPL appearance and reignited debate about where he ranks among the league’s all-time greats.

For former India batter Ambati Rayudu, the answer is already settled.

Rayudu places Narine above every IPL great

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, Rayudu declared that Narine stands alone at the summit of IPL history because of his unmatched ability to influence matches across multiple eras of the competition.

“Proper match-winner with the ball, and with the bat,” Rayudu said. “There have been such great players in the IPL, but this guy always stands out. He’s on the top of the list for me.”

The praise reflected not only Narine’s latest performance, but also the extraordinary consistency that has defined his journey since arriving at Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012.

Bangar salutes ‘Legend of the League’

Former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar echoed those sentiments, describing Narine as “a legend of the league” while placing the West Indian among the five greatest IPL performers of all time.

Bangar pointed to Narine’s ability to evolve throughout his career, particularly during periods when scrutiny over his bowling action threatened to derail his effectiveness.

“He seems to have found another way of delivering with the same overspin that you generally associate with his skill set, while retaining the ability to get the ball turning both ways,” Bangar said. “That puts massive doubts in the batter’s mind.”

Even after years of analysis from opponents and changes in T20 batting philosophy, Narine continues to remain one of the most difficult bowlers to attack.

Numbers that define an era

Narine’s statistical record reinforces the admiration surrounding his career.

The Trinidadian spinner currently ranks third on the IPL’s all-time wicket-taking list with 205 wickets, trailing only Yuzvendra Chahal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He is also the most-capped overseas player in league history and has represented only Kolkata Knight Riders throughout his IPL career.

His influence has been central to KKR’s championship triumphs in 2012, 2014, and 2024.

In his debut season, Narine collected 24 wickets at a stunning economy rate of 5.47. He followed that effort with 21 wickets at 6.35 during KKR’s 2014 title run and later added 17 wickets at 6.69 in the franchise’s victorious 2024 campaign.

Perhaps most remarkably, Narine has never recorded an economy rate above eight runs per over in any IPL season. In the current campaign, he is conceding just 6.79 runs per over.

Consistency has become the extraordinary

Bangar argued that Narine’s latest match-winning spell against Gujarat Titans was not unusual by his standards, and that, in itself, highlights the scale of his greatness.

“These are regulation figures for him,” Bangar said. “He has not done anything extraordinary, he has just done what he does on a regular basis.”

That relentless consistency across more than a decade of IPL cricket has allowed Narine to remain elite in a format increasingly dominated by aggressive batting.

Why batters still struggle against him

Rayudu also offered insight into why Narine continues to trouble even the most explosive T20 hitters.

“With Sunil Narine, everything he bowls tends to just hold in the surface,” Rayudu said. “His ball never skids onto the bat. As a batsman, it’s always tough to line him up because the ball tends to hold and you lose your shape more often than not.”

For opponents, the challenge has remained constant for more than a decade. For Narine, so has the excellence.

Bermuda moves toward sweeping electoral reform this September

bermuda government house

The Government of Bermuda has confirmed a major step forward in its electoral reform agenda, announcing that an Electoral Reform Working Group is now ready to be formally appointed following months of consultation, public engagement, and regional study visits.

Cabinet Office officials said the reform programme is aimed at strengthening voter access, improving election administration, increasing transparency in campaign finance, and modernizing governance and oversight of the electoral system.

The update was delivered by a senior government official on May 14, outlining progress on what is being described as a comprehensive overhaul of Bermuda’s democratic processes.

Electoral reform work has been structured around four pillars: voter access and registration, election-day administration, campaign and election finance, and governance and oversight.

Officials said extensive public consultation has taken place since late 2025, including town halls, youth forums, radio discussions, online engagement, and written submissions. Feedback highlighted concerns about absentee voting, voter roll accuracy, campaign finance transparency, and overall confidence in election oversight.

A key component of the reform process included a recent observer mission to Bahamas, where Bermudian officials reviewed election procedures during the country’s general election.

The delegation examined voter verification systems, overseas voting arrangements, and the operations of election management bodies. Officials noted emerging trends in the Bahamas, including movement toward biometric voter identification, digital voter records, and electronic poll books, alongside stronger links between voter IDs and official identification documents.

The study visit was described as particularly useful in assessing how other Caribbean jurisdictions are modernizing electoral systems and managing campaign finance oversight.

