Singer Chris Malachi is brimming with excitement as he prepares to take the stage at the pre-game show for tonight’s World Cup qualifying match between Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz and Curacao. Known for his uplifting track ‘Brighter Days,’ Malachi shared with the Jamaica Observer that the song serves as a heartfelt prayer for his fellow Jamaicans. ‘It’s a call for us to remain steadfast in faith during these challenging times,’ he explained, revealing that the song was penned just before a recent hurricane. ‘I wanted to create something that would resonate deeply with every Jamaican,’ he added. Malachi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to perform at such a historic event, reflecting on the rapid success of his song, which was released just weeks ago. ‘To think that this moment has come so quickly is truly a blessing,’ he said. While Malachi describes himself as a casual football fan, he acknowledged the sport’s unifying power and shared a memorable moment from the 2023 Concacaf Nations League, where Jamaica triumphed over Canada on their home turf. ‘That victory was a proud moment for us all,’ he recalled. Malachi, who wrote, produced, mixed, arranged, and mastered ‘Brighter Days,’ takes immense pride in the track, marking his first full creative control over a song. Released on November 2, the song has gained significant traction, aligning with Jamaica’s current cultural climate. ‘This match has the potential to bring joy and celebration to our nation during tough times,’ he said. Born in Stony Hill, St Andrew, Malachi’s musical journey began in the church, where he honed his skills as a vocalist and pianist. His family’s deep musical roots, including his father’s role as a choir director and his uncle’s dual identity as a bishop and singer, have profoundly influenced his career. Malachi’s passion for poetry and songwriting blossomed during high school, and his time at The University of The West Indies further enriched his musical versatility, spanning genres from jazz to roots-reggae. Tonight’s performance is not just a personal milestone but a moment of collective pride for Jamaica, as the nation rallies behind its team in their quest for World Cup qualification.
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Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee names 50-member team for Bolivarian Games
Trinidad and Tobago (TT) is set to make its inaugural appearance at the 2025 Bolivarian Games, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s sporting journey. The Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) has confirmed the participation of a 50-member delegation, including athletes, coaches, medical staff, and support personnel, in this prestigious multi-sport event. The Games, hosted in Ayacucho, Lima, Peru, will run from November 22 to December 7, 2025. TT’s delegation will compete in three disciplines: men’s and women’s cricket, cycling, and surfing, with a total of 32 athletes and 18 officials. Leading the team is seasoned chef de mission Lovie Santana-Duke, supported by administrative personnel Jariel Mc Collin and media officer Kira Alexander. Santana-Duke expressed pride in this historic moment, emphasizing the unity, discipline, and dedication of the delegation. TTOC President Diane Henderson highlighted the significance of this opportunity for athletes to gain international exposure, particularly the cricket teams aiming to qualify for the LA28 Olympics. The Bolivarian Games, established in 1938 by the Bolivarian Sports Organisation (ODEBO), honor the legacy of Simón Bolívar and foster unity and athletic excellence among South American nations. TT’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing sports development and international representation.
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Red Force captain Da Silva: We’re ready for Super50 Cup
Trinidad and Tobago Red Force captain Joshua Da Silva has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness as they gear up for their opening match in the CG United Super50 Cup against Barbados Royals. The highly anticipated clash is scheduled to take place at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St Augustine on November 19. Da Silva, who was confirmed as captain earlier this month, leads a 14-man squad that combines seasoned players with five newcomers making their debut in the Super50 unit. The team has been rigorously training at the National Cricket Centre in Couva, and Da Silva emphasized the positive mood within the camp, stating, “The mood in the camp is very good. We’ve been training really hard in Couva doing all our preparations. Everybody is ready.” He also highlighted the absence of injuries as a significant advantage heading into the tournament. The Red Force will be without several key players, including Akeal Hosein, Anderson Phillip, Amir Jangoo, Jayden Seales, and Khary Pierre, who are currently committed to West Indies duties. However, this opens the door for younger talents such as all-rounders Shatrughan Rambaran and Ricky Jaipaul, fast-bowler Abdul Raheem Toppin, right-hander Cephas Cooper, and leg-spinner Navin Bidaisee. Da Silva praised the newcomers for their strong performances in practice matches, noting that they have earned their spots through consistent effort. The Red Force, who clinched the Super50 Cup title in 2023, are determined to reclaim the crown after no champion was declared in the 2024 edition. Da Silva expressed his personal motivation, stating, “It would mean the world to me if I can capture the coveted crown for the national team, at home in Trinidad.” Head coach Rayad Emrit also voiced his support for Da Silva’s leadership, emphasizing his calm and proactive approach. The Red Force will look to start their campaign on a high note, aiming to avenge their semi-final loss to Barbados in the 2024 edition. The team will move into their tournament camp on November 18, following a light workout session. The 2025 Super50 Cup will feature matches across three venues in Trinidad, with the Red Force facing Barbados Royals at 9 am on November 19.
