Carib Scope

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  • Israel to ban 37 aid groups operating in Gaza

    Israel to ban 37 aid groups operating in Gaza

    JERUSALEM (AFP)—A significant humanitarian confrontation is escalating as Israel prepares to implement a ban on 37 international aid organizations operating in Gaza, effective Thursday. The controversial measure requires organizations to submit comprehensive details about their Palestinian staff members—a demand that has drawn sharp criticism from United Nations officials and European Union leadership.

    The policy, which sets a midnight Wednesday deadline for compliance, has been defended by Israeli authorities as necessary for security purposes. Gilad Zwick, spokesman for the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, stated that the organizations had failed to meet new regulatory requirements over ten months. “They refuse to provide lists of their Palestinian employees because they know, just as we know, that some of them are involved in terrorism or linked to Hamas,” Zwick told AFP.

    Humanitarian groups including Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Norwegian Refugee Council, World Vision International, CARE, and Oxfam face operational suspension. These organizations warn that the ban will severely impact already insufficient food and medical shipments to Gaza’s 2.2 million residents, where 1.3 million people require urgent shelter support according to international assessments.

    The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk condemned the move as “outrageous,” while EU humanitarian chief Hadja Lahbib declared the NGO registration law “cannot be implemented in its current form.” UNRWA commissioner Philippe Lazzarini warned the policy sets a “dangerous precedent” that undermines fundamental humanitarian principles.

    Israel’s ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg, Idit Rosenzweig-Abu, reported that 104 organizations had filed under the new guidelines, with nine rejected and 37 failing to complete procedures. The Israeli government maintains the process is designed to prevent exploitation of aid by Hamas, which still controls parts of Gaza.

    The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire following October’s deadly conflict, with aid groups reporting only 100-300 daily aid trucks reaching Gaza despite agreements stipulating 600 trucks per day.

  • FLA, JCF issue warnings against gun salutes ahead of New Year

    FLA, JCF issue warnings against gun salutes ahead of New Year

    Jamaican law enforcement agencies have launched a coordinated campaign to combat the dangerous tradition of celebratory gunfire during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) and Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) jointly announced stringent measures targeting individuals who engage in the illegal practice of firing weapons into the air.

    In official statements released Wednesday, both organizations emphasized that discharging firearms celebratory constitutes a severe violation of Jamaica’s Firearms Act. The FLA specified that licensed firearm holders participating in such activities will face immediate revocation of their licenses, permanent disqualification from future firearm ownership, and potential criminal prosecution.

    The legal consequences for offenders are substantial, with penalties reaching up to three years imprisonment or fines exceeding $3 million Jamaican dollars. Authorities highlighted the grave public safety risks associated with falling bullets, which have historically caused injuries, property damage, and fatalities during holiday celebrations.

    Police representatives reinforced their zero-tolerance stance, vowing to prosecute all individuals involved in or facilitating celebratory gun salutes to the fullest extent of the law. The JCF emphasized that ballistic evidence collected from crime scenes will be used to trace weapons back to their owners, regardless of whether injuries occurred.

    Both agencies have established multiple reporting channels, urging citizens to immediately contact the 119 emergency number or their nearest police station to report incidents of illegal gunfire. The FLA additionally reminded licensed firearm owners of their continuous legal responsibility for proper weapon storage and usage throughout the holiday period.

  • Traffic changes announced for Black River fireworks festival

    Traffic changes announced for Black River fireworks festival

    Authorities in St Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica, have announced comprehensive traffic management measures to ensure public safety during the annual Black River fireworks festival scheduled for December 31st. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has confirmed the implementation of strategic road closures and alternative routing systems effective from 8:00 AM on Wednesday.

    The intersection of High Street and Exchange Drive, along with the High Street and School Street junction, will be completely restricted to vehicular traffic. These critical access points will be exclusively reserved for pedestrian movement and authorized personnel throughout the event duration.

    Traffic diversion protocols have been meticulously planned to maintain smooth vehicular flow. Motorists traveling through Exchange Drive will be redirected northward onto Lovers Lane, subsequently connecting to Central Road. Similarly, vehicles approaching via School Street will be channeled northward along School Street Drive before merging onto Central Road and Lovers Lane.