Campaign finance reform has been identified as a major gap in Bermuda’s current system. Officials acknowledged that there are currently no comprehensive rules governing donation disclosure, spending limits, or standardized reporting requirements for political campaigns.

The government said specialized policy support is now being developed to address these issues, alongside wider review work on financial transparency and enforcement mechanisms.

The Electoral Reform Working Group will include representatives from the Parliamentary Registrar’s Office, government, opposition parties, youth representatives, and technical experts in law, administration, and data systems. Its role will be to assess proposals before any legislation is drafted.

Officials stressed that the group is not political in nature, but rather a technical body tasked with testing whether proposed reforms are practical, enforceable, and capable of maintaining public trust.

Among the key issues to be reviewed are absentee voting—particularly for students abroad—campaign finance regulation, polling station consistency, voter registration systems, and whether Bermuda should strengthen its existing electoral office or establish an independent electoral commission.

The group may also conduct simulations or mock election exercises to test proposed changes before implementation.

While the original timeline targeted March for the group’s formation, officials said additional preparation work led to a delay. However, they emphasized that research, consultation, and policy development continued during that period.

The government said it remains on track to introduce electoral reform legislation in September 2026, following the working group’s review period, which is expected to last four to six weeks.

Officials said the aim is not speed, but durability.

“This work matters,” the statement said. “We are preparing reforms that are intended to last.”

Westmoreland health officials step up surveillance amid regional hantavirus concerns

Hantavirus

Health authorities in Westmoreland have intensified surveillance measures in response to regional concerns about hantavirus, even though no confirmed cases have been detected in Jamaica, a senior health official said.

Medical Officer of Health for Westmoreland, Dr. Marcia Graham, said monitoring efforts have been strengthened at ports of entry as a precautionary measure against potential exposure linked to international travel.

She made the disclosure during a meeting of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation in Savanna-la-Mar on Thursday, May 14.

Dr. Graham said individuals identified as possible contacts would be closely monitored due to the virus’s incubation period, which can range from one to eight weeks. She noted that suspected cases would typically be isolated for up to six weeks as a precaution, although no cases are currently under surveillance locally.

Hantavirus is a rare but serious disease that is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, and public health officials across the region have been maintaining heightened awareness amid global monitoring efforts.

Dr. Graham also urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation, citing the circulation of fake public health notices on social media falsely using the Ministry of Health and Wellness branding.

She encouraged residents to rely on verified sources, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In addition to hantavirus surveillance, she reiterated calls for stronger mosquito-breeding prevention and rodent-control measures in communities to reduce broader public health risks.

Dr. Graham also raised concern about a continued rise in accidental poisonings among children in the parish, urging parents and caregivers to properly store household chemicals and other hazardous substances out of reach.

“We’re still seeing too many children admitted to the hospital with accidental poisoning,” she said.

Antigua and Barbuda moves to make Spanish official second language

Antigua and Barbuda to host investment conference in March 2025
Prime Minister Gaston Browne

Antigua and Barbuda is set to make Spanish its official second language under a new government policy aimed at expanding multilingual education and strengthening regional and international ties, according to a statement from the Cabinet.

The announcement follows a weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, where officials approved a broad language and integration strategy that will see Spanish introduced as a core subject across the national education system.

As part of the policy, the Ministry of Education and Science and Technology has been instructed to restructure the curriculum at the pre-school, primary and secondary levels to embed Spanish instruction more deeply throughout students’ schooling.

Officials said the move reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s expanding engagement with Spanish-speaking countries and the need to equip future generations with language skills that can support education, diplomacy, tourism, trade and employment opportunities.

“The Government believes that strengthening Spanish language competency among citizens and residents will improve communication, regional integration, tourism, trade and workforce competitiveness, while enhancing Antigua and Barbuda’s capacity to engage more effectively with Spanish-speaking countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean,” the statement said.

The policy also highlights long-standing cultural and social ties with the Dominican Republic, noting the contribution of the Dominican community to national development and growing people-to-people connections between the two countries.

Alongside the language reform, Cabinet approved a new Dominican Republic Integration Programme (DRIP), designed to deepen economic, cultural and institutional cooperation between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic.

The initiative is expected to facilitate trade and investment flows, strengthen tourism and education collaboration, and provide more structured support for Dominican residents living in the country.

