St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr Godwin Friday has unveiled a EC$1.9 billion national budget for 2026, assuring citizens that no new taxes will be introduced despite increased government spending.
Presenting the fiscal plan in Parliament, Friday said the expanded budget will be financed through improved revenue collection, concessional loans and grants, alongside the re-establishment of a Fiscal Responsibility Framework aimed at reducing deficits and gradually lowering public debt to the Eastern Caribbean benchmark of 60 percent of GDP by 2035.
The 2026 Estimates project current revenue at EC$906.9 million, while the capital programme is set to rise to EC$577.3 million. The increased allocations are expected to support infrastructure development, housing recovery and climate-resilient projects. By comparison, current revenue in 2025 stood at EC$855.6 million and the capital programme was EC$510 million.
Friday said the budget is designed to stabilise public finances while protecting households from additional financial strain. Among the relief measures announced is a doubling of Public Assistance to EC$500 per month, along with tax-free cost-of-living support for public sector employees. Additional funding will also be directed to healthcare, education and vocational training to strengthen human capital and reduce poverty.
“We will not mortgage our children’s future for our present benefit,” Friday told lawmakers. “Fiscal discipline is not an end in itself; it is the means by which we create the space to invest, the confidence to grow, and the conditions to employ.”
The nearly EC$200 million increase over last year’s budget will be managed without new taxes through strengthened compliance measures, modernised property tax administration, rationalised import concessions and targeted expenditure controls. These controls are intended to prioritise capital investment while avoiding significant growth in recurrent spending.
Government officials say the absence of new taxes is expected to shield Vincentians from additional financial pressures, while expanded social support will help ease cost-of-living concerns. Increased capital investment is also projected to stimulate construction, tourism and job creation, with upgrades to airports, ports and housing aimed at strengthening competitiveness and resilience to natural disasters.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has received the Order of Merit Fort Sao Joaquim, the highest of honours of the Brazilian State of Roraima
The Government of Roraima has conferred its highest honour, the Order of Merit Fort São Joaquim, on Guyana’s President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, recognising his leadership in strengthening economic relations between Guyana and the northern Brazilian state.
President Ali received the award on February 9 in Boa Vista, Roraima’s capital, during a ceremony hosted by Governor Antonio Denarium. The distinction has been awarded to only 20 individuals for significant contributions to Brazil.
In a statement shared on the president’s official social media platforms, Ali reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly through Roraima, which shares a border with Guyana’s Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo).
“This relationship has been growing from strength to strength… we are now looking to remove all the bureaucracies, all the bottlenecks to create a seamless relationship, expand trade and continue the wonderful relationship,” Ali said in remarks captured in a video posted by Governor Denarium.
Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and members of the private sector were also in attendance at the ceremony.
Over the past five years, Ali has led several high-level engagements with Brazil aimed at expanding economic and infrastructure cooperation. In 2024, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva visited Georgetown, where discussions centred on regional integration, infrastructure development and energy collaboration.
Roraima has emerged as one of Guyana’s key trading partners, supported by government investments in cross-border connectivity and economic cooperation in recent years.
Guesswork isn’t good enough when demand rises and you carry the weight of every production target and shipment deadline. You need systems that increase output without putting uptime at risk.
Robotics offers real leverage, yet technology alone doesn’t solve operational pressure. You have to integrate it into real production lines and compliance requirements.
When you scale, you protect your margins and the future of your business. Robotics can support that growth if you approach it with discipline and clarity.
Start From Bottlenecks
Before you purchase a robotic arm or automated cell, walk your floor and conduct a bottleneck analysis. This could involve:
Measuring cycle times at each station
Tracking rework rates
Asking supervisors where operators feel rushed or materials stack up
For example, you may find that manual palletizing at the end of the line limits throughput, even though upstream machines run below capacity. In that case, adding a palletizing robot increases overall output without touching the rest of the line. A targeted approach protects capital and delivers faster payback.
Integrate Reliable Industrial Controls
As you scale, robotics must communicate seamlessly with your existing PLCs, HMIs and safety circuits. Investing in reliable industrial controls from trusted manufacturers will help you set a solid foundation for your automation strategy. If your control architecture can’t handle additional I/O or network traffic, you invite faults and unplanned downtime.
For instance, confirm that your PLC has available inputs and outputs to support new sensors and actuators. Verify that your control panels meet environmental demands such as heat and vibration. Preparations like these will reduce commissioning delays and prevent costly troubleshooting during peak production.
Build For Compliance
Growth increases scrutiny. When you add robotics, you must plan for compliance with UL, NEC and OSHA robotics safety standards from day one. Safety measures like emergency stops and lockout procedures can’t be afterthoughts.
Work with your engineering team to map electrical loads and confirm proper circuit protection. Ensure your safety interlocks stop motion immediately when operators access restricted zones. Although compliance requires upfront effort, this discipline protects your people and shields your business from penalties and shutdowns.
Scale With Control and Confidence
Robotics supports growth if you treat it as a strategic tool rather than a quick fix. By implementing these measures, you can create capacity without sacrificing stability. Let every automation decision strengthen the foundation you’ve already built.
Jamaica’s quest to advance into Davis Cup Group Two ended in heartbreak on Sunday at the Liguanea Club, as Uruguay secured a 3-1 victory in the decisive play-off.
The loss saw the hosts relegated to Group Three, concluding a weekend of fierce competition with a mixture of promise and frustration for the Jamaicans.
With the tie level at 1-1 heading into the final day, the doubles match set the tone for the decisive session. Jamaica’s Daniel Azar and Nicholas Gore started strongly, racing to a 3-0 lead in the first set. However, the Uruguayan pairing of Ariel Behar and Franco Roncadelli mounted a relentless comeback, breaking their opponents three times to surge ahead 5-3 and close out the set 6-4.
The second set offered more hope for Jamaica as Azar and Gore nudged ahead 3-2, but Uruguay’s consistency and composure proved decisive. Behar and Roncadelli dominated the latter stages, taking the set 6-4 and placing Uruguay firmly in control of the tie.
Bicknell battles in thrilling singles
The penultimate reverse singles featured Jamaica’s number one, Blaise Bicknell, against Roncadelli in a gripping three-set encounter. Ranked 463rd in the world, Bicknell pushed the higher-ranked Uruguayan, who sits at 344, to the limit.