    The St Elizabeth Police Division has emphasized the importance of public cooperation with traffic management personnel. These temporary measures aim to balance public safety requirements with minimal disruption to local transportation networks during the festive celebrations. Authorities encourage attendees to plan their routes accordingly and allow additional travel time to accommodate the implemented diversions.

  • Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    Supreme Ventures announces intended strategic divestment of Evolve Loan Co

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant strategic realignment is underway in Jamaica’s financial sector as Supreme Ventures Limited has entered preliminary negotiations with Dolla Financial Services Limited concerning the divestiture of Evolve Loan Co’s loan portfolio and select digital assets.

    The proposed transaction, announced Wednesday, forms part of a deliberate capital optimization strategy designed to enhance balance sheet efficiency for Supreme Ventures. The move aims to reduce credit risk concentration while improving risk-adjusted returns, all while maintaining strategic exposure to the portfolio’s future performance.

    This divestiture will catalyze a fundamental operational transformation for Evolve Loan Co, shifting it toward an asset-light business model. The restructured entity will concentrate strategically on loan origination services, digital platform enablement, and developing fee-based revenue streams—a transition expected to boost capital returns while mitigating balance sheet vulnerabilities.

    For acquiring entity Dolla Financial Services, this acquisition represents a strategic expansion that significantly scales operations and fortifies its lending infrastructure. Company CEO Kenroy Kerr emphasized that the transaction “meaningfully expands our microcredit footprint and reinforces our commitment to inclusive financing,” anticipating substantial positive impact on the company’s loan book balance and growth trajectory.

    Supreme Ventures will maintain financial exposure to future value creation through retained 15% equity ownership in Dolla Financial Services Limited. Executive Chairman Gary Peart characterized the move as reflecting “disciplined capital allocation and a clear focus on shareholder value,” strengthening immediate financial positioning while preserving long-term upside potential through a more scalable operational structure.

    Final transaction details remain under negotiation pending regulatory approval from the Bank of Jamaica.

  • JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    JDF says alleged actions of soldier contrary to core values

    A member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is facing serious criminal charges following an incident involving the unauthorized discharge of a firearm in a public area on Christmas morning. Private Rushane Brown, a 30-year-old soldier from Comfort Hall, Manchester, was apprehended after allegedly firing shots into the air approximately at 5:15 am in St. Elizabeth.

    The incident came to light when an off-duty police officer witnessed the alleged firearm discharge and confronted the soldier. Following an investigation, Brown has been formally charged with multiple offenses including possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of ammunition, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public space.

    In an official statement released Wednesday, the Jamaica Defence Force expressed strong disapproval of the alleged actions, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts the organization’s core values and professional standards expected of all personnel. The military institution explicitly stated that it does not tolerate unlawful, reckless, or irresponsible conduct by any members, regardless of whether they are on or off duty.

    The JDF has committed to full cooperation with the Jamaica Constabulary Force to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation process. Military officials reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of discipline and accountability, while assuring the public that incidents of this nature receive the most serious attention and appropriate disciplinary measures.

  • Billionaire Lee-Chin weighs sale of NCBFG stake to settle debt, shares down 23% YTD

    Billionaire Lee-Chin weighs sale of NCBFG stake to settle debt, shares down 23% YTD

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent Jamaican-Canadian investor Michael Lee-Chin is evaluating the potential divestment of his controlling interest in National Commercial Bank Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) to address pressing debt obligations. This strategic consideration emerges as his Barbados-based company, AIC (Barbados) Limited, faces an immediate US$94 million bond payment, with total outstanding bond obligations amounting to US$297 million.

    In accordance with an agreement with noteholders, Lee-Chin has initiated a 45-day resolution period commencing December 31 to structure repayment of both principal and accrued interest. The process aims to facilitate orderly settlement arrangements for the due amount.

    “I’m conducting a comprehensive structural review of all available alternatives,” Lee-Chin stated during a telephone interview with Observer Online, while opting not to elaborate further. “All options remain under consideration, including full repayment, and I have allocated 45 days to reach a resolution.”

    An official release from his office outlined potential strategies, ranging from complete debt liquidation to addressing the current payment, with the partial or full disposal of his NCBFG shareholding identified as a viable pathway. Lee-Chin currently serves as chairman of the diversified financial services conglomerate.