A key component of the plan includes the establishment of a Spanish Desk within the Office of the Prime Minister, intended to serve as a dedicated point of contact for Spanish-speaking residents seeking access to government services and assistance.

Cabinet said the desk will improve communication and community integration while supporting smoother engagement between government institutions and Spanish-speaking populations.

Officials described the broader policy shift as part of a wider effort to promote inclusion, regional cooperation and national development in an increasingly interconnected Caribbean and global environment.

Bahamas deport 107 Haitians in latest immigration enforcement operation

Four Jamaicans arrested in Alabama for alleged involvement in lottery scam

The Bahamas Department of Immigration says it has deported 107 Haitian nationals as part of ongoing enforcement operations aimed at ensuring compliance with immigration laws across the archipelago.

In a statement, the department said the group included 22 women and five minors, with authorities citing a mix of immigration violations, including overstaying permitted entry periods and illegal landing offences.

Officials said the migrants departed Lynden Pindling International Airport on a Bahamasair flight, adding that standard health and safety protocols were followed during the operation.

The department said the group is expected to be processed by immigration authorities upon arrival in Haiti, with the five minor children to be handed over to child welfare services.

Authorities also disclosed that 15 additional foreign nationals were deported earlier in the week, including three Jamaicans, alongside citizens from countries such as Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Romania, Cuba, Ecuador and Moldova.

The department said the enforcement actions are part of broader efforts to uphold immigration laws and encouraged the public to report suspected violations.

UN warns Cuba’s healthcare system under severe strain amid power outages and shortages

© UNOCHA Edem Wosornu (2nd left), OCHA’s Director of Operations and Advocacy visits a food canteen in Cuba.

Hospitals across Cuba are suspending surgeries, struggling to keep critical equipment running, and facing severe medicine shortages as prolonged blackouts and fuel constraints deepen pressure on the country’s healthcare system, senior United Nations officials warned Friday.

Officials from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) said hospitals are increasingly unable to maintain stable emergency and routine services due to shortages of electricity, fuel, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.

The briefing was delivered by OCHA’s Edem Wosornu and WHO’s Altaf Musani following a three-day mission to the island.

They said disruptions are affecting emergency care, blood banks, laboratories, immunization programs, and maternal and child health services.

In some regions, blackouts lasting up to 20 hours have forced hospitals to postpone non-emergency surgeries, while fuel shortages are limiting ambulance operations and delaying access to urgent care.

Officials estimated that more than 100,000 patients—including about 11,000 children—are currently waiting for delayed surgical procedures linked to outages and supply constraints.

They also warned that roughly five million people living with chronic illnesses face interruptions to essential treatment, including patients requiring radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

“Human cost is significant and continues to grow,” Musani said, noting that clinics are operating under unstable conditions with critical shortages of supplies and electricity.

Maternal health services are also under pressure, with more than 32,000 pregnant women facing heightened risks due to reduced access to diagnostics, transport disruptions and unreliable power supplies in neonatal units.

“Staff have to carry water up the stairs while women give birth since pumps don’t work,” Wosornu said, describing conditions inside some facilities.

She added that transportation breakdowns are also affecting food deliveries, reducing access to fresh produce and protein for vulnerable populations.

Public health experts warned that disruptions to water systems, refrigeration and sanitation could increase the risk of diseases such as dengue and chikungunya. Immunization programs remain in place but are being strained by cold-chain failures and logistical challenges.

Despite the deteriorating conditions, UN officials praised frontline health workers, saying doctors and nurses continue to operate under extremely difficult circumstances.

“Life saving aid must reach people without delays. Acting fast and working together is the only way to stop the situation from getting worse,” Wosornu said.

Bahamas PM Philip Davis unveils expanded 28-member Cabinet following election victory

Bahamas PM

The Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis has unveiled one of the largest executive administrations in Bahamian history, swearing in a 28-member Cabinet and ministerial team following the Progressive Liberal Party’s landslide general election victory.

The new administration includes 21 Cabinet ministers and seven state ministers, in addition to Davis, with the full lineup formally sworn in during ceremonies held over three days at Government House in Nassau.

Davis said the expanded team reflects the scale of governance challenges facing the country and the need for a broad leadership structure to deliver on national priorities.

