KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamalco, in collaboration with the HEART/NSTA Trust, has introduced a comprehensive heavy-duty equipment training programme at the Wembley Centre of Excellence. This initiative aims to equip residents from surrounding communities with essential skills in this specialized field, fostering both personal and professional growth. The programme’s launch attracted approximately 130 participants from Jamalco’s seven council areas, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for this opportunity. Scheduled to commence on Monday, September 29, the three-month course will integrate theoretical knowledge with practical training. The latter will be conducted in partnership with Jamalco’s contractors, ensuring trainees gain valuable hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Certified HEART/NSTA Trust instructors, alongside Jamalco’s Mobile Equipment Instructor, Nigel Braham, will lead the sessions using a blend of classroom instruction, online learning, and simulated environments. This approach is designed to build participants’ confidence and competence before they transition to live operations. During the launch event, Managing Director Marvin Jackson emphasized the transformative potential of the programme, urging participants to fully embrace the opportunity. He stated, ‘We view the communities around our operations not merely as neighbours but as partners in our journey. It is both our responsibility and privilege to invest in initiatives that empower individuals, strengthen families, and build capacity for the future.’ Jackson also stressed the importance of discipline, commitment, and a drive for excellence as key factors for success. Jamalco extended its gratitude to the HEART/NSTA Trust, community leaders, and other stakeholders for their support in bringing this initiative to fruition. The company reiterated its dedication to workforce development and its ongoing efforts to create stronger, more resilient communities through such impactful programmes.
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Konshens reflects on devastating loss of his brother Delus
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Renowned dancehall artist Konshens has opened up about the profound impact of his brother Delus’s tragic death in 2016, revealing that his life was effectively on pause for nearly a decade. During a heartfelt interview on Sims Soul Sessions, Konshens shared his journey of grief, self-reflection, and eventual acceptance. ‘You can’t spend the rest of your life wishing for what’s already gone. You have to move forward. You’ll never forget, but life must go on,’ he emphasized, urging others to cherish their loved ones and embrace the present.
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Police ramp up search for ‘Bloodstain’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has escalated its efforts to capture Courtney Ashley, alias ‘Bloodstain,’ the alleged leader of the Bottom Marverly Gang. Ashley, 40, is wanted for his involvement in multiple violent crimes, including murder and assault. His last known residence is Abby Close, Leas Flat, Red Hills in St Andrew.
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FOREX: $161.12 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the latest trading session on Thursday, September 25, the US dollar demonstrated a slight upward trend against the Jamaican dollar, closing at $161.12, an increase of eight cents, as reported by the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary. Concurrently, the Canadian dollar also saw a notable rise, ending the day at $117.65, up from its previous close of $115.52. In contrast, the British pound experienced a minor decline, settling at $216.08, down from $216. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of foreign exchange markets and the varying performance of major currencies against the Jamaican dollar. The Bank of Jamaica continues to monitor these trends closely, providing essential data for investors and policymakers.
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Trump warns of shutdown as White House threatens mass firings
President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Thursday, signaling the potential for a government shutdown as tensions escalate between the White House and congressional Democrats. The standoff centers on spending negotiations ahead of the September 30 fiscal deadline, after which critical federal services could face severe disruptions. Trump, in a candid remark from the Oval Office, accused Democrats of being ‘crazed’ and unprepared, further intensifying the political rift. The White House has escalated the confrontation by instructing government agencies to prepare for mass layoffs, a move that goes beyond the typical temporary furloughs during shutdowns. A memo from the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directed agencies to consider issuing Reduction in Force (RIF) notices to employees, adding to the strain on federal workers already impacted by earlier layoffs orchestrated by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Democrats have firmly rejected Republican proposals, demanding the reversal of certain spending cuts and the extension of healthcare subsidies. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries dismissed the layoff threats, urging the White House to ‘get lost’ and accusing OMB chief Russ Vought of being ‘out of control.’ A shutdown would halt non-essential government operations and leave hundreds of thousands of civil servants temporarily unpaid. The White House blamed Democrats for ‘insane demands,’ accusing them of disrupting a decade-long bipartisan tradition of avoiding shutdowns. With both chambers of Congress in recess and senators not returning until Monday, the day before the deadline, the window for reaching a resolution is rapidly closing. House Republicans have warned they will not return before the deadline, leaving the Senate to either accept their proposal or face a shutdown. The proposed bill, if passed, would only provide temporary funding through November 21. This latest impasse echoes the March shutdown, which was resolved at the eleventh hour after Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer backed a Republican-drafted proposal.
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Former FBI director charged as Trump steps up drive for revenge
In a significant escalation of his ongoing legal battles against political adversaries, former U.S. President Donald Trump has seen his long-time critic, former FBI Director James Comey, indicted on two criminal charges. The indictment, announced on Thursday, accuses Comey of making false statements and obstructing justice during his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and potential collusion with the Trump campaign. This development comes just days after Trump publicly urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to take action against Comey and other perceived enemies. Trump, who has repeatedly denounced Comey as ‘one of the worst human beings this Country has ever been exposed to,’ celebrated the indictment. Federal prosecutor Lindsey Halligan, a former personal lawyer to Trump with no prior prosecutorial experience, stated that Comey could face up to five years in prison if convicted. The charges have sparked controversy, with critics alleging that the move is part of a broader pattern of Trump using legal mechanisms to target political opponents. Current FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the ‘politicization of law enforcement’ during the Russiagate investigation, calling it a ‘disgraceful chapter in history.’ The indictment also follows a series of aggressive actions by Trump against critics, including the removal of security clearances from former officials and the withdrawal of federal funding from universities. This latest legal maneuver underscores the deepening political divisions in the U.S. and raises questions about the impartiality of the justice system under Trump’s influence.
