A concerning spike in syphilis infections among pregnant women has been revealed by Dr. Adesh Sirjusingh, a prominent obstetrician and gynaecologist, during a Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) event. The ceremony, held at the Health Ministry’s headquarters in Port of Spain on November 18, marked the handover of telehealth kits and computers to support efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of diseases. Dr. Sirjusingh highlighted that the number of cases has surged dramatically, with nearly 200 cases reported this year compared to the usual 30 to 40 cases annually. The ministry is now investigating the underlying causes of this resurgence and implementing strategies to enhance treatment and reduce transmission. Dr. Sirjusingh emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment with penicillin, which can effectively prevent complications if administered at least six weeks before delivery. He urged pregnant women to seek early antenatal care to ensure timely testing and treatment. Syphilis, often asymptomatic in women, can lead to severe outcomes such as miscarriage, foetal death, and long-term developmental issues in infants. While maternal HIV cases have declined due to robust healthcare programmes, the rise in syphilis cases, including among children, remains a pressing concern. PAHO initiatives are ongoing to validate progress in eliminating mother-to-child transmission, but the increasing number of detected cases underscores the need for heightened public health efforts.
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Breakaway causes traffic detour in north east Manchester
Authorities in Manchester, Jamaica, have issued a stern warning to the public regarding the Sedburgh main road near Christiana, following a hazardous breakaway that has compromised the safety of the area. The Manchester Police are urging motorists to exercise extreme vigilance when using this route and, where feasible, to opt for the Spring Ground main road as an alternative when traveling toward Spalding. The advisory comes in the wake of a harrowing incident on Tuesday, where a driver narrowly avoided severe injuries after his Suzuki vehicle overturned off the road due to the breakaway. The police emphasize the importance of adhering to safety measures and choosing safer routes until the issue is resolved.
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Society of St Vincent de Paul joins Hurricane Melissa relief efforts
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Jamaica has amplified its outreach initiatives to aid affected communities. This effort aligns with the organization’s enduring mission to assist the island’s most vulnerable populations. Founded in Paris, France, in 1833, the SVP is a global Catholic Christian non-profit operating in 153 countries. Its presence in Jamaica dates back to 1904, starting with the Trinity Conference at the Holy Trinity Cathedral under Bishop Charles Gordon. Today, the society boasts 33 active conferences across the island, each linked to a Catholic church. Members offer both spiritual and material support, including prayer, clothing, food, educational assistance, medication, transportation, and even burial services for those in need. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the SVP reaffirmed its dedication to providing physical and spiritual comfort to those suffering, particularly as many were left without food, shelter, or hope. Patrice Mitchell, President of the SVP Jamaica, highlighted the organization’s swift response, with members collaborating with parishes to assess needs and distribute aid. Relief efforts have already commenced in severely impacted areas, including Montego Bay and Falmouth. The society delivered 152 care packages to Montego Bay and supported relief initiatives at St Joseph’s Church in Falmouth. Additionally, 100 care packages were distributed between All Saints in Refuge and African Martyrs of Uganda in Falmouth, while 50 packages containing food and essentials were provided through Sacred Heart in Montego Bay. Clothing items for both children and adults were also distributed. The SVP prepared special care boxes for priests to share with affected individuals, containing toiletries, soap, shampoo, and other hygiene essentials. Members from the St Paul de Cross Conference were deployed to assess damage in Magoty and Black River, where significant destruction was reported. The society pledges to continue its support as assessments progress and needs evolve.
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Trinidad and Tobago signs MoU with UAE to accelerate digital future
In a significant move to bolster Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) digital future, Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, Dominic Smith, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The agreement, described as a ‘landmark step,’ was signed in Dubai during a series of negotiations and stakeholder engagements. This follows Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s meeting with UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York in September. The MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration on National Digital Transformation initiatives, leveraging the UAE’s globally acclaimed expertise in digital identity, border management, interoperability, and smart-government systems. The partnership aims to modernize public services, enhance technological infrastructure, and position TT as a leader in digital innovation. Minister Smith emphasized the ministry’s commitment to advancing digital transformation and AI integration, aligning with TT’s Official Policy Framework and the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025-2028. He highlighted that the initiative would accelerate national digital-transformation projects, foster technical cooperation with UAE government entities, and facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building. The partnership underscores TT’s ambition to harness the UAE’s leadership in digital governance, cloud infrastructure, and artificial intelligence. Accompanied by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Cory Belfon, Smith engaged in bilateral meetings with UAE counterparts and toured key facilities related to digital identity systems and national cloud infrastructure. Smith expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead, stating that the government is energized to advance TT’s national digital roadmap toward a smarter, more connected society. The partnership reinforces TT’s three-pillar Digital Transformation Agenda: citizen services, smart government, and future nation, paving the way for a more efficient, inclusive, and technology-driven nation.