“Progress is never guaranteed and every generation has a responsibility to strengthen the country it inherited,” he said during remarks marking the completion of the appointments.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper was sworn in as Minister of Education, Science and Technology, while Wayne Munroe moved from the national security portfolio to serve as Senator, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs.

Fred Mitchell returns as Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Michael Halkitis was appointed Minister of Finance.

Other Cabinet appointments include Clay Sweeting as Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, Michael Darville as Minister of Health and Wellness, and Glenys Hanna-Martin as Minister of Tourism.

Keith Bell was named Minister of Housing and Land Reform, while Jobeth Coleby-Davis takes on Energy, Utilities and Aviation. Mario Bowleg was appointed Minister of Youth and Sports.

The Cabinet also includes Jomo Campbell, Pia Glover-Rolle, and Zane Lightbourne, alongside returning minister Ginger Moxey.

Lisa Rahming, Myles Laroda, Leon Lundy, and Leslia Miller-Brice were also sworn in.

New senators appointed to Cabinet include Jerome Fitzgerald and Barbara Cartwright. Businessman Sebas Bastian was also appointed Minister of Innovation and National Development.

Several state ministers were also sworn in, including Bacchus Rolle, Leonardo Lightbourne, Kirk Cornish, Mckell Bonaby, Wayde Watson, Darren Pickstock, and Owen Wells.

Davis, who was sworn in for a second term, is the first Bahamian prime minister in nearly three decades to win consecutive elections.

In his address, he said the administration faces a demanding agenda focused on economic stability, education reform, infrastructure development, healthcare improvement, and public safety.

He added that the government’s “Blueprint for Progress” would guide its agenda, emphasizing accountability and long-term national development.

“Our mandate from the Bahamian people was won on our promise to complete what we started in the last term,” Davis said. “The work begins immediately.”

Gov. DeSantis signs bill expanding school safety measures to Florida colleges and universities

Florida State University, FSU shooting
Law enforcement on FSU campus after a mass shooting occurred Thursday. Alicia Devine, USA TODAY Network

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed legislation expanding school safety and campus security measures to colleges and universities across Florida, state officials announced Friday.

The governor signed House Bill 757 during the 5th Annual Commissioner’s Summit focused on school safety and security in Miami.

The legislation comes just over a year after a gunman opened fire at Florida State University’s student union on April 17, 2025, killing two people and injuring six others before being shot by police, according to investigators.

According to the governor’s office, the new law strengthens protections for students, faculty and staff at public postsecondary institutions and builds on the state’s existing school safety framework.

“We’ve made historic strides to implement school safety measures that are working to protect our schools. Today, I was proud to build on these efforts by signing HB 757, which enhances campus security requirements and best practices at our colleges and universities throughout Florida,” DeSantis said in a statement.

“We can have the highest academic standards, the strongest workforce programs, and the most innovative pathways for students, but must also continue our focus on the safety of our students and educators,” he added.

The legislation expands participation in the Chris Hixon, Coach Aaron Feis and Coach Scott Beigel Guardian Program to include Florida’s public colleges and universities.

The Guardian Program was established in 2018 through the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Under the program, specially trained individuals may serve as armed guardians on school campuses to deter and respond to active assailant incidents. Participants are required to undergo psychological evaluations, drug screenings and at least 144 hours of training conducted by local sheriffs’ offices.

The new law also creates a second-degree felony offense for discharging a weapon or firearm within 1,000 feet of a school.

Additionally, public colleges and universities will now be required to develop active assailant response plans, establish threat management teams to identify and address safety risks, and create family reunification procedures for emergency situations.

Anastasios Kamoutsas, Florida’s commissioner of education, said the legislation further strengthens the state’s reputation as a national leader in school safety.

“By extending the Guardian Program to higher education institutions, we are equipping campuses with additional tools to help safeguard students and professors,” Kamoutsas said.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to learn in a safe and secure environment, and this legislation reinforces Florida’s unwavering commitment to protect our schools,” he added.

Florida ranks last in reading growth as US faces ‘learning recession,’ report finds

florida schools cell phone ban

Florida ranked last among 35 states analyzed for academic growth in reading, according to a new report from researchers at Harvard University, Stanford University and Dartmouth College that warns the United States is in the midst of a nationwide “learning recession.”