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48-hour curfew imposed in Kingston Western
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Authorities have implemented a stringent 48-hour curfew across specific areas within the Kingston Western Police Division. The curfew commenced at 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 25, and is scheduled to conclude at 6:00 pm on Saturday, September 27. The designated boundaries encompass a significant portion of the region, stretching from the Kingston Harbour at Greenwich Farm Fishing Village to Ocean Boulevard near the Kingston Craft Market in the south. To the west, the curfew zone extends along an imaginary line from the Kingston Harbour through East Avenue and Maxfield Avenue, reaching the intersection of Rousseau Road. The northern boundary follows Rousseau Road from Maxfield Avenue to Lyndhurst Road, while the eastern perimeter traces Lyndhurst Road, Studio One Boulevard, Slipe Road, Orange Street, North Street, Princess Street, West Queens Street, West Street, Harbour Street, and Ocean Boulevard, ultimately returning to the Kingston Harbour. Residents within these boundaries are mandated to remain indoors during curfew hours unless granted explicit permission by the ground commander. This measure aims to enhance public safety and maintain order in the affected areas.
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Antigua and Barbuda Cultural Delegation Departs for World Expo 2025 in Japan
The Department of Culture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Creative Industries, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, has proudly announced the departure of a 10-member cultural delegation to represent the nation at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The delegation’s participation, scheduled from September 23rd to October 2nd, 2025, will culminate in the National Day Celebration on September 28th, where Antigua and Barbuda will present a vibrant cultural production titled “Wadadli, Wa’Omoni – The Pearls of the Caribbean.”
This dynamic performance, directed by renowned steelpan artist Khan Cordice and featuring award-winning vocalist King Tian Winter, alongside the Antigua and Barbuda Cultural Group, is a celebration of the nation’s rich heritage. The production weaves together African-inspired rhythms, the elegance of the Antiguan quadrille, and the festive energy of Carnival and Soca music. It offers a seamless cultural journey that highlights the resilience, creativity, and unique identity of the Caribbean nation.
The engagement underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and its mission to showcase its artistic excellence on the global stage. The Ministry of Creative Industries and its partners expressed gratitude to all supporters who continue to champion the nation’s cultural industries internationally. This participation not only promotes Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural legacy but also fosters a deeper appreciation of its contributions to the global arts community.
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VIDEO: PM Gaston Browne Announces Antigua and Barbuda to Host Global Eye Health Summit
In a compelling address at the United Nations Friends of Vision Side-Event, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Honourable Gaston Browne, underscored the urgent need for global action to address vision loss. Reflecting on the landmark 2021 resolution, ‘Vision for Everyone,’ co-sponsored by Bangladesh, Ireland, and Antigua and Barbuda, Browne highlighted the stark reality five years later: progress has been insufficient, leaving millions of children, workers, and elderly individuals grappling with preventable or treatable vision impairments. This crisis, he emphasized, is not only a human tragedy but also an economic one, with untapped potential costing the global economy billions annually. A recent study by the IAPB, Seva Foundation, and Fred Hollows Foundation revealed that investing in vision care could yield $447 billion in economic returns, create 22 million jobs, and provide 13 million additional school years for children. Browne announced Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to hosting the first-ever Global Summit on Eye Health in 2026, aiming to foster innovation, partnerships, and actionable strategies to restore sight and dignity worldwide. He called for decisive action, urging leaders to seize the opportunity to transform lives and economies.
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OECS territories roll out agreement for Citizen By Investment standardization and transparency
In a landmark move, the heads of government from the Eastern Caribbean States participating in Citizenship Investment Programs (CIP) have signed a comprehensive regulatory agreement. This agreement aims to enhance the integrity, transparency, and sustainability of their Citizenship by Investment (CIP) initiatives. The agreement establishes a regional supervisory authority to oversee and standardize CIP operations across five member nations: the Commonwealth of Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and St. Lucia.
The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) reported that this initiative results from extensive regional and international consultations involving key stakeholders from the CIP industry and global partners such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Commission. Over the past two years, these nations have engaged in dialogues to reaffirm the importance of CIP revenues in supporting the economic stability of small island economies.
Core elements of the reform include the creation of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) by October 2025, which will centralize supervision of all CIP activities. The reforms also introduce mandatory biometric data collection for new applicants and stricter residency criteria. Enhanced vetting processes will be supported by the CARICOM IMPACS Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC), with expanded personnel and technological capabilities financed through CIP revenues.
Transparency and responsibility will be bolstered through binding standards for national CBI/CIP units and licensed agents, annual compliance reports, and regional registers to track applicants and licensees. Enforcement measures include administrative fines and penalties for non-compliant entities, with potential license revocation for severe breaches.
A minimum investment threshold of US$200,000 has been established to maintain the credibility of CIP programs and ensure funding for infrastructure projects, climate resilience initiatives, and social development programs. The reform process has been driven by international dialogues, including US-Caribbean Roundtables and engagements with the UK, US, and European Commission.
International partners have recognized that dismantling CIP programs would severely impact small island developing states, which rely on these revenues for fiscal stability, climate resilience, and pandemic recovery. The involved governments are committed to ensuring their CIP initiatives meet the highest global standards of transparency and accountability. ‘These reforms demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding global security while preserving a legitimate development tool essential for their nations’ survival and prosperity,’ concluded the OECS release.