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Judge rules construction at East Park Villas unlawful
In a landmark ruling, Justice Westmin James of the High Court has delivered a verdict against a couple involved in unauthorized construction works at East Park Villas, a townhouse development located on Maruana Road in Valsayn. The judgment, issued on November 17, prohibits the defendants from further construction or interference with the property or its common areas. Additionally, the court has mandated the removal of any unauthorized structures, restoration of the affected land, and clearance of all rubble and materials at the defendants’ expense.
The case was brought forward by East Park Villas Ltd and Charlievillage Service Station Company Ltd, who accused the defendants of breaching restrictive covenants outlined in the head lease. The claimants argued that the defendants had commenced construction without obtaining the necessary permissions from the lessor, the management company, or the Town and Country Planning Division. The unauthorized works, which began in September 2024, included the demolition of an existing annex and the initiation of new construction that extended beyond the original footprint, impacting adjacent properties.
Despite the defendants’ claims that the construction was remedial and aimed at addressing safety concerns, the court found their actions to be in violation of the lease and disruptive to the community. The defendants were also ordered to restore common areas and pathways within three months, with the claimants authorized to undertake the work and recover costs if the defendants fail to comply. Furthermore, the couple was ordered to pay nominal damages of $10,000 to East Park Villas Ltd and cover the claimants’ legal costs, assessed at $14,000 each.
The defendants, represented by attorneys Kent Samlal, Shirvan Ramdhanie, and Nadia Hassan-Mohammed, had argued that the works fell under an exception in the Town and Country Planning Act, being interior or non-material alterations. However, the court dismissed their counterclaim, emphasizing the importance of adhering to lease agreements and community standards.
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‘Technical Issues’ shut Licensing offices
In an unexpected turn of events, all licensing offices across Trinidad and Tobago have been temporarily shut down due to a significant technical malfunction. The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation announced this immediate suspension of services in a press release issued on November 18. The disruption stems from a critical system failure that has affected operations nationwide. The ministry has assured the public of its dedication to swiftly restoring services and has requested patience and understanding during this period. Earlier this year, Transport Commissioner Clive Clarke highlighted the scale of operations, noting that there are over 600,000 registered drivers and thousands of monthly transactions processed by the Licensing Division. The division handles approximately 8,000 certified copies and 3,000 license renewals each month. The ministry has promised to keep the public informed through official social media channels as updates become available.
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Fans asked to wear yellow for crucial World Cup qualifier
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the Reggae Boyz gear up for their pivotal World Cup qualifier against Curacao on Tuesday, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is rallying fans to turn the National Stadium into a vibrant sea of yellow, a color symbolizing hope and resilience. This call comes as the nation continues its recovery from the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa.
JFF President Michael Ricketts emphasized that Tuesday’s match transcends sport, representing a unifying moment for a nation in need of renewal. “This is not just about football. This is about who we are,” Ricketts stated. “When we come together, we create history both on and off the field. The gold in our flag represents the sun, strength, and the promise of a new dawn. By wearing yellow, we send a message to the world that Jamaica will rise again, stronger and full of hope.”
The JFF highlighted that the theme of “rising again” has gained profound significance as Jamaicans support one another in the aftermath of the hurricane. The federation drew parallels to the emotional unity felt during the iconic 1998 Road to France campaign, a historic moment that remains etched in the nation’s memory.
This upcoming match, however, carries unique weight. “Football is playing a vital role in restoring confidence, uplifting communities, and reigniting a sense of possibility across the island,” the JFF noted. The Reggae Boyz, through their determination and resilience, have become emblematic of Jamaica’s ability to overcome adversity.
“The Reggae Boyz embody the strength and spirit of our people,” Ricketts added. “Through football, we remind ourselves that no matter the challenges, Jamaica will always find a way to rise again.”
Beyond the match, the JFF continues to collaborate with local sponsors, international partners, and humanitarian agencies to ensure sustained recovery efforts long after the final whistle blows.