The report, titled Education Scorecard 2026 and published May 13, examined academic performance among students in grades three through eight using state assessment data.

Researchers found that reading and math scores declined in 83% of school districts nationwide over the past decade, according to reporting by NBC Miami.

Florida recorded the steepest reading decline among all states included in the study. Researchers said the average student in the state is now more than 0.7 grade equivalents behind 2019 reading levels.

The report also found that Florida’s eighth-grade reading ranking fell sharply from 25th place in 2017 to 43rd place in 2024, based on data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

Nationally, eighth-grade reading performance in 2025 was found to be comparable to levels last seen in 1990.

In mathematics, Florida ranked 24th out of 38 states analyzed, placing it near the middle of the pack and showing less severe declines than in reading achievement.

Researchers said the “learning recession” began around 2013, years before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted classrooms across the country. However, they noted that the pandemic accelerated the downward trend.

The report cited several contributing factors, including increased smartphone and social media use among children, lingering pandemic-related impacts, reduced academic accountability following the expiration of the No Child Left Behind Act, and growing dependence on technology in classrooms.

The accountability framework established under No Child Left Behind was replaced in 2015 by the Every Student Succeeds Act.

Researchers warned that the continued decline in literacy and math achievement could have long-term consequences for educational attainment and workforce readiness across the country.

Bahamian survivor of Florida plane crash arrested in US cocaine importation probe

An Air Force plane saved all of the passengers in the crash Tuesday, officials said in a news release. (via U.S. Air Force Reserve Command) (via U.S. Air Force Reserve Command)

One of the survivors of a plane crash off the coast of Florida has been arrested in a federal drug investigation alleging ties to an international cocaine trafficking conspiracy involving the Bahamas and Colombia.

According to a federal criminal complaint, Jonathan Gardiner is facing a charge of conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States.

Gardiner was among 11 people who survived last Tuesday’s crash involving a Beechcraft 300 King Air aircraft that went down in waters off Florida’s coast after suffering engine failure.

Authorities said the aircraft had departed from Marsh Harbour on the island of Great Abaco and was headed to Grand Bahama International Airport when the pilot ditched the plane roughly 50 miles off Vero Beach.

The pilot successfully evacuated all 10 passengers onto a yellow life raft. Three people sustained minor injuries.

According to investigators, Gardiner was found carrying three cellular phones and a cross-body bag containing approximately $30,000 in Bahamian currency when he was re-secured by authorities following the rescue.

The complaint alleges the money was labeled with the handwritten name of a Bahamian politician allegedly connected to a planned cocaine shipment from Colombia through the Bahamas in November 2024 involving between 900 and 1,000 kilograms of cocaine.

Federal authorities also allege that during a recorded 2024 meeting, the politician and a charged Colombian drug trafficker discussed arrangements for moving “a large amount” of cocaine from Colombia through the Bahamas.

The complaint identifies Gardiner by the alias “player” and alleges he has been involved in the conspiracy since at least 2023.

Authorities claim Gardiner acted as a cocaine supplier for a Georgia-based drug trafficking organization named in a 2024 federal indictment involving approximately 14 individuals charged with narcotics offenses.

Investigators allege that in February 2023, Gardiner supplied a multi-kilogram cocaine shipment from the Bahamas to Miami, where it was received by members of the organization later named in the indictment.

Court records also show Gardiner was previously convicted in 2006 on federal narcotics and money laundering charges and sentenced to approximately 18 years in prison. He was deported to the Bahamas in 2014 after serving part of his sentence.

All 11 survivors of the crash were rescued after spending about five hours stranded at sea.

The United States Coast Guard said it received an emergency locator transmitter signal from the aircraft around 11 a.m. Tuesday. An airborne United States Air Force combat helicopter crew conducting a training exercise was redirected to assist in the rescue operation.

Survivors were later transported to Melbourne Orlando International Airport for medical evaluation and were reported to be in stable condition.

“We thought no one would have saw us. But I thank God for the U.S. Marine. They saw us, and they save us,” survivor Olympia Outten said during a Thursday news conference.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it is investigating the crash.

Miami airport to launch first US airport-wide digital monitoring hub by 2027

Miami International Airport

Miami International Airport is set to become home to the first airport-wide digital monitoring hub of its kind in the United States under a major modernization initiative announced by Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and airport officials.