Roncadelli claimed the opening set 6-3, but Bicknell rallied with a display of controlled aggression, taking the second set 7-5 to keep Jamaica’s hopes alive. The final set, however, belonged to Roncadelli. Using his big serve and swift court movement, the Uruguayan dominated the key points to seal the match and the tie for his team.
Bicknell reflected on his performance, acknowledging the disappointment but remaining positive about the team’s efforts.
“I gave it everything I had, but the Uruguayan guys are tough and overall, it was a good match,” he said. “It didn’t go my way, but I have a lot of positives to take from this weekend. Overall, the team played well because we all gave it everything that we had, but we will be back because we are going to put in the work. So whenever we get back on this stage, we are going to show our worth the next time.”
Lessons learned amid defeat
While Jamaica showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the early doubles exchanges and Bicknell’s fighting second set, the weekend exposed the strength and depth of Uruguay’s squad. The disciplined play of Behar and Roncadelli and the composure under pressure in key moments proved decisive.
The defeat is a setback for Jamaican tennis, but the team can take encouragement from their competitiveness and the experience gained. With renewed focus and preparation, Jamaica aims to return stronger in future Davis Cup campaigns.
Australia confirmed their dominance over Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls with a second lopsided victory in as many games, completing the series after a commanding 73-41 triumph on Sunday.
The Diamonds’ back-to-back wins, following Thursday’s 31-goal drubbing, underscored their superiority and left the understrength Sunshine Girls struggling to respond.
Frustration boils over: Garbin struck by elbow
Early in the third quarter, tensions flared when Australian goal shooter Sophie Garbin was struck in the face by a stray elbow, forcing her to the floor. Moments later, she endured further contact in what had become a fiery exchange with Kadie-Ann Dehaney, reigniting their ongoing Super Netball rivalry.
Jamaican defender Roxonna McLean also hit the deck during the skirmish, as the goal circle turned into the focal point of mounting tensions.
Diamonds dominate from the start
Despite the flare-ups, the result was largely settled by halftime. Australia opened a 15-goal lead at the break, racking up 11 gains led by Kiera Austin, Jo Weston, and Sarah Klau, who each contributed three. Jamaica managed just eight goals in the opening term.
While Jamaica’s second-quarter performance showed some improvement, they could not bridge the widening gap. Latanya Wilson again led the Sunshine Girls’ defense, finishing with seven gains, including three intercepts, but the team’s overall effort was overshadowed by Australia’s relentless pressure.
Strategic changes pay off
Coach Stacey Marinkovich rotated her bench for the second consecutive match, changing every position except wing defense Kate Moloney. The move paid dividends as Garbin, who replaced Cara Koenen at the main break, finished with 29 goals, reminding selectors why she has been the starting goal shooter for nearly every game over the past two years.
With the first two games secured, Australia will aim to complete a clean sweep when game three shifts to Melbourne on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Jamaica will look to regroup, regain composure, and find solutions to counter the Diamonds’ high-pressure attack.
Jamaica maintained their perfect start in the 2026 Men’s Under-17 World Cup qualifiers with a resounding 12-0 victory over the Cayman Islands, leaving group rivals, particularly Canada, under mounting pressure in Group G.
The win, secured Sunday in Costa Rica, showcased the attacking prowess and depth of the young Reggae Boyz, with striker Kelvin Brown leading the charge with four goals.
The dominance was apparent from the first minute. Brown fired home the opener almost immediately, signaling Jamaica’s intent. The scoring continued relentlessly: Jahmarie Nolan added the second in the 17th minute, followed closely by Jamone Lyle, who scored a third from the edge of the box.
Brown then struck again in the 44th minute, with Nolan rounding off a scintillating first-half display in stoppage time with his second goal, leaving Jamaica 5-0 ahead at halftime.
Second-half surge extends lead
Jamaica wasted no time building on their first-half dominance. Jaedon Morgan struck three minutes into the second half to make it 6-0. Moments later, an own goal by Cayman’s Williams Kirksey pushed the tally to 7-0, before Lyle added his second in the 58th minute to make it 8-0.
Brown then completed his hat trick with two quickfire strikes in the 72nd and 73rd minutes. Tyraun Bembridge capped the rout with goals in the 76th and 88th minutes, sealing an emphatic 12-0 win for Jamaica.
The victory places Jamaica at the top of Group G with six points and a remarkable goal difference of +15, ahead of second-placed Canada, who also have six points but a goal difference of +7 following a 5-1 win over Aruba.
With such a commanding performance, the Young Reggae Boyz have sent a clear message to the rest of the group: they are serious contenders for qualification to the 2026 Under-17 World Cup.
Heroics of Kelvin Brown and supporting cast
Brown’s four-goal haul highlighted his finishing prowess and composure under pressure. However, the performance was a collective effort, with Nolan, Lyle, Morgan, and Bembridge all contributing to a balanced, high-intensity attack.
The early dominance, quick passing, and clinical finishing suggest Jamaica is peaking at the right time as the qualifiers progress.
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Barbados’ Davis Cup campaign suffered a bitter conclusion this weekend as the team was relegated to Group III following a narrow 3-2 defeat to Bolivia at the Raymond Forde Tennis Centre.
The tie, contested over two days in the World Group II, came down to a tense deciding rubber that highlighted the fine margins of international tennis.
The contest began on Saturday with Bolivia seizing the initiative. Juan Carlos Pradao Angelo delivered a strong performance to defeat Kaipo Marshall 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage.
Barbados quickly responded, however, with Darian King producing a gritty display to level the tie. King overcame Bolivia’s Murkel Dellien in a marathon three-set battle, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, keeping Barbados’ hopes alive.
Doubles decider shifts momentum
Sunday’s doubles rubber saw Bolivia edge ahead once more. The pairing of Borias Arias and Dellien narrowly defeated King and Stephen Slocombe 6-3, 2-6, 6-3. Despite the setback, Darian King again demonstrated his leadership and resilience, downing Angelo in straight sets, 7-5, 6-1, to bring the overall tie level at 2-2.
The tie ultimately hinged on the final singles match: Kaipo Marshall versus Murkel Dellien. In a high-stakes contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Dellien emerged victorious, winning 7-6, 7-6. The win secured Bolivia’s place in World Group II and sent Barbados tumbling into Group III for the next cycle.
The result triggered jubilant celebrations from the Bolivian contingent, while Barbados was left to reflect on a tie decided by the slimmest of margins.
Lessons and looking ahead
Although Barbados fought valiantly throughout the tie, the narrow defeats in doubles and the decider highlighted the challenges of competing at the World Group II level. The team will now regroup in Group III with a focus on rebuilding and aiming for promotion in the next Davis Cup cycle.
Darian King’s heroics, in particular, underscored his status as a key figure for Barbados, even amid a heartbreaking outcome.
MUMBAI, India — West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder etched his name into cricket history on Saturday, becoming the first West Indian to claim 100 wickets in all three international formats.
The 34-year-old Barbadian reached the milestone by dismissing Scotland captain Richie Berrington at deep point during the West Indies’ 35-run victory in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup opener.
Holder now boasts 162 wickets in 69 Tests, 159 wickets in 138 ODIs, and 101 T20I wickets in 90 matches, a testament to his longevity, adaptability, and consistent excellence across formats.
“I never dreamed of this moment”
In a candid interview on Monday, Holder reflected on the significance of the achievement, acknowledging both his personal satisfaction and the role of his teammates in helping him reach the milestone.
“For me personally, 100 wickets in this format is a blessing to be fair. I guess at the start of my career I wouldn’t have imagined this moment, being the first to take 100 wickets in each format of the game, but I take it as it comes,” Holder said.
“I’m very, very happy and I thank my teammates over the years, and hopefully I can get a few more.”
Victory first, milestone second
Despite his historic feat, Holder emphasized that team success came first, underscoring the importance of securing two points in the opening game.
“First and foremost, to get two points on the board was key. It was a very crucial game for us to start the campaign really well. Credit to the boys, we played a really good game,” he said.
Holder highlighted the resilience of the team during critical phases.
“I think we were challenged at certain stages of the game, and we came through in those tough situations, which are strong signs for the team going forward,” he noted.
Eyes on England, focus on consistency
With a pivotal Group C clash against England set for Wednesday, Holder stressed that consistency would be crucial as the tournament progresses.
“I think we ticked a lot of boxes in the first game. We keep challenging ourselves in each department and we all know we can improve as we go on in this tournament,” he said.
The all-rounder singled out fielding as an area needing urgent improvement.
“But for me, just be consistent; consistent with our attitude, consistent with our bowling and also consistent with batting as well. We’ve definitely got to touch up in the field; we’ve been letting ourselves down and dropping a few chances so that’s an area we can definitely improve on as well too,” Holder explained.
“All in all, I’m really happy with how we started, and I just think for us it’s really important to continue to build.”
West Indies left-arm spinner Vitel Lawes has emerged as one of the standout performers of the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup, earning selection to the tournament’s Team of the Tournament following a series of impactful displays with ball and bat.
The 18-year-old Jamaican was the sole West Indies representative in the elite 12-member squad, a distinction that underlined both his consistency and his influence across the competition.
Consistency through every phase
Despite the West Indies’ campaign ending at the Super Six stage, Lawes’ performances remained a constant bright spot. Across five matches, he claimed 10 wickets at an average of 22, leading his team’s bowling attack and repeatedly providing breakthroughs in key moments.
His ability to deliver control, variation, and composure against top-level youth opposition set him apart in a tightly contested tournament.
Lawes announced his arrival in emphatic fashion in the West Indies’ opening match against Tanzania. Bowling with precision and discipline, he returned figures of three for 23 from six overs, playing a central role in a comfortable five-wicket victory.
The performance immediately positioned him as a bowler to watch and set the tone for the remainder of his campaign.
Leading the attack versus Afghanistan
In the following encounter against Afghanistan, Lawes once again carried the bowling load for the West Indies. He finished as the team’s most effective bowler, collecting three wickets for 48 runs from 10 overs in a demanding spell that tested both stamina and skill.
Lawes’ contributions were not limited to his left-arm spin. In the opening Super Six match against Ireland, he delivered a valuable all-round effort, scoring an unbeaten 18 off 10 balls to add late momentum to the innings before returning to claim two crucial wickets with the ball.
The performance highlighted his growing versatility and ability to impact matches in multiple disciplines.
Elite company in the team of the tournament
Lawes joins a distinguished group of young internationals in the ICC’s Team of the Tournament. India led the selections with three players, joined by three from England and two from Afghanistan.
England’s Thomas Rew, who amassed 330 runs at an average of exactly 66, was named captain of the side.
Thomas Rew (England, captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (India), Viran Chamuditha (Sri Lanka), Faisal Khan Shinozada (Afghanistan), Oliver Peake (Australia), Ben Mayes (England), Kanishk Chouhan (India), Nooristani Omarzai (Afghanistan), Vitel Lawes (West Indies), Ali Raza (Pakistan), Manny Lumsden (England), Henil Patel (India).
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Despite significant financial and logistical hurdles, the Jamaica Basketball Association (JBA) remains committed to staging the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers on home soil, pressing ahead with preparations as the national senior men’s team continues its historic qualification campaign.
The JamRockers are set to resume their Americas Qualifiers journey in Group B with back-to-back fixtures against the Bahamas on February 26 and Canada on March 1, both scheduled for the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston.
Funding gap, talks ongoing
According to the Jamaica Observer, the JBA has not yet secured the full J$44 million required to host the two qualifiers. However, association officials are reportedly in advanced discussions aimed at finalizing the necessary funding in time for the upcoming matches.
The financial push comes amid heightened optimism around the team’s performances and a growing belief that Jamaica can finally bring elite international basketball back to its home court.
Lessons from a missed hosting opportunity
Jamaica’s determination to host follows a setback earlier in the campaign. The country was forced to relinquish hosting duties for its opening qualifier against Puerto Rico in November after a failed inspection by world governing body FIBA two months earlier.
Two venues, the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston and the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, were deemed non-compliant with mandatory standards. Among the key deficiencies were the lack of an internationally approved scoreboard and the need for upgraded basketball hoops.
Winning away, believing at home
As a result, Jamaica played its first two “home” fixtures in San Juan. The change of venue did little to derail the team’s momentum, however, as the JamRockers produced consecutive victories over Puerto Rico, edging their hosts 92-90 and 97-92.
Those back-to-back wins propelled Jamaica to joint top of Group B and injected renewed belief into the campaign, both on the court and within the association’s administrative ranks.
With critical fixtures looming and funding efforts intensifying, the coming weeks represent a decisive phase for the JBA’s hosting ambitions. Successfully staging the qualifiers would mark a major step forward for Jamaican basketball infrastructure and provide a powerful boost to a team chasing its first-ever FIBA World Cup appearance.
KOLKATA, India — West Indies captain Shai Hope has insisted that his team’s uneven form throughout 2026 will not dictate their fate at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, stressing that the global tournament represents a clean slate and a renewed opportunity.
The West Indies launched their bid for an unprecedented third T20 World Cup title with a convincing 35-run victory over Scotland at Eden Gardens on Saturday, a performance that immediately shifted focus away from recent disappointments and toward renewed belief.
Match-winning performances set the tone
The opening success was built on standout contributions from Shimron Hetmyer and Romario Shepherd. Hetmyer anchored the innings with a fluent 64, while Shepherd produced a devastating spell with the ball, claiming five wickets for 20 runs to dismantle the Scottish chase.
The win, however, was just the Caribbean side’s third T20 international victory in eight matches this year, including a warm-up fixture against Afghanistan. It followed bilateral series defeats to Afghanistan and South Africa last month, as well as a 3-1 T20I series loss to New Zealand in December.
“This is a World Cup we’re playing”
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Hope acknowledged the team’s recent struggles but emphasized that the World Cup demands a different mindset.
“That is my focus here today. We started the tournament; this is a World Cup we’re playing,” Hope said. “Yes, you have to look at what happened in the past, but our main focus was to start the tournament well and continue the momentum for as long as we can and see how deep we can go in the tournament, and hopefully, at the end, we can lift the trophy again similarly to what the guys did back in 2016.”
Hope was equally candid about the challenges the team has faced.
“We can’t hide from the truth. We haven’t had the success that we would have liked in the last few bilateral series, but again, the main focus is here on this World Cup. Put the past in the past, and let’s make sure that we do the business here in India,” he said.
Familiar ground, powerful memories
Eden Gardens holds special significance for West Indies cricket, having been the venue where they secured their second T20 World Cup title in 2016 with a dramatic four-wicket victory over England.
Hope said beginning the current campaign at the same historic ground provided an added psychological lift, particularly with members of the 2016 triumph still embedded within the setup.
Experience adds confidence in the dressing room
Head coach Daren Sammy, along with players Johnson Charles and Jason Holder, were all part of the 2016 championship team, and Hope believes their presence continues to resonate within the squad.
“If we were placed at a different venue, the same mindset would have applied, the same plans, maybe slightly different depending on the type of surfaces that you’re playing on,” Hope explained.
“But we have a few members in our squad who have been a part of that, from the coach to a couple players in Johnson Charles and Jason Holder, so that does instil some extra confidence in the dressing room and a bit of experience as well.”
Hope added that lived experience of winning on the biggest stage can be invaluable.
“Being in that position, knowing what it feels like to lift the trophy, just trying to share that amongst the group, I’m sure the guys are really ready to go, but it’s a good feeling to have two guys who’ve been there and done that in a sense.”
LOS ANGELES — Julien Alfred wasted no time reminding the athletics world why she sits atop sprinting’s elite.
The reigning Olympic 100-meter champion opened her 2026 season in emphatic fashion on Saturday, producing a world-leading performance over 60 meters at the Woo Pig Classic in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Competing at the low-key indoor meet, Alfred clocked 7.00 seconds in the final, a time that immediately set the benchmark for the global indoor season.
From controlled heat to explosive final
The 24-year-old St. Lucian showed measured efficiency in her opening race, easing through her heat in 7.04 seconds before unleashing her trademark acceleration when it mattered most.
In the final, Alfred surged clear of the field, stopping the clock at 7.00 seconds and stamping her authority on the early stages of the indoor campaign.
Now training in Texas, Alfred already boasts one of the most accomplished sprint résumés of her generation. She is the reigning world indoor 60-meter champion, having claimed gold in Glasgow in 2024, and remains the second-fastest woman in history over the distance, courtesy of her 6.94-second run in 2023.
Her Fayetteville performance further underscores her consistency at the highest level of the sport.
Olympic gold and global podiums
Alfred’s indoor season opener comes on the heels of a remarkable run of international success. She captured Olympic gold in the 100 meters at the Paris Games in 2024 and added a World Championship bronze medal last year in Tokyo, cementing her status as a fixture on the global podium.
Eyes turning toward Torun
Saturday’s performance also served as an early statement of intent ahead of the season’s major indoor objective. The 2026 World Indoor Championships are scheduled for March 20-22 in Torun, Poland, where Alfred is expected to be a central figure in the sprint events.
With her season now underway and the world lead already secured, Alfred appears poised to shape the narrative of the indoor sprint season once again.
A jubilant Karen Francis (second right), principal of Westwood High School, accepts a cheque for J$1.1 million toward post–Hurricane Melissa rebuilding efforts. Sharing the moment are Flo Darby (left), chairperson of the Ardenne Alumni Foundation, Esther Tyson (second left), event coordinator, and Dr. Jacqueline Pinto, acting principal of Ardenne High School.
The Ardenne Alumni Foundation’s Optima 5K Walk/Run continues its upward trajectory, with the third staging of the event surpassing expectations and solidifying its place as a growing fixture on the local road-racing calendar.
Held on Sunday, February 1, the event exceeded its ambitious target of 1,000 registrations, a milestone that organizers described as a defining moment in the initiative’s short but impactful history.
On the course, defending champion Garfield Gordon once again proved his consistency, retaining the men’s title, while newcomer Dandi Williams announced herself in emphatic fashion by capturing the women’s crown in her first appearance.
“Every year it gets bigger and bigger”
Flo Darby, chairperson of the Ardenne Alumni Foundation, reflected with pride on the expanding reach of the event and the groundswell of community support.
“It was amazing. We got a lot of people, a lot of support. We have grown! Every year it gets bigger and bigger, and so this year I was so delighted at the number of persons who came out,” Darby said.
That growth, she emphasized, is translating directly into long-term development for the school.
Wellness Center plans approved and handed over
In a moment that symbolized the deeper purpose behind the Optima 5K, Darby formally handed over the approved plans for Ardenne High School’s proposed wellness center to the institution’s acting principal.
“We got the approval on Friday from the KSAMC, and it was such a delight. We have been waiting a long time for it because, as you know, schools have special particulars that they have to deal with and so we had to make sure that everything was in place. We have now done it and now we have our plan approved,” she said, beaming.
Construction to begin this school year
Dr. Jacqueline Pinto, acting principal of Ardenne High School, praised the level of participation and confirmed that the project is now poised to move from planning to execution.
“For this year, the Optima 5K, I am very, very grateful for the attendance of the members who participated. It is much more than we had last year, we are aware that over 1,000 persons have registered and we should have had about 800 here,” Pinto noted.
She added that construction is expected to begin within the current academic year, pending board approval.
“We got the plans for the construction of our wellness center, it was presented by the chairperson of the Ardenne Foundation to the school and we will be, with board approval, commencing the construction in this school year. We are grateful for all the financial and human resources support that we can get because this wellness center will be a benefit to the children of Jamaica, not only Ardenne High School and the staff members… because we are going to have a wellness center that is state of the art and the best in the Caribbean that can be a model for other educational institutions,” she said.
Olympian Chris Taylor (left) presents the winning trophy and prizes to men’s champion Garfield Gordon at the Ardenne Alumni Foundation’s Optima 5K Run on Sunday at the school campus.
Extending support beyond Ardenne
The reach of the Optima 5K extended well beyond Ardenne High School, with Westwood High School emerging as a major beneficiary. Principal Karen Francis expressed heartfelt appreciation after receiving a donation of J$1.1 million to assist with post-hurricane Melissa recovery efforts.
“I am truly elated as Ardenne Foundation has donated to us $1.1m for our post-hurricane Mellisa relief efforts. We are truly thankful to the foundation and through the instrumentality of Mrs. Esther Tyson, former principal, for this donation. This will definitely be used to assist us in our rebuilding efforts and we are truly, truly grateful. We give God thanks, and we are happy for this contribution to our school,” Francis said.
A race built on energy and execution
Race Director Alfred Francis of Running Events Jamaica pointed to execution and atmosphere as key drivers of the event’s continued growth.
“We have seen significant growth with this event, and I know that it will continue to grow. The energy that’s here is just all positive and it has turned out to be a wonderful morning. That’s the marketing strategy. Execute a well-done race and that markets itself,” he said.
He added, “I know a lot of persons who came here this morning had a good time, the weather was right for running and the energy was good in itself, here at Ardenne.”
Champions reflect on challenge and cause
For Garfield Gordon, successfully defending his title came with its own set of challenges.
“This year I was cautious and the breeze made the route a bit harder because it was heavy, but I feel good that I got the win. The main aim was to come out and defend the title, so I am feeling really good. The cause is going towards wellness, so it’s a good cause,” he said.
Women’s champion Dandi Williams, meanwhile, embraced both the terrain and the conditions.
“I love the route, I love the uphill challenge, I think the uphill was at the right time and so the ending was good as well because I was coming down so it was a good race overall. I didn’t mind the wind to be honest,” she said.
Williams also encouraged broader participation in future editions.
“I would definitely recommend this 5K, especially for the cause, because we are all about rebuilding the West. Definitely, I would encourage other people to support it next year.”
Olympian Chris Taylor (left) presents the winning trophy and prizes to women’s champion Dandi Williams at the Ardenne Alumni Foundation’s Optima 5K Run on Sunday at the school campus.
Olympians lend star power and support
The event also benefited from the presence of several Jamaican Olympians, including Ardenne alumnus Brandon Simpson.
“I think it was an awesome turnout, every year it seems to be growing exponentially, we hope that this can continue. As long as we can help and support both Westwood (High) and the students of Ardenne High, coming up, I think it’s an awesome, awesome venture,” Simpson said.
Fellow Olympian Maurice Smith echoed that sentiment, highlighting the wider community impact.
“The purpose of the initiative is to build a wellness center and support Westwood (High) and I think a wellness center is not just for one place, it can support a whole community. Calabar and Ardenne are doing things together as well… so I really like the initiative,” he said.
Olympian Chris Taylor, another Calabar standout, was also in attendance, lending his support to the Optima 5K’s growing mission.
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck off Jamaica’s coast early Tuesday morning, according to the Earthquake Unit at UWI Mona, with shaking felt across the island.
The quake occurred at approximately 3:18 a.m. local time and was centered offshore, about 84.9 kilometres (52.8 miles) northeast of Manchioneal and 139.4 kilometres (86.6 miles) east of Kingston. It struck at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles).
There was no indication of a tsunami threat. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC), which monitors the Caribbean region, did not issue any alerts following the earthquake.
Residents across Jamaica reported feeling the tremor, with many saying it woke them from sleep. Several accounts described windows rattling and the shaking lasting for a few seconds.
“That earthquake just shook me out of my sleep. What the heck?” one resident wrote on social media.
Reggae singer Lila Iké also posted online that she felt “the worst earthquake.”
Jamaica sits along the boundary between the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates and experiences regular seismic activity, including occasional moderate to strong earthquakes.
UN Cuba UN Resident Coordinator Francisco Pichón speaks with civil defence authorities in Santiago de Cuba.
The United Nations has warned of a potential humanitarian “collapse” in Cuba as the country faces severe fuel shortages amid U.S. pressure to block oil shipments. The United States has threatened tariffs on any nation supplying oil to Cuba, compounding the effects of decades-long trade restrictions and recent events in Venezuela.
“I can tell you that the Secretary-General is extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in Cuba, which will worsen, and if not collapse, if its oil needs go unmet,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Wednesday. He noted that the General Assembly has called for an end to the U.S. embargo for more than 30 years and urged “all parties to pursue dialogue and respect for international law.”
The fuel crisis has pushed up food prices, caused severe shortages, and led to rolling blackouts nationwide. Francisco Pichon, the UN’s top official in Cuba, described the situation as “a combination of emotions…a mix of resilience, but also grief, sorrow and indignation, and some concern about the regional developments.”
Pichon pointed to Venezuela, where 32 Cubans were killed on January 3 during a U.S. operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, as a factor intensifying regional tensions. “The last two years have been quite tough,” he said, stressing that urgent changes are needed to sustain Cuba’s social model “in the midst of the severe economic, financial and trade sanctions.”
Even amid these challenges, the UN continues to support Cuba through long-term programs. “The energy transition is a major priority due to reduced access to fuel and infrastructure challenges,” Pichon said, adding that investment bottlenecks remain a significant hurdle.
The UN’s engagement includes institutional reforms, economic transformation, disaster risk management, and social protection. During Hurricane Melissa in October 2025, the UN pre-positioned supplies through the Central Emergency Response Fund, enabling aid to more than 2.2 million people and preventing direct loss of life.
“All of this is happening in the context of the U.S. embargo against Cuba,” Pichon noted. He emphasized the UN’s guiding principles: “To be present. To support. To act based on cooperation, respected for international law, and the UN values.”
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has praised China for its respectful and cooperative relationship with Antigua and Barbuda, saying powerful nations, including the United States, could learn from the Asian country’s approach to smaller, vulnerable states.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse, on Sunday night, Browne highlighted the longstanding ties between the two nations, noting that China has never imposed demands that are not in Antigua and Barbuda’s self-interest. He cited visa-free travel for Antiguans and Barbudans to China and the nearly 300 citizens who have traveled to the country to engage in cultural exchanges.
“I think this is an example of how powerful countries should treat small, vulnerable countries. China does not have any restrictions on Antigua and Barbuda, not even visa restrictions. China does not have any sanctions on Antigua and Barbuda, and I think this is how small and large countries should cooperate,” Browne said.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of maintaining the country’s independent foreign policy amid shifting international dynamics. “What happens if we choose sides and then the parties become friends again? We would be left out in the cold,” he said, reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s mantra: “Friends of all, enemies of none.”
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams also praised the enduring friendship between the two nations, noting cooperation across infrastructure, education, health, and culture. Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene described the partnership as a bridge connecting citizens across the Pacific and a catalyst for social and economic progress.
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Wei highlighted recent achievements, including participation in Carnival, agricultural initiatives, the Booby Alley Housing Project, and nearly 300 Antiguans and Barbudans visiting China for training. Li Yucheng, President of the Chinese Association of Antigua and Barbuda, emphasized the country’s tangible developments, including the Big Creek Bridge, the Multi-Purpose Cultural Centre, the new terminal at VC Bird International Airport, and recent improvements at St. John’s Harbour.
The ceremony underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with China while maintaining a balanced approach to international relations.
A Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) deputy was taken to the hospital with minor injuries after a hit-and-run crash early Monday morning near an adult entertainment club in West Park. Authorities later apprehended the suspect.
BSO units responded to the scene along Hallandale Beach Boulevard near Southwest 58th Avenue just after 3 a.m. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Mervin Coffy, reportedly pulled a black Cadillac Escalade out of the Playhouse Gentlemen’s Club parking lot at high speed, lost control, and collided with the deputy’s patrol vehicle. Investigators said the motorist then backed into the cruiser a second time before attempting to flee.
Radio transmissions from first responders confirmed the deputy would be transported with minor injuries. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Authorities caught up with Coffy after his Escalade became disabled from the damage sustained in the collision. He is facing multiple charges, including fleeing and eluding, reckless driving with injuries, aggravated battery on an officer, and resisting arrest, and remains in Broward Main Jail on no bond.
Airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet, have announced the suspension of flights to Cuba due to a lack of guaranteed aviation fuel at the island’s airports, as the country faces a deepening oil crisis. Cuban officials warn that jet fuel will not be commercially available from February 10 through March 11, affecting commercial air travel and forcing airlines to adjust operations.
Air Canada said it would fly empty planes to repatriate approximately 3,000 customers already in Cuba and cancel seasonal flights to Holguín and Santa Clara for the remainder of the season. Flights to Varadero and Cayo Coco, normally year-round routes, are temporarily suspended with a tentative restart planned for May 1. WestJet confirmed it would wind down winter operations as of February 9, with plans to resume service on April 26.
The fuel shortage is linked to the fact that Cuba has not received an oil shipment since December 2025. The situation intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on January 29 threatening tariffs for countries supplying fuel to Cuba.
“I find that the policies, practices, and actions of the Government of Cuba constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and foreign policy of the United States,” read the order.
Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez described the move as an “international emergency” that poses an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to national security and foreign policy.
Air Canada noted that its decision followed advisories issued by governments (NOTAMs) regarding the unreliability of fuel supplies at Cuban airports. The airline said it will tanker in extra fuel and make technical stops on return journeys as needed.
The shortage highlights the growing strain on Cuba’s energy infrastructure, which has already struggled to meet domestic demand due to reduced oil imports and sanctions, affecting transportation, industry, and daily life on the island.
The Government of Jamaica has refuted an online report claiming that the country turned away a Cuban-registered tanker seeking to purchase Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG).
Cuba is facing a deep fuel and energy crisis driven in large part by the disruption of oil imports, especially after Venezuelan shipments stopped in mid‑December 2025, leaving the island increasingly without the fuel it relies on for electricity and transport.
“The report does not mention any credible source of information to verify its claims. At no time was the Government of Jamaica or any private entity involved in the country’s oil and gas industry contacted to verify the report,” the government said in a statement on Monday, referencing a news article that published the story.
“It is important to note that the country’s sole oil refinery, Petrojam, a 100%-government-owned entity, has never exported LPG,” Minister of Transport and Mining Daryl Vaz said. “Similarly, feedback from our private sector counterparts in the oil and gas sector shows that they also do not export LPG.”
Petrojam remains Jamaica’s largest importer of LPG for industrial, commercial, and household use within the country.
The false report emerged amid social media discussions surrounding new U.S. sanctions on Cuba and claimed that the Cuban LPG tanker Emilia returned empty after Jamaica allegedly declined to load fuel. Minister Vaz emphasized that the report is entirely inaccurate.
“Misinformation during this time might spark unnecessary fear and anxiety,” he said. “The Government of Jamaica continues to remind the public, especially persons on social media, to seek information from credible news sources, including the Jamaica Information Service. Official, verifiable information can also be found via Government of Jamaica websites and social media handles for respective ministers and government departments.”
In a tweet, Minister Vaz reiterated the message, stating:
“It is important to note that the country’s sole oil refinery, Petrojam, a 100%-government-owned entity, has never exported LPG. Similarly, feedback from our private sector counterparts in the oil and gas sector shows that they also do not export LPG. Misinformation during this time might spark unnecessary fear and anxiety. The Government of Jamaica therefore continues to remind the public, especially persons on social media, to seek information from credible news sources, including the Jamaica Information Service.”
As Carnival season approaches, Trilla-G arrives with new music and a story.
The Bouyon hitmaker has released “Congratulations,” a track that carries the familiar energy fans love, but with a deeper emotional core. Inspired by his recent battle with cancer, the song captures reflection and gratitude—a side of the artist rarely seen but deeply felt.
In July 2025, Trilla-G, born Gael Jno Baptiste, was diagnosed with cancer, forcing him to slow down and look inward. Fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty followed—but so did faith.
“There were moments where the weight of it all felt unbearable,” he shared. “But I made a decision that as long as I had life, I had a chance to fight.”
Rather than stepping away from the spotlight, Trilla-G leaned into creativity. He became more intentional about his health, deepened his spiritual life, and used music as a source of strength. That resolve carried him through a demanding year, which saw him continue to perform at events including Virginia and Miami Carnivals, the UberSoca Cruise, and shows in Aruba—all while undergoing treatment.
The year reached a powerful peak with his appearance at Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival, a performance that now feels especially significant. Just one week earlier, he had released his debut album, Take Me As I Am: The Album. The day after WCMF, he left the island to resume medical care.
“When I showed up, it took everything in me,” he admitted. “And when I couldn’t, my body simply wouldn’t allow it.”
Written during this period of reflection, “Congratulations” celebrates survival and perspective. As of February 5, Trilla-G is officially cancer-free, giving the song even greater meaning.
“The song is about gratitude,” he explained. “Grateful to still be here. Grateful for life, for faith, and for the people who stand by you.”
The track blends Trilla-G’s signature Bouyon sound with heartfelt emotion, featuring longtime collaborator Th3rd from the USVI. Production comes from Andel “Fr3EzE” Horsford and Dernell Green, with additional writing by Shane Maloone and Christon Jno Baptiste, and live guitar by Giovannie Green.
Released just days after his final treatment, the official music video quietly signals a new beginning. As Trilla-G heads into Real Mas, “Congratulations” reminds us of the power of simply being here.
Guyana's Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has chosen Guyana to host its flagship State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in October 2026, marking the first time the country will stage the event since its inception.
Scheduled for October 5–9 in Georgetown, the conference will bring together hundreds of Caribbean tourism leaders, international delegates, policymakers, youth representatives, journalists and industry stakeholders. SOTIC serves as the CTO’s principal forum for examining critical issues, sharing innovation and shaping the future direction of Caribbean tourism.
Susan Rodrigues, Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, described the selection as a milestone that reflects growing regional confidence in Guyana’s tourism leadership and its expanding role in regional dialogue.
“This conference is CTO’s premier gathering for Caribbean tourism leaders and attracts hundreds of regional and international delegates, positioning Guyana as a major player in the development of MICE tourism — a specialized, high-value segment of business travel focused on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions,” Rodrigues said.
Hosting SOTIC underscores Guyana’s rapid emergence as a dynamic tourism destination, supported by investments in infrastructure, sustainability and cultural offerings. The decision follows the most recent edition of the conference in Barbados, held under the theme “Reimagining Caribbean Tourism: Research, Relevance and the Road Ahead.”
CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper emphasized the organization’s focus on community-centered tourism experiences under its 2026 theme, One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences, citing Guyana as a destination that exemplifies these priorities. She highlighted the region’s resilience and shared commitment to building an inclusive, future-ready tourism sector, themes expected to feature prominently during the Guyana-hosted conference.
“This event positions Guyana to showcase its unique blend of ecotourism, adventure, cultural heritage and business facilities to a global audience, further elevating its profile within the Caribbean and beyond,” Regis-Prosper added.
Details on registration, programming and venue will be announced through official CTO and Guyana Tourism Authority channels as planning advances.
The City of Lauderhill has been selected to participate in the next phase of the Southern Cities Economic Initiative (SCEI), a program led by the National League of Cities (NLC).
The city received a second “implementation” grant through SCEI’s philanthropic partners and will join 13 other cities across the Southeastern United States to develop strategies aimed at boosting economic mobility and driving long-term growth for residents.
Participation in SCEI will provide Lauderhill with tailored technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, access to data and content experts from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, connections to national funders, and support to leverage longer-term funding. The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta does not provide funding and did not participate in participant selection or grant decisions for SCEI participants.
During the project’s initial planning phase, Lauderhill received a planning grant to support the creation of the Build and Bloom incubator. The funds helped develop a comprehensive business plan and host a community focus group, gathering direct input from residents and entrepreneurs to shape the program’s structure. The new implementation grant will advance the incubator through cohort-based programming, workshops, and one-on-one support, with activities focused on participant recruitment, program delivery, partner collaboration, and outcome tracking to ensure measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
Other cities selected for the initiative include Atlanta, Ga.; Center Point, Ala.; Charlottesville, Va.; Fayetteville, Ark.; Greenville, Miss.; Harrisonburg, Va.; Jackson, Miss.; Jonesboro, Ga.; Little Rock, Ark.; Monroe, La.; Natchitoches, La.; New Orleans, La.; and Thomasville, N.C.
“Lauderhill’s selection to join the Southern Cities Economic Initiative marks a pivotal step in empowering our residents and entrepreneurs with opportunity and growth. By leveraging targeted technical assistance, data-driven strategies, and the Build and Bloom incubator, we are building a pathway to lasting economic mobility and sustainable prosperity for our community,” said Mayor Denise D. Grant.
“The South is a region of remarkable strength, innovation, and resilience, and cities across the region are primed to overcome the barriers of limited job growth, access to capital and affordable housing,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony. “We are pleased to see this select group of 14 cities and work with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta to build stronger, more resilient economies and create opportunities for all residents to thrive.”
Pictured: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, Global Head of Trade Brands, Apple Leisure Group Vacations, Jackie Marks, Director of Tourism, Donovan White and Deputy Director of Tourism, Philip Rose, share a photo moment with a section of the ALG Travel Advisories at a welcome reception at RIU Montego Bay on Saturday January 31, 2026.
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has applauded the 1,000 travel advisors from Apple Leisure Group (ALG) who have signed up to participate in volunteer initiatives across the island, describing the move as a strong show of confidence in the destination and its people.
ALG, a leading North American travel, hospitality and leisure management group, has committed its advisors to community-based projects supporting national recovery efforts. The volunteer engagement forms part of the company’s continued partnership with Jamaica, with advisors contributing time and skills to initiatives aimed at uplifting local communities.
Speaking at a welcome event for ALG at RIU Montego Bay on Saturday, January 31, 2025, Bartlett said the initiative reflects the strength of Jamaica’s relationship with one of its most influential tourism partners.
“The interest from 1,000 ALGV travel advisors to volunteer in Jamaica is an extraordinary show of solidarity and partnership,” said Minister Bartlett. “While not all were able to make this trip, it highlights the global support Jamaica continues to receive. I have committed to hosting these travel advisors over a phased basis as it directly supports our communities and aligns with our broader recovery and resilience strategy for the sector.”
Director of Tourism Donovan White welcomed the initiative, noting its potential impact on both destination advocacy and community development. He said travel advisors play a key role in promoting Jamaica and that direct engagement with local communities would deepen their connection to the destination.
“Travel advisors are among Jamaica’s strongest ambassadors, and when they engage at this level, the impact is profound,” White said. “By volunteering on the ground, these advisors gain an even deeper appreciation for Jamaica’s culture, people and communities.”
According to tourism officials, the volunteer activities are designed to combine community upliftment with tangible benefits, while fostering authentic connections between visiting advisors and local residents.
Deputy Director of Tourism for the Americas Philip Rose emphasized ALG’s importance as a partner within Jamaica’s main source markets. He said the initiative underscores the depth of the relationship and the company’s continued support for the island’s tourism recovery.
“Apple Leisure Group is a critical partner for Jamaica in the Americas, and this initiative reinforces the depth of that relationship,” Rose said. “The enthusiasm shown by these advisors reflects their belief in Jamaica’s recovery.”
Bartlett also highlighted ALG’s longstanding contribution to Jamaica’s tourism industry, pointing to its role in driving visitor arrivals, strengthening destination awareness and supporting recovery-focused initiatives across the sector.
Since February 2, 2026, the Government of Jamaica has rolled out phased, flexible and staggered working hours across the public sector. On paper, it is a simple policy adjustment. In practice, it signals a recognition that the way we work must finally begin to align with the way we live.
Under the new framework, the traditional 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. workday remains intact, but employees of the government may now operate within staggered shifts ranging from as early as 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and as late as 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The initiative is not mandatory for every role, but it is strongly encouraged on a phased basis, with the stated goals of modernizing public services, boosting productivity, improving employee well-being and reducing commuting pressures.
This move follows the 2014 Employment (Flexible Work Arrangements) Act, which laid the legislative groundwork for flexibility but, for many years, remained more aspiration than action. The work crisis during the Covid-19 pandemic spurred it from dormancy, and the act has continued to set the pace regarding remote work possibilities since then, despite widespread returns to office post-pandemic. The current policy suggests that the government is now willing to move from theory to implementation, and that is no small thing.
This shift is particularly noteworthy due to its timing. Just weeks ago, this newspaper published an article linking Jamaica’s worsening traffic crisis to rigid 9–5 schedules and in-office work modalities. It is therefore encouraging to see the government not only acknowledge the problem but also actively attempt to address it. Flexible and staggered work hours will not solve congestion overnight, but they may finally begin to chip away at the daily gridlock that costs the country untold hours, productivity, and patience.
The contrast with much of the local private sector is hard to ignore. To the best of our knowledge, many private companies remain firmly committed to traditional 9–5 schedules, often with full in-office expectations. While some employers have embraced flexibility in pockets, the broader culture has been slow to evolve. The result is a mismatch: a public sector cautiously moving forward and a private sector largely standing still.
The benefits of staggered working hours are well documented, but they are also deeply human. Flexibility allows people to manage their time more effectively, reduce stress and better balance professional and personal responsibilities. A parent who needs to collect a child from school at 3:30 p.m. should not have to choose between work punctuality and parental duty. An employee who performs best in the early morning should not be forced into peak-hour traffic simply because “that’s how it’s always been.”
There are institutional benefits as well. Extended service hours will see some agencies operating until 7:00 p.m.; this could mean greater access for citizens who cannot conduct business during traditional work hours. In theory, this could improve service delivery, reduce bottlenecks and enhance public satisfaction. Over time, it may even affect staff retention, particularly in roles where burnout and rigid schedules have long been the norm.
Of course, questions remain. Will staggered hours meaningfully ease peak-hour traffic? Will productivity gains materialize? Will citizens actually experience faster, better service? And will the policy be implemented equitably across ministries, departments and agencies? These answers will only come with time, data and honest evaluation.
Still, it is worth acknowledging progress when it appears. This policy represents a shift in mindset, one that recognizes that people are not infinitely elastic and that productivity does not require uniformity. It is a step toward a society that flexes around its people, rather than one where people are expected to bend, strain and break themselves to fit rigid systems.
There is further to go. True transformation will require broader cultural change, including within the private sector, and a willingness to reimagine how work fits into modern Jamaican life. For now, however, the government’s move deserves cautious optimism. It may not be the destination, but it is undeniably a step in the right direction. Will we feel relief from traffic congestion? That remains to be seen.
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Hon. Christopher Tufton (second left), is joined by (l-r) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Health Fund (NHF), Everton Anderson; CEO and Founder of Judah 1, Everett Aaron; and Chief Operating Officer at Kennedy International Logistics and Services, Christie Hutcherson, in displaying images of the medical dome, which will be erected on the grounds of the Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH) in Montego Bay, St. James, The occasion was a media briefing held at the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) Technical Office at the Freeport Business Centre in St. James on Saturday (Feb. 7).
Work has begun to prepare the grounds of Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH) in Montego Bay, St. James, for the installation of a state-of-the-art medical dome that will add 100 beds to the facility.
The 10,000-square-foot structure, designed to withstand a category 4 hurricane, is being donated through a partnership between the Jamaican Government and international non-governmental organisations Judah 1 and the Kennedy Quick Reaction Fund. The facility was first announced by Health and Wellness Minister Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton during a hospital tour on January 24.
In addition to beds, the dome will be equipped with X-ray machines, autoclaves, essential clinical equipment, and a range of medical supplies. It is expected to arrive by late February and will be positioned near the hospital’s Accident & Emergency department to ensure smooth patient care.
At a media briefing at the Western Regional Health Authority Technical Office on Saturday (Feb. 7), Dr. Tufton said the additional beds would significantly increase CRH’s capacity, providing critical breathing room while restoration work continues on the main hospital building following damage from Hurricane Melissa, which destroyed about 157 beds. To date, 75 beds have been restored, bringing the hospital to 259 beds—or roughly 75 per cent of its pre-hurricane capacity.
“So again, for the gift of the 100-bed dome and all the other equipment supporting that, the health team is absolutely thrilled,” Dr. Tufton said.
Judah 1 CEO and Founder Everett Aaron noted that the dome would help meet the hospital’s urgent needs while providing a durable solution for the community. Christie Hutcherson, Chief Operating Officer of Kennedy International Logistics and Services, which operates the Kennedy Quick Reaction Fund, said engineers from the University of Miami have been assisting with the interior design and layout.
Hutcherson added that the donation includes not only the dome but also mattresses, medications, and basic clinical tools. “We chose the harder path, not because it was easier but because it’s the right thing to do,” she said, emphasizing the long-term benefits for the Jamaican people.