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Molino, Phillip say farewell to Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago’s football legends, midfielder and captain Kevin Molino and goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, are set to make their final appearances in national colors during the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Bermuda on November 18 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. The match, scheduled for 9 pm, marks the end of an era for two of the team’s most enduring figures. Molino, 35, and Phillip, 41, have been pivotal to the national squad for over 15 years, with Molino debuting in 2010 and Phillip in 2007. Molino confirmed his retirement after the November 13 qualifier against Jamaica, stating, ‘Looking back, it has been a hell of a road. I think it’s set up in a way that this might be my last game for TT.’ Coach Dwight Yorke praised Molino’s exceptional talent and leadership, expressing his hope that Molino could have captained the team at next year’s World Cup, as Yorke himself did in 2006. Yorke also highlighted Phillip’s contributions, urging fans to give both players a grand send-off. Additionally, Joevin Jones, who recently earned his 100th cap for Trinidad and Tobago, will be honored during the match, though he is not part of the squad for this game.
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South premier teams run riot in Intercol zonal ‘quarters’
In a spectacular display of skill and dominance, Naparima College delivered a crushing 15-0 victory over Rio Claro West in the Coca-Cola Intercol south zone quarter-finals on November 17. The match, held at Lewis Street in San Fernando, saw Ryan Radellant emerge as the star player, scoring five goals and leading his team to their biggest win of the season. Radellant opened the scoring in the fourth minute and continued his relentless performance with goals in the 32nd, 46th, 50th, and 66th minutes. His teammates Mikhael Bullock, Elijah Edwards, Jayden Caprietta, Darius Procope, Shabani Thompson, and Xarion France also contributed to the overwhelming scoreline, securing an 8-0 lead by halftime. The second half saw Seth Eve, Riquelme Phillips, France, and Procope adding to the tally, completing the historic victory. Meanwhile, defending champions St Benedict’s College advanced to the semi-finals with a 7-0 win over Siparia West, and Presentation College San Fernando triumphed 16-0 against Point Fortin Secondary. In the north zone, St George’s College edged Trinity East 4-3 on penalties, while Malick narrowly defeated Trinity Moka 1-0. Last year’s SSFL premiership winners Fatima also progressed with a 3-0 win over East Mucurapo. In a separate development, Signal Hill is expected to receive three points after St Augustine Secondary failed to show up for their rescheduled match, potentially shaking up the league standings as the season nears its climax.
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NGC chairman: Nutrien shut-down benefiting other Pt Lisas companies
The phased shutdown of Nutrien’s Trinidad facility, initiated in October due to disputes over port fees and unreliable natural gas supply, has unexpectedly benefited other companies on the Point Lisas Industrial Estate. Gerald Ramdeen, Chairman of the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC), revealed that the redistribution of gas previously allocated to Nutrien has enabled companies like Proman, Phoenix Park Gas Processors Ltd, and Methanex to exceed their daily production quotas. Ramdeen emphasized that this redistribution has significantly enhanced the output of nearly all plants on the estate, marking a positive shift in the industrial landscape. Additionally, NGC has increased its capacity to supply gas to Atlantic LNG, further bolstering the nation’s energy sector. In another development, the United States’ decision to remove a 15% tariff on ammonia and ammonia product exports has been hailed as a major win for Trinidad and Tobago. Ramdeen and Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal credited the government’s diplomatic efforts, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Foreign Minister Sean Sobers, for this favorable outcome. The tariff removal is expected to strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s position in the global fertiliser market and support global food security. However, former Prime Minister Stuart Young criticized the government, alleging that the Nutrien shutdown has damaged the country’s reputation and economy, while dismissing the tariff removal as a distraction.
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Murder victim’s family urges women to be ‘discerning’
The tragic death of 38-year-old Avanelle Abraham has left her family in shock and prompted them to issue a stark warning to women about the importance of vigilance and discernment in their daily lives. Abraham’s body was discovered on November 16 by residents of Maraj Street in Chaguanas, who heard a single gunshot and found her lying motionless with a gunshot wound to the left side of her head. A grey cushion was placed beneath her legs, and her cellphone and silver Kia Cerato were missing. Police reported that a silver car was seen speeding away from the scene shortly after the shooting occurred around 5:15 pm.
Abraham, described by her family as a cheerful and ambitious mother, was an interior decorator and had recently opened her own hair salon in Chaguanas. Despite being on extended leave from her job at Massy Motors due to a medical issue, she worked as a rideshare driver to support herself and her 16-year-old son. Her son, described as academically strong and reserved, was planning to surprise her with a visit the weekend she was killed. Relatives said the two shared an exceptionally close bond, often described as ‘best friends.’