The new Airport Operations Center and Digital Monitoring Hub, expected to open in 2027, will serve as a centralized operations and emergency response facility designed to enhance airport security, safety awareness and operational oversight across the airport.

According to officials, the $33-million facility will span 13,254 square feet and feature advanced technology, including artificial intelligence-powered long-range pan-tilt-zoom cameras, real-time digital tower systems and a large high-definition integrated panoramic video wall.

The system will provide 360-degree visibility of MIA’s airside, landside and terminal areas, allowing airport personnel to monitor activity across the airport in real time.

County officials said the center is intended to provide “best-in-class” security and operational awareness capabilities as passenger traffic and infrastructure demands continue to grow at one of the nation’s busiest international airports.

The future operations hub is part of MIA’s broader $14-billion Modernization in Action Plan, also known as the M.I.A. Plan, which aims to modernize airport facilities and improve passenger experience over the coming years.

PAHO secures agreement to reserve pandemic influenza vaccines for Latin America and Caribbean

HPV vaccine now available to Guyanese women up to age 45

The Pan American Health Organization has signed what it described as a landmark agreement with CSL Seqirus to reserve a portion of pandemic influenza vaccine supplies for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean in the event of a future global influenza outbreak.

The agreement, announced Monday in Washington, establishes a mechanism that sets aside a fixed percentage of the company’s global pandemic influenza vaccine production for participating PAHO member states.

Participating countries will be able to access an initial allocation of vaccines during a pandemic emergency.

“This agreement is a direct response to the hard lessons of COVID-19 and a major step forward in strengthening health security and pandemic preparedness across the Americas,” said Jarbas Barbosa, director of PAHO.

“Through our Regional Revolving Funds, countries are joining forces to secure a reserved share of vaccine production, helping protect those at risk when it matters most,” Barbosa added.

Under the arrangement, CSL Seqirus will oversee the development of pandemic influenza vaccines while also supporting technology transfer initiatives based on its experience in influenza research and large-scale vaccine manufacturing.

Part of the production process will take place in Argentina through a collaboration with Sinergium Biotech, a move aimed at strengthening regional manufacturing capacity and improving supply chain resilience.

“This agreement puts pandemic preparedness best practices into action, bringing together reserved doses, regional manufacturing capability, and a long-term public-private commitment,” said David Ross, executive vice president and general manager of CSL Seqirus.

“We’re proud to establish this kind of partnership in Latin America and the Caribbean for the first time,” Ross added.

Alejandro Gil, president and CEO of Sinergium Biotech, said the agreement builds on years of collaboration with PAHO and CSL Seqirus.

“The infrastructure and human resource capacities developed at Sinergium over the past 15 years now enable us to guarantee countries in the region access to quality products to respond to future pandemics,” Gil said.

PAHO said the agreement was finalized following an international competitive procurement process and year-long negotiations. Officials said it is designed to reduce delays in obtaining vaccines during a public health emergency, when global demand and competition for supplies typically intensify.

The organization noted that middle-income countries have historically faced disadvantages in accessing vaccines during global crises. By pooling demand through PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, countries in Latin America and the Caribbean can negotiate collectively and secure more equitable access to supplies.

According to PAHO, vaccine doses will be allocated based on epidemiological evidence and public health risk, with priority given to vulnerable populations.

Barbosa said the agreement marks a major shift in how the region prepares for future pandemics.

“For the first time, countries of the Americas are positioning themselves on more equal footing in a future global health emergency—not as individual markets, but as a region,” he said.

PAHO also warned that preparedness remains critical as avian influenza and other zoonotic diseases continue to emerge globally. The organization noted that influenza viruses remain among the most likely causes of future pandemics.

Jamaica to host CTO Air Connectivity Summit in 2027 amid push for stronger regional airlift

Jamaica Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett with CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper at Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua and Barbuda. Also pictured are Philip Rose, Deputy Director of Tourism (left), and Donovan White, Director of Tourism.

Jamaica will host the second annual Caribbean Tourism Organization Air Connectivity Summit in Kingston on Feb. 23, 2027, as regional tourism leaders intensify efforts to improve air travel across the Caribbean amid ongoing global economic and geopolitical challenges.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett made the announcement Thursday while addressing delegates at the Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua.