    Any disposition would constitute a substantial block transaction. Recent NCBFG quarterly disclosures reveal AIC (Barbados) Limited maintained 46.24% ownership of the group’s issued shares as of September 30, 2025. Earlier regulatory filings dated March 31, 2025, indicated Lee-Chin and his affiliated entities collectively controlled 52.15% of NCBFG, with AIC (Barbados) specifically holding 46.74% at that time.

    The billionaire is collaborating with financial advisors and key stakeholders to determine “the most appropriate and sustainable course of action,” according to the statement. Lee-Chin expressed confidence that the undertaken measures would yield favorable outcomes while reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling all financial obligations.

    Market analysts anticipate a decision regarding the preferred approach within the forthcoming fortnight, substantially preceding the 45-day deadline. A transaction involving Lee-Chin’s substantial shareholding would represent a significant event for NCBFG’s market structure.

    The company’s shares have experienced downward pressure, concluding at J$39.05 on the Jamaica Stock Exchange with 3.35 million shares traded recently. At this valuation, Lee-Chin’s 52.15% stake—based on 2.58 billion issued shares—approximates J$52.6 billion (US$335 million), substantially exceeding the total bond debt. This current price reflects a considerable decline from historic peaks when shares reached an intraday high of J$249 and closed at J$219 in July 2019. Year-to-date, the stock has depreciated 23.16%.

    Lee-Chin established his fortune primarily through Portland Holdings Inc., his investment holding vehicle. His stewardship of NCBFG, which encompasses banking, insurance, and wealth management services across the Caribbean region, has constituted a foundational element of his business legacy.

    Additional developments will be communicated as appropriate.

  • No parking permitted on Palisadoes Road to view fireworks — police

    No parking permitted on Palisadoes Road to view fireworks — police

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement officials have issued a stringent parking prohibition along the critical Palisadoes thoroughfare in Kingston during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The comprehensive ban, specifically targeting Wednesday, December 31st, expressly forbids all vehicular parking for fireworks viewing purposes along this strategic roadway.

    Police authorities have clarified that absolutely no vehicles will receive authorization to park on the main roadway under any circumstances. The regulatory measures extend further to prohibit parking on the right-hand side of the road leading toward Norman Manley International Airport during a designated timeframe from 5:00 PM on Wednesday through 12:30 AM on Thursday.

    Motorists who disregard these officially mandated restrictions will face immediate legal consequences, including criminal prosecution and compulsory vehicle towing. The Jamaica Constabulary Force emphasizes that these measures constitute essential public safety protocols rather than mere traffic suggestions, designed to ensure uninterrupted emergency access and prevent potentially dangerous congestion during high-density holiday celebrations.

  • CDB providing grant funding for region’s cultural and creative industries

    CDB providing grant funding for region’s cultural and creative industries

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has announced a significant funding initiative of US$190,000 through its Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF) to support regional events and conferences. This strategic investment aims to enhance the growth and global competitiveness of the Caribbean’s cultural and creative sectors.

    Established in 2017, the CIIF program focuses on fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability within the creative industries across CDB’s 19 borrowing member countries. The current grant call targets events scheduled between March 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, that address critical development priorities for the region’s creative economy.

    Eligible activities must concentrate on policy dialogue facilitation, capacity building for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), sector data enhancement, market intelligence development, trade promotion, and cultural heritage preservation. The bank will award six grants ranging from US$20,000 to US$50,000 to qualified applicants.

    CIIF Coordinator Malene Joseph emphasized the initiative’s significance: ‘This grant call supports home-grown activities that unlock pathways for creative Caribbean talent and businesses. Beyond facilitating policy dialogue and building data-driven insights, CIIF enables creative MSMEs through targeted financial support.’

    Application eligibility requires formal registration as business support organizations, non-governmental organizations, universities, community-based organizations, or government agencies serving the creative sector. Applicants must demonstrate at least three years of experience in hosting industry events and provide co-financing covering minimum 10% of the total project budget. The submission deadline is January 31 of the upcoming year.