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Maxi Priest, Carroll Thompson for Hurricane Melissa Fundraiser Concert
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica faces immense challenges as it rebuilds. Recognizing the need for global solidarity, two titans of the UK reggae scene, Orlando Gittens and Peter Hunnigale, are spearheading a remarkable initiative to harness the power of music for humanitarian aid. The Giants of Lovers Rock JA Fundraiser Concert, scheduled for December 18, 2025, at Indigo at The O2 in Greenwich, London, promises to be a night of unity, love, and resilience.
The concert will feature an impressive lineup of reggae and Lovers Rock legends, including Maxi Priest, Carroll Thompson, Sandra Cross, Janet Kay, and Aswad. This event is not just a celebration of music but a mission to support Jamaica’s recovery. All proceeds will be directed to Food for the Poor Jamaica, an organization dedicated to aiding those most affected by the hurricane.
Keith Ferguson, CEO of Ace Connection Ltd and a proud partner of the initiative, emphasized the significance of this effort. ‘Jamaica’s music has been a source of joy and comfort for the world for decades,’ he said. ‘Now, it’s our turn to give back. This concert is a testament to the unbreakable bond between Jamaica and the global community.’
Orlando Gittens, a cultural bridge-builder and owner of Musical Therapy Entertainment Ltd, has been a driving force behind the UK’s Black music scene. His creation, The O2 Giants of Lovers Rock, has become the world’s largest and longest-running Lovers Rock event. Gittens’ commitment to fostering unity through music is evident in his words: ‘We are all brothers, we are all African. Jamaica’s pain is our pain.’
Peter Hunnigale, affectionately known as Mr Honey Vibes, brings his soulful Lovers Rock and conscious roots style to the stage. With a career spanning decades, Hunnigale has become a symbol of musical excellence and cultural pride. Together, Gittens and Hunnigale are transforming music into a powerful tool for healing and hope.
The concert, with tickets priced at £20 (standing), £30 (balcony), and £40 (King’s Row), is designed to be inclusive, inviting everyone from the diaspora to global music enthusiasts to join this meaningful cause. Doors open at 6 PM, with performances beginning at 7 PM. This event is more than entertainment—it’s a heartfelt gesture of solidarity and love.
Tickets are available via Partyace.com and AXS.com. For further details, call 0044 7877 799 455. Every ticket purchased and every act of support contributes to rebuilding hope in Jamaica, proving that in the rhythm of Lovers Rock, love always leads the way.
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US lawmakers set for explosive vote on Epstein files
In a significant political development, the US House of Representatives is set to vote on Tuesday for the release of government records related to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender whose case has sparked widespread controversy. This move comes despite initial resistance from President Donald Trump, who had sought to suppress the documents. However, mounting pressure from within his own party has forced a reversal of his stance. The Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the publication of unclassified documents detailing the investigation into Epstein’s operations and his 2019 death in custody, is expected to pass, potentially unanimously. Lawmakers argue that the public deserves transparency in a case involving over 1,000 alleged victims. Trump has claimed the files will expose powerful Democrats’ ties to Epstein, but his own long-standing friendship with the financier has drawn scrutiny. While the House vote appears decisive, the Justice Department retains the authority to withhold information if it jeopardizes an active investigation. The saga has revealed rare divisions within the Republican Party, with some members defying Trump to push for the release. Epstein survivors have expressed skepticism about the president’s motives, emphasizing the need for accountability. The case continues to cast a shadow over Washington, with potential revelations likely to fuel further political and public debate.
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Jamaica Flour Mills provides support to communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to aid communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica Flour Mills, a subsidiary of the global food processing and commodities giant ADM, has pledged a generous donation of US$100,000 to the Food for the Poor Jamaica Hurricane Relief Fund. This contribution is facilitated through ADM Cares, the company’s corporate social investment initiative, which focuses on addressing critical needs in communities where ADM operates. The funds will primarily be allocated to provide essential food supplies to the hardest-hit regions, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive immediate assistance. Additionally, the initiative aims to streamline the distribution of flour produced by Jamaica Flour Mills to areas most affected by the disaster. ADM Cares is renowned for its commitment to fostering sustainable and resilient communities by leveraging financial resources, volunteer efforts, and industry expertise to drive impactful social, economic, and environmental progress worldwide. This donation underscores ADM’s dedication to supporting disaster relief and strengthening the regions it serves.