“The summit will provide strategic insight for regional planning,” Bartlett said. “Jamaica will use that as a means not only of bringing airline partners together, but also to engage in some cerebration … some thinking around the future of air connectivity in our region, which is so important.”

Bartlett noted the timing of the summit will align closely with the observance of Global Tourism Resilience Day on Feb. 17, an initiative championed by Jamaica and recognized by the United Nations.

The upcoming summit builds on momentum from the inaugural CTO Air Connectivity Summit, which was held on Feb. 24, 2026, in Hamilton. That gathering brought together tourism ministers, airline executives, airport officials and other stakeholders to tackle longstanding regional aviation issues, including limited seat capacity, high taxes and fees, and weak intra-Caribbean connectivity.

In closing remarks at the Bermuda summit, Rosa Harris, chair of the CTO Airlift Committee and director of tourism for the Cayman Islands, described air connectivity as “our oxygen” and “an economic lifeline” for Caribbean nations.

“If we can’t get off the island, we can’t develop business, we can’t feed our people,” Harris said.

She pointed to two key achievements from the summit: the completion of the CTO Airlift Study by aviation consultancy ASM and the successful staging of the first connectivity summit.

According to Harris, the study revealed continued passenger growth but also identified major capacity gaps in Europe and South America, particularly in markets such as Italy, Argentina, Chile and Brazil, which were highlighted as having strong potential for new direct air services to the Caribbean.

Regional tourism officials were urged to develop stronger business cases for airlines, reduce dependence on high taxes and airport fees, optimize current airport infrastructure and expand collaborative marketing efforts to support new routes.

“Competition is our fragmentation — we must expand our collective marketing power,” Harris quoted Grisha Heyliger-Marten, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism for Sint Maarten.

Participants also called for greater collaboration among ministries responsible for tourism, finance and immigration, as well as more interline agreements and better coordination of hotel room supply with airline seat capacity.

The Bermuda summit additionally resulted in a memorandum of understanding between the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean aimed at strengthening aviation-tourism cooperation across the region.

Dona Regis-Prosper, secretary-general and CEO of the CTO, said maintaining momentum will be critical heading into the 2027 summit.

“Hosting the 2027 summit in Jamaica will allow us to translate the insights from Bermuda into concrete actions — forging new partnerships, addressing persistent challenges in airlift and strengthening the One Caribbean vision for resilient, connected growth,” she said.

Regis-Prosper is expected to travel to Jamaica soon to meet with Donovan White to advance planning for the summit, which will focus on route development strategies, infrastructure optimization, expanded interline agreements and diversifying source markets.

The renewed push for stronger airlift comes as Caribbean destinations seek to navigate geopolitical uncertainty while capitalizing on strong tourism growth from South America. The region recorded a 23.7% increase in arrivals from South America in 2025, reaching 2.4 million visits.

Separately, Saint Lucia will host the inaugural CTO Latin American Market Summit on May 5-6, 2027, with a major focus on improving air connectivity to the rapidly expanding Latin American market.

Florida fugitive wanted in Colorado vehicle theft case arrested at Miami hospital

A Florida man wanted in Colorado in connection with the theft of a deployed U.S. serviceman’s vehicle and belongings was arrested early Saturday in Miami-Dade County after deputies tracked him down at a hospital, authorities said.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, deputies took 28-year-old Andrew Lee Jansen into custody at approximately 3:42 a.m. on May 16.

Investigators said Jansen was wanted by the Aurora Police Department in connection with the theft of a vehicle and personal belongings belonging to a U.S. serviceman from Aurora, Colorado, who is currently deployed overseas. Authorities said the serviceman had hired Jansen to care for his dog while away.

During the investigation, police reportedly discovered the dog deceased inside the stolen vehicle.

Miami-Dade deputies initially responded to a residence near Southwest 152 Street to assist Miami-Dade Fire Rescue during a medical call involving Jansen’s father. Authorities said Jansen interfered with rescue personnel and fled the residence before deputies could detain him.

After canvassing the area, deputies issued a “be on the lookout” alert with Jansen’s description to officers nearby. An off-duty deputy working at Jackson South Medical Center later identified and apprehended Jansen when he arrived at the hospital to visit his father, who had been transported there by fire rescue personnel.

Jansen was taken to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he remains pending extradition to Colorado.

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