  • Jada Kingdom announces highly anticipated new EP

    Jada Kingdom announces highly anticipated new EP

    Jamaican recording artist Jada Kingdom has officially revealed plans to launch her newest extended play collection, titled ‘Just A Girl In A Money Man’s World,’ with a scheduled release date of January 21, 2026. This announcement arrives following an exceptionally productive year that has significantly elevated her standing within the global music landscape.

    The upcoming project promises to further demonstrate Kingdom’s distinctive artistic vision, which seamlessly merges contemporary dancehall rhythms with pop sensibilities and R&B influences. Her unique approach to music creation has established her as an innovative force while simultaneously preserving strong connections to her cultural roots.

    Throughout 2025, Kingdom maintained an extensive presence across multiple platforms, delivering several successful singles that captured audience attention worldwide. Her tracks ‘Can’t Tell Me That,’ ‘Only You,’ and particularly the viral phenomenon ‘GAD’ generated substantial momentum. The latter’s studio performance feature on On The Radar achieved viral status, accumulating over one million combined views on Instagram and TikTok within mere days of its release.

    Originally launched on March 21, 2025, ‘GAD’ achieved remarkable commercial performance throughout Jamaica and broader Caribbean markets. The single reached number three on Apple Music’s Top 25 Kingston Chart, representing the highest chart position secured by any female artist during that period. Additionally, it secured Top 5 placements on Shazam’s recognition platform across numerous countries, underscoring its widespread cultural resonance.

    Critical reception matched the commercial success, with Billboard applauding Kingdom’s innovative approach to local vernacular combined with feminist thematic elements, describing the work as ‘terrific.’ Stereogum characterized the production as both nostalgically evocative and progressively innovative, labeling it a ‘2000s pop revival.’ Further acclaim originated from respected publications including HNHH, Kaboom Mag, The Star, Caribbean National Weekly, and MusicxClusives.

    Kingdom’s international touring schedule throughout 2025 provided additional evidence of her expanding global influence. Her performance calendar included a commanding appearance at New York’s UBS Arena in May, followed by a London engagement during the Soak’d Pineapple x SANDZ Ultra Weekend in August. The year concluded with her headline performance at Vybz Kartel’s Freedom Street Europe concert event in Malta during September.

  • Junkanoo Grand Marshal fired following Boxing Day parade delays

    Junkanoo Grand Marshal fired following Boxing Day parade delays

    The National Junkanoo Committee (NJC) has publicly admitted to significant operational failures during the recent Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade, culminating in the removal of longtime Grand Marshal Dwight Rolle from his position. In an official statement responding to mounting criticism, the committee cited ‘operational performance and adherence to established parade management protocols’ as the basis for their decision, emphasizing that the move was not personal.

    The NJC acknowledged that spectators experienced considerable discomfort due to prolonged gaps along Bay Street, where empty seats disrupted the festive atmosphere. The committee revealed that instructions were issued to the parade management team to allow Fun Groups and B Groups to perform during delays, but claimed these directives were not implemented by Mr. Rolle.

    In response to circulating rumors, the NJC confirmed that penalty frameworks for rule violations remain active. Deputy Grand Marshal Vincent Johnson, assisted by Calvin Greene, will assume leadership responsibilities for the upcoming New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade.

    Mr. Rolle, who had served as Grand Marshal for six consecutive years, expressed surprise at his dismissal during what he believed was a routine planning meeting with NJC chairman Douglas Hanna. He maintained that his management approach prioritized strict adherence to rules and regulations rather than accommodating informal directives.

    ‘The role demands enforcement without favoritism,’ Rolle stated. ‘I operate by rules, regulations, and facts—not as a conventional team player when it compromises established procedures.’

    Rolle attributed many parade delays to the absence of enforceable penalties, noting that the NJC’s replacement of the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence eliminated disqualification as a consequence for rule violations. This gap, according to Rolle, enabled participating groups to act without accountability.

    Additional operational challenges emerged during the event, including the problematic implementation of digital costume scanning technology. scanners introduced over two hours into the parade malfunctioned and lacked clear operational guidelines, further complicating logistics.

    Rolle also highlighted organizational lapses such as incorrect group name displays on screens and dismissed concerns in the tally room. Despite these challenges, he emphasized his commitment to preserving Junkanoo culture and performing his duties under difficult circumstances that predated the Boxing Day event.