Abraham’s family expressed disbelief at the circumstances of her death, noting her fearless personality and past actions, such as chasing an armed robber to retrieve her bag during a previous incident. They believe her murder was not a robbery but something more sinister, given her proximity to home and the way she was dressed. In their grief, they urged women to remain cautious and prayerful, emphasizing the need for awareness in today’s world.
Despite their sorrow, Abraham’s family remains hopeful for justice, trusting both the police and divine intervention. They have called on anyone with information about the silver car seen fleeing the scene to contact the Homicide Bureau or call 800-TIPS.
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CoP to illegal quarry operators: Beware the vengeance of Moko
Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has issued a stark warning to illegal quarry operators, emphasizing that those engaging in unlicensed aggregate processing and quarrying will face severe legal consequences. Speaking at the Police Training Academy in St James on November 17 during the passing-out parade of 126 new police officers, Guevarro drew a parallel between illegal quarrying and unlicensed firearm possession, stating, ‘If you do not have an FUL (firearms users’ licence), would you walk around with a firearm? No, because you will be charged with possession. Similarly, if you lack a licence for quarrying, you open yourselves to prosecution.’ He concluded with a stern admonition: ‘Do not break the law. Or the vengeance of Moko will fall on you.’
The commissioner’s remarks came in response to recent statements by the TT Aggregate Producers Alliance (TTALPA), whose members claimed they were ‘comfortable’ operating without formal licences following discussions with the Ministry of Energy. However, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander denied knowledge of any such talks, asserting, ‘If a conversation was held, it would trickle down from one ministry to another. I have not heard anything, so I stand with the commissioner on this.’
This issue has gained traction following the October arrest of quarry operator Danny Guerra and several others for unlawful aggregate processing. Guerra was later released on $50,000 bail. Earlier this month, quarry operators in Turure, Sangre Grande, staged protests, alleging unfair targeting by law enforcement while other prominent operators continue to function without licences. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between regulatory enforcement and the quarrying industry.
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CoP mum on police involvement in US military training
Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro remained tight-lipped regarding the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s (TTPS) involvement in joint training exercises with the US military’s 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit. Speaking at the passing-out parade for 126 new police officers at the Police Training Academy in St James on November 17, Guevarro emphasized the strategic nature of such collaborations, stating it would be unwise to disclose specific details publicly.
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Regrello, GI to receive keys to San Fernando
San Fernando is set to commemorate its 37th anniversary as a city on November 18 with a series of events highlighting its rich cultural heritage and civic achievements. The celebrations, under the patronage of Mayor Robert Parris, will include an interfaith service, the unveiling of public art, and a formal civic reception. Four distinguished individuals and an institution will be honored with the keys to the city for their contributions to culture, business, public service, and community legacy. The day will begin with an interfaith service at the Krishna Mandir, marking the first time in 37 years the service is held at a non-Christian place of worship. Mayor Parris emphasized the city’s multicultural identity, stating, ‘San Fernando is a multicultural society, and hosting the service at the mandir reflects the unique diversity that defines us.’ The unveiling of The First People’s Statue and a collection of promenade art by renowned artist Russell Banfield will follow, depicting the Harris Promenade across various eras. The celebrations will culminate with a civic reception at City Hall, where keys to the city will be presented to Joshua Regrello, Guinness World Record holder for the Longest Marathon Playing Steelpan; Imran ‘GI’ Beharry, a dominant force in Chutney Soca and Caribbean entertainment; Diane Seukeran, former San Fernando West MP and the first woman to lead the Energy Chamber; and JE Guide Funeral Home & Crematorium Ltd, an 80-year-old institution. Mayor Parris also highlighted the revitalization of Harris Promenade, achieved through volunteerism and business sponsorship, without any city funds. He addressed recent public debates over charitable groups feeding the homeless on the Promenade, clarifying that food distribution must follow an ordered structure to ensure public health and safety. Despite reduced budget allocations, Parris noted San Fernando’s progress in cultural, infrastructural, tourism, and educational development. Plans include operationalizing the transfer of San Fernando Hill to the City Corporation and attracting cruise ship passengers via the Water Taxi from Port of Spain. Parris also welcomed the restoration of the long-abandoned Supreme Court building on the Promenade and appealed for urgent assistance to restore the burnt-out San Fernando Police Station and the Carnegie Free Library. Reflecting on the city’s history and culture, Parris expressed pride in leading San Fernando at this moment of renewed volunteerism and civic pride, wishing all residents a happy City Day and City Month.