Carib Scope

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  • Realtors Association launches first NAR ‘GREEN Designation’ course in English-speaking Caribbean

    Realtors Association launches first NAR ‘GREEN Designation’ course in English-speaking Caribbean

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark initiative for sustainable development, Jamaica’s real estate sector has introduced the Caribbean’s first GREEN Designation program for property professionals. The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ), partnering with the U.S. National Association of Realtors (NAR), unveiled this certification framework during a high-level sustainability symposium at Terra Nova All Suite Hotel.

    The comprehensive two-day training course, launching in June, represents a strategic response to both climate vulnerabilities and rapid development trends. While open to all industry professionals, only licensed realtors will receive formal GREEN Designation accreditation upon completion. The curriculum has been specifically adapted for Jamaican contexts through RAJ’s collaboration with NAR, including the training of local instructors certified to deliver the localized content.

    RAJ President Gabrielle Gilpin-Hudson framed the initiative within both historical and forward-looking contexts: “This launch perfectly commemorates our 60th anniversary while establishing foundations for the next six decades. Jamaican realtors already maintain the world’s highest per-member concentration of Certified International Property Specialists, demonstrating our commitment to professional excellence.”

    The program’s introduction follows Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on western Jamaica, highlighting the urgent need for climate-resilient construction practices. The certification will equip professionals with expertise in energy-efficient development, sustainable construction standards, and environmental compliance protocols.

    Supplementary events will reinforce this sustainability focus throughout RAJ’s anniversary year, including an April tree-planting ceremony, the June certification course concluding with sustainable property tours, and an upcoming Green Financing Summit.

    Industry leaders emphasized multidimensional approaches during the panel discussion. University of Technology senior lecturer Dr. Rochelle Channer Miller noted evolving buyer behavior: “Modern purchasers increasingly employ AI tools and multi-generational perspectives in property decisions.”

    Jamaica Developers Association Chairman Dayton Wood stressed code enforcement fundamentals, while NEPA deputy CEO Gregory Bennett outlined critical considerations for site evaluation—from zoning policies to environmental sensitivity assessments.

    Financial dimensions received equal emphasis, with VM Building Society’s Latoya Williams declaring: “As longstanding homeownership advocates, we recognize our responsibility to normalize sustainability beyond premium status into standard practice through financing structures.”

    This integrated approach signals Jamaica’s commitment to embedding climate resilience throughout its development ecosystem, positioning environmental responsibility as both economic imperative and national priority.

  • Digicel expands retail and connectivity footprint with new store in Ocho Rios

    Digicel expands retail and connectivity footprint with new store in Ocho Rios

    JAMAICA’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS LANDSCAPE ENHANCED WITH STRATEGIC RETAIL EXPANSION

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Telecommunications provider Digicel has strategically augmented its retail network along Jamaica’s northern coastline through the inauguration of a new facility at Soni’s Plaza in Ocho Rios. This development significantly improves service accessibility for residents throughout St. Ann and neighboring districts, representing a calculated move to strengthen community engagement and digital inclusion.

    The newly established outlet complements Digicel’s comprehensive regional fiber optic infrastructure development, building upon previous collaborative ventures including the Underground Duct Sharing Agreement with Jamaica North-South Highway Company. These coordinated efforts substantially enhance network durability while accelerating the deployment of subterranean fiber connectivity throughout the region.

    Kristalle Chin, General Manager for Consumer – Mobile and Digicel+, emphasized during the opening ceremony that “This retail expansion embodies our sustained dedication to positioning Digicel within the communities we serve. We’re not merely opening stores but creating tangible opportunities for technological access and economic participation throughout St. Ann.”

    Executive Vision and Strategic Development

    According to company leadership, the Ocho Rios establishment forms part of an extensive organizational growth strategy, with multiple additional retail openings and facility enhancements scheduled throughout the current fiscal cycle. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by delivering advanced telecommunications services to both rural and urban populations.

    The launch coincides with Digicel’s approaching 25th anniversary celebrations in April, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing evolution of service delivery methodologies and community integration practices.

    Stephen Murad, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Jamaica, articulated the company’s dual-focused mission: “As we approach our silver anniversary, our primary objectives center on network reinforcement and strategic expansion. We’re committed to ensuring Jamaican communities develop enhanced connectivity and resilience, particularly crucial during post-hurricane reconstruction periods following events like Hurricane Melissa.”

    Community Impact and Economic Contribution

    Beyond technological infrastructure, Digicel’s investment generates substantial socioeconomic benefits through employment creation, both within the retail facility and through expanded field teams responsible for customer engagement throughout the region. This strategic move stimulates local economic activity while reaffirming the company’s foundational commitment to community empowerment through digital connectivity.

    The investment addresses diverse customer requirements across demographic segments – from students dependent on reliable internet access for education, to entrepreneurs building commercial enterprises through mobile platforms, and families maintaining inter-parish communications.

    Customers visiting the new Ocho Rios location will experience an immersive retail environment featuring exclusive promotional offerings, product demonstrations, and launch celebrations designed to introduce the complete spectrum of Digicel’s service capabilities.

  • Johnson Smith takes on multiple portfolios at WTO Ministerial Conference

    Johnson Smith takes on multiple portfolios at WTO Ministerial Conference

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — At the pivotal 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Jamaica’s Foreign Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith played a multidimensional leadership role, serving as conference vice-chair and minister-facilitator for e-commerce negotiations while simultaneously chairing the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Caucus.

    Senator Johnson Smith articulated Jamaica’s strategic positions on critical issues including WTO institutional reform, dispute settlement mechanisms, agricultural trade equity, and digital commerce frameworks. Her interventions emphasized the necessity of creating a more responsive and development-oriented multilateral trading system that accommodates the unique challenges faced by small vulnerable economies.

    In her capacity as negotiation facilitator, Johnson Smith worked to bridge divergent positions among member states, particularly regarding the contentious moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions and the future direction of the WTO’s E-Commerce Work Programme. These discussions revealed significant divisions between nations regarding digital trade governance, development implications, and policy flexibility for emerging economies.

    Regarding agricultural trade, Jamaica highlighted the urgent food security challenges confronting net food-importing developing countries, exacerbated by climate-related disruptions. The minister advocated for outcomes that address structural inequities in global agricultural markets and ensure fair trading conditions for developing nations.

    The Jamaican delegation, including Ambassador Dr. Richard Brown and Ambassador Esmond Reid, engaged in intensive negotiations aimed at achieving consensus-driven outcomes on complex trade issues that will shape the future of global commerce, particularly affecting developing nations’ participation in the digital economy.

    The conference outcomes are expected to significantly influence future digital trade regulations, with particular implications for developing countries seeking to expand their digital market access while protecting their development priorities. The MC14 gathering convened from March 26-29, bringing together trade ministers from across the WTO membership.

  • Mojo Morgan seeks to inspire with ‘Spirit’

    Mojo Morgan seeks to inspire with ‘Spirit’

    Grammy-winning artist Mojo Morgan has embarked on an inspirational journey across Jamaican schools with his newly launched Spirit School Tour, commencing March 27th. The initiative, derived from his profoundly personal single “Spirit,” aims to forge meaningful connections with young audiences through shared experiences of loss, resilience, and hope.

    The tour derives its name from Morgan’s latest musical release, a composition born from profound personal transformation. The artist revealed to Observer Online that “Spirit” emerged during a pivotal life chapter—meeting his fiancée while expecting twins—which enabled him to rediscover a song that previously held little significance. This emotional awakening triggered hours of cathartic release, bringing forth memories of departed family members including his father, uncles, and recently deceased brother, Peetah Morgan.

    Morgan’s adaptation of the originally Hillsong United-created piece transforms it into a vessel for his personal narrative. The song’s selection as the theme for Kingston City Run demonstrated its resonant message of endurance and perseverance, which Morgan describes as “confirmation that the message is reaching people in the way it’s supposed to.”

    The inaugural tour stop at Dunoon Park Technical High in East Kingston set the stage for subsequent engagements, including Bridgeport High in Portmore on March 30th. Each school visit features multifaceted programming: motivational discussions on overcoming adversity, insights from Morgan’s journey as artist-entrepreneur-father, live performances of “Spirit,” and collaborative student participation on stage.

    Morgan emphasizes the urgent need for such initiatives amid contemporary challenges facing Jamaican youth. “We’re living in a time where there’s a lot of violence, pressure, distraction, and uncertainty among young people,” he notes, explaining his deliberate choice to move beyond digital and radio platforms to establish direct, personal connections with students.

    The artist envisions the tour evolving into an expanding movement rather than a one-off initiative. While currently focused on high schools—deemed critical for identity formation—Morgan plans to extend the tour to churches, choirs, younger students, and broader communities, ultimately aspiring for international reach. “This is about impacting people at every level,” he asserts, believing that early encouragement of greatness within youth can enact real-time future transformation.

  • Spain and Catholic Church sign deal to compensate abuse victims

    Spain and Catholic Church sign deal to compensate abuse victims

    In a historic move addressing decades of institutional failure, the Spanish government and Catholic Church leadership formalized a groundbreaking agreement Monday to provide compensation for victims of clergy sexual abuse in cases beyond the statute of limitations. The accord establishes a collaborative framework between state and religious authorities ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s scheduled visit to Spain in June—marking the first papal visit to the nation since 2011.

    Justice Minister Felix Bolanos characterized the agreement as representing ‘a day of justice’ for thousands of abuse survivors who previously encountered institutional disbelief and neglect. The compensation mechanism will evaluate claims individually rather than applying standardized payout amounts, with final determination authority resting with the state through Spain’s ombudsman office. Financial responsibility for approved reparations falls exclusively to the Church.

    The settlement emerges amid intensified scrutiny of clerical abuse in Spain, where a traditionally Catholic society has undergone significant secularization. A comprehensive 2023 report by Spain’s ombudsman revealed staggering figures—over 200,000 minors experienced sexual abuse by Catholic clergy since 1940, with potential numbers reaching 400,000 when including laypersons in religious environments. These findings starkly contrast with the Church’s internal registry documenting just 1,057 reported cases and 358 deemed ‘credible’.

    Luis Arguello, president of the Spanish Episcopal Conference, described the agreement as demonstrating institutional accountability despite legal impediments. The Spanish model represents a significant departure from historically inconsistent global approaches to church abuse compensation, establishing state-supervised victim recognition where legal recourse has expired.

  • SHOT AT THE FUTURE

    SHOT AT THE FUTURE

    The financial stability and developmental trajectory of Jamaican football are poised on a knife’s edge as the national team prepares for its most consequential match in decades. On Tuesday, the Reggae Boyz will face DR Congo in a FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff final in Guadalajara, Mexico, with the victor claiming one of the tournament’s final berths.

    Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts has articulated the profound implications extending far beyond national pride. Qualification would mark Jamaica’s first World Cup appearance since 1998 and inject a minimum of US$10.5 million into the nation’s football infrastructure—funds described as critical for sustaining the sport’s development.

    Financial analysis reveals the staggering investment already made: over JMD$500 million expended during the qualification campaign, with nearly JMD$480 million allocated during the final CONCACAF qualifying round between September and November 2025. This substantial expenditure underscores the economic magnitude of Tuesday’s outcome.

    Ricketts emphasized the comprehensive benefits of qualification: “Every component of the sport would benefit from an injection of 10 or more million US dollars—from development, commercial, and administrative standpoints.” The president warned that failure to qualify would represent “a major disappointment” with repercussions across Jamaica’s football ecosystem.

    The financial context reveals a remarkable turnaround story. The JFF announced last year it was nearing elimination of debt that once exceeded JMD$400 million, achieving financial stability by April 2025 with the removal of its “going concern” status. This hard-won progress could be jeopardized without the World Cup windfall.

    With the federation overseeing more than 10 national teams across junior and senior categories plus numerous development programs, Ricketts noted qualification would provide “a shot in the arm” particularly for youth initiatives. “Once we are commercially viable,” he added, “the sky’s the limit.”

    Despite previous setbacks in automatic qualification, Ricketts expressed confidence in Jamaica’s technical staff and players, acknowledging the challenging path while maintaining optimism: “The ball is round and anything can happen on the day. We are hoping that the breaks will come our way.”

  • Redrose and Lindo call for compassion over wealth on new single

    Redrose and Lindo call for compassion over wealth on new single

    Veteran Jamaican reggae artists Anthony Redrose and Hopeton Lindo have reunited to deliver a powerful social commentary with their newly released collaborative single “Stop Put Money Over Life.” The track, which emerged on March 27, 2026, through Redrose’s Raggedy Joe label, serves as a poignant critique of contemporary materialism and greed-driven values.

    The collaboration marks the second creative partnership between the two musicians, following their well-received 2023 holiday release “A Different Christmas” from the “Feel It Christmas EP.” Their latest work carries a more urgent message, conceptualized as a societal wake-up call that emphasizes compassion and human connection over financial accumulation.

    Redrose elaborated on the song’s philosophical foundation, stating that the composition challenges the modern preoccupation with wealth acquisition. “The essence of our message transcends monetary pursuit,” he explained. “It centers on fundamental human interactions and the universal principle that kindness begets kindness.”

    The production boasts an impressive lineup of reggae royalty, featuring instrumental contributions from legendary drummer Sly Dunbar, keyboardist Handel Tucker, and saxophonist Dean Fraser. Their collective expertise elevates the track with rich musical layers and authentic roots reggae instrumentation.

    Both artists emerged from Kingston’s vibrant 1980s music scene, cultivating their skills through the city’s sound system culture. Their enduring professional relationship traces back to their formative years at King Tubby’s iconic Waterhouse studio, establishing a creative bond that has spanned decades.

    Redrose, celebrated for classics like “Under Mi Fat Ting” and “Tempo,” joins forces with Lindo, known for hit singles including “Territory” and “Silent Consent.” Their combined musical legacy brings substantial credibility to this contemporary social commentary, blending their distinctive vocal styles with a timeless message about prioritizing human values over economic gain.

  • Mojo Morgan launches Spirit

    Mojo Morgan launches Spirit

    Grammy Award-winning artist Mojo Morgan has transformed his latest single ‘Spirit’ into a nationwide inspirational movement, combining musical release with educational outreach across Jamaica. The artist has made the uplifting track available as a free global download while simultaneously launching the comprehensive ‘Spirit School Tour’ targeting high school students throughout the island nation.

    ‘Spirit’ represents more than musical expression—it embodies a profound message of perseverance, faith, and inner strength. The composition features powerful melodies and heartfelt lyrics designed to encourage listeners to remain grounded and focused despite life’s challenges. This personal project has evolved into a national campaign aimed at empowering youth, strengthening communities, and inspiring greatness among Jamaica’s next generation.

    The initiative officially commences at Dunoon Park Technical High School, serving as the inaugural stop in what promises to be an extensive nationwide effort. Each school visit will feature multifaceted programming including motivational discussions on resilience and purpose, personal reflections from Mojo’s journey as an artist, entrepreneur, and parent, live performances of the anthem, and interactive student participation with selected students joining the performer on stage.

    ‘This represents where genuine impact occurs,’ Mojo Morgan emphasized. ‘By reaching youth during their formative years and reminding them of their inherent greatness, we actively reshape the future in real time.’

    The song’s influence has already permeated Jamaican culture as the official theme for the Kingston City Run, the country’s premier fitness and community event. This partnership has established ‘Spirit’ as an anthem of endurance, unity, and national pride, with extensive exposure through race promotions, media coverage, and community engagement activities solidifying its status as both physical and spiritual motivation.

    In a strategic decision prioritizing accessibility over profit, Mojo Morgan is distributing ‘Spirit’ as a complimentary global download. ‘This transcends conventional music distribution,’ the artist explained. ”Spirit” represents my gift to the world—provided without cost but filled with energy, healing, and motivation.’

    This initiative reflects Mojo’s broader mission to leverage artistic platform for societal transformation. ‘While I identify as an artist, I also embrace roles as father, son, and visionary. My purpose extends beyond vocal inspiration to encompass how I live, what I build, and how I lead,’ Morgan shared.

    The movement gained formal recognition during a signing ceremony at Courtleigh Hotel & Suites in New Kingston, where Mojo Morgan was appointed as the first-ever musical ambassador for the Kingston City Run, simultaneously unveiling a specially produced trailer for the ‘Spirit’ single.

  • Women: Evolving from March onwards

    Women: Evolving from March onwards

    As the formal observance of Women’s Month concludes, its core mission transitions into a persistent, daily commitment. The momentum generated—amplifying diverse voices, honoring impactful stories, and acknowledging hard-won progress—transcends the calendar, forming the foundation of an enduring movement dedicated to achieving genuine equity, universal respect, and comprehensive empowerment.

    The true measure of this commitment lies in sustained action. It is championed through consistent support, active elevation, and the deliberate creation of space for women in every sphere of life, every day. Authentic representation is not a temporary initiative but a fundamental, ongoing pledge to parity.

    To translate this philosophy into practice, here are five actionable strategies to champion women’s representation throughout the entire year:

    1. **Patronize Women-Led Enterprises**: Intentionally direct your economic power by purchasing from, promoting, and endorsing businesses founded and operated by women entrepreneurs, both within your local community and in the digital marketplace.

    2. **Elevate Female Perspectives and Achievements**: Consistently use your platforms—be it social media channels, professional meetings, or personal networks—to share and celebrate the work, innovative ideas, and accomplishments of women.

    3. **Champion Equitable Systems**: Advocate vocally for structural fairness across all environments, including corporate workplaces, educational institutions, and local communities. This includes persistent advocacy for pay transparency and equality, support for women seeking leadership positions, and ensuring unbiased access to opportunities.

    4. **Foster Development Through Mentorship**: Provide tangible support by offering mentorship, encouragement, and critical resources to women and girls aspiring to advance their personal development and professional careers.

    5. **Commit to Continuous Education and Dialogue**: Proactively stay informed on evolving gender issues and engage in constructive conversations that confront unconscious biases and actively promote a more inclusive culture for everyone.

  • Deportation of Jamaican-born US army veteran inspires his attorney to run for Congress

    Deportation of Jamaican-born US army veteran inspires his attorney to run for Congress

    NEW YORK — The controversial deportation of U.S. Army veteran Godfrey Wade to Jamaica has catalyzed his attorney’s decision to pursue congressional office, transforming a legal battle into a political movement for immigration justice. Tony Kozycki, Wade’s legal representative, announced his campaign for Georgia’s 7th Congressional District in the 2026 mid-term elections following what he describes as systemic failures in Wade’s case.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) executed Wade’s deportation last month despite Kozycki’s extensive efforts to secure judicial review and congressional support for the honorably discharged veteran. The attorney’s congressional bid emerged after lawmakers declined to support a private bill drafted by Kozycki Law LLC that would have mandated judicial reconsideration of Wade’s case.

    ‘Godfrey’s case is the catalyst for my campaign,’ Kozycki stated. ‘Having worked closely with him and his family, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the system failed someone who served this nation honorably.’

    Wade, a 65-year-old legal resident since 1975, was deported based on a 2014 removal order originating from a bounced check and an assault charge. Critical court notices were allegedly sent to an incorrect address by Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE), preventing Wade from contesting the order. The check-related financial obligations were fully satisfied, and the assault charge involved no allegations of physical violence according to legal documentation.

    Kozycki emphasizes the case exemplifies broader systemic issues: ‘We merely sought judicial review—a fundamental right denied to someone who defended this country. With Wade deported, his appeal could take years while detained individuals receive priority.’

    The attorney, himself an Army veteran, will run as a Democratic candidate against incumbent Republican Representative Rich McCormick, whom he criticizes for insufficient action despite McCormick’s veteran status. Wade’s deportation has generated significant concern within Jamaican immigrant communities and advocacy groups.

    Carmeta Albarus of the Family Unification and Resettlement Initiative (FURI) condemned the action as ‘cruel,’ noting her organization facilitated Wade’s initial communication with his family upon arrival in Jamaica. The case has intensified scrutiny over citizenship requirements, with Kozycki observing that naturalization would have prevented deportation despite Wade’s legal residency status.

    Congressman David Scott (GA-13) had requested DHS delay Wade’s deportation pending appeal but received no response until four days after the veteran’s removal. Scott affirmed that Wade ‘served this country honorably and was entitled to due process,’ underscoring the constitutional concerns raised